bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DECM: A Discrete Element for Multiscale Modeling of Composite Materials Using the Cell Method
Authors: Ferretti Elena
Published: February 2020

This paper presents a new numerical method for multiscale modeling of composite materials. The new numerical model, called DECM, consists in a DEM (Discrete Element Method) approach of the Cell Method (CM) and combines the main features of both the DEM and the CM. In particular, it offers the same degree of detail as the CM, on the microscale, and manages the discrete elements individually such as the DEM—allowing finite displacements and rotations—on the macroscale. Moreover, the DECM is able to activate crack propagation until complete detachment and automatically recognizes new contacts. Unlike other DEM approaches for modeling failure mechanisms in continuous media, the DECM does not require prior knowledge of the failure position. Furthermore, the DECM solves the problems in the space domain directly. Therefore, it does not require any dynamic relaxation techniques to obtain the static solution. For the sake of example, the paper shows the results offered by the DECM for axial and shear loading of a composite two-dimensional domain with periodic round inclusions. The paper also offers some insights into how the inclusions modify the stress field in composite continua.
Mechanisms of Change: Unraveling the Roles of Modularity and Pleiotropy in Diversification
Authors: Lewis James J. , Van Belleghem Steven M.
Published: February 2020

Developmental modularity has long been viewed as a hierarchical organization that facilitates evolution over macro-evolutionary time through modification or co-option of preexisting modules. More recently, developmental modularity has been proposed as a micro-evolutionary mechanism capable of driving rapid evolution of novel color pattern phenotypes between closely related taxa. In this scenario, swapping allelic variants of modular cis-regulatory elements (CREs) via recombination generates novel phenotypes by shuffling preexisting color pattern modules into new arrangements. Recent evidence from Drosophila and butterflies, however, provides a series of examples in which pleiotropic CREs function in multiple developmental contexts. The potential prevalence of pleiotropy in CRE function is a major barrier to the proposed evolutionary role of CRE modules and encourages us to reconsider the relative importance of modularity for microevolutionary change. Here we first review the case for the apparent frequent exchange of modular color pattern phenotypes as a mechanism facilitating diversification. We then contrast this with recent evidence of CRE pleiotropy and argue that exchange of CRE modules should not be the default assumption, even when phenotypes look modular. Finally, we review experimental data on Heliconius butterfly wing patterns—which appear modular—and introduce the concept of evolutionary modularity as an alternative to developmental modularity. Evolutionary modularity reconciles the appearance of modularity in comparative genomic studies of Heliconius color patterns with experimental data supporting a non-modular architecture. We propose that evolutionary modularity provides a potentially important pathway for exchange of phenotypic elements between hybridizing taxa independent of the underlying developmental architecture.
Investigating the Gut Microbiota Composition of Individuals with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Association with Symptoms
Authors: Szopinska-Tokov Joanna , Dam Sarita , Naaijen Jilly , Konstanti Prokopis , Rommelse Nanda , Belzer Clara , Buitelaar Jan , Franke Barbara , Aarts Esther , Arias Vasquez Alejandro
Published: February 2020

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder. Given the growing evidence of gut microbiota being involved in psychiatric (including neurodevelopmental) disorders, we aimed to identify differences in gut microbiota composition between participants with ADHD and controls and to investigate the role of the microbiota in inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity. Fecal samples were collected from 107 participants (NADHD=42; Ncontrols=50; NsubthreholdADHD=15; range age: 13-29 years). The relative quantification of bacterial taxa was done using 16S ribosomal RNA gene amplicon sequencing. Beta-diversity revealed significant differences in bacterial composition between participants with ADHD and healthy controls, which was also significant for inattention, but showing a trend in case of hyperactivity/impulsivity only. Ten genera showed nominal differences (P < 0.05) between both groups, of which seven genera were tested for their association with ADHD symptom scores (adjusting for age, sex, body mass index, time delay between feces collection and symptoms assessment, medication use and family relatedness). Our results show that variation of a genus from the Ruminococcaceae family (Ruminococcaceae_UCG_004) is associated (after multiple testing correction) with inattention symptoms, and suggest a role of gut microbiota in ADHD pathophysiology.
Insulin Resistance in Diabetes: The Promise of Using Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Technology
Authors: Elsayed Ahmed , Vimalraj Selvaraj , Nandakumar Manjula , Abdelalim Essam
Published: February 2020

In this review, we discuss the insulin resistance (IR) and its development in the insulin target tissues that leads to diabetes. Also, we highlight the use of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to understand the mechanisms underlying the development of IR. IR is associated with several metabolic disorders, including type 2 diabetes (T2D). The development of IR in insulin target tissues involves genetic and acquired factors. Persons at genetic risk for T2D tend to develop IR several years before glucose intolerance. Although there are currently several mouse models for both IR and T2D that had provided a lot of information about the disease, these models cannot recapitulate all the aspects of this complex disease as seen in each individual. Patient-specific iPSCs can overcome the hurdles faced with the classical mouse models for studying IR. iPSC technology can generate cells genetically identical to IR individuals, which can help in distinguishing between genetic and acquired defects in insulin sensitivity. Combining the technologies of the genome editing and iPSCs may provide important information about the inherited factors underlying the development of different forms of IR. Further studies are required to fill the gaps in understanding the pathogenesis of IR and diabetes.
Proteomics Computational Analyses Suggest That the Envelope Glycoproteins of Segmented Flavi-Like Jingmen Group Viruses Are Class II Viral Fusion Proteins (β-Penetrenes) with Mucin-Like Domains
Authors: Garry Courtney E. , Garry Robert F.
Published: February 2020

Jingmen viruses are newly described segmented flavi-like viruses that have a worldwide distribution in ticks and have been associated with febrile illnesses in humans. Computational analyses were used to predict that Jingmen flavi-like virus glycoproteins have structural features of class II viral fusion proteins, including an ectodomain consisting of beta-sheets and short alpha-helices, a fusion peptide with interfacial hydrophobicity and a three domain architecture. Jingmen flavi-like virus glycoproteins have a sequence enriched in serine, threonine and proline at the amino terminus, which is a feature of mucin-like domains. Several of the serines and threonines are predicted be modified by the addition of O-linked glycans. Some of the glycoproteins are predicted to have an additional mucin-like domain located prior to the transmembrane anchor, whereas others are predicted to have a stem consisting of two alpha-helices. The flavivirus envelope protein and Jingmen flavi-virus glycoproteins may have diverged from a common class II precursor glycoprotein with a mucin-like domain or domains acquired after divergence.
Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors Mitigates Glycemic Variability in Metformin based Multiple Daily injected Type 2 Diabetes, a Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Yoshikawa Fukumi , Uchino Hiroshi , Nagashima Tomoko , Usui Shuki , Miyagi Masahiko , Ando Yasuyo , Kumashiro Naoki , Hirose Takahisa
Published: February 2020

To cope the high glycemic variability (GV) is crucial in the management of multiple daily insulin (MDI) in diabetes. We compared the effect of low dose metformin 750mg/d adding vildagliptin 100mg/d (DPP4+LMET) or the high dose metformin 1500mg/d (HMET), in type 2 diabetes (T2D) with MDI, evaluating GV by continuous glucose monitoring (CGM). Single center, open-label, 12 weeks - 2 period crossover design. Twenty T2D with inadequately controlled (7.0% <HbA1c ≦9.0%) with MDI + LMET were enrolled. Primary endpoints were GV and hypoglycemia derived from CGM performed after each 12 weeks treatment periods. There was no significant difference in HbA1c, body weight changes, total daily dose of insulin. DPP4+LMET compared to the HMET, significantly reduced the calculated GV value, mean (7.15±1.3 vs 7.82±1.6, p<0.05), standard deviation (1.78±0.55 vs 2.27±1.11, p=0.03), continuous overlapping net glycemic action (6.44±1.28 vs 7.12±1.69, p<0.05), J-Index (26.7±11.0 vs 34.9±19.8, p<0.05), high blood glucose index (3.01±1.96 vs. 6.73±4.85, p=0.02), and mean amplitude of glycemic excursions (4.53±1.35 vs 5.50±2.34, p=0.03). The GV metrics with hypoglycemia and nocturnal hypoglycemia were not significantly different. DPP4+LMET decreased GV associated with hyperglycemia. Adding DPP4 inhibitor to the lower dose of metformin is an alternative approach to the stable GV in MDI.
Some Applications of Clifford Algebra in Geometry
Authors: Gu Ying-Qiu
Published: February 2020

In this paper, we provide some enlightening examples of the application of Clifford algebra in geometry, which show the concise representation, simple calculation and profound insight of this algebra. The definition of Clifford algebra implies geometric concepts such as vector, length, angle, area and volume, and unifies the calculus of scalar, spinor, vector and tensor, so that it is able to naturally describe all variables and calculus in geometry and physics. Clifford algebra unifies and generalizes real number, complex, quaternion and vector algebra, converts complicated relations and operations into intuitive matrix algebra independent of coordinate systems. By localizing the basis or frame of space-time and introducing differential and connection operators, Clifford algebra also contains Riemann geometry. Clifford algebra provides a unified, standard, elegant and open language and tools for numerous complicated mathematical and physical theories. Clifford algebra calculus is an arithmetic-like operation that can be well understood by everyone. This feature is very useful for teaching purposes, and popularizing Clifford algebra in high schools and universities will greatly improve the efficiency of students to learn fundamental knowledge of mathematics and physics. So Clifford algebra can be expected to complete a new big synthesis of scientific knowledge.
Spatial Expression Pattern of the Major Ca2+-buffer Proteins in the Mouse Retinal Ganglion Cells
Authors: Kovács-Öller Tamás , Szarka Gergely , Tengölics Ádám J , Ganczer Alma , Balogh Boglárka , Szabó-Meleg Edina , Nyitrai Miklós , Völgyi Béla
Published: February 2020

The most prevalent Ca2+-buffer proteins (CaBPs: parvalbumin—PV; calbindin—CaB; calretinin—CaR) are widely expressed by various neurons throughout the brain, including the retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Even though their retinal expression has been extensively studied, a coherent assessment of topographical variations is missing. To examine this, we performed immunohistochemistry (IHC) in the mouse retina. We found variability in the expression levels and cell numbers for CaR, with stronger and more numerous labels in the dorso-central area. CaBP+ cells contributed to RGCs with all soma sizes, indicating heterogeneity. We separated 4-9 RGC clusters in each area based on expression levels and soma sizes. Besides the overall high variety in cluster number and size, the peripheral half of the temporal retina showed the greatest cluster number, indicating a better separation of RGC subtypes there. Multiple labels showed that 39% of the RGCs showed positivity for a single CaBP, 30% expressed two CaBPs, 25% showed no CaBP expression and 6% expressed all three proteins. Finally, we observed an inverse relation between CaB and CaR expression levels in CaB/CaR dually- and CaB/CaR/PV triple labeled RGCs, suggesting a mutual complementary function.
The Reuse of Public Datasets in the Life Sciences: Potential Risks and Rewards
Authors: Frey Katharina , Hafner Alenka , Pucker Boas
Published: February 2020

The 'big data revolution' has enabled novel types of analyses in the life sciences, facilitated by public sharing and reuse of datasets. Here, we review the prodigious potential of reusing publicly available datasets and the challenges, limitations and risks associated with it. Due to the prominence, abundance and wide distribution of sequencing results, we focus on the reuse of publicly available sequence datasets. Through selected examples of successful reuse of different data (genome, transcriptome, proteome, metabolome, phenotype and ecosystem), with their respective limitations and risks, we illustrate the enormous potential of the practice. A checklist to determine the reuse value and potential of particular dataset is also provided.
Clinical Reports on Early Diagnosis of Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) Pneumonia in Stealth Infected Patients
Authors: Zhou Yang , Yang Le , Han Ming , Huang Mingqiang , Sun Xuedong , Zhen Weidong , Xu Junqing , Wang Jinhong , Han Wei
Published: February 2020

An outbreak of novel coronavirus(2019-nCoV) that began in Wuhan, China, is rapidly spreading to all over China, and gradually to multiple countries. Regarding to put the epidemic prevention and spread under the control, early identification and diagnosis play a critical role. Patients with initially no or mild symptoms of Novel Coronavirus Pneumonia (2019-nCoV), namely “stealth” infection, often lack of typical clinical evidence to establish the diagnosis. Based on the clinical analysis of 4 cases in stealth infection, the results of this study highlight that early diagnosis requires a combination of epidemiological history, clinical manifestations, early chest CT examination, and 2019-nCoV RNA test (nucleic acid test), with particular emphasis on definite epidemiological history and early chest CT findings when positive nucleic acid tests lag behind.
Analisis Kegiatan Public Relation Untuk Membangun Brand Awerness di PT Victory International Futures
Authors: Lailiyah Nur
Published: February 2020

Perusahaan yang bergerak dalam bidang investasi pada produk indeks futures, forex dan logam mulia saat ini sangat banyak sekali macamnya,sehingga dalam kondisi yang seperti ini mengakibatkan banyak persaingan diantara perusahaan-perusahaan, mereka menciptakan brand yang kuat agar bisa dikenal secara luas di masyrakat. Dlam hal tersebut maka Public Relatioan memiliki peran yang sangat penting bagi perusahaan untuk meningkatkan Brand Awarness. Fokus pada penelitian ini yaitu Peran kegiatan Public Relation dalam meningkatkan kesadaran mereka di PT. Victoria International Future. Metode penelitian ini adalah dengan pendekatan kualitatif. Kegiatan Public Relation  dapat meningkatkan Brand Awarness bagi perusahaan dan memiliki pengaruh yang positif yang dapat menguntungkan perusahaan. PT Victoria International Futures  mampu memberikan pelayan-pelayanan yang baik bagi customernya mapupun masyarakat yang belum menjadi customernya dan selalu membangun hubungan baik dengan mereka, sehingga menjadikannya perusahaan yang unggul
Program Ladit (Lapak Digital) : Optimalisasi Media Digital sebagai Wadah dalam Pengembangan Umkm di Madura
Authors: Purnomo Fajrin
Published: February 2020

Usaha Mikro, Kecil dan Menengah (UMKM) memiliki peran penting dalam sektor ekonomi pada umumnya untuk masyarakat, proses pemerataan dan peningkatan pendapatan masyarakat, mendorong pertumbuhan ekonomi, dan mewujudkan stabilitas nasional. Madura adalah salah satu daerah di Provinsi Jawa Timur yang perekonomiannya didukung oleh sektor UMKM. Namun, selain banyak kontribusi UMKM untuk pembangunan ekonomi, UMKM memiliki masalah, yaitu: Kesulitan dalam mengakses modal, Kesulitan dalam pemasaran, dan informasi asimetris. Jadi perlu mengembangkan potensi UMKM melalui program yang efektif. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk membuat konsep dalam bentuk program yang efektif yang bertujuan untuk memudahkan pengusaha UMKM untuk mendapatkan modal sementara dan akses pemasaran yang lebih luas. Penelitian ini memiliki tinjauan literatur: Pemasaran, Pemasaran Digital, dan UKM. Sedangkan metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah pendekatan deskriptif kualitatif. Lokasi penelitian: daerah Madura. Jenis data adalah data sekunder. Metode pengumpulan data menggunakan perpustakaan penelitian atau kumpulan bahan yang diambil dari perpustakaan penelitian yang terkait dengan metode penelitian dan analisis data menggunakan reduksi data. Bentuk Program LADIT (Lapak Digital) adalah aplikasi LADIT, ladit education center, Pelatihan, dan Pendampingan. Dari konsep program tersebut, diharapkan dapat memberikan kemudahan dan mendorong kemandirian UMKM di Pulau Madura, serta pihak-pihak terkait.
Pengaruh Citra Merek, Harga Dan Kualitas Produk Terhadap Keputusan Pembelian (Studi Kasus Pada Konsumen Mie Endess Di Bangkalan)
Authors: Amalia Nur
Published: February 2020

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh citra merek dan harga terhadap proses keputusan pembelian mie endess yang terletak di JL. HOS. Cokroaminoto No. 72, Rw.05, Pangeranan, Kec.Bangkalan, Kabupaten Bangkalan, Jawa Timur 69115. Sedangkan metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah pendekatan deskriptif kualitatif. Jenis data adalah data sekunder. Metode pengumpulan data menggunakan perpustakaan penelitian atau pengumpulan bahan yang diambil dari penelitian terkait perpustakaan penelitian dan metode analisis data menggunakan reduksi data. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukan bahwa: Citar merek terhadap keputusan pembelian  mie endess berpengaruh signifikan, harga terhadap keputusan pembelian mie endess berpengaruh signifikan.
Identificación de atracciones urbanas centrales mediante seguimiento GPS y análisis de redes
Authors: Aranburu Amiano Ibon , Plaza Inchausti Beatriz , Esteban Galarza Marisol
Published: February 2020

Este estudio presenta una metodología aplicable en la identificación de atracciones turísticas centrales en entornos urbanos mediante el uso combinado de datos GPS y análisis de redes de atracciones visitadas por los turistas. La identificación de las atracciones centrales es fundamental para los gestores de una ciudad, tanto a la hora de planificar las instalaciones y servicios urbanos, o gestionar los recursos municipales, como localizar nuevas atracciones o captar todos los beneficios potenciales de los mismos. El primer paso de la metodología propuesta es la detección de las atracciones visitadas mediante el análisis de datos GPS. A partir de este conjunto de datos GPS se construye una red cuyos nodos son las atracciones visitadas y posteriormente se realiza el análisis de redes correspondiente. El estudio empírico se ha llevado a cabo en la ciudad de Bilbao, destino turístico que ha obtenido fama internacional gracias al Museo Guggenheim. Sorprendentemente, nuestra metodología conduce a resultados inesperados: mientras que los contenidos de las redes sociales (por ejemplo, TripAdvisor) y los expertos (agentes turísticos) señalan al Guggenheim como el principal activo turístico, en realidad resulta ser el Casco Viejo el lugar más visitado de Bilbao según el comportamiento espacial real detectado por nuestro método. Este enfoque metodológico puede servir para tomar decisiones más adaptadas y definir mejores políticas en materia de planificación y gestión urbana.
An integrated metagenomics and metabolomics approach implicates the microbiome-gut-brain-axis in the pathogenesis of Huntington’s disease transgenic mice
Authors: Kong Geraldine , Ellul Susan , Narayana Vinod , Kanojia Komal , Ha Harvey Tran Thai , Li Shanshan , Renoir Thibault , Cao Kim-Anh Le , Hannan Anthony
Published: February 2020

Background: Huntington’s disease (HD) is an autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disorder with onset and severity of symptoms influenced by various environmental factors. Recent discoveries have highlighted the importance of the gastrointestinal microbiome in mediating the bidirectional communication between the central and enteric nervous system via circulating factors. Using shotgun sequencing, we investigated the gut microbiome composition in the R6/1 transgenic mouse model of HD from 4 to 12 weeks of age (early adolescent through to adult stages). Targeted metabolomics was also performed on the blood plasma of these mice (n=9 per group) at 12 weeks of age to investigate potential effects of gut dysbiosis on the plasma metabolome profile. The short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) concentrations in the plasma were validated using LCMS. Results: Beta diversity differed between HD mice compared to their WT littermates at 12 weeks of age, suggesting that gut dysbiosis occurs prior to overt motor symptoms. Modelled time profiles of each species, KEGG Orthologs and bacterial genes, revealed heightened volatility in the HD mice, indicating potential early effects of HD mutation in the gut prior to significant cognitive and motor dysfunction. In addition to gut dysbiosis at 12 weeks of age, we also found functional differences between the WT and HD mice. The butanoate metabolism pathway, which leads to the production of the protective short-chain fatty acid, butyrate, was increased in the gut. However, the plasma concentration of butyrate and propionate were both decreased in the HD mice, as determined by the SCFA validation. The concentrations of ATP were increased by over 4-fold in the HD plasma, which was contrary to expectations. The statistical integration of the metagenomics and metabolomics unraveled several Bacteroides species that were positively correlated with butyrate levels, and negatively correlated with ATP and pipecolic acid in the plasma. Blautia producta and Prevotella scopos were found to be negatively correlated with the butyrate and ATP respectively. Conclusions: Our study has revealed a previously unknown relationship between the gut bacteria and plasma metabolome, suggesting the potential role of gut in modulating the pathogenesis of HD via specific altered plasma metabolites which mediate gut-brain signalling.
Predictive value of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio in diagnosis of early prostate cancer among men who underwent Robotic transperineal prostate biopsy
Authors: Jingzeng Du , Lim Ee Jean , Huang Hong Hong Hong , Lau Kam On Weber Kam On
Published: February 2020

Background

NLR is known to have prognostic value for metastatic prostate cancer (PCa). However for early PCa due to lack of systemic response; the role of NLR is not conclusive. In this study we aim to evaluate the predictive value of NLR for early clinical PCa in patients who underwent robotic transperineal prostate biopsy (RTPB).

Methods

Patients who underwent RTPB under general anesthesia (GA), at the Department of Urology, Singapore General Hospital between Sep 2006 and Feb 2016 were retrospectively reviewed. Exclusion criteria includes: 1. Patients with missing value of PSA NLR 2. Patients who underwent biopsy for non-diagnostic purposes. 3. Patients with chronic inflammation or high grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia. Patients who had more than one biopsies and only the last histology results were included in this study.

NLR was calculated for all patients using Complete blood count that was done as pre-admission test before GA within 4 weeks before operation. NLR values were compared between PCa; clinical significant PCa and benign group. Patients were divided further into different groups according to PSA level for subgroup analysis.

Results

A total 652 patients who underwent RTPB for diagnostic purpose with valid pre-procedure PSA level were included in this study. There were total 409 (62.7%) benign histology and 243 (37.3%) PCa cases. Median NLR in the benign histology group and PCa group were 2.00 and 1.99. There was no statistically significant (P=0.29).

In the subgroups analysis, there were also no significant difference of median NLR value in clinical significant cancer group (defined as Gleason 3 + 4 and above) when compared to benign group (NLR 2.00 vs. 2.01, P=0.41) as well as in prostate cancer group and benign group according to different pre-biopsy PSA levels (PSA < 4, 4-10, 10-20 and > 20 ug/L), respectively. (P>0.05). NLR is not a significant predictor for Gleason grade group and D’Amico risk stratification group. (P>0.05)

Conclusion

There were no statistical significant difference of NLR between benign and prostate cancer group as a whole or in the subgroup analyses for patients who underwent RTPB. NLR may have a limited role in predicting early prostate cancer.
Anti-viral effect of Indigoferra gerardiana on core protein of HCV and clinical significance of serum markers in chronic HCV genotype 3a patients in district Peshawar
Authors: Mumtaz Shahina , Ahmed Jawad , Tariq Shafiq Ahmad , Iqbal Waheed , Siraj Sami , Asghar Muhammad , Sarwar Tahir , Rehman Noor
Published: February 2020

Background/aim: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) disease is a health challenge due resistance cases globally. Many plant-derived natural compounds have demonstrated antiviral effects. These plants can provide an alternative way to new antiviral. Core protein of HCV has ability to interact with a wide range of viral and cellular proteins, including proto-oncogenes. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, total of 421 Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) positive patients were subjected by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). The correlation of genotype with continuous and categorical variables was analyzed. Furthermore, antiviral activity of indigoferra gerardiana (IG) was tested against core protein of HCV. The amplified complete core protein of HCV genotype 3a was sequenced and cloned. IG was extracted and screened against core protein of HCV 3a genotype in cell line. Results: Genotype 3a was the common genotype type of HCV (n=363, 86%). Significant differences were observed in viral load among 3a genotype of HCV (< P 0.05). Frequently detected age group was 21-40 (59.4%) Sex and age were statistically associated with HCV infection (49% males and 37% in females). The results of RT-PCR demonstrated that methanolic extract of IG showed 57% reduction of infecting cells. Conclusions: Methanolic extract of IG showed good antiviral activity i.e. 57% reduction of infecting cells.
Spatio-temporal Clusters of Health Workforce Distribution in Sichuan Province, China: a county-level analysis
Authors: Zhang Ning , Ning Wei , Xie Tao , Liu Jinlin , Zhu Bin , He Rongxin , Wang Xue , Mao Ying
Published: February 2020

Background The health workforce is a key determinant in achieving health equity. As a southwestern province of China, Sichuan confronted with the geographical variation of health workforce in recent years. The misdistribution of health workforce in Sichuan is severe for its complex terrain, uneven population distribution and huge economic differences. The study of Sichuan province is of great significance to other regions of China. Methods This study applied time-series analysis, spatial autocorrelation and space-time scan analysis to explore and visualize the spatial changing patterns of different types of health workforce (health technicians, licensed doctors, registered nurses, pharmacists, technologists, and intern) at the municipal and county level in Sichuan. Results The box plots displayed the temporal trend of health workforce from 2009 to 2018 via the county-level data. All types of health workforce were in rising generally especially the registered nurses. The space-time analysis and Global Moran' I revealed the distinctive geographical clusters among all the counties. The local Moran' I detected that HH clusters mainly in the capital and some rich places of Sichuan, while some mountain areas in eastern Sichuan displayed LL clusters. Four main findings should be paid attention to the whole health workforce of Sichuan province had an upward trend. Comparing with other provinces, the growth rate also was in a high rank; the areas with the scarcest resources were eastern place, including areas of Tsinling Mountains, Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, Hengduan Mountains and the transition zone of mountains and basins; misdistribution of health workforce had two levels, among the province and cities; the Qinghai Tibet Plateau has enough intern while being short of other health technicians. Conclusions The policies makers should pay more attention to the eastern Sichuan. As to the intern-related policies, the primary health tasks did not achieve, Qinghai Tibet Plateau areas needed to find practical ways to attract the interns
Immune status of children with complications of BCG/BCG-M vaccination
Authors: Sevostyanova T. A. , Аksenova V. A. , Kudlay D. A.
Published: February 2020

The objective of the study: to analyze certain parameters of immune status in children with complications after BCG/BCG-M vaccination.

Subjects and methods. The immune status parameters were tested in 24 children who developed complications after TB vaccination such as BCG-ostitis, BCG-lymphadenitis. Lymphocyte population was assessed using flow cytofluorometry by Cytomics FC 500 (Bekman Coulter).The serum level of immunoglobulins IgG, IgA, IgM was tested by immunodiffusion in Mancini agar. The leukocyte phagocytic activity was tested using flow cytofluorometry (Cytofluorimeter Cytomics FC 500) with FITC-labeled staphylococcus.

Results. Of the 24 children with BCG lymphadenitis or BCG ostitis, 22 (92%; 95% CI 73-99%) had abnormality in immune status.Of the 24 children, 7 had low CD3+count, while 9 had an elevated level of CD3+. The level of СD4+was low in 4 children and elevated in 15 pediatric patients. CD8+count was low in 21 children (88%; 95% CI 72-97%). 11 children had low СD16+number, and it was elevated in 2 children. In 10 children, low level of СD16+was combined with low level of CD8+. 10 children had low СD19+number, and it was elevated in 4 children. The leukocyte phagocytic index drastically decreased (down to 37%) only in 1 child, and in 23 children, it varied from 60 to 90%.IgG level was low in 13 (54%), and elevated in 2 (8%) children. IgA level was low in 6 (25%), and it was not detected at all in 8 (33.3%) children. IgM level was elevated in 4/24 (17%) children, while it was low in 1/24 (4%). In 8 children with no IgA detected, the IgG level was low in 5 of them, 3 had a normal level, and IgM level was elevated in 2 children, 6 children had a normal level of IgM. With IgA completely absent, 1 child had the normal level of IgG and IgM.
Drug resistance of M. tuberculosis (historical aspects, current level of knowledge)
Authors: Burmistrova I. A. , Samoylova A. G. , Tyulkova T. E. , Vaniev E. V. , Balasanyants G. S. , Vasilyeva I. A.
Published: February 2020

The review presents data on the frequency of detection of drug resistant (DR) tuberculosis mycobacteria (MTB) as well as on the change in DR patterns in Russia and abroad from the mid-50s of the 20th century till the present. Along with the well-known mechanisms for DR MTB development, it tells about new research describing mutations associated with drug resistance.
Influence of water stress on phenological development, biomass production and yield of Malaysian aerobic and lowland rice
Authors: Zaman Nadzariah Kamarul , Abdullah Mohd Yusoff , Othman Sariam , Zaman Nadzirah Kamarul
Published: February 2020

This experiment was conducted to examine the comparative growth performance and yield of the first Malaysian aerobic rice variety, MARDI Aerob 1 (MA1) along with local lowland rice, MR 253 grown under water stress condition at selected growth stages. The experiment consisted of four treatments with three replications arranged in a randomized complete block design. The four treatments consisted of the control with no water stress throughout (T1), and water stress imposition at panicle initiation (T2), flowering (T3) and ripening (T4) stages. Water stress treatments were terminated when water deficit symptoms such as leaf rolling and wilting were detected. The effects of stress were assessed using parameters related to phenology, biomass and yield components. Results showed that both varieties were significantly affected, when water stress was imposed at the panicle initiation stage. At this stage, the water stress delayed the phenological development, reduced the panicle dry mass, and severely caused grain yield reduction for both varieties. The MR 253 variety had higher grain yield than MA1 under normal aerobic condition but not under water stress, while MA1 still was able to maintain reasonable high yield even under water stress condition, except when the water stress occurred at the panicle initiation stage. Panicle initiation stage was the most sensitive period for both varieties as water stress at this stage greatly affected the overall growth performance and grain yield for both varieties.
Additive genetic prediction for F3 families of common black beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) using linear mixed models
Authors: Carvalho Ivan Ricardo , Szareski Vinícius Jardel , Ferreira Luiz Leonardo , Demari Gustavo Henrique , Barbosa Maurício Horbach , Rosa Tiago Corazza da , Lautenchleger Francine , Netto Jainara Fresinghelli , Boeno Daniel , Fachi Suélen Matiasso , Mendonça Mayara Torres , Boscaini Ricardo , Mambrin Ritieli Baptista , Sausen Darlene , Souza Velci Queiróz de
Published: February 2020

The aim of study is to estimate the variance components and genetic parameters (REML), as well as to predict the genetic value (BLUP) of F3 families of common black beans for the components of seed production. The experimental design was augmented blocks, where the 83 F3 families were arranged only in each block, and the commercial controls were organized in three replicates. The additive genetic effects were determinant for plant height and first pod insertion height. The pronounced effects of the environment are expressed for the number of pods, seeds and seed mass per plant. Potentiality in the selection of higher F3 families are revealed through the 2CBRS population for plant height and first pod insertion height, for the components of seed yield the selections should be directed to the populations 2CARS and 1FVRS. The number of seeds and seed mass per plant were potentiated in more than 28% of the selected F3 families, and pronounceable genetic gains are obtained by the selection of families 66, 65 and 67. The inferences obtained in this study present theoretical and practical foundation, and can be applied in future studies of breeding and production of common black bean seeds.
Rock phosphate fertilization harms Azospirillum brasilense selection by maize
Authors: Moraes Carime , Santos Roberta Mendes dos , Rigobelo Everlon Cid
Published: February 2020

Maize is the most important crop cultivated worldwide. It needs a significant amount of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilization to maintain high yields. However, the high cost of fertilization makes production more expensive and damages the environment. The present study used Azospirillum brasilense and Bacillus subtilis bacteria in an attempt to supply nitrogen and phosphorus fertilization to a maize crop. The experiment was carried out with maize plants under greenhouse conditions with a factorial scheme (4 x 2 x 2), where the first factor corresponded to bacterial inoculation: (a) control (no inoculation); (b) A. brasilense inoculation (AZ); (c) B. subtilis inoculation (BS) and (d) inoculation with a mixture of (AZ+BS), the second factor corresponded to the presence or absence of rock phosphate fertilization and the third factor corresponded to the presence or absence of top-dressed nitrogen fertilizer. Evaluated plant parameters were height, shoot dry matter (SDM), root dry matter (RDM), and soil parameters were total colony forming units of bacteria (CFU), nitrogen, soluble phosphorus and microbial biomass carbon (MBC). Although some parameters were improved with mineral fertilization in general, the findings showed that there were many adverse effects with the use of rock phosphate fertilization and A. brasilense inoculation. When both were applied together in treatments, there was reduction in plant height, microbial biomass carbon and total number of bacteria compared to treatments without rock phosphate fertilization. These results strongly suggest that rock phosphate harms the ability of A. brasilense to promote plant growth and demonstrate the necessity of new studies to verify whether this negative effect occurs under field conditions and could reduce yields in maize crop production.
Yields of sesame vary dramatically under rain-fed conditions on marginal lands in Thailand
Authors: Bunphan Darika , Knoll Joseph E. , Anderson William F.
Published: February 2020

The objectives of this research were to evaluate grain yield, related traits and some agronomic performances of 15 sesame cultivars under rain-fed conditions on marginal land of Northeast in Thailand. The experiments were conducted at two locations; Maha Sarakham and Buriram provinces in Northeast Thailand during the summer of 2018. The fields were arranged in a RCBD with 4 replications and 15 sesame cultivars. Significant differences were observed for all traits at both locations except SPAD chlorophyll meter reading (SCMR) at 90 DAP in Maha Sarakham. Significant differences were found between locations for yield and some of the yield components. It appeared that pod/plant, plant height, number of branches, and plant biomass were the most important components attributing to yield. Harvest index was negatively correlated with yield. Heritability estimates were the highest for plant height (0.88), branches per plant (0.92), pod width (0.95), and pod length (0.89). At Maha Sarakahm, cv. UB3 had the greatest grain yield (1058.03 kg ha-1), and was among the highest for number of branches/plant, plant height, and number of pods/plant, whereas KKU1 had the highest harvest index (43.62%). Mahasarakham60 had the highest SCMR value at 60 and 75 DAP and also total chlorophyll content at 60, 75 and 90 DAP. At Buriram cv. Buriram had the highest number of branches/plant, plant height, SCMR, total chlorophyll content, and number of capsules/plant, but did not have a high grain yield (334.44 kg ha-1). UB1 had the highest grain yield (545.63 kg ha-1) at Buriram. Environmental factors affected agronomic performances and grain yield in sesame grown under the rain-fed condition and marginal land in Thailand. If breeding under various environmental conditions, traits such as plant height and number of branches per plant would achieve the highest gains.
Susceptibility of corn to stink bug (Dichelops melacanthus) and its management through seed treatment
Authors: Silva Paulo Roberto da , Istchuk Ademar Novais , Hunt Thomas E. , Bastos Cristina Schetino , Torres Jorge Braz , Campos Karolayne Lopes , Foresti Josemar
Published: February 2020

We determined the susceptibility of vegetative corn stages to Dichelops melacanthus damage, and how seed treatment can reduce damage and yield loss. Two field trials were carried out. In the first, corn plants were artificially infested with D. melacanthus male/female pairs at rate of 0.5 pair per plant at different vegetative stages and infestation periods lasting 7-28 days (V1-V3, V1-V5, V1-V7, V1-V9, V3-V5, V3-V7, V3-V9, V5-V7, V5-V9, and V7-V9), plus a control without infestation. In the second, corn plants were artificially infested at a rate of one male/female pair per plant at different vegetative stages and infestation periods (V1-V3, V1-V5, V1-V7, V3-V5, V3-V7 and V5-V7) and treated with two pesticide seed coatings: (i) fungicide [carbendazim + thiram (150 g i.a. per L and 350 g i.a. per L)] + insecticide [clothianidin (600 g i.a. per L)] or (ii) only fungicide (carbendazim + thiram), plus three controls without infestation and with only fungicide-treatment (V1-V7, V3-V7 and V5-V7). In both trials, plants were caged during the entire period in order to hold stink bugs in contact with plants and to avoid injury from other arthropods. The most stink bug susceptible corn growth periods were from V1-V5 and from V1-V7. Seed treatment with clothianidin at the rate of 3.5 mL per Kg during the most susceptible infestation periods increased yield gain of 37.8 to 61%. Treatment with clothianidin during V1-V5 and V1-V7 caused 40% to 50% D. melacanthus adult mortality, respectively.
Physico-chemical properties and sensory profile of Coffea canephora genotypes in high-altitudes
Authors: Pinheiro Carlos Alexandre , Pereira Lucas Louzada , Fioresi Deusélio Bassini , Oliveira Daniela da Silva , Osório Vanessa Moreira , Silva Josimar Aleixo da , Pereira Ulisses Alves , Ferrão Maria Amélia Gava , Souza Elaine Manelli Riva , Fonseca Aymbiré Francisco Almeida da , Pinheiro Patrícia Fontes
Published: February 2020

In Brazil, Coffea canephora coffee is generally cultivated in hot climate regions and at altitudes below 400 - 450 m. There is little information on C. canephora cultivation at higher altitudes. Thus, the objective of this work was to determine the physicochemical properties and to perform the sensorial analysis of 21 different Coffea canephora coffee genotypes, grown at 720 m altitude in the state of Espírito Santo, Brazil. The field experiment was implemented in 2011 at the Incaper, Experimental Farm of Venda Nova using randomized block design, with four replications, eight plants per plot and spacing of 3.0 x 1.0 m. Thirteen clones of the clonal cultivar Vitória Incaper 8142 (V1 to V13) and eight clones of the clonal cultivar Robustão Capixaba Emcapa 8141 (R1, R2, R3, R6, R7, R8, R9 and R10) were studied. Grain samples were obtained from the third harvest in 2016. The harvest was performed when more than 80% of the fruits were ripe (August) and the freshly harvested coffee was processed using the conventional terrace drying method (natural processing). After the coffee was dried and processed, the four replicates were of each treatment were combined for the physicochemical analyses. The physicochemical analyses were performed (total titratable acidity, pH at 25oC and 96oC), reducing, non-reducing and total sugars were determined, chlorogenic acid (5-CQA), trigonelline and caffeine levels were determined by HPLC using the external standard method. Chlorogenic acid contents were found in the range of 2.60 to 3.65%. Caffeine levels ranged from 2.06 to 2.89%. There was no statistical difference in the final scores of the sensory analysis of the C. canephora coffees and the average value was 77.44 points, the same score for high-quality/premium coffee. Cultivation of C. canephora at high altitudes can be promising to obtain higher quality coffees from C. canephora species.
Alpha-gal syndrome: Implications for cardiovascular disease
Authors: Bianchi John , Walters Anneke , Fitch Zachary W , Turek Joseph W
Published: February 2020

Alpha-gal syndrome (AGS) refers to a potentially life-threatening allergy to the molecule galactose-α1,3-galactose (gal), which is expressed on most mammalian tissues but, importantly, is not expressed by humans. This syndrome can manifest as an allergic reaction to mammalian meat products, but other sources of mammalian tissue can also provoke an immune response, including injectable and implantable medical products. This syndrome has been linked to coronary atherosclerosis, and medical products that express gal are routinely used in cardiology and cardiac surgery. This article seeks to discuss potential implications of alpha syndrome as it relates to cardiovascular health and to heighten awareness in the cardiovascular community about this emerging public health issue.
Right ventricular crypts in a myocardial bridge: Relevance to surgical relief
Authors: Yacoub Magdi , Nagy Mohamed , Hosny Hatem , Doss Ramy , Afifi Ahmed , El Guindy Ahmed , Romeih Soha , Aguib Heba
Published: February 2020

Crypts are very thin walled invaginations from the cavity of the left ventricle into the compact myocardium. With the advent and increased application of multimodality imaging, crypts are being increasingly identified in both normal individuals and patients, with various conditions including HCM, before and after the development of LV hypertrophy, LV non-compaction and hypertensive heart disease. to date crypts have not been described in the right ventricle. We here describe for the first time, RV crypts which were extending into a myocardial bridge, in a patient with HCM and dynamic obstruction of the LAD coronary artery. We also document and discuss the serious complications which can arise from crypts, and highlight the importance of preoperative identification of crypts. Further studies are required to determine the fetal origin of crypts and their clinical significance
Inheritance Distribution of Adopted Children in The Perspective of Customary Law and Islamic Law Compilation: Case Study of the Application of Inheritance Law in Kudus
Authors: Kasdi Abdurrohman , Anwar Khoiril
Published: February 2020

This article aims to examine the position of adopted children, determine the position of adopted children's inheritance rights, as well as the application of the distribution of inheritance for adopted children in Customary Law and Compilation of Islamic Law in Kudus Regency. The method used is qualitative with a comparative approach. The results showed that the teachings of Islam did not deny the existence of adopted children as far as giving welfare and education to children. The position of adopted children in customary law is influenced by the family or family system. Their position from one region to another varies. In the case of the application of the distribution of inheritance for adopted children in adat law in Kudus District, several provisions of customary law state that the portion of adopted children is equated with the portion of biological children (if there is inheritance rights), or through the will of their adopted parents. While the application of Islamic Law Compilation in the distribution of inheritance in Kudus Regency also regulates wasiat wajibah, a will determined by law even though the person concerned does not inherit it.
Determination of Structural Properties of Some Important Polymers Used as Interfacial Layer in Fabrication of Schottky Barrier Diodes (SBDs)
Authors: BİLKAN Çiğdem
Published: February 2020

In this study, structural, electronic and thermal properties of important polymers such as Perylene (PER), Polypyrrole (PPy) and Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) commonly used in the production of metal-polymer-semiconductor (MPS) type Schottky Barrier Diodes (SBDs) were determined. Since the opto-electronic properties of the materials depend on the electronic band gap, the High Occupied Molecular Orbital (HOMO) and Low Unoccupied Molecular Orbital (LUMO) energies for the polymeric structures and the gap between of energy levels were calculated. In addition, entropy, heat capacity and total thermal energy values were calculated over a wide temperature range and it was determined how thermochemical properties of polymers were affected with temperature. The obtained results showed that while PER has a planar structure, PPy and PVA has a non-planar structure. PER also has the highest chemical reactivity among the polymers examined with large band gap calculated as 3.03 eV. In addition, thermochemical parameters of all polymers increase with increasing temperature almost as linearly.