bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Choosing the Distal Fusion Levels in Lenke Type 1 Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: How Do the Existing Classifications and Recommendations Guide Us?
Authors: Garg Bhavuk , Mehta Nishank , Mukherjee Rudra Narayan
Published: March 2020

Study Design:

Retrospective cohort.

Objective:

( a) To compare the recommendations of Lenke and Peking Union Medical College (PUMC) classifications in choosing distal fusion levels in Lenke 1 adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) curves and ( b) to analyze whether the variability in distal fusion levels influences treatment outcomes.

Methods:

Hospital records of Lenke 1 AIS patients operated for single stage, posterior-only deformity correction were analyzed. Distal fusion levels recommended by Lenke and PUMC classifications were calculated and were compared with the actual distal fusion levels. The study population was divided based on whether the actual distal fusion levels were in agreement, shorter or longer than those recommended by Lenke classification. Subgroup analysis of Lenke 1C curves was done. The groups were compared with regard to the following outcome measures: Cobb angle correction, postoperative sagittal vertical axis, postoperative C7 offset, and Scoliosis Research Society–22r (SRS-22r) score at 24 months.

Results:

The distal fusion levels recommended by the 2 classifications were in agreement in 92 of 104 cases. In all the cases with disparity, Lenke classification recommended shorter fusions than the PUMC classification. No statistically significant difference was observed in the outcome measures—whether the actual distal fusion levels were in agreement, shorter, or longer than those recommended by the Lenke classification or whether or not the recommendations for selective fusion of any of these classifications were adhered to.

Conclusion:

Lenke classification can save fusion levels without compromising on treatment outcomes when compared with PUMC classification. Variability in choice of distal fusion levels is not clinically significant at 24-month follow-up.
Tackling Weaknesses in Students’ Financial Analysis Capabilities: A Value-Based Exercise for Strategic Management Courses
Authors: Carter William R.
Published: March 2020

Appraising firm performance is an important aspect of the strategic management process. Unfortunately, many students in strategic management courses do not have adequate financial analysis skills to do this task. This deficiency affects their ability to learn and perform the full scope of the strategic management process. This article presents an exercise designed to address this challenge. The exercise emphasizes the central objective of strategic management, that is, the achievement of superior levels of creating and capturing value. The brief lesson and exercise enable students to use simple accounting metrics to appraise the quality of a firm’s current strategy, execution capabilities, and resulting competitive position. Primarily for undergraduate courses in which numerous students are challenged by quantitative analysis tasks, this exercise alleviates the need for instructors to invest an inordinate amount of time reteaching financial analysis.
Performance group weighting factors for rapid seismic loss estimation of buildings of different usage
Authors: Khakurel Shreedhar , Dhakal Rajesh P , Yeow Trevor Z , Saha Sandip K
Published: March 2020

Despite significant progress made recently on simplifying the loss estimation procedures, they are not easy to use in engineering design practice. One of the reasons for this is insufficient information regarding the inevitable variations in the type and density of structural and non-structural components present in various building usages. This study aims to establish building usage groups with similar proportions of structural and non-structural components and compute the corresponding weighting factors. The methodology adopted in this study can be used in other regions; however, herein concluded values and building usage groups are based on New Zealand–specific information. The method involves extracting component construction/installation costs from construction handbooks for a range of different building usages, assembling components into three performance groups (structural, drift-sensitive non-structural, and acceleration-sensitive non-structural), then grouping the building types based on similar structural and non-structural component costs. Four different building usage groups are identified, and probabilistic distribution parameters of the performance group weighting factors for each group are proposed. A case study demonstrating the application of these weighting factors in seismic loss estimation is provided.
Total knee replacement with and without emicizumab: a unique comparison of perioperative management
Authors: Evans Matthew S. , Davis Charles , Eyster M. Elaine
Published: March 2020

Key Points

Prophylaxis with emicizumab was used in a patient with severe hemophilia with an inhibitor who underwent knee surgery. Use of emicizumab during surgery led to less recombinant factor VIIa and less bleeding, in addition to cost savings, for this patient.
XIST promotes cell proliferation and invasion by regulating miR-140-5p and SOX4 in retinoblastoma
Authors: Wang Yuhui , Sun Dahong , Sheng Ying , Guo Hong , Meng Fanchun , Song Tingting
Published: March 2020

Background

Retinoblastoma (RB) is the most common intraocular malignancy in children. Long non-coding RNA X-inactive specific transcript (lncRNA XIST) has been reported to be associated with RB, but research on the mechanism of XIST is not well studied.

Methods

Expressions of XIST, microRNA-140-5p (miR-140-5p), and sex-determining region Y-related high-mobility group box 4 (SOX4) were analyzed by qRT-PCR or Western blot. Relationships of XIST, SOX4, and miR-140-5p were evaluated by dual-luciferase reporter assay and Spearman’s analysis. Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and Transwell assay were performed to assess the function of XIST on RB cell proliferation and invasion.

Results

In RB tissues, XIST and SOX4 expressions were obviously increased, but the miR-140-5p expression was markedly reduced. XIST expression was positively related to SOX4 expression while negatively correlated with miR-140-5p expression, and negative correlation was exhibited between miR-140-5p and SOX4 expression in RB tissues. XIST was confirmed to directly bind to miR-140-5p, and SOX4 was one target of miR-140-5p. XIST knockdown could impede RB cell proliferation and invasion, while miR-140-5p inhibition reversed the effects. In addition, XIST overexpression or miR-140-5p inhibition could abrogate the inhibition of SOX4 silencing on cell proliferation and invasion of RB cells.

Conclusions

XIST was obviously increased in RB tissues and cells, and XIST inhibition repressed the proliferation and invasion of RB cells by miR-140-5p/SOX4 axis, which may provide new understandings of the XIST molecular mechanism in RB.
Fibromatosis-like metaplastic carcinoma: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Victoor Jasper , Bourgain Claire , Vander Borght Sara , Vanden Bempt Isabelle , De Rop Carine , Floris Giuseppe
Published: March 2020

Background

We report an unusual case of low-grade fibromatosis-like metaplastic carcinoma (LG-FLMC) of the breast. This exceedingly rare epithelial breast malignancy has been reported only 68 times in the past 20 years, and is classified as a subtype of metaplastic breast carcinoma (MBC). It is a locally aggressive tumor with a low potential for lymph node and distant metastases, but with a tendency to recur after excision. Here we describe a less common presentation of LG-FLMC, provide its molecular characterization, discuss the major differential diagnosis and bring a short review of the literature.

Case presentation

A 65-year-old woman presented with a self-palpated breast lump that had discordant radio-pathological features. While imaging results were compatible with an infiltrative malignancy, on core needle biopsy (CNB) a sharply delineated lesion composed by a bland-looking population of spindle cells was observed; excision was recommended for final diagnosis. Histology of the resection specimen showed small areas of epithelial differentiation and foci of peripheral invasion. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed a co-immunoreactivity for epithelial and myoepithelial markers in the spindle cell component. Mutation analysis with a capture-based next generation sequencing method revealed pathogenic mutations in GNAS, TERT-promotor and PIK3R1 genes. A diagnosis of LG-FLMC was rendered.

Conclusion

This case highlights the importance of a broad differential diagnosis, exhaustive sampling and the use of a broad immunohistochemical panel whenever dealing with a low-grade spindle cell lesion in the breast, and provides further insights into the molecular background of LG-FLMC.
The impact of socio-demographic features on anxiety and depression amongst navy veterans after retirement: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Georgantas Dimitris , Tsounis Andreas , Vidakis Ioannis , Malliarou Maria , Sarafis Pavlos
Published: March 2020

Objective

Retirement from work may trigger various changes in everyday life that affect mental health. The current cross-sectional study, conducted with 231 veterans, examines the relationship between socio-demographic features and both anxiety and depression in navy veterans after retirement. Spielberg’s State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) was used for anxiety assessment, and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) was used for depression assessment. The analysis was performed with the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), version 20.0.

Results

It was found that the mean score of state anxiety was 41 and trait anxiety, 38. Severe depression was found in 6.5% of the veterans, moderate in 8.3% and mild in 21.7%. The presence of a serious health problems was an independent predictor of both anxiety and depression’s more serious symptoms. Inversely, the stability in terms of retirement choice was negatively related to depression, while the development of new interests and activities after retirement was negatively related to both anxiety and depression. Further, life satisfaction after retirement was a predictor of lower current anxiety levels among veterans.
Antimicrobial use and resistance in food-producing animals and the environment: an African perspective
Authors: Kimera Zuhura I. , Mshana Stephen E. , Rweyemamu Mark M. , Mboera Leonard E. G. , Matee Mecky I. N.
Published: March 2020

Background

The overuse of antimicrobials in food animals and the subsequent contamination of the environment have been associated with development and spread of antimicrobial resistance. This review presents information on antimicrobial use, resistance and status of surveillance systems in food animals and the environment in Africa.

Methods

Information was searched through PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and African Journal Online databases. Full-length original research and review articles on antimicrobial use, prevalence of AMR from Africa covering a period from 2005 to 2018 were examined. The articles were scrutinized to extract information on the antimicrobial use, resistance and surveillance systems.

Results

A total of 200 articles were recovered. Of these, 176 studies were included in the review while 24 articles were excluded because they were not relevant to antimicrobial use and/or resistance in food animals and the environment. The percentage of farms using antimicrobials in animal production ranged from 77.6% in Nigeria to 100% in Tanzania, Cameroon, Zambia, Ghana and Egypt. The most antibiotics used were tetracycline, aminoglycoside and penicillin groups. The percentage of multi drug resistant isolates ranged from 20% in Nigeria to 100% in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Tunisia. In the environment, percentage of multi drug resistant isolates ranged from 33.3% in South Africa to 100% in Algeria. None of the countries documented national antimicrobial use and resistance surveillance system in animals.

Conclusion

There is high level of antimicrobial use, especially tetracycline, aminoglycoside and penicillin in animal production systems in Africa. This is likely to escalate the already high prevalence of antimicrobial resistance and multi drug resistance in the continent. This, coupled with weak antimicrobial resistance surveillance systems in the region is a great concern to the animals, environment and humans as well.
Rhizosphere protists are key determinants of plant health
Authors: Xiong Wu , Song Yuqi , Yang Keming , Gu Yian , Wei Zhong , Kowalchuk George A. , Xu Yangchun , Jousset Alexandre , Shen Qirong , Geisen Stefan
Published: March 2020

Background

Plant health is intimately influenced by the rhizosphere microbiome, a complex assembly of organisms that changes markedly across plant growth. However, most rhizosphere microbiome research has focused on fractions of this microbiome, particularly bacteria and fungi. It remains unknown how other microbial components, especially key microbiome predators—protists—are linked to plant health. Here, we investigated the holistic rhizosphere microbiome including bacteria, microbial eukaryotes (fungi and protists), as well as functional microbial metabolism genes. We investigated these communities and functional genes throughout the growth of tomato plants that either developed disease symptoms or remained healthy under field conditions.

Results

We found that pathogen dynamics across plant growth is best predicted by protists. More specifically, communities of microbial-feeding phagotrophic protists differed between later healthy and diseased plants at plant establishment. The relative abundance of these phagotrophs negatively correlated with pathogen abundance across plant growth, suggesting that predator-prey interactions influence pathogen performance. Furthermore, phagotrophic protists likely shifted bacterial functioning by enhancing pathogen-suppressing secondary metabolite genes involved in mitigating pathogen success.

Conclusions

We illustrate the importance of protists as top-down controllers of microbiome functioning linked to plant health. We propose that a holistic microbiome perspective, including bacteria and protists, provides the optimal next step in predicting plant performance.
Ultrathin MEMS thermoelectric generator with Bi2Te3/(Pt, Au) multilayers and Sb2Te3 legs
Authors: Liu Yang , Mu Erzhen , Wu Zhenhua , Che Zhanxun , Sun Fangyuan , Fu Xuecheng , Wang Fengdan , Wang Xinwei , Hu Zhiyu
Published: March 2020

Multilayer structure is one of the research focuses of thermoelectric (TE) material in recent years. In this work, n-type 800 nm Bi2Te3/(Pt, Au) multilayers are designed with p-type Sb2Te3 legs to fabricate ultrathin microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) TE devices. The power factor of the annealed Bi2Te3/Pt multilayer reaches 46.5 μW cm−1 K−2 at 303 K, which corresponds to more than a 350% enhancement when compared to pristine Bi2Te3. The annealed Bi2Te3/Au multilayers have a lower power factor than pristine Bi2Te3. The power of the device with Sb2Te3 and Bi2Te3/Pt multilayers measures 20.9 nW at 463 K and the calculated maximum output power reaches 10.5 nW, which is 39.5% higher than the device based on Sb2Te3 and Bi2Te3, and 96.7% higher than the Sb2Te3 and Bi2Te3/Au multilayers one. This work can provide an opportunity to improve TE properties by using multilayer structures and novel ultrathin MEMS TE devices in a wide variety of applications.
Rubber artificial skin layer with flexible structure for shape estimation of micro-undulation surfaces
Authors: Ando Mitsuhito , Takei Toshinobu , Mochiyama Hiromi
Published: March 2020

In this paper, we propose a wearable tactile sensor for measuring the shape of micro-undulations on a hard surface. The proposed sensor has two layers. The inner one is a thin rubber layer into which a strain gauge is embedded that is formed around a user’s finger. The outer layer is a flexible structure that consists of numerous pins on a flexible sheet. The shape of micro-undulations on an object surface can be measured when a user wearing the sensor traces the surface. The results of an experiment, in which we compare the cases with and without the flexible structure of the sensor, show that our proposed sensor is sufficiently accurate to measure the shape of micro-undulations due to its flexible structure, which contributes significantly to improving its signal-to-noise ratio.
Changes in higher order aberrations after central corneal regularization - a comparative two-year analysis of a semi-automated topography-guided photorefractive keratectomy combined with corneal cross-linking
Authors: Iselin Katja C. , Baenninger Philipp B. , Bachmann Lucas M. , Bochmann Frank , Thiel Michael A. , Kaufmann Claude
Published: March 2020

Background

The optical quality in progressive keratoconus deteriorates due to ectasia and distortion of the corneal shape and optics. While corneal cross-linking (CXL) aims at stopping disease progression, “CXL-Plus” combines CXL with excimer laser ablation to improve visual function. Central Corneal Regularization (CCR) represents a therapeutic excimer laser modality specifically designed to smoothen the ectatic corneal shape and to reduce higher order aberrations (HOA). We set out to compare CXL-Plus, consisting of CXL combined with CCR, with CXL by itself for patients with progressive keratoconus.

Methods

Retrospective 2-year matched group analysis of patients who either underwent CXL-Plus (n = 28) or CXL as a sole procedure (n = 28) for progressive keratoconus. Main outcome parameters were HOA, visual function and tomographic results 12 and 24 months postoperatively.

Results

After 12 months, the total HOA root mean square wavefront error was reduced from 0.79 ± 0.30 to 0.40 ± 0.19 μm (CXL-Plus;p <  0.0001) and changed from 0.71 ± 0.28 to 0.73 ± 0.36 μm (CXL;p = 0.814). Uncorrected distance visual acuity improved from 0.70 ± 0.35 to 0.36 ± 0.29 logMAR (CXL-Plus;p = 0.0002) and from 0.65 ± 0.39 to 0.46 ± 0.37 logMAR (CXL;p = 0.067), translating to gains of three or more lines in 50% (CXL-Plus) and 36% (CXL) of patients. The steepest keratometry value (Kmax) regressed by 5.84 D (CXL-Plus;p <  0.0001) and 0.66 D (CXL;p = 0.752). For none of the investigated parameters a statistically significant change could be shown between 12 and 24 months.

Conclusions

CXL-Plus in the form of a CCR reduces HOA and Kmax more effectively than CXL as a sole procedure.
Membrane-bound exosomal HSP70 as a biomarker for detection and monitoring of malignant solid tumours: a pilot study
Authors: Chanteloup Gaétan , Cordonnier Marine , Isambert Nicolas , Bertaut Aurélie , Marcion Guillaume , Garrido Carmen , Gobbo Jessica
Published: March 2020

Background

Cancer is the second leading cause of death globally. Early detection and disease management lead to a better survival rate. Consequently, discovery of novel methods in cancer early diagnosis is a field of active research. Minimally invasive liquid biopsies are generating growing interest. Circulating tumour cells (CTCs) have been identified in patients’ blood; nevertheless, these cells are rare and heterogeneous. Exosomes are extracellular nanovesicles released into the extracellular environment via the endosomal vesicle pathway and found in different body fluids. Exosomes deliver bioactive cargo such as proteins, mRNA and miRNA to recipient cells in the tumour environment. We have recently shown that heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) is detected in the membrane of tumour-derived exosomes, in contrast to normal cells. One single cancer cell can release thousands of HSP70-exosomes, facilitating detection. The aim of the pilot study ExoDiag is to determine whether it is possible to detect and quantify HSP70-exosomes in blood in patients with solid cancers.

Methods

Bicentric pilot study that will include 60 adult patients with metastatic and non-metastatic solid tumours and 20 healthy volunteers. Exosomes will be isolated from blood and urine samples, and HSP70 concentration will be determined. Patients will be followed for 1 year. The study is sponsored by Georges-François Leclerc Centre and is currently ongoing.

Discussion

We expect to demonstrate that HSP70-exosomes could be a powerful tool to diagnose cancer and to guide clinicians in therapeutic decision-making, improving patient’s care.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT02662621. Registered 20 January 2016, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/study/NCT02662621?term=NCT02662621&rank=1
Prostitution in northern Central India: an ethnographical study of Bedia community
Authors: Rana Usha , Sharma Diwakar , Ghosh Debarati
Published: March 2020

Bedia community has been engaged in singing and dancing as ‘rai’ folk artists during the rule of monarchy in central India. It is mentioned in colonial literature that Bedia were a nomadic tribe and often engaged in criminal activities too. After the end of monarchy and change in the laws of the state, Bedias had nothing left for their survival. Therefore, Bedia women engaged in prostitution. Prostitution gradually became their primary source of livelihood. They trained their daughters to become prostitutes in the future. Girls were introduced into this profession as soon as they reached puberty. These girls worked at dance bars and also as professional sex workers in metro cities and villages. Their fathers and brothers worked as pimps/agents for the girls and their clients. Their families survived on the female’s earnings. Bedia community inhabits many villages of Madhya Pradesh and central India. Since these villages are close to the city, customers find it easy to visit prostitutes regularly, and occasionally prostitutes also visit a customer on demand. Bedia women have been vulnerable victims of their community’s traditional and cultural practices. Prostitution has a social stigma and is seen as immoral by other communities. Thus, Bedias are never accepted by other communities due to their disreputable professional practices. This paper deals with the historical understanding of the Bedia as sex workers and the contemporary situation of a particular community. The data was collected through ethnographic fieldwork from two villages (Habla and Fatehpur) and secondary sources. In particular, we shall discuss the socio-cultural aspects, family and kinship, lifestyle, the status of women, and domination of culture in this paper.
Η ακτίνα της Γης, ο προσδιορισμός του g και η μάζα της Γης
Authors: Αναστασάκης Δημήτρης , Βαρδανίκας Ιωάννης , Βόγια Ιωάννα , Κομνηνός Γεώργιος , Κωστόπουλος Χρήστος , Χαρίση Μαρία , Γλαράκη Δέσποινα , Ζιώκος Μάριος , Ασλάνογλου Λουκία , Μπλέρτα Σέχι , Αθανασιάδης Δημήτριος , Δημόπουλος Βασίλειος
Published: March 2020

Το θέμα της εργασίας είναι ο προσδιορισμός της μάζας της Γης, από μαθητές δύο διαφορετικών σχολείων της Ελλάδας. Το ερευνητικό ερώτημα της εργασίας είναι το ακόλουθο: ποιες αποκλίσεις προκύπτουν από τον προσδιορισμό της μάζας της Γης, αν πειραματικά προσδιοριστούν η ακτίνα της και η επιτάχυνση της βαρύτητας σε δύο διαφορετικές περιοχές;Αρχικά, τα Σχολεία μέτρησαν κατά την εαρινή ισημερία την ακτίνα της Γης, αξιοποιώντας τη μέθοδο του Ερατοσθένη. Στη συνέχεια, οι δύο ομάδες μαθητών υπολόγισαν με τη μέθοδο του απλού εκκρεμούς την επιτάχυνση της βαρύτητας στην περιοχή τους, μεταβάλλοντας το μήκος του απλούεκκρεμούς και μετρώντας την περίοδο. Η κλίση του διαγράμματος περίοδος στο τετράγωνο (Τ2) - μήκος (L) –με κατάλληλους υπολογισμούς- έδωσε την τιμή για το g. Τέλος, με αντικατάσταση στη , προσδιορίστηκε η μάζα της Γης. Στην εργασία γίνεται αναφορά στα αποτελέσματα των τελικών μετρήσεων καθώς και στη συνεργασία των μαθητών των δύο Σχολείων που  πραγματοποιήθηκε μέσω ηλεκτρονικής πλατφόρμας.
Growth, production and feed conversion performance of the gurami sago (Osphronemus goramy Lacepède, 1801) strain in different aquaculture systems
Authors: Azrita Azrita , Aryani Netti , Mardiah Ainul , Syandri Hafrijal
Published: March 2020

Background: Giant gourami (Osphronemus goramy, Osphronemidae), belonging to the gurami sago strain, is an important economic fish species that was newly released for domestication in 2018 in Indonesia. The present study aimed to determine the growth, production and feed conversion efficiency of gurami sago strain in different aquaculture systems.

Methods: A mean of 240 juveniles were stocked (mean, 54.53 g and 13.88 cm) into concrete ponds, ﬂoating net cages and earthen freshwater ponds (12 m3) with three replicates of each. The juveniles were fed a floating commercial pellet diet containing 30% crude protein and 5% crude lipids. Feed was supplied at 3% of fish biomass per day throughout the 90 days of the experiment. The research was conducted in the area surrounding Lake Maninjau of West Sumatera Province, Indonesia.

Results: After 90 days, the mean weight of ﬁsh reared in concrete ponds was 166.86 g, floating net cages was 179.51 g and earthen freshwater ponds was 149.89 g. The mean final biomass was 37.64 kg for concrete ponds, 41.27 kg for floating net cages, and 33.72 kg for earthen freshwater ponds. The specific growth rates (%/day) for concrete ponds, floating net cages and earthen freshwater ponds were 0.67, 0.75 and 0.62, respectively. The feed conversion rates were 1.45 for concrete ponds, 1.30 for floating net cages and 1.87 for earthen freshwater ponds. The net yields (kg mˉ3) were 2.05 for concrete ponds, 2.27 for floating net cages, and 1.73 for earthen freshwater ponds. The exponents (b) of the length–weight relationship were calculated for concrete ponds (1.0146), floating net cages (1.2641), and earthen freshwater ponds (1.0056).

Conclusion: The study showed that the growth performance, production and feed conversion efficiency of the gurami sago strain could be considered a new candidate strain for floating net cage aquaculture in the future.
Income and obesity in an urban poor community: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Andoy-Galvan Jo Ann , Lugova Halyna , Patil Sapna S. , Wong Yin How , Baloch Gul M. , Suleiman Adlina , Nordin Rusli , Chinna Karuthan
Published: March 2020

Background: Recent studies have shown that higher income is associated with a higher risk for subsequent obesity in low- and middle-income countries, while in high-income countries there is a reversal of the association – higher-income individuals have a lower risk of obesity. The concept of being able to afford to overeat is no longer a predictor of obesity in developed countries. In Malaysia, a trend has been observed that the prevalence of obesity increases with an increase in income among the low-income (B40) group. This trend, however, was not further investigated. Therefore, this study was performed to investigate the association of income and other sociodemographic factors with obesity among residents within the B40 income group in an urban community. 

Methods: This cross-sectional study used a systematic sampling technique to recruit participants residing in a Program Perumahan Rakyat (PPR), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The sociodemographic characteristics were investigated through face-to-face interviews. Weight and height were measured, and body mass index (BMI) was calculated and coded as underweight, normal, overweight and obese according to the cut-off points for the Asian population. A chi-squared test was used to compare the prevalence of obesity in this study with the national prevalence. A generalized linear model was introduced to identify BMI predictors.

Results: Among the 341 participants, 25 (7.3%) were underweight, 94 (27.6%) had normal weight, 87 (25.5%) were overweight, and 135 (39.6%) were obese. The proportion of obese adults (45.8%) was significantly higher than the national prevalence of 30.6% (p<0.001). Among all the tested variables, only income was significantly associated with BMI (p=0.046).

Conclusion: The proportion of obesity in this urban poor community was higher compared with the national average. BMI increased as the average monthly household income decreased.
Social discourse
Authors: Borzyh Stanislav
Published: March 2020

The monograph is devoted to what is discussed, accepted, rejected, interests, Angers, pleases and causes the other senses to a particular society and that no one of its members to avoid not. This "agenda" is set by the group in which it unfolds, and, furthermore, society itself determines what procedures will be applied to these or other topics, which of them do get it and how set up this whole process. Shows the properties of discourse and how it is being censored.
To a wider audience.
Molecular mechanics of biopolymers
Authors: Kostyukov Viktor
Published: March 2020

The monograph is devoted to molecular mechanics simulations of biologically important polymers like proteins and nucleic acids. It is shown that the algorithms based on the classical laws of motion of Newton, with high-quality parameterization and sufficient computing resources is able to correctly reproduce and predict the structure and dynamics of macromolecules in aqueous solution. Summarized the development path of biopolymers molecular mechanics, its theoretical basis, current status and prospects for further progress.
It may be useful to researchers specializing in molecular Biophysics and molecular biology, as well as students of senior courses of higher educational institutions, studying the biophysical and related areas of training.
Civil process
Authors: Demichev Aleksey , Gracheva Oksana , Il'in Igor' , Ilyuhina Vera , Karpychev Mihail , Malyutina Oksana , Mihin Aleksandr , Pronina Mariya , Pchelkin Aleksandr , Huzhin Al'fir , Shuhareva Anna
Published: March 2020

In the textbook prepared in accordance with the requirements of Federal state educational standards of higher education of the last generation in areas of training (specialties), "Jurisprudence", "law Enforcement" and "Legal national security", based on the analysis of current legislation and law enforcement practice considers the main problems of General and special parts of the course civil procedural law (civil process).
For students of higher educational institutions, as well as for all interested in the problems of civil procedural law.
Russia's future: transition into a new formation
Authors: Popov Vladimir
Published: March 2020

The monograph is devoted to the urgent needs of Russia's transition to a new convergent information formation. Analyzes the crisis of modern capitalism and liberalism, the experience of countries that have implemented the connection of the achievements of the market economy with social justice principles inherent in socialism. From the position of unity of classical, nonclassical and postnonclassical methodology, based on statistical and sociological and psychological data reveals the problems of the breakthrough of the country to innovative development. To this end, Russia has the necessary resources and capabilities - natural, historical, intellectual, psychological, moral, cultural etc. But there is one deficiency - lack of time.
For students and teachers and all those interested in issues of philosophy, sociology, psychology, Economics and informationology.
The analysis of activity of economic entities
Authors: Gerasimova Elena
Published: March 2020

The textbook comprehensively covers the main aspects of the analysis financially-economic activities of the organization, the article reveals theoretical and methodological foundations of the analysis of activity of economic subjects. Consists of three interrelated sections that reveal the complex and systematic approach to the economic analysis. The practical part of the tutorial includes exercises, questions and tasks for self-control.
Meets the requirements of Federal state educational standards of higher education of the last generation.
For students enrolled in directions of preparation of bachelors 38.03.01 "Economics" and 38.03.02 "Management". Can be used by specialists in the field of analysis of activity of the organizations, students and graduate students of economic direction of training. Also will be useful to all interested in the problems of analysis of activity of economic subjects.
The Correlation between Internal Quality Assurance and the Formation of Quality Culture in Vietnam Higher Education: A Case Study in Ho Chi Minh City
Authors: Do Dinh-Thai , Le Chi-Lan , Giang Thien-Vu
Published: March 2020

Implementing internal quality assurance activities is an indispensable condition to form a quality culture in higher education institutions in Vietnam which contributing to a fundamental and comprehensive renovation of Vietnamese higher education. The purpose of this research was to assess the correlation of internal quality assurance on the formation of quality culture through the types of higher education institution in Vietnam. A group of 222 teachers from 8 higher education institutions (4 public higher education institutions and 4 private higher education institutions) in Ho Chi Minh city participated in the survey. The questionnaire included three groups which are internal quality assurance activities, awareness of individuals, and organizational culture. The results showed that the correlation between internal quality assurance and the formation of quality culture is difference between two types of higher education institutions, in which with autonomy in higher education institution administration, the level of application of guaranteed the internal quality assurance activities is associated with quality culture developing in private higher education institutions higher than public higher education institutions.
An Ensemble-Based Malware Detection Model Using Minimum Feature Set
Authors: Zelinka Ivan , Amer Eslam
Published: March 2020

Current commercial antivirus detection engines still rely on signature-based methods. However, with the huge increase in the number of new malware, current detection methods become not suitable. In this paper, we introduce a malware detection model based on ensemble learning. The model is trained using the minimum number of signification features that are extracted from the file header. Evaluations show that the ensemble models slightly outperform individual classification models. Experimental evaluations show that our model can predict unseen malware with an accuracy rate of 0.998 and with a false positive rate of 0.002. The paper also includes a comparison between the performance of the proposed model and with different machine learning techniques. We are emphasizing the use of machine learning based approaches to replace conventional signature-based methods.
Ultra-broadband metamaterial absorber based on cross-shaped TiN resonators
Authors: Mehrabi Samira , Rezaei Mir Hamid , Zarifkar Abbas
Published: March 2020

In this paper, a novel broadband plasmonic absorber based on cross-shaped titanium nitride (TiN) resonators in the ultraviolet, visible, and near-infrared regions is presented. The proposed perfect solar absorber consists of periodic arrays of cross-shaped TiN resonators located on a stack of

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layers. By using the finite-difference time-domain method, the effects of variations of the thickness and radius of the elliptical metasurface resonators on the absorption are comprehensively investigated. The cross-shaped metamaterial absorber exhibits an averaged absorption of 90%, ranging from 200 to 3000 nm, and shows over 90% absorption from 200 to 2500 nm. Furthermore, the proposed absorber indicates absorption efficiency over 80% for an oblique incidence up to 50 deg for both TE- and TM-polarized light. These features make the proposed solar absorber usable in many solar-based applications, imaging, and thermal emitting.
Electrochromic modulation of plasmonic resonance in a PEDOT-coated nanodisk metasurface
Authors: Zhang Sen , Feng Lei , Zhang Hui , Liu Mingze , Xu Ting
Published: March 2020

The electrochromic modulation of plasmonic metasurfaces showing structural colors is a promising strategy to realize dynamic electronic reflective displays. However, hybridizing electrochromic polymers with large-area plasmonic metasurfaces remains challenging. In this study, we present a poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT)-coated gold nanodisk (PCGN) metasurface, which is fabricated based on techniques of large-area anodic aluminum oxide template-assisted deposition and electrochemical polymerization. Experimental and numerical results demonstrated that fast and reversible electrochromic modulation was realized within the PCGN metasurface. The wavelength control of the localized surface plasmon resonance of the PCGN metasurface originated from the electrically driven refractive index change of the PEDOT layer. The PCGN metasurface is promising for the high yield manufacturing of devices applied in dynamic reflective displays.
Giant enhancement of silicon plasmonic shortwave infrared photodetection using nanoscale self-organized metallic films
Authors: Frydendahl Christian , Grajower Meir , Bar-David Jonathan , Zektzer Roy , Mazurski Noa , Shappir Joseph , Levy Uriel
Published: March 2020

Many consumer technologies rely on photodetection of infrared light, such as lidar, low visibility imaging, proximity sensors/range finders, etc. However, silicon, the standard material of the semiconductor industry, becomes transparent for wavelengths above 1.1 µm, as the photons no longer have sufficient energy to stimulate direct band-to-band absorption. We report here a Schottky photodetector design that extends silicon’s optical detection range beyond this 1.1 µm limit, by utilizing internal photoemission of hot carriers. Our design relies on an ultra-thin fractally nanostructured aluminum optical absorber and yet remarkably achieves over 50% absorption of incident light. We demonstrate 2 orders of magnitude improvements of responsivity, noise-equivalent power, and specific detectivity as compared to a reference Schottky photodetector made of bulk metal films. We attribute this to the combination of superior transport and momentum relaxation processes from the nanoscale fractal geometries. Specifically, we show a direct link between internal quantum efficiency enhancement and structural parameters such as perimeter-to-surface ratio. Finally, our devices also function as bulk refractive index sensors. Our approach uses an exceedingly simple complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS)-compatible “bottom up” fabrication that is cheap and scalable and is a promising candidate for future cost-effective and robust shortwave infrared photodetection and sensing applications.
Synergy in the composition classroom: Powerful learning through technology and instructional design
Authors: Heil Leila
Published: March 2020

To provide insight into structural, technological and environmental factors that contribute to powerful learning experiences in composition tasks, this instrumental case study offers an examination of the interactions of various elements evident in a music composition class. Data were collected via classroom observations, participant interviews and miscellaneous documents. The synergistic relationship between instructional design components and classroom supports, mediated through the use of technology, served to transform the human–computer interface from problem-solving to possibility-driven action. Instructional design elements that contributed to student engagement were choice in assignment completion, a self-paced work environment and musical preference. Instructional supports facilitated a core student learning process that expanded foundational knowledge and skill through active engagement in exploration, identification of musical elements and decision-making; and through interaction with an expert instructor, reflection through peer engagement, technology affordances and autonomy.
A Brechtian perspective on London Road: Class representations, dialectics and the ‘gestic’ character of music from stage to screen
Authors: Stamatiou Evi
Published: March 2020

This article uses Brechtian philosophy to assess the role of music and song in the audience reception of the ‘verbatim musical’ London Road. The first section analyses class representations in London Road, with a particular focus on the dialectics and the ‘gestic’ role of the music and song. The second section explores how the adaptation from stage to screen further affects the dialectics of the musical and, paradoxically, serves key Brechtian aims. I focus on two dramaturgical changes in the adaptation from stage to screen: the chronological order of the narrative and the alternation of interview sections and dramatized sections, which resembles the structure of the popular drama-doc genre. Given that reordering and restaging the original verbatim numbers affected audience reception, I analyse the way the meaning is affected through the Brechtian notions of alienation and the gestic character of music. Throughout, I discuss class representations and relevant dialectical implications.
Crossing effect for improving egg production traits in chickens involving local and commercial strains
Authors: Soliman Mostafa Ahmed , Khalil Mohamed Hassan , El-Sabrout Karim , Shebl Mostafa Kamel
Published: March 2020

Aim: This study aimed to contribute to the productivity improvement of the local chickens by enhancing their egg production traits using a crossbreeding program between Alexandria (local strain) and Lohmann White (commercial strain). Materials and Methods: One thousand two-hundred and eighty-five 4-week-old chicks from two strains: Alexandria local strain (AA) and Lohmann White commercial strain (LL) and their reciprocal crosses obtained from 16 males and 160 females, were used to produce four genetic groups (AA, LL, AL, and LA). Differences among genotypes, direct additive, heterosis, and reciprocal effects were investigated regarding the following traits: Body weight at 4 and 8 weeks and at the age of sexual maturity, age at sexual maturity, egg production, average egg weight, and egg mass during the first 90 days of laying. Results: Statistically significant effects of the genotypes were observed on traits studied. Analysis of direct additive effects showed that AA was superior as a sire strain for improving body weight at early age. For egg traits (age at sexual maturity, egg production, average egg weight, and egg mass), LL was better as a sire strain to improve these traits. Significant positive heterosis percentages were observed for body weight. The crosses (AL and reciprocal) were significantly superior in egg traits (egg production, average egg weight, and egg mass) compared to the local strain. The cross (LA) laid significantly earlier than the local strain. Analysis of reciprocal effects cleared that the local strain could be used as a strain of dam to improve body weight and egg traits. Conclusion: Crossing improved egg production, egg weight, and egg mass in hybrids compared to the local strain.
KARAKTERISTIK DAN ASPEK BIOLOGI Scaphopoda (MOLUSKA)
Authors: Ibrahim Putri Sapira
Published: March 2020

CHARACTERISTICS AND BIOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF Scaphopoda (MOLLUSCS). Scaphopoda are bilaterally symmetrical marine molluscs, commonly known as the "tusk shells" because their shells are conical. There are approximately 900 species of Scaphopoda, found in soft silty marine sediments, which they burrow in search of food. Scaphopoda feeds on microorganisms, their diet dominated by foraminiferans. Hermaphroditic scaphopoda has been reported but rare. The biodiversity of Scaphopoda had been underestimated because the taxonomic and biological aspects of scaphopoda have not been well studied. Classification, morphology, reproduction, behavior, habitat, and distribution of Scaphopoda are discussed in this paper.
Environmentally Healthy Ways to Keep Clothes out of the Washing Machine
Authors: Anderson Kim
Published: March 2020

There are many good reasons for reducing the amount of time your clothes spend in the washing machine. According to The Ellen MacArthur Foundation, synthetic fabrics shed plastic particles equivalent to 50 billion plastic bottles every year. But synthetic fibers are not the only culprit.
Washing clothes— regardless of the fiber type, is a water and energy guzzling affair. Unfortunately, many people believe their clothes only have one or two wear cycles before they need to be laundered. However, there are some environmentally cost-effective ways that might convince people
that clothes do not have to be washed so often.
Ovid and Statius, Thebaid 6.54–78. Necessary Allusions or a Metapoetic Dialogue?
Authors: Pierzak Damian
Published: March 2020

Statius’ description of the funeral games held in honor of the baby Opheltes contains several utterances reminiscent of Ovid. The paper aims to show that these should not be read as the so-called necessary allusions, but rather as the poet’s complex dialogue with his predecessor.
Conflicting Laws and Priorities as Drug Policy Implementation Barriers: A Qualitative Analysis of Police Perspectives in Tijuana, Mexico
Authors: Morales Mario , Baker Pieter , Rafful Claudia , Mittal Maria L. , Rocha-Jimenez Teresita , Clairgue Erika , Arredondo Jaime , Cepeda Javier A. , Strathdee Steffanie A. , Beletsky Leo
Published: March 2020

Background and Aims

Drug policy reforms typically seek to improve health among people who use drugs (PWUD), but flawed implementation impedes potential benefits. Mexico’s 2009 drug policy reform emphasized public health-oriented measures to address addiction. Implementation has been deficient, however. We explored the role of municipal police officers’ (MPOs) enforcement decision-making and local systems as barriers to reform operationalization.

Methods

Between February-June 2016, 20 semi-structured interviews were conducted with MPOs in Tijuana. Interviews were transcribed, translated and coded using a consensus-based approach. Emergent themes, trends and frameworks were analyzed through a hermeneutic grounded theory protocol.

Results

In conceptualizing their orientation towards municipal (not state) law, MPOs reported prioritizing enforcement of nebulous anti-vice ordinances to control PWUD activity. Local laws were seen as conflicting with drug policy reforms. Incentives within the police organization were aligned with ordinance enforcement, generating pressure through quotas and reinforced by judges. Driven by discretion, fuzzy understanding of procedures, and incentives to sanitize space, detention of PWUD for minor infractions was systematic.

Conclusions

Failure to harmonize policies and priorities at different levels of government undermine effective operationalization of health-oriented drug policy. Implementation must address local priorities and administrative pressures shaping MPO decision-making and enforcement practice.
An Indexing Theory for Working Memory Based on Fast Hebbian Plasticity
Authors: Fiebig Florian , Herman Pawel , Lansner Anders
Published: March 2020

Working memory (WM) is a key component of human memory and cognition. Computational models have been used to study the underlying neural mechanisms, but neglected the important role of short-term memory (STM) and long-term memory (LTM) interactions for WM. Here, we investigate these using a novel multiarea spiking neural network model of prefrontal cortex (PFC) and two parietotemporal cortical areas based on macaque data. We propose a WM indexing theory that explains how PFC could associate, maintain, and update multimodal LTM representations. Our simulations demonstrate how simultaneous, brief multimodal memory cues could build a temporary joint memory representation as an “index” in PFC by means of fast Hebbian synaptic plasticity. This index can then reactivate spontaneously and thereby also the associated LTM representations. Cueing one LTM item rapidly pattern completes the associated uncued item via PFC. The PFC–STM network updates flexibly as new stimuli arrive, thereby gradually overwriting older representations.