bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spectroscopic and elementary characterization of humic substances in organic substrates
Authors: Da Silva Rubens Ribeiro , Lucena Guilherme Nunes , Machado Ângela Franciely , De Freitas Gilson Araújo , Matos Antônio Teixeira , Abrahão Walter Antônio Pereira
Published: November 2018

The humic substances, major constituents of the organic matter of the substrates, play an important role in plant development, including: the availability of nutrients, the generation of negative charges (CEC) and the buffering effect. Based on this, this study aimed to use the molecular absorption spectroscopy in the ultraviolet-visible region (UV-VIS), the vibrational spectroscopy Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and the elementary analysis CHN/O techniques to characterize the humic acid (HA) and fulvic acid (FA) fractions of the humic substances of five organic substrates, named as T1, T2, T3, T4, and T5, which were produced at the Federal University of Tocantins – Campus Gurupi. The molecular absorption spectra in UV-VIS and FTIR on the T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5 substrates showed humification, the formation of negative charges, which is related to the cation exchange capacity (CEC) and the complexation of metal ions that are considered nutrients. The biggest humification was shown for the T4 substrate, in function of its higher cabon-acid humic/carbon-acid fulvic ratio and the lower C/N ratio, allied to a negative charge generation, the low E4/E6 ratio found in the humic acid fraction. The complexation of metal nutrient ions indicates the greatest potencial of its use for seedlings production and the conservation of the chemical and physical properties of the organic substrate.
Genetic diversity among accessions of acerola based on the quality of fruits
Authors: Magalhães Deniete Soares , Rufini José Carlos Moraes , Alburquerque Alejandra Semiramis , Viol Renata Elisa , Fagundes Miriã Cristina Pereira , Menezes Thatiane Padilha de
Published: November 2018

Knowledge of the quality of fruits and the genetic variability among genotypes of acerola is important to optimize the use of genetic resources in improvement programs. The objective of the present study was to assess physico-chemical characteristics to determine genetic divergence among 24 genotypes of acerola. Sixty ripe fruits were collected per plant in a commercial orchard in the municipality of Jequitibá-MG. They were assessed in two production seasons with regard to their physical, chemical, and physico-chemical characteristics. Multivariate analysis of the genetic divergence among the genotypes was performed using principal component analysis, Tocher’s clustering method, and the nearest-neighbor hierarchical method, using the standardized mean Euclidean distance as the measure of dissimilarity. Genotypes 13, 20, and 23 exhibited means that were higher than the overall mean values for the main characteristics (fruit mass, ratio, and vitamin C content). Genotypes 3, 6, 8, 21, and 24 stood out with regard to fruit mass and ratio, i.e., they were larger and sweeter. Genotype 16 stood out with regard to fruit mass and vitamin C content. Results obtained using the methods were comparable, and the methods were effective in discriminating between the genotypes. This indicated variability, with potential for use in improvement programs. Based on the mean values for the chemical and physical characteristics of fruits and considering the genetic divergence among the genotypes, it was possible to suggested nine crosses to generate a future improved population, namely between genotype 11 and genotypes 3, 6, 8, 13, 16, 20, 21, 23, and 24.
Floristic composition of weeds in different winter and summer covers
Authors: Caratti Fernanda Cassiane , Lamego Fabiane Pinto , Reinehr Marcela , Fabiani Mirian Fracasso , Frizon Daiane , Mazzon Marines
Published: November 2018

The usage of cover crops is an adopted cultural measure that shows positive effects when associated with the no-till system and weed management. During the cycle of the plants there might be competition within them for water, solar radiation and nutrients and effects of allelopathic substances released by leaching, volatilization and/or root exudation in the environment might also coexist. The study aimed to quantify the floristic composition of weed species in an cultivated area with cover crops during winter and summer, for two years, 2011/12 and 2012/13, in an experimental area of UFSM, Campus of Frederico Westphalen – RS state, Brazil. The treatments consisted of Italian ryegrass, wild radish, black oat, vetch, wheat and uncultivated, in winter, and, sorghum, sunflower, black velvet bean, dwarf velvet bean, gray velvet bean and green velvet bean in the summer. In the first year of the experiment, a diversity of weeds in winter was observed, especially occuring Stellaria media and Bowlesia incana. In summer, the weeds of higher importance were Ipomoea spp. and Bidens spp., both of utter importance in agricultural systems. Winter cover crops of wild radish and Italian ryegrass and summer cover crops of sorghum and sunflower provided a lower weed infestation
Physiological quality of Gossypium hirsutum L. seeds after the thermal delinting process
Authors: França Pablo Radamés Cabral de , Almeida Francisco De Assis Cardoso , Silva Odilon Reny Ribeiro Ferreira da , Jerônimo Jeane Ferreira
Published: November 2018

The removal of lint from cotton seeds is mainly carried out through chemical delinting, but it is an expensive procedure and requires high technology. The objective was to evaluate the physiological quality of Gossypium hirsutum L. seeds delinted by flaming using a thermal delinter prototype. Cotton seeds BRS 286 were flamed in nine settings intensities and compared to chemical delinting and seeds with lint. We analyzed the water content, germination, first count, germination speed index (GSI), length and dry mass of roots and shoots. Using a completely randomized design and the means were compared by Scott-Knott test at 5% probability. In evaluating, the germination percentage did not differ between treatments with chemical and thermal low intensity delinting compared to the control. In vigor tests were observed higher mean values of the chemical treatment to the other treatments, except in GSI test and root dry weight when subjected to thermal delinting of low and medium intensity. The delinting made through the prototype enables efficient results, as well as the chemical delinting with sulfuric acid, without affecting germination and vigor when flamed with low and middle intensity, regardless of the number of active burners.
Melon fruit quality front mildew incidence and management of nitrogen and potassium topdressing
Authors: Santos Gil Rodrigues , Bonifacio Aurenivia , Rodrigues Artenisa Cerqueira , Dalcin Mateus Sunti , Sarmento Renato Almeida , Nascimento Ildon Rodrigues
Published: November 2018

This work aimed to evaluate the application effect of different dosages of nitrogen and potassium topdressing on mildew severity and on yield and fruit quality of melon. The three cultivars, Jangada, Gaucho Casca de Carvalho and Gaucho Redondo Cone Sul were evaluated in Cerrado (savannah) and floodplain areas. At 34 days after sowing (DAS) the topdressing treatments with different dosages of nitrogen and potassium were applied. The mildew severity estimation started at 56 DAS and was performed in five-days intervals until the harvesting of the fruits. The yield and physicochemical characteristics of the collected fruits were evaluated at harvest. There was no significative interaction among nitrogen and potassium topdressing, the cultivars and cultivated areas. However, there was significative differences when the factors were analyzed in separate. The cultivar Gaucho Redondo Cone Sul showed a significant linear increase in the area under the disease progress curve and higher productivity on cerrado compared to the remaining cultivars. The cultivar Gaucho Casca de Carvalho produced heavier and with higher °Brix fruits on cerrado. It is possible to conclude that the applied topdressings did not reduce the mildew severity in all tested cultivars, but they increased the yield in the floodplain area without modifying the physicochemical characteristics of the pulp on the evaluated melon fruits.
Reproductive disorders in dairy cows of the southwest of Paraná
Authors: Giacomelli Fernanda Elisa , PINTO NETO ADALGIZA , MOTA MARCELO FALCI , MARTINEZ ANTÔNIO CAMPANHA , MERLINI LUIZ SÉRGIO
Published: November 2018

Reproductive efficiency of dairy cows is evaluated directly considering the calving interval, which is affected by nutrition, irregular estrus cycle, prolonged anestrus, and reproductive diseases. Reproductive diseases cause economic losses due to diagnosis and treatment costs, and reduction in milk production. Thus, the objective of this study was to report the occurrence of the main reproductive disorders in dairy cows of the Southwest of Paraná, South of Brazil. Data of ultrasound diagnoses were collected from 2274 cows of 70 rural properties in the municipalities of Realeza, Planalto, Capanema, Pérola do Oeste, and Santa Isabel do Oeste from January 2014 to May 2015. Reproductive disorders were found in 24.50% (557/2274) of the animals evaluated; ovarian cysts (follicular, and luteal) were the most significant disorders, found in 16.13% (367/2274) of the cases. Other disorders were found less frequently. The occurrence of follicular and luteal cysts was observed especially in primiparous animals in months of pasture transition.
Plant growth and symptomatology of macronutrient deficiencies in cowpea plants
Authors: Eduardo Melo Santiago Franklin , Louzeiro de Aguiar Santiago Flávia , Ferreira Lustosa Filho José , Felippe Ratke Rafael
Published: November 2018

Cowpea is a widely grown annual legume in the North and Northeast regions of Brazil. It is one of the main sources of protein and income for the populations of these regions. However, few studies have shown the nutritional requirements, and symptomatology of nutritional deficiencies of cowpea cultivars. In this context, the objective of this work was to evaluate the initial growth and symptomatology of macronutrient deficiencies in cowpea plants of the BR17-Gurguéia cultivar. A randomized complete experimental design with three replications was used, with seven treatments consisted of nutrient solutions containing no N, P, K, Ca, Mg, or S, and a nutrient solution containing all macro and micronutrients as control, using one plant per plot. Plant height, stem diameter, number of leaves, leaf area, root volume, and shoot and root dry weights were evaluated, and visual symptoms of nutritional deficiencies were described at 30 days after planting. Nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and magnesium were the most limiting nutrients for the vegetative growth and biomass production of cowpea up to 30 days of cultivation. The absence of these elements in the nutrient solution caused morphological changes and visual symptoms that are characteristic of the nutritional deficiency of these nutrients.
Agroforestry systems and their effects on the dynamics of solar radiation and soybean yield
Authors: Sgarbossa Jaqueline , Schwerz Felipe , Elli Elvis Felipe , Tibolla Liliane Bárbara , Schmidt Denise , Caron Braulio Otomar
Published: November 2018

Agroforestry systems have been highlighted in the agricultural environment as an alternative form of sustainable production to meet the growing demand for food and energy with less environmental impact. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of different forest species on the dynamics of solar radiation and the productive response of soybean grown in agroforestry systems. Two field experiments were carried out in the city of Frederico Westphalen - Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. In order to reach the aim of this study, the solar radiation transmissivity and the productive performance of soybean were evaluated. Productivity followed the same tendency as solar radiation transmissivity; in an agricultural year, the species with the higher incidence of solar radiation to the understory presented the best yield. The forest species Schizolobium parayba, Peltophorum dubium and Parapiptadenia rigida were used as they present the potential to compose the agroforestry systems; their canopy structure and leaf architecture provide greater availability of solar radiation in the subforest. The interception of solar radiation by the forest component of more than 50% significantly reduces soybean yield in agroforestry systems, requiring silvicultural practices that promote the availability of solar radiation in the understory.
Reviewers that contributed in this issue
Authors: FAVE Revista
Published: November 2018

Revisores
Process Parameters Optimization in Membrane Fabrication for Produced Water Treatment Using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and Central Composite Design (CCD)
Authors: Kusworo Tutuk Djoko , Puji Utomo Dani , Rahmatya Gerhana Annizah , Angga Putra Hanifah
Published: November 2018

Produced water is wastewater from oil production that must be treated well. Membrane is one alternative to water treatment technology based on filtration method. But, in the use of a membrane, there’s no exact variable optimal that influences performance of the membrane. This underlying research to assess factors that influences the performance of membrane to be more optimal.  Therefore, the objectives of this study determine the optimum variable through Respond Surface Methodology and Central Composite Design. After getting the optimal condition then will check the stability of the membrane. This experiment of optimization of produced water with asymmetric membrane's Polyether sulfone (PES) using Response Surface is done with varying the Zeolite concentration by low level 1% weight and 3% weight, length of UV irradiation time low level 2 minutes and high level 6 minutes, thermal annealing low level 160 ºC and high-level 180ºC. An analyzer done in this research was by processing data research to make table and charts of the relationship between the result of this experiment with changed variable, namely variation of PES concentration, time of UV ray and thermal annealing by using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and Central Composite Design (CCD).
Ultra-capacitor based Hybrid Electric Vehicle (Medium) for Developing Countries
Authors: Hasan Md. Zahid , Adnan Md. Rubaiat , Saha Sabhasachi , Roy Souvik
Published: November 2018

This research is directed to the hybridization of battery and ultra-capacitor for a better effectiveness. This portrays the benefits of introducing an ultra-capacitor into a battery pack of an urban electric vehicle drive train. Matlab Simulations are done taking two basic scenarios into consideration: fresh cells and half-used battery cells. The simulations show that the lower the temperature (25-28 OC) higher the hybrid system efficiency (25-30%). Data from real world and previous studies are considered to conduct this study. Previous studies showed efficiency raise upto 7%, whereas this system showed around 14% efficiency raise. Simulations are done considering modified Bangladeshi drive cycle for low weight vehicles. Several issues like volumetric, gravimetric and cost issues of hybridization are present in this paper. By this system the power loss of the system can be reduced by up to 5% to 10% regarding to conventional system. Finally hybridization not only increases the efficiency of the energy storage system also increases the power train efficiency and battery lifespan. This paper would help researchers for further development of this topic.
Association analysis of tolerance to dieback phenomena and trunk form using ISSR markers in Quercus brantii
Authors: Shamari Abdol-Reza , Mehrabi Ali-Ashraf , Maleki Abbas , Rostami Ali
Published: November 2018

Oak decline is a complex syndrome in which several damaging agents interact and bring about a serious dieback in tree condition. Genetic diversity is a key factor for better adoption of natural populations to environmental stresses. The objective of this research was to identify the association of polymorphism patterns of different reproducible genomic Inter simple sequence repeats (ISSR markers) to level of dieback phenomena and also growth type in 18 different stands of Persian oak in central Zagros region. Totally, 180 trees were sampled and evaluated for growth type, tree diameter at breast height (DBH) and level of tree dieback. Genomic DNAs extracted of fresh leaves amplified using 15 multi-locus ISSR primers. The population structure determined using the Bayesian model-based clustering method implemented in STRUCTURE software by Monte Carlo Markov Chain (MCMC) method. Five distinct sub-populations (K=5) determined by the log likelihood of the data.  Genome wide association study (GWAS) performed using the generalized linear model (GLM) and the mixed linear model (MLM) with Kinship matrix. Informative alleles recognized for level of tolerance to dieback and tree growth type traits. It was observed a significant co-segregation for phenotypic data and some of amplified fragments. Identification of these informative DNA markers can be utilized for pre-screening of high quality oak seedlings in early growth stages and better management in restoration of damaged stands.
Barthes liest Baudelaire und Mallarmé: Der Jahrmarkt als Mythos des Alltags
Authors: Wörsdörfer Anna Isabell
Published: November 2018

With its numerous offers of entertainment on the festival ground, the fair – site and event at the same time – represents an ‘extra-ordinary’ diversion with regard to the uniform working rhythm. However, because of its persistent (annual) return, it is nevertheless solidly anchored in people’s everyday lives. This article analyzes the phenomenon’s topographic and functional dimensions through the example of three prose poems by Charles Baudelaire and Stéphane Mallarmé. It first focuses on the fairground and the fair’s heterotopic character according to Michel Foucault is carved out. Secondly, from the perspective of leisure event, the fair, according to Roland Barthes, becomes the modern myth, in which the naïve crowd of visitors functions as the reader of myths and the poems’ sophisticated speaker as mythologist. In this interpretation, the latter takes another role besides that of the poet: the speaker is the producer of myths who turns the fair into an aesthetic piece of art.
On Writing a Comparative Literary History: Delocalizing Minor Literatures in European Languages in the Age of ‘Big Data’
Authors: Domínguez César , Di Rosario Giovanna , Ciastellardi Matteo
Published: November 2018

“Minor literature” is an elusive concept in literary scholarship. Its widespread use stands in sharp contrast to the paucity of its theoretical development, which is limited to Gilles Deleuze and Félix Guattari’s 1975 seminal book Kafka. Pour une littérature mineure. We claim that a comparative history of minor literatures in European languages – a nonexistent project so far – requires three preliminary steps, namely, conceptual clarification, cross-pollination between comparative literary history and the digital humanities, and a bibliometric analysis of the minor-literature constellation. First, conceptual clarification is needed to show, on the one hand, how Deleuze and Guattari’s arguments on minor literatures significantly differ from those of what they posit as their source (Kafka’s discussion on kleine Literaturen) and, on the other hand, the existence of alternative genealogies. Second, by adhering to a Braudelian definition of comparative history, the massive data needed for addressing the production and reception of (minor) literatures in specific social and cultural contexts would immensely benefit from recourse to digital tools. Third, and as an example of approaching conceptual clarification with digital tools, a quantitative study of the minor-literature constellation must be performed using a key tool of international scholarship (the MLA International Bibliography). In the current paper, we may only provide an introductory survey of these three fields and, therefore, the results are tentative and further research is needed.
Chemistry and biochemistry of cold physical plasma derived reactive species in liquids
Authors: Wende Kristian , von Woedtke Thomas , Weltmann Klaus-Dieter , Bekeschus Sander
Published: November 2018

Reactive oxygen and nitrogen species deposited by cold physical plasma are proposed as predominant effectors in the interaction between discharge and biomedical application. Most reactive species found in plasma sources are known in biology for inter- and intracellular communication (redox signaling) and mammalian cells are equipped to interpret the plasma derived redox signal. As such, considerable effort has been put into the investigation of potential clinical applications and the underlying mechanism, with a special emphasis on conditions orchestrated significantly via redox signaling. Among these, immune system control in wound healing and cancer control stands out with promising in vitro and in vivo effects. From the fundamental point of view, further insight in the interaction of the plasma-derived species with biological systems is desired to (a) optimize treatment conditions, (b) identify new fields of application, (c) to improve plasma source design, and (d) to identify the trajectories of reactive species. Knowledge on the biochemical reactivity of non-thermal plasmas is compiled and discussed. While there is considerable knowledge on proteins, lipids and carbohydrates have not received the attention deserved. Nucleic acids have been profoundly investigated yet focusing on molecule functionality rather than chemistry. The data collected underline the efforts taken to understand the fundamentals of plasma medicine but also indicate ‘no man’s lands’ waiting to be discovered.
Is Rajyoga helpful in maintaining patient’s biochemical and hematological profile during breast cancer treatment?
Authors: Goyal Atul Kumar , Bakshi Jaimanti , Rani Sushma , Didi BK Anita , Anand Akshay
Published: November 2018

The present study is the case of a breast cancer patient who visited the local unit of the Brahma Kumaris (BK). Conversations with the patient revealed that the patient was being treated in the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India. The treatment of the patient included the surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. The patient narrated her ability to manage the psychological stress associated with the cancer treatment. She ascribed it to the positive attitude developed by her practice of the Rajyoga meditation from last 15 years. Rajyoga involved the daily meditation and regular listening to the specified commentary recommended by BK. Patient’s health remains stable during the whole treatment process as analyzed by the mammography, histopathology and PET scan. The patient was also able to maintain the total body weight, biochemical and hematological profile within normal physiological range. The present case study is an attempt to provide Rajyoga as supportive means to the maintenance of patient’s biochemical and hematological profile, and overall general health during breast cancer treatment.
Effects of machinery trafficking in an agricultural soil assessed by Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT)
Authors: García-Tomillo Aitor , Figueiredo Tomás de , Dafonte Jorge Dafonte , Almeida Arlindo , Paz-González Antonio
Published: November 2018

Soil compaction is a serious problem, which is aggravated due to its difficulty to locate and reverse. Electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) is a non-invasive geophysical method that can be used to identify compacted areas, soil horizon thickness and assess soil physical properties. This study assesses the relationship between ERT and soil compaction. Data were collected on a 4-m transect in a fallow plot located at Braganca (Portugal). Measurements were performed before and after tillage and tractor passage. Soil samples at different depths (0-0.05, 0.05-0.1 and 0.1-0.2 m depth) were taken to determine: soil bulk density, porosity, saturated hydraulic conductivity and soil water content. The effect of tillage and tractor passage was more significant on the first 0.05 m depth. In the wheel track areas, ERT suffered a reduction of about 40%, saturated hydraulic conductivity decreased by 70% and bulk density increased by 24%. These results proved that ERT can be a useful tool for assessing soil compaction.
Mögliche Dialektmerkmale in den Personennamen des Mittleren Reiches
Authors: Ilin-Tomich Alexander
Published: November 2018

The paper discusses three irregularities in the regional distribution of personal names in Middle Kingdom sources, which may be linked to regional language varieties. One feature, the sound change , occurs predominantly in sources from the Memphis-Faiyum region. The two other features, the use of the negative word and the possessive prefix , are confined to Theban and Southern Upper Egyptian sources. The latter two features become standard in Late Egyptian; thus, the evidence presented in the paper contributes to the discussion on the possible dialectal status of Late Egyptian during the Middle Kingdom.
Fall Risk and Utilization of Balance Training for Adults With Symptomatic Knee Osteoarthritis: Secondary Analysis From a Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Anderson Monica L. , Allen Kelli D. , Golightly Yvonne M. , Arbeeva Liubov S. , Goode Adam , Huffman Kim M. , Schwartz Todd A. , Hill Carla H.
Published: November 2018

Background and Purpose:

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a common disease that hinders activity participation in older adults. Associated symptoms and physiological changes can increase risk of falling in individuals with KOA. Balance training can decrease fall risks in older adults. Limited evidence exists regarding utilization of balance training in physical therapy (PT) for this population. This secondary data analysis investigated the proportion of participants at high risk for falling in the PhysicAl THerapy vs. INternet-based Exercise Training for Patients with Osteoarthritis (PATH-IN) study and the frequency with which balance training was utilized as an intervention in PT.

Methods:

PATH-IN study participants (N = 344) performed the Four-Stage Balance Test and the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test during baseline assessment. Participants were randomly allocated to PT, an Internet-based exercise program, or a control group. Participants were classified as being at high risk for falling if they did not progress to the single-leg stance (SLS) during the Four-Stage Balance Test, were unable to maintain SLS for 5 seconds, or took longer than 13.5 seconds to complete the TUG test. The proportion of participants at high risk for falling was calculated for all participants and separately for those allocated to PT. In addition, PT notes were coded for balance training and the frequency of balance training utilization was calculated.

Results and Discussion:

Upon enrollment, 35.5% (N = 122) of all participants and 36.2% (N = 50) of those allocated to PT were at high risk for falling. Of participants allocated to PT with documentation available for coding (N = 118), 35.5% (N = 42) were at high risk for falling. Balance training was provided to 62.7% (N = 74) during at least one PT session. Of those classified as being at high risk for falling, 33.3% (N = 14) did not receive balance training.

Conclusions:

The finding of high fall risks in more than one-third of all participants with KOA is consistent with previous reports of a higher risk of falling in this population. Many PT participants did receive some balance training; however, one-third of participants at high risk for falling did not. Balance training for individuals with KOA at high risk for falling may be underutilized.
Hip Muscle Strengthening for Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review of Literature
Authors: Raghava Neelapala Y. V. , Bhagat Madhura , Shah Purvi
Published: November 2018

Background and Purpose:

Osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee joint results in chronic pain and functional decline among older adults. Hip muscle weakness has been observed in persons with knee OA and is claimed to increase the medial compartment loading on the knee joint. Although individual studies are available, no review has yet integrated the literature on the benefits of hip muscle strengthening for persons with knee OA. This review aims to systematically summarize the current evidence on the effectiveness of hip muscle strengthening on knee pain, lower extremity function, and biomechanical measures of the knee in persons with knee OA.

Methods:

An extensive electronic literature search was conducted in the databases PubMed, Scopus, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health (CINAHL), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) to identify the published trials in the English language from January 1990 to August 2017. Randomized controlled trials that studied the effectiveness of hip muscle strengthening in persons with knee OA on knee pain, physical function, and biomechanical measures of the knee were considered for inclusion. The key word combinations were knee osteoarthritis, degenerative arthritis, arthralgia, muscle strengthening, and resistance training using the Boolean operators AND, OR. Two reviewers independently performed the study selection, and a third reviewer intervened when the consensus was not attained. Quality assessment of the included studies was carried out using the PEDro scale.

Results and Discussion:

The search produced 774 results, from which 81 full-text articles were studied. Five randomized controlled trials of good methodological quality, including 331 participants, were included in the review. The effectiveness of hip muscle strengthening was assessed in isolation, combination, and comparison with other lower extremity exercise. Overall, the studies reported clear benefits of hip muscle strengthening on knee pain, physical function, and hip muscle strength. However, hip muscle strengthening was ineffective in improving the biomechanical measures such as dynamic alignment and knee adduction (also known as valgus) moment.

Conclusion:

The current review identified strong, high-quality evidence to recommend hip muscle strengthening in the conservative management of persons with knee OA. Further research is needed to establish the underlying mechanisms for the clinical benefits.
Reliability, Validity, and Ability to Identity Fall Status of the Berg Balance Scale, Balance Evaluation Systems Test (BESTest), Mini-BESTest, and Brief-BESTest in Older Adults Who Live in Nursing Homes
Authors: Viveiro Larissa Alamino Pereira , Gomes Gisele Cristine Vieira , Bacha Jéssica Maria Ribeiro , Carvas Junior Nelson , Kallas Marina Esteves , Reis Muriel , Jacob Filho Wilson , Pompeu José Eduardo
Published: November 2018

Background and Purpose:

In any given year, 28% to 35% of older adults experience falls. In nursing home environments, the annual rate of falls increases to 30% to 50%. Our objective was to verify and compare the reliability, validity, and ability to identify falls of the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Balance Evaluation Systems Test (BESTest), Mini-BESTest, and Brief-BESTest for older adults who live in nursing homes.

Methods:

This was a cross-sectional study. Older adults (n = 49; aged 62-90 years; mean = 77.8; standard deviation = 7.2) were recruited from a nonprofit nursing home. All participants were assessed by 2 physiotherapists using the BBS, BESTest, Mini-BESTest, and Brief-BESTest. The interrater and test-retest (7-14 days) reliability were assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs [2, 1]). Minimal detectable changes at the 95% confidence level were established. To analyze each test's ability to identify fall status, we used receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, whose statistical significance we verified using the area under the ROC curve (AUC) and respective 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The diagnostic likelihood ratios (positive and negative) and 95% CI were used to verify posttest probability. We used Fagan's nomogram to show the posttest probability of each balance test. Validity was assessed using kappa coefficients and the prevalence-adjusted bias-adjusted kappa (PABAK).

Results:

Interrater and test-retest reliability for the total scores were good to excellent across all 4 tests (ICC interrater value = 0.992-0.994 and ICC test-retest value = 0.886-0.945). All tests were also able to identify fall status (AUC = 0.712-0.762) and were in good agreement with each other (kappa coefficient for individuals with fall risk = 0.679-0.957 and individuals with no fall risk = 0.135-0.143; PABAK = 83.7%-98%).

Conclusion:

All balance tests presented similar reliability, reproducibility, and validity. This suggests that any of these tests can be used in clinical practice. However, the Brief-BESTest is the quickest and easiest test to perform.
Profiling analysis of long non-coding RNA and mRNA in parathyroid carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Xiang , Hu Ya , Wang Mengyi , Zhang Ronghua , Wang PeiPei , Cui Ming , Su Zhe , Gao Xiang , Liao Quan , Zhao Yupei
Published: November 2018

Parathyroid carcinoma (PCa) is a rare endocrine neoplasia that typically has unfavourable outcomes. The contribution of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) to the development of malignant and benign parathyroid tumours remains largely unknown. In this study, we explored transcriptomic profiling of lncRNA and mRNA expression in 6 PCa, 6 parathyroid adenoma (PAd) and 4 normal parathyroid (PaN) tissues. In total, 2641 lncRNA transcripts and 2165 mRNA transcripts were differentially expressed between PCa and PAd. Enrichment analysis demonstrated that dysregulated transcripts were involved mainly in the extracellular matrix (ECM)–receptor interaction and energy metabolism pathways. Bioinformatics analysis suggested that ATF3, ID1, FOXM1, EZH2 and MITF may be crucial to parathyroid carcinogenesis. Series test of cluster analysis segregated differentially expressed lncRNAs and mRNAs into several expression profile models, among which the ‘plateau’ profile representing components specific to parathyroid carcinogenesis was selected to build a co-expression network. Seven lncRNAs and three mRNAs were selected for quantitative RT-PCR validation in 16 PCa, 41 PAd and 4 PaN samples. Receiver-operator characteristic curves analysis showed that lncRNA PVT1 and GLIS2-AS1 yielded the area under the curve values of 0.871 and 0.860, respectively. Higher hybridization signals were observed in PCa for PVT1 and PAd for GLIS2-AS1. In conclusion, the current evidence indicates that PAd and PCa partially share common signalling molecules and pathways, but have independent transcriptional events. Differentially expressed lncRNAs and mRNAs have intricate interactions and are involved in parathyroid tumourigenesis. The lncRNA PVT1 and GLIS2-AS1 may be new potential markers for the diagnosis of PCa.
Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome Due to Maternal Kratom Use
Authors: Eldridge Whitney B. , Foster Cherie , Wyble Lance
Published: November 2018

Neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) is increasing in incidence and most commonly associated with maternal opioid use during pregnancy. Nonopioid alternatives to treat opioid dependence are highly sought after in the country’s current opioid epidemic. Whether Kratom, a legal, widely available herbal supplement, should be classified as an opioid is contentious. Although the US Food and Drug Administration has recently addressed this controversy, Kratom continues to be marketed as a nonopioid remedy for opioid withdrawal. Its use is increasing in the United States. We describe an infant with NAS born to a mother with daily Kratom tea ingestion to self-treat opioid dependence. Pediatricians and parents should be aware of the risk of NAS due to Kratom use during pregnancy.
High rate of colistin and fosfomycin resistance among carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae in Turkey
Authors: Süzük Yıldız Serap , Kaşkatepe Banu , Şimşek Hüsniye , Sarıgüzel Fatma Mutlu
Published: November 2018

When the problem with carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) increases, the older antimicrobial agents such as colistin and fosfomycin are used for the treatment of these infections. In this study, the broth microdilution method for colistin and the agar dilution method for fosfomycin were used for a total of 147 multidrug-resistant (MDR) or extensively drug-resistant (XDR) strains of CRE. The study included Klebsiella pneumoniae (91.16%), Escherichia coli (7.48%), Enterobacter cloacae (0.68%), and Serratia marcescens (0.68%). All these strains produce various types of carbapenemase, including OXA-48, NDM, and KPC. Some of these strains also have three different carbapenemase mechanisms, including OXA-48 (78.23%), NDM (2.04%), and KPC (0.68%) or OXA-48 and NDM (10.88%), or OXA-48 and KPC (0.68%). About 76.19% of the strains and 67.35% of the strains were resistant for colistin and fosfomycin, respectively. A total of 21 out of 35 colistin-susceptible strains were found to be susceptible to fosfomycin. This study showed that the resistance rates of colistin and fosfomycin are high. The MDR and XDR strains of CRE are spreading in our region and thus a monitoring system for CRE should be followed. Moreover, the applicability of antimicrobial stewardship programs should be increased in all inpatient and outpatient settings.
Emergence of blaVEB and blaGES among VIM-producing Pseudomonas aeruginosa clinical isolates in Alexandria, Egypt
Authors: Gaballah Ahmed , Elbaradei Amira , Elsheredy Amel , Kader Ola
Published: November 2018

Thirty-three Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates, resistant to one or more β-lactams, were included in this study. Identification of tested strains was confirmed using MALDI-TOF/MS. Phenotypic and genotypic β-lactamase patterns were investigated. Most of the isolates were resistant to carbapenems (32 out of 33) and to the extended-spectrum cephalosporins (ESC) (30 out of 33). Phenotypically, the production of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL), metallo-β-lactamases (MBL), and carbapenemases was detected in 10, 23, and 9 isolates, respectively. However, AmpC hyperproduction was not phenotypically detected among all isolates. Genotypically, ESBL and MBL encoding genes were detected in 23 and 27 isolates, respectively. Altogether 27 strains were detected as blaVIM positive and 16 strains carried blaOXA-10 gene. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of P. aeruginosa clinical isolates harboring blaVEB together with blaGES in Egypt, where 5 of our 30 ESC-resistant isolates showed this genotype. Our results confirmed that resistance of P. aeruginosa isolates to β-lactam antibiotics is mediated via multiple β-lactamases belonging to different molecular classes. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of blaVEB among P. aeruginosa clinical isolates from Egypt. Ten isolates harbored blaVEB and five of them co-harbored blaVEB together with blaGES, blaVIM, and blaOXA-10.
Chinese discourse and interaction: Theory and practice. By Yuling Pan and Dániel Z. Kádár (eds.)
Authors: Vargas-Urpi Mireia
Published: November 2018

Chinese discourse and interaction: Theory and practiceYuling Pan and Dániel Z. Kádár (eds.) (2013)London: Equinox Publishing. Pp. 326ISBN: 978-1-84553-632-9
Conversational history revisited
Authors: Golopenția Sanda
Published: November 2018

A conversational history is the set of conversations that took place between at least two persons over a certain amount of time. Conversational histories can be open or closed. They represent the essential way in which we build our social relations and consist of initial, median and final conversational episodes, which can be explicit or internal, real or fictional. Each of the conversations they contain can be partially explained in terms of the conversational episodes preceding it and viewed as paving the way for future conversational developments. The internal median conversational episodes, which are only made visible to us in literature and, at times, in psychological research, correspond to the mental work by means of which each of the partners of a conversational history reexamines and connects previous conversations or plans for the next one.
The use of glucan-containing grain materials in the technology of foam-like pastries
Authors: Iorgachova К. , Makarova O. , Kotuzaki O. , Avetisіan K.
Published: November 2018

This article shows the prospects of using glucan-containing cereal grain materials in the production of baked goods. The results of the research are presented of how oat and barley flours and the method and stage of adding them effect on the quality of foam-like dough and semi-finished sponge-cakes. During the research, these types of flour were introduced at two stages: while churning the mixture of sugar and eggs, after wetting them and replacing part of the mélange (15%, 25%, 35%) with flour-water mixtures with the equivalent amount of dry substance, and while making the dough (mixed with 25%, 50%, and 75% of wheat flour). It has been determined that replacing mélange with oat and barley flour-water mixtures results in an increase in the viscosity of the dough due to the increased content of starch polysaccharides in it, which helps stabilize its structure, and allows obtaining dough with the required moisture and density. It has been demonstrated that replacing up to 25% of mélange with these types of flour mixes is followed by increased porosity of the sponge cakes. The specific volume of the samples with 15% of mélange replaced with the oat flour-water, and 25% with the barley flour-water mixture increased by 5–7% on average compared to the control sample. In the further research, to increase significantly the nutritional value of baked goods, these mixtures, besides being used to replace the mélange, were also introduced at the stage of making the dough (mixed with wheat flour). It has been established that the high quality of sponge cakes (determined by their porosity and specific volume) is achieved in the presence of up to 50% of oat or barley flour in the mixture.
REGULATORY T CELLS IN FOLLICULAR FLUID OF WOMEN UNDERGOING IVF TREATMENT
Authors: Andreeva E. A. , Khonina N. A. , Tikhonova M. A. , Batorov E. V. , Pasman N. M. , Chernykh E. R.
Published: November 2018

The aim of the study was to evaluate FoxP3+ regulatory T cell (Тreg) subsets in the follicular fluid (FF) of the women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF), and their relationships with features of folliculogenesis and oogenesis, as well as quality of embryos and retrospective assessment of IVF outcomes. The study included 53 women at the age of 25 to 46 years stimulated by superovulation. The count of Tregs in the FF samples was determined by flow cytometry using appropriate monoclonal antibodies. The FF examination revealed of FoxP3+ T cells from both CD4+ (CD4+FoxP3+) and CD4(CD4-FoxP3+) T lymphocyte subsets. Moreover, the FoxP3+ cells were registered in CD4+CD25+ and CD4+CD25T lymphocyte subsets. Follicular fluid of women with a relatively small number of follicles contained higher numbers of CD4+CD25-FoxP3+ T cells, whereas a reduced number of oocytes was associated with the highest count of CD4-FoxP3+ T cells in FF. Retrospective analysis showed the a relationship between percentage of Tregs, and quality of oocytes and embryos. High fertilization index (0.75-1.0), reflecting maturity of the oocytes was associated with higher count of CD4-FoxP3+ T cells in the FF. Better quality of blastocysts was associated with a higher count of both CD4-FoxP3+ and CD4+FoxP3+ T cells. Onset and progression of pregnancies was also registered in women with relatively high counts of CD4-FoxP3+ T cells. The obtained data showed presence of different FoxP3+ T cell subtypes in follicular fluid, and its possible role in controlling early stages of reproductive process. CD4-FoxP3+ T cells seem to be the most important subpopulation; their counts are associated with efficacy of oogenesis, blastulation and pregnancy occurence.
A LINK BETWEEN ACTIVE MYELOPEROXIDASE AND CHLORINATED CERULOPLASMIN IN BLOOD PLASMA OF PATIENTS WITH CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES
Authors: Sokolov A. V. , Kostevich V. A. , Gorbunov N. V. , Grigorieva D. V. , Gorudko I. V. , Vasilyev V. B. , Panasenko O. M.
Published: November 2018

Myeloperoxidase is a key factor promoting development of halogenative/oxidative stress under inflammatory conditions. Previously, we have discovered complexes including myeloperoxidase and its physiological inhibitor, ceruloplasmin in blood plasma of patients with inflammatory diseases of different etiology, e.g., atherosclerosis. Studies on regulation of myeloperoxidase activity by ceruloplasmin have shown that hypochlorous acid, a specific product of myeloperoxidase action, is likely to modify ceruloplasmin during inflammation. The present study was aimed for analysis of relationships between the myeloperoxidase activity, native, and HOCl-modified ceruloplasmin levels in blood plasma samples of the patients with cardiovascular diseases.

Specific antibodies against myeloperoxidase, ceruloplasmin, and HOCl-modified ceruloplasmin were obtained and specific enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) were developed. A combination of highly sensitive methods of myeloperoxidase assay i.e., solid-phase adsorption of antigens with subsequent testing of either their activity, or peroxidase-labeled antibody activity allowed elaborating the highly sensitive assays for ceruloplasmin and its HOCl-modified molecules, and for myeloperoxidase (concentration, peroxidase and halogenating activity). Positive correlation was proven between the myeloperoxidase concentration and activities. HOCl-modified ceruloplasmin content also correlated with myeloperoxidase activity.

The HOCl-modified ceruloplasmin was first discovered in blood plasma samples from patients with cardiovascular diseases. In view of correlation between myeloperoxidase activity and HOCl-modified ceruloplasmin content in plasma, we suggest that HOCl production is aimed for suppression of myeloperoxidaseinhibitory function of ceruloplasmin.
Avaliação genética do crescimento de bovinos Nelore Mocho, por meio de modelos de multicaracterísticas
Authors: Barros Isabella Coutinho de , Mota Rodrigo Reis , Silva Luciano Pinheiro da , Carneiro Paulo Luiz Souza , Martins Filho Raimundo , Malhado Carlos Henrique Mendes
Published: November 2018

RESUMO Objetivou-se, com este trabalho, estimar parâmetros genéticos para características do crescimento de animais da raça Nelore Mocho. Foram utilizados pesos corporais (Kg) ajustados aos 205 (P205), 365 (P365) e 550 (P550) dias. Adotou-se modelo multicaraterísticas ajustado para o efeito fixo dos grupos de contemporâneos, idade da vaca ao parto (covariável) e, para os efeitos aleatórios genético direto, genético materno, ambiente permanente materno e residual. As variâncias genéticas diretas (98,80, 276,38 e 547,52 Kg2) e maternas (61,77, 64,63 e 79,85 Kg2), elevaram-se com o avanço das idades. Observou-se redução das variâncias de ambiente permanente materno de P205 para P365 e aumento para P550. As herdabilidades diretas, e seus erros padrão, para P205, P365 e P550 foram respectivamente de 0,21 ± 0,01; 0,38 ± 0,00 e 0,39 ± 0,00. As herdabilidades maternas foram maiores no início da vida dos animais (0,13 ± 0,01, 0,08 ± 0,00 e 0,05 ± 0,00). As correlações genéticas diretas foram superiores a 0,94. As correlações fenotípicas apresentaram valores de moderados a altos (0,50 a 0,87). As correlações genéticas maternas e de ambiente permanente materno foram superiores a 0,91. Ganhos genéticos são esperados, ao se usarem as características do crescimento como critérios de seleção. A existência de variabilidade genética permite a seleção em idades menores, possibilitando a redução do intervalo de gerações e aumento do ganho genético.