bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Congenital abnormalities and arthrogryposis in newly born lambs in Al Muthanna province Iraq. Suspicion of Akabane virus infection
Authors: Al Salihi Karima Akool , Al-Dabhawi Ahmed Hameed
Published: November 2019

Akabane virus, a member of the Orthobunyavirus genus in the family Bunyaviridae, causes congenital abnormalities and arthrogryposis with hydrocephalus or hydroencephaly in ruminants. Tis study intends to describe the clinical signs, gross and histopathological features seen in 25 afected lambs in an outbreak of congenital arthrogryposis with hydrocephalus or hydranencephaly in Al-Muthanna governorate, Iraq afer a large number of stillbirths and musculoskeletal deformities from October 2017 to May 2018. Skeletal muscle hypoplasia was seen in the limbs of the afected lambs accompanied with severe arthrogryposis and gross visible brain malformations. In addition, fetal mummifcations, stillbirths, and dead lambs were also seen. Te most histopathological features in muscle fbers were degenerative lesions and absences of cross-striation accompanied with mild infltration of neutrophils and mononuclear cells in severely afected lambs. Te meninges of afected lambs revealed fused membranes with focal areas of fbrous thickenings and necrotic debris. In conclusion, according to clinical signs, gross and histopathological investigations, Akabane virus, a member of the Orthobunyavirus genus in the family Bunyaviridae, causes congenital abnormalities and arthrogryposis with hydrocephalus or hydroencephaly in ruminants and could be the cause of this outbreak, although future studies must be performed to confrm the etiology of this outbreak. Moreover, other causes of hydrocephalus or cerebellar malformation, such as Schmallenberg virus, bluetongue virus and border disease virus and teratogenic plants that lead to arthrogryposis, have to be investigated. Also, the authorities should take prevention and control measurements to stop the replication of arthropod vectors.
Comparison of estradiol benzoate and cypionate in Girolando cows submitted to a timed artificial insemination
Authors: Silva Otávia Reis , Mello Marco Roberto Bourg de , Silenciato Lara Nogueira , Ferreira Joaquim Esquerdo , Couto Samuel Rodrigues Bonamichi do , Fajardo Rosane Scatamburlo Lizieire , Resende Osvaldo De Almeida
Published: November 2019

The various studies on the manipulation of the estrous cycle culminated in the development of estrous and ovulation synchronization protocols, to the point of defining an optimum moment for artificial insemination. The induction of ovulation is a primordial part for the determination of the moment of the TAI, so to study which hormones and how they behave allows a better understanding of this physiological process and, to manipulate it efficiently. The aim of the present study was to compare the use of estradiol benzoate (EB) and cypionate (ECP) as ovulation inducer in Girolando cows submitted to Timed Artificial Insemination (TAI). Ovulations of 108 Girolando cows were synchronized and the initial day of treatment, recorded as D0, which was when the animals received an intravaginal device containing 1g of progestogen and an intramuscular application (im) of 2mg of EB. After 8 days (D8), the device was removed and 500μg of cloprostenol (im) was administered to all females. Then, the animals were randomly divided into two treatments: BG Group (n = 52) and CG Group (n = 56). The CG animals received 1mg of ECP (im) as the ovulation inducer at the time of device removal, while BG Group cows received 1mg of EB (im) 24 h later (D9). TAI occurred at D10. After device removal, ultrasound evaluations were performed every 12 h up to ovulation. The following reproductive parameters were evaluated: interval from intravaginal device removal to ovulation - IDO (hours); interval from ovulation to TAI-IOT (hours); diameter of the largest follicle at intravaginal device removal (mm); maximum diameter of the DF (mm) at D10; the dominant follicle growth rate (mm/day); synchronization rate - SR (%); ovulation rate - OR (%) and PR - pregnancy rate (%). Only the ovulation rate presented a statistical difference (p<0.05). In conclusion, despite the ovulation rate difference, both estradiol esters administered were effective and presented similar pregnancy rates in Girolando cows submitted to TAI.
Mandibular foramen location
Authors: Salineiro Fernanda Cristina Sales , Kobayashi-Velasco Solange , Tortamano Isabel Peixoto , Rocha Rodney Garcia , Cavalcanti Marcelo Gusmão Paraiso
Published: November 2019

Objective: This study proposed to locate the mandibular foramen position by using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging, based on landmarks used at inferior alveolar nerve block (IANB) technique in order to increase the success rate of this procedure. Materials and methods: 58 mandibular foramina of 29 adult patients were evaluated. Linear and angular CBCT measurements were defined for the mandibular foramen based on the IANB technique. The measurements were performed by two radiologists. Data analyses consisted of verifying the normality, obtaining the mean value of all patients and comparing the data obtained between male and female patients. Results: Student’s t and Mann-Whitney’s U tests were used to calculate the mean mandibular foramen position. The three mean position measurements of the mandibular foramen were 13.5 mm above the occlusal plan (15.5 mm for male and 11.7 mm for female patients), 14.6 mm below the mandibular notch (14.9 mm for male and 13.7 mm for female patients) and 14.2 mm from the anterior border of mandibular ramus (14.6 mm for male and 13.8 mm for female patients). The angle formed by the molar lines and contralateral premolar lines was 25.8° and the angle formed by the molar lines and contralateral second premolar/molar lines was 31.5°. Conclusion: CBCT images were a useful method to provide the measurements of the mandibular foramen position based on landmarks used by the IANB technique. We encourage the use of these measurements as reference to increase the clinical success when performing the IANB technique.
VAT Notches, Voluntary Registration, and Bunching: Theory and U.K. Evidence
Authors: Liu Li , Lockwood Ben , Almunia Miguel , Tam Eddy H. F.
Published: November 2019

Using administrative tax records for U.K. businesses, we document both bunching in annual turnover below the VAT registration threshold and persistent voluntary registration by almost half of the firms below the threshold. We develop a conceptual framework that can simultaneously explain these two apparently conflicting facts. The framework also predicts that higher intermediate input shares, lower product-market competition, and a lower share of business to consumer sales lead to voluntary registration. The predictions are exactly the opposite for bunching. We test the theory using linked VAT and corporation tax records from 2004 to 2014, finding empirical support for these predictions.
Does energy efficiency affect economic growth? Evidence from aggregate and disaggregate levels
Authors: Go You-How , Lau Lin-Sea , Yii Kwang-Jing , Lau Wee-Yeap
Published: November 2019

This paper empirically examines the relationship between energy efficiency, CO2 emissions, foreign direct investment, exports, and real gross domestic product at both aggregate and disaggregate levels in Malaysia based on an autoregressive distributed lag approach. The annual data for the period of 1971–2013 are employed. The results indicate that energy efficiency Granger causes economic growth at the aggregate level, but not in each of the three main sectors (primary, secondary, and tertiary) of the economy. Another important finding of the study is that the export-led growth hypothesis is found to be valid in Malaysia at both the aggregate and disaggregate levels. The results of our study also confirm the fact that CO2 emissions do affect the overall economic performance and growth in all sectors, except for the primary sector. This finding implies that pollution from both secondary and tertiary sectors has led to economic growth in Malaysia. Moreover, it is also discovered that foreign direct investment does not have a significant impact on economic growth in Malaysia. The results of this study are essential for policymakers of Malaysia in designing appropriate policies in each sector that can lead to robust growth in the country. In addition to focusing on enhancing energy efficiency and promoting foreign direct investment, the policymakers should also start to look for alternative strategies to ensure long-term economic growth in the country.
Financial investment for the development of renewable energy capacity
Authors: Lee Taedong
Published: November 2019

While the renewable energy sector, in general, is increasingly gaining ground with regard to energy mix, the electricity generation capacity from renewable energy sources varies from country to country. This study aims to examine the driving factors and the obstacles that explain the variation in the renewable energy generation capacities. A panel data analysis of the World’s leading economies (18 countries out of G-20 countries) from 2009 to 2013 assesses the association between installed renewable energy generation capacity and its drivers. The findings of this study suggest that financial investment from public and private sector is crucial to enhancing renewable energy generation capacity in leading economies. In addition to regulation and economic incentive policies, policies that ensure financial investment such as investment risk reduction measures can facilitate renewable energy capacity growth.
Nobody Likes Me, Everybody Hates Me (Worms)
Authors: Baggett Hannah Carson
Published: November 2019

In a series of vignettes, I write my interactions with high school students within and against a public, alternative school. Drawing simultaneously from conceptual spaces of metaphor, critical studies of Whiteness, and posthumanist mangling, these vignettes illustrate how we might find moments of pedagogical joy amid hostile and constrained educative spaces. What follows is an attempt to blend critical and post-perspectives to approach “a fluid methodological space where data, theories, methods, and research approaches melt, transform, circumvent, infiltrate, appear, and disappear.”
Decomposition kinetics and lifetime estimation of natural fiber reinforced composites: Influence of plasma treatment and fiber type
Authors: Enciso B , Abenojar J , Aparicio GM , Martínez MA
Published: November 2019

In this study, two different natural fiber reinforced composites were characterized from the point of view of decomposition kinetics comparing two kinetic models, Kissinger and model-free kinetics, in order to estimate the lifetime of composites. Composite materials were prepared with low-density polyethylene as matrix and plasma-treated and untreated natural fibers were used as reinforcements, in two different amounts (20 and 30 wt%). Composites were manufactured using a rotor mixer and a hot plate press. Afterwards, a thermogravimetric analysis was carried out for each material at six different heating rates (5, 7, 10, 13, 15, and 20°C/min) with a coupled mass spectrometry device to identify released elements in a specific temperature range. The influence of the low-pressure plasma treatment, as well as the fiber type, was taken into account to evaluate the activation energy of the decomposition processes of each material. Besides, lifetime was estimated from the obtained decomposition energies and the Toop equation. It was found that plasma treatment does not have a meaningful influence on decomposition kinetics, but the main composition of the natural fibers is decisive in this aspect, giving rise to much longer lifetimes when the cellulose content of the fiber is higher.
Academic rigor in Christian schools: The academic effect of Bible courses and integration of faith and learning in secondary education
Authors: Horner Jeffrey M
Published: November 2019

This study analyzes the correlation between required years of Bible courses and academic rigor at select private Christian schools. These findings, derived from the author’s doctoral research, show a threshold of under 4 years of required Bible courses for optimal academic perception among these schools. This threshold correlates with a medium to strong effect size and demonstrates a tension between academic strength and integration of faith and learning. This finding calls attention to Christian schools’ need to examine their priorities as both Christian and academic institutions. Theological and practical implications include extensions of the doctrine of sovereignty and curricular design.
Comparison of a video versus paper questionnaire on functional limitation in lower limb osteoarthritis
Authors: Dubouis L. , Ngueyon-Sime W. , Peter W. , Vallata A. , Epstein J. , Rat A-C. , Agrinier N. , Terwee C. B. , Guillemin F.
Published: November 2019

Introduction

The video Animated Activity Questionnaire (AAQ) was developed to assess the impact of lower limb osteoarthritis (OA) on daily functional activities. The objective of the study was to compare the video and the HOOS/KOOS paper questionnaires and to assess the effect of order of administration.

Material and methods

Patients recruited in the KHOALA cohort were randomized in two groups: AAQ questionnaire first (AAQ-first group) and HOOS (hip)/KOOS (knee) questionnaire first (H/KOOS-first group). Within group differences between AAQ and HOOS/KOOS scores were compared using a Student t-test. The Spearman correlation coefficient between AAQ score and HOOS/KOOS score was calculated in each group then compared, using Fisher z-transformation.

Results

Among 200 randomized patients, 188 (65.8 years, 66.0% women) completed the questionnaires: 99 in the AAQ-first group and 89 in the H/KOOS-first group. The AAQ score was 85.9 (SD: 13.7) in the AAQ-first versus 87.8 (SD: 13.1) in the H/KOOS-first group (p = 0.34). The H/KOOS score was 72.5 (SD: 21.2) in the AAQ-first versus 73.5 (SD: 18.4) in the H/KOOS-first group (p = 0.71). The Spearman correlation coefficient between AAQ and H/KOOS in the AAQ-first was 0.84[0.77–0.89] and 0.73[0.61–0.81] in H/KOOS-first group. These correlations differed between groups significantly (p = 0.02).

Conclusion

This study found video AAQ and paper HOOS/KOOS questionnaire highly correlated, with a moderate but significant effect of order administration of video and paper questionnaires evidencing a stronger correlation when the videos were viewed first.
Introduction the revolving scarf osteotomy for treating severe hallux valgus with an increased distal metatarsal articular angle: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Wang Xinwen , Wen Qian , Li Yi , Liu Cheng , Zhao Kai , Zhao Hongmou , Liang Xiaojun
Published: November 2019

Background

Hallux valgus(HV) with an increased distal metatarsal articular angle (DMAA) is one of the most common foot deformities among adults. Double metatarsal osteotomy (DMO) is effective in treating severe HV deformity with an increased DMAA. However, this technique presents the risk of avascular necrosis (AVN) of the metatarsal head and transfer metatarsalgia due to shortening of the first metatarsal. The aim of this study was to introduce a surgical procedure defined as revolving scarf osteotomy (RSO) and compare the clinical and radiological results of RSO and DMO performed for treating severe HV with an increased DMAA.

Methods

First metatarsal osteotomies and Akin osteotomy were performed in 56 patients (62 ft) with severe HV with an increased DMAA in Honghui Hospital from January 2015 to December 2017. RSO was performed in 32 ft and DMO was performed in 30 ft. The Akin osteotomy was performed in both groups. The American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, visual analogue scale (VAS) score, the hallux valgus angle (HVA), intermetatarsal angle (IMA), DMAA, and first metatarsal length (FML) and the rates of complications were compared preoperatively and postoperatively in the two groups.

Results

The mean AOFAS score, VAS score, HVA, IMA, and DMAA showed significant improvements in both groups after surgery, but with no significant differences between the two groups. The postoperative FML was significantly larger in the RSO group than in the DMO group (p < 0.001). One of the 30 ft (3.3%) in the DMO group exhibited transfer metatarsalgia at 12 months postoperatively, while another foot (3.3%) in same group had avascular necrosis of the metatarsal head. One of the 30 ft (3.1%) in the RSO group had hallux varus.

Conclusions

No differences in the clinical and radiographic results were observed between the two groups with severe HV and an increased DMAA. However, RSO does not cause shortening of the metatarsal and AVN of the metatarsal head. A long-term, randomized, controlled prospective study with a larger sample would provide higher-level evidence for confirming the clinical efficacy and safety of RSO.
Technology-assisted rehabilitation following total knee or hip replacement for people with osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Xia , Hunter David J. , Vesentini Giovana , Pozzobon Daniel , Ferreira Manuela L.
Published: November 2019

Background

To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of technology-assisted rehabilitation following total hip/knee replacement (THR/TKR).

Methods

Six electronic databases were searched without language or time restrictions for relevant studies: MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus, Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro); from inception to November 7th, 2018. Two reviewers independently applied inclusion criteria to select eligible randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that investigated the effectiveness of technology-based interventions, compared with usual care or no intervention for people undergoing THR/TKR. Two reviewers independently extracted trial details (e.g. patients’ profile, intervention, outcomes, attrition and adverse events). Study methodological quality was assessed using the PEDro scale. Quality of evidence was critically appraised using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach.

Results

We identified 21 eligible studies assessing telerehabilitation, game- or web-based therapy. There were 17 studies (N = 2188) in post-TKR rehabilitation and 4 studies (N = 783) in post-THR rehabilitation. Compared to usual care, technology-based intervention was more effective in reducing pain (mean difference (MD): − 0.25; 95% confidence interval (CI): − 0.48, − 0.02; moderate evidence) and improving function measured with the timed up-and-go test (MD: -7.03; 95% CI: − 11.18, − 2.88) in people undergoing TKR. No between-group differences were observed in rates of hospital readmissions or treatment-related adverse events (AEs) in those studies.

Conclusion

There is moderate-quality of evidence showed technology-assisted rehabilitation, in particular, telerehabilitation, results in a statistically significant improvement in pain; and low-quality of evidence for the improvement in functional mobility in people undergoing TKR. The effects were however too small to be clinically significant. For THR, there is very limited low-quality evidence shows no significant effects.
Exosomes derived from statin-modified bone marrow dendritic cells increase thymus-derived natural regulatory T cells in experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis
Authors: Zhang Peng , Liu Ru-Tao , Du Tong , Yang Chun-Lin , Liu Yu-Dong , Ge Meng-Ru , Zhang Min , Li Xiao-Li , Li Heng , Dou Ying-Chun , Duan Rui-Sheng
Published: November 2019

Background

The thymus plays an essential role in the pathogenesis of myasthenia gravis (MG). In patients with MG, natural regulatory T cells (nTreg), a subpopulation of T cells that maintain tolerance to self-antigens, are severely impaired in the thymuses. In our previous study, upregulated nTreg cells were observed in the thymuses of rats in experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis after treatment with exosomes derived from statin-modified dendritic cells (statin-Dex).

Methods

We evaluated the effects of exosomes on surface co-stimulation markers and Aire expression of different kinds of thymic stromal cells, including cTEC, mTEC, and tDCs, in EAMG rats. The isolated exosomes were examined by western blot and DLS. Immunofluorescence was used to track the exosomes in the thymus. Flow cytometry and western blot were used to analyze the expression of co-stimulatory molecules and Aire in vivo and in vitro.

Results

We confirmed the effects of statin-Dex in inducing Foxp3+ nTreg cells and found that both statin-Dex and DMSO-Dex could upregulate CD40 but only statin-Dex increased Aire expression in thymic stromal cells in vivo. Furthermore, we found that the role of statin-Dex and DMSO-Dex in the induction of Foxp3+ nTreg cells was dependent on epithelial cells in vitro.

Conclusions

We demonstrated that statin-Dex increased expression of Aire in the thymus, which may further promote the Foxp3 expression in the thymus. These findings may provide a new strategy for the treatment of myasthenia gravis.
Development, progress and future prospects in cryobiotechnology of Lilium spp.
Authors: Li Jing-Wei , Zhang Xiao-Chen , Wang Min-Rui , Bi Wen-Lu , Faisal M. , da Silva Jaime A. Teixeira , Volk Gayle M. , Wang Qiao-Chun
Published: November 2019

Lilium is one of the most popular flower crops worldwide, and some species are also used as vegetables and medicines. The availability of and easy access to diverse Lilium genetic resources are essential for plant genetic improvements. Cryopreservation is currently considered as an ideal means for the long-term preservation of plant germplasm. Over the last two decades, great efforts have been exerted in studies of Lilium cryopreservation and progress has been made in the successful cryopreservation of pollen, seeds and shoot tips in Lilium. Genes that exist in Lilium, including those that regulate flower shape, color and size, and that are resistant to cold stress and diseases caused by fungi and viruses, provide a rich source of valuable genetic resources for breeding programs to create novel cultivars required by the global floriculture and ornamental markets. Successful cryopreservation of Lilium spp. is a way to preserve these valuable genes. The present study provides updated and comprehensive information about the development of techniques that have advanced Lilium cryopreservation. Further ideas are proposed to better direct future studies on Lilium cryobiotechnology.
CRY arrests Cop1 to regulate circadian rhythms in mammals
Authors: Lee Choogon
Published: November 2019

Cryptochromes (CRYs) are UVA and blue light photoreceptors present in all major evolutionary lineages ranging from cyanobacteria to plants and animals, including mammals. In plants, blue light activates CRYs to induce photomorphogenesis by inhibiting the CRL4Cop1 E3 ligase complex which regulates the degradation of critical transcription factors involved in plant development and growth. However, in mammals, CRYs do not physically interact with Cop1, and of course mammals are not photomorphogenic, leading to the belief that the CRY–Cop1 axis is not conserved in mammals. This belief was recently overturned by Rizzini et al., who showed that although mammalian CRYs do not inhibit Cop1 activity in a light-dependent manner, they antagonize Cop1 activity by displacing Cop1 from CRL4 E3 ligase complex. Because CRYs oscillate, they act in a circadian manner resulting in daily oscillations in Cop1 substrates and the downstream pathways that they regulate. The conserved antagonism of Cop1 by CRY indicates that the CRY–Cop1 axis has an ancient origin, and was repurposed by evolution to regulate photomorphogenesis in plants and circadian rhythms in mammals.
iPBAvizu: a PyMOL plugin for an efficient 3D protein structure superimposition approach
Authors: Faure Guilhem , Joseph Agnel Praveen , Craveur Pierrick , Narwani Tarun J. , Srinivasan Narayanaswamy , Gelly Jean-Christophe , Rebehmed Joseph , de Brevern Alexandre G.
Published: November 2019

Background

Protein 3D structure is the support of its function. Comparison of 3D protein structures provides insight on their evolution and their functional specificities and can be done efficiently via protein structure superimposition analysis. Multiple approaches have been developed to perform such task and are often based on structural superimposition deduced from sequence alignment, which does not take into account structural features. Our methodology is based on the use of a Structural Alphabet (SA), i.e. a library of 3D local protein prototypes able to approximate protein backbone. The interest of a SA is to translate into 1D sequences into the 3D structures.

Results

We used Protein blocks (PB), a widely used SA consisting of 16 prototypes, each representing a conformation of the pentapeptide skeleton defined in terms of dihedral angles. Proteins are described using PB from which we have previously developed a sequence alignment procedure based on dynamic programming with a dedicated PB Substitution Matrix. We improved the procedure with a specific two-step search: (i) very similar regions are selected using very high weights and aligned, and (ii) the alignment is completed (if possible) with less stringent parameters. Our approach, iPBA, has shown to perform better than other available tools in benchmark tests. To facilitate the usage of iPBA, we designed and implemented iPBAvizu, a plugin for PyMOL that allows users to run iPBA in an easy way and analyse protein superimpositions.

Conclusions

iPBAvizu is an implementation of iPBA within the well-known and widely used PyMOL software. iPBAvizu enables to generate iPBA alignments, create and interactively explore structural superimposition, and assess the quality of the protein alignments.
Research of a complex fire-induced pollution on the marble relief from the Pushkin state museum of fine arts collection
Authors: Pozhidaev V. M. , Retivov V. M. , Kamaev A. V. , Belus S. K. , Nartov A. S. , Rastorguev V. A. , Borodin I. V. , Tereschenko E. Y. , Sandu R. A. , Yatsishina E. B. , Kovalchuk M. V.
Published: November 2019

Background

Fundamental restoration of sculptures must include the research of pollution composition and exhibit surface condition as well as accurate identification of the materials of sculptures, bas-reliefs and coatings. In the recent years, studies of marble objects aimed at identification of contamination nature and composition have been developed. It should be noted that some exhibits have individual features as objects of restoration due to complex exposure to the environment, e.g. to fire.

Results

The article describes the results of surface contamination study on two exhibits from the Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts collection. Marble relief sculpture “The Flagellation of Christ” was the main object of the study. Glazed terracotta (majolica) “Madonna Friedrichshain” was studied as a control sample with the same type of contaminations but with less sensitive surface. According to the results of different gas chromatography and X-ray fluorescence analyses, pollution compounds were identified as fatty alcohols, fatty acids and esters, part of which being residues of pyrolysis gasification, including those containing iron and lead. In order to gently clean the exhibits, several variants of chemical compounds were proposed based on various chelating agent mixtures, and, after studying their comparative effectiveness, the optimal scheme was chosen for removing existing contamination. For verification of marble exhibits safety, selected cleaning mixtures were tested on polished Carrara marble sample.

Conclusion

The most suitable scheme of organic contaminations removal including those containing iron and lead was suggested as part of restoration process. There is a number of working schemes of cleaning the surface of exhibits, however our proposed scheme interacts with the marble surface more gently because the target cleaning mixture composition was formulated taking into account the nature of pollutants and the least possible impact on the sample surface.
The Impact of Thyroid Function and TPOAb in the First Trimester on Pregnancy Outcomes: A Retrospective Study in Peking
Authors: Zhang Yang , Sun Weijie , Zhu Sainan , Huang Youyuan , Huang Yu , Gao Ying , Zhang Junqing , Yang Huixia , Guo Xiaohui
Published: November 2019

Context

The impact of mild TSH elevation (2.5–4.08 mIU/L) on pregnancy outcomes is unclear. The treatment strategy for mild TSH elevation is dependent on thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb) status according to the guidelines.

Objective

To assess the effects of mild thyroid dysfunction combined with TPOAb status in the first trimester on pregnancy outcomes and the impact of levothyroxine (L-T4) treatment on pregnancy outcomes.

Design

The study retrospectively evaluated 3562 pregnant women. A total of 3296 untreated women were divided into 4 subgroups: group A: 4.08 < TSH <10 mIU/L, TPOAb+/-; group B: 2.5 < TSH ≤ 4.08 mIU/L, TPOAb+; group C: 2.5 < TSH ≤ 4.08 mIU/L, TPOAb–; and group D: 0.23 ≤ TSH ≤ 2.5 mIU/L, TPOAb+/-. The other 266 women with L-T4 treatment were divided into TSH 4.08 to 10 mIU/L and 2.5 to 4.08 mIU/L subgroups.

Setting

The study was conducted at Peking University First Hospital in China.

Patients

A total of 3562 pregnant women were evaluated.

Main Outcome Measures

The incidence of pregnancy outcomes in the untreated subgroups (groups A-D) and treated subgroups were measured.

Results

Miscarriage and maternal composite outcome risks were 3.53 (1.85–6.75) and 2.19 (1.26–3.81) times greater in group A; 1.58 (1.17–2.13) and 1.27 (1.04–1.54) times greater in group C than in group D. L-T4 improved the miscarriage risk in the TSH 4.08 to 10 and 2.5 to 4.08 mIU/L groups but doubled the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus in the TSH 2.5 to 4.08 mIU/L treated group compared with the untreated group.

Conclusions

TSH 2.5 to 4.08 mIU/L combined with TPOAb– during early pregnancy was associated with miscarriages and maternal composite outcomes. The advantages and disadvantages of L-T4 administration in TSH 2.5 to 4.08 mIU/L pregnant women remain uncertain.
Self-compassion, coping with stress and the burnout syndrome among psychotherapists
Authors: Daniel-Sielańczyk Anna , Życińska Jolanta , Bąk-Sosnowska Monika
Published: November 2019

Cel pracy

W zawodzie psychoterapeuty, podobnie jak w innych zawodach pomocowych, istnieje wysokie ryzyko wypalenia zawodowego. Istotne wydaje się zatem znalezienie zasobów zapobiegających temu zjawisku. Jednym z nich, nowym w kontekście wypalenia zawodowego, jest współczucie wobec siebie (self-compassion), które traktuje się jako regulator emocjonalnego radzenia sobie ze stresem. Celem badania była analiza zależności między, współczuciem wobec siebie i stylem radzenia sobie ze stresem a wypaleniem zawodowym oraz ocena znaczenia stylu radzenia sobie ze stresem jako mediatorem pomiędzy współczuciem wobec siebie a wypaleniem zawodowym.

Metoda

Badanie przeprowadzone zostało w grupie 70 psychoterapeutów o średniej wieku 39,56 (SD = 8,18), w większości kobiet (94,3%). W badaniu przekrojowym zastosowano Kwestionariusz Wypalenia Zawodowego (Link Burnout Questionnaire, LBQ), Kwestionariusz Radzenia Sobie w Sytuacjach Stresowych (Coping Inventory for Stressful Situations, CISS) oraz Skróconą Skalę Współczucia Wobec Siebie (Self-Compassion Scale – Short Form).

Wyniki

W badaniu wykazano ujemny związek wyczerpania psychofizycznego oraz rozczarowania jako wymiarów wypalenia zawodowego ze współczuciem wobec siebie oraz dodatni związek rozczarowania ze stylem radzenia sobie skoncentrowanym na emocjach. Ujemny związek dotyczył współczucia wobec siebie i stylu skoncentrowanego na emocjach, brak było zależności w odniesieniu do stylu radzenia sobie skoncentrowanego na zadaniu oraz unikaniu. Analiza mediacji nie wykazała, by styl radzenia sobie ze stresem pośredniczył pomiędzy współczuciem wobec siebie a wypaleniem zawodowym w grupie psychoterapeutów.

Wnioski

Uzyskane wyniki wskazują na to, że rozwijanie współczucia wobec siebie może zapobiegać wypaleniu zawodowemu bez efektu pośredniego radzenia sobie ze stresem.
Catalytically Active Gold Nanoparticles Synthesized using Diabetic Sugar Via Rapid, Simple, Greener Process
Authors: Nurdiani Nurdiani , Foliatini Foliatini
Published: November 2019

Au nanoparticles were successfully synthesized using diabetic sugar as reducing agent, with and without the aid of microwave heating. The hydrolysis of diabetic sugar was carried out using HCl, prior to the synthesis. By adjusting pH of the mixture to basic condition, the formation of the nanoparticles effectively occurred resulting purple colloidal solution. The solution was centrifuged or left overnight to yield precipitate of Au nanoparticles. The as-formed Au nanoparticles were characterized by UV-Vis spectrophotometry, Fourier-Transform infrared spectrophotometry and scanning electron microscopy. The result showed that the Au nanoparticles played a significant role as catalyst for oxidation of methylene blue by H2O2. The kinetics of the oxidation process followed pseudo first order reaction rate with the rate constant depending on the AuNP characteristic and experimental condition.
The Use of Salacca Zalacca Extract as Reducing Agent to Synthesize Silver Nanoparticles (Agnps) and the Antibacterial Activities.
Authors: Sari Lis Permana , Saputro Zuhdi , Utomo Maximus Pranjoto , Prodjosantoso Anti Kolonial
Published: November 2019

In general, leaf, flower, and fruit of plants contain organic compounds which may reduce metal salts to nanosize metals, or nanoparticles (NPs). The extract of snake fruit (Salacca zallaca) has been used to synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using green-one pot method. Some reaction variables ie. incubation time, Salacca zallacca extract concentration, and pH of the mixture of AgNO3 and the extract have been set-up and controlled.
The AgNPs were characterized using UV-Vis, FTIR, XRD, and TEM methods. Testing the antibacterial activity of AgNPs was undertaken using the disk diffusion method by measuring the inhibition zones of Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella typhi bacteria.The AgNPs can be prepared by reducing Ag+ using Salacca zalacca extract as reducing agent. The formation of AgNPs are affected by the incubation time, extract concentration, and pH of the solution. The AgNPs indicate SPR peak absorption at 400-530 nm, and centered cubic (fcc) structures with a particle size of 10 nm. The AgNPs show antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella typhi bacteria.
Quantitative Conductometric Determination of Sitagliptin, Linagliptin, Vildagliptin and Alogliptin by Applying the Concept of Drug-Metal Ion Interaction
Authors: Bratty Mohammed Al- , Murayzin Hatim , Almanaa Adel , Tawhari Mohammed Qasem , Rehman Zia Ur , Alhazmi Hassan A. , Javed Sadique Akhtar , Alam Md Shamsher
Published: November 2019

Cost of analysis and length of analytical procedure are among the most concerning factors in drug analysis. As conductometric analysis has been considered to be relatively inexpensive analytical technique offering fast analysis of drugs, in this study our aim was to develop a rapid and cost-effective method for quantitative determination of sitagliptin, linagliptin, vildagliptin and alogliptin in bulk and dosage forms. The test drugs were allowed to complex with metal ion (Cu2+) in the titration cell, which resulted in the change of conductance of the solution. The corrected conductance was calculated and graph was plotted between corrected conductance and the volume of the analyte solution added. The point of maximum change in the corrected conductance was considered as end point of the titration. The method was found to be linear in the concentration range of 1.0 – 1.4 mM for all analytes with good correlation coefficient (R2 ˃ 0.999). The %RSD of the corrected conductance values were in the range of 0.046-1.837, while the recovery of analytes were within 100 ± 2%, indicating that the method was precise and accurate. The specificity of the method was demonstrated by no interference from blank and placebo. The method was successfully applied for quantitative analysis of all the drugs in the dosage forms. The current method has a major advantage that it provided easy, fast and economical analysis of sitagliptin, linagliptin, vildagliptin and alogliptin in bulk drugs and formulations using conductivity meter.

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Cancer survivors providing care: a call for a new approach
Authors: Puppo Costanza , Dentand Lolane , Leroy Tanguy , Tredan Olivier , Ahmed-Lecheheb Djihane , Joly Florence , Préau Marie
Published: November 2019

The provision of psychosocial care to cancer patients has been explored in detail in the literature. The objective of the present article is to show the need for a methodological approach in exploring the social dimension of care. The study sample comprised 15 ovarian cancer participants in long-term remission, who were included in the ‘Vivrovaire’ study. We employed a qualitative approach based on semi-structured interviews. Results showed that these patients were both recipients and providers of care. We highlighted the importance of a methodological approach that considers care as a dynamic and social process in order to analyse the relational dimension of care.
Fashioning the ‘Performance Man’: Costumes and contexts of Andrey Bartenev
Authors: Vainshtein Olga
Published: November 2019

The article is focused around the work of contemporary Russian artist Andrey Bartenev. Nicknamed the ‘Performance Man’ and the ‘Master of Installations’, Bartenev creates performances, installations, kinetic sculptures, theatrical and video art and flamboyant outfits for himself. The article argues that expressive aesthetics of Bartenev’s performances are connected to the culture of Russian avant-garde. The methodological frame of analysis includes the concept of Bakhtinian grotesque, demonstrating the liberating and subversive potential of carnivalesque culture. Special attention is given to representations of body in Bartenev’s performances. Many of his performances feature a carnival grotesque body: oversized, unnaturally tall, asymmetrical, covered with various bulges. The origin of Bartenev’s individual fashion style is interpreted in the historical context. The article explores Bartenev’s views on the transience of performance, on the role of positive emotions in performances and on environmental pollution and ideas of sustainability.
The queer coat: Konstantin Goncharov’s fashion, Russian masculinity and queer world building
Authors: Strukov Vlad
Published: November 2019

I re-assess Russian sartorial economics of the 1990s by examining fashion by Konstantin Goncharov, who was credited for styling Russian rock stars and making costumes for artistic projects. I focus on the relationship between queer masculinity and sartorial practice. The former relies on a visual code encompassing a range of multi-platform, cross-media strategies and a network of references. The latter refers to a community of individuals engaged in the production of a characteristic style across different sites. The article proposes the concept of queer world-building, which brings together object-oriented and community-oriented practices. Central to Goncharov’s world is ‘the queer coat’, a costume designed for his clientele and a historically grounded metaphor for Russian society. It designates the process of creative re-modelling of pre-Soviet and Soviet aesthetics, producing a complex cultural exchange challenging dominant notions of masculinity. Goncharov’s cross-platform and intermedial work captures the spirit of multi-centric cultural activity of the 1990s.
The negotiation of masculinity and identity through clothing choices among Russian speakers in Canada
Authors: Myzelev Alla
Published: November 2019

Using information interviews conducted with Russian-speaking men living in Toronto and vicinity this article interrogates the understanding of fashion among immigrants from former Soviet Union and Russia. Using a hypothesis that Russian-speaking men conceptualize their male identity differently from both their Canadian counterparts and Russian men living in Russia this article investigates how fashion choices affect negotiation of identity of these men in Canada. Using art historical methodologies, historical analysis and qualitative research I look at the interviewee’s contributions as a reflection of masculinity in transitions assuming that the forming of masculine identity is a constantly changing process. In each society the hegemonic model of masculinity categorizes groups of men in relation to each other through ‘normalizing’ the definition of masculinity and defining its standards and proper manifestations. This is particularly true of societies where the military culture has an increased presence and an important role to play. Contemporary Russia epitomizes the commanding and rigid nature of the masculinist regime where hegemonic masculinity is firmly established and thoroughly institutionalized.
Reconciling hyperconsumerism and sustainability in the island ecosystem: A photo essay of men’s street fashion in Honolulu
Authors: Pohlmann Attila
Published: November 2019

This visual study explores men’s street fashions in Honolulu, Hawai‘i. Due to their geographical remoteness, ethnically diverse population, and attractiveness as tourist destination, the Hawaiian Islands attract a variety of styles. I analyse men’s street wear through the theoretical lenses of hypermodernity and hyperconsumerism, which are characterized by the dissonance between the pleasures of fashion consumption and the associated environmental and social problems. Island ecosystems with dense boundaries between urban areas and the natural environment heighten awareness for sustainability. Detailed discussions of each outfit articulate my observations: men’s street fashions incorporate subtle references to current environmental and social issues to attenuate hyperconsumerist contradictions.
The spy who loved me: Benjamin Christensen and the Danish silent spy melodrama
Authors: Tybjerg Casper
Published: November 2019

This article examines the spy melodrama films produced in Denmark from 1909 to 1918, 21 in all. The best-known (and one of only two to survive) is Benjamin Christensen’s Det hemmelighedsfulde X (Sealed Orders) (1914). A coda will briefly discuss the only pre-1945 spy talking film, Damen med de lyse Handsker (The Lady with the Light Gloves) (1942), also directed by Christensen. The article employs an approach similar to James Chapman’s contextual film history, examining the Danish silent spy melodramas in the context of political climate and genre, but with an emphasis on the concerns of film producers and practitioners. Surviving plot summaries, which exist for all 21 films, reveal a considerable degree of consistency in the storylines. The article argues that the melodramatic elements found in nearly all the films suggest a more female-oriented audience appeal than that of many later spy fictions.
German pressure: Spy films and political censorship in Norway, 1914–40
Authors: Werenskjold Rolf
Published: November 2019

This article explores the relationship between spy films, political censorship and Norwegian foreign policy during the period from 1914 to 1940. Espionage was a popular topic in Norway during this era, both in the news media and as a theme in fictional dramas. Based on a survey of the vetting of 57 spy films, both silent and sound, by the state censorship board, the article focuses on the Norwegian government’s hidden role in political film censorship throughout the period. While Norway’s Constitution and film censorship statutes provided no legal foundation for political censorship, there is nonetheless ample evidence that it took place. The article concludes with an in-depth analysis of the process of banning the US film Confessions of a Nazi Spy in July 1939, the German involvement in that process, and the subsequent effort to change the censorship law to reflect what was happening in practice.
Scratch, Groove, the Imprint of(Non)presence: On the Spectrologies of the Holocaust
Authors: Ubertowska Aleksandra
Published: November 2019

This article presents an attempt to analyse concepts from Jacques Derrida's Hauntology and to apply those concepts as interpretive tools. Ubertowska uses them in her readings of post-traumatic literature, in particular texts and images that concerns the Holocaust. In the analytical part of the interpretation the author focuses on motifs of spectres in Zygmunt Miloszewski's popular crimi novel »Grain of Truth«, but also motifs of bones and fischbones in Holocaust survivor's Jonasz Stern's paintings. The Cracow-based painter's methods are described as a spectral substitution above and beyond species.
Self-Tracking als medienpädagogische Herausforderung
Authors: Damberger Thomas
Published: November 2019

Der vorliegende Beitrag entfaltet folgenden gedanklichen Weg. Ausgehend von dem Phänomen Quantified Self wird die Frage nach dem Selbst, das durch Self-Tracking erfasst werden soll, gestellt. Diese Frage ist historisch eng mit der Selbstsorge verknüpft. Sowohl die Selbstsorge als auch das moderne Self-Tracking zielen entweder auf Selbsterkenntnis ab oder setzen diese voraus. Das, was es als Selbst zu erkennen gilt, hat in der griechischen Antike einen anderen Charakter als in der römischen. Exemplarisch wird daher im ersten Teil (Selbsterkenntnis und Selbstsorge) Platons Dialog zwischen Sokrates und Alkibiades den Briefen des Stoikers Marc Aurel gegenübergestellt, um die wesentlichen Unterschiede im Selbstverständnis herauszuarbeiten. Während bei Platon das Selbst als unbegreifbar gedacht wird, erscheint es bei Aurel als mit dem Begriff identisch. Diese Identität wird im Falle des Quantified Self zu einer datafizierten. Was dieses Datafizierte meint, wird im zweiten Teil (Die unmögliche Selbstvermessung) erörtert. Dabei wird deutlich, dass die datenmäßige Erfassung von Körperfunktionen und Verhaltensweisen Ausdruck eines digitalen Totalitarismus ist, der dazu verleitet, das Nicht-Messbare als nicht existent zu interpretieren. Die Problematik, die mit einer solchen Interpretation einhergeht, wird in Anlehnung an Adorno, Heidegger und Sartre skizziert, um im anschließenden dritten Teil (Besser als Nichts? - Selbsttracking als Kompensation) auf Möglichkeiten einzugehen, das prinzipiell Unerfassbare als Lücke unbedacht zu lassen und durch ein Mehr an Daten zu kompensieren. Dass ein solcher Ansatz eine doppelte Reduktion beinhaltet, die sowohl das Selbst als auch den eigenen Körper betrifft, der im Zuge dessen ausschließlich als überwindbares Medium verstanden werden muss, wird mit Bezug auf zwei aktuelle transhumanistische Ansätze reflektiert. Daraus resultiert insbesondere für eine philosophisch orientierte Medienpädagogik eine Aufgabe, mit deren Herleitung und Bedeutung der Beitrag schließt.
Narrative kultureller Transformationen
Authors: Tafazoli Hamid
Published: November 2019

Das Weltbild der Moderne umfasst mit dem Begriff »Zeitgeist« Versuche, die Denkweise und Eigenart einer bestimmten Epoche zu vergegenwärtigen. Mit dem literarischen Erzählen als Medium der Kulturerzeugung stellt Hamid Tafazolis Studie diejenigen Artikulationsformen in den Mittelpunkt, an denen sich die Welt- und Selbstbilder der Kulturen ablesen lassen. Sie richtet den spezifischen Blick auf Erzählungen, die das kulturelle Gedächtnis Deutschlands und Irans gestalten, und begründet, dass Migration lediglich eine der epochalen Komponenten der Artikulationsformen ausmacht, auf die der »Zeitgeist« keineswegs reduziert werden kann.
Grenzraum Osteuropa
Authors: Szabó László V.
Published: November 2019

László V. Szabó versucht in seinem Beitrag die inter- und transkulturellen Narrative Joseph Roths anhand seiner Romane Hiob und Radetzkymarsch, aber auch seiner Publizistik (der Reiseberichte aus der Ukraine und Russland in den zwanziger Jahren) zu rekonstruieren. Der Grenzraum Osteuropa (Ost-Galizien vor dem Ersten Weltkrieg), von Joseph Roth dargestellt als eine Kontakt- und Konfliktzone von großer nationaler und kultureller Vielfalt, erweist sich dabei als ein geschichtsträchtiger Kulturraum der Wechselwirkung und Kohabitation, aber auch der Konflikte zwischen verschiedenen Sprachen, Kulturen und Nationalitäten, deren nuancierte wie distanzierte Darstellung eine transkulturelle Perspektive des Erzählens erkennen lässt.