bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Compreendendo a governança territorial e suas possibilidades: Arranjos Produtivos Locais (APL) e circuitos turísticos
Authors: Fuini Lucas Labigalini
Published: September 2020

Este artigo reúne noções, teorias e dados buscando compreender como se articulam as novas formas degovernança do território, através das estratégias institucionais e organizacionais dos atores locais para mobilizaçãodos ativos territoriais específi cos, em projetos de desenvolvimento local. Este estudo propõe uma base teóricaaplicada para estudos que buscam compreender como se expressam as organizações e as instituições, seus atorese agentes nos ambientes da estrutura de governança territorial, tendo em vista os vários contextos sócio-espaciaise territoriais em curso no Brasil. Desse modo, os Arranjos Produtivos Locais (APL) e os Circuitos Turísticos aparecemcomo estratégias inovadoras de governança territorial dado o caráter próprio de confi guração da relação entreEstado, iniciativa privada e outras instituições sociais.
O agente de desenvolvimento como protagonista da mudança local – a lei geral das micro e pequenas empresas em Mato Grosso do Sul
Authors: Fernandes Isabella Carvalho
Published: September 2020

Os Agentes de Desenvolvimento são peças fundamentais no trabalho de implementação da Lei Geral das Microempresas e Empresas de Pequeno Porte, e representam o principal agregador de forças entre o Poder Público, lideranças empresariais e da sociedade. No Estado de Mato Grosso do Sul atualmente são 57 agentes nomeados que trabalham em prol do desenvolvimento dos pequenos negócios urbanos e rurais. Esses Agentes tem como papel principal a implementação da Lei, mas o seu trabalho ultrapassa essas atividades, desempenhando função essencial na coordenação e continuidade do processo de desenvolvimento sustentável dos Municípios.
A importância da lei geral da micro e pequena empresa para o desenvolvimento dos pequenos empreendimentos, o caso do município de Miranda, MS
Authors: Oliveira Milton Cesar Pereira de
Published: September 2020

O presente artigo registra o trabalho desenvolvido pelo Serviço de Apoio às Micro e Pequenas Empresas(SEBRAE) para implementar a lei geral municipal das micro e pequenas empresas nos municípios brasileiros.O propósito do artigo é apresentar as mudanças significativas que foram surgindo após a aprovação da LeiComplementar 123/2006, desburocratizando a abertura e o fechamento de empreendimentos, simplificandotributos, facilitando o acesso a créditos e estimulando a exportação. O município de Miranda foi utilizado comobase de estudo e pesquisa.
Avaliação do uso do resíduo farelo de babaçu (Orbignya sp) na alimentação de ruminantes
Authors: Freitas Maria Alzira Garcia de , Siqueira Guilherme Benko , Siqueira Flávia Lucila Tonani
Published: September 2020

A procura por alternativas alimentares regionais que contribuam com a redução do custo na produção de ruminantes motivou avaliar o valor nutricional do farelo de babaçu em níveis crescentes na dieta. O delineamento experimental foi em blocos casualizados, com quatro tratamentos e seis repetições. Concluiu-se que esse farelo apresenta um valor nutricional relativamente baixo para a alimentação de ruminantes. Sua utilização não deve exceder a 20% da IMS.
Estimation of the probability of daily fluctuations of incidence of COVID-19 according to official data
Authors: Gerasimov Andrey
Published: September 2020

A method for analyzing the probabilistic distribution of the number of cases or deaths over adjacent days has been developed. When it was used, it was obtained that the official data on COVID-19 are artificially smoothed out - the jumps in the incidence are significantly less than expected.
EARLY WARNING INDICATORS AND OPTIMAL POLICIES FOR MITIGATING ECONOMIC CRISES: EVIDENCE FROM META-ANALYSIS
Authors: Abubakar Arlyana , Utari Diah , Azwar Prayudhi
Published: September 2020

This study examines the early warning indicators of crises and the optimal policies for mitigating economic crises. Based on meta-analysis of 72 studies, we find that the exchange rate is the most used indicator in detecting crises, and the optimal policies for mitigating crises are monetary and fiscal policies. We further find that besides the exchange rate, the interest rate is a dominant indicator of crises in developed countries.Moreover, the foreign exchange, international reserves and current account are the dominant indicators in developing countries. The evidence for developing countries aligns with the finding that policies addressing external sector performance are preferable to mitigate crises in these countries.
FINANCIAL STABILITY AND INCOME GROWTH IN EMERGING MARKETS
Authors: Mande Bashir T. , Salisu Afees , Jimoh Adeola N. , Dosumu Fola , Adamu Girei H.
Published: September 2020

In this paper, we examine the extent to which financial stability matters for income growth in emerging markets. Using dynamic panel estimation techniques, we explore both the stock market and banking sector dimensions of the financial system to show that both stock market volatility and non-performing loans are detrimental to income growth in these markets. We, however, find the magnitude of the impact to be relatively more pronounced when the underlying source of instability in the financial system is stock market volatility. Overall, we find the impact of financial stability on income growth to be more statistically relevant when measured using the individual indicators of financial instability as compared to their composite indicator.
Surfactant Flooding Performance for a Canadian Bitumen Recovery: Effect of Polarity
Authors: Seng Lee Yeh , Hascakir Berna
Published: September 2020

The objective of this study is to examine the impact of polarity on surfactant-steam flooding performance in the recovery of a Canadian bitumen sample.

10 laboratory-scale core flood experiments were used to investigate the interaction between the polar head of surfactants and polar fractions of the bitumen sample (resins and asphaltenes) in the presence of steam. A Canadian bitumen from Alberta with high polar fraction content; resins (17 wt%) and asphaltenes (29 wt%), was selected. The bitumen sample was first characterized in terms of viscosity at reservoir temperature (10,000 cP) and API Gravity (12°). Then, coreflood tests were conducted by coinjecting steam with an anionic, a cationic, or a nonionic surfactant. The performance of three anionic, three cationic, and three nonionic surfactants was tested. Each core flood result was evaluated in terms of the cumulative oil recovery, the residual oil content, the produced oil quality, and the asphaltenes content of produced and residual oil samples. Then, bitumen's polar fractions (resins and asphaltenes) and bitumen itself were subjected to each surfactant solution under steam and liquid water conditions, and simultaneously their interactions were captured by an optical microscope. Analysis of microscopic images was used to explain the performance differences in each flooding test.

Every surfactant-steam flooding process resulted in higher recovery than steam flooding alone. The greatest oil recovery was observed with the longest tail length anionic surfactant. It has been observed that the presence of asphaltenes in displaced oil inhibits the formation of microemulsions and consequently reduces the amount of produced oil. Further, we observed that the microemulsions are successfully formed between the resins fraction of bitumen sample and surfactant solution under steam condition. Hence, to maximize the effectiveness of surfactant processes in high asphaltenes content reservoirs, we highly recommend the use of asphaltenes precipitants prior to injection of any surfactant solutions.
The Oral Microbiome and Salivary Proteins Influence Caries in Children aged 6 to 8 years
Authors: Chen Wang , Jiang Qian , Yan GuoWei , Yang DeQin
Published: September 2020

Background

Oral microbiome and salivary proteins play a critical role in the occurrence and development of caries. In this study, we used metagenomic and metaproteomic analyses to explore the microbiological and proteinic biomarkers and investigate the etiology of caries in 6-8 year old children. Our study aims to offer a better comprehension of these factors and the relationship with caries, and these findings might facilitate caries risk assessment and provide a basis for future prevention strategies.

Methods

Children six to eight years old living in rural isolated areas including 40 caries-active subjects and 40 caries-free subjects were recruited. Supragingival plaque and unstimulated saliva were collected for 16S rDNA pyrosequencing and isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ) technique coupled with quantitative nano-flow liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry(LC-MS/MS), respectively.

Results

We found 6 phyla and 13 genera predominant in all the samples, and differences in relative abundances can be observed. The Alpha diversity analysis demonstrated that the richness and diversity of the bacterial communities were similar between children with caries-free and caries-active groups; LEfSe detected differences in the bacterial community including Dialister, Selenomonas, Actinomyces, and Mogibacterium in the caries-active group (P<0.05) and Capnocytophaga, Fusobacterium, Desulfuromonadales, Haemophilus, and Porphyromonas in the caries-free group(P<0.05). The core microbiome was defined as 18 predominant genera in preschool children with caries. The results of the salivary proteome identified 9135 unique peptides and 1662 proteins group from 20 salivary samples. Two hundred fifty-eight proteins were differentially expressed between the caries-free and caries-active groups.

Conclusions

The diversity of the microbial community has little effect on caries but some bacteria with different relative abundance between the caries-active and caries-free group could be considered as potential biomarkers for children with caries.In addition, as a critical host factor of caries, the salivary proteins are different in caries-free and caries-active groups.
Genotypic characterisation and antimicrobial resistance of Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains isolated from patients of different hospitals and medical centres from Poland
Authors: Brzozowski Marcin , Krukowska Żaneta , Galant Katarzyna , Jursa-Kulesza Joanna , Kosik-Bogacka Danuta Izabela
Published: September 2020

Background

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a Gram-negative bacillus responsible for infections in immunocompromised patients and is one of the most common causes of nosocomial infections particularly in intensive care and burn units. We aimed to investigate the population structure of P. aeruginosa strains isolated from patients at different hospital wards.

Methods

We analysed a possible presence of P. aeruginosa epidemic or endemic strains in hospitals of the selected region. A genotyping analysis was performed for 202 P. aeruginosa isolates collected from patients of eleven hospitals in north-western Poland. Collections of P. aeruginosa were genotyped using pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). Phenotypic screening for antibiotic susceptibility was performed for the common antimicrobial agents.

Results

All P. aeruginosa isolates were distributed among 116 different pulsotype groups. We identified 30 groups of clonally related strains, each containing from 2 to 17 isolates. Typed the obtained 13 unique patterns, designated as A, D, J, K, M, N, Ó, P, T, X, AC, AD, and AH. The two largest clusters, D and E, contained 17 and 13 isolates, respectively. Strains of those groups were continuously isolated from patients at intensive care units and burn units, indicating transmission of those strains.

Conclusions

In this study, we demonstrate the clonal relatedness of P. aeruginosa strains and their constant exchange in hospitals over a period of 15 months. The obtained results indicate a predominantly non-clonal structure of P. aeruginosa .
Gumbel-softmax-based Optimization: A Simple General Framework for Optimization Problems on Graphs
Authors: Li Yaoxin , Liu Jing , Lin Guozheng , Hou Yueyuan , Mou Muyun , Zhang Jiang
Published: September 2020

In computer science, there exist a large number of optimization problems defined on graphs, that is to find a best node state configuration or a network structure such that the designed objective function is optimized under some constraints. However, these problems are notorious for their hardness to solve because most of them are NP-hard or NP-complete. Although traditional general methods such as simulated annealing (SA), genetic algorithms (GA) and so forth have been devised to these hard problems, their accuracy and time consumption are not satisfying in practice. In this work, we proposed a simple, fast, and general algorithm framework based on advanced automatic differentiation technique empowered by deep learning frameworks. By introducing Gumbel-softmax technique, we can optimize the objective function directly by gradient descent algorithm regardless of the discrete nature of variables. We also introduce evolution strategy to parallel version of our algorithm. We test our algorithm on four representative optimization problems on graph including modularity optimization from network science, Sherrington-Kirkpatrick (SK) model from statistical physics, maximum independent set (MIS) and minimum vertex cover (MVC) problem from combinatorial optimization on graph, and Influence Maximization problem from computational social science. High-quality solutions can be obtained with much less time consuming compared to traditional approaches.
Nogo-A-Δ20/EphA4 interaction antagonizes apoptosis of neural stem cells by integrating p38 and JNK MAPK signaling
Authors: wang junling , chen weiguang , xu chaojin
Published: September 2020

The authors have withdrawn this preprint due to author disagreement.
Determinants of quality of life and life satisfaction of urban residents
Authors: Kotarski Hubert
Published: September 2020

Background: The assessment of quality of life and life satisfaction of Rzeszow residents aged 18-75 using a WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire which consists of 26 questions and analyses 4 basic domains of quality of life: physical, psychological, social relationships, functional environment of the respondent and a global quality of life and self-assessment of one’s health.Methods: The survey was conducted on a representative sample of 618 adult residents of Rzeszow (Poland; population: 195 031). Respondents were randomly selected through systematic random sampling with latent layer division from the population register shared by Rzeszow Municipal Office.Results: Good scale score reliability for the entire tool was confirmed in the study population: the Cronbach's α compatibility coefficient for sub-tests (four domains) between 0.746-0.848, and for the entire test - 0.921. The results indicate that gender does not differentiate the quality of life of Rzeszow residents. However, the quality of life is affected by age, education, financial situation, and body mass index.Conclusions: I found that the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire is an interesting research tool when analysing the quality of life and may be useful in comparative studies of the quality of life of the residents of cities/towns, counties or regions.
Mitochondrial-nuclear coadaptation revealed through mtDNA replacements in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Nguyen Tuc H.M. , Sondhi Sargunvir , Ziesel Andrew , Paliwal Swati , Fiumera Heather
Published: September 2020

Background: Mitochondrial function requires numerous genetic interactions between mitochondrial- and nuclear- encoded genes. While selection for optimal mitonuclear interactions should result in coevolution between both genomes, evidence for mitonuclear coadaptation is challenging to document. Genetic models where mitonuclear interactions can be explored are needed. Results: We systematically exchanged mtDNAs between 15 Saccharomyces cerevisiae isolates from a variety of ecological niches to create 225 unique mitochondrial-nuclear genotypes. Analysis of phenotypic profiles confirmed that environmentally-sensitive interactions between mitochondrial and nuclear genotype contributed to growth differences. Exchanges of mtDNAs between strains of the same or different clades were just as likely to demonstrate mitonuclear epistasis although epistatic effect sizes increased with genetic distances. Strains with their original mtDNAs were more fit than strains with synthetic mitonuclear combinations when grown in media that resembled isolation habitats. Conclusions: This study shows that natural variation in mitonuclear interactions contributes to fitness landscapes. Multiple examples of coadapted mitochondrial-nuclear genotypes suggest that selection for mitonuclear interactions may play a role in helping yeasts adapt to novel environments and promote coevolution.
A comparative case study of prescribing and non-prescribing physiotherapists and podiatrists
Authors: Carey Nicola , Edwards Judith , Otter Simon , Gage Heather , Williams Peter , Courtenay Molly , Moore Ann , Stenner Karen
Published: September 2020

Background Increasing numbers of nurses, pharmacists and allied health professionals across the world have prescribing rights for medicines: over 90,000 of the eligible United Kingdom workforce are qualified as non-doctor prescribers. In order to inform future developments, it is important to understand the benefits and impact of prescribing by allied health professionals including physiotherapists and podiatrists.Aim: to compare outcomes of physiotherapist and podiatrist Independent Prescriber (PP- IP) patients with those of physiotherapist and podiatrist non-prescribers (PP-NPs). Outcome measures included patient satisfaction, ease of access to services, quality of life and cost implications.Design: a mixed method comparative case study Methods: Using mixed methods of data collection, outcomes were compared between 7 sites where care was provided from a PP-IP (3 podiatrist and 4 physiotherapist IPs) and 7 sites from a PP-NP (3 podiatrist and 4 physiotherapist NPs). Patients were followed up for 2 months (2015-2016). Results: 489 patients were recruited: n=243 IP sites, and n=246 NP sites. Independent prescribing was found to be highly acceptable, and equivalent in terms of quality of life (p>0.05) and patient satisfaction (p≤0.05) compared to care provided by NPs. PP-IP care delivery was found to be more resource intensive than NP-PP, with longer consultation duration for IPs (around 6.5 mins), and a higher proportion of physiotherapy patients discussed with medical colleagues (around 9.5 minutes). ConclusionThis study provides new knowledge that PP-IPs provide high levels of care. PP-IP care delivery was found to be more resource intensive. Further research is required to explore cost effectiveness. A more focussed exploration within each profession using targeted outcome measures would enable a more robust comparison, inform future developments around the world and help ensure non-doctor prescribing is recognised as an effective way to alleviate shortfalls in the global workforce.
Depression in patients with knee osteoarthritis: risk factors and associations with joint symptoms
Authors: Zheng Shuang , Tu Liudan , Cicuttini Flavia , Zhu Zhaohua , Han Weiyu , Antony Benny , Wluka Anita E. , Winzenberg Tania , Aitken Dawn , Blizzard Leigh , Jones Graeme , Ding Changhai
Published: September 2020

Background:To describe demographic and clinical factors associated with the prevalence and incidence of depression and explore the temporal relationship between depression and joint symptoms in patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis (OA). Methods:413 participants were selected from a randomized controlled trial in people with symptomatic knee OA and vitamin D deficiency (age 63.2 ± 7.0 year, 50.4% female). Depression severity and knee joint symptoms were assessed using the patient health questionnaire (PHQ-9) and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), respectively, at baseline and 24 months. Results: The prevalence and incidence of depression was 25.4% and 11.2%, respectively. At baseline, having younger age, a higher body mass index (BMI), greater scores of WOMAC pain (PR: 1.05, 95%CI:1.03, 1.07), dysfunction (PR: 1.02, 95%CI:1.01, 1.02) and stiffness (PR: 1.05, 95%CI: 1.02, 1.09), lower education level, having more than one comorbidity and having two or more painful body sites were significantly associated with a higher prevalence of depression. Over 24 months, being female, having a higher WOMAC pain (RR: 1.05, 95%CI: 1.02, 1.09) and dysfunction score (RR: 1.02, 95%CI: 1.01, 1.03) at baseline and having two or more painful sites were significantly associated with a higher incidence of depression. In contrast, baseline depression was not associated with changes in knee joint symptoms over 24 months. Conclusion: Knee OA risk factors and joint symptoms, along with co-existing multi-site pain are associated with the prevalence and development of depression. This suggests that managing common OA risk factors and joint symptoms may be important for prevention and treatment depression in patients with knee OA.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01176344Anzctr.org.au identifier: ACTRN12610000495022
Knowledge, attitudes, anxiety, and preventive behaviors towards COVID-19 among health care providers in Yemen: an online cross-sectional survey
Authors: Alrubaiee Gamil Ghaleb , Al-Qalah Talal Ali Hussein , Al-Aawar Mohammed Sadeg A.
Published: September 2020

Background: The current rapid prevalence of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic over the world is associated with a considerable level of scared, anxiety and panic among the public, in particular, healthcare providers (HCPs) as the most vulnerable group at risk for SARS-CoV-2 infection. To protect and enhance HCPs' capacity to carry out their duties in responding to COVID-19, healthcare authorities should keep them away from stress and anxiety and improve their knowledge, attitude, and practice towards COVID-19 to ensure their compliance to infection control precautions. Therefore, this study aimed to explore knowledge, attitudes, anxiety, and preventive behaviours among Yemeni HCPs towards COVID-19. Methods: A descriptive, web-based-cross-sectional study was conducted among a number of 1231 Yemeni HCPs. The COVID-19 related questionnaire was designed using Google forms. The responses were coded and analysed using the software package (IBMSPSS), version 22.0. Descriptive statistics and Pearson's correlation coefficient test were also used in this study. A p-value of < 0.05 levels with a 95% confidence interval was considered as statistically significant. The data collection started on 22nd April 2020, at 6 PM and closed on 26th April 2020 at 11 AM. Results: The results indicated that out of 1231 of the HCPs participating in this study, 61.6% were male and more than (67%) were in the age group of 20 to 30 years old with a mean of 29.29±6.75. Most of them (86%) had a bachelor degree or above and had 10 years of working experience or less (88.1%). Besides, although 57.1% of the respondents obtained their information via social and news media and 60.0% had never attended lectures/discussions about COVID-19, the results revealed that the majority of respondents had an adequate level of knowledge, an optimistic attitude, moderate anxiety and high performance in preventive behaviors (69.8%, 85.10%, 51.0& 87.70%, respectively) toward the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusion: Although the Yemeni HCPs exhibited an adequate level of knowledge, an optimistic attitude, moderate anxiety and high performance in preventive behaviours toward the COVID-19 pandemic, the results showed gaps in some themes, particularly in their knowledge and attitude on COVID-19 pandemic which need to be updated or refreshed.
How useful are malaria risk maps at the country level? Perceptions of decision-makers in Kenya, Malawi and the Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Ghilardi Ludovica , Okello George , Nyondo-Mipando Linda , Chirambo Chawanangwa Mahebere , Malongo Fathy , Hoyt Jenna , Lee Jieun , Sedekia Yovitha , Parkhurst Justin , Lines Jo , Snow Robert W , Lynch Caroline A. , Webster Jayne
Published: September 2020

Background

Declining malaria prevalence and pressure on external funding have increased the need for efficiency in malaria control in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Modelled Plasmodium falciparum parasite rate (PfPR) maps are increasingly becoming available and provide information on the epidemiological situation of countries. However, how these maps are understood or used for national malaria planning is rarely explored. In this study the practices and perceptions of national decision-makers on the utility of malaria risk maps, showing prevalence of parasitaemia or incidence of illness, was investigated.

Methods

A document review of recent National Malaria Strategic Plans was combined with 64 in-depth interviews with stakeholders in Kenya, Malawi and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The document review focused on the type of epidemiological maps included and their use in prioritising and targeting interventions. Interviews (14 Kenya, 17 Malawi, 27 DRC, 6 global level) explored drivers of stakeholder perceptions of the utility, value and limitations of malaria risk maps.

Results

Three different types of maps were used to show malaria epidemiological strata: malaria prevalence using a PfPR modelled map (Kenya); malaria incidence using routine health system data (Malawi); and malaria prevalence using data from the most recent Demographic and Health Survey (DRC). In Kenya the map was used to target preventative interventions including long lasting insecticide treated nets (LLINs) and intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy (IPTp), whilst in Malawi and DRC the maps were used to target in-door residual spraying (IRS) and LLINs distributions in schools. Maps were also used for operational planning, supply quantification, financial justification and advocacy. Findings from the interviews suggested that decision-makers lacked trust in the modelled PfPR maps when based on only a few empirical data points (Malawi and DRC).

Conclusions

Maps were generally used to identify areas with high prevalence in order to implement specific interventions. Despite the availability of national level modelled PfPR maps in all three countries, they were only used in one country. Perceived utility of malaria risk maps was associated with the epidemiological structure of the country and use was driven by perceived need, understanding (quality and relevance), ownership and trust in the data used to develop the maps.
Effects of fluoride and calcium phosphate-based varnishes on pH, lactic acid, and trace elements in saliva: a randomized clinical trial.
Authors: Pascual Andrea Poza , Muñoz Clara Serna , Silva Amparo Perez , Martínez-Beneyto Yolanda , Ruiz Antonio Jose Ortiz
Published: September 2020

Background: When dental plaque is not regularly removed, bacteria break down sugars in the diet forming acids as by-products. Lactic acid is the main acid involved in caries. As acids accumulate minerals are lost from the surface layer of the tooth. The imbalance in demineralization/remineralization favors the loss of calcium and phosphate from the teeth. Saliva contains the most important microelements for the remineralization and maturation of dental tissue and plays a crucial role in maintaining the oral environment. Fluoride is the agent par excellence in preventing and detaining cavities. However, remineralization may be hampered by limited levels of calcium and phosphate, and new products have been developed to ensure a constant supply. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of the application of two varnishes − MI Varnish (5% sodium fluoride with CPP-ACP) and Clinpro White Varnish (5% sodium fluoride with fTCP) – applied every three months in children with high caries risk for 12 months on salivary pH, lactic acid concentrations and trace elements.Methods: We conducted a controlled, randomized clinical trial where MI Varnish and Clinpro White Varnish were applied quarterly in children with a high risk of caries, for 12 months. We included 58 children aged 4-12 years, assigned to control (placebo), Clinpro and MI groups. Baseline and three-monthly saliva samples were taken. We assessed changes in pH, lactic acid concentrations and trace elements in saliva. Results: At 12 months, all groups showed a nonsignificant increase in pH levels and a reduction in lactic acid, which was greatest in the placebo group. There was a significant reduction in 24Mg (p= <0.001), 31P (p = 0.033) and 66Zn (p= 0.005) levels in the placebo group (p≤0.05), but not in the other elements studied: 23Na, 27Al, 39K, 44Ca, 52Cr, 55Mn, 57Fe, 59Co, 63Cu, 75As, 111Cd, 137Ba, 208Pb and 19F. Conclusions: Neither pH, lactic acid concentrations or most salivary trace elements were useful in defining patients at high risk of caries or in monitoring the effect of MI Varnish and Clinpro White Varnish after three-monthly application for 12 months. Trial registration: ISRCTN registry, ISRCTN13681286. Registered 26 May 2020.
Medial entorhinal spike clusters carry more finely tuned spatial information than single spike
Authors: Quinlan Leo , Tyree Susan , Munn Rob
Published: September 2020

Many cells within the entorhinal cortex (EC) fire relatively infrequently, with the majority of their spikes separated by many hundreds of milliseconds. However, most cells are seen to occasionally fire two or more spikes in quick succession. Recent evidence has shown that, in EC grid cells, “burstier” cells; cells that fire more of their spikes in bursts, have more well defined spatial characteristics than cells that fire fewer bursts. We divide the spikes fired by single cells into single spikes and “clusters” of spikes occuring within 100ms. We show that these burst “clusters” of spikes fired by cells in MEC convey more finely tuned spatial and directional information than the numerically more common single spikes. In addition, we find that introducing environmental uncertainty decreases the ratio of clusters fired to single spikes. Most crucially, we find that single spikes are less spatially precise than clusters, and these spikes are more closely entrained to LFP theta than clusters. These findings demonstrate that clusters of spikes in EC convey more specific information about space than single spikes, may reflect “certainty” about spatial position and direction, and may represent a different firing “mode” in which intraregional communication is less relevant than interregional traffic.
The relationship between ratio of serum triglyceride to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and frequency of sarcopenia in Chinese community adults
Authors: Wang Na , Chen Mengjun , Fang Danhong
Published: September 2020

Background In a previous study, the high ratio of serum triglyceride to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (TG/HDL-C) was relevant to a high risk of sarcopenia in Korean old males. In this study, the purpose was to discover the association in Chinese community adults.MethodsChinese adults who had physical examinations from May 2016 to August 2017 at the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University were involved in this study. The univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were applied to evaluate possible effect.ResultsIn total, 2613 adults were involved in the study, with 13.85% presenting sarcopenia. Individuals with TG/HDL-C ratios <2.78 or ≥2.78 were categorized as TG/HDL-Clow or TG/HDL-Chigh, respectively. 1266 individuals were in high group and the remaining were in the low group. By univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses, the ratio of TG/HDL-C remained independent association with sarcopenia status(OR: 0.63; 95%CI: 0.49-0.81). ConclusionsThe negative association between sarcopenia and TG/HDL-C ratio was discovered in Chinese community population.
Effects of physical and chemical factors on pseudorabies virus activity in vitro
Authors: Gong Lang , Deng Qiwei , Xu Runda , Ji Chihai , Wang Heng , Zhang Gui-Hong
Published: September 2020

Background: Pseudorabies (PR) is latent and can persist in infected sows for a long time, and thus, convalescent sows can carry the virus throughout life, causing severe economic losses to farmers and posing a tremendous challenge to PR prevention and control. Here, to investigate the biological characteristics of pseudorabies virus (PRV), a variety of physical and chemical factors were analyzed under controlled conditions.Results: The results showed that a high ambient temperature and dry environment led to faster virus inactivation. PRV had a certain resistance to weakly acidic or alkaline environments and was rapidly inactivated in strongly acidic or alkaline environments. The effect of ultraviolet (UV) radiation on PRV activity primarily depended on the frequency, intensity, and irradiation time of the UV exposure. Exposure to sunlight inactivated PRV via multiple factors, including temperature, sunlight intensity, UV intensity, and environmental humidity, and any shielding from sunlight strongly lowered the killing effect. Conventional disinfectants had a good disinfection effect on PRV. Conclusions: The biological characteristics of different PRV strains are variable. Generally, the activity of PRV is affected by multiple factors, which can show both synergy and antagonism. Real-world conditions should be taken into consideration to guide pork production.
Breast papillary lesions diagnosed and treated using ultrasound-guided vacuum-assisted excision
Authors: Li Xiaohui , Gao Hua , xu minling , wu yang , gao dezong
Published: September 2020

Background: The management of papillary lesions of the breast remains controversial, and thus, we assessed the value of vacuum-assisted excision (VAE)-guided ultrasound in the diagnosis and treatment of breast papillary lesions. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the data of 108 patients with papillary lesions diagnosed using VAE between August 2014 and January 2019. Cases without postoperative breast imaging in the follow-up were excluded, and 85 cases were eligible for the study. The follow-up period ranged from 6 to 53 months, with 38 months on average. All the papillary lesions were located away from the skin or nipple with a size less than or equal to 30 mm, and the lesions categorized as C2-4b were completely excised using VAE. All VAEs were per­formed using an 8-gauge vacuum-assisted biopsy nee­dle under the guidance of ultrasound using a 10 MHz linear probe. Results: Most patients with breast papillary lesions were asymptomatic (56.5%), and when the size of the breast papillary lesion was more than 20 mm on ultrasound imaging, atypical hyperplasia may have been concomitant. Breast lesions might have been pathologically diagnosed as papilloma after biopsy when they were categorized as BI-RADS 4a on ultrasound images. The rate of underestimation was 7.7% in papillary lesions diagnosed with VAE, and the recurrence rate of papilloma after VAE was low. Conclusions: Breast papilloma was a common lesion on ultrasonographic screening, and VAE was applicable for completely excising small papillomas, even papillomas with atypical hyperplasia, to obtain an accurate diagnosis with a low rate of underestimation and recurrence. We believe that papilloma diagnosed by VAE might not require immediate excision, and imaging follow-up may be safe for at least 3 years.
Evaluation of candidate models for the 13th generation International Geomagnetic Reference Field
Authors: Alken Patrick , Thebault Erwan , Beggan Ciaran , Aubert Julien , Baerenzung Julien , Brown William J. , Califf S. , Chulliat Arnaud , Cox G.A. , Finlay Christopher C. , Fournier Alexandre , Gillet Nicolas , Hammer Magnus D. , Holschneider Matthias , Hulot Gauthier , Korte Monika , Lesur Vincent , Livermore Philippe W. , Lowes Frank J. , Macmillan Susan , Nair Manoj , Olsen Nils , Ropp G. , Rother Martin , Schnepf Neesha , Stolle Claudia , Toh Hiroaki , Vervelidou Fotini , Vigneron Pierre , Wardinski Ingo
Published: September 2020

In December 2019, the 13th revision of the International Geomagnetic Reference Field (IGRF) was released by the International Association of Geomagnetism and Aeronomy (IAGA) Division V Working Group V-MOD. This revision comprises two new spherical harmonic main field models

for epochs 2015.0 (DGRF-2015) and 2020.0 (IGRF-2020) and a model of the predicted secular variation for the interval 2020.0 to 2025.0 (SV-2020-2025). The models were produced from candidates submitted by fifteen international teams. These teams were led by the British Geological Survey (UK), China Earthquake Administration (China), Universidad Complutense de Madrid (Spain), University of Colorado Boulder (USA), Technical University of Denmark (Denmark), GFZ German Research Centre for Geosciences (Germany), Institut de physique du globe de Paris (France), Institut des Sciences de la Terre (France), Pushkov Institute of Terrestrial Magnetism, Ionosphere and Radio Wave Propagation (Russia), Kyoto University (Japan), University of Leeds (UK), Max Planck Institute for Solar System Research (Germany), NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (USA), University of Potsdam (Germany), and Universit\'e de Strasbourg (France). The candidate models were evaluated individually and compared to all other candidates as well to the mean, median and a robust Huber-weighted model of all candidates. These analyses were used to identify, for example, the variation between the Gauss coefficients or the geographical regions where the candidate models strongly differed. The majority of candidates were sufficiently close that the differences can be explained primarily by individual modeling methodologies and data selection strategies. None of the candidates were so different as to warrant their exclusion from the final IGRF-13. The IAGA V-MOD task force thus voted for two approaches: the median of the Gauss coefficients of the candidates for the DGRF-2015 and IGRF-2020 models and the robust Huber-weighted model for the predictive SV-2020-2025. In this paper, we document the evaluation of the candidate models and provide details of the approach used to derive the final IGRF-13 products. We also perform a retrospective analysis of the IGRF-12 SV candidates over their performance period (2015-2020). Our findings suggest that forecasting secular variation can benefit from combining physics-based core modeling with satellite observations.
Intensity-modulated radiation therapy versus three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: long-term and mature outcomes of a prospective randomized trial
Authors: Gupta Tejpal , Sinha Shwetabh , Laskar Sarbani Ghosh , Budrukkar Ashwini , Mummudi Naveen , Swain Monali , Phurailatpam Reena , Prabhash Kumar , Agarwal Jai Prakash
Published: September 2020

Purpose: To compare long-term disease-related outcomes and late radiation morbidity between intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3D-CRT) in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) in the setting of a prospective randomized controlled trial.Methods: Previously untreated patients with early to moderately advanced non-metastatic squamous carcinoma of the oropharynx, larynx, or hypopharynx (T1-T3, N0-N2b, M0) planned for comprehensive irradiation of primary site and bilateral neck nodes were randomly assigned to either IMRT or 3D-CRT after written informed consent. Patients were treated with 6MV photons to a total dose of 70Gy/35 fractions over 7 weeks (3D-CRT) or 66Gy/30 fractions over 6 weeks (IMRT). A sample size of 60 patients was estimated to demonstrate 35% absolute difference in the incidence of ≥grade 2 acute xerostomia between the two arms. All time-to-event outcomes were calculated from date of randomization until the defined event using the Kaplan-Meier method. Results: At a median follow-up of 140 months for surviving patients, 10-year Kaplan-Meier estimates of loco-regional control (LRC); progression-free survival (PFS); and overall survival (OS) with 95% confidence interval (95%CI) were 73.6% (95%CI: 61.2-86%); 45.2% (95%CI: 32-58.4%); and 50.3% (95%CI: 37.1-63.5%) respectively. There were no significant differences in 10-year disease-related outcomes between 3D-CRT and IMRT for LRC [79.2% (95%CI: 62.2-96.2%) vs 68.7% (95%CI: 51.1-86.3%), p=0.39]; PFS [41.3% (95%CI: 22.3-60.3%) vs 48.6% (95%CI: 30.6-66.6%), p=0.59]; or OS [44.9% (95%CI: 25.7-64.1%) vs 55.0% (95%CI: 37-73%), p=0.49]. Significantly lesser proportion of patients in the IMRT arm experienced ≥grade 2 late xerostomia and subcutaneous fibrosis at all time-points. However, at longer follow-up, fewer patients remained evaluable for late radiation toxicity reducing statistical power and precision. Conclusions: IMRT provides a clinically meaningful and sustained reduction in the incidence of moderate to severe xerostomia and subcutaneous fibrosis compared to 3D-CRT without compromising disease-related outcomes in long-term survivors of non-nasopharyngeal HNSCC.
Prevalence of postural musculoskeletal symptoms among dental students in United Arab Emirates. 
Authors: Hashim Raghad , Salah Afraa , Mayahi Fatemeh , Haidary Saeedeh
Published: September 2020

BackgroundThe main purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence of neck, shoulder, and low-back pains and to explore factors associated with musculoskeletal pain (MSP) among dental students at Ajman University and Ras Al Khaimah College of Dental Sciences in United Arab Emirates (UAE). Method This cross-sectional study was conducted among dental students using an online questionnaire; which was a modified version of the Standardized Nordic questionnaire, focused on neck, shoulder and low-back pain in the past week and the past year. Results Two hundred and two students responded to the questionnaire out of 368. The prevalence of MSP in at least one body site in the past week, and in the past year was 48.5% and 68.3% respectively. Factors significantly associated with MSP in at least one body site at any time were having history of trauma (P = 0.009), lack of exercise (P = 0.001), being in the clinic for longer time (P = 0.000), and higher BMI (P = 0.010). Conclusion MSP among dental students in the UAE is high. Careful attention is required by the dental colleges to increase students’ awareness towards this problem. This study contributed to better understanding of MSP among dental professionals.
The properties of MOF-Zn2(EBNB)2(BPY)2·2H2O and its basic study of loading Methadone
Authors: Linxin Deng , Song Li , Sun Xuehua
Published: September 2020

The ligands of (E)-bis(p-3-nitrobenzoic acid) vinyl (C 16 H 10 N 2 O 8 ) were synthesized in three steps, and then the MOF-Zn 2 (EBNB) 2 (BPY) 2 ·2H 2 O was synthesized by solvothermal method. This structure was characterized by X-ray single crystal diffraction, SEM and TG. The drug loading and in vitro release of Zn 2 (EBNB) 2 (BPY) 2 ·2H 2 O were also studied with Methadone as model drug. The result shows that the highest loading amount of Zn 2 (EBNB) 2 (BPY) 2 ·2H 2 O to Methadone was 0.256g/g, and the drug delivery system was a two-phase mode. The results of in vitro cytotoxicity test shows that Zn 2 (EBNB) 2 (BPY) 2 ·2H 2 O has good biocompatibility.
The Evaluation of Degeneration of Posterior Cruciate Ligament Using CT Hounsfield Unit in Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Sumida Yoshikazu , Nakasa Tomoyuki , Ishikawa Masakazu , Nakamae Atsuo , Adachi Nobuo
Published: September 2020

Background: The degeneration of posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) is often seen in knee osteoarthritis (OA), however there is no established method for its evaluation. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether Hounsfield unit (HU) using CT (computed tomography) could be a useful scale to evaluate the degeneration of PCL in knee OA.Methods: Knee OA treated with total knee arthroplasty (21 patients, 21 knees) and non-osteoarthritic knees (21 patients, 21 knees) were prospectively studied. All PCLs in the knees were analyzed by CT scan. PCL in sagittal section was divided into three regions: proximal, middle and distal portions. The HU value of PCL at each area was measured. In osteoarthritic knees, tissues from PCL were collected and histologically graded.Results: The HU value in OA and non-OA was 70.7 and 88.4 HU (p<0.05) at proximal region, 75.7 HU and 85.3 (p<0.05) at central region and 82.3 and 86.5 HU (p>0.05) at distal region, respectively. The degeneration of PCL was graded as follows; mild: 1 case, moderate: 3 cases and severe: 17 cases at proximal portion and mild: 16 cases, moderate: 4 cases and severe: 1 case at distal portion. The HU value was 84.5 HU for mild, 72.1 HU for moderate and 70.6 HU for severe (mild versus moderate: p<0.05, mild versus severe: p<0.05, moderate versus severe: p>0.05).Conclusions: In knee OA, lower HU value in PCL indicates progression of degeneration. The CT HU value could be a useful measurement to predict the grade of degeneration of PCL.
Morphological and molecular characterization of Sarcocystis wenzeli in chickens (Gallus gallus) in China
Authors: Pan Jing , Ma Chunli , Huang Zhumei , Ye Yulong , Zeng Hongxia , Deng Shuangsheng , Hu Junjie , Tao Jianping
Published: September 2020

Background: There has been considerable confusion concerning the number and classification of Sarcocystis spp. in chickens. Scarce nucleotide data of Sarcocystis spp. from chickens are provided in GenBank. The study aimed to investigate the morphological and molecular characteristics of Sarcocystis spp. found in chickens in China. Methods: Tissues from 33 chickens were collected in 2019. Sarcocysts were observed using light (LM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Individual sarcocysts from different chickens were selected for DNA extraction, and five loci, 18S rDNA, 28S rDNA, the ITS-1 region ( ITS-1 ), the mitochondrial cox1 gene ( cox1 ), and the apicoplastic rpoB gene ( rpoB ), were amplified from each sarcocyst, sequenced and analyzed. Results: Only S . wenzeli was found in 14 of 33 (42.4%) chickens. Under LM, the sarcocysts were microscopic and exhibited palisade-like villar protrusions measuring 1.5–2.8 μm. Ultrastructurally, the sarcocyst wall contained numerous stubby hill-like villar protrusions. The protrusions included scattered microtubules, which extended from the tips of the protrusions into the ground substance. The five loci were successfully sequenced and deposited in GenBank. At 18S rDNA, ITS-1 and cox1 , the most similar sequences in GenBank were those of Sarcocystis sp. obtained from the brains of chickens, i.e., 99.9–100%, 98.1–98.5%, and 99.3% identity, respectively. The five loci (18S rDNA, 28S rDNA, ITS-1 , cox1 and rpoB ) showed different levels of interspecific sequence similarity with other closely related species of Sarcocystis (e.g., 99.8%, 99.0–99.2%, 89.3-89.7%, 98.5%, and 97.5%, respectively, with S . anasi ). Phylogenetic analysis based on three of the loci (18S rDNA, cox1 , and rpoB ) revealed that S . wenzeli formed an independent clade with Sarcocystis spp. that employ geese or ducks as intermediate hosts and canines as the known or presumed definitive host. Conclusions: The sequences of 28S rDNA and rpoB reported here constitute the first records of genetic markers of Sarcocystis spp. in chickens. Based on molecular analysis, S . wenzeli might be responsible for the neurological disease in chickens, and ITS-1 and rpoB are more suitable for discriminating it from closely related Sarcocystis spp. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that S . wenzeli presents a close relationship with Sarcocystis spp. in geese or ducks.