bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification and characterization of circRNA during muscle development in different breeds of cattle
Authors: Liu Ruili , Liu Xianxun , Bai Xuejin , Xiao Chaozhu , Dong Yajuan
Published: January 2020

Background Black cattle are a new breed of cattle that are developed by applying modern biotechnology, such as somatic cloning, and conventional breeding methods to Luxi cattle. It is very important to study the function and regulatory mechanism of circRNAs in muscle differentiation among different breeds to improve meat quality and meat production performance and to provide new ideas for beef cattle meat quality improvements and new breed development. Therefore, the goal of this study was to sequence and identify circRNAs in muscle tissues of different breeds of cattle. We used RNA-seq to identify circRNAs in the muscles of two breeds of black cattle (Black and Luxi). Results We identified 14640 circRNAs and found 655 differentially expressed circRNAs. We also analysed the classification and characteristics of circRNAs in muscle tissue. GO and KEGG analyses were used on the parental genes of circRNAs. They were mainly involved in a variety of biological processes, such as muscle fibre development, smooth muscle cell proliferation, bone system morphogenesis, tight junctions and the MAPK, AMPK and mTOR signalling pathways. In addition, we used miRanda to predict the interactions between 15 circRNAs and 12 miRNAs. Based on the above assays, we identified circRNAs (circ0001048, circ0001103, circ0001159, circ0003719, circ0003794, circ0003721, circ0003720, circ0001519, circ0001530, circ0005060, circ0006589, circ0000181, circ0000190, circ0010558, circ0010577) that may play an important role in the regulation of muscle growth and development. Conclusion Our results provide more information about circRNAs regulating muscle development in different breeds of cattle and lay a solid foundation for future experiments.
Nursing and midwifery students’ experiences and perception of their clinical learning environment in Malawi: A mixed method study
Authors: Mbakaya Balwani Chingatichifwe , Kalembo Fatch Welcome , Zgambo Maggie , Konyani Alice , Lungu Florence , Tveit Bodil , Kaasen Anne , Simango Modesta , Bvumbwe Thokozani
Published: January 2020

BackgroundThe clinical learning environment is an important part of the nursing and midwifery training as it helps students to integrate theory into clinical practice. However, not all clinical learning environments foster positive learning. The aim of this study was to assess the experiences and perception of nursing and midwifery students of their clinical learning environment in Malawi.Methods A mixed-methods approach was used to collect data from nursing and midwifery students. Data were collected using a questionnaire and focus group discussions. Questionnaire data were collected using the Clinical Learning Environment Inventory (CLEI). Data from focus group discussions were collected using an interview guide which had questions about clinical learning, supervision, assessment, communication and resources. Quantitative data were analysed by independent t-test and multivariate linear regression while qualitative data were analysed by thematic analysisResults A total of 126 participants completed the questionnaire data while 30 students participated in the focus group discussions. Satisfaction subscale had the highest mean score (M = 26.93, SD = 4.82) while Individualisation had the lowest mean score (M = 18.01, SD =3.50). Multiple linear regression analysis showed statistically significant association between Satisfaction with clinical learning environment and Personalization (β = 0.50, p = < 0.001), and Task orientation (β =0.16 p= < 0.05). Teaching and learning resources, hostile environment, poor relationship with a qualified staff, absence of clinical supervisors, and lack of resources were some of the challenges faced by students in their clinical learning environment.Conclusion The findings of this study show that although satisfaction with clinical learning environment had the highest scores, students encountered multifaceted challenges in their clinical learning environment. A collaborative effort from training institutions and hospitals is needed to better support students with their clinical learning.
The Impact of Patient Safety Culture and the Leader Coaching Behavior of Nurses on the Intention to Report Errors: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Chegini Zahra , JAFARABADI Mohammad ASGHARI , KAKEMAM Edris , JANATI Ali
Published: January 2020

Background There is growing interest in examining the factors affecting the reporting of errors by nurses. However, little research has been conducted into the effects of perceived patient safety culture and leader coaching behavior of nurses on the intention to report errors.Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted amongst 256 nurses in the emergency departments of 18 public and private hospitals in Tabriz, northwest Iran. Participants completed the self- administered questionnaires and the data was analyzed using linear regression analysis.Results Overall, 43% of nurses had an intention to report errors; 50% of respondents reported that their nursing managers demonstrated high levels of coaching. With regard to patient safety culture, areas of strength and weakness were “Teamwork within Units” (PRR = 66.80%) and “Non-punitive response errors” (PRR = 19.66%). Regression findings highlighted a significant association between an intention to report errors and patient safety culture (B=0.123, CI 95%: 0.005 to 0.328, P = 0.026), leader coaching behavior (B=0.172, CI 95%: 0.066 to 0.347, P = 0.004) and nurses’ educational status (B=0. 787, 95% CI: -.064 to 1.638, P = 0.048). Conclusions Further research is needed to assess how interventions addressing patient safety culture and leader coaching behaviors might increase the intention to report errors.
Clinical learning environment of nursing and midwifery students in Ghana
Authors: Ziba Florence Assibi , Yakong Vida Nyagre , Ali Zakari
Published: January 2020

Background Data on student experience of the clinical learning environment in Ghana are scarce. We therefore aimed to assess students’ evaluation of the clinical learning environment and the factors that influence their learning experience.Methods This was a cross-sectional survey of 225 undergraduate nursing and midwifery students. We used the Clinical Learning Environment and Supervision + Nurse Teacher (CLES +T) evaluation scale to assess students’ experience of their clinical placement. The association between student demographic characteristics and clinical placement experience was determined using t-test or ANOVA.Results Most of the sampled students were Nurses (67%) and in the third year of training (81%). More students received supervision from a nurse (57%) during clinical placement and team supervision (67%) was the most common during clinical placement. Nursing students were more likely to rate their clinical experience better than midwifery students (p=0.002). Students who had increased contact with private supervisors were also more likely to rate their experience higher (p=0.002). Clinical experience was also rated higher by students who received successful supervision compared to those who had unsuccessful or team supervision (p=0.001).Conclusion Team supervision is high in health facilities where students undertake clinical placement in Ghana. Frequent contact with private supervisor and successful supervision are associated with better rating of clinical experience among Ghanaian undergraduate nursing and midwifery students.
Utilization of Denture Adhesives and the Factors Associated with its Use: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: BO TUN MIN , Hama Yohei , AKIBA NORIHISA , MINAKUCHI SHUNSUKE
Published: January 2020

Background An increase in the number of elderly edentulous patients likely leads to a greater demand for complete or partial dentures. However, there are some related problems such as retention and stability in both complete and partial dentures. In order to solve these problems, denture adhesives are widely utilized by denture wearers. Since denture adhesives have positive and negative features, dentists need to know the kinds of denture adhesive users for the purpose of giving instruction to denture wearers on how to use denture adhesives properly and effectively. The aim of this study was to examine the utilization of denture adhesives and to determine the factors associated with such use through a web-based survey system. Methods Seven closed-ended questionnaires were developed for the web-based survey system. A table on the utilization of denture adhesives by denture wearers was first presented. Thereafter, Fisher’s exact tests were performed to determine the difference in the denture adhesive usage rate by gender, type of denture, last dental visit, and smoking. Moreover, multivariate-adjusted logistic regression analysis was performed with denture adhesive use or non-use as the dependent variable and the other items as independent variables. Statistical analyses were performed for all denture wearers, complete denture wearers, and partial denture wearers respectively. Results A total of 1470 denture wearers in Japan participated in this study. Of these, 318 used denture adhesives, while 212(66.7%) used cream; 74(23.3%) used home liner; 25(7.9%) used powder; 4(1.3%) used sheet; 3(0.9%) used several types. Fisher’s exact test revealed that the ratios of using denture adhesives were significantly higher for complete denture wearers (p<0.001), last dental visit within one year (p=0.005) and smokers (p=0.005). For partial denture wearers, the ratio was significantly higher in smokers (p=0.262). Multivariate adjusted logistic regression revealed that denture adhesive use or non-use were significantly associated with the type of denture and smoking in all denture wearers, and just smoking in partial denture wearers. Conclusions In all denture wearers, complete denture wearers and smokers significantly use denture adhesives. On the other hand, smokers significantly use denture adhesives for partial denture wearers.
Is it necessary to use tobramycin-dexamethasone eye ointment prophylactically in eyes at the end of intraocular surgery?
Authors: Zhang Wei , Han Han , Feng Kang , Wang Xiaohong , Du Mei , Meng Xiangda , Liu Yuanyuan , Huang Bo , Brant Rodrigo , Yan Hua
Published: January 2020

Objective There are no data available regarding the complications associated with using antibiotic ointment at the end of intraocular surgery. This study aimed to explore the necessity of using ocular tobramycin-dexamethasone prophylactically at the end of intraocular surgery.Methods This was a retrospective cohort study of patients who received intraocular surgery at Tianjin Medical University General Hospital from January 2015 to December 2017. The patients were grouped according to whether they received tobramycin-dexamethasone eye ointment or not after surgery. The Tobramycin dexamethasone eye ointment was sampled to observe bacterial contamination pathogens at 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 6, 8, 24, 36, 48, 72, and 168 h after being opened.Results A total of 3811 eyes in 3811 patients (mean age of 63±12 years) were included: 2397 eyes that received prophylactic tobramycin-dexamethasone eye ointment and 1414 eyes that did not. The overall rate of endophthalmitis was 0.08% (3/3811) in our study, all in the eye ointment group (0.12%, 3/2397); no patients developed endophthalmitis in the non-ointment group (P=0.184). The anterior chamber reactions 1 day after surgery were more serious in the eye ointment group compared with the non-ointment group (all P<0.05), but there were no statistically significant differences at 1 month postoperatively (all P>0.05). The contamination rate was 0% at all time points over 7 days.Conclusion Prophylactic tobramycin-dexamethasone eye ointment did not decrease the risk of endophthalmitis after intraocular surgery. Preoperative antibiotics and standardized surgical disinfection procedures probably play important roles in the prevention of endophthalmitis.
Medication Administration Error and Associated Factors among Nurses in Referral Hospitals, Amhara region, Ethiopia, 2019
Authors: Alebachew Wubet , Tsegaye Dejene , Alem Girma , Tesema Zenaw
Published: January 2020

Background: Medication administration error is a failure in the treatment process resulting in potential harm to the patient. Medication errors are the leading causes of mistrust in the healthcare system, inducing corrective therapy and prolonged hospitalization thereby producing extra costs and even death. These errors are most common and can occur through failures in any of the ten rights of medication administration. About 10% of the overall preventable harm to hospitalized patients is attributed to the wrong use of medications. However, there is limited data regarding the magnitude and determinants of medication administration errors both nationally and in the study area in particular. Methods: A multicenter hospital based, cross-sectional study design was employed on a sample of 422 nurses selected by simple random sampling technique. Pre-tested structured questionnaire and observational checklist were used for data collection from March 1-30/2019. The collected data were cleaned, coded and entered into Epi-data version 4.2 and exported to STATA version 14. Binary logistic regression model was considered and those variables with P<0.25 in the bivariable analysis were included in to final model after which statistical significance was declared at P< 0.05 using adjusted odds ratio at 95% confidence interval. The study findings were presented using tables and figures. Multicollinerity was diagnosed using standard error and correlation matrix. Result: From the overall nurses, 239 (57.7%) of them made medication administration error in the last 12 months. Lack of training [AOR=2.20; 95% CI (1.09, 4.46)], unavailability of guideline [AOR=1.65; 95% CI (1.03, 2.79)], poor communication while facing problems [AOR=3.31; 95% CI (2.04, 5.37)], interruption [AOR = 3.37, 95 % CI (2.15, 5.28)] and failure to follow medication administration rights [AOR=1.647; 95% CI (1.00, 2.49)] were significantly associated with medication administration errors. Conclusion and recommendation: Medication administration error was high in Amhara referral hospitals. Therefore, interventions like developing guideline, providing training and developing strategies to minimize distracters should be given much emphasis by different stakeholders to decrease the burden of medication error.
Magnitude of Turnover Intention and Associated Factors Among Nurses Working in Emergency Departments of Governmental Hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: A cross sectional institutional based study.
Authors: Aniley Andualem Wubetie , Taye Biniyam , Girma Biruk
Published: January 2020

Background Emergency Nurses’ turnover is defined as resignation of a licensed nurse from emergency department or hospital due to various factors. Actual Turnover is expected to increase as the intention increases. Turnover from Emergency Department can be nurses’ preference of working in other departments within the same hospital or totally to leave the hospital. Emergency Department nurses are especially vulnerable to turnover because of their increased potential for developing burnout and compassion fatigue in which work environment has a great role.Objective To assess the factors that affect turnover intention among nurses working in emergency departments of selected governmental hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.Methods Institutional based cross-sectional study was carried out on 102 nurses in three selected governmental hospitals, Addis Ababa from February 19 to march 31, 2018, using structured pre tested self-administered questionnaire. Logistic regression model was used and adjusted odds ratio with 95% confidence interval was calculated to identify associated factors.Result A total of 102 respondents were involved with a response rate of 91.1%. Among them, 79 (77.5%) respondents had intention to leave the hospital. Significant predictors of nurses’ intention to leave their jobs are educational status (adjusted Odds ratio (OR) =4.700, 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.033, 590.772; p <0.048), monthly income of Less than 3145 ETB (adjusted OR=6.049, 95% CI=1.056,34.641; p <0.043) and professional autonomy (adjusted OR=0.191, 95% CI=0.040, 0.908; p <0.037).Conclusion and recommendation more than 75% of the respondents has intention to leave the organization. Educational status; monthly income and autonomy were significantly associated with emergency nurses‟ turnover intention in three governmental hospitals. Emergency leaders and hospital managers should have made efforts to enhance nurses decision making for patient care activities and shared decision over work or unit related activities.
Short term and long term survival rate and risk factors of graft rejection after deceased donor kidney transplantation: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Aghamir Seyed Mohammad Kazem , Saatchi Mohammad
Published: January 2020

The purpose of the current meta-analysis is to determine the short-term and long-term graft and patient survival after deceased donor (DD) transplantation, as well as to determine prognostic factors. Method : Articles published until March 2019 in PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases, reporting short-term and/or long term graft and patient survival were searched. In addition to this, we included articles that analyzed the hazard ratio (HR) of graft rejection and/or patient death caused by DD related risk factors. The summary measures of this study included the survival rate, the HR of graft rejection, and patient death in response to DD related risk factors. This study, which is the first comprehensive meta-analysis of graft and patient survival rates after transplantation from the deceased donor, showed that overall short and long-term survival of graft and patient is desirable. In addition to this, it confirms that ECD and DCD recipients have a lower graft survival rate than standard donors.
High-trans fatty acid and high-sugar diets can cause mice with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis with liver fibrosis and potential pathogenesis
Authors: Xin Xin , Cai Bei-yu , Chen Cheng , Tian Hua-jie , Wang Xin , Hu Yi-Yang , Qin Feng
Published: January 2020

Aims To establish a mouse model of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) within liver fibrosis using a high-fat and high-carbohydrate diet (HFHC) and to analyze potential pathogenesis using a transcriptome microarray. Methods Sixty mice were stratified by weight and randomly divided into HFHC model and control (Con) groups, with 30 mice in each group. Both HFHC and Con mice were euthanized at 0, 20 and 30 weeks. The following analyses were performed: biochemical analysis; histological assessment; Col-I, α-SMA and TGF-β1 protein and mRNA expression levels; and transcriptomic gene chip analysis. Results Compared with the Con group at each time point, the body weight and liver wet weight of the HFHC model group mice were significantly higher. At 30 weeks, ALT, AST, FBG and FINS levels or activities and TG and HYP contents in the HFHC model group were significantly elevated. Severe steatosis was present in the liver tissues from HFHC group mice. Substantial perisinusoidal fibrosis with a cage-like structure and bridging formations were observed in the liver. Col-I, α-SMA and TGF-β1 protein and mRNA expression levels in liver tissues from HFHC mice increased over time. Compared with the Con group, the HFHC group had 151 differentially expressed genes that were involved in 41 signaling pathways. Conclusions After 30 weeks of a HFHC diet, the mice exhibited substantial liver fibrosis, hepatic steatosis, ballooning degeneration and inflammation. The formation of an experimental NASH combined with liver fibrosis mouse model may be related to ECM-receptor interaction, Toll-like receptor signaling and other signaling pathways.
Genome-wide genetic structure and selection signatures for color in 10 traditional Chinese yellow-feathered chicken breeds
Authors: Huang Xunhe , Otecko Newton O. , Peng Minsheng , Weng Zhuoxian , Li Weina , Chen Jiebo , Zhong Ming , Zhong Fusheng , Jin Sihua , Geng Zhaoyu , Luo Wei , He Danlin , Ma Cheng , Han Jianlin , Ommeh Sheila C. , Zhang Yaping , Zhang Xiquan , Du Bingwang
Published: January 2020

Background Yellow-feathered chickens (YFCs) have a long history in China. They are well-known for the nutritional and commercial importance attributable to their yellow color phenotype. Currently, there is a huge paucity in knowledge of the genetic determinants responsible for phenotypic and biochemical properties of these iconic chickens. This study aimed to uncover the genetic structure and the molecular underpinnings of the YFCs trademark coloration.Results The whole-genomes of 100 YFCs from 10 major traditional breeds and 10 Huaibei partridge chickens from China were re-sequenced. Comparative population genomics based on autosomal SNPs revealed three geographically based clusters among the YFCs. Compared to other Chinese indigenous chicken genomes incorporated from previous studies, a closer genetic proximity within YFC breeds than between YFC breeds and other chicken populations is evident. Through genome-wide scans for selective sweeps, we identified RALY heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein ( RALY ), leucine rich repeat containing G protein-coupled receptor 4 ( LGR4 ), solute carrier family 23 member 2 ( SLC23A2 ), and solute carrier family 2 member 14 ( SLC2A14 ), besides the classical beta-carotene dioxygenase 2 ( BCDO2 ), as major candidates pigment determining genes in the YFCs.Conclusion We provide the first comprehensive genomic data of the YFCs. Our analyses show phylogeographical patterns among the YFCs and potential candidate genes giving rise to the yellow color trait of the YFCs. This study lays the foundation for further research on the genome-phenotype cross-talks that define important poultry traits and for formulating genetic breeding and conservation strategies for the YFCs.
Concentrations of 137Cs radiocaesium in the organs and tissues of low-dose-exposed wild Japanese monkeys
Authors: Omi Toshinori , Nakiri Sachie , Nakanishi Setuko , Ishii Naomi , Uno Taiki , Konno Fumiharu , Inagaki Takeshi , Sakamoto Atsushi , Shito Masayuki , Udagawa Chihiro , Tada Naomi , Ochiai Kazuhiko , Kato Takuya , Kawamoto Yoshi , Tsuchida Shuichi , Hayama Shin-ichi
Published: January 2020

Objectives Following the massive earthquake that struck eastern Japan on March 11, 2011, a large amount of radioactive material was released into the environment from the damaged reactor of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant (FDNPP). After the FDNPP accident, radiocaesium was first detected in muscle samples from wild Japanese monkeys exposed to radioactive materials, and haematologic effects, changes in head size, and delayed body weight gain were also reported, but little is known about the distribution of 137Cs in the organs and tissues of wild Japanese monkeys. Results We detected the 137Cs in various organ and tissue samples of 10 wild Japanese monkeys inhabiting the forested areas of Fukushima City that were captured between July and August 2012.Among muscle, brain, heart, kidney, liver, lung, and spleen, muscle exhibited the highest and the brain the lowest 137Cs concentration. The concentration (mean±SD) of137Cs in muscle, brain, heart, kidney, liver, lung, and spleen was 77 ± 66, 26 ± 22, 41 ± 35, 49 ± 41, 41 ± 38, 53 ± 41, and 53 ± 51 Bq/kg, respectively. These results can help us understand the biological effects of long-term internal radiation exposure in non-human primates.
The epidemiology of P. falciparum and P. vivax in East Sepik Province, Papua New Guinea, pre- and post-implementation of national malaria control efforts
Authors: Kattenberg Johanna Helena , Gumal Dulcie L. , Ome-Kaius Maria , Kiniboro Benson , Philip Matthew , Jally Shadrach , Kasian Bernadine , Sambale Naomi , Siba Peter M. , Karl Stephan , Barry Alyssa E. , Felger Ingrid , Kazura James , Mueller Ivo , Robinson Leanne J.
Published: January 2020

BackgroundIn the past decade, national malaria control efforts in Papua New Guinea (PNG) have received renewed support, facilitating nationwide distribution of free long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs), as well as improvements in access to parasite-confirmed diagnosis and effective artemisinin-combination therapy in 2011-12. MethodsTo study the effects of these intensified control efforts on the epidemiology and transmission of P. falciparum and P. vivax infections and investigate risk factors at the individual and household level, two cross-sectional surveys were conducted in the East Sepik Province of PNG; one in 2005, before the scale-up of national campaigns and one in late 2012-early 2013, after 2 rounds of LLIN distribution (2008 and 2011-12). Differences between studies were investigated using chi-square (χ²), Fischer’s exact tests and Student’s t-test. Multivariable logistic regression models were built to investigate factors associated with infection at the individual and household level. ResultsThe prevalence of P. falciparum and P. vivax in surveyed communities decreased from 55% (2005) to 9% (2013) and 36% to 6%, respectively. The mean multiplicity of infection (MOI) decreased from 1.8 to 1.6 for P. falciparum (p=0.08) and from 2.2 to 1.4 for P. vivax (p<0.001). Alongside these reductions, a shift towards a more uniform distribution of infections and illness across age groups was observed but there was greater heterogeneity across the study area and within the study villages. Microscopy positive infections and clinical cases in the household were associated with high rate infection households (>50% of household members with Plasmodium infection).ConclusionAfter the scale-up of malaria control interventions in PNG between 2008 and 2012, there was a substantial reduction in P. falciparum and P. vivax infection rates in the studies villages in East Sepik Province. Understanding the extent of local heterogeneity in malaria transmission and the driving factors is critical to identify and implement targeted control strategies to ensure the ongoing success of malaria control in PNG and inform the development of tools required to achieve elimination. In household-based interventions, diagnostics with a sensitivity similar to (expert) microscopy could be used to identify and target high rate households.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices Towards Added Sugar Consumption among Undergraduate Female Students in Madinah, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Mumena Walaa A , Alamri Asma A , Mahrous Alhanouf A , Alharbi Bushra M , Almohaimeed Jumanah S , Hakeem Maysaa I , Kutbi Hebah A
Published: January 2020

Background: Intake of added sugar among populations in developed countries is linked to the increased prevalence of many non-communicable diseases; however, data regarding added sugar intake in developing countries are still lacking. This study aimed to evaluate knowledge, attitude, and practices towards added sugar intake and the associations with nutrient intake and weight status. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 190 healthy undergraduate female students of Taibah University, Madinah. Demographics, dietary intake, and anthropometrics (height, weight, and waist circumference (WC)) were collected during face-to-face interviews. Results : Even though 55.8% of students (n=106) were aware about the health consequences of excessive intake of added sugar, only 32.6% (n=62) made an effort to reduce their added sugar intake. Nine percent of students (n=16) consumed carbonated soft drinks daily, while 16.1% of students (n=30) consumed fruit drinks daily. Eighty-two percent (n=155) of the sample exceeded the recommendation of added sugar of <5% of total energy intake. Students who exceeded the recommendation of added sugar consumed lower quantities of protein, iron, and vitamin D. Added sugar intake was linked to nutrient intake, but not the weight status. Conclusions : Our findings indicated excessive intake of added sugar among young females. The observed inverse relationship between added sugar and macro- and micronutrient intakes highlight the urgent need for expanded efforts to limit the added sugar and to improve dietary quality of young population in Saudi Arabia.
Molecular characterization, antibiotic resistance pattern and capsular types of invasive Streptococcus pneumonia isolated from clinical samples in Tehran, Iran
Authors: Beheshti Maryam , Jabalameli Fereshteh , Feizabadi Mohammad Mehdi , Hahsemi Farhad Bonakdar , Beigverdi Reza , Emaneini Mohammad
Published: January 2020

Background: Streptococcus pneumoniae causes serious infections worldwide. The aim of this study was to determine the molecular characteristic, antibiotic resistance pattern and capsular types of invasive S. pneumonia in Tehran, Iran. Results: Of the 44 pneumococcal invasive isolates, 39 (89%) were isolated from children and 5 (11%) from adults. The results show that all pneumococcal isolates were susceptible to linezolid but had varying resistance to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (86%), erythromycin (73%), tetracycline (66%), clindamycin (43%), penicillin (16%), chloramphenicol (14%) and levofloxacin (2%). The range of erythromycin, tetracycline and penicillin MICs were 2 - ≥ 256 μg/mL, 4 - ≥ 48 μg/mL, and 0.047 - ≥ 256 respectively. All of the penicillin resistant isolates were multidrug resistant (MDR) and in addition to penicillin were resistant to tetracycline, erythromycin and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. The most common capsular types detected in 64% of the pneumococcal isolates was 6A/B, 19A, 15A, 23F. The multilocus sequence typing (MLST) of 10 pneumococcal isolates revealed 9 different sequence types (STs), including ST 15139 (capsular type 19A) and ST 15140 (capsular type 23F), which have not previously been reported.Conclusions: The study revealed that the S. pneumonia isolates belonged to diverse capsular types and clones with high rate of resistance to erythromycin, tetracycline, and penicillin.
Root-associated microbiomes of Gymnadenia conopsea under the combined effect of plant geographical location and developmental stage
Authors: Mei Zhinan , Lin Min , Xiong Hui , Xiang Xuechuan , Zhou Zelin , Liang lifeng
Published: January 2020

Background: Gymnadenia conopsea (L.) R. Br. is an important perennial terrestrial photosynthetic orchid species whose microbiomes are thought to play an important role in promoting its growth and health. However, the assemblage of G. conopsea root-associated microbial communities is poorly understood. Results: The compositions of fungal and bacterial communities from the roots and corresponding soil samples of G. conopsea across distinct biogeographical regions from two significantly different altitudes were characterized at the vegetative and reproductive growth stages. The geographical location, developmental stage and compartment were factors contributing to microbiome variation in G. conopsea. Predominant fungal taxa include Ascomycota , Basidiomycota , Mortierellomycota and Chytridiomycota , whereas Proteobacteria , Bacteroidetes , Acidobacteria , Actinobacteria , Verrucomicrobia , Chloroflexi , TM7 and Planctomycetes were predominant bacterial taxa. The fungi classes of Leotiomycetes , Agaricomycetes , Eurotiomycetes and Mortierellomycetes, as well as bacterial taxa Actinobacteria were more abundant in G. conopsea from higher altitude location. Moreover, Dark septate endophytes and Arbuscular mycorrhiza may have important role for G. conopsea to adapt to high altitude environment. Conclusions: Using G. conopsea as a model, we report a comprehensive analysis of the structural and functional composition of the G. conopsea root-associated microbiomes. Contrary to previous studies, biogeography was the main factor influencing the microbial community in this study. Although the microbial composition varied greatly by location, the symbiotic microorganisms of G. conopsea still have certain specificity. This study offers a robust knowledge of G. conopsea root-associated microbiomes and lends guidelines to the investigation of adaptation mechanism of G. conopsea in high altitude environment. Our results also laying a foundation for harnessing the microbiome for sustainable G. conopsea production. Moreover, these results might be generally applicable to other Orchidaceae plants.
The occurrence, origin, and fate of water in chromitites in ophiolites
Authors: Su Ben-Xun , Robinson Paul T. , Chen Chen , Xiao Yan , Melcher Frank , Bai Yang , Gu Xiao-Yan , Uysal Ibrahim , Lenaz Davide
Published: January 2020

We present petrological investigations and mineral chemistry of several Tethyan ophiolites to reveal the occurrence, origin, and fate of water in podiform chromitites. The results show that clinopyroxene and olivine in chromitites have H2O contents of 801–366 and 53–17 ppm, respectively. The highest water contents of olivine occur in massive chromitite and the lowest always in the clinopyroxene-bearing ores because much of the available hydrous fluids was taken up by the clinopyroxene during crystallization. The major and trace elemental and Li isotopic compositions of clinopyroxene associated with chromite and olivine in podiform chromitites indicate formation from a mixture of surface hydrous fluids on chromite grains and evolved melts from which olivine crystallized. The hydrous fluids initially originated from dehydration of a subducting slab as revealed by Li isotopic compositions of clinopyroxene and olivine in the chromitites. High fluid/rock ratios facilitated concentration of chromite to form chromitite, suppressing crystallization of olivine. The hydrous fluids that were collected on the chromite grain surface during crystallization allowed chromite grains to rise via decreasing density in the form of bubbles, thus promoting their gathering and concentration. The fate of these hydrous fluids depends on ambient physical and chemical conditions. Mostly they hydrate adjacent olivine grains in the chromitite or penetrate the surrounding dunite envelope. In some cases, the fluids dissolve into silicate melts to produce water-bearing clinopyroxene and/or hydrous minerals, such as amphibole, or infiltrate silicate and chromite grains to form inclusions, which may exsolve later in the form of mineral lamellae. Our investigations provide direct natural evidence for the presence and importance of water in the formation and evolution of chromite deposits, as inferred by earlier experimental studies.
WASHBACK OF BROADCAST PROJECT-BASED ASSESSMENT FOR TOURISM 4.0 ERA ON STUDENTS’ LEARNING
Authors: Palupiningsih Angesti , Kusumastiti Weka
Published: January 2020

Language assessment should support the learning process. Therefore, studying the washback of the assessment process is important to evaluate whether the assessment supports the learning process. English for tourism students is part of English for Specific Purposes (ESP). Therefore, the appropriate assessment should be authentic since the need of their English is to perform their English based on their future professional setting. In Tourism 4.0 Era, tourism is not only dealing with welcoming guests, guiding, or arranging an itinerary but also broadcasting using internet media. One of the efforts to prepare the students with those demands is conducting the broadcast project-based assessment. This research aims at identifying its washback in the students’ learning. In-depth interview was employed as the data collection method. The results show that motivation and learning improvement were the washback of broadcast project-based assessment on learning.
ISOLATED AND INTEGRATED GRAMMAR TEACHING IN TERTIARY EFL CONTEXT: INDONESIAN TEACHERS’ BELIEFS
Authors: Murtisari Elisabet Titik , Salvadora Laura , Hastuti Gita
Published: January 2020

While there are a lot of debates surrounding isolated and integrated grammar teaching, there is still limited research on their uses in EFL settings with larger class sizes and different learning environments. To fill in this gap, this case study investigates teachers’ beliefs toward isolated grammar teaching (Focus on Forms/FoFs) and integrated grammar teaching (largely a version of Focus on Form/FonF) in the context of EFL tertiary language study in Indonesia. The data were obtained by conducting semi-structured interviews with 10 Indonesian teachers of a private university’s English language program. In general, the teachers tended to value one of the approaches for different aspects, but there was less consensus on their effectiveness to promote students’ ability to apply grammar in context. In spite of this, most considered the approaches to complement each other. Nevertheless, over half of the participants indicated that isolated grammar teaching should assume a primary role in their context for practical reasons. Drawing on mostly teachers' experience in grammar teaching, this small-scale research offers more crucial insights into how isolated and integrated grammar teaching like FonFs and FonF are viewed at a more practical level amidst controversies on how to best teach grammar.
OSMANLI AİLE YAPISININ MİLLET SİSTEMİ İÇİNDEKİ KONUMU
Authors: KOÇ Elif Merve
Published: January 2020

Çalışmada ilk olarak Osmanlı Devleti içerisinde yaşayan toplulukların, idari yapılanmalarında uygulanan millet sistemi ele alınmıştır. İslam devletlerinin temel esasına dayanan “ümmet” anlayışıyla yürütülen bu idari sistem; toplulukların aile yapısına da sirayet etmiştir. Osmanlı Devleti’ne özgü sosyal düzen olan millet sisteminde bireyler. Dâhil oldukları mabetler ekseninde idare olunurdu. Osmanlı topraklarında yaşayan topluluklar, dini aidiyet ile zikredilir; mahalli oluşumlar, içtimai düzen ve toplumsal normlar din ekseninde özerk bir formda şekillenirdi. Osmanlı Devleti, her milletin kendi idari düzenini yürütmesine izin vermekteydi. Aynı topraklar üzerinde ayrı dil, din ve ırka mensup topluluklar bir arada yaşamış; bu durum topluluklara benzer sosyal alışkanlıklara ve kültür etkileşimlerine sahip olma imkânı sağlamıştır. Farklı din ve mezhep isimleriyle anılan milletlerin aile müessesine bakışı, evlilik ve çocuk sayıları gibi detayların incelendiği çalışma; sosyal hayattaki benzerlik ve farklılıkları ortaya koymayı amaçlamıştır. Toplum hayatının en temel birimi olan ailenin, Osmanlı millet sistemi içerisindeki konumu çalışmanın asıl konusunu oluşturmaktadır.
Evaluating joint operation rules for connecting tunnels between two multipurpose dams
Authors: Jeong Ji-Woo , Kim Young-Oh , Seo Seung Beom
Published: January 2020

This study aims to provide a practically efficient approach for determining the most efficient joint operation rule for two reservoirs connected by a waterway tunnel. For this purpose, the connecting tunnel's effect was assessed and three heuristic joint operation rules accounting for the connecting tunnel were evaluated. A standard operation policy with the connecting tunnel led to positive effects on the water resource system of the target basin with regard to a reliable water supply. The connecting tunnel provides an additional water supply of 12.4 million m3/year to the basin, and the reliability of the two reservoirs increased. Among the three rules, the equivalent reservoir (ER) rule led to the most positive effect on water supply. We found that the ER rule could maximize the positive effects of the connecting tunnel by maintaining the effective water storage rates of the two reservoirs. Moreover, the effects of hydrologic uncertainty on the joint operation rules were discussed using the synthetically generated multiple streamflow traces.
Reasons for the homogenization of the seasonal discharges in the Yangtze River
Authors: Chai Yuanfang , Zhu Boyuan , Yue Yao , Yang Yunping , Li Sixuan , Ren Jinqiu , Xiong Haibin , Cui Xin , Yan Xia , Li Yitian
Published: January 2020

Allocations of water discharges between dry and flood seasons along the Yangtze River have significantly homogenized during the past decades, mainly due to precipitation change, regulation of key hydraulic works on the mainstream like the Three Gorges Reservoir (TGR), and the construction of numerous dams scattered in sub-basins. To reveal the specific roles of these three major factors in changing the seasonal discharges of the whole Yangtze River, this paper analyzes daily discharges during 1961–2014 at 16 hydrological stations from the far upper reach (the Jinshajiang Reach) to the estuary. We found that precipitation has only homogenized in areas 427 km downstream of the TGR, contributing 9.5–23.6% to the homogenized discharges. Even though the TGR is the largest hydraulic works in the world, it only contributes 17.5–27.2% to the downstream homogenization of seasonal discharge. By comparison, dams in sub-regions are a major contributor (61.1–100%) in the homogenized reach either upper or lower to the TGR. Of all the sub-basins, dams in Hanjiang River basin have the most significant effect (16.9%) on changing the allocations of seasonal discharges to the sea, followed by Wujiang (11.5%), Jialingjiang (10.1%), Yalongjiang (9.4%), Qingjiang (8.4%), and Daduhe-Minjiang (4.7%) river basins.
Investigation of anaerobic side-stream phosphorus recovery and its effect on the performance of mainstream EBPR subjected to low-consumption
Authors: Ma Juan , Yang Ruichun , Yu Xiaojun , Zhao Yuantian , Sang Qianqian , Wang Fangjun , Chen Yongzhi
Published: January 2020

In this study, phosphate-rich supernatant at the end of anaerobic phase was extracted by a certain side-stream ratio for chemical precipitation to investigate the optimal conditions for phosphorus recovery. The effect of side-stream reaction on the performance of the mainstream enhanced biological phosphorus removal (EBPR) system was also explored. The experiment was carried out in a sequencing batch reactor (SBR) operated in an alternating anaerobic/aerobic mode with dissolved oxygen controlled at 1.0 mg · L−1. The results showed that the optimum magnesium source,temperature, stirring speed and reaction equilibrium time for side-stream phosphorus recovery were: MgCl2 · 6H2O, 25 °C, 150 rpm and 20 min, respectively. It was also observed that the average phosphorus removal efficiency of the mainstream system maintained as high as 90.7% during the side-stream extraction period despite insufficient time for phosphate uptake under limited dissolved oxygen condition and phosphate deprivation of polyphosphate-accumulating organisms (PAOs). Besides, the sludge settling performance of the mainstream EBPR system decreased with no sludge loss. Afterwards, phosphorus removal and sludge settling performance were restored with dismissing side-stream phosphorus recovery. This study suggested that side-stream extraction of anaerobic supernatant from a mainstream EBPR subjected to low dissolved oxygen conditions for chemical phosphorus recovery was feasible and environmentally friendly.
DIAGNÓSTICO DO POTENCIAL PARA CRIAÇÃO DE DESTINOS TURÍSTICOS INTELIGENTES NO ESTADO DE SÃO PAULO, BRASIL
Authors: Bonfato Antonio Carlos , Athiê Alessandro Augusto Rogick , Pelegrinetti Sarah Marcela
Published: January 2020

O objetivo do estudo foi gerar dados contribuam para a melhora do processo do planejamento turístico municipal no Estado de São Paulo, Brasil. Através da análise das atuais condições da prática do turismo em 114 municípios paulistas, o estudo buscou levantar quais são as fragilidades que afetam os destinos turísticos e quais desses destinos teriam condições de se tornar um destino turístico inteligente no curto, médio e longo prazos. Os resultados aferidos devem gerar um ranking de prioridades para a implantação desses programas de. Os parâmetros que formaram a base par a análise foram divididos em sete Indicadores: condições gerais, sustentabilidade ambiental, sustentabilidade turística, acessibilidade, qualidade de vida, conectividade e sistema de informações turística. Após analisados os dados mostraram que nenhum município possui condições para implantação de um destino turístico no curto prazo e alguns podem recebe-lo no médio prazo. A metodologia envolveu pesquisas descritivas com fontes primárias, com preenchimento de questionários on-line, aliadas às análises de natureza qualitativa.
DOES THE REPEAT TOURIST SPEND MORE THAN THE FIRST TIME? A CONTRIBUTION TO THE LITERATURE
Authors: TAVARES JEAN MAX , Ivanov Stanislav , Cobanoglu Cihan
Published: January 2020

There isn´t a consensus about the impact of a first time or a repeat tourist on local economy since that the findings of studies comparing the amount of money spent by the two categories of tourists are inconclusive. We interviewed 500 people who went to any tourist destination more than once through a virtual platform in Brazil. This article uses Principal Component Analysis to analyze this issue. The results identified four types of repeat tourists, who tend to spend less than first-time tourists, but who may influence people to visit the destination due to their high degree of satisfaction. A recommendation for future research would be to use the Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) to confirm the measurement model after conducting Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA).
Comportamento fenológico de Copernicia prunifera (Miller) H.E. Moore em área urbana de Parnamirim, Rio Grande do Norte
Authors: Ximenes Eduarda , Silva Richeliel Albert Rodrigues , Fernandes Rocha Talita Geovanna , De Almeida Vieira Fábio , Nunho dos Reis Allan Rodrigo , Dias de Oliveira Jefferson
Published: January 2020

A fenologia aplicada ao ambiente urbano é uma ferramenta de resposta às condições ambientais atípicas das cidades, atuando na conservação do patrimônio arbóreo. Objetivou-se avaliar o padrão fenológico em uma população ruderal de Copernicia prunifera, correlacionando-as com variáveis meteorológicas (temperatura, umidade relativa do ar, precipitação e velocidade do vento). Foram avaliados quinzenalmente 29 indivíduos na Praia de Cotovelo (Parnamirim/RN) entre outubro de 2011 e abril de 2013. Os eventos avaliados foram: enfolhamento, botão floral, floração, frutos imaturos e maduros. Foram analisados o percentual de intensidade de Fournier e o índice de atividade para cada fenofase, sendo posteriormente correlacionadas com parâmetros meteorológicos por meio da correlação de Spearman (rs) do programa estatístico BioEstat 5.3. O brotamento foliar manteve-se constante, corroborando a boa adaptação da espécie a climas áridos e semiáridos. Foram observadas correlações positivas entre a produção de frutos maduros e precipitação (rs1 = 0,398, rs2 = 0,549, rs3 = 0,464, rs4 = 0,533), onde a água neste caso é um fator limitante para o desenvolvimento de frutos carnosos. Dessa forma, os aspectos morfológicos e fisiológicos da população de C. prunifera estudada foram influenciados pelos fatores climáticos regionais.