bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Composition and diversity of phytophilous cladocerans of oxbow lakes of Southwest Amazonian, Acre state, Brazil
Authors: Cabral Guilherme Sampaio , Silva Ronaldo Souza da , Araujo Ronnilda Maria Gonçalves , Ghidini André Ricardo
Published: March 2021

Abstract: The objective of this study was to inventory the community of cladocerans associated with macrophytes in oxbow lakes of the Chandless River, located within the Chandless State Park, during the local dry season. In three lakes covered with macrophytes, 90 sample units were collected, arranged over nine transects. Twenty species of cladocerans were found, which 16 are new records for the state of Acre. Mascote Lake had the largest abundance and richness, while São João Lake had the lowest indexes. The Shannon-Wiener index points to an average diversity within the work area, probably due to the difference in richness and abundance between the lakes.
Os Enunciados Aderentes
Authors: Maingueneau Dominique , Souza-e-Silva Trad.: Maria Cecília Pérez de
Published: March 2021

RESUMO Este artigo procura chamar a atenção para um conjunto de manifestações do discurso que proliferam em nosso cotidiano e que proponho agrupar sob o termo de “enunciados aderentes” (EA). Tais enunciados foram até agora pouco abordados pela análise do discurso não só porque se trata de enunciados associados a todos os tipos de objetos (uma camiseta, uma garrafa, um carro, um corpo humano...), mas também porque os linguistas preferem, em geral, estudar enunciados estritamente verbais. O estudo dos EA implica com efeito que se conteste um pressuposto profundamente enraizado segundo o qual é preciso separar rigorosamente os nomes e as coisas. Após ter explicitado a relação de “aderência” entre o enunciado e seu “suporte”, e sublinhado em que este enunciado modifica a identidade do suporte, coloco em evidência diversos parâmetros que convêm levar em conta para abordar os enunciados aderentes. Em um segundo momento, analiso dois tipos de enunciados bem diferentes: de um lado, enunciados com uma visada ecológica (sobre uma lixeira ou um gramado), de outro lado, enunciados portados por manifestantes em agrupamentos com objetivo político.
Structural Variation of Directives in University Classroom Discourse: A Corpus-Based Investigation
Authors: Kia Elnaz
Published: March 2021

ABSTRACT The present study examines structural variation of directives1 across different situational contexts in university lectures. The data comes from the lecture component of a large corpus of university discourse2. The following analytical steps were taken: 1) possible linguistic patterns of directives were manually identified in sample lectures; 2) five most-frequent lexico-grammatically explicit structural types of directives were selected for automatic analysis; 3)Python scripts were written to automatically identify directives with the five structural types; 4) structural variation of directives was analyzed in relation to three situational variables: level of interaction, level of instruction, and discipline. Results show that situational variables affect the use of directives in important ways.
Physiology and production of cherry tomato cultivars in a hydroponic system using brackish water
Authors: Batista Mateus C. , Nascimento Ronaldo do , Maia Júnior Sebastião de O. , Nascimento Elka C. S. , Bezerra Carlos V. de C. , Lima Robson F. de
Published: March 2021

ABSTRACT Agricultural production has become a challenge in arid and semi-arid regions due to the scarcity of water for irrigation, so brackish water is commonly used. The present study aimed to evaluate the physiological and production responses of cherry tomato cultivars under salinity levels of the nutrient solution in a hydroponic system. The experiment was conducted in a split plot and 5 × 3 factorial scheme with four repetitions. The factors corresponded to different values of electrical conductivity of the nutrient solution (ECns 2.5, 4.0, 5.5, 7.0 and 8.5 dS m-1) and cultivars (Samambaia, Tomate Vermelho and Caroline). The increase in nutrient solution salinity negatively affected the gas exchange, electrolyte leakage and photosynthetic pigments of the cherry tomato cultivars, mainly with the prolongation of stress. The photosynthetic system was efficient up to 4.0 dS m-1, but, above this electrical conductivity in the nutrient solution, there was photoinhibition or photodamage in the cherry tomato plants at 30 days after transplanting. The cherry tomato cultivars Samambaia and Caroline were the most adapted to brackish solutions, while Tomate Vermelho was the most susceptible.
Efficiency of nitrogen use by wheat depending on genotype and previous crop
Authors: Kraisig Adriana R. , Silva José A. G. da , Pereira Laura M. , Carbonera Roberto , Carvalho Ivan R. , Basso Natiane C. F.
Published: March 2021

ABSTRACT The efficiency of nitrogen use by wheat crop depends on genetic and environmental stimuli. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of nitrogen use by wheat crop, through biomass, productivity and grain quality indicators, as a function of the genotype and previous harvest, in Southern Brazil cereal cultivation systems. The experiments were conducted in soybean/wheat and maize/wheat systems during 2015, 2016, and 2017 in Augusto Pestana, RS, Brazil. The experimental design was a randomized block with four repetitions, following a 5 × 4 factorial scheme, referring to five wheat cultivars (Quartzo, TBIO Sinuelo, TBIO Sintonia, TEC 10 and TEC Vigore) and four nitrogen doses (0, 60, 120 and 180 kg ha-1) applied as a topdressing during the phenological stage of the expanded third leaf, stage 13. There were genetic differences in nitrogen use efficiency, for the productivity (yield and biomass) and quality of wheat. However, these genetic differences were influenced by the carbon:nitrogen ratios of the previous crop. Quartzo and TBIO Sinuelo had the greatest nitrogen use efficiency for grain yield, TBIO Sinuelo had the greatest nitrogen use efficiency for biomass production and Quartzo had the greatest nitrogen use efficiency for grain quality with expectation of 3 Mg ha-1, regardless of the succession system, in the joint analysis of agricultural years.
Sensor system for acquisition of vegetation indexes
Authors: Silva Thales M. de A. , Valente Domingos S. M. , Pinto Francisco de A. de C. , Queiroz Daniel M. de , Santos Nerilson T.
Published: March 2021

ABSTRACT Vegetation indexes are important indicators of the health and yield of agricultural crops. Among the sensors used to evaluate vegetation indexes, proximal sensors can be used for real-time decision-making. Thus, the objective of this study was to develop a proximal sensor system based on phototransistors to acquire and store the following vegetation indexes: normalized difference vegetation index, simple ratio, wide dynamic range vegetation index, soil-adjusted vegetation index, and optimized soil-adjusted vegetation index. The sensor system was developed using an analog circuit to acquire reflectance data from red and near-infrared bands. The sensor system was calibrated according to the results of a spectroradiometer, using Zoysia japonica grass as the target. An algorithm that calculates and stores vegetation indexes in a file was developed. The Pearson correlation between the vegetation indexes obtained with the sensor system and the spectroradiometer was evaluated. The vegetation indexes presented a Pearson correlation higher than 0.92 to the estimated values by the spectroradiometer. Under the evaluation conditions, the proposed sensor system could be used to determine all vegetation indexes evaluated.
Insecticide spray drift reduction with different adjuvants and spray nozzles
Authors: Marubayashi Rodrigo Y. P. , Oliveira Rone B. de , Ferreira Marcelo da C. , Roggia Samuel , Moraes Eder D. de , Saab Otavio J. G. A.
Published: March 2021

ABSTRACT Insecticide spray drift can lead to reduced control efficiency and loss of product to the environment. Thus, we conducted a study to evaluate the effect of different spray nozzles and the addition of adjuvants in insecticide spray on the resulting droplet spectrum and wind tunnel drift. All experiments were conducted in a completely randomized design with four repetitions using a 5 × 3 factorial scheme. Five spraying solutions were studied; one contained only water and the other four comprised thiamethoxam + lambda-cyhalothrin (no adjuvant, Oro-solve, Wetcit Gold, and Orobor N1), in combination with three spray nozzles (AXI, JFC, and J3D). The droplet spectrum was evaluated through the volumetric median diameter, relative amplitude, and percentage of the droplet volume with diameter ≤ 100 µm. The drifts were evaluated in a wind tunnel at 5, 10, and 15 m. Data were subjected to analysis of variance and means were compared using the Tukey’s test. In addition, a principal component analysis was performed. Application of the insecticide with the adjuvants combined with the different nozzles changed the droplet spectrum and the risk of drift. The AXI nozzle and the J3D associated with the Oro-solve and Wetcit Gold adjuvants resulted in a greater volumetric median diameter of the droplets and drifts were observed at 5 m.
Climate risk zoning for gladiolus production under three climate change scenarios
Authors: Becker Camila C. , Streck Nereu A. , Schwab Natalia T. , Uhlmann Lilian O. , Tomiozzo Regina , Ferraz Simone E. T.
Published: March 2021

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to develop a climate risk zoning for damage to gladiolus due to low and high temperature under climate change scenarios projected by the end of the century in the Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. The PhenoGlad model was used in this study to determine the recommended periods for planting gladiolus throughout the year across the Rio Grande do Sul State. The model was run for daily planting dates (from 01 January to 31 December), for different gladiolus developmental cycles (Early, Intermediate I, Intermediate II and Late). The climate change scenarios were from CMIP5: RCP2.6, RCP4.5 and RCP8.5, representing optimistic, intermediate and pessimistic scenarios of greenhouse gases emission, respectively. Planting dates were considered recommended when crop damage, due to high or low temperatures, occurred in less than 10% of the years. Warmer regions like Uruguaiana and Iraí have the shortest recommended time for planting throughout the year in the three climate change scenarios. Plantings between August and December are predicted to be the most affected and are not recommended because of the higher chance of damage from high temperatures. Colder regions like Bom Jesus will be favored in climate change scenarios since there will be an extended recommended period for planting in the seasons of the year that currently suffer damage by low temperatures. To meet demands of gladiolus during the hottest period of the year, it will be necessary to develop techniques to reduce damage from high temperatures in the crop, such as more tolerant cultivars or the use of shading screens on the crop.
Allometric relationship and leaf area modeling estimation on chia by non-destructive method
Authors: Goergen Patrícia C. H. , Lago Isabel , Schwab Natalia T. , Alves Alexandre F. , Freitas Charles P. de O. , Selli Verlaine S.
Published: March 2021

ABSTRACT This study aimed to obtain equations to estimate leaf area from linear leaf dimensions and establish the allometric relationship between leaf area and the number of leaves on the main stem of chia (Salvia hispanica L.) at different sowing times. The experiment was conducted in the agricultural year 2016/2017 on five sowing times in Santa Maria, RS, Brazil, in a randomized block design with four repetitions. In each plot, ten random plants were marked weekly during the vegetative phase to determine the number of leaves (NL) in the main stem, and three of these for the determination of leaf area (LA). A total of 70 leaves of different sizes were used to calibrate the model. Another 106 leaves were used to test the predictive capacity of the equations by various statistical indices. The length (L) and the largest leaf width (W) were measured. Leaf collection was carried out during the cycle, in all sowing times to represent all leaf sizes. The linear, quadratic, exponential, and potential models were adjusted. The non-destructive method, through the linear dimensions of the leaf, is appropriate for estimating the leaf area in chia. The general equation LA = 0.642 (L x W) can be used to estimate the leaf area of the chia plants without loss of precision. The potential model is appropriate to characterize the allometric relationship between leaf area evolution and the number of leaves accumulated in the main stem of chia at different sowing times.
Strategies of fertilizer application for ornamental pineapple plants grown in pots under anti-aphid screen
Authors: Santos Márcio D. S. , Carvalho Ana C. P. P. de , Bomfim Guilherme V. do , Azevedo Benito M. de , Fernandes Carlos N. V. , Téllez Hayver O.
Published: March 2021

ABSTRACT Production of ornamental pineapple plants in pots is a recent mode of growing pineapple that demands information on application of soil mineral fertilizers to compose the production system. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of five strategies of application of soil mineral fertilizer on the vegetative and reproductive growths of potted ornamental pineapple plants. The experiment was conducted under an anti-aphid screen, from June 17, 2015 to May 21, 2016, in Fortaleza, Ceará state, Brazil. A completely randomized design with six treatments and four replicates was used, consisted of four plants per plot. The treatments consisted of application of a slow-release fertilizer; conventional soil fertilizer application; fertigation at every 30, 60, and 90 days; and no soil fertilizer application (control). The plants were grown in 1 L pots and irrigated using a drip system every two days. The variables evaluated were: number of leaves; ‘D’ leaf length and width; shoot apex diameter; plant height; flowering rate; length and diameter of peduncle, syncarp, and crown; crown to syncarp ratio; and percentage of marketable plants. Despite the different plant growth, all strategies of soil fertilizer application used can be recommended for ornamental pineapple plants, since they do not hinder the esthetic quality and dimensions required for marketing these plants in pots. Pineapple production without application of soil fertilizers should be avoided, since it reduces the percentage of marketable plants.
Enrichment of organic compost with beneficial microorganisms and yield performance of corn and wheat
Authors: Andrade Francine C. , Fernandes Fernando , Oliveira Júnior Adilson , Rondina Artur B. L. , Hungria Mariangela , Nogueira Marco A.
Published: March 2021

ABSTRACT Enrichment with beneficial microorganisms may increase the benefits of organic compost. The aim of this study was to evaluate the enrichment of a mature compost with plant growth-promoting bacteria and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus (Rhizophagus clarus), using brachiaria (Urochloa brizantha) as host plant, totaling seven treatments: control (compost with no bacteria, brachiaria or mycorrhizal fungus); compost + brachiaria; compost + brachiaria + mycorrhizal fungus; compost + brachiaria + mycorrhizal fungus + Azorhizobium sp.; compost + brachiaria + mycorrhizal fungus + Azoarcus sp.; compost + brachiaria + mycorrhizal fungus + Bacillus subtilis; and compost + brachiaria + mycorrhizal fungus + Azotobacter sp., in a completely randomized design with three replicates. Brachiaria shoot biomass, N and P concentrations, mycorrhizal colonization, and chemical characteristics of the compost were assessed five times over 183 days. B. subtilis and Azotobacter increased ammonium-N concentration in the compost in two and three sampling dates, respectively. In contrast, Azotobacter and Azoarcus decreased the concentrations of nitrate-N in at least one sampling. Despite high P availability in the compost (951-2927 mg kg-1), mycorrhizal colonization reached up to 53%. In a field trial with the produced composts, in a randomized block design with six repetitions, the composts with brachiaria doubled the mycorrhizal colonization of corn (Zea mays) and wheat (Triticum aestivum), independent of the growth-promoting bacteria and, depending on the associated bacteria, increased grain yields.
Spatial variability of enthalpy and illuminance in free-range broiler sheds
Authors: Faustino Amélia C. , Turco Silvia H. N. , Silva Junior René G. C. , Miranda Isadora B. , Anjos Italo E. , Lourençoni Dian
Published: March 2021

ABSTRACT Free-range broiler producers are concerned with the thermal environment and lighting of their facilities and seek to improve these factors for the increased welfare of their broilers. The objective of this study was to evaluate the spatialization of illuminance and enthalpy in two free-range broiler sheds, one of masonry with a clay tile roof and the other built of wood with a straw roof. The data on air temperature, relative air humidity, and illuminance were recorded between September and October 2018 for five non-consecutive weeks in two periods during the day: morning (9 hours) and afternoon (15 hours). The data were collected at 42 points per shed, spaced 0.40 × 0.75 m. The experimental design was completely randomized in a 2 × 2 factorial scheme, considering two periods and two sheds. Spatial dependence was evaluated using geostatistics and interpolation maps by kriging. The facilities presented strong or moderate spatial dependence for all observed variables and periods. The small edges and lack of management of curtains resulted in the masonry shed having higher illuminance values during both periods. Although it did not present ideal values for a comfortable environment, the wood shed was more thermally efficient.
Equipment to assess vigor in soybean seeds using CO2 produced during respiration
Authors: Silva Joseano G. da , Gadotti Gizele I. , Moraes Dario M. de , Silva Augusto H. M. , Cavalcante Jerffeson A. , Meneghello Geri E.
Published: March 2021

ABSTRACT The adoption of quick and reliable laboratory techniques and equipment to choose the best seed lots for marketing will influence the production of soybeans with superior physiological quality, among other areas in the sector. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the CO2 concentrations produced by water-soaked soybean seeds and to verify the effectiveness of new equipment to help choose lots with different vigor levels. To evaluate the physical and physiological quality of the seeds, eight soybean lots were evaluated with the following tests: water content, weight of thousand seeds, first germination count, germination, electrical conductivity, emergence, and respiration evaluated by the Pettenkoffer apparatus and with equipment designed to measure CO2 in seeds. The results were subjected to analysis of variance with means compared by Tukey’s test at p ≤ 0.05. Conventional methods showed significant differences in vigor and viability in soybean seeds. The equipment designed was efficient in detecting CO2 produced by seeds soaked in water for 8 hours. The CO2 readings with the equipment presented satisfactory results to predict the vigor in soybean seeds through respiration.
Avon Brazil: Optimization of Logistics Processes in a Direct Selling Company
Authors: Medeiros Fabio , Serio Luiz Carlos Di , Moreira Alessandro
Published: March 2021

ABSTRACT This case study aims to develop in each student analytical competencies by evaluating current logistics processes and, from this understanding, to use the knowledge gained on tools and theories of continuous improvement to propose solutions and discuss strategic alternatives for the company to improve its processes. Efficiency in logistics operations plays a key role in the results of direct sales companies because there are thousands of customers and daily deliveries that bring complexity to the process. The new Supply Chain Director took over the position in a difficult period of falling market in the country. Thereby he implemented internal discussions to evaluate the status of various processes and to engage leadership. He intends to find ways to improve logistics processes through capital investments or by using continuous improvement tools that could provide cost reductions and increase service levels. The case can be used in undergraduate courses, graduate courses, and also in professional education in themes related to business management, supply chain, logistics, and industrial operations.
“O GRITO DO IPIRANGA” E A PERSISTÊNCIA DO TÓPOS HISTÓRICO (UM POEMA INÉDITO DE MACHADO DE ASSIS)
Authors: MARQUES WILTON JOSÉ
Published: March 2021

Resumo O artigo apresenta a leitura de um poema inédito de Machado de Assis, "O grito do Ipiranga", publicado no jornal Correio Mercantil, em setembro de 1856. Além disso, discute duas crônicas que usam o mesmo tópos histórico do poema, retirado da História de Roma, de Tito Lívio.
Nível de ativação e qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde de pessoas em hemodiálise
Authors: Leone Denise Rocha Raimundo , Pereira Gabriela Amorim , Silva Arison Cristian de Paula , Aguiar Aline Silva de
Published: March 2021

Resumo Objetivo associar o nível de ativação com a qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde de pessoas que realizam o tratamento hemodialítico. Método estudo quantitativo, transversal e correlacional com 162 pessoas em tratamento hemodialítico. Os dados foram coletados por meio da aplicação de questionários para a caracterização sociodemográfica, socioeconômica e clínica do Kidney Disease Quality of Life Short Form e da escala Patient Activation Measure. Os dados secundários foram coletados por meio do prontuário médico. Para a análise dos dados, utilizaram-se a estatística descritiva e a regressão logística. Resultados a ativação do paciente em hemodiálise associou-se positivamente com os domínios sintomas, funcionamento físico, saúde geral, bem-estar emocional, energia/fadiga e o componente mental da qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde. Conclusão e implicação para a prática como a ativação apresenta relação com a qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde, na prática assistencial, essa métrica deve ser considerada ao implementar medidas que visem a aumentar a qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde das pessoas em hemodiálise.
Disintegration characteristics of collapsible loess after vibration compaction
Authors: Gao Changhui , Du Guangyin , Zhuang Zhongxun , Zeng Biao , Chen Xiaoguang , Cheng Fuqiang
Published: March 2021

The main objective of this study is to evaluate the disintegration characteristics of loess after treatment by vibratory probe compaction method. To establish the connection between the disintegration velocity of loess soil and other parameters, a series of indoor and in situ tests was conducted, including density test, compression test, direct shear test, collapsibility test, standard penetration test (SPT) and cone penetration test. The results showed that a great improvement of the resistance of loess samples to wetting and disintegration was obtained after treatment, and its disintegration velocity (0.2%/s) had a larger reduction of 75.85% compared to the value before treatment. The disintegration velocity had a positive linear correlation with the void ratio, collapsibility coefficient and self-weight collapse coefficient, but a negative linear correlation with the dry density and modulus of compressibility. From in situ test results, the disintegration velocity showed a negative correlation with the SPT blows, and the cone resistance and sleeve friction of the soil layer at different depths corresponded well to the disintegration velocity. The vibratory probe compaction method is an effective way to eliminate collapsibility and improve the allowable stress for collapsible loess foundation; it can also minimise the disintegration threat of loess in water to engineering construction.
Cutting shoe design for open caissons in sand: influence on vertical bearing capacity
Authors: Templeman Jack O. , Phillips Bryn M. , Sheil Brian B.
Published: March 2021

Open caisson shafts are a widely adopted solution for a range of geotechnical applications. An external ‘cutting shoe’ is a common construction feature used to reduce the soil frictional resistance acting on the caisson during sinking. This forms an annular void encircling the caisson which is filled with a support fluid to maintain excavation stability. The primary aim of this paper is to explore the influence of the cutting shoe geometry on the resulting vertical bearing resistance in sand. Finite-element limit analysis is adopted for this purpose. Additional parameters considered in the modelling include the roughness of the caisson cutting face and cutting shoe, and the caisson radius and embedment depth. The results show that the influence of the cutting shoe is highly dependent on the caisson cutting face roughness and the soil friction angle, illustrated using detailed soil failure mechanisms. The roughness of the cutting shoe is also shown to cause a significant increase in the vertical soil reaction for large caisson embedment depths. By way of example, a recent case study in the UK, involving the construction of a 32 m dia. caisson, is used to highlight the potential influence of the cutting shoe on the bearing resistance during caisson sinking.
Predicting compaction properties of soils at different compaction efforts
Authors: Di Matteo Lucio , Spagnoli Giovanni
Published: March 2021

Soil compaction is a key operation regarding the construction of, for example, railway and road embankments, earth dams and clay liners for waste disposals. Standard and modified Proctor tests are employed to obtain the optimum compaction properties at different energy levels. The choice of compaction technique depends on the type of compacted earthworks to be carried out. In practice, it is possible that the same material deployed in the past for a certain engineering work has to be reused in different work, requiring a different compaction energy. As compaction tests are time consuming, a preliminary assessment of optimum compaction properties from one energy level to another can be useful in geotechnical applications. Two empirical models linking different compaction energies are presented in this paper. Using the liquid limit, the possibility of evaluating the optimum moisture content and maximum dry unit weight from modified properties was investigated. A database of 49 data sets from the literature was used to build a model, which was validated with 14 other independent data sets. Statistical analysis was carried out and Monte Carlo simulations were also performed. This paper provides an update on knowledge regarding compaction at different energy levels using a larger database.
Visual detection of construction and demolition waste using multi-sensor fusion
Authors: Zhuang Jiangteng , Yang Jianhong , Fang Huaiying , Ku Yuedong , Xiao Wen , Zhang Xiaojun
Published: March 2021

In construction and demolition waste (CDW), there are materials that are difficult to separate by density and magnetic characteristics alone. To realise a finer separation of these difficult-to-separate materials, a multi-sensor fusion method for the visual detection of CDW is proposed. This method consists of a red–green–blue–depth (RGBD) data collection method with high precision in the height direction and a multimodal data processing algorithm. To obtain comprehensive features accurately and efficiently, the proposed method uses two independent MobileNet branches to extract colour visual features and geometric features separately, and an encoder is used to control the frequency of the two models in real time to better match the two data types. The proposed method makes full use of the height data to filter out the background of the conveyor belt and the invalid areas generated by the region proposal networks to improve its robustness. Experiments show that the accuracy of the proposed visual detection method is over 90%. Additionally, computational efficiency reaches 1.67 frames per second (fps) on a central processing unit (CPU) and 30 fps on a graphics processing unit. The detection efficiency when running on the CPU could reach 25 000 CDW items per hour.
DEFCON 5: The Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital orthopaedic department's COVID-19 proactive action plan
Authors: Hirschmann A , Pillay T , Fang KW , Ramokgopa MT , Frey C
Published: March 2021

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: On 11 March 2020 the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a worldwide pandemic and a threat to global public health. In this paper we aim to describe the measures implemented to combat the COVID-19 pandemic in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital (CHBAH), Soweto, Johannesburg, the largest hospital in Africa with approximately 3 200 beds and about 6 760 staff members. At the time of writing this report, we have transitioned from level 5 to level 3 lockdown METHODS: We performed a literature review and drew on the experiences of previous pandemic response plans worldwide. A working group comprising all relevant disciplines was created to develop standard operating procedures in line with governmental policy RESULTS: We found that by developing a multi-phase plan, we were able to maintain service delivery to all emergent patients while protecting medical staff and patients alike. This plan also allowed coordination with other disciplines and made provision for staff from within the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery to be made available to work within other departments as and when required. The implementation of this plan had to evolve constantly, adjusting to the changes in the national lockdown level and the demands of the developing situation CONCLUSION: We hope that by sharing our plan with our colleagues domestically and abroad, we can promote discussion and improve our ability to better prepare and deal with this unprecedented healthcare scenario. In order for us to win as individuals, we must fight as a team Level of evidence: Level 5 Keywords: COVID-19, orthopaedics, plan, response, Baragwanath
The short-term outcome of hip revision arthroplasty with Trabecular Metal™ components and augments
Authors: Noconjo L , Nortje MB
Published: March 2021

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Highly porous Trabecular Metal™ acetabular components are increasingly being used in revision hip arthroplasty as they facilitate ingrowth, provide a useful mechanism to deal with bone loss and may decrease the risk of infection. The purpose of this audit was to describe: 1) the total number of hip arthroplasty surgeries over Ave years, the ratio of revision to primary hip arthroplasty and indications for revision; 2) the short-term outcomes of revision hip arthroplasty with Trabecular Metal™ components and augments METHODS: A retrospective folder and radiograph review of all patients who had revision total hip arthroplasty (THA) at a tertiary level hospital from February 2012 to February 2017 was done RESULTS: There were 979 THAs performed over the period - 863 (87%) primary THAs, and 116 (12%) hip revision cases performed in 107 patients. Of the 116 (107 patients) hip revisions, there were seven (6%) re-revisions in Ave patients. The indications for revision were aseptic loosening 67 (59%), septic loosening 11 (10%), liner wear 18 (16%), periprosthetic fracture Ave (4%), other 15 (13%). Trabecular Metal™ was used for revision in 16 hips (14 patients), which is 14% of the total 116 revisions. There were ten females and four males with an average age of 61 years. The average duration of follow-up in this group was 18.5 months (1.5-39.2). In these 16 Trabecular Metal™ hips, there were three (19%) early failures of fixation due to technical errors CONCLUSION: In our institution, 12% of the arthroplasty is revision surgery. The indications for revision are similar to published literature. Trabecular Metal™ revisions had a 19% early failure rate due to technical error Level of evidence: Level 4 Keywords: Trabecular Metal™, augments, total hip arthroplasty, revision hip arthroplasty
Fixation of femoral neck fractures in patients younger than 65 years: a retrospective descriptive study at a high-volume trauma centre
Authors: Ferreira N , Jordaan K , Du Preez G , Burger M
Published: March 2021

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: The management of femoral neck fractures in the younger patient remains contentious, with high failure rates being reported in the literature. Patient age usually plays a major role during decision-making with regard to head-sparing versus head-sacrificing surgical strategies. The aim of this study was to review the outcomes of fixation of femoral neck fractures in patients younger than 65 years in an attempt to identify factors that might predict fixation failure. METHODS: A retrospective study, evaluating the outcome of fixation of femoral neck fractures in patients younger than 65 years of age was conducted. Factors affecting the outcome of treatment were explored in an attempt to identify variables that might predict fixation failure. RESULTS: The final cohort comprised 51 men (76%) and 16 women (24%) with a mean age of 43.9±12.2 years (95% CI 41.0-46.8; range 23-64) and a median follow-up of 8.7 months (IQR 6.2-17.4). Thirteen patients (19%) presented with undisplaced (Garden I and II) fractures while 54 (81%) presented with displaced (Garden III and IV) fractures. Twenty-four patients (36%) met the definition of failure. These included 15 cases (22%) of non-union, seven cases (10%) of femoral neck collapse and two cases (3%) of avascular necrosis. Sixteen patients (24%) underwent conversion to total hip arthroplasty. All cases of failure occurred in patients who presented with Garden III and IV displaced fractures. Factors associated with failure included the presence of fracture comminution (p<0.001) and the increased vertical orientation of the fracture line according to the Pauwels classification (p<0.001). Neither patient age (p=0.117), time from injury to surgery (p=0.204), mechanism of injury (p=0.136), smoking (p>0.999) nor alcohol abuse (p=0.528) was associated with failure CONCLUSION: The incidence of fixation failure following surgical management of femoral neck fractures in patients younger than 65 years of age remains high. While undisplaced fractures heal readily regardless of time from injury to surgery, mechanism of injury or fixation method, displaced fractures remain a difficult problem to solve. In our series, fixation failure was observed in one in three patients, while one in four required revision to total hip arthroplasty. Level of evidence: Level 4. Keywords: femoral neck fracture, fixation, failure, non-union, avascular necrosis
Tumour volume as a predictor of metastases in patients presenting with high-grade conventional osteosarcoma of the extremities
Authors: Phillias SC , Ngcelwane MV , Marais LC
Published: March 2021

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to compare the initial tumour volume in patients with and without pulmonary and/or skeletal metastases at time of presentation. The secondary aim was to compare the value of tumour volume in the prediction of metastases at time of presentation with known predictive factors, namely serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective cross-sectional analysis was performed comparing the primary tumour volume in patients with and without metastases. All patients with histologically confirmed high-grade conventional osteosarcoma over a five-year period were included. RESULTS: The study comprised 61 patients. The mean age was 21 years (SD: 11.9, range 5-56) with an equal distribution of males and females (51% vs 49%). There was no correlation between tumour volume and age at presentation (p=0.31). There was no evidence of metastases in only 20% (n=12) of patients. Skeletal metastases were present in 28% (n=16) of the patients and pulmonary metastases were present in 44 cases (72%). There was no significant difference in the tumour volume at presentation between patients with and without pulmonary metastases (p=0.11). However, tumour volume did appear to predict the presence of skeletal metastases (p=0.02). A tumour volume of 1 383 cm3 had a negative predictive value (NPV) of 92% and positive predictive value (PPV) of 55% for the presence of skeletal metastases (area under curve [AUC]=0.76; sensitivity 66%; specificity 87%). A tumour volume of 480 cm3 had a 100% NPV for the presence of skeletal metastases (AUC=0.74). A tumour volume > 1 380 cm3 had an odds ratio (OR) of 13.6 (p<0.01; 95% CI 2.6-72.5) as an independent variable in relation to skeletal metastases. Multivariate analysis (with ALP and LDH) of tumour volume >1 380 cm3 yielded an OR of 8.6 (p=0.04; 95% CI 1.1-67) for presence of skeletal metastases. CONCLUSION: In this series of conventional high-grade osteosarcoma of the extremities, we found a very high rate of metastases at time of diagnosis. While there was no association with pulmonary metastases, increased tumour volume was associated with an increased risk for the presence of skeletal metastases. More studies in the developing world clinical setting are required to investigate this further; the high rate of metastases seen at time of diagnosis also requires further investigation Level of evidence: Level 4. Keywords: osteosarcoma, metastases, tumour volume, prognosis, staging
Fatigue failure of the femoral component of a total knee arthroplasty: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Greeff W , Greeff RDV , Frey CT , Singh V
Published: March 2021

ABSTRACT INTRODUCTION: Reports of fatigue failure of the femoral component of a total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is scanty in the literature. As a result, there are no clearly defined risk factors to aid us in predicting fatigue failure of an implant. Furthermore, these patients may present with non-specific knee pain, which may or may not be well tolerated, depending on the stability of the implant. We report a case of fatigue failure of a poorly cemented femoral component of a TKA in a 72-year-old female, approximately seven years after the initial surgery CASE REPORT: A 72-year-old female presented to our tertiary level arthroplasty unit with new-onset knee pain approximately seven years after undergoing a TKA at our unit. She reported hearing a crack six months earlier, while standing up from a seated position. She had initially presented to her local clinic, but the pathology was missed. She received revision surgery at our institution and was doing well at early follow-up. DISCUSSION: We reviewed the literature on fatigue failure of femoral components in TKA in an attempt to define risk factors. We also summarised all cases of femoral component fatigue failure in the English literature. CONCLUSION: Although femoral component fatigue failure in TKA is rare, the majority of cases have attributed the failure to poor surgical technique. Despite this, certain implants have been failing more often than others, and proposed mechanisms for this exist. Orthopaedic surgeons need to be aware of which implant designs are prone to failure, as well as how meticulous surgical technique can reduce the chances of fatigue failure. Level of evidence: Level 5 Keywords: femoral component, total knee arthroplasty, fatigue failure, stress fracture
Identification of Factors Determining Winning in Men’s and Women’s Beach Volleyball: a Logistical Regression Approach
Authors: Kumar Gopal , Shukla Anshuman , Chhoker Amit , Thapa Rohit Kumar
Published: March 2021

The purpose of this study was to find the factors responsible for winning in the men’s and women’s beach volleyball championship.
Materials and methods. The study sample consisted of a total of 212 matches for men and 214 matches for women of the 2017 & 2019 FIVB Men and Women Beach Volleyball World Championships held at Vienna & Hamburg from 28 July to 6 Aug 2017 and 28 June to 7 July 2019. The matches were played by 192 teams (both men and women combined) consisting of 384 numbers (both men and women combined) of players from different nations. The data were analyzed using Binary Logistic Regression (Forward: LR Method) with the result of the game as the dependent variable and predictor variables as covariates. β, standard error β, Wald’s χ2, odds ratio with 95% confidence interval were calculated. Model evaluation was conducted using the likelihood ratio test, Cox & Snell (R2), and Nagelkerke (R2) tests. The goodness of fit test for the models was conducted using the Hosmer & Lemeshow test.
Results. The analysis revealed seven factors related to winning in men’s and women’s competition. While in league rounds, six factors in men’s and seven factors in women’s competition were related to winning. Besides, in knockout rounds, four factors in men’s and six factors in women’s competition were related to winning.
Conclusion. The study shows that there is a significant association of important factors with respect to winning a match in an elite beach volleyball championship. The coaches and players can take note of the important factors responsible for winning in the elite beach volleyball championship, with different factors playing an important role in men’s and women’s competition during league and knockout rounds as well.
High Intensity Intermittent Exercise Plays a Role in Improving Brain Activation During Complex Executive Functional Tasks
Authors: Shenoy Shweta , Khandekar Prachi , Sathe Abhinav
Published: March 2021

Several neuroimaging studies have examined the effect of different types and combinations of exercises on activation of brain associated with cognitive testing but none of these studies have examined the role of high intensity intermittent exercise (HIIE) in altering cortical activation from simple to complex cognitive tasks. 

The purpose of this study was to find if HIIE has a role in modulating executive functions related to inhibitory control as expressed by changes in prefrontal cortex (PFC) activation. 

Materials and methods. 40 healthy adults aged between 18-30 years volunteered for the study. They were randomly divided into HIIE a (n = 20) group and a control (n = 20) group. The HIIE group performed 4*4 min of high intensity exercise on a cycle ergometer with 3 minutes of active recovery at lower intensities between the bouts, whereas the control group performed no exercise. Prefrontal hemodynamics (oxy and deoxy haemoglobin) were assessed using functional near infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) during the Colour Word Stroop test (CWST) on two sessions: pre-session and post-session (1 week after pre-session).

Results. The results indicate a significant difference in CWST scores which coincided with a significant difference in hemodynamics of PFC between a congruent and a complex incongruent task in the HIIE group. There was a greater activation of the right frontopolar area, the left ventrolateral prefrontal cortex, and the left frontopolar area during the incongruent task in response to acute HIIE. 

Conclusion. HIIE plays a role in changing brain activation during more complex interference related tasks.
Effectiveness of Using Active Games for Strength Development in 10-Year-Old Boys at the Initial Training Stage in Kyokushin Karate
Authors: Marchenko Svitlana , Satdyiev Bahtiiar
Published: March 2021

The objective of the study was to examine the level of strength fitness indicators of 10-year-old boys who do Kyokushin Karate, and experimentally test the effectiveness of the impact of play techniques on the dynamics of strength development.

Materials and methods. The study involved 40 10-year-old boys. The children and their parents were informed about all the features of the study and gave their consent to participate in the experiment. To achieve the objective set, the following research methods were used: analysis of scientific and methodological literature, pedagogical testing, and methods of mathematical statistics for processing research results.

Results. There were the biggest changes in the results of the tests “Standing long jump” by 15.9% (р < 0.001), “Sit-ups in 30 s” by 16.0% (р < 0.001), “Pull-ups” by 18.3% (р < 0.001), and “Bent arm hang” by 15.6% (р < 0.001). The experimental group boys’ result of the “Standing long jump” changed from low to above average. The lowest increase in results was observed in the “Right hand grip test” by 7.2% (р < 0.001), “Left hand grip test” by 6.9% (р < 0.001), and“Push-ups” by 11.8% (р < 0.001).

Conclusions. The initial level of the boys’ strength fitness is sufficient and conforms to age norms. Most of them had an average – 30.36%, an above average – 19.64%, and a high – 23.21% level of strength abilities development. The data obtained give reason to recommend that teachers and coaches use active games aimed at developing strength. As a result of using play load (5 games, 3 repetitions with rest intervals of 40 s), there was a statistically significant increase in strength indicators (р < 0.001).
ECONOMICAL CRISIS CAUSED BY CORONA-VIRUS PANDEMIC AND THE TENDENCIES OF EFFECTIVE USE OF THE FOREIGN DEBTS IN GEORGIA
Authors: BİDZİNASHVİLİ Davit
Published: March 2021

Recently, the COVID-19 pandemic has become the part of the new reality. We witnessed new measures and actions daily, from the official Government side as well as from the side oof the several organizations. This caused the new reality and new challenges. Since the WWII ended, the world did not face with such serious challenge. If ever it could happen that we would face to the necessity of increasing our foreign debts, it is just the moment now because we see that the crisis has involved the whole world and we don’t know when and how it will end. We don’t know when the vaccine will be invented and used, how will the humanity manage this wide crisis, response effectively to the challenge, so we will have to get used to living with this disease which demands new efforts; it will be difficult for people, for governments, for businesses; the society has to be prepared for the challenges and it is not easy for the separate countries, especially for such small and economically weak country as Georgia. In such serious global crisis our country depends on the help of its friendly, partner countries.
The foreign debt of the country represents the part of the external debts which the country borrowed from the foreign lending entities, among them, from the commercial banks, governments, or international financial institutions. As a rule, the countries take foreign debts when their State entities do not have enough financial resources to achieve the desired goals. Almost all countries have foreign debts. This is an ordinary and important part of the economics. The debt should be returned in the same currency as it was taken.
The foreign debt enables the country to scale up their production, to grow up their economics, though it is clear that countries should not take excessive foreign debts which would lead them to inability of payment.
How much reasonable is the foreign debt taken by the country this can be measured through comparing the amount of the debt with the GDP (Gross Domestic Product) of the country. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is one of those organizations which monitor the foreign debts of the countries. Besides that, the World Bank publishes the quarterly statistic reviews of the foreign debts of the countries in the world.