bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact on Seed Quality of Ajwain [Trachyspermum ammi (L.) Sprague] Stored under Different Storage Conditions
Authors: Agrawal M. , Saxena S. , Nagar P. , Agrawal K.
Published: August 2020

Background: Ajwain is used as an antioxidant, as preservative and also valued for its medicinal properties. Ajwain seeds undergo deterioration during storage due to various microorganisms and leads to degradation of quality in terms of discolorations and altering the biochemical constituents. Hence, the effect of different types of storage conditions on quality of ajwain seeds was investigated. Methods: To assess the effect of storage in four different types of containers viz. Plastic jars (PJ) of make Pearl Pet, tin containers (TC), gunny bags (GB) and plastic lined gunny bags (PLBG) were used. The duration of storage was one year. External environmental conditions, i.e. temperature and relative humidity were recorded quarterly. To study the effect of different storage conditions on quality: (i) Seed quality assessment according to Agmark grade specifications (ii) incidence of mycoflora and (iii) effect on biochemical constituents viz. moisture, crude protein, crude fat, crude fiber, ash, carbohydrates, total soluble sugars, iron, total phenols and volatile oil contents were studied. Initial readings served as control for the experiment. Results: Irrespective of storage conditions, a sharp increase in deterioration was noted in stored samples of ajwain with respect to presence of shrivelled, damaged, discolored and weevilled seeds after 3 months of storage. This shifted the samples from good to substandard grade. Maximum deterioration was noted after 12 months. The incidence of mycoflora was found maximum in samples stored in tin containers and gunny bags followed by plastic lined gunny bags and plastic Jars. A decline in moisture, crude fiber, carbohydrates, total soluble sugars, iron and volatile oil contents and an increase in crude fat and ash contents were observed after 12 months of storage, irrespective of storage containers. Plastic jars were found to be the best of all containers studied for storage purpose.
Laboratory Protocol for Induction of Sporulation in Phytophthora cajani causing Phytophthora Blight in Pigeonpea
Authors: Jadesha G. , Sharma Mamta , Reddy P. Narayan
Published: August 2020

Background: Phytophthora blight (PB), caused by Phytophthora cajani is a prominent disease in the low laying areas combined with intermittent rainfall. Induction of zoospores and sporangia of P. cajani in culture plate is troublesome and also limited information is available on the protocol for sporulation of sporangia and zoospores in the laboratory, The study developed and validated the protocol for induction of sporangia and zoospore of P. cajani. Methods: The Protocol using 5-7 days old culture, diluted tomato extract broth and other culture conditions like the temperature of 30oC, alternate 12 hours of fluorescent light (2000 Lx) and dark can induce abundant sporangia and zoospores in vitro. Result: The study developed and validated the new protocol for uniform and profuse induction of sporangia and zoospores of P. cajani. Diplanetism mechanism of Phytophthora spp. was recorded with P. cajani the findings are the first of its kind. Additionally, the study revealed the concentration of 1x10-5 zoospores/ml is optimum to develop the infection in plants with the shortest incubation period of 24 hours.
Determination of Profenofos Residues using LC-MS/MS and Its Dissipation Kinetics in Pigeonpea Pods
Authors: Naik R. Harischandra , Chawan Rahul , Pallavi M. S. , Bheemanna M. , Rachappa V. , Pramesh D. , Naik Anand , Nidoni Udaykumar
Published: August 2020

Background: Pigeonpea is a drought resistant legume crop, cultivated in semiarid tropical and subtropical regions of the world mainly for its protein enriched seeds. Insect pests are major biotic constraints implicating yield losses of staggering dimensions. Profenofos is being used for management of pigeonpea pod borer and studying the pattern of dissipation, residual occurrence and hazard index for consumption of pigeonpea grain contaminated with profenofos is very important. Methods: A simple, sensitive and reproducible method for analysis of profenofos in pigeonpea green pods and dry grain was standardized and validated using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) with electro spray ionization (ESI+). Modified QuEChERS methods with 1 % ethyl acetate in acetonitrile involved in the extraction of profenofos residues from green pods and mature dry grains. Results: The limit of detection and limit of quantification (LOD and LOQ) were 0.002 and 0.006 µgg-1, respectively. The recovery ranges from 88.75 to 101.36 % for the green pods and 88.34 to 98.77 % for mature dry grains with relative standard deviation (RSD) was in the range of 0.99 to 4.05 %. The field study was conducted to investigate the dissipation kinetics of profenofos in pigeonpea. Two applications of profenofos 50 % EC at 500 and 1000 g a.i.ha-1 at 15 days intervals in pigeonpea at the time of pod formation recorded initial deposits of 20.28 and 41.64 ìgg-1 in the green pod, respectively. At15 days after application, residues gradually dissipated to the level of 0.78 and 1.98 µg g-1 accounting to the loss of 96.15 and 95.58 % at 500 and 1000 g a.i. ha-1, respectively. The half-life values were 5.18 and 5.93 days. Hazard index (HI) was found less than 1 at 25th and 35th day after application at 500 and 1000 g a. i. ha-1, respectively.
Effect of Planting Methods on Growth and Yield of Groundnut Cultivars
Authors: Abdulbaki A. S. , Olayinka B. U. , Mohammed R. T. , Alsamadany Hameed , Murtadha R. B. , Alzahrani Yahya , Abdulaziz Ayinla , Abdulkareem K. A. , Etejere E. O.
Published: August 2020

Background: The low yield in groundnut which can be partly attributed to poor land preparation methods necessitated the need for alternative strategy of land preparation that will promote higher productivity in groundnut farming. Methods: A field experiment was carried out in two separate locations between May and August in 2016 to assess the effect of planting methods on growth and yield of groundnut cultivars. Result: The results revealed that groundnut crop sown on modified ridges and furrow with narrow furrow planting recorded significantly higher plant height, number of leaves, 50% flowering, yield attributes and yield when compared to other methods of planting All the groundnut cultivars responded positively to all planting methods except those grown on flat surface without beds. However, modified ridges and furrow with narrow furrow planting proved to be the best method.
Omissão de sujeito pronominal anafórico e as construções de dupla negação
Authors: Othero Gabriel de Ávila , Goldnadel Marcos
Published: August 2020

Neste artigo, investigamos omissão e a expressão de sujeitos expressos pronominais e nulos em construções de dupla negação em português brasileiro. Para isso, analisamos um corpus de língua falada da região Sul do Brasil, o corpus VARSUL. Apesar de a literatura apontar para o fato de que o PB tem privilegiado orações com sujeito pronominal expresso em detrimento de sujeito nulo (cf. Duarte 2012, entre outros), percebemos que as construções de dupla negação, ao contrário da expectativa, favorecem o sujeito nulo. Acreditamos que tal construção favoreça o sujeito nulo porque veicula conteúdos ativados (que, por princípio, podem ser ocultados da superfície da frase). Além desse fator pragmático, investigamos também a relação desses efeitos com um fator semântico que favorece a retomada por sujeito pronominal expresso: o traço de gênero semântico do referente. Analisamos cenários de confluência e conflito entre esses princípios de natureza gramatical distinta distintos e o que encontramos na análise do corpus corrobora empiricamente nossas previsões teóricas.
A importância do lúdico para a criança
Authors: Martini Lúcia Eugênia Pittas
Published: August 2020

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A "função desenvolvente" das artes dramáticas na sala de literatura estrangeira
Authors: Newman Bárbara Ann
Published: August 2020

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Pré-História nas escolas?
Authors: Leite Nívea
Published: August 2020

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Expressão de menino
Authors: Paes Paulo Duarte
Published: August 2020

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A teoria de ausubel e a seleção de conteúdos de ensino
Authors: Barros Helena Faria de
Published: August 2020

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Teoria de ausubel e mapas conceituais
Authors: Jardim Maria Inês de Affonseca
Published: August 2020

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Mapa conceitual da disciplina didática, desenvolvida em 1993, no curso de filosofia (UDB)
Authors: Carvalho Ieda Marques de
Published: August 2020

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Educação e inclusão em escolas de educação básica: análise preliminar
Authors: Mori Nerli Nonato Ribeiro
Published: August 2020

Resumo   A política nacional de educação especial na perspectiva da educação inclusiva foi estabelecida em 2008. Desde então, é cada vez maior a inserção de alunos com deficiência, transtornos globais do desenvolvimento ou altas habilidades/superdotação no ensino comum. Como está ocorrendo esse processo? De que modo estão se concretizando os princípios e determinações dos documentos norteadores da educação inclusiva? Em busca de respostas para essas questões realizamos uma pesquisa sobre educação básica e inclusão nas cinco regiões brasileiras. Os dados iniciais foram colhidos por meio de levantamento junto a 1200 professores e, na segunda etapa, foi realizado um estudo de campo com observação direta de atividades e entrevistas com profissionais com professores das Salas de Recursos Multifuncionais e gestores de 15 escolas das regiões cinco regiões brasileiras. Os resultados indicam que ainda é grande o desafio de avançar para além do direito ao acesso e efetivar práticas educacionais voltadas para as especificidades dos alunos que não atendem os padrões de aprendizagem e desenvolvimento estabelecidos.   Palavras-chave: educação especial; inclusão; aprendizagem.
Papel dos formadores, modelos e estratégias formativos no desenvolvimento docente
Authors: Nunes Ana Ignez Belém Lima , Nunes João Batista Carvalho
Published: August 2020

Discutem-se o papel do formador na formação continuada e os modelos e estratégias formativos para o desenvolvimento docente. Parte-se da análise do papel do formador, situando a complexidade de conceituar esse termo, assim como as fragilidades ainda presentes em sua formação. Defende-se a ideia de que a coerência entre a formação desejada para os professores e a formação de seus formadores é um aspecto fundamental para promover o desenvolvimento docente. Em seguida, denotam-se diversos modelos e estratégias de formação continuada, com suporte na literatura científica e de estudos realizados pelos autores. Ao final, esboçam-se propostas para a melhoria da formação continuada desde a perspectiva do desenvolvimento docente, a serem implementadas pelos órgãos gestores e/ou pelas escolas. Palavras-chave: Formação de formadores. Modelos e estratégias formativos. Desenvolvimento docente.
Las trampas de la interculturalidad
Authors: Melià Bartomeu
Published: August 2020

El presente artículo trae una reflexión acerca del concepto de la interculturalidad y sus trampas. Partiendo de un ejercicio de bilingüismo en el cual la piel de cada uno es un primer dato que marca las diferencias entre los hablantes, nos aproximamos a las condiciones de un posible diálogo entre personas diferentes. La cultura sólo se ve y se percibe a través de la piel que habitamos; esta cultura es un sistema de comunicación mediante el parentesco, el intercambio de bienes y la reciprocidad de mensajes y símbolos. La interculturalidad supone el reconocimiento pleno de la diferencia de la piel del otro y no hay interculturalidad cuando la piel delotro, especialmente lo que dice con su lengua - que precisamente llamamos lengua‑ es negada, despreciada e incluso maltratada. Pero tampoco hay interculturalidad cuando uno mismo no quiere reconocer y amar su propia piel, la cubre y la disfraza.Palabras clave: Cultura. Identidad. Interculturalidad.
Melhor idade, ou naturalização da velhice e produção de preconceitos?
Authors: De Almeida Vieira Renata , Bomura Maciel Lizete Shizue
Published: August 2020

Este artigo, de natureza bibliográfica, é originário de uma pesquisa maior voltada para a temática preconceito. Seu objetivo é apresentar uma discussão sobre a naturalização da velhice e a produção do preconceito ao idoso. Trata-se de uma discussão sobre a velhice para além das aparências, já que esta vem sendo convertida, desde a terça última parte do século XX, em um nicho de mercado a ser explorado, de modoqueos holofotes direcionados aos idosos não sãogratuitos nem fortuitos.Mediante o resultado do estudo, destaca-se, entre outras considerações, que o envelhecimento como processo biológico, como alteração de algumas funções orgânicas e como parte do desenvolvimento natural do ser humano é real, está posto para todos os membros da espécie e não há como negá-lo. No entanto a velhice com caráter negativo, carregada de preconceitos, é fenômeno social, logo, uma produção humana, erigida no interior das relações sociais. Discuti-la de tal perspectiva torna-se, portanto, imperioso, se de fato primamospelapromoção humana em todas as suas idades e etapas dodesenvolvimento.
Intrapelvic Loss of a Trial Femoral Head During Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Wallis Carl , Ninomiya James T.
Published: August 2020

Case:

We report a case of intraoperative femoral head trial dislocation, with intrapelvic migration treated only with close observation with over the 17-year follow-up.

Conclusion:

Total hip arthroplasty has been used as an effective means of treating debilitating arthritis of the hip. Common complications of hip arthroplasty have been discussed at length in the literature. Intraoperative dislocation of the femoral head trial with intrapelvic migration is a relatively uncommon complication with only several documented cases in the literature. Multiple treatment strategies are described for this complication including immediate surgical exploration, delayed surgical exploration, laparoscopic exploration, and observation.
Hyperflexion Knee Injury with Anterior Cruciate Ligament Rupture and Avulsion Fractures of Both Posterior Meniscal Attachments
Authors: Bisping Lucas , Lenz Robert , Lutter Christoph , Schenck Robert C. , Tischer Thomas
Published: August 2020

Case:

A 54-year-old patient presented with low-velocity hyperflexion knee trauma while falling at a ski lift with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture and avulsion fractures of both posterior meniscal attachments. Meniscal avulsions were treated arthroscopically using transtibial sutures; a partial medial collateral ligament tear was treated conservatively. Six weeks later, reconstruction of the ACL was performed, and both meniscal attachments were stable.

Conclusion:

Hyperflexion of the knee puts direct shear and compressive force on the posterior tibia. This can result in ligament injuries combined with avulsion fractures of both posterior meniscal attachments. Arthroscopic treatment is a practicable technique for this type of injury.
Epiphyseal Split Depression Tibial Plateau Fracture with Preservation of Physeal Growth in a Pediatric Patient
Authors: Olsen LT Aaron A. , Katsma LT Mark S. , Smith CDR Christopher S. , Stepanovich LCDR Matthew T.
Published: August 2020

Case:

A 14-year-old skeletally immature boy sustained a lateral split depression tibial plateau fracture without extension through the physis. He underwent open reduction internal fixation with all-epiphyseal instrumentation.

Conclusion:

Tibial plateau fractures that spare the physis are rare injuries, with no reports previously in the literature of operative treatment without physeal arrest. Careful all-epiphyseal reduction and fixation is a viable option with good-to-excellent outcomes and return to sporting activities.
Shrub, Scrub, and Grass: The Importance of Shrubland and Grassland Plant Communities to the Diet of the Late Prehistoric (A.D. 900-1535) Hunter-Gatherers of the Eastern Trans-Pecos Region of Texas
Authors: Riggs Casey
Published: August 2020

The Eastern Trans-Pecos archeological region of Texas is an area rich in botanical diversity, a resource heavily utilized by both prehistoric and historic hunter-gatherers. A comparison of four paleoethnobotanical investigations of archeological sites dating to the Late Prehistoric Era (A.D. 900-1535) with ethnobotanical information of the Mescalero Apache reveal that the botanical component of prehistoric and historic diets have been similar for the past 1,000 years. Differences in the degree of similarity can be contributed to differential preservation and analytical techniques. Further, ecological sites from the Ecological Site Information System are demonstrated as a novel and useful tool for landscape-scale archeological analysis.
First Impressions: Anglo Travelers and the Origins of El Paso, Texas, 1846-1852
Authors: Cioc-Ortega Mark
Published: August 2020

El Paso del Norte was a thriving agricultural region on the Santa Fe-Chihuahua trail when the U.S.-Mexico War (1846-1848) and the 1849 gold rush turned it into a border town on the southern route to California. The diaries and letters of the Anglo-American soldiers, engineers, and gold seekers who passed through the area in the 1840s and 1850s document the emergence of a new political and economic landscape that helped define the pattern of Anglo-Mexican relations in the new town of El Paso, Texas (across the Rio Grande from El Paso del Norte), well into the next century.
Archeological 3D Mapping: The Structure from Motion Revolution
Authors: Willis Mark , Koenig Charles , Black Stephen , Castañeda Amanda
Published: August 2020

Mapping is a critical aspect of systematic documentation no matter where archaeologists work. From hand-drawn maps of excavation units to maps created with Total Data Stations or LiDAR scanning, today’s archaeologists have a suite of mapping techniques and technologies to choose from when documenting a site. Typically, spectacular sites often receive high resolution mapping, whereas everyday sites rarely do. Recently, however, a revolutionary technology and technique has been created that can produce highly accurate and precise three-dimensional maps and orthophotos of archaeological sites, features, and profiles at a fraction of the cost and time of LiDAR and intensive TDS mapping: Structure from Motion (SfM). SfM is a new digital photography processing technique for capturing highly detailed, three-dimensional (3D) data from almost any surface using digital cameras. This article introduces the various platforms SfM photographs can be collected from (UAV, kites, balloons, poles, and groundbased) and provides examples of different types of data SfM can provide. The Structure from Motion Revolution is unfolding across the globe at a rapid pace, and we encourage archaeologists to take advantage of this new recording method.
Military Diet on the Border: Butchery Analysis at Fort Brown (41DF96) Cameron County, Texas
Authors: Dozier Crystal
Published: August 2020

Archaeological investigations at Fort Brown (41CF96) have provided a wealth of information about military life in south Texas. This re-analysis of the faunal material recovered by the Archaeological Research Laboratory’s survey efforts in 1988 investigates butchering patterns found at the site. While evidence for modern European American cuts are present, processing of beef os coxae and sacrum are inconsistent with current European American butchery practices. The assemblage is dominated by inexpensive cuts of meat that would have allowed for easy cooking within stews or soups. The butchery patterns seen at Fort Brown are compared to early twentieth century military standards as well as local, and particularly Mexican, influences on Fort Brown foodways.
Real-time monitoring of traffic parameters
Authors: Khazukov Kirill , Shepelev Vladimir , Karpeta Tatiana , Shabiev Salavat , Slobodin Ivan , Charbadze Irakli , Alferova Irina
Published: August 2020

This study deals with the problem of rea-time obtaining quality data on the road traffic parameters based on the static street video surveillance camera data. The existing road traffic monitoring solutions are based on the use of traffic cameras located directly above the carriageways, which allows one to obtain fragmentary data on the speed and movement pattern of vehicles. The purpose of the study is to develop a system of high-quality and complete collection of real-time data, such as traffic flow intensity, driving directions, and average vehicle speed. At the same time, the data is collected within the entire functional area of intersections and adjacent road sections, which fall within the street video surveillance camera angle. Our solution is based on the use of the YOLOv3 neural network architecture and SORT open-source tracker. To train the neural network, we marked 6,000 images and performed augmentation, which allowed us to form a dataset of 4.3 million vehicles. The basic performance of YOLO was improved using an additional mask branch and optimizing the shape of anchors. To determine the vehicle speed, we used a method of perspective transformation of coordinates from the original image to geographical coordinates. Testing of the system at night and in the daytime at six intersections showed the absolute percentage accuracy of vehicle counting, of no less than 92%. The error in determining the vehicle speed by the projection method, taking into account the camera calibration, did not exceed 1.5 km/h.
Management and Outcomes of patients on maintenance dialysis during the COVID-19 pandemic: a report from Geneva, Switzerland
Authors: Zamberg Ido , Mavrakanas Thomas , Ernandez Thomas , Bourquin Vincent , Zellweger Michael , Marangon Nicola , Raimbault Francoise , Winzeler Rebecca , Iten Anne , Martin Pierre-Yves , Saudan Patrick
Published: August 2020

Background Patients on maintenance hemodialysis are at high risk for serious complications from COVID-19 infection including death. We present an overview of the local experience with dialysis units management and reorganization, local epidemiology and outcomes during the COVID-19 outbreak in Geneva, Switzerland.Methods All SARS-CoV-2 positive outpatients on maintenance dialysis were transferred from their usual dialysis facility to the Geneva University Hospitals dialysis unit to avoid creation of new clusters of transmission. Within this unit, appropriate mitigation measures were enforced as suggested by the institutional team for prevention and control of infectious diseases.Results From February 25 to May 18, 2020, 19 of 246 patients on maintenance dialysis were tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, representing an incidence rate of 97.6 cases per 100,000 person-days. Eighteen patients were on maintenance hemodialysis and one on peritoneal dialysis. Twelve of these infections were detected during the first two weeks after mitigation strategies were enforced. Most common symptoms were fever (89%), cough (84%) and fatigue (68%). Two patients required orotracheal intubation. Six patients on maintenance hemodialysis who had previously tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, all of them male, died (32%). Five deaths were COVID-19 related and one death was due to dialysis withdrawal at the patient’s request. Conclusion Strict mitigation measures seemed to be effective to control infection spread among patients on maintenance dialysis. COVID-19 infection is associated with a high fatality rate. Large scale epidemiological studies are needed to assess the efficacy of preventive measures in decreasing infection and mortality rate within the dialysis population.
A simple, sustained and sufficient calcium regulation scheme during perioperative period for the secondary hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Zhang WeiBin , Dong Jia , Wu YunFei , Zheng Bin , Dai Jin , Ma Yan , Zhang Xinsheng
Published: August 2020

Background: Patients of secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) with chronic renal failure treated by long-term dialysis have received surgical treatment. The severe complications, especially convulsions caused by severe hypocalcemia, would endanger lives during perioperative treatment. Therefore, this study aims to explore a simple, sustained and sufficient calcium regulation scheme during perioperative period, which could stabilize blood calcium concentration and correct calcium deficiency, greatly reduce the occurrence of the complications.Methods: We reviewed the clinical data of 136 patients with chronic renal failure in uremic stage from Jinzhou Central Hospital and the Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, who received dialysis treatment for a long time and finally diagnosed as secondary hyperparathyroidism, from Jan 2017 to Dec 2019, were accepted different operations to treat hyperparathyroidism, were given corresponding calcium regulation therapy to avoid serious complications were, and were divided into the observation group and the control group according to the postoperative calcium regulation time of ≤7 days and > 7 days, which is defined by the mean time of postoperative calcium regulation, and by the time from the day of operation until the day when the patients have stable blood calcium levels and no obvious discomfort symptoms.Results: Compared with the control group, the observation group were elder (54.01±9.215, P<0.01), shorter preoperative dialysis time (5.05±2.855, P<0.01), significant difference in operation mode (P=0.026), positive preoperative oral calcium(c2=9.941, P=0.002), higher preoperative calcium value (t=4.795, P<0.001), lower preoperative Parathyroid Hormone(PTH) value (t=6.327, P<0.001), lower preoperative Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) value (t=3.527, P=0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that age, preoperative calcium value, preoperative PTH value and preoperative ALP value were independent risk factors for postoperative calcium regulation therapy. Those factors, Gender, preoperative dialysis mode, complications, preoperative Hemoglobin(HB) value, were not related to postoperative calcium regulation. There was no significant difference between the two groups (P>0.05).Conclusion: The simple, sustained and sufficient calcium regulation scheme can maintain a stable level of blood calcium in the dialytic CKD patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism, so as to avoid the occurrence of severe hypocalcemia and increase the curate.
Post-treatment heterogeneity of cardio-metabolic risk in acromegalic patients: The Impacts of GH and IGF-1
Authors: Heydari Mahshid , Madani Nahid Hashemi , Emami Zahra , Khajavi Alireza , Ghorbani Mohammad , Malek Mojtaba , Kachuee Manizhe Ataei , Khamseh Mohammad
Published: August 2020

Background: Metabolic abnormalities are frequently seen in patients with acromegaly. However, it is not clear to what extent GH /IGF-1 contribute to the development of these abnormalities. This study aimed to explore the impact of GH/IGF-1 on different aspects of metabolic abnormalities in patients with acromegaly. Methods: This retrospective, registry-based study conducted on 102 patients with acromegaly. Prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension (HTN), and dyslipidemia (DLP) at the time of diagnosis has been explored. Moreover, the impact of GH/IGF-1 on these cardio-metabolic risk factors at 3-12 months after surgery has been investigated using linear and logistic regression models.Results: At the time of diagnosis, the prevalence of cardio-metabolic risk factors was 79.17 % for DLP, 29.41% for DM, and 15% for HTN. Furthermore, each 1 ng/ml increase in the level of GH was significantly associated with 2 mg/dl increase in the level of FBS, 0.54 mmHg increase in the level of SBP, and 0.88 mmHg increase in the level of DBP. Upon multivariate analysis GH, but not IGF-1, significantly increased the odds of DM (OR; 1.17, 95% CI; 1.02-1.35, p= 0.025). Conclusions: Our findings showed at early postoperative stage, GH is significantly associated with the levels of FBS, SBP, and DBP. Moreover, GH, but not IGF-1, appears as a predictive factor for the presence of DM. However, neither GH nor IGF-1 could predict the presence of HTN, or DLP in this study.
Genetic Variation Analysis and Treatment Strategy of 20 Patients with Dystrophin Gene Mutations
Authors: Liu Yedan , Chen Jun , Hou Mei , Zhang Yanhui , Guo Ya , Liu Peipei , Li Fei , Yang Chengqing , Song Jie , Wei Wei , Chen Zongbo
Published: August 2020

BackgroundDystrophin (DMD) gene mutations can affect muscular dystrophin isoform expression and result in progressive muscular dystrophy including Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophies (DMD and BMD). To establish the correlation between phenotype and genotype and exemplify the current and future treatment for muscular dystrophy disorders, we investigated 20 patients suffering from a dystrophinopathy and summarized clinical manifestation and gene mutations of them. MethodsThe clinical manifestations, physical examination, laboratory work, and gene mutation results were collected in 20 patients with DMD or BMD diagnosed by clinical phenotype and genetic sequencing from July 2015 to December 2019. Multiplex ligation probe amplification (MLPA) and next-generation sequencing (NGS) were used to detect mutations in the DMD gene, and detected mutations were confirmed by Sanger sequencing. ResultsThe clinical manifestation of patients was characterized by progressive symmetrical muscle degeneration, limb weakness, and pseudohypertrophy along with the elevated concentration of creatine kinase, alanine aminotransferase, and aspartate aminotransferase. We found 11 dystrophin gene deletions (55%) and 4 duplication mutations (20%) among the affected patients. However, we also found point mutations including 1 nonsense (20%), 3 frameshifts (60%), and 1 splice sites (20%) mutations in the rest 5 patients. Among the 15 cases of exon deletion or duplication mutations, 7 were inherited from the mother, 3 were de-novo, while the other 5 were not tested. Besides, all 5 point-mutation cases were inherited from the mother, among which 4 point mutations were identified for the first time and linked to the disease phenotype. ConclusionsWe provided clinical portraits, genetic results, and the molecular effects of mutations in patients. Four novel point mutations were identified for the first time and associated with the development of DMD and BMD. Further, we expanded knowledge of the DMD variant spectrum and exemplified the emerging therapies in muscular dystrophy.
A-DROP and Blood Urea Nitrogen-to-Serum Albumin Ratio are Useful in Assessing the Severity of Pneumocystis Pneumonia in Patients Without Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Akahane Jumpei , Ushiki Atsuhito , Kosaka Makoto , Ikuyama Yuichi , Matsuo Akemi , Hachiya Tsutomu , Yoshiike Fumiaki , Koyama Shigeru , Hanaoka Masayuki
Published: August 2020

Background: There is an increasing incidence of Pneumocystis pneumonia among individuals without the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection (non-HIV Pneumocystis pneumonia). However, the prognostic factors for patients with non-HIV Pneumocystis pneumonia have not been identified. Moreover, A-DROP (for classifying the severity of community-acquired pneumonia) or the blood urea nitrogen-to-serum albumin ratio, which is reported to be predictor of mortality of community-acquired pneumonia, has not been established as an efficient prognostic factor in patients with non-HIV Pneumocystis pneumonia. In this study, we analyzed the prognostic factors for non-HIV Pneumocystis pneumonia and evaluated the effectiveness of A-DROP and the blood urea nitrogen-to-serum albumin ratio as prognostic factors.Methods: This retrospective study involved a chart review of the medical records of 102 patients diagnosed with non-HIV Pneumocystis pneumonia between January 2003 and May 2019 at five medical facilities. Prognostic factors associated with the 30-day mortality were assessed using multiple logistic regression analysis.Results: Among the 102 patients with non-HIV Pneumocystis pneumonia, 46 (45.1%) had autoimmune diseases, 19 (18.6%) had hematological malignancies, 18 (17.7%) had solid malignancies, and 19 (18.6%) had other diseases. The 30-day mortality rate for non-HIV Pneumocystis pneumonia was 20.5% in this study population. Compared with survivors, non-survivors had significantly lower serum albumin levels and a significantly higher age, corticosteroid dosage at the onset of Pneumocystis pneumonia, alveolar–arterial oxygen gradient, A-DROP score, lactate dehydrogenase levels, blood urea nitrogen levels, and blood urea nitrogen-to-serum albumin ratio. The results of multivariate analysis showed that a high A-DROP score and blood urea nitrogen-to-serum albumin ratio at treatment initiation were significantly associated with the 30-day mortality risk.Conclusions: A high A-DROP score and blood urea nitrogen-to-serum albumin ratio at treatment initiation are independent prognostic predictors of mortality risk in patients with non-HIV Pneumocystis pneumonia.
Colostrum Avoidance Practices and Its Associated Factors Among Mothers of Children Aged Less Than 12 Months in Jinka Town, South Ethiopia, 2019
Authors: Hadona Elias Amaje , Weldehawariat Feleke Gebremeskel , Sorrie Muluken Bekele
Published: August 2020

Background: Colostrum avoidance is the common nutritional malpractices in developing countries including Ethiopia. Discarding colostrum is the main causes of respiratory disease and diarrheal disease during childhood and contributes to over a million avoidable infant deaths each year and remains a public health problem in developing countries. Despite the fact that it has a negative effect on child health, little is known about the extent of the problem and its contributing factors in South Ethiopia particularly in study area. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of colostrum avoidance practices and associated factors among Mothers of children aged less than 12 months in Jinka Town, South Ethiopia. Methods: A community based cross-sectional study was conducted at Jinka Town from March 1 to 30, 2019. A total of 420 mothers having children less than 12 months of age were selected by systematic sampling technique. The data were collected by using pretested interviewer administered and semi-structured questionnaires. The data was entered using EPIDATA 3.1 and exported to SPSS version 23 for analysis. Descriptive statistics, Binary and multivariable logistic regression analysis were done. An adjusted odds ratio with 95% CI at a p-value < 0.05 was estimated to identify statistically significant variables with colostrum avoidance practices. Results: The prevalence of colostrum avoidance practice was 9.8% [95% CI: (6.9–12.5)]. Delayed initiation of breast feeding [AOR= 9.08(95% CI 4.16-19.83)], Lack of breast feeding counselling [AOR= 2.33(95% CI 1.11-4.87)], Home delivery of index child [AOR= 2.48 (95% CI 1.16-5.27)] and Poor knowledge on breast feeding [AOR=4.55(95% CI 1.95-10.63)] were factors associated with colostrum avoidance practices. Conclusions: Colostrum avoidance practice among mothers of children aged less than 12 months in Jinka town was high. Delayed initiation of Breas feeding, lack of breast feeding counselling, Home delivery and knowledge on breastfeeding feeding practice were factors associated with colostrum avoidance practice. Promoting institutional delivery services and strengthening of breast feeding counselling during antenatal and postnatal care were recommended for the promotion of the nutritional value of colostrum and its health benefits.
England's Lockdown vs. Sweden's Herd Immunity: A Comparison of the Daily New COVID-19 Cases and Related Deaths Using Comparative Interrupted Time Series Analysis
Authors: Ali Moaath K. Mustafa , Samhouri Yazan , Sabha Marwa , Alnimer Lynna
Published: August 2020

Background: There is a lack of empirical evidence that lockdowns decrease daily cases of COVID-19 and related mortality compared to herd immunity. England implemented a delayed lockdown on March 23, 2020, but Sweden did not. We aim to examine the effect of lockdown on daily COVID-19 cases and related deaths during the first 100 days post-lockdown.Methods: We compared daily cases of COVID-19 infection and related mortality in England and Sweden before and after lockdown intervention using a comparative-interrupted time series analysis. The period included was from COVID-19 pandemic onset till June 30, 2020.Results: The adjusted-rate of daily COVID-19 infections was eight cases/10,000,000 person higher in England than Sweden before lockdown order (95% CI: 2-14, P=0.01). On the day of intervention (lagged lockdown), England had 693 more COVID-19 cases/10,000,000 person compared to Sweden (95% CI: 467-920, P<0.001). Compared to the pre-intervention period, the adjusted daily confirmed cases rate decreased by 19 cases/ 10,000,000 person compared to Sweden (95% CI: 13-26, P<0.001). There was a rate excess of 1.5 daily deaths/ 10,000,000 person in England compared to Sweden pre-intervention (95% CI: 1-2, P<0.001). The increased mortality rate resulted in 50 excess deaths/ 10,000,000 person related to COVID-19 in England compared to Sweden on the day of lockdown (95% CI: 30-71, P<0.001). Post-intervention, the rate of daily deaths in England decreased by two deaths/ 10,000,000 person compared to Sweden (95% CI: 1-3, P<0.001). During phases one and two of lockdown lifting in England, there was no rebound increase in daily cases or deaths compared to Sweden. Conclusion: The lockdown order implemented in England on March 23, 2020, effectively decreased the daily new cases rate and related mortality compared to Sweden. There was no short-term increase in COVID-19 cases and related-deaths after the phases one and two of the lifting of restrictions in England compared to Sweden. This study provides empirical, comparative evidence that lockdowns slow the spread of COVID-19 in communities compared to herd immunity.
Nomogram Containing Simple Routine Clinical and Biochemical Parameters Can Predict Pathological Ventricular Remodeling in STEMI Patients
Authors: Vinter Ozren , Kordic Kresimir , Klobucar Iva , Gabric Ivo Darko , Boban Marko , Trbusic Matias
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND: Heart failure is the leading cause of worldwide morbidity and mortality, with ischemic heart disease being one of the most important etiologic factors. Heart failure develops due to ventricular remodeling, which leads to increases in left ventricular end-systolic and end-diastolic volumes.METHODS: We conducted a prospective observational study to find which parameters could predict the risk of pathological left ventricular remodeling in the early stage of myocardial infarction. RESULTS: We created a nomogram based on routinely used blood tests and vital parameters which had the highest correlation with pathological ventricular remodeling. The nomogram included NTproBNP value 12 hours after reperfusion, AST value 12 hours after reperfusion, systolic blood pressure value on admission and culprit coronary artery. We performed ROC analysis which found great predictive value of the nomogram. Area under curve (AUC) was 0,907 (95% CI 0,842 - 0,973). Nomogram value of -3.54 had sensitivity of 91.4% and specificity of 74.0%.CONCLUSION: We believe that this nomogram, once validated, could offer a widely available, low-cost option that would help identify patients at risk of developing pathological left ventricular remodeling and achieve this at a very early stage of myocardial infarction (12 hours after reperfusion is achieved).
Ethno Botanical Studies of District Dera Ghazi Khan, Province Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: Mughal Tahira Aziz , Yasin Hamna , Yousaf Zubaida , Naeem Ismat Naeem
Published: August 2020

Background

The chief aim of this study was to enlist the Ethnobotanical uses of plants in Dera Ghazi Khan, Punjab, Pakistan. Due to unique geographical and climatic conditions, Pakistan has a great floral diversity. Plants have been used by the indigenous people for treatment of different ailments since long. They are still dependent on the plants for their domestic purposes. Moreover, plants are used as first aid to treat diverse ailments such as hepatic disorders, cardiac diseases, neurological diseases, anticancer, respiratory diseases, ENT problems, gynecological problems etc. The traditional uses of medicinal plants lead to the discovery of natural drugs. This is first quantitative ethno medicinal documentation of medicinal plants in Dera Ghazi Khan. Punjab, Pakistan.
Methods

This ethno botanical information was collected from about 200 informants including male and female. Sample size was determined by statistical formula. The informative data was based on semi-structured interviews, group discussions, Questionnaire and field visits. Then the data was analyzed by applying different quantitative indices such as Informant Consent Factor (ICF), Use value (UV), Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC) and the Fidelity level (FL).
Results

Almost 185 plants belonging to 52 families were reported. Most-frequently cited families were Astreaceae (20 species) and Solanaceae (10 species). The most dominant life form was herbs (51%). The most-used plant parts were leaves (68%), followed by whole plant (65%), Most common mode of administration is extraction (50%). Generally herbal medicines were acquired from fresh plant material. Many species were reported with their different medicinal uses as has been reported in literature.
Conclusions

This ethno botanical documentation revealed that the plants are still used by natives of rural areas in their day-to-day lives. This study provides basis for the conservation of local flora. Plants with high ICF, UV and FL can be further used for phytochemical and pharmacological studies. This documentation could provide baseline information which can be used to develop new plant-based commercial drugs.
Left Ventricular F Ractional Shortening as a N Ovel Predictor of Clinical Outcomes in Patients With Coronary Artery Disease After Undergoing PCI: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Guo Qian-Qian , Tang Jun-Nan , Yang Xu-Ming , Zhang Jian-Chao , Cheng Meng-Die , Song Feng-Hua , Liu Zhi-Yu , Wang Kai , Jiang Li-Zhu , Fan Lei , Yue Xiao-Ting , Bai Yan , Dai Xin-Ya , Zhang Zeng-Lei , Zheng Ru-Jie , Zheng Ying-Ying , Zhang Jin-Ying
Published: August 2020

Background: Even though great advances have been made in the treatment of coronary artery disease (CAD) owing to coronary revascularization and modern antiremodeling therapy, it remains the major cause of cardiac morbidity and mortality worldwide. Risk stratification in CAD patients is primarily based on left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), risk scores, and some serum markers. The value of baseline Left ventricular fractional shortening (LVFS) level in predicting the clinical outcomes has not yet been determined.Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, a total of 3561 patients were enrolled in Clinical Outcomes and Risk Factors of Patients with CAD after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), from January 2013 to December 2017. After excluding patients without echocardiography data, we finally enrolled 2787 patients. These patients were divided into two groups according to LVFS value. The lower group (LVFS <31%, n=741), the higher group (LVFS≥31%, n=2046). The average follow-up time were 37.59±22.24 months.Results: We found that there were significant differences between the two groups in the incidence of all-cause mortality (ACM) (P<0.001), cardiac mortality (CM) (P<0.001), major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) (P<0.05) and major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs) (P<0.05). Multivariate Cox regression analyses showed that LVFS was an independent predictor for ACM (hazard ratio [HR]:0.473 [95% confidence interval [CI]:0.290-0.772],P=0.003), CM (HR: 0.393 [95% CI:0.213-0.725],P=0.003) in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients but that it was an independent predictor for only the incidence of CM (HR: 0.153 [95% CI:0.046-0.504],P=0.002) in stable CAD patients.Conclusion This study indicates that baseline LVFS is an independent and novel predictor of adverse long-term outcomes in CAD patients who underwent PCI.Trial registration:Chinese Clinical Trial Registry. ChiCTR-ORC-16010153. Registered 24 November 2018.http://www.chictr.org.cn/index.aspx
Single-Nucleotide Nr3C1 Gene Polymorphisms Affect Glucocorticosteroid Treatment Efficacy In Patients With Pemphigus Vulgaris
Authors: Thanh Le Thai Van , Quan Nguyen Duy , Dang Tran Ngoc , Pham Duy Le
Published: August 2020

Background

in recent years, the effectiveness of glucocorticosteroid (GC) treatment has become a central issue when managing patients with pemphigus vulgaris (PV). Polymorphisms in the gene encoding the nuclear receptor subfamily 3, group C, member 1 (NR3C1) protein (the GC receptor) may explain the observed variations in treatment efficacy. We aim to evaluate the effects of 10 SNPs (rs 17209237, rs11745958, rs7701443, rs33388, rs41423247, rs6189, rs6190, rs6195, rs6196, and rs6198) in Vietnamese PV patients.
Methods

we studied 10 sites in the NR3C1 gene (selected using published data) and sought correlations between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in these regions and the clinical responses to GCs in 15 PV patients. Whole blood samples from all patients were collected in tubes containing ethylenediamine tetra-acetic acid (EDTA) and were genotyped using TaqMan SNP Genotyping assay.
Results

Of the 10 sites in the NR3C1 gene, SNPs were detected in 6 (rs17209237, rs11745958, rs7701443, rs41423247, rs33388, and rs6196); the genotypes rs17209237 AA, rs11745958 CC, and rs6196 AG may be associated with a need for a lower total GC dose; rs17209237 AA and rs6196 AG with shorter times to commencement of tapering; and rs17209237 AA and rs11745958 CC with shorter times to attainment of 50 and 25% Pemphigus Disease Activity Index scores.
Conclusions

NR3C1 gene variations may predict GC efficacy in PV patients. However, larger, randomized controlled trials are required.
Severe Anemia in Patients with Propionic Acidemia is Associated with Low Plasma Levels of Valine, Isoleucine and Methionine
Authors: Stanescu Sinziana , Belanger-Quintana Amaya , Quintero Victor , Maldonado Maria Soledad , Arrieta Francisco , Alcaide Patricia , Martínez-Pardo Mercedes
Published: August 2020

Background. Propionic acidemia (AP), an inborn error of metabolism, is caused by a deficiency in propionyl-CoA carboxylase. Patients have to follow a diet restricted in the propiogenic amino acids isoleucine (Iso), valine (Val), methionine (Met) and threonine (Thr); proper adherence can prevent and treat acute decompensation and increase life expectancy. However, chronic complications occur in several organs even though metabolic control may be largely maintained. Bone marrow aplasia and cytopenia are among the more common. Materials and methods. In this retrospective study, data for patients with PA being monitored at the Hospital Ramón y Cajal (Madrid, Spain) (n=10) were examined to statistically detect relationships between hematological complications outside of metabolic decompensation episodes, and plasma amino acids provided by the diet, urinary organic acids and plasma odd-chain fatty acids. High ferritin levels were deemed to indicate that a patient had received repeated transfusions for severe anemia since data on hemoglobin levels at the moment of transfusion were not always passed on by the attending centers. Results. Three patients had severe, persistent anemia that required repeated blood transfusions leading to high ferritin levels. Their low plasma Val, Ile and Met suggested that their anemia had a nutritional component. Conclusion. The present results suggest that severe anemia in patients with PA is associated with low plasma levels of Val, Ile and Met.