bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brain–heart interaction after acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Battaglini Denise , Robba Chiara , Lopes da Silva Adriana , dos Santos Samary Cynthia , Leme Silva Pedro , Dal Pizzol Felipe , Pelosi Paolo , Rocco Patricia Rieken Macedo
Published: April 2020

Early detection of cardiovascular dysfunctions directly caused by acute ischemic stroke (AIS) has become paramount. Researchers now generally agree on the existence of a bidirectional interaction between the brain and the heart. In support of this theory, AIS patients are extremely vulnerable to severe cardiac complications. Sympathetic hyperactivity, hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis, the immune and inflammatory responses, and gut dysbiosis have been identified as the main pathological mechanisms involved in brain–heart axis dysregulation after AIS. Moreover, evidence has confirmed that the main causes of mortality after AIS include heart attack, congestive heart failure, hemodynamic instability, left ventricular systolic dysfunction, diastolic dysfunction, arrhythmias, electrocardiographic anomalies, and cardiac arrest, all of which are more or less associated with poor outcomes and death. Therefore, intensive care unit admission with continuous hemodynamic monitoring has been proposed as the standard of care for AIS patients at high risk for developing cardiovascular complications. Recent trials have also investigated possible therapies to prevent secondary cardiovascular accidents after AIS. Labetalol, nicardipine, and nitroprusside have been recommended for the control of hypertension during AIS, while beta blockers have been suggested both for preventing chronic remodeling and for treating arrhythmias. Additionally, electrolytic imbalances should be considered, and abnormal rhythms must be treated. Nevertheless, therapeutic targets remain challenging, and further investigations might be essential to complete this complex multi-disciplinary puzzle. This review aims to highlight the pathophysiological mechanisms implicated in the interaction between the brain and the heart and their clinical consequences in AIS patients, as well as to provide specific recommendations for cardiovascular management after AIS.
Latest trends in Leishmania infantum infection in dogs in Spain, Part I: mapped seroprevalence and sand fly distributions
Authors: Gálvez Rosa , Montoya Ana , Cruz Israel , Fernández Carlos , Martín Oihane , Checa Rocío , Chicharro Carmen , Migueláñez Silvia , Marino Valentina , Miró Guadalupe
Published: April 2020

Background

This report describes L. infantum infection seroprevalence in dogs in Spain through data obtained from peer-reviewed literature and a cross-sectional serological survey assessing epidemiological and habitat variables as risk factors for infection. The study also provides preliminary sand fly species distribution data and indicates factors affecting their distribution and density.

Methods

Three different studies were conducted in Spain: (i) a peer-reviewed literature seroprevalence survey (1985–2019); (ii) a cross-sectional serological survey (2011–2016); and (iii) a preliminary entomological survey (2013–2014). In the cross-sectional serological survey, 1739 dogs from 74 different locations including 25 Spanish provinces were tested for L. infantum by indirect immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT) (antibody titre ≥ 1:100). Seroprevalence of L. infantum infection was analysed by province and bioclimatic zone. Statistics were used to analyse relationships between several dog- and environment-related variables and L. infantum seroprevalence. In parallel, during 2013–2014, sand flies were collected across the Iberian Peninsula and the Balearic Islands using CDC light traps to examine relationships between habitat-related factors and sand fly species densities (number of sand flies per trap per hour).

Results

The literature review revealed that the provinces showing the highest seroprevalence were Balearic Islands (57.1%), Ourense (35.6%), Málaga (34.6%) and Cáceres (34.2%), and those showing the lowest seroprevalence were Vizcaya (0%), Cantabria (2.0%) and Álava (3.3%). In our survey, anti-Leishmania IgG antibodies were detected in 176 of the 1739 dogs rendering a seroprevalence of 10.12%. Percentage seroprevalence distributions significantly varied among bioclimatic belts. Seropositivity for L. infantum was related to size (large breed dogs versus small) and were significantly higher in younger dogs (≤ 1 years-old). In the entomological survey, 676 sand flies of five species were captured: 562 (83.13%) Phlebotomus perniciosus; 64 (9.47%) Sergentomyia minuta; 38 (5.62%) P. ariasi: 6 (0.89%) P. sergenti; and 6 (0.89%) P. papatasi. Phlebotomus perniciosus showed a greater density in the thermo-Mediterranean than in the meso-Mediterranean zone. Densities of S. minuta and P. ariasi were significantly higher in rural habitats.

Conclusions

This updated seroprevalence map of L. infantum infection in dogs in Spain defines non-endemic, hypoendemic, endemic and hyperendemic areas, and confirms P. perniciosus as the most abundant sand fly vector in Spain.
Evaluation of a methylation classifier for predicting pre-cancer lesion among women with abnormal results between HPV16/18 and cytology
Authors: Gu Yuan-Yuan , Zhou Guan-Nan , Wang Qing , Ding Jing-Xin , Hua Ke-Qin
Published: April 2020

Background

Although HPV testing and cytology detection are successful for cervical screening in China, additional procedures are urgently required to avoid misdiagnosis and overtreatment. In this multicenter study, we collected cervical samples during screening in clinics. A total of 588 women with HPV16/18+ and/or cytology result ≥HSIL+ (high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion or worse) were referred to colposcopy for pathological diagnosis. Methylation of S5 was quantified by pyrosequencing.

Results

The S5 classifier separates women with ≥HSIL+ from <HSIL with a high area under the curve (AUC) of 0.86 (95% CI 0.840–0.910). The cutoff of 2.85 was conducted in our study. Remarkably, all cancer cases (n = 67) were detected by S5. The sensitivity of S5 for “≥HSIL+” was 89.1% (95% CI 86.2–92.4%), and the specificity was 76.6% (95% CI 72.2–78.9%). S5 could reduce unnecessary colposcopy referrals by 74% (95% CI 71.3–78.1%) with virtually no loss of sensitivity for HSIL+, and the follow-up data support the utility of the S5 classifier.

Conclusion

The S5 classifier with high sensitivity and specificity provided increasing diagnostic information for women with HPV16/18+ and/or cytology results and could reduce the numerous unnecessary colposcopy referrals and avoid overtreatment.
Urinary [TIMP-2] × [IGFBP7] and serum procalcitonin to predict and assess the risk for short-term outcomes in septic and non-septic critically ill patients
Authors: Godi Ilaria , De Rosa Silvia , Martino Francesca , Bazzano Simona , Martin Marina , Boni Elisa , Carta Maria Rosa , Tamayo Diaz Claudia , Mari Gaia , Lorenzin Anna , de Cal Massimo , Corradi Valentina , Caprara Carlotta , Giavarina Davide , Ronco Claudio
Published: April 2020

Background

Biomarkers can play a critical role by facilitating diagnosis and stratification of disease, as well as assessment or prediction of disease severity. Urinary tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 and insulin-like growth factor binding protein 7 product ([TIMP-2] × [IGFBP7]) predict the development and progression of AKI and recently procalcitonin (PCT), a widely used biomarker for sepsis diagnosis and management, has been associated with AKI occurrence in ICU patients. To assess combinations of [TIMP-2] × [IGFBP7] and PCT results for prediction and risk stratification of short-term outcomes in septic and non-septic patients, a retrospective cohort analysis of critically ill patients was performed in a multidisciplinary ICU. ROC curve analysis was used in order to evaluate predictive performance of combined results of [TIMP-2] × [IGFBP7] and PCT at the time of admission for AKI development. To verify the utility of adding [TIMP-2] × [IGFBP7] and PCT results for risk assessment, we evaluated the predictive value of having a single-marker positivity compared to a double-marker positivity using the widely used cut-off of 0.3 (ng/mL)2/1000 for [TIMP-2] × [IGFBP7] and 0.5 μg/L for PCT. Risk assessment for AKI occurrence within 48 h, acute kidney disease (AKD) and mortality at 7 days was performed by logistic/Cox regression analysis.

Results

433 patients were analysed, of whom 168 had AKI within 48 h (93 septic and 65 non-septic patients). Combination of [TIMP-2] × [IGFBP7] and PCT showed a good predictive ability for AKI occurrence (AUC 0.81, 95% CI 0.77–0.86,p < 0.001, Sens 78%, Spec 73%). Combinations of biomarkers increased the odd ratios (OR) considerably. A single-marker positivity showed a fourfold risk increase, while the double-marker positivity a 26-fold risk increase for AKI occurrence. Moreover, the double-marker positivity showed an elevated risk for AKD at 7 days in non-septic patients (OR 15.9, 95% CI 3,21–73,57,p < 0.001) and for mortality within 7 days in septic patients (HR 4.1, 95% CI 1.4–11.8,p = 0.001).

Conclusions

Although combining the results of [TIMP-2] × [IGFBP7] and PCT may be a useful tool to identify and stratify ICU patients at high risk for septic AKI and short-term adverse outcomes, data should be confirmed in a large prospective study.
A reliable technique to study nonlinear time-fractional coupled Korteweg–de Vries equations
Authors: Akinyemi Lanre , Iyiola Olaniyi S.
Published: April 2020

This paper employs an efficient technique, namely q-homotopy analysis transform method, to study a nonlinear coupled system of equations with Caputo fractional-time derivative. The nonlinear fractional coupled systems studied in this present investigation are the generalized Hirota–Satsuma coupled with KdV, the coupled KdV, and the modified coupled KdV equations which are used as a model in nonlinear physical phenomena arising in biology, chemistry, physics, and engineering. The series solution obtained using this method is proved to be reliable and accurate with minimal computations. Several numerical comparisons are made with well-known analytical methods and the exact solutions when $\alpha =1$α=1. It is evident from the results obtained that the proposed method outperformed other methods in handling the coupled systems considered in this paper. The effect of the fractional order on the problem considered is investigated, and the error estimate when compared with exact solution is presented.
Persuasive antimicrobial stewardship intervention in the context of a KPC outbreak: a controlled interrupted time series analysis
Authors: Rocha-Pereira Nuno , Figueiredo Dias Paulo , Correia Sofia , Shahriari Shirin , Neves João , Teixeira José , Paiva José Artur , Lima Alves Carlos , Azevedo Ana
Published: April 2020

Introduction

Antimicrobial resistance is a major public health threat. Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) is one of the key strategies to overcome resistance, but robust evidence on the effect of specific interventions is lacking. We report an interrupted time series (ITS) analysis of a persuasive AMS intervention implemented during a KPC producing Klebsiella pneumoniae outbreak.

Methods

A controlled ITS for carbapenem consumption, total antibiotic consumption and antibiotic-free days, between January 2012 and May 2018 was performed, using segmented regression analysis. The AMS intervention was implemented in the Vascular Surgery ward starting on April 2016 in the context of a KPC outbreak. The General Surgery ward was taken as a control group. Data were aggregated by month for both wards, including 51 pre-intervention and 26 intervention points.

Results

The AMS intervention produced a level change in carbapenem consumption of − 11.14 DDDs/100 patient-days accompanied by a decreasing trend of total antibiotic consumption and stable rate of antibiotic-free days in Vascular Surgery ward. These differences were not apparent in the control group. No differences in mortality or readmission rates between pre-intervention and intervention periods were noticed in any of the groups.

Conclusion

Persuasive AMS interventions on top of previously implemented restrictive interventions can reduce carbapenem consumption without increasing total antibiotic consumption. Starting persuasive AMS interventions in an outbreak setting does not compromise the sustainability of the intervention.
The boon and bane of boldness: movement syndrome as saviour and sink for population genetic diversity
Authors: Premier Joseph , Fickel Jörns , Heurich Marco , Kramer-Schadt Stephanie
Published: April 2020

Background

Many felid species are of high conservation concern, and with increasing human disturbance the situation is worsening. Small isolated populations are at risk of genetic impoverishment decreasing within-species biodiversity. Movement is known to be a key behavioural trait that shapes both demographic and genetic dynamics and affects population survival. However, we have limited knowledge on how different manifestations of movement behaviour translate to population processes. In this study, we aimed to 1) understand the potential effects of movement behaviour on the genetic diversity of small felid populations in heterogeneous landscapes, while 2) presenting a simulation tool that can help inform conservation practitioners following, or considering, population management actions targeting the risk of genetic impoverishment.

Methods

We developed a spatially explicit individual-based population model including neutral genetic markers for felids and applied this to the example of Eurasian lynx. Using a neutral landscape approach, we simulated reintroductions into a three-patch system, comprising two breeding patches separated by a larger patch of differing landscape heterogeneity, and tested for the effects of various behavioural movement syndromes and founder population sizes. We explored a range of movement syndromes by simulating populations with various movement model parametrisations that range from ‘shy’ to ‘bold’ movement behaviour.

Results

We find that movement syndromes can lead to a higher loss of genetic diversity and an increase in between population genetic structure for both “bold” and “shy” movement behaviours, depending on landscape conditions, with larger decreases in genetic diversity and larger increases in genetic differentiation associated with bold movement syndromes, where the first colonisers quickly reproduce and subsequently dominate the gene pool. In addition, we underline the fact that a larger founder population can offset the genetic losses associated with subpopulation isolation and gene pool dominance.

Conclusions

We identified a movement syndrome trade-off for population genetic variation, whereby bold-explorers could be saviours - by connecting populations and promoting panmixia, or sinks - by increasing genetic losses via a ‘founder takes all’ effect, whereas shy-stayers maintain a more gradual genetic drift due to their more cautious behaviour. Simulations should incorporate movement behaviour to provide better projections of long-term population viability and within-species biodiversity, which includes genetic diversity. Simulations incorporating demographics and genetics have great potential for informing conservation management actions, such as population reintroductions or reinforcements. Here, we present such a simulation tool for solitary felids.
Review and insight on the behavioral aspects of cybersecurity
Authors: Maalem Lahcen Rachid Ait , Caulkins Bruce , Mohapatra Ram , Kumar Manish
Published: April 2020

Stories of cyber attacks are becoming a routine in which cyber attackers show new levels of intention by sophisticated attacks on networks. Unfortunately, cybercriminals have figured out profitable business models and they take advantage of the online anonymity. A serious situation that needs to improve for networks’ defenders. Therefore, a paradigm shift is essential to the effectiveness of current techniques and practices. Since the majority of cyber incidents are human enabled, this shift requires expanding research to underexplored areas such as behavioral aspects of cybersecurity. It is more vital to focus on social and behavioral issues to improve the current situation. This paper is an effort to provide a review of relevant theories and principles, and gives insights including an interdisciplinary framework that combines behavioral cybersecurity, human factors, and modeling and simulation.
Computational simulations of near-continuum gas flow using Navier-Stokes-Fourier equations with slip and jump conditions based on the modal discontinuous Galerkin method
Authors: Chourushi T. , Rahimi A. , Singh S. , Myong R. S.
Published: April 2020

Blunt-body configurations are the most common geometries adopted for non-lifting re-entry vehicles. Hypersonic re-entry vehicles experience different flow regimes during flight due to drastic changes in atmospheric density. The conventional Navier-Stokes-Fourier equations with no-slip and no-jump boundary conditions may not provide accurate information regarding the aerothermodynamic properties of blunt-bodies in flow regimes away from the continuum. In addition, direct simulation Monte Carlo method requires significant computational resources to analyze the near-continuum flow regime. To overcome these shortcomings, the Navier-Stokes-Fourier equations with slip and jump conditions were numerically solved. A mixed-type modal discontinuous Galerkin method was employed to achieve the appropriate numerical accuracy. The computational simulations were conducted for different blunt-body configurations with varying freestream Mach and Knudsen numbers. The results show that the drag coefficient decreases with an increased Mach number, while the heat flux coefficient increases. On the other hand, both the drag and heat flux coefficients increase with a larger Knudsen number. Moreover, for an Apollo-like blunt-body configuration, as the flow enters into non-continuum regimes, there are considerable losses in the lift-to-drag ratio and stability.
Modified selective aortic root reconstruction with valve repair for treatment of Stanford A aortic dissection
Authors: Abd Al Jawad Mohammed
Published: April 2020

Background

Acute aortic dissection is a serious emergency with a significant impact on mortality and morbidity. Many patients present with hemodynamic instability that may prevent them from being transported to more experienced centers. We aim to present our experience with a modified limited root approach in terms of the operative details and early results.

Results

This retrospective study included 27 patients who presented with Stanford A aortic dissection and underwent modified selective root replacement. All patients were followed up using transthoracic echocardiography at 6 months postoperatively and at yearly intervals thereafter. Computed tomography (CT) angiography was performed 12 months after the initial surgery.

A total of 92.6% of patients required concomitant aortic valve repair. There was no operative mortality related to the operation itself; however, four patients died during the follow-up period. One patient developed new severe aortic regurgitation in the 6th month of follow-up. One patient developed a pseudoaneurysm related to the suture line that was diagnosed by CT angiography in the 16th month of follow-up.

Conclusions

The early results of modified selective root reconstruction with aortic valve repair are promising. This procedure is a quick, reliable, easily reproducible, and technically undemanding valve-sparing treatment for acute aortic root dissection.
Newly Diagnosed Myeloma in 2020
Authors: Moreau Philippe , Touzeau Cyrille , Vij Ravi , Goldsmith Scott R. , Rosko Ashley E.
Published: April 2020

Over the last few years, there has been great progress in the treatment of multiple myeloma (MM), with many new agents and combinations having been approved and being now routinely incorporated into treatment strategies for newly diagnosed patients. As a result, patients are experiencing benefits in terms of survival and better tolerance. However, the multitude of treatment options also presents a challenge to select the best options tailored to the specific patient situation. Frontline autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) is the standard of care for fit patients younger than age 71 who are newly diagnosed with MM, and triplet combinations are the backbone of induction therapy before ASCT. Post-transplant consolidation and prolonged lower-intensity maintenance are two strategies that have been used to deepen responses and delay progression. For older patients not eligible for ASCT, lenalidomide (len) is increasingly being used as part of frontline therapy, and current approaches are now targeting combinations of anti-CD38 antibodies. Strategies for selecting therapeutic regimens for older adults newly diagnosed with MM can be augmented with use of predictive tools to better capture physiologic age and estimate treatment tolerance. Here we review a decade of trials identifying clinical endpoints and toxicities relevant for the frontline treatment of younger patients and older adults.
The Resurgence of Antibody Drug Conjugates in Cancer Therapeutics: Novel Targets and Payloads
Authors: Boni Valentina , Sharma Manish R. , Patnaik Amita
Published: April 2020

Antibody drug conjugates (ADCs) are an emerging class of therapeutics that consist of a cytotoxic agent linked covalently to an antibody, which is directed toward a specific cell surface target expressed by tumor cells and/or the microenvironment. ADCs leverage the specificity of the antibody such that it functions as a carrier to deliver the cytotoxic payload into the tumor. Four parameters are considered critical for this class of complex engineered therapeutics: target selection, antibody, cytotoxic payload, as well as conjugation and linker technology. The development of this class of drugs has proven more complex than expected. Several challenges have arisen, including a lack of true tumor antigen specificity, early release of the cytotoxic payload into the bloodstream due to linker instability, and low potency of the payload, resulting in either greater toxicity or lack of improved efficacy compared with unconjugated cytotoxics. The approval of trastuzumab emtansine in 2013 for HER2-positive breast cancer served as a proof of concept that ADCs have therapeutic application in solid tumors. Two novel ADCs have recently been approved: trastuzumab deruxtecan for HER2-positive breast cancer and enfortumab vedotin for locally advanced or metastatic urothelial cancer. Trastuzumab deruxtecan is distinguished by a unique biochemical structure with a novel cytotoxic payload, deruxtecan—a highly potent, topoisomerase I inhibitor. Enfortumab vedotin is directed toward nectin-4 and represents an example of successful and strategic target selection. This review focuses on the concepts underlying the choice of suitable targets and novel payloads, discusses specific examples of ADCs in preclinical and clinical development, and provides future directions related to this unique class of therapeutics.
Best Foot Forward: Neoadjuvant Systemic Therapy as Standard of Care in Triple-Negative and HER2-Positive Breast Cancer
Authors: Sharma Priyanka , Connolly Roisin M. , Roussos Torres Evanthia T. , Thompson Alastair
Published: April 2020

Neoadjuvant systemic treatment of early-stage breast cancer has been used to improve resectability and reduce the extent of breast and axillary surgery. More recently, several other merits of neoadjuvant systemic treatment have emerged, including the ability to tailor clinically available adjuvant systemic therapy options based on pathologic response and to serve as a platform for early assessment of novel agents and response biomarkers and as an avenue for treatment optimization investigations (local and systemic therapy escalation and de-escalation trials guided by pathologic response). Attainment of a pathologic complete response (pCR) is associated with excellent long-term outcomes; conversely, the presence of residual disease is associated with a high risk of recurrence for patients with HER2-positive breast cancer and triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Treatment strategies in early-stage HER2-positive breast cancer include regimens incorporating trastuzumab, pertuzumab, ado-trastuzumab emtansine, and neratinib, resulting in high pCR rates and overall excellent long-term outcomes. Currently available cytotoxic regimens yield pCR for 35% to 55% of patients with TNBC, and immune checkpoint inhibition is showing early promise for this subtype. New drug and predictive biomarker evaluations in the neoadjuvant setting aim to develop optimal treatment strategies for the individual patient, with the ultimate goal of maximizing efficacy and minimizing toxicity. Research efforts involving novel agents are being undertaken to address the high risk of recurrence for patients with residual disease. Omission of breast surgery following neoadjuvant chemotherapy requires further development of imaging and biopsy techniques to accurately assess the extent of residual disease before clinical application.
Transformation of Personnel Management System in Transition to Digital Economy
Authors: Kaufman Natal'ya , Gluschenko Marina
Published: April 2020

In the article the problem of transformation of a personnel management system and its functions in the conditions of digital economy is considered. The role of economy of knowledge and its participation in innovative development and management of modern organization is analyzed, the interrelation of digital economy with business transformation is shown. The concept of digitalization as effective translation process of all information system in the new accelerated format of use of technologies is given. The system of adaptation of personnel as one of significant elements of a personnel management system is considered, the problems which are slowing down successful adaptation of employees are revealed. Effective digital tools are offered: for adaptation of personnel – the automated Test Term 2.0 program, for effective process of training – LMS learning management system, for processing and management of these employees – the information management system personnel (HRIS). The modern directions of development in the sphere of HR bring the organizations to the new level of management of human resources and also increase their competitiveness.
Access to sport and recreation services for visually impaired and blind people - a case study of the city of Wrocław
Authors: Maśliński Jarosław , Wasilewski Patryk , Piepiora Paweł , Witkowski Kazimierz
Published: April 2020

Access to sports services is important for the physical development and functioning of blind and visually impaired people. Access to this type of activity also affects the rehabilitation of people with visual impairment and their daily functioning. Sport activity and participation in various forms of recreation is a very broad concept in physical culture. Understanding the form of physical activities that the visually impaired and blind people prefer can help educators, physical education teachers, and people associated with visually impaired and blind children in planning physical activities. It is important to understand the needs of such people regarding the sports environment and whether they are given active participation in it through infrastructure adapted to the needs of youth with sight disabilities. The aim of the study was to find out the opinions of blind and visually impaired students about the availability of sports and recreation services and equipment in their immediate surroundings. The subject of the study were boys and girls with low vision and blind attending the seventh and eighth grades of primary, secondary (technical and high school) schools at the Special Educational Center for Blind and Visually Impaired Children in Wrocław and among the graduates of that school. The subjects belonged to the age group in the range from 13 to 25 years. The study group included 32 boys and 21 girls. Based on the documentation, the blind group includes students with a significant degree of disability, vision defects. The visually impaired include persons with various moderate and mild eyesight injuries. The research used a survey method of my own authorship, which allowed to know the problem while maintaining anonymity. 26 questions related to min. interests of respondents, access to sports bases, sports sections for the blind and visually impaired. The obtained results showed that it is worth making young people aware of the importance of participation in broadly understood physical culture. Equal opportunities for boys and girls to engage in various types of sports should also be equalized. Not always sports that are preferred by young people are available to them.
Screening of IAA Production on the Interaction of Microalgae and Bacteria in the Glagah Consortium
Authors: Rahmawati Betty , Ilmi Miftahul , Budiman Arief , Agus Suyono Eko
Published: April 2020

ABSTRACT: The Glagah Consortium is a mixed culture of microalgae and bacteria isolated from Glagah Beach, Yogyakarta. Microalgae and bacteria in the consortium interact with each other. There is an assumed Bacillus bacterium that can produce IAA in the Glagah Consortium. Tryptophan is one of the precursors in IAA biosynthesis. L-tryptophan and antibiotics were given to the Glagah consortium culture medium to determine the role of bacteria in producing IAA. This research used BBM medium by giving three variations of L-tryptophan concentration, namely 0; 0,02; and 0.2 g L-1. Each concentration is given antibiotics Vancomycin and Gentamycin for 100 ppm and 25 ppm. Quantification of IAA by using Salkowski reagents and calculated IAA concentrations with a spectrophotometer. Each treatment consisted of three replications. The other parameters tested were the number of microalgae cells, dry weight, cell productivity, biomass productivity and lipid productivity. The results in this research shows that IAA in all samples with the highest concentration on the second day of observation, they are 0.420 ± µg mL-1; 0.681 µg mL-1; 1,725 ​​µg mL-1; 0.261 µg mL-1; 0.565 µg mL-1; and 0.667 µg mL-1. The giving of L-tryptophan in the Glagah consortium culture can increase IAA concentrations, specific growth rates, biomass and lipids. Besides that, the giving of antibiotics led to lower productivity of cells, biomass and lipids of the Glagah consortium.
Isolation and Characterization of Mesophilic Bacteria from Rhizosphere of Plant Rice (Oryza sativa) from Lodhran, Pakistan
Authors: Bibi Aasia , Ahmed Amer , Batool Kashfa , A-Rahman Jameel
Published: April 2020

ABSTRACT: The present study demonstrated isolation and characterization of 48 bacterial strains (ABOs01-ABOs48) from rhizosphere of rice plant (Oryza sativa) of Rind Jada (Kahror Pacca), Punjab, Pakistan. Morphological studies including colony color, bacterial shape and gram staining were performed and colonies were observed to be either orange yellow, light yellow, pink, greenish yellow, white, or off-white in appearance. Gram staining showed that out of 48 isolates, 38 were gram positive and 10 were gram negative. Various Biochemical tests were performed to identify these strains; the results were used to identify these strains at the species levels. These strains belongs to the following species Erwinia stewartii (13), Klebsiella terrigena (9), Klebsiella pneumonia susp. Ozaene (8), Serratia plymuthica (6), Yersinia (5), Escherichia blattae (5), 1 Edwardsiella ictaluri (1), and Obesumbacterium proteus (1). Additionally, amylase test showed that 39 strains were positive while 9 were negative. Conversely, all strains were negative for cellulase production. Finally, Antibiotics resistance showed 23 isolates were sensitive vs 25 resistant to ampicillin and 4 isolates were resistant vs 44 sensitive to penicillin. These findings suggested a great microbial diversity in rice plant rhizosphere which demands more investigations for agricultural and industrial purposes.
Morphological and Molecular Genetic Assessment Of Some Thymus Species
Authors: M. Alqahtani Mesfer , A. Abdein Mohamed , Abou El-Leel Omnia F.
Published: April 2020

ABSTRACT: This study aimed to determine the morphological and genetically assessment in five Thymus species: Thymus vulgaris, Origanum vulgare, Thymus argenteus, Thymus citriodorus and Origanum syricum. Morphological assessment for the five Thymus species were obtained based on some growth parameters including: Plant height, Number of branches, Leaves fresh weight, Leaves dry weight and Volatile Oil%. Molecular genetic variability was assessed based on (SCoT-PCR) and (ISSR-PCR) analysis. Growth parameters were illustrated among five Thymus species in all growth parameters were had significant differences. The SCoT-PCR analysis using 5 out of 10 primers tested, the results illustrated that SCoT primers produced 24 Polymorphic bands out of 39 amplified bands with polymorphic average 60.52%, also five ISSR primers out of 14 primers tested, which analysis were generated 14 polymorphic bands out of 23 amplified bands with polymorphic average 60.86%. As well as assessment of SCoT and ISSR molecular marker techniques succeeded in generating reproducible and reliable amplified bands and from obvious results, SCoT-PCR analysis was better than ISSR-PCR analysis in molecular genetics. On The other hand, results obtained from an UPGMA dendrograms resulted in two genetically distinct clusters were determined between Thymus species. This results were conducted that SCoT and ISSR analysis could be useful as tools for identifying Thymes species in breeding programs.
The Antibacterial and Coagulant Activity of Psidium Guajava Leaves Extracts in Purification of Wastewater
Authors: El-Sesy Marwa E. , Mahran Belal N.A.
Published: April 2020

ABSTRACT: This study expounded the ability to use Psidium guajava leaves extract as coagulant, fecal coliform removal and for decreasing values of some heavy metals. The optimum dosages of Psidium guajava leaves extracts needed for treatment the collected wastewater samples were studied. The Physico-chemical characterization and bacteriological analysis for wastewater samples were determined before and after treatment. Results demonstrated that the turbidity removal is observed up to 73 % and fecal coliform removal about 97% using 1.5 mg/L of Psidium guajava leaves ethanol extract. There is a marked decrease in the values of some heavy metals as copper, zinc, chromium, cadmium and lead values. The antimicrobial activity of leaves extracts against some pathogenic bacteria using disc diffusion method and viability test was examined, revealed bactericidal effect on Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus and E. coli. Studying the ultra-structure of E. coli and Bacillus cereus cells treated with MICs extracts of Psidium guajava leaves revealed the deformation of cells accompanied with rupture of cell membranes at certain sites and leakage of cellular contents. Using gas chromatograph Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), to identify chemical compositions of Psidium guajava leaves extract and their bioactive components indicate the presence of β-Caryophyllene and Alpha-Bisabolol that reveled the biological activities of Psidium guajava as Antimicrobial. Psidium guajava leaves extract seems to be environmental friendly and an effective agent in treatment wastewater.
From Wuhan to Westminster: can NHS critical care cope with coronavirus?
Authors: Westaby S
Published: April 2020

There is no panacea for COVID-19, but during this pandemic, the use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation is vital to save young lives.
Women as perpetrators of intimate partner violence in Ghana
Authors: Tenkorang Eric Y.
Published: April 2020

Previous studies on intimate partner violence in sub-Saharan Africa and Ghana focused mainly on male-perpetrated violence, with little emphasis on female-perpetrated abuse and the factors influencing it. Using nationally representative cross-sectional data collected in 2017 from a sample of 2,289 Ghanaian women and applying regression techniques, this study explored the determinants of female-perpetrated violence. Results indicate that a substantial proportion of respondents perpetrated emotional violence against their partners; few used physical or sexual violence. Victims of intimate partner violence were more likely to perpetrate violence against their partners than those who had never been victimised. Women were more likely to perpetrate specific types of violence (physical, sexual or emotional) if they: thought their partners were controlling; expected to encounter violence in the future; thought their relationships had some level of tension; and/or were exposed to violence in their early childhood. The findings provide qualified support for the proposition that women perpetrate violence against their partners for reasons of self-defence but also show that the violence is mutual and bidirectional. The findings point to the complexities of the context of the violence perpetrated by women and suggest that domestic violence interventions should acknowledge these complexities.
Visible light communications: increasing data rates with polarization division multiplexing
Authors: Chvojka Petr , Burton Andrew , Pesek Petr , Li Xicong , Ghassemlooy Zabih , Zvanovec Stanislav , Anthony Haigh Paul
Published: April 2020

In this Letter, we propose a new configuration for visible light communication systems, which results in doubling of the data rate due to the use of polarization division multiplexing. As light-emitting diodes are unpolarized incoherent light sources, we isolate both the perpendicular

s

and parallel

p

modes for independent modulation. For the first time, to the best of our knowledge, we show that it is possible to transmit and successfully recover two separate orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) signals on each polarization (pol-OFDM). Furthermore, we compare the performance of the pol-OFDM system with the transmission of a single conventional OFDM signal without a polarizer over the same physical link. We show that similar bit error rates can be achieved while obtaining

∼

45
%

improvement in both the data rate and spectral efficiency due to polarization multiplexing.
Efficient compressive and Bayesian characterization of biphoton frequency spectra
Authors: Simmerman E. M. , Lu H.-H. , Weiner A. M. , Lukens J. M.
Published: April 2020

Frequency-bin qudits constitute a promising tool for quantum information processing, but their high dimensionality can make for tedious characterization measurements. Here we introduce and compare compressive sensing and Bayesian mean estimation for recovering the spectral correlations of entangled photon pairs. Using a conventional compressive sensing algorithm, we reconstruct joint spectra with up to a 26-fold reduction in measurement time compared to the equivalent raster scan. Applying a custom Bayesian model to the same data, we then additionally realize reliable and consistent quantification of uncertainty. These efficient methods of biphoton characterization should advance our ability to use the high degree of parallelism and complexity afforded by frequency-bin encoding.
Game sketching: Exploring approaches to research-creation for games
Authors: Westecott Emma
Published: April 2020

Digital games are a critical form in which makers express models of play that create meaning beyond entertainment. Game culture is pervasive and amidst a wider technological context that invites all our active participation provides one setting for creative self-expression. Games collapse the distance between makers and players in a uniquely active manner and whilst this paper centers on possibilities for game making, all players co-create their own gameplay experience, which holds potential for enacting individual agency. Based on experience introducing game design and development education at an art and design university over the past decade as part of the Digital Futures programme, this paper develops some early discussions around the concept of game sketching to both pedagogic and research-creation ends.
Making SAD Home: An exploration into developing an Alexa with depression
Authors: Lessio Nadine
Published: April 2020

While chatbots are a space that has been researched and worked on for the past few decades, a renewed industry interest in artificial intelligence (AI) and the popularity of devices like Amazon Alexa and Google Home has pushed them back into the spotlight. According to Edison Research and National Public Media, an estimated 21 per cent of US households now use a voice-enabled smart device in some capacity. Similarly, the popularity of texting, technology-mediated communication and social media has laid the groundwork for the return of chatbots. Chatbots are even making inroads into areas like mental health, where they are being used to address the growing mental health concerns of wellness and loneliness. While this is an interesting development, the conversation of what is considered useful in a mental health chatbot is still very much driven by commercial applications. This article considers using natural language processing and networking technologies to explore a more DIY approach to mental-health-based chatbots, by documenting the development of an Alexa that experiences depression.
Recherchepraxis bei der Verbesserung von Interferenzfehlern aus dem Italienischen, Portugiesischen und Spanischen: Eine explorative Beobachtungsstudie mit DaF-Lernenden
Authors: Müller-Spitzer Carolin , Nied Curcio Martina , Domínguez Vázquez María José , Silva Dias Idalete Maria , Wolfer Sascha
Published: April 2020

In the past two decades, more and more dictionary usage studies have been published, but most of them deal with the question what users appreciate about dictionaries, which dictionaries they use and which information they need in specific situations. These studies presuppose that users indeed consult lexicographic resources. However, language teachers and lecturers of linguistics often have the impression that students use too few high-quality dictionaries in their every-day work. Against this background, we started an international cooperation project to collect empirical data evaluating that impression. Our aim was to evaluate what students (here from the Romance language area) actually do when they correct language problems. We used a new methodological setting to do this (screen recording with a thinking-aloud task). The empirical data we gained offers a broad insight into what language users really do when solving language-related tasks today.
Wörterbuchbenutzung von polnischen Germanistikstudierenden
Authors: Taborek Janusz
Published: April 2020

In this paper we present the results of a survey conducted among students of German Philology at Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań in the years 2015–2017. The target group was composed of first-semester students from whom we collected data about their lexicographical competence at the start of the program. The results contain some interesting findings, e.g. students prefer online dictionaries, but the number of students using print dictionaries is comparable and we have also observed the rising number of students who use smartphone applications. The aim of the survey is to provide information for university instructors who teach German as a foreign language (DaF) and lexicography.
Ertragsstruktur und Ergebnisentwicklung von Genossenschaftsbanken
Authors: Helms Nils , Kalhöfer Christian , Hölscher Reinhold
Published: April 2020

Gegenstand der vorliegenden Untersuchung sind die vergangene und die zukünftige Ertragsentwicklung von Genossenschaftsbanken. Im Rahmen einer einperiodischen sowie mehrperiodischen Simulation ergab sich in vielen Fällen eine Reingewinnspanne, die in der historischen Betrachtungsperiode niemals oder nur äußerst selten unterschritten wurde. Nicht zuletzt vor dem Hintergrund der vermutlich steigenden Eigenkapitalanforderungen folgt daraus für die Genossenschaftsbanken ein deutlicher Handlungsbedarf.
Le Consortium régional de recherche en éducation du Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean : un nouveau jalon pour un partenariat historique
Authors: Allaire Stéphane
Published: April 2020

Ce texte rend compte, en premier lieu, de l’organisation d’un partenariat unique en éducation, le Consortium régional de recherche en éducation. Ensuite, nous expliquons une nouvelle orientation en émergence et qui bâtit à partir de ses acquis. Par cette contribution, nous souhaitons partager des modalités susceptibles d’aiguiller la structuration de la recherche en éducation au plan régional, selon une perspective multidisciplinaire, voire interdisciplinaire. En outre, nous désirons soumettre une articulation préliminaire d’orientations qui, à terme, permettront d’étudier des processus qui ont cours dans le cadre des activités d’un partenariat recherche-pratique.
Découvrir sa posture d’auteur pour enseigner autrement, vers plus de créativité.
Authors: Sierro Nathalie , Turgeon Elaine
Published: April 2020

Découvrir sa posture d’auteur est un cheminement des plus passionnants! Cette expérience demande à la fois une ouverture et un engagement sans compromis. Dans cet article, une enseignante témoigne de son parcours d’élève et d’enseignante et expose comment la démarche des cercles d’auteurs lui a permis de découvrir sa posture d’auteur et de retrouver sa créativité pour enseigner autrement.
L’importance d’instaurer un climat de confiance pour profiter pleinement de la démarche des cercles d’auteurs
Authors: Rainville Brigitte , Turgeon Elaine
Published: April 2020

Dans cet article, une enseignante témoigne de l’importance qu’elle attribue au fait  d’installer un climat favorable aux échanges avant de démarrer les cercles d’auteurs. Elle partage, en toute humilité, quelques moyens pour y parvenir devenus, au fil du temps, des incontournables dans sa classe. Elle expose d’abord comment elle s’y prend pour développer un climat de classe bienveillant, puis, pour donner le goût d’écrire à ses élèves. Elle explique finalement comment elle met en place, de façon progressive et à l’aide de la modélisation, ses premiers cercles d’auteurs, et expose quelques problèmes rencontrés ainsi que des pistes de solution.
Des enseignantes engagées dans une communauté d’apprentissage sur les cercles d’auteurs : diverses retombées observées sur leur développement professionnel en enseignement de l’écriture
Authors: Gagnon Brigitte , Tremblay Ophélie , Turgeon Elaine
Published: April 2020

Cet article vise à illustrer les modalités mises en place pour soutenir le développement professionnel d’un groupe d’enseignantes dans l’ajustement de leurs pratiques au regard de l’enseignement et de l’apprentissage de l’écriture. Il démontre l’impact de la communauté d’apprentissage (CA) comme dispositif d’appropriation de pratiques innovantes en enseignement et en apprentissage de l’écriture, par un soutien au développement professionnel, tant sur le plan individuel que collectif.
Cercles d’auteurs et ateliers d’écriture : des dispositifs innovants pour un enseignement engagé de l’écriture au primaire
Authors: Tremblay Ophélie , Turgeon Elaine , Gagnon Brigitte
Published: April 2020

Cette introduction présente la démarche des cercles d'auteurs et celle des ateliers d'écriture et résume brièvement le contenu du numéro à travers la présentation des quatre articles scientifiques et neuf articles professionnels qui le composent.