bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hospitalized children’s opinions about peripheral venous access process (PVAP)
Authors: Çakırer Çalbayram Nazan , Altundağ Sebahat
Published: February 2018

Research problem/aim: This study was carried out to determine the thoughts of school-age (6-12 years old) children about peripheral venous access process. Method: The study was carried out in qualitative descriptive design using semi-structured interview method. The universe of the study was composed of children aged between 6 and 12 hospitalized in the aforementioned hospital. Findings: The children who were informed before the process said the warnings were, “take a deep breath, don’t move your hand, calm down”. The children reported that they felt “excitement, sadness, pain, and fear” while the vascular access intervention was being performed. It was observed that the children had many negative emotions and experiences about vascular access process. Conclusions: Children may need both physical and psychological support for invasive process, such as vascular access process. Nurses as primary caregivers should give this support to children.
Urban Slum Upgrading Policy In Jakarta (Case Study: Kampung Deret Program Implementation)
Authors: Nurdiansyah Alfian
Published: February 2018

For several decades, Jakarta has witnessed massive urbanization that leads to urban slum problems. The problems have always been associated with urban kampung, the informal neighborhood which grows and tends to be more impoverished over times. The local government has implemented the Kampung Improvement Program (KIP) to reduce the problems. The program which included sites-and-services program, and resettlement policy was not entirely successful to overcome slum problems. In 2013, the Governor of Jakarta launched Kampung Deret Program (KDP) as an alternative to the on-site slum upgrading policy. However, the KDP was eventually postponed and removed from the local budget plan of Jakarta Province in 2015 due to some problems in the implementation. This article is aimed at explaining the effectiveness of the KDP program and analyzing alternative strategies for effective policy implementation of KDP. This study uses quantitative methods by applying observation, interview and documentation to collect the primary and secondary data. Petogogan and Pasar Minggu in South Jakarta were selected as cases. The study shows that there are technical difficulties faced by the authorities during the implementation of KDP. KDP Petogogan was quite successful comparing to the KDP Pasar Minggu in terms of installed housing, basic infrastructures-facilities, and security of tenure. The implementation was quite successful due to the application of some form of equal approaches which were based on the characteristic of policy object and the slum dwellers in every selected slum. Following the approach, KDP was implemented under three packages: KDP I, KDP II, and KDP III. It was finally found that the KDP packages were considered as an effective on-site slum upgrading policy that can minimize resistance and maximize participation from the slum dwellers.
On a program manifold’s stability of one contour automatic control systems
Authors: Zumatov S. S.
Published: February 2018

Methodology of analysis of stability is expounded to the one contour systems automatic control feedback in the presence of non-linearities. The methodology is based on the use of the simplest mathematical models of the nonlinear controllable systems. Stability of program manifolds of one contour automatic control systems is investigated. The sufficient conditions of program manifold’s absolute stability of one contour automatic control systems are obtained. The Hurwitz’s angle of absolute stability was determined. The sufficient conditions of program manifold’s absolute stability of control systems by the course of plane in the mode of autopilot are obtained by means Lyapunov’s second method.
Using Volunteer Computing to Study Some Features of Diagonal Latin Squares
Authors: Vatutin Eduard , Zaikin Oleg , Kochemazov Stepan , Valyaev Sergey
Published: February 2018

In this research, the study concerns around several features of diagonal Latin squares (DLSs) of small order. Authors of the study suggest an algorithm for computing minimal and maximal numbers of transversals of DLSs. According to this algorithm, all DLSs of a particular order are generated, and for each square all its transversals and diagonal transversals are constructed. The algorithm was implemented and applied to DLSs of order at most 7 on a personal computer. The experiment for order 8 was performed in the volunteer computing project Gerasim@home. In addition, the problem of finding pairs of orthogonal DLSs of order 10 was considered and reduced to Boolean satisfiability problem. The obtained problem turned out to be very hard, therefore it was decomposed into a family of subproblems. In order to solve the problem, the volunteer computing project SAT@home was used. As a result, several dozen pairs of described kind were found.
Diagnostics and Identification of Injection Duration of Common Rail Diesel Injectors
Authors: Krogerus Tomi R. , Huhtala Kalevi J.
Published: February 2018

In this paper, we study the diagnostics and identification of injection duration of common rail (CR) diesel pilot injectors of dual-fuel engines. In these pilot injectors, the injected volume is small and the repeatability of the injections and identification of the drifts of the injectors are important factors, which need to be taken into account in achieving good repeatability (shot-to-shot with every cylinder) and therefore a well-balanced engine and reduced overall wear. A diagnostics method based on analysis of CR pressure signal with experimental verification results is presented. Using the developed method, the relative duration of injection events can be identified. In the method, the pressure signal during the injection is first extracted after the control of each injection event. After that, the signal is normalized and filtered. Then a derivative of the filtered signal is calculated. Change in the derivative of the filtered signal larger than a predefined threshold indicates an injection event which can be detected and its relative duration can be identified. The efficacy of the proposed diagnostics method is presented with the experimental results, which show that the developed method detects drifts in injection duration and the magnitude of drift. According to the result, ≥ 10 μs change (2%, 500 μs) in injection time can be identified.
Phytochemical profile, antimicrobial, antioxidant and antiobesity activities of Scolymus angiospermus Gaertn. Four fractions from Jericho/Palestine
Authors: Jaradat Nidal , Al-Lahham Saad
Published: February 2018

Background

Many recent studies have shown that medicinal plants, which have been used worldwide through the past history in the folkloric medicine, harbor a significant number of novel metabolic compounds with potent pharmacological properties. In several countries, the aerial parts of the Scolymus angiospermus plant have been used as a food supply and as a folkloric medicinal plant. The current study aimed is to investigate the antimicrobial, antilipase, antioxidant activities and phytochemical profile of methanolic, hexane, aqueous and ethyl acetate fractions obtained from the aerial parts of S. angiospermus.

Methods

Phytochemical assessments were based on standard analytical methods. The obtained fractions were evaluated for their antioxidant capacity and their antilipase activity using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and porcine pancreatic lipase inhibitory tests, respectively. Antimicrobial activity of the obtained fractions was evaluated using broth microdilution assay against several American Type Culture Collection bacterial and fungal strains and Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus clinical isolate.

Results

Our data showed that of all obtained fractions used in the above-mentioned assays, both of methanolic and aqueous fractions, had the highest content of flavonoids (24.93 ± 2.11 and 12.21 ± 2.11 mg QUE/g, respectively) and phenolic compounds (96.28 ± 2.87 and 91.25 ± 2.63 mg of GAEq/g, respectively) as well as the best levels of both antioxidant (half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) 13.67 ± 1.44 and 14.69 ± 1.97 µg/ml, respectively) and antilipase (IC50 134.89 ± 1.65 and 269.15 ± 2.33 µg/ml, respectively) activities. In addition, these fractions exhibited various levels of both antibacterial and antifungal activities. Hydrophilic fractions were more potent against the investigated bacterial strains, while hydrophobic fractions were more potent against the investigated fungal strains.

Conclusions

The hydrophilic fractions derived from S. angiospermus have shown the best antioxidant and antilipase effects. This is may be due to the high contents of phenols and/or flavonoids. However, further investigations are essential to isolate and identify the antioxidant, antilipase and antimicrobial compounds. Our data provide significant evidence that S. angiospermus can be very useful in the prevention and treatment of various infectious and non-infectious chronic diseases and as natural food preservatives.
English language support: A dialogical multi-literacies approach to teaching students from CALD backgrounds
Authors: Berniz Kate , Miller Andrew
Published: February 2018

Students in Western university contexts require multiple literacies, numeracies, and critical capacities to succeed. Participation requires a blend of English language capacity, cultural knowhow, and cognisance of the often-hidden racialized assumptions and dispositions underpinning literate performance. Students from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) backgrounds transitioning to Western university settings from local and international contexts often find themselves floundering in this complex sociocultural web. Many students struggle with the English language preferences of their institutions despite meeting International English Language Testing System (IELTS) requirements. Once enrolled, students from CALD backgrounds need to navigate the linguistic, semiotic, and cultural landscape of the university, both physically and virtually, to enter the discourses and practices of their chosen disciplines. Universities cannot afford to allow students to ‘sink or swim’ or struggle through with non-specialist or ad-hoc support. In response to a clear need for explicit and ongoing English language support for students from CALD backgrounds, the Student Learning Centre (SLC) at Flinders University in South Australia created the English Language Support Program (ELSP). The ELSP sets out to overcome prescriptive and assimilationist approaches to language support by adopting an eclectic blend of learner-centred, critical-creative, and multi-literacies approaches to learning and teaching. Rather than concentrate on skills and/or language appropriateness, the ELSP broadens its reach by unpacking the mechanics and machinations of university study through an intensive—and transgressive—multi-module program. This paper outlines the theoretical and pedagogical challenges of implementing the ELSP.
Employing a results-based algorithm to reduce laboratory utilization in ACTH stimulation testing
Authors: McDonough Ryan J. , Alba Patria , Dileepan Kavitha , Cernich Joseph T.
Published: February 2018

Background:

The High Dose Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH) Stimulation Test is the gold standard to diagnose adrenal insufficiency. Normal adrenal function is defined as a peak cortisol response to pharmacologic stimulation with cosyntropin of ≥18 μg/dL. Our practice was to obtain cortisol levels at 0, 30 and 60 min after cosyntropin administration. Once a value of ≥18 μg/dL has been obtained, adrenal insufficiency is ruled out and there is little diagnostic utility in subsequent stimulated levels.

Methods:

We aimed to decrease laboratory utilization by developing a results-based algorithm in the electronic medical record (EMR). Cortisol levels were analyzed on the 0 and 60 min samples; then an EMR discern rule automatically generated an order to analyze the 30-min sample if the 60-min cortisol level was subnormal.

Results:

Exclusion of adrenal insufficiency was excluded using one stimulated cortisol level in 8% prior to algorithm development. After several plan-do-study-act cycles, 99% of normal tests were performed using only one stimulated cortisol level.

Conclusions:

This laboratory-based algorithm resulted in reduced laboratory utilization, and aligned our practice to recommendations of the Pediatric Endocrine Society. Similar algorithms could be created for other dynamic tests to reduce unnecessary laboratory utilization.
Existence and regularity of mild solutions in some interpolation spaces for functional partial differential equations with nonlocal initial conditions
Authors: Zhang Xuping , Chen Qiyu , Li Yongxiang
Published: February 2018

This paper is devoted to study the existence and regularity of mild solutions in some interpolation spaces for a class of functional partial differential equations with nonlocal initial conditions. The linear part is assumed to be a sectorial operator in Banach space X. The fractional power theory and α-norm are used to discuss the problem so that the obtained results can be applied to equations with terms involving spatial derivatives. Moreover, we present an example to illustrate the application of main results.
Terahertz light-emitting graphene-channel transistor toward single-mode lasing
Authors: Yadav Deepika , Tamamushi Gen , Watanabe Takayuki , Mitsushio Junki , Tobah Youssef , Sugawara Kenta , Dubinov Alexander A. , Satou Akira , Ryzhii Maxim , Ryzhii Victor , Otsuji Taiichi
Published: February 2018

A distributed feedback dual-gate graphene-channel field-effect transistor (DFB-DG-GFET) was fabricated as a current-injection terahertz (THz) light-emitting laser transistor. We observed a broadband emission in a 1–7.6-THz range with a maximum radiation power of ~10 μW as well as a single-mode emission at 5.2 THz with a radiation power of ~0.1 μW both at 100 K when the carrier injection stays between the lower cutoff and upper cutoff threshold levels. The device also exhibited peculiar nonlinear threshold-like behavior with respect to the current-injection level. The LED-like broadband emission is interpreted as an amplified spontaneous THz emission being transcended to a single-mode lasing. Design constraints on waveguide structures for better THz photon field confinement with higher gain overlapping as well as DFB cavity structures with higher Q factors are also addressed towards intense, single-mode continuous wave THz lasing at room temperature.
CT guided neurolytic blockade of the coeliac plexus in patients with advanced and intractably painful pancreatic cancer
Authors: Rosland Jan Henrik , Geitung Jonn Terje
Published: February 2018

Background and aims:

Pain caused by infiltrating pancreatic cancer is complex in nature and may therefore be difficult to treat. In addition to conventional analgesics, neurolytic blockade of the coeliac plexus is often recommended. However, different techniques are advocated, and procedures vary, and the results may therefore be difficult to compare. Therefore strong evidence for the effect of this treatment is still lacking, and more studies are encouraged. Our aim was to describe our technique and procedures using a Computer Tomograph (CT) guided procedure with a dorsal approach and present the results.

Methods:

The procedures were performed in collaboration between a radiologist and an anaesthesiologist. All patients had advanced pancreatic cancer. The patients were placed in prone position on pillows, awake and monitored. Optimal placement of injection needles was guided by CT, and the radiologist injected a small dose of contrast as a control. When optimal needle position, the anaesthesiologist took over and completed the procedure. At first 40 mg methylprednisolone was injected to prevent inflammation. Thereafter a mixture of 99% ethanol diluted to 50% by ropivacaine 7.5 mg/mL to a total amount of 20–30 mL per needle was slowly injected. Repeated aspiration was performed during injection to avoid intravasal injection. Pain treatment and pain score was recorded and compared before and after the treatment.

Results:

Eleven procedures in 10 patients were performed. Age 49–75, mean 59 years. Median rest life time was 36 days (11–140). Significant reduction of analgesics was observed 1 week after the procedure, and most patients also reported reduction of pain. No serious side effects were observed.

Conclusions:

CT guided neurolytic celiac plexus blockade is a safe and effective treatment for intractable pain caused by advanced pancreatic cancer. Not all patients experience a significant effect, but the side effects are minor, and the procedure should therefore be offered patients experiencing intractable cancer related pain.
Ein Pionier der Hospiz-Bewegung in Deutschland: P. Reinhold Iblacker SJ (1930–1996)
Authors: Funiok Rüdiger
Published: February 2018

Das Konzept des modernen Hospizes (Cicely Saunders, London) wurde in Deutschland 1971 durch zwei erfolgreiche Fernsehfilme bekannt gemacht. Autor war der Jesuitenpater Reinhold Iblacker, der bis 1984 noch ca. 100 weitere wertorientierte Medienbeiträge produzierte. Als er aus gesundheitlichen Gründen diese breite Medienarbeit beenden musste, begann die zweite Phase seiner Pionierarbeit für Hospize und Palliative Care. In der Öffentlichkeit focht er den wichtigen semantischen Kampf gegen den belasteten Begriff „Sterbeklinik“ à la Dr. Hackethal aus. Angeregt durch die Initiativen in Großbritannien, USA und Kanada, wurde Palliative Care auch unter Ärzten und Pflegekräften bekannt. „Pflegen bis zuletzt“ bedeutete für sie ein Umdenken, zumindest ein Weiterdenken, was nach dem Ende von Therapien noch möglich ist, und damit eine Erweiterung ihrer beruflichen Kompetenz. Am Beispiel des Christophorus Hospiz Vereins in München wird deutlich gemacht, wie P. Iblacker weiter für diese Idee publizistisch tätig war. Schließlich beteiligte er sich auch an der konkreten Vereinsarbeit – unterstützt von zahlreichen Ärztinnen und Ärzten und seinem großen Freundeskreis. Die Verbreitung der Hospizidee in Deutschland bleibt mit seinem Namen und seiner vielgestaltigen Pionierleistung verbunden.
Temperature dependent optical properties of red emitting Na3GaF6:Mn4+as a color converter for warm white LEDs
Authors: Böhnisch David , Jansen Thomas , Pöttgen Rainer , Jüstel Thomas
Published: February 2018

This work presents and disentangles the temperature dependent optical properties of the red-emitting phosphor Na3GaF6:Mn4+. Moreover, crystal field and Racah parameters were investigated. It was proven that the material is suitable for the application in warm white LEDs due to its high quantum yield of about 83%, little thermal quenching of the photoluminescence up to 410 K, high lumen equivalent of about 220 lm/W, and strong absorption at 450 nm. In addition, different DFT approaches were used to investigate its band structure. The calculated data were compared to those obtained experimentally. Red phosphor spectra were calculated to evaluate the suitability of red line-emitting phosphors for the application in warm white emitting pcLEDs. Finally, warm white emitting LEDs comprising Na3GaF6:Mn4+were constructed in order to show the potential of Na3GaF6:Mn4+serving as a red component in phosphor blends for future warm white pcLEDs.
Optical Solitons for the Perturbed Nonlinear Schrödinger Equation with Kerr Law and Non-Kerr Law Nonlinearity
Authors: Gao Hui , Xu Tianzhou , Wang Gangwei
Published: February 2018

This paper analyses the dynamics of soliton propagation through optical fibres for the perturbed nonlinear Schrödinger equation with Kerr law and non-Kerr law nonlinearity. Several integration schemes are used to construct solitons to the model. The two forms of nonlinearity that are studied in detail are power law and dual power law, while Kerr law and parabolic law emerge as special cases to these two laws.
Enhancement of the Fluorescence Quantum Yield of Thiol-Stabilized CdTe Quantum Dots Through Surface Passivation with Sodium Chloride and Bicarbonate
Authors: Dudka Tetiana , Kershaw Stephen V. , Lin Shumin , Schneider Julian , Rogach Andrey L.
Published: February 2018

Colloidal quantum dots (QDs) have potential for several applications, e.g. as novel light sources; as photoluminescent probes; and for solar energy conversion devices, but their sensitivity towards their environmental surroundings, and the presence of surface defects may still degrade their emission properties. Herein, we present a post-synthetic treatment of CdTe QDs stabilized by mixed thiol ligands using chloride and bicarbonate ions to achieve near-complete surface passivation, resulting in a two-fold increase of the photoluminescence quantum yield (PL QY) and significant suppression of non-radiative recombination. Time-resolved PL measurements reveal fluorescence lifetime and PL QY trends did not both track identically; in the most favorable cases a suppression of non-radiative recombination and a slight increase in the radiative recombination rates after the salt treatment took place. The optimized conditions demonstrated here are proven to work for different sizes of CdTe QDs, and also show a dependence on the composition of the mixed ligand systems used.
Differences in Physical Performance According to the Competitive Level in Amateur Handball Players
Authors: Romaratezabala Estibaliz , Nakamura Fabio , Ramirez-Campillo Rodrigo , Castillo Daniel , Rodríguez-Negro Josune , Yanci Javier
Published: February 2018

Estibaliz, R, Fabio, N, Rodrigo, RC, Daniel, C, Josune, RN, and Javier Y. Differences in physical performance according to the competitive level in amateur handball players. J Strength Cond Res 34(7): 2048–2054, 2020—The aim of this study was to compare physical performance in amateur handball players of 2 different competitive levels. Thirty-four senior handball players were divided into 2 groups according to their competitive level (regional category: REG or national category: NAC). Although no significant differences were found between groups in any of the horizontal jump (HJ) or vertical jump (VJ) variables (p > 0.05), NAC players obtained a better performance in the repeated sprint ability (RSA) test (RSABest [the best attempt] and RSATT [the total time in the total of sprints] in 15 m and 30 m), in change of direction ability (CODA) and in the Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1 (YYIR1) test (p < 0.01, effect size = −1.32 to 1.75, large). A significant association was observed between the body mass index (BMI) and the HJ or VJ capacity (r = −0.35 to −0.55, p < 0.01), the RSA15mBest and RSA30mBest (r = 0.41 to 0.59, p < 0.01), and YYIR1 distance (r = −0.54, p ≤ 0.05), and a also between the performance in the HJ or the VJ and the RSA15mBest and RSA30mBest, the CODA and the YYIR1, and between the RSA30mBest and the YYIR1 (r = −0.54, p ≤ 0.05). Specific strength and conditioning programs should aim toward improving RSA, CODA, and YYIR1, as these abilities may be needed at higher levels of competition. The programs also should aim toward improved HJ and VJ abilities, given their association with RSA, CODA, and YYIR1 performance. Moreover, maintaining an adequate BMI may aid players to sustain greater physical performance levels.
Vertical and Horizontal Asymmetries Are Related to Slower Sprinting and Jump Performance in Elite Youth Female Soccer Players
Authors: Bishop Chris , Read Paul , McCubbine Jermaine , Turner Anthony
Published: February 2018

Bishop, C, Read, P, McCubbine, J, and Turner, A. Vertical and horizontal asymmetries are related to slower sprinting and jump performance in elite youth female soccer players. J Strength Cond Res 35(1): 56–63, 2021—Interlimb asymmetries have been shown to be greater during vertical jumping compared with horizontal jumping. Notable interlimb differences have also been established at an early age in male youth soccer players. Furthermore, given the multiplanar nature of soccer, establishing between-limb differences from multiple jump tests is warranted. At present, a paucity of data exists regarding asymmetries in youth female soccer players and their effects on physical performance. The aims of this study were to quantify interlimb asymmetries from unilateral jump tests and examine their effects on speed and jump performance. Nineteen elite youth female soccer players performed a single-leg countermovement jump (SLCMJ), single, triple, and crossover hops for distance, and a 20-m sprint test. Test reliability was good to excellent (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.81–0.99) and variability acceptable (coefficient of variation = 1.74–5.42%). A 1-way analysis of variance highlighted larger asymmetries from the SLCMJ compared with all other jump tests (p < 0.05). Pearson's correlations portrayed significant relationships between vertical asymmetries from the SLCMJ and slower sprint times (r = 0.49–0.59). Significant negative relationships were also found between horizontal asymmetries during the triple hop test and horizontal jump performance (r = −0.47 to −0.58) and vertical asymmetries during the SLCMJ and vertical jump performance (r = −0.47 to −0.53). The results from this study highlight that the SLCMJ seems to be the most appropriate jump test for identifying between-limb differences with values ∼12% showing negative associations with sprint times. Furthermore, larger asymmetries are associated with reduced jump performance and would appear to be direction specific. Practitioners can use this information as normative data to be mindful of when quantifying interlimb asymmetries and assessing their potential impact on physical performance in youth female soccer players.
Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation of the Temporal Lobe Does Not Affect High-Intensity Work Capacity
Authors: Ciccone Anthony B. , Deckert Jake A. , Schlabs Cory R. , Tilden Max J. , Herda Trent J. , Gallagher Philip M. , Weir Joseph P.
Published: February 2018

Ciccone, AB, Deckert, JA, Schlabs, CR, Tilden, MJ, Herda, TJ, Gallagher, PM, and Weir, JP. Transcranial direct current stimulation of the temporal lobe does not affect high-intensity work capacity.J Strength Cond Res33(8): 2074–2086, 2019—Stimulation of the left insular cortex may affect heart rate variability (HRV) and exercise effort perception. These studies investigated the effects transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and electrode orientation on HRV and repeated maximal knee extensions. In study 1, after sham stimulation, anodal left temporal lobe stimulation, or anodal right temporal lobe stimulation, 10 male and 10 female subjects (age = 21.0 ± 1.5 years) completed 50 maximum isokinetic extensions at 180°·s−1. There was a significant effect of stimulation condition on HRV for only 1 (SD2;p= 0.037; η2= 0.159) of 5 HRV metrics. There was no significant effect on isokinetic fatigue percent or isokinetic work (allp≥ 0.278; all η2≤.065). It has been proposed that placing the cathode electrode on the shoulder may differentially affect tDCS. Therefore, in study 2, the effects of electrode orientation on tDCS-induced changes in HRV was assessed in 10 healthy females and 8 healthy males (21.6 ± 2.5 years) who completed cephalic, extracephalic, and sham trials. In the cephalic montage, the anode was placed over the left temporal lobe and the cathode was placed over right prefrontal cortex. In the extracephalic montage, the cathode was placed on the shoulder on the same side of the body as the anode. Neither cephalic nor extracephalic montages affected HRV (allp≥ 0.152; all η2≤.105). These data suggest that anodal tDCS of the insular cortex has little effect on HRV, and does not improve high-intensity exercise performance in the current population. Therefore, anodal tDCS applied over the left temporal lobe is not recommended for high-intensity performance enhancement.
The End of a 60-year Riddle: Identification and Genomic Characterization of an Iridovirus, the Causative Agent of White Fat Cell Disease in Zooplankton
Authors: Toenshoff Elena R , Fields Peter D , Bourgeois Yann X , Ebert Dieter
Published: February 2018

The planktonic freshwater crustacean of the genus Daphnia are a model system for biomedical research and, in particular, invertebrate-parasite interactions. Up until now, no virus has been characterized for this system. Here we report the discovery of an iridovirus as the causative agent of White Fat Cell Disease (WFCD) in Daphnia. WFCD is a highly virulent disease of Daphnia that can easily be cultured under laboratory conditions. Although it has been studied from sites across Eurasia for more than 60 years, its causative agent had not been described, nor had an iridovirus been connected to WFCD before now. Here we find that an iridovirus—the Daphnia iridescent virus 1 (DIV-1)—is the causative agent of WFCD. DIV-1 has a genome sequence of about 288 kbp, with 39% G+C content and encodes 367 predicted open reading frames. DIV-1 clusters together with other invertebrate iridoviruses but has by far the largest genome among all sequenced iridoviruses. Comparative genomics reveal that DIV-1 has apparently recently lost a substantial number of unique genes but has also gained genes by horizontal gene transfer from its crustacean host. DIV-1 represents the first invertebrate iridovirus that encodes proteins to purportedly cap RNA, and it contains unique genes for a DnaJ-like protein, a membrane glycoprotein and protein of the immunoglobulin superfamily, which may mediate host–pathogen interactions and pathogenicity. Our findings end a 60-year search for the causative agent of WFCD and add to our knowledge of iridovirus genomics and invertebrate–virus interactions.
A Genetic Screen Identifies PRP18a, a Putative Second Step Splicing Factor Important for Alternative Splicing and a Normal Phenotype inArabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Kanno Tatsuo , Lin Wen-Dar , Chang Chia-Liang , Matzke Marjori , Matzke Antonius J M
Published: February 2018

Splicing of pre-mRNA involves two consecutive trans-esterification steps that take place in the spliceosome, a large dynamic ribonucleoprotein complex situated in the nucleus. In addition to core spliceosomal proteins, each catalytic step requires step-specific factors. Although the Arabidopsis thaliana genome encodes around 430 predicted splicing factors, functional information about these proteins is limited. In a forward genetic screen based on an alternatively-spliced GFP reporter gene in Arabidopsis thaliana, we identified a mutant impaired in putative step II factor PRP18a, which has not yet been investigated for its role in pre-mRNA splicing in plants. Step II entails cleavage at the 3′ splice site accompanied by ligation of the 5′ and 3′ exons and intron removal. In the prp18 mutant, splicing of a U2-type intron with non-canonical AT-AC splice sites in GFP pre-mRNA is reduced while splicing of a canonical GT-AG intron is enhanced, resulting in decreased levels of translatable GFP mRNA and GFP protein. These findings suggest that wild-type PRP18a may in some cases promote splicing at weak, non-canonical splice sites. Analysis of genome-wide changes in alternative splicing in the prp18a mutant identified numerous cases of intron retention and a preponderance of altered 3′ splice sites, suggesting an influence of PRP18a on 3′ splice site selection. The prp18a mutant featured short roots on synthetic medium and small siliques, illustrating that wild-type PRP18a function is needed for a normal phenotype. Our study expands knowledge of plant splicing factors and provides foundational information and resources for further functional studies of PRP18 proteins in plants.
Seven-Up Is a Novel Regulator of Insulin Signaling
Authors: Musselman Laura Palanker , Fink Jill L , Maier Ezekiel J , Gatto Jared A , Brent Michael R , Baranski Thomas J
Published: February 2018

Musselman et al. address the overarching question: “What’s so bad about a high-calorie diet?” Using computational biology to analyze mRNA expression profiles, the authors built a Drosophila fat body gene regulatory network that predicted...

Insulin resistance is associated with obesity, cardiovascular disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and type 2 diabetes. These complications are exacerbated by a high-calorie diet, which we used to model type 2 diabetes in Drosophila melanogaster. Our studies focused on the fat body, an adipose- and liver-like tissue that stores fat and maintains circulating glucose. A gene regulatory network was constructed to predict potential regulators of insulin signaling in this tissue. Genomic characterization of fat bodies suggested a central role for the transcription factor Seven-up (Svp). Here, we describe a new role for Svp as a positive regulator of insulin signaling. Tissue-specific loss-of-function showed that Svp is required in the fat body to promote glucose clearance, lipid turnover, and insulin signaling. Svp appears to promote insulin signaling, at least in part, by inhibiting ecdysone signaling. Svp also impairs the immune response possibly via inhibition of antimicrobial peptide expression in the fat body. Taken together, these studies show that gene regulatory networks can help identify positive regulators of insulin signaling and metabolic homeostasis using the Drosophila fat body.
Herramientas de aprendizaje para favorecer la educación ambiental. Caso de estudio Fundación Niños de Los Andes sede Manizales, Colombia
Authors: Flórez-Yepes Gloria Yaneth , Rincón-Santamaría Alejandro , Cardona Pablo Santiago , Gallego Felipe Antonio
Published: February 2018

This article is part of the results of a research project whose objective was to formulate a strategy for environmental awareness for children and adolescents of the Fundación Niños de Los Andes (Children of the Andes Foundation) in the city of Manizales, Colombia. The methodological process was a quantitative and descriptive approach, using the survey as a tool for information gathering and the SPSS tool for systematization. A later discussion of the results was performed, and it determined the best way to approach the environmental education in children. The main conclusion was that the best strategy for acceptance of environmental education in children is to develop practical workshops that enable them to know, through real cases, environmental issues and ways of approach to prevent these issues, mitigate them, and control them.
Crecimiento de Ocotea cernua (Lauraceae) en bosques aluviales inundables de la Amazonía peruana
Authors: Baluarte Vásquez Juan Rommel , Álvarez González Juan Gabriel
Published: February 2018

Ocotea cernua (Nees) Mez, “moena negra”, es una especie comercial que se desarrolla en los bosques del llano aluvial inundable de la Amazonía peruana. Este estudio, proporciona información sobre su crecimiento, y que puede utilizarse en el manejo de la especie. Se analizó la abundancia y estructura de O. cernua en nueve parcelas permanentes (100 m x 100 m) y 24 transectos (40 m x 100 m). El análisis de los registros sobre crecimiento en diámetro, mostró que el incremento anual medio y el incremento anual máximo, alcanzan un valor máximo de 9.5 y 17.4 mm/año, ambos en la clase diamétrica de 25 a 30 cm. Tomando como base ambos incrementos, el tiempo necesario para que un árbol alcance diámetros >30 cm DAP, sería de 60 y 34 años, respectivamente. Basado en factores de competencia entre árboles, el modelo de crecimiento ajustado estima que la tasa máxima de crecimiento en diámetro anual es 2.10, 1.28 y 0.50 cm para árboles con baja, media y alta competencia. Esta tasa máxima de crecimiento ocurre cuando los árboles cuentan con DAP que oscilan entre 21.10, 20.28 y 20.50 cm, para baja, media y alta competencia, respectivamente; sin embargo, el tiempo que requiere un árbol para obtener dichos diámetros varía enormemente, con valores de 12.31 cm para baja competencia, 20.35 para media competencia y 54.51 años para alta competencia.
Short bowel syndrome
Authors: Parfenov A I , Sabelnikova E A , Kuzmina T N
Published: February 2018

The paper gives information on the classification, pathogenesis, and clinical manifestations of short bowel syndrome following after intestinal resection. It discusses the treatment and rehabilitation of patients with this condition.
Experience in using Prolia in patients with postmenopausal osteoporosis in clinical practice
Authors: Skripnikova I A , Kosmatova O V , Abirova E S , Novikov V E , Murashko L M
Published: February 2018

Aim. To evaluate the efficiency and safety of long-term Prolia therapy in patients with postmenopausal osteoporosis (OP). Subjects and methods. The open prospective study enrolled 98 women (mean age, 68±9 years; mean menopause duration, 17±4 years) with postmenopausal OP, who were followed up in an outpatient setting at the National Medical Research Center for Preventive Medicine and who had been treated with denosumab 60 mg subcutaneously every 6 months for 12 months or more. The maximum follow-up period was 4 years: 48, 29, 11, and 10 patients were treated for 12, 24, 36, and 48 months, respectively. The patients were allocated into 2 groups: those who received and those who had not previously received antiosteoporotic therapy. Bone mineral density (BMD) was measured using dual-energy X-ray densitometry of the lumbar spine (L—L) and proximal femur (PF). The ten-year probability of major osteoporotic fractures was estimated once in 72 patients not previously receiving antiosteoporotic therapy before the prescription of denosumab. Results. In the patients not previously receiving therapy, the median 10-year probability of major fractures using the FRAX algorithm was 14.9%; that of femoral neck (FN) fractures was 3.7%. During denosumab treatment, the BMD increase in the lumbar spine was 4.2% at 12 months, 7.5% at 24 months, was 8.8% at 36 months; that in FN was 3.1, 3.9, and 5.3%, that in PF was 2.8, 4.1, and 5%; and that in the 1/3 forearm was 0.9, 1.4, and 2.6%, respectively (p < 0.001). In the persons receiving and not previously receiving the therapy, the BMD increase was similar, i.e. there was an additional positive effect when switching to denosumab. The decrease in the serum concentration of C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX-I) was 54% at 6 months after initiation of denosumab therapy (p < 0.001) and 72% at 12 months (p
Malnutrition: from pathogenesis to current methods for diagnosis and treatment
Authors: Kostyukevich O I , Sviridov S V , Rylova A K , Rylova N V , Korsunskaya M I , Kolesnikova E A
Published: February 2018

Progressive weight loss is a frequent companion to somatic pathology. The risk of death is known to increase dramatically among those with a body mass index of less than 19 kg/m. Even mild weight loss in the presence of severe diseases can have a substantial impact on the course of the disease. The paper presents current views on malnutrition, its prevalence in the presence of various somatic diseases, and clinical significance. It describes the basic pathogenetic components of weight loss and the possible ways of correcting nutritional status. Particular emphasis is placed on the methods of nutritional support that is currently regarded as one of the most important components of a comprehensive approach to treating patients with chronic diseases. The authors give recommendations for the assessment of the nutritional status of patients in clinical practice and algorithms for their malnutrition management.
Disfunções urinárias em mulheres praticantes de atividade física em academias – um estudo transversal
Authors: Da Silva Leidiany Bueno , Santos Wyrla Oliveira , Araujo Nazete dos Santos , Rodrigues Cibele Nazaré Camara , Carneiro Nunes Erica Feio
Published: February 2018

INTRODUÇÃO: Segundo a International Continence Society (ICS), a Incontinência Urinaria de Esforço (IUE) é a mais comum causa de perda involuntária de urina que tem como fator de risco, a prática de atividade física e esportiva em mulheres. OBJETIVO: Verificar a prevalência de IUE em mulheres com prática regular de atividade física em academias. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal, realizado em duas academias particulares da cidade de Belém do Pará, em mulheres praticantes de atividade física regular, com idade entre 25 e 55 anos; foram excluídas mulheres com alteração cognitiva, portadoras de diabetes e com problemas neurológicos. Foram aplicados um questionário padrão e o Protection, Amount,, Frequency, Adjustment and Body image (PRAFAB). As variáveis foram analisadas pelos testes Exato de Fisher e Mann-Whitney (p<0,05). CAAE 61681416.4.0000.5173. RESULTADOS: A amostra foi composta por 56 mulheres, das quais 7 (12%) relataram perda recente de urina. As incontinentes eram praticantes de musculação (100%) e a maioria (71%) associava esta prática com exercícios aeróbicos. As ocorrências foram relatadas em média de 5 vezes por semana (85%) e durante os exercícios (57%). Não houve diferença estatística na comparação das variáveis entre continentes e incontinentes (p>0,05). CONCLUSÃO: A prevalência de IU em mulheres praticantes de exercícios aeróbicos e musculação nas academias foi baixa (12%), com severidade de moderada a grave e sem associação com idade, modalidade, tempo de prática, turno e frequência de exercícios.
Diş Hekimliği Fakültesi Son Sınıf Öğrencileri ve Diş Hekimlerinin Maksillofasiyal Travma Muayenesi Konusunda Bilgi Düzeylerinin Değerlendirilmesi
Authors: SARUHAN Nesrin , GÜRBÜZ URVASIZOĞLU Gelengül , ATAOL Mert , TEMİZ Mustafa
Published: February 2018

Amaç: Bu çalışmanın amacı diş hekimliği fakültesi son sınıf
öğrencileri ve mezun diş hekimleri için maksillofasiyal travmalara yaklaşım ile
ilgili bilgi düzeylerini değerlendirmektir. Yöntem: Atatürk Üniversitesi
Diş Hekimliği Fakültesinde son sınıfta okuyan öğrenciler ve Erzurum ilinde
çalışmakta olan diş hekimlerine, maksillofasiyal travma bilgi düzeylerini ve
yaklaşımlarını değerlendirmek amacıyla hazırlanan 20 soruluk bir anket formu
uygulandı. Çalışmada 91 son sınıf öğrencisi ve 51 mezun diş hekimi yer almıştır.   Bulgular: Bilgi düzeyini değerlendiren 13 sorudan 11 tanesine
verilen cevaplarda, doğru cevabın daha çok tercih edildiği görülmüştür. Sadece
2 soruda yanlış cevap seçeneği daha çok tercih edilmiştir. Katılımcılara
yöneltilen ve klinik yaklaşımı değerlendiren 7 adet subjektif değerlendirme
sorularının tamamı için, her iki grup tarafından da negatif sonuçlar elde
edilmiştir.

Sonuç: Hem son sınıf öğrencisi hem de mezun diş hekimlerinin
maksillofasiyal travmalar konusundaki bilgi düzeylerinin kabul edilebilir
olmasına rağmen katılımcıların bu konuda yeterli özgüvene sahip olmadıkları
görülmüştür. Bu konudaki teorik bilgilerin, klinik olarak güçlendirilmesi
gerektiği ve gereken eğitim stratejisinin oluşturulması gerekliliği sonucuna
varılmıştır.
The method of paper(Metabolomic profiling of the femoral muscle from rats at different times after death) v1
Authors: Du Tieshuai , Lin Zebin , Xie Yaling , Ye Xing , Tu Chunyan , Jin Kaidi , Xie Jianhui , Shen Yiwen
Published: February 2018

The method of paper(Metabolomic Profiling of Femoral Muscle from Rats atwith different periods after death)
mHealth for Maternal and Perinatal Health - Evaluation of a smartphone application to reduce Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes in Ethiopia v1
Authors: Lund Stine , Marie Boas Ida , Marie Frøkjær Barrie Anne , Svarre Henriette , Lund Sørensen Bjarke
Published: February 2018

Hypothesis. A safe delivery smartphone application distributed to health workers in Ethiopia will decrease perinatal mortality and the incidence of postpartum haemorrhage A safe delivery smartphone application distributed to health workers in Ethiopia will increase health workers knowledge and skills in intra-partum management of active management of third stage labour 2) treatment of post-partum haemorrhage 3) manual removal of placenta and 4) neonatal resuscitation Intervention A safe delivery smartphone application with animated videos to improve clinical management during delivery will be introduced in the intervention clusters Design Cluster randomized controlled trial with health facilities as the unit of randomization Area Nole Kaba, Haru, Homa, Genji and Gimbie districts Population Pregnant women and their newborns delivered in a randomized health facility. For secondary outcomes health workers at randomized health facilities. Sample size 77 health facilities with minimum 2 health workers per facility and 30 deliveries per health worker Duration Pregnant women will be enrolled at delivery and followed to 7 days postpartum Outcomes Primary outcomes are perinatal mortality and postpartum haemorrhage. Secondary outcomes are health workers knowledge and skills Study time Data collection from August 2013 to August 2014
Computer games and creativity: the positive aspects and negative trends
Authors: Bogacheva N.V. , Voiskounsky A.E.
Published: February 2018

The article is aimed at analysis of current studies of the link between video games experience and creativity. The impact of video game playing on the psychological specificity of gamers has repeatedly become a subject of many studies, though higher-level cognitive abilities, such as creativity, were rarely the subject of interest, remaining unexplored in the context of video games. Contrary to the earlier predictions that the increased amount of «readymade» visual information will reduce the imaginative ability, most of the current works show positive links between some types of creativity (in particular — visual) and playing video games. The latter becomes not only a source of inspiration but also a platform for creative realization. Many authors draw attention to possible negative aspects of creativity, in particular, the possibility of its antisocial applications. In this regard, the importance of studying the aggressiveness and empathy of computer players is increasing but the research data in this area is particularly contradictory.
Comparative analysis of research directions in the area of cyberpsychology in Russia and abroad
Authors: Kuznetsova O.V. , Skrylnikova N.I.
Published: February 2018

The article deals with the aspects of social and psychological adaptation in elderly and senile age and analyses the conditions for successful aging. The authors assume that people in elderly age have significant individual characteristics and, as a consequence, research results are often contradictory. It is shown that the socio-psychological adaptation in elderly patients is determined by individual psychological qualities, by specificity of their identity, by strategies of their adaptation to old age. This may be the strategy of the «closed loop» type, that is maintenance of self as an individual, or an alternative strategy, maintaining self as a personality. It was noted that adaptation to old age was flying differently in women and men, which may be due to gender differences in lifestyle, the strongest identification of some men with occupational roles, and of women with homework and family obligations. It is shown that successful aging contributes to the formation of androgynous type of gender identity, which provides flexibility in respond to different situations.
Optical measurement and analysis of microstructure of wave combustion in Ni-Al
Authors: Dolmatov Alexey V , Pinchuk Mikhail V , Sergeychev Alexey V
Published: February 2018

In this paper study the microstructure of the wave self-propagating high-temperature synthesis (SHS) to find the relationship between the rate of the reaction front, the characteristic size of foci and the combustion temperature. Measure the dynamics of the temperature field SHS process was carried out using of the original optical complex of micropyrometer with a spatial resolution of 5.9 mkm and a speed of recording up to 10,000 frames per second. A method of analysis of thermal data implemented on the basis of ergodic model of the wave regime SHS and MATLAB. In the experiment is varied composition Ni-Al and its initial temperature. The experiment results approximated of the quadratic dependence of the rate of the front reaction on the hearth size, and inverse dependence of the hearth size on combustion temperature and initial temperature of the reaction mixture.