bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prospects of the development of the solar energy industry on the territory of the former water area of the Aral Sea
Authors: Aliev Ruslan , Anikin Dmitrii
Published: April 2020

The article is devoted to the analysis of the prospects of the development of the solar energy industry in the Aral Sea region. The main purpose of the article is to identify key conditions conducive to the development of solar energy in the Aral Sea region, to assess the expected energy production by power plants located in this territory. This article is based on a set of research methods: analytical, statistical, comparative, which allowed assessing the potential energy production by solar panels. Also, the Methodology for calculating the water balance of water bodies of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment of the Russian Federation was used for the calculations presented in the article. The authors obtained the following results: analysis of climatic conditions and solar radiation indices made it possible to conclude that this region is characterized by a high potential for the development of solar energy, the presence of extensive mineral resources allows to form a high-tech cluster of the energy industry in the region. The development of solar energy in the territory of the former Aral Sea will have a complex positive impact on the economy, the social sphere and the environment of the Aral Sea region. The result of the implementation of projects is the creation of new jobs, attracting investment in the Aral Sea regions. The research results can be used in the development of regional and local investment promotion programs in the field of renewable energy.
Ecological and economic efficiency of household waste disposal
Authors: Shadrin Ian , Kuznetsova Elena
Published: April 2020

The article is devoted to the issue of disposal of solid household waste. At the moment, much attention is paid to the ecology of the earth. One of the most significant sources of pollution of the planet is household waste. Over the past 20 years, there has been an active increase in the volumes of solid household waste that adversely affects the ecology of the earth.

The main task is not only to reduce the amount of waste produced, but also to introduce high-tech methods of waste disposal. In global practice, a large number of different methods are used, which allow utilizing solid household waste in an environmentally friendly and economical manner. Currently, in Russia, 97 % of this waste disposal goes through landfill, which is harmful and dangerous to nature and humans, as well as costly for the state. To eliminate this problem, the authors propose to sort waste by type of raw material. When separating solid household waste with the application to each type of a specific disposal technology, you can get significant environmental and economic benefits. The paper considers the way of utilization of organic municipal waste with processing into biogas with the calculation of the economic effect of processing through the example of large cities of the Russian Federation.
Investigation of the effectiveness of new construction materials in road constructions
Authors: Nikita Samofeev , Gareeva Zemfira , Musin Radmir , Khasanova Elvira , Shaikhmetov Rinat , Fattakhov Muharyam
Published: April 2020

Modern road constructions go through a whole range of different loads of static and dynamic nature; therefore, higher-quality materials and solutions are required for the roads of the corresponding class, ensuring their compliance with various climatic, geological and economic factors.

Currently used road constructions have different basement, they can be of natural or artificial type. Designing a foundation on a concrete base is considered as the most enduring, however, there are a number of aspects that significantly affect their durability. Improving their reliability and quality is an important promising direction in the study of the use of new building materials.

The article shows the possibility of improving the quality of the foundations of road structures through the use of poly-reinforced fiber-reinforced concrete. Compared with metal fiber, polypropylene fiber gives the desired effect of reducing the weight of the structure and the cost. There is a significant increase in the waterproof performance of fiber-reinforced concrete, which is especially important for drainage sections of road construction foundations.

The authors determined that a significant improvement in the performance of fibrous concrete is achieved, when the polydisperse reinforcement of the concrete matrix use polypropylene (0.3 %) and steel (1.7 %) fiber. In this case, the first option has an impact on crack resistance, and the use of steel – on strength. Thus, with this ratio of reinforcement with various fibers, a synergistic effect of improving the static and dynamic indicators of fibrous concrete is achieved.

According to authors, bench studies of reinforcement of fiber-reinforced concrete structures for the foundations of roads show their high economic efficiency and reduce the cost of 1 m3 of the finished structure to 16 %.
AMATÖR FUTBOLCULARIN BATIL İNANÇ DAVRANIŞLARININ İNCELENMESİ
Authors: ÖZTÜRK Hüseyin
Published: April 2020

Bu çalışma amatör futbolcuların batıl inanç davranışlarını incelemek amacı ile hazırlanmıştır. Araştırma örneklemini 2018 yılında Gaziantep ilinde amatör futbol oynayan toplam 389 (45 kadın, 335 erkek) sporcu oluşturmaktadır. Araştırmada elde edilen verilerin SPSS 22.0 paket programından yararlanılarak istatistiksel analizleri yapılmıştır. Verilerin değerlendirilmesinde istatistik yöntem olarak; frekans, yüzde, ortalama, standart sapma, iki bağımsız gruplar için t-testi ve ikiden fazla bağımsız grubun karşılaştırılmasında ANOVA ve LSD çoklu karşılaştırma testleri kullanılmıştır. Araştırma sonucunda; amatör futbolcuların cinsiyet değişkeni ile uğurlu sayılan nesneler, oyun karşılaşma öncesi, oyun sırası, takım davranımları alt boyutları ve toplam batıl inanç puanıyla anlamlı fark olduğu (p<0,05), yaş değişkeni ile giyim/görünüş, uğurlu sayılan nesneler, oyun karşılaşma sırasında, oyun sırasında, takım sırası, takım davranımları, dua etme ve toplam batıl puanıyla ve yıl değişkeni ile uğurlu sayılan nesneler alt boyutunda anlamlı fark olduğu görülmektedir (p<0,05).
Child Safety in the Context of the Russian Federation Constitutional Values
Authors: Rybakova O. S.
Published: April 2020

The paper studies the constitutional and legal nature of the child’s right to safety, which claims to be of constitutional value. Particular attention is given to the study of the doctrinal understanding of constitutional values as the determinants of state-legal phenomena that make up the spiritual and moral basis for the development of society and the state. The author considers child’s safety through the category of personal safety (as a part and the whole), which, in turn, is a criterion of social safety, which implies the protection of the whole spectrum of human values, rights and freedoms, including dignity, legitimate interests, protection of property, etc. Based on the analysis of the norms of the Constitution of the Russian Federation, the author shows that the guarantees of the child’s personality safety are inherent in its text. The author concludes that at the present stage of the Russian statehood development, child safety is a constitutional value built into the overall safety system of an individual, society, and the state, which demonstrates the interdependent nature of the organizational and legal foundations of Russia’s national safety. In author’s opinion, ensuring a child’s safety in the context of constitutional and legal values presupposes the creation of a favorable environment for the life of a child in which it is impossible to infringe on his life and health, the formation of which is ensured by a system of guarantees, i.e. economic, political, social, moral and, legal.
Ergenlerde Şiddet Eğiliminin Yordayıcıları Olarak Sosyal Kaygı ve Duygusal Özerklik
Authors: KILIÇARSLAN Suat , PARMAKSIZ İzzet
Published: April 2020

Bu araştırmada sosyal kaygı ve duygusal özerkliğin ergenlerin şiddet eğilimlerini yordama gücü incelenmiştir. Araştırma, 2018-2019 eğitim-öğretim yılında Orta Anadolu’da bir ilde öğrenimlerine devam eden ve yaşları 13 ve 17 arasında değişmekte olan öğrenciler ile yürütülmüştür. Araştırmaya 317 (%51) kız ve 296 (%49) erkek olmak üzere toplam 613 öğrenci katılmıştır. Araştırmanın verileri Ergenler İçin Sosyal Kaygı Ölçeği, Duygusal Özerklik Ölçeği, Şiddet Eğilimi Ölçeği ve araştırmacılar tarafından oluşturulan demografik bilgi formu kullanılarak toplanmıştır. Araştırmanın bulguları incelendiğinde, sosyal kaygı ölçeği alt boyutu olan ‘olumsuz değerlendirilme korkusu’ ile şiddet eğilimi puanları arasında pozitif yönde anlamlı bir ilişki olduğu görülürken; Duygusal Özerklik Ölçeğinin ‘ebeveyni idealleştirmeme’, ‘ebeveynden bağımsızlık’ ve ‘bireyleşme’ alt boyutları ile şiddet eğilimi puanları arasında negatif yönde anlamlı ilişkiler olduğu görülmüştür. Bununla birlikte; araştırmaya katılan ergenlerin şiddet eğilimi puanlarının cinsiyete ve anne-baba eğitim düzeyine göre farklılaştığı görülmüştür. Sonuç olarak, ergenlerin cinsiyet ve anne-baba eğitimi gibi sosyo-demografik bilgileri, sosyal kaygı ölçeği alt boyutu olan ‘olumsuz değerlendirilme korkusu’ ve duygusal özerklik ölçeği alt boyutları olan ‘ebeveyni idealleştirmeme’, ‘ebeveynden bağımsızlık’ ve ‘bireyleşme’ alt boyutlarının birlikte şiddet eğiliminin anlamlı yordayıcıları olduğu saptanmıştır. Bu sonuçlar bireyin kimlik gelişiminde kritik bir gelişim sürecini ifade eden ergenlik döneminde şiddet eğilimini kontrol etmeleri konusunda, sosyal kaygıları ile baş edebilmeleri ve ailesinden bağımsızlaşma ihtiyacını giderebilmesinde duygusal özerklik sağlayabilmelerinin çok önemli olduğunu göstermektedir.
MARCAS DE USO EM INSTRUMENTOS LÍTICOS DOS JÊ MERIDIONAIS: UM ESTUDO NA BACIA HIDROGRÁFICA DO RIO FORQUETA/RS
Authors: Machado Neli Galarce , Devitte Natalia , Fiegenbaum Jones , Kreutz Marcos Rogério
Published: April 2020

Os sítios arqueológicos RS-T-123 e RS-T-126, associados à presença de estruturas subterrâneas, localizam-se no município de Arvorezinha, Rio Grande do Sul. A coleção lítica dos sítios, RS-T-123 e RS-T-126, é composta respectivamente por 376 e 501 peças. O estudo tem como objetivo compreender os aspectos tipológicos, tecnológicos e funcionais dos conjuntos líticos. Realizou-se um estudo que privilegia a definição e identificação de categorias tecno-tipológicas do material. Como resultado, foram identificados resíduos de debitagem; artefatos brutos e polidos; instrumentos unifaciais e bifaciais e fragmentos térmicos. Os dados foram relacionados e interpretados a partir da bibliografia existente sobre o instrumental lítico de grupos Jê.
Pathomorphological features of conjunctival and scleral regeneration associated with intraoperative application of Cyclosporin A
Authors: Zhigalskaya T. A. , Krivosheina O. I. , Dzyman A. N. , Khlusov I. A.
Published: April 2020

Purpose. In experiment in vivo to study the features of regeneration of the conjunctiva and sclera of rats after surgery with intraoperative application of a 0.05% Ciclosporin A.

Materials and methods. Еxperimental animals (rats) (n = 48) were divided into the main group, including the subgroups a (n = 16) and b (n = 16) and the comparison group (n = 16). Performed a through cut of the conjunctiva and damage to the surface layers of the sclera one of the eyes of all animals. Further on the surgical trauma zone in the main group, the intraoperative application of the cytostatic was performed. In the subgroup a with a duration of 3 minutes, in the subgroup b – 6 minutes. In the comparison group a hemostatic sponge without a cytostatic was used intraoperatively.

Results. In the comparison group postoperative period proceeds with a stereotyped dynamics of cell phase changes in damaged tissues. In the end the development of dense conjunctival-scleral fusion in the area of surgical trauma was noted. Intraoperative application of 0.05% Cyclosporine A leads to a slowing of regeneration, preventing formation of rough conjunctival-scleral scar.

Conclusions. Intraoperative applications of 0.05% Cyclosporin A change the stereotyped dynamics of the inflammatory-reparative regeneration in the surgical intervention zone, inhibiting the migration of cells almost in 3 times and significantly (in 2 times) prolonging the duration of the macrophage phase. This causes a slowdown of reparative regeneration, prevents excessive scarring in the operating area.
Intérêt nutritionnel de l’œuf en alimentation humaine
Authors: NAU F. , NYS Y. , YAMAKAWA Y. , REHAULT-GODBERT S.
Published: April 2020

L’œuf est une source très digestible de protéines et de lipides qui contient par ailleurs une part importante des vitamines et minéraux nécessaires à l’Homme. La composition en acides aminés, équilibrée par rapport aux besoins de l’Homme, fait de l’œuf l’une des meilleures sources protéiques et les lipides de l’œuf fournissent des quantités importantes d’acides gras insaturés et de phospholipides. Les constituants majeurs de l’œuf sont relativement stables ; ils dépendent essentiellement de la proportion de blanc et de jaune, elle-même largement influencée par l’âge de la poule. En revanche, la composition de l’œuf en acides gras, vitamines, minéraux et pigments peut fortement varier. La dépendance de ces éléments vis-à-vis de l’alimentation de la poule offre ainsi des opportunités d’enrichissement de l’œuf en constituants d’intérêt pour la santé humaine. Des études nutritionnelles ont par exemple démontré chez l’Homme l’impact positif de la consommation d’œufs enrichis en acides gras polyinsaturés ; de même, la lutéine et la zéaxanthine de l’œuf sont particulièrement bien absorbés par l’organisme humain et biodisponibles pour la rétine. Le concept d’augmentation du risque cardio-vasculaire lié à la forte teneur de l’œuf en cholestérol est quant à lui clairement contredit par de nombreuses études épidémiologiques. Une limite à la consommation d’œuf réside finalement dans son pouvoir allergène, en particulier chez le jeune enfant.
Genome-wide identification and comparison of differentially expressed profiles of miRNAs and lncRNAs with associated ceRNA networks in the gonads of Chinese soft-shelled turtle, Pelodiscus sinensis
Authors: Ma Xiao , Cen Shuangshuang , Wang Luming , Zhang Chao , Wu Limin , Tian Xue , Wu Qisheng , Li Xuejun , Wang Xiaoqing
Published: April 2020

Background: The gonad is the major factor affecting animal reproduction. The regulatory mechanism of the expression of protein-coding genes involved in reproduction still remains to be elucidated. Increasing evidence has shown that ncRNAs play key regulatory roles in gene expression in many life processes. The roles of microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in reproduction have been investigated in some species. However, the regulatory patterns of miRNA and lncRNA in the sex biased expression of protein coding genes remains to be elucidated. In this study, we performed an integrated analysis of miRNA, messenger RNA (mRNA), and lncRNA expression profiles to explore their regulatory patterns in the female ovary and male testis of Chinese soft-shelled turtle, Pelodiscus sinensis.Results: We identified 10 446 mature miRNAs, 20 414 mRNAs and 28 500 lncRNAs in the ovaries and testes, and 633 miRNAs, 11 319 mRNAs, and 10 495 lncRNAs showed differential expression. A total of 2 814 target genes were identified for miRNAs. The predicted target genes of these differentially expressed (DE) miRNAs and lncRNAs included abundant genes related to reproductive regulation. Furthermore, we found that 189 DEmiRNAs and 5 408 DElncRNAs showed sex-specific expression. Of these, 3 DEmiRNAs and 917 DElncRNAs were testis-specific, and 186 DEmiRNAs and 4 491 DElncRNAs were ovary-specific. We further constructed complete endogenous lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA networks using bioinformatics, including 103 DEmiRNAs, 636 DEmRNAs, and 1 622 DElncRNAs. The target genes for the differentially expressed miRNAs and lncRNAs included abundant genes involved in gonadal development, including Wt1, Creb3l2, Gata4, Wnt2, Nr5a1, Hsd17, Igf2r, H2afz, Lin52, Trim71, Zar1, and Jazf1.Conclusions: In animals, miRNA and lncRNA as master regulators regulate reproductive processes by controlling the expression of mRNAs. Considering their importance, the identified miRNAs, lncRNAs, and their targets in P. sinensis might be useful for studying the molecular processes involved in sexual reproduction and genome editing to produce higher quality aquaculture animals. A thorough understanding of ncRNA-based cellular regulatory networks will aid in the improvement of P. sinensis reproductive traits for aquaculture.
High prevalence of multidrug resistant ESBL- and plasmid mediated AmpC-producing clinical isolates of Escherichia coli at Maputo Central Hospital, Mozambique
Authors: Estaleva Calvina E. L. , Zimba Tomas F. , Sekyere John Osei , Govinden Usha , Chenia Hafizah Y. , Simonsen Gunnar S. , Haldorsen Bjørg , Essack Sabiha Y. , Sundsfjord Arnfinn
Published: April 2020

Background: Epidemiological data of cephalosporin-resistant Enterobacterales in Sub-Saharan Africa is still restricted, and in particular in Mozambique. The aim of this study was to detect and characterize extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) - and plasmid-mediated AmpC (pAmpC)-producing clinical strains of Escherichia coli at Maputo Central Hospital (MCH), a 1,000-bed reference hospital in Maputo, Mozambique.Methods: A total of 230 clinical isolates of E. coli from urine (n=199) and blood cultures (n=31) were collected at MCH during August-November 2015. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed by the disc diffusion method and interpreted according to EUCAST guidelines. Isolates with reduced susceptibility to 3rd generation cephalosporins were examined further; phenotypically for an ESBL-/AmpC-phenotype by combined disc methods and genetically for ESBL- and pAmpC-encoding genes by PCR and partial amplicon sequencing as well as genetic relatedness by ERIC-PCR. Results: A total of 75 isolates with reduced susceptibility to cefotaxime and/or ceftazidime (n=75) from urine (n=58/199; 29%) and blood (n=17/31; 55%) were detected. All 75 isolates were phenotypically ESBL-positive and 25/75 (33%) of those also expressed an AmpC-phenotype. ESBL-PCR and amplicon sequencing revealed a majority of blaCTX-M (n=58/75; 77%) dominated by blaCTX-M-15. All AmpC-phenotype positive isolates (n=25/75; 33 %) scored positive for one or more pAmpC-genes dominated by blaMOX/FOX. Multidrug resistance (resistance ≥ three antibiotic classes) was observed in all the 75 ESBL-positive isolates dominated by resistance to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, ciprofloxacin and gentamicin. ERIC-PCR revealed genetic diversity among strains with minor clusters indicating intra-hospital spread. Conclusion: We have observed a high prevalence of MDR pAmpC- and/or ESBL-producing clinical E. coli isolates with FOX/MOX and CTX-Ms as the major β-lactamase types, respectively. ERIC-PCR analyses revealed genetic diversity and some clusters indicating within-hospital spread. The overall findings strongly support the urgent need for accurate and rapid diagnostic services to guide antibiotic treatment and improved infection control measures.
Phytoremediation effect of Medicago sativa colonized by Piriformospora indica in the phenanthrene and cadmium co-contaminated soil
Authors: Li Liang , Zhu Pengyue , Wang Xiaoyang , Zhang Zhenhua
Published: April 2020

Background: The coexistence of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heavy metals has deleterious effects on environmental quality. Few reports have studied the mechanisms of plant inoculation with Piriformospora indica to remediate PAH-metal co-contaminated soil by analyzing the chemical speciation of the contaminants. This study investigated the influence of the inoculation of Medicago sativa with P . indica to remediate soil co-contaminated with phenanthrene (a kind of PAH) and cadmium (a heavy metal) by analyzing plant growth, physiological parameters and chemical speciation in rhizosphere and nonrhizosphere soils. Results: The presence of P. indica significantly increased plant tolerance, chlorophyll a , chlorophyll b , maximum quantum efficiency of PSII photochemistry and electron transport rate values in phenanthrene- and/or cadmium-contaminated soil. P. indica inoculation in M. sativa roots increased fluorescein diacetate activities in soils contaminated with phenanthrene, cadmium or both, especially in the nonrhizosphere. The presence of phenanthrene prevented the inoculated plant from accumulating cadmium to some extent, whereas the presence of cadmium did not prevent the degradation of phenanthrene in either the rhizosphere or the nonrhizosphere after P. indica colonization. Although the low bioavailability of cadmium in the rhizosphere restricted its transportation into the stem, P. indica colonization in plants effectively increased cadmium accumulation in roots in soil co-contaminated with cadmium and phenanthrene. Conclusions: In conclusion, this work provides a theoretical basis for the use of P. indica combined with M. sativa for the remediation of PAH-metal co-contaminated soil.
“It Is This Very Knowledge That Makes Us Doctors”: An Applied Thematic Analysis of How Medical Students Perceive the Relevance of Biomedical Science Knowledge to Clinical Medicine
Authors: Dickinson Bonny Lynn , Gibson Kristine , VanDerKolk Kristi , Greene Jeffrey , Rosu Claudia A , Navedo Deborah D , Porter-Stransky Kirsten A , Graves Lisa E
Published: April 2020

Background Intensive study of the biomedical sciences remains a core component of undergraduate medical education with medical students often completing up to two years of biomedical science training prior to entering clerkships. While it is generally accepted that biomedical science knowledge is essential for clinical practice because it forms the basis of clinical reasoning and decision-making, whether medical students perceive an expanded role for their biomedical science knowledge remains to be examined. Methods We conducted a qualitative research study to explore how medical students in the first clerkship year perceived the relevance of biomedical science knowledge to clinical medicine during this pivotal time as they begin their transition from students to physicians. To identify previously unidentified perspectives and insights, we asked students to write brief essays in response to the prompt: How is biomedical science knowledge relevant to clinical medicine? An applied thematic analysis of students’ essays revealed ten codes from which four themes emerged. Results Analysis of students’ essays revealed novel perspectives previously unidentified by survey studies and focus groups. Specifically, students perceived their biomedical science knowledge as contributory to the development of adaptive expertise and professional identity formation, both viewed as essential developmental milestones for medical students. Conclusions The results of this study have important implications for ongoing curricular reform efforts to improve the structure, content, delivery, and assessment of the undergraduate medical curriculum. Identifying the explicit and tacit elements of the formal, informal, and hidden curriculum that enable biomedical science knowledge to contribute to the development of adaptive expertise and professional identity formation will enable the purposeful design
Lead Poisoning; a Neglected Potential Diagnosis in Abdominal Pain
Authors: Shabani Mahtab , Hadeiy Seyed Kaveh , Parhizgar Parinaz , Zamani Nasim , Mehrad Hamid , Hassanian-Moghaddam Hossein , Phillips Scott
Published: April 2020

Background: Abdominal pain may be a presenting symptom of lead poisoning, and poisoning and is often difficult to diagnose. This study We aimed to determine the prevalence of abdominal pain in patients seen in the Laghman Hakim Hospital ED and GI clinic who were lead-intoxicated, with or without opiate use disorder. Methods: Between July 2017 and January 2018, patients seen in the ED and GI clinic of Loghman Hakim Hospital with unexplained abdominal pain or abdominal pain resistant to treatment were enrolled. Informed consent was obtained from potential enrollees. For standardization, a pre-designed data collection tool was developed for uniform data acquisition. Opiate use was determined historically. For this study, lead poisoning was defined as a blood lead level (BLL) greater than or equal to 30 μg/dL (1.45 micromoles/L) with concomitant GI symptoms. Results: Of 125 patients admitted, 28 (22.4%) had BLLs higher than 30 μg/dL. None of the patients had signs and symptoms of opioid withdrawal syndrome during evaluation. Elevated BLLs were significantly correlated with oral opium use/abuse, history of addiction for over the preceding 12 years. The daily opium use was more than 2.75 grams. There was a statistical correlation between lead toxicity and abdominal pain consistency and intensity, constipation, and paresthesias. Anemia, leukocytosis, and abnormal liver enzyme tests were laboratory findings associated with lead toxicity. Four patients died, one of whom was diagnosed with lead toxicity. Conclusion: Lead toxicity should be considered in the potential differential diagnosis of severe and resistant abdominal pain in patients referring to general EDs or GI clinics if a positive history of opium abuse exists.
The effect and potential risks of using multilevel cement-augmented pedicle screw fixation in osteoporotic spine with lumbar degenerative disease
Authors: Tang Yong-chao , Guo Hui-zhi , Guo Dan-qing , Luo Pei-jie , Li Yong-xian , Mo Guo-ye , Ma Yan-huai , Peng Jian-cheng , Liang De , Zhang Shun-cong
Published: April 2020

Background: The effect and potential risks of CAPSI on osteoporotic lumbar degenerative disease (LDD) have not been investigated in the cases of multilevel fixation. This study was to investigate potential complications of using multilevel cement-augmented pedicle screws fixation (three or four levels) and its effectiveness of this method on treating LDD with low bone quality. Methods: A total of 93 patients with multilevel LDD were divided into the CAPSI group (46 subjects) and the CPS group (47 subjects), including 75 cases for three levels, 18 cases for four levels, and the average follow-up was 33.72±18.78 months (range: 24-108). Relevant data were recorded, including age, gender, body mass index (BMI), bone mineral density (BMD), diagnosis, fusion methods, bone graft, fusion level, lumbosacral fixation, different patterns of S1 pedicle screw placement, operation time, blood loss, hospital stay, perioperative complications, CL, pulmonary cement embolism (PCE), screw loosening, and nonunion patients. Furthermore, we also measured the VAS and ODI at pre-operation, post-operation, and follow-up time points. Results: In the CAPSI group, a total of 336 augmented screws was placed bilaterally, and the average injection dose of bone cement was 1.85±0.65 ml (range: 1-4). The CL was observed in 44 patients (95.65%) and 116 screws (34.52%). And in the CPS group, seventeen patients (36.17%) and thirty-three screws (8.46%) suffered loosening in cranial or caudal vertebra (seven cranial cases and twenty-six of caudal), four cases experienced nonunion, and thus the fusion rate was 91.49% in total. The operation time and hospital stay of CAPSI group were longer than the CPS group, but CAPSI group has a lower screw loosening percentage ( P ＜0. 05). And in terms of blood loss, perioperative complications, fusion rate, VAS and ODI scores at the follow-up times, there were no significant differences between two groups. Conclusions: Patients with osteoporotic LDD underwent multilevel CPS fixation have a higher rate of screw loosening in cranial and caudal vertebra. The application of cemented pedicle screws for multilevel LDD can achieve better stability and less screw loosening, but it also accompanied by longer operating time, higher incidence of CL, PCE and wound infections.
Active Play in ASP –A matched-pair cluster-randomized trial investigating the effectiveness of an intervention in After-school programs for supporting children’s physical activity
Authors: Riiser Kirsti , Richardsen Kåre Rønn , Haugen Anders Lund Hage , Lund Siv , Løndal Knut
Published: April 2020

Background : Interventions directed at after school programs (ASPs) have the potential to support physical activity (PA) in young children. Research has indicated that interventions that emphasize competence building among the ASP staff can lead to increased PA among the children. The present study evaluates the effectiveness of the Active Play in ASP intervention—a program for ASP staff aimed at supporting physical activity among first graders in ASP. Methods: We used a matched-pair cluster randomized design and included 456 first graders from 14 schools in Norway. From these, 7 ASPs received the intervention (N = 229), while 7 acted as controls (N = 227). Measurements were taken at baseline, immediately post intervention (7 month follow-up) and after a year (19 month follow-up). The primary outcome was moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA), which was estimated with predefined cut points of counts per minute (CPM) and expressed as minutes/hour. Secondary outcomes were vigorous and light intensity physical activity (VPA and LPA) and sedentary behavior. The analyses of intervention effects were based on between-group differences in outcome changes between the 3 measurement points and were conducted using a mixed-effects model for repeated measures using categorical time. In exploratory analyses, we investigated gender, baseline body mass index, and baseline CPM as potential effect modifiers. Results: No significant intervention effects was observed on MVPA (0.55 min/hour [99% CI -0.55:1.64]) or on the secondary outcomes, min/hour of LPA, VPA or sedentary behavior. Exploratory analyses indicated that among the 50% least physically active children at baseline, children in intervention ASPs reduced sedentary time from baseline to 19 months follow up by 1.67 min/hour (95% CI -3.12:-0.21) compared to the controls. Conclusions: Although the intervention did not significantly increase the mean MVPA among the children in the intervention ASPs compared to controls, it did seem to have a small effect by reducing sedentary behavior time among the least active children. An even stronger emphasis on how to identify less active children and support their activity may be needed in order to increase their PA and further reduce sedentary behavior time.
Genome-wide genetic structure and selection signatures for color in 10 traditional Chinese yellow-feathered chicken breeds
Authors: Huang Xunhe , Otecko Newton O. , Peng Minsheng , Weng Zhuoxian , Li Weina , Chen Jiebo , Zhong Ming , Zhong Fusheng , Jin Sihua , Geng Zhaoyu , Luo Wei , He Danlin , Ma Cheng , Han Jianlin , Ommeh Sheila C. , Zhang Yaping , Zhang Xiquan , Du Bingwang
Published: April 2020

Background: Yellow-feathered chickens (YFCs) have a long history in China. They are well-known for the nutritional and commercial importance attributable to their yellow color phenotype. Currently, there is a huge paucity in knowledge of the genetic determinants responsible for phenotypic and biochemical properties of these iconic chickens. This study aimed to uncover the genetic structure and the molecular underpinnings of the YFCs trademark coloration. Results: The whole-genomes of 100 YFCs from 10 major traditional breeds and 10 Huaibei partridge chickens from China were re-sequenced. Comparative population genomics based on autosomal single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) revealed three geographically based clusters among the YFCs. Compared to other Chinese indigenous chicken genomes incorporated from previous studies, a closer genetic proximity within YFC breeds than between YFC breeds and other chicken populations is evident. Through genome-wide scans for selective sweeps, we identified RALY heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein (RALY), leucine rich repeat containing G protein-coupled receptor 4 ( LGR4 ), solute carrier family 23 member 2 ( SLC23A2 ), and solute carrier family 2 member 14 ( SLC2A14 ), besides the classical beta-carotene dioxygenase 2 ( BCDO2 ), as major candidates pigment determining genes in the YFCs. Conclusion: We provide the first comprehensive genomic data of the YFCs. Our analyses show phylogeographical patterns among the YFCs and potential candidate genes giving rise to the yellow color trait of the YFCs. This study lays the foundation for further research on the genome-phenotype cross-talks that define important poultry traits and for formulating genetic breeding and conservation strategies for the YFCs.
The Burden of Laboratory-confirmed Influenza Infection in Lebanon Between 2008 and 2016: A single tertiary care center experience
Authors: Assaf-Casals Aia , Saleh Zeina , Khafaja Sarah , Fayad Danielle , Ezzeddine Hady , Saleh Mohammad , Chamseddine Sarah , Sayegh Rouba , Sharara Sima , Chmaisse Ahmad , Kanj Souha , Kanafani Zeina , Hanna-Wakim Rima , Araj George , Mahfouz Rami , Saito Reiko , Suzuki Hiroshi , Zaraket Hassan , Dbaibo Ghassan
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUND: Influenza is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Following the 2009 pandemic, there was widened interest in studying influenza burden in all regions. However, since data from the World Health Organization (WHO) Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region remain limited, we aimed to contribute to the understanding of influenza burden in Lebanon. METHODS: A retrospective chart review extending over a period of 8 seasons from Jan 1st, 2008 till June 30 th , 2016 at a tertiary care center in Beirut was performed. All cases confirmed to have influenza based on rapid antigen detection or/and polymerase chain reaction on a respiratory sample were included for analysis. Data on epidemiology, clinical presentation, complications, antiviral use and mortality were collected for analysis. RESULTS: A total of 1829 cases of laboratory-confirmed influenza were identified. Average annual positivity rate was 14% (positive tests over total requested). Both influenza A and B co-circulated in each season with predominance of influenza A. Influenza virus started circulating in December and peaked in January and February. The age group of 19-50 years accounted for the largest proportion of cases (22.5%) followed by the age group of 5-19 years (18%). Pneumonia was the most common complication reported in 33% of cases. Mortality reached 3.8%. The two extremes of age (<2 years and ≥ 65years) were associated with a more severe course of disease, hospitalization, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, complications, and mortality rate. Of all the identified cases, 26% were hospitalized. Moderate-to-severe disease was more likely in influenza B cases but no difference in mortality was reported between the two types. Antivirals were prescribed in 68.8% and antibiotics in 41% of cases. There seemed to be an increasing trend in the number of diagnosed and hospitalized cases over the years of the study. CONCLUSION: Patients with laboratory-confirmed influenza at our center had a high rate of hospitalization and mortality. A population based prospective surveillance study is needed to better estimate the burden of Influenza in Lebanon that would help formulate a policy on influenza control.
Prognostic Value of Sarcopenia in Patients Treated by Radiochemotherapy for Locally Advanced Oesophageal Cancer
Authors: Mallet Romain , Modzelewski Romain , Lequesne Justine , New Sorina Dana Mihailescu , Decazes Pierre , Auvray Hugues , Benyoucef Ahmed , Fiore Frederic Di , Vera Pierre , Dubray Bernard , THUREAU SEBASTIEN
Published: April 2020

Background: Sarcopenia is defined by a loss of skeletal muscle mass with or without loss of fat mass. Sarcopenia has been associated to reduced tolerance to treatment and worse prognosis in cancer patients, including patients undergoing surgery for limited oesophageal cancer. Concomitant chemo-radiotherapy is the standard treatment for locally-advanced tumour, not accessible to surgical resection. Using automated delineation of the skeletal muscle, we have investigated the prognostic value of sarcopenia in locally advanced oesophageal cancer (LAOC) patients treated by curative-intent chemo-radiotherapy.Methods: The clinical, nutritional, anthropometric, and functional-imaging (18FDG-PET/CT) data were collected in 97 patients treated between 2006 and 2012 in our institution. The skeletal muscle area was automatically delineated on cross-sectional CT images acquired at the 3rd. lumbar vertebra level and divided by the patient’s squared height (SML3/h²) to obtain the Skeletal Muscle Index (SMI). The primary endpoint was overall survival probability.Results: Seventy-six deaths were reported. The median survival time was 27 [95% Confidence Interval 23 – 40] months for the whole population. Univariate analyses (Cox Proportional Hazard Model) showed decreased survival probabilities in patients with reduced SMI, WHO >0, Body Mass Index ≤21, and Nutritional Risk Index ≤97.5. Multivariate analyses showed that sarcopenia was the only significant prognostic factor (HR 2.32 [1.24-4.34], p=0.008). Using Receiver Operating Characteristics curves, the Area Under the Curve (AUC) was 0.73 in males (p=0.0002], the optimal threshold being 51.5 cm²/m². In women, the AUC was 0.65 (p=0.19).Conclusion: Sarcopenia is a powerful independent prognostic factor, associated with a rise of the overall mortality in patients treated exclusively by radiochemotherapy for a locally advanced oesophageal cancer. L3 CT images are easily gathered from 18FDG-PET/CT acquisitions
Sex differences in the trajectories of and factors related to extracurricular exercise: A cohort study spanning 13 years
Authors: Wu Wen-chi , Chang Ling-Yin , Luh Dih-Ling , Wu Chi-Chen , Stanaway Fiona , Yen Lee-Lan , Chang Hsing-Yi
Published: April 2020

Background Extracurricular exercise (ECE) refers to regular exercise/sports participation in addition to the normal physical exercise education in school among a school-aged population. Rather than general physical activity, ECE is typically deliberately initiated and presents an efficient target for interventions. However, relatively few studies have investigated sex differences in the development of ECE from childhood to emerging adulthood. This study aimed to examine the latent trajectories of ECE from childhood to emerging adulthood across sexes and to identify the associated sex-specific individual (i.e., body mass index, body dissatisfaction, stress, and screen behavior) and parental factors (i.e., parental exercise and parental screen behavior). Methods This study used data from part of the Child and Adolescent Behavior in Long-term Evolution (CABLE) project, which comprised 2,072 fourth graders (aged 9 years) in Northern Taiwan followed from 2001 to 2013. Repeated-measures latent class analysis was used to identify the trajectories of ECE for males and females, respectively. Multinomial logistic regression was further used to identify sex-specific factors related to ECE after controlling for the parental education level, family monthly income, and parental marital status. Results Four trajectories of ECE were identified for males and females. For males, these trajectories were Rarely-to-Never, Often-to-Rarely, Always-to-Never, and Always. For females, these trajectories were Rarely-to-Never, Rarely, Always-to-Rarely, and Always. We observed that the developmental patterns of ECE varied by sex such that there was an earlier decline in the trajectories of ECE in females than in males and that, compared with males, fewer females maintained exercise habits in young adulthood. Furthermore, we found several sex-specific factors related to ECE, namely, stress, BMI, and parental exercise. Body dissatisfaction and individual screen behavior were associated with trajectories of ECE for both sexes. Conclusions We found distinct trajectories of ECE from childhood to emerging adulthood for both sexes. The trajectories of ECE for males and females, however, differ in terms of patterns and associated factors. Our findings suggest that efforts to increase ECE should be initiated early and may be made more effective by considering sex differences.
Antibiotic-impregnated bone graft decreases time to CRP normalization in pyogenic discitis with vertebral osteomyelitis
Authors: Chang Hsiao-Kang , Lu Meng-Ling , Wegner Adam , Wu Re-Wen , Chen Sung-Hsiung , Hsu Chieh-Cheng , Chen Hou-Tsung , Yin Tsung-Cheng
Published: April 2020

Introduction Surgical treatment of pyogenic discitis with vertebral osteomyelitis (PDVO) is indicated for neurologic deficit, spinal instability, unknown pathogen, poorly controlled infection, or intractable pain. Although the posterior-only approach has been proved a safe, effective procedure that minimizes the risks and complications of anterior or staged surgery, parenteral antibiotic treatment for 4-6 weeks postoperatively is still necessary. We hypothesized that antibiotic-impregnated bone graft used in an all posterior approach could result in infection control and shorten the postoperative course of pyogenic discitis and vertebral osteomyelitis. Patients and Methods 21 consecutive patients with pyogenic discitis and vertebral osteomyelitis of the lumbar or thoracic spine were treated with transforaminal interbody debridement and fusion (TIDF) with antibiotic-impregnated bone graft (AIBG) between March 2014 and January 2017. Minimum follow up was 2 years. Outcomes included visual analog scale (VAS) back pain, ASIA scale for neurological status, kyphotic angle correction, fusion status, and functional outcome using Kirkaldy-Willis criteria, and c-reactive protein (CRP) levels. CRP levels from pre-op, immediately post-op, and 1, 2, 4 & 6 wks post operatively and the duration of treatment with postoperative IV antibiotics in our patients was compared to our previous case series in which TIDF was performed without AIBG. Results Surgical treatment for PDVO resulted in clinical improvement and adequate infection control. There was no difference in pre-op CRP levels between the two groups. Despite shorter post-op IV antibiotic duration (Mean 21.0 d vs 39.8 d), the AIBG group had a stable decline in CRP levels and continued to decrease at 1, 2, 4 & 6 wks, with significantly lower CRP levels at 6 weeks compared to bone graft without antibiotics. VAS scores improved from a mean of 7.2 to 2.3 one month postoperatively. Patients who had increased kyphotic angles had an average angle correction of 7.9° at last follow-up. Eighty-one percent of patients (17/21) had good to excellent functional outcomes. Conclusion TIDF combined with AIBG can achieve local infection control with faster reduction in CRP, leading to shorter antibiotic duration for pyogenic discitis and vertebral osteomyelitis
Glioma patients in outpatient care - Optimization of psychosocial care in neuro-oncological patients (GLIOPT): Protocol for a cluster randomized controlled trial.
Authors: Renovanz Mirjam , Hippler Melina , Voss Martin , Wehinger Jens , Keßler Almuth F. , Gempt Jens , Nadji-Ohl Minou , Lucas Carolin Weiß , Rapp Marion , Misch Martin , Coburger Jan , Mehlitz Marcus , Meixensberger Jürgen , Keric Naureen , Tabatabai Ghazaleh , Blettner Maria , Schranz Melanie , Singer Susanne
Published: April 2020

Background: Patients with high-grade gliomas (HGG) often suffer from high distress and require psychosocial support. However, due to neurological and neurocognitive deficits, adequate assessment of distress and support needs remains a challenging unmet clinical need. The objective of the present study is to investigate whether a systematic implementation of signaling questions into the routine outpatient consultation will be helpful to bridge this gap.Methods and design:This is a multicenter cluster randomized study with two arms. Randomization is done on a cluster level with 13 hospitals providing regular neuro-oncological outpatient services conducted by neurologists and/or neurosurgeons. The intervention will include an assessment of psychosocial distress of patients in doctor-patient-conversation compared to assessment of psychosocial distress via questionnaire (control, standard of care). In total, 616 HGG patients will be enrolled. The outcome will be the number of HGG patients with increased psychosocial distress who receive professional support from psychosocial services. Secondary endpoints are inter alia number of patients reporting psychosocial distress and unmet needs detected correctly by the respective method; quality of life; psychological well-being and burden of the patients before and after doctor-patient consultation as well as the length of the doctor-patient-consultation. Discussion: Patients with HGG are confronted with an oncological diagnosis and at the same time with high symptom burden. This often leads to distress, which is not always adequately recognized and treated. So far, only a limited number of adequate instruments are available to assess HGG patient's distress. Yet, an adequate care and support network might facilitate the course of the disease and tumor therapies for patients. Our hypothesis is that an assessment conducted directly by attending doctors and in which the doctors talk to patients with HGG will be more effective than an assessment via a questionnaire, leading to better identifying patients in need for support. This may lead to an improvement of health care in these patients. Further, this method might be implemented also in other brain tumor patients (e.g. patients with brain metastases).Trial registration: Register: German Clinical Trials Register, registration number: DRKS00018079Registration date: 3rd September 2019, URL: http://www.drks.de/DRKS00018079
Seasonal ecophysiological responses and behavior of phillyrea latifoliaspecie to climate change in Tunisia
Authors: Nefzi Khaoula , Mokhtar Baraket , Herzi Maroua , Nasr Zouhair
Published: April 2020

Background

As part of global climate change, variation in precipitation in arid ecosystems is leading to plant adaptation in water-use strategies; significant interspecific differences in ecophysiological response will change the plant behavior. The mainaim of this study was to investigate the ecophysiological responses of Phillyrea latifolia species to seasonal drought stress. Measurements were conducted between March and December 2018. The parameters studied were the Leaf Water Potential (ψ leaf ), Net photosynthesis (Pn), stomatal conductance (gs) and leaf transpiration (Tr), maximum efficiency of PSII photochemistry (Fv/ Fm), and Hydraulic conductivity.

Main results

The results showed that all measured parameters varied significantly with the season(P <.0001). The results of ψ leaf showed the highest average in summer (−2.99±0.08 MPa). Likewise, the highest values of the maximal photochemical efficiency of PSII (Fv/Fm) were observed in summer (0.83±0.06). However, the highest values of Pn (3.62±0.41 µmol m -2 s -1 )and Tr (0.3±0.028 µmol m -2 s -1 ) were noted in autumn. The Initial Hydraulic Conductivity ( K in ) value was in spring (1.34 -04 ±110 -5 mmol s -1 m -2 MPa -1 ) and autumn (1.1810 -04 ±2.3010 -6 mmol s -1 m -2 MPa -1 ) and the Maximal Hydraulic Conductivity ( K max ) was the highest during the spring season (3.4510 -04 ±2.7010 -11 mmol s -1 m -2 MPa -1 ). The results of the Stomatal Conductance (gs)were showed that the lowest values were recorded in summer (0.19±0.04 MPa). The percentage of loss conductivity (PLC) reached 66%. During the spring season, the soil had a decreasing moisture profile as it moved to the depths and varied from 15.23±5.48% at 20cm to 6.26±2.46% at 80 cm.

Conclusions

The best physiological performances of Phillyrea latifolia reported in spring and autumn may be attributed to favorable environmental conditions. The answers depend not only on the specie but also on the climates in which they grow.