bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Julio Castellanos Cambranes, Café y campesinos en Guatemala, 1853-1897. Guatemala: Editorial Universitaria, Colección Realidad Nuestra, 1985
Authors: Alejos García José
Published: October 2020

Café y campesinos es el primer libro de una investigación en tres volúmenes acerca de los orígenes y la evolución de la economía de plantación moderna en Guatemala. En el futuro, Cate y finqueros en Guatemala, 1897-1944 y Revolución en Guatemala completarán esta investigación histórica de Castellanos Cambranes. El presente volumen es un trabajo de historia agraria guatemalteca que se desarrolla a lo largo de 11 capítulos, dos anexos y un epilogo. En el se encuentra un gran numero de documentos archivísticos de interés para el conocimiento de los orígenes y las condiciones generales del surgimiento de la cafeticultura en Guatemala desde mediados del siglo pasado.
RESEARCH ON THE VIEWS OF MODERN YOUTH ABOUT SOCIAL SUCCESS
Authors:   Yaroslavl state pedagogical university named after K. D. Ushinsky, Gushchina Tat'yana N.
Published: October 2020

This article analyzes representations of modern youth about social success, the factors of social success and the role of socio-pedagogical support in the development of the social success of young people; on the correlation of age and success, success and support; about the impact of social success on the level of human life; about the readiness of youth to accompany other people. The sample size was one hundred and twenty young people between the ages of fourteen and thirty who are studying in General education organizations, professional educational organizations, and educational organizations of higher education in the Yaroslavl region. To study the social perceptions of modern young people, the author's questionnaire was used, and to control the results, individual conversations and the method of focus groups were used. The survey was conducted in writing on an individual basis, indirectly, using the Internet service "Google forms". The link to the survey was posted on the public pages of educational and public organizations in the social network "in contact". Differences are shown in the content of social representations of success as a socio-psychological phenomenon, and in their interpretation by the study participants. It is established that socially successful young people tend to perceive success not only as a result of their own actions, but also as a result of support by family members or teachers, while their peers who consider themselves unsuccessful tend to exaggerate the role of circumstances, including support, in the development of their own social success. Indicators of the presence of socio-pedagogical support in the life of people who are socially successful are higher in percentage than those who are unsuccessful. Most of the study participants note that the most effective development of social success of young people occurs in the conditions of accompanying this process.
PECULIARITIES OF WORK WITH CREATIVELY GIFTED YOUTH IN THE CONTEXT OF STATE POLICY
Authors:   Yaroslavl state pedagogical university named after K. D. Ushinsky, Zaitseva Marina A.
Published: October 2020

This article is an attempt to study the awareness of talented youth about the forms of support for their own initiatives. In 2020, specialists and students of the Yaroslavl state pedagogical university named after K. D. Ushinsky conducted a study that showed significant differences in the awareness of young people about the opportunities for implementing their own initiatives and existing support experience. The work presents the experience of state support for talented youth, analyzed legal sources and organizational forms of work with talented youth, using the example of the Yaroslavl region. The work is based on the research of scientists such as A. V. Batarshev, A. D. Boroday, I. M. Ilyinsky, S. V. Maksimova, N. S. Zlobin, M. S. Kagan and other scientists. The work analyzes the activities of federal authorities to support talented youth, talks about forms of grant support, defines and approaches to the concept of "talented youth." The guidance provided by professionals in support of talented youth focuses on youth motivation and selforganization. Young people, first of all, highlight the need for external support, for example, more free open workshops, opening sites, sharing experience with other areas, taking into account the individual characteristics of each; accessibility, wide dissemination of information in this field. Others consider it important, first of all, internal factors depending, first of all, on the person himself – work on themselves, clearly set goals, believe in yourself, not be afraid to express their ideas, be more active, etc. The study made it possible to highlight problems in the information support of youth initiatives and present the experience of specialists in improving the system of supporting initiatives of talented youth.
Strategi Pelestarian Arsip dalam Menghadapi Bencana di Indonesia
Authors: Junawan Hendra , Deritani Rezki
Published: October 2020

Melestarikan arsip berarti memastikan bahwa arsip dapat diakses selama diperlukan. Anda dapat melestarikan arsip tercetak dengan melakukan penangan yang sesuai prosedur dan penyimpanan di lingkungan yang terlindungi dan terkendali. Sedangkan tingkat kerusakan akan berbeda, umur dari arsip Anda dan informasi yang terkandung akan bergantung  pada tindakan pelestarian yang Anda terapkan. Bagaimana strategi pelestarian arsip dalam menghadapi bencana di Indonesia. Pada penelitian ini merupakan jenis penelitian lapangan yaitu “kajian pustaka” yang mempunyai sifat deskriptif. Pemeliharaan arsip dilakukan untuk menjamin bahwa arsip disimpan di tempat yang baik dan aman dengan fasilitas yang lengkap dan dapat  ditemukan secara cepat. Membuat perencanaan merupakan langkah yang penting untuk diterapkan pada saat terjadi bencana. Insiden yang tiba-tiba atau tidak terduga, alami atau buatan manusia, dapat merusak arsip. Insiden itu bisa merusak fasilitas penyimpanan juga, menghambat upaya penyelamatan dan pemulihan..
Study of efficiency and control of paddy sheath blight and leaf blast by caliber fungicide
Authors: Nalawade Nilesh , Kumbhar Amol , Raskar Ashish , Baravkar Atul
Published: October 2020

A field research was conducted during spring season in 2019 at College of Agriculture, Baramati (Maharashtra) to find out the Efficiency and Control of Paddy Sheath Blight and Leaf Blast by Caliber (Natural Polysaccharide, Potassium, Phosphorus, Bio silicate, Seaweed Extract and Solvent) under field condition and to study the on preventive and curative activity of Caliber. The experiment was laid out in Randomized block design with three replications. The four lot treatments comprised four, viz., T1 (Caliber @ 2ml/lit), T2 Caliber @ 3ml/lit), T3 (Caliber @ 4ml/lit) and T4 (control).Most of the fungicides are developed and registered for management of diseases which develop on aerial plant parts. Caliber is a microbial base fungicide. It is effective against oomycetes group of fungi like Pythium,Pytophthora, and Plasmopara.
Data-Driven Automated Detection of Autism Spectrum Disorder Using Activity Analysis: A Review
Authors: Shahid Omar , Rahman Sejuti , Ahmed Syeda Faiza , Arrafi Musabbir Ahmed , Ahad M.A.R.
Published: October 2020

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neuro-developmental disorder that limits social interactions, cognitive skills, and abilities. Since ASD can last during an affected person's entire life cycle, the diagnosis at the early onset can yield a significant positive impact. The current medical diagnostic systems (e.g., DSM-5/ICD-10) are somewhat subjective; rely purely on the behavioral observation of symptoms, and hence, some individuals often go misdiagnosed or late-diagnosed. Therefore, researchers have focused on developing data-driven automated diagnosis systems with less screening time, low cost, and improved accuracy while significantly reducing professional intervention. Human Activity Analysis (HAA) is considered one of the most promising niches in computer vision research. This paper aims to analyze its potentialities in the automated detection of autism by tracking the exclusive characteristics of autistic individuals such as repetitive behavior, atypical walking style, and unusual visual saliency. This review provides a detailed inspection of HAA-based autism detection literature published in 2011 on-wards depicting core approaches, challenges, probable solutions, available resources, and scopes of future exploration in this arena. According to our study, deep learning outperforms machine learning in ASD detection with a classification accuracy of 76\% to 95\% on different datasets comprise of video, image, or skeleton data that recorded participants performing a large number of actions. However, machine learning provides satisfactory results on datasets with a small number of action classes and has a range of 60\% to 93\% accuracy among numerous studies. We hope this extensive review will provide a comprehensive guideline for researchers in this field.
Causes and Drivers of Bushfires
Authors: Falvey David
Published: October 2020

Historical analysis of Australian bushfire data spanning 170 years addresses whether the strength of recent fire events has been exacerbated by human-induced climate change. The question of “cause” looks at the characteristics of a wider range of natural hazards. Fire characteristics are compared with earthquake hazard characteristics: (1) energy – termed “magnitude”; (2) severity – termed “intensity”; and (3) resultant damage to people and structures – termed “impact”.Published global, Northern and Southern hemisphere temperature data are shown to vary consistently in phase over 170 years, but vary in amplitude with statistical significance. CO2 levels north and south of the Equator have tracked quite consistently. Thus, Southern Hemisphere bushfire magnitude and intensity is compared with the Southern Hemisphere climate record, rather than a global data set.28 major bushfires and associated droughts since 1850 show neither apparent drought extent, nor area burned, nor bushfire intensity, correlates with changes in Southern Hemisphere climate. Average rainfall from 1900 shows a wetter, rather than drier trend. Cyclone energy shows no significant trend with climate. Planet-wide “greening”, through CO2 fertilisation, is an insignificant contributor to bushfire magnitude. Combustion theory shows recorded “global warming” could have had no significant influence on bushfire magnitude or intensity. Any increase in Australian bushfire impact, as judged by lives lost, similarly, shows no correlation with bushfire magnitude, nor indeed, any observed Southern Hemisphere global warming.Thus, bushfire magnitude seems much more likely driven by fuel load and any anomalous bushfire intensity is likely driven by anomalous ground level fuel load. The evidence suggests that any CO2 emissions reduction will have no impact on future bushfire “severity.
Electroreduction of Bi(III) Ions in the Aspect of Expanding the ”Cap – Pair” Effect
Authors: Nosal Wiercińska Agnieszka , Skrzypek Sławomira
Published: October 2020

The paper discusses the electroreduction of Bi(III) ions in the aspect of expanding the ”cap – pair” effect. The ”cap – pair” rule is associated with the acceleration of the electrode’s processes by organic substances. The interpretation of the ”cap – pair” effect mechanism was expanded to include the effect of supporting electrolyte concentration on the acceleration process and the type of electrochemical active as well as used protonated organic substances. It has also been shown that the phenomena occurring at the electrode/solution interface can influence a change in the dynamics of the electrode’s process according to the ”cap – pair” rule.
Flexible Pneumatic Bending Actuator for a Robotic Tongue
Authors: Endo Nobutsuna ,   Tokyo Denki University 5 Senju Asahi-cho, Adachi-ku, Tokyo 120-8551, Japan, Kizaki Yuta , Kamamichi Norihiro
Published: October 2020

There are not many physical models of oral and laryngeal systems for human speech movement in both computer simulators and mechanical simulators. In particular, there is no robot tongue mechanism that completely reproduces the deformation motion of the human tongue. The human tongue is an aggregate of muscles devoid of a skeleton. It only possesses a small hyoid. The purpose of this study is to develop a flexible actuator without a rigid link, aiming at the development of a tongue mechanism for a mechanical speech robot. We propose a flexible pneumatic bending actuator using thin McKibben muscles and a soft body formed by a silicone resin. We have verified its mechanical characteristics and described a control method for displacement and curvature. The elasticity/compliance of the silicone resin forming the soft body of this actuator was quantified by tensile tests. The oscillation parameters were identified, and it is suggested that the dynamic model can be described by a spring-mass-damper system. Assuming an arc-shaped deformation model, a simultaneous control system for the arc length and curvature was constructed and its effectiveness was confirmed.
Disposable Robotic Finger Driven Pneumatically by Flat Tubes and a Hollow Link Mechanism
Authors: Tanaka Junya , Matsuhira Nobuto ,   Corporate Research & Development Center, Toshiba Corporation 1 Komukai Toshiba-cho, Saiwai-ku, Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa 212-8582, Japan,   Shibaura Institute of Technology 3-7-5 Toyosu, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-8548, Japan
Published: October 2020

We propose a robotic finger with an exoskeleton-type structure that bends and extends by the deformation force of flat tubes. Our objective is to realize a disposable robot hand for gripping unsanitary objects. To reduce the cost of disposing of the robotic finger, a commercially available cable carrier chain was used for the exoskeleton component, and the flat tubes used in the pneumatic actuator were prepared by thermal processing of a commercially available tube. The driving joint of the robotic finger consists of a hollow link mechanism and two flat tubes, which are respectively arranged inside the hollow link mechanism and at the joint boundary. The proposed joint structure achieves both smooth drivability and good load-bearing capacity. The developed robotic finger weighs approximately 85 g and generates a fingertip force of approximately 4 N when a pressure of 0.25 MPa is applied. Because the developed robotic finger is pneumatically driven, it conforms to the object shape and is compliant to external force. Verification of the mechanism demonstrated that the developed robotic finger is useful because it was able to grasp six types of assumed objects.
Active Cloth Fabricated by a Flat String Machine and its Application to a Safe Wheelchair System
Authors: Takada Makoto , Wakimoto Shuichi , Oshikawa Takero , Ueda Takeji , Kanda Takefumi ,   Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University 3-1-1 Tsushima-naka, Kita-ku, Okayama 700-8530, Japan,   Energyfront Inc. 394-28 Uchio, Minami-ku, Okayama 701-0212, Japan
Published: October 2020

In this study, a pneumatically contracting active cloth has been developed; its application is proposed for a safe sitting-posture recovery system for wheelchair users to avoid fall-related accidents. The active cloth consists of thin artificial muscles knitted via a flat string machine. The safe wheelchair system is configured with an active cloth and seating pressure sensor. The seating pressure sensor, located on the seating surface of the wheelchair, estimates the inclination of the upper body of the user; when this reaches an angle that is dangerous for falling from the wheelchair, the active cloth contracts to correct the posture of the upper body. In this paper, we clarify the fabrication process and fundamental characteristics of the active cloth and indicate its potential as a mechanical element for welfare apparatuses by demonstrating a safe wheelchair system.
Forces of space
Authors: Stetsenko V. Yu. , Stetsenko A. V.
Published: October 2020

We live in a non-inertial world. In non-inertial systems, the classical laws of mechanics and the postulates of the special theory of relativity do not work. To work the laws of mechanics, you need to take into account the forces of inertia. They should be considered the real forces of space. It has the material and field properties. It is shown that mechanism of action of space on elements (bodies) of system is similar to mechanism of action of magnetic field on free electrons of conductor in this field. Three laws of translation dynamics for a non-inertial system have been proposed. With the help of space forces it is possible to explain reactive motion, weightlessness, tornado action, modifying effect of shaking or vibration of metal melt on microstructure of casting when it is solidified. It is shown that the forces of gravity and space are not equivalent.
Construction of a modern high-performance foundry
Authors: Gatsuro V. M.
Published: October 2020

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Export deliveries of certain types of products of the foundry and metallurgical industry to the countries of the European Union from 2010 to 2019....................................................................................................................
Authors: Nikolaichik Yu. A. , Sobolev V. E.
Published: October 2020

The European Union is one of the main trade partners of Belarus, Russia and Ukraine. This article analyzes the level of export deliveries from these countries and some other countries to the EU over 10 years (2010–2019) of foundry and metallurgical products in accordance with the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System (HS Nomenclature) for group 72 «Iron and steel». Data is taken from official statistical reports of the European Union.

The first part of the article provides information on exports from Belarus, Russia and Ukraine of products by commodity items 7201–7218,7224, 7228 of group 72, with the list of the three largest exporting countries to the EU by these item and total world exports to the EU. There are 29 commodity items in the group 72, and 20 items have been selected where the role of Belarus, Russia and Ukraine is more significant. If you take all the 29 items, the article is very cumbersome.

The second part provides data on exports to the EU from Belarus, Russia and Ukraine and 11 other countries in whole group 72 «Iron and Steel» for 2010–2019 according to HS Nomenclature. A brief analysis of supply trends is made, and some conclusions on exports to the EU of the selected commodity items and group 72 as a whole are presented.
The impact of growth differentiation factor 15 on the risk of cardiovascular diseases: two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Wang Zhuo , Yang Fangkun , Ma Menghuai , Bao Qinyi , Shen Jinlian , Ye Feiming , xie xiaojie
Published: October 2020

Background: Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15), a stress responsive cytokine, belongs to transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) cytokine superfamily. Some evidence support that it’s involved in inflammation, coagulation, oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction, and hemostasis. However, it’s still controversial whether GDF-15 directly contributes to the morbidity and mortality of patients suffered with cardiovascular disease (CVD). Besides prospective cohort study and randomized controlled trial, Mendelian randomization (MR) is a genetic epidemiological method that exploits genetic variants as unbiased proxies for modifiable to determine the causal relationships between exposures and health outcomes. Herein, we introduced a two-sample MR approach to evaluate the causal relationships of circulating GDF-15 levels with major CVDs incidence.Methods: Genetic instruments and summary statistics for two-sample MR analysis were obtained from 5 independent large genome-wide association studies (GWAS) to investigate the causal correlation between circulating GDF-15 levels and 9 CVDs, respectively. Conventional inverse variance weighted (IVW) method was adopted to evaluate the causality of GDF-15 with different outcomes; weighted median and MR egger were used for sensitivity analyses.Results: Among 9 SNPs identified from 5 GWASs in 2.6 million individuals, 5 SNPs (rs1227731, rs3195944, rs17725099, rs888663, rs749451) coming from chromosome 19 and containing the PGPEP1 and GDF-15 genes were employed. Based on the instruments, circulating GDF-15 levels significantly linked to the increased risk of cardioembolic stroke, atrial fibrillation, coronary artery disease and myocardial infarction. However, no significant causal association was observed for circulating GDF-15 levels with the incidence of any ischemic stroke, large-artery atherosclerotic stroke, small vessel stroke, heart failure and nonischemic cardiomyopathy.Conclusions: The MR study provides with genetic evidence for the causal relationship of circulating GDF-15 levels with the increased risk of cardioembolic stroke, atrial fibrillation, coronary artery disease and myocardial infarction, but not any ischemic stroke, large-artery atherosclerotic stroke, small vessel stroke, heart failure and nonischemic cardiomyopathy. It indicates that GDF-15 might be a promising biomarker or potential therapeutic target for some CVDs.
Different Limb Lengths in Gastric Bypass Surgery: Study Protocol for A Swiss Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial (SLIM)
Authors: Kraljević Marko , Schneider Romano , Wölnerhanssen Bettina , Bueter Marco , Delko Tarik , Peterli Ralph
Published: October 2020

Background Obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are reaching epidemic proportions. In morbidly obese patients, bariatric operations lead to sustained weight loss and relief of comorbidities in the majority of patients. Laparoscopic Roux-Y-gastric bypass (RYGB) is one of the most frequently performed operations, but it is still unknown why some patients respond better than others. Therefore, a number of variations of this operation have been introduced. Recent evidence suggests that a longer bypassed biliopancreatic limb (BPL) has the potential to be more effective compared to the standard RYGB with a shorter BPL length. This article describes the design and protocol of a randomized controlled trial comparing the outcome of a RYGB operation with a long versus short BPL.Methods/Design The trial is designed as a multicenter, randomized, patient and observer blinded trial. The relevant ethics committee has approved the trial protocol. To demonstrate that long BPL RYGB is superior compared to short BPL RYGB in terms of weight loss and resolution of T2DM the study is conducted as a superiority trial. Postoperative percent excess body mass index loss (%EBMIL) is the primary endpoint, whereas morbidity, mortality, remission of obesity related comorbidities and quality of life are secondary endpoints. Eight hundred patients, between 18 and 65 years and with a body mass index (BMI) from 35 to 60 kg/m2 who meet the regulatory rules for bariatric surgery in Switzerland will be randomized. The endpoints and baseline measurements will be assessed pre-, intra- and postoperatively.Discussion With its high number of patients and a 5-year follow-up this study will answer questions about effectiveness and safety of long BPL RYGB and provide level I evidence for improvement of the standard RYGB. These findings might therefore potentially influence global bariatric surgery guidelines.Trial registration This trial was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov under the identifier NCT04219787, on January 7th, 2020.
Socioeconomic inequity in inpatient service utilization based on need among internal migrants: Evidence from 2014 national cross-sectional survey in China
Authors: Wang Yi , Jing Zhengyue , Ding Lulu , Tang Xue , Feng Yuejing , Li Jie , Chen Zhuo , Zhou Chengchao
Published: October 2020

Background: Providing equal treatment for those who have the same need for healthcare, regardless of their socioeconomic and cultural background, has become a shared goal among policymakers who strive to improve healthcare. This study aims to identify the socioeconomic status (SES) inequities in inpatient service utilization based on need among migrants by using a nationally representative study in China.
Methods: The data used in this study was derived from the 2014 National Internal Migrant Population Dynamic Monitoring Survey collected by the National Health Commission of China. The sampling frame for this study was taken using the stratified multistage random sampling method. All provincial urban belt and key cities were stratified, and 119 strata were finally determined. We used logistic regression method and Blinder-Oaxaca decomposition and calculated the concentration index to measure inequities of SES in inpatient service utilization based on need. Sample weights provided in the survey were applied in all the analysis and all standard errors in this study were clustered at the strata level.
Results: Of the total internal migrants, 18.75% unmet the inpatient service need. Results showed that inpatient service utilization concentrated among high-SES migrants (Concentration Index: 0.036, p <0.001) and the decomposition results suggested that about 44.16% of the total SES gap in inpatient service utilization could be attributed to the gradient effect. After adjusting for other confounding variables, those had high school degree and university degree were more likely to meet the inpatient services need, and the OR values were 1.48 (95% CI 1.07, 2.03, p =0.017) and 2.04 (95% CI 1.45, 2.88, p =0.001), respectively. The OR values for Quartile 3 and Quartile 4 income groups was 1.28 (95% CI 1.01, 1.62, p =0.044) and 1.37 (95% CI 1.02, 1.83, p =0.035), respectively.
Conclusion: This study observed an inequity in inpatient service utilization where the utilization concentrates among high SES migrants. It is important for policy makers to be aware of them and more intervention should be conducted.
IPSE, a Urogenital Parasite-Derived Immunomodulatory Molecule, Suppresses Bladder Pathogenesis and Anti-Microbial Peptide Gene Expression in Bacterial Urinary Tract Infection
Authors: Mbanefo Evaristus C. , Le Loc , Pennington Luke F. , Hsieh Yi-Ju , Odegaard Justin I. , Lapira Kristina , Jardetzky Theodore S. , Falcone Franco H. , Hsieh Michael
Published: October 2020

Background: Parasitic infections can increase susceptibility to bacterial co-infections. This may be true for urogenital schistosomiasis and bacterial urinary tract co-infections (UTI). We previously reported that this co-infection is facilitated by S. haematobium eggs triggering interleukin-4 (IL-4) production and sought to dissect the underlying mechanisms. The interleukin-4 inducing principle from Schistosoma mansoni eggs (IPSE) is one of the most abundant schistosome egg-secreted proteins and binds to IgE on the surface of basophils and mast cells to trigger IL-4 release. IPSE can also translocate into host nuclei using a nuclear localization sequence (NLS) to modulate host transcription. We hypothesized that IPSE is the factor responsible for the ability of S. haematobium eggs to worsen UTI pathogenesis. Methods: Mice were intravenously administered a single 25 mg dose of recombinant S. haematobium-derived IPSE, an NLS mutant of IPSE or PBS. Following IPSE exposure, mice were serially weighed, and organs analyzed by histology to assess for toxicity. Twenty-four hours after IPSE administration, mice were challenged with the uropathogenic E. coli strain UTI89 by urethral catheterization. Bacterial cfu were measured using urine. Bladders were examined histologically for UTI-triggered pathogenesis and by PCR for antimicrobial peptide expression.Results: Unexpectedly, IPSE administration did not result in significant differences in urine bacterial CFU. However, IPSE administration did lead to a significant reduction in UTI-induced bladder pathogenesis and the expression of anti-microbial peptides in the bladder. Despite the profound effect of IPSE on UTI-triggered bladder pathogenesis and anti-microbial peptide production, mice did not demonstrate systemic ill effects from IPSE exposure.Conclusions: Our data show that IPSE may play a major role in S. haematobium-associated urinary tract co-infection, albeit in an unexpected fashion. These findings also indicate that IPSE either works in concert with other IL-4-inducing factors to increase susceptibility of S. haematobium-infected hosts to bacterial co-infection, or does not contribute to enhancing vulnerability to this co-infection.
Total versus conventional laparoscopic cyst excision and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy in children with choledochal cysts: a case-control study
Authors: LIU FEI , Xu Xiaogang , Lan Menglong , Tao Boyuan , Li Le , Wu Qiang , Chai Chengwei , Zeng Jixiao
Published: October 2020

Background : To compare the efficacy of total and conventional laparoscopic hepaticojejunostomy (TLH and CLH) in children with choledochal cysts (CDCs). Methods: Data from patients undergoing TLH and CLH between August 2017 and December 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. Intraoperative blood loss, time for jejunum-cojejunum anastomosis, time to oral intake, postoperative hospital stay, hospitalization expenses, and postoperative complications were compared. Results: All 55 patients (TLH=30, CLH=25) were successfully treated without conversion to open surgery. In the TLH and CLH groups, the time to oral intake was 3.57±0.19 d and 4.56±0.27 d, respectively ( t =3.07, P <0.01), the postoperative hospital stay was 5.50±0.28 d and 7.00±0.74 d ( t =2.03, P <0.05), and the hospitalization expenses were CNY 40085±2447 and CNY 26084±2776 ( t =3.79, P <0.001). There were no significant differences in intraoperative blood loss (9.57±3.28 ml vs 8.2±1.13 ml, t =0.37, P = 0.72) or time for jejunum-cojejunum anastomosis (80.5±2.46 min vs 75.00±2.04 min, t =1.68, P =0.10). The median follow-up periods of the TLH and CLH groups were 17 and 16 months, respectively. Overall complication rates were comparable between the two groups (10% vs 8%, c ² =0.07, P =0.79). Conclusions: TLH in children with CDCs has the advantages of rapid gastrointestinal functional recovery and a short hospitalization. However, hospitalization is relatively expensive.
New insights into malaria vector bionomics in Lao PDR: a nationwide entomology survey
Authors: Marcombe Sebastien , Maithaviphet Santi , Bobichon Julie , Phommavan Nothasin , Nambanya Simone , Corbel Vincent , Brey Paul T
Published: October 2020

Background . In Laos, the malaria burden remains high despite a significant reduction of cases during the last decade. In the context of the disease elimination by 2030, a nationwide entomological survey was conducted to better understand the distribution, abundance and behavior of major malaria vectors ( Anopheles spp.) in the country.
Methods . Mosquito collections were implemented in ten villages from ten provinces during the rainy and dry seasons of 2014 and 2015 by using human landing catch (HLC) and cow bait collection (CBC) methods. After morphological identification in the field, molecular identification of the sibling species of Anopheles mosquitoes from the Funestus, Leucosphyrus, and Maculatus groups were determined using PCR specific alleles. A screening of Plasmodium falciparum and P. vivax infections in the vectors was carried out by quantitative PCR assays.
Results. A total of 14,146 adult mosquitoes representing 25 different Anopheles species were collected and morphologically identified. Molecular identification revealed the presence of 12 sibling species within the main primary vector groups including An. maculatus s.s., An. rampae , An. sawadwongporni , An. pseudowillmori , An. dravidicus , An. minimus s.s., An. aconitus , An. pampanai , An. harrisoni , An. dirus s.s., An. baimaii , An. nemophilous . Anopheles maculatus and An. minimus were predominant during both the dry and rainy seasons, but showed highly zoophilic preferences (Zoophilic index of 98% and 95%, respectively). Overall, 22% of the total malaria vectors were collected between 10:00 PM and 5:00 AM indoors when people are sleeping. Twenty-seven percent of primary and secondary vectors were collected outdoors before 10:00 PM or after 5:00 AM, times when people are usually awake and outdoors. Only two specimens were positive for P. falciparum , one An. aconitus from Phongsaly and one An. minimus from Vientiane Province
Conclusions. The results indicate that people living in rural areas in Laos are constantly exposed to malaria vectors throughout the year and specifically outdoors. The use of LLINs/IRS remains important but innovative tools and new strategies are needed to address locally, the early and outdoor malaria transmission. Lack of expertise in general entomological methods may further exacerbate the situation.
Microorganisms and clinical outcomes of early- and late-onset ventilator-associated pneumonia at Srinagarind Hospital, a tertiary center in Northeastern Thailand
Authors: Arayasukawat Pavarit , So-ngern Apichart - , Reechaipichitkul Wipa , Chumpangern Worawat , Arunsurat Itthiphat , Ratanawatkul Pailin , Chuennok Wanna
Published: October 2020

Back ground: Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is a common nocosomial infection in intensive care unit (ICU). Local microbiological surveillance of pathogens and resistance patterns for early-onset VAP (EOVAP) and late-onset VAP (LOVAP) will help to choose appropriate empiric antibiotics. Objective: To compare the multi-drug resistant (MDR) pathogens, treatment outcomes, and factors associated with hospital mortality of VAP. Method: A cross-sectional study between 1 January 2015 and 31 December 2017 at Srinagarind hospital, Khon Kaen University was conducted. The demographic data, causative pathogens, hospital length of stay (LOS), ICU LOS, mechanical ventilator (MV) days, and hospital mortality were retrospectively reviewed. Results: One hundred and ninety patients were enrolled; 42 (22%) were EOVAP and 148 (78%) were LOVAP. Acinetobacter baummanii was the most common pathogen in both groups (50 % EOVAP vs 52.7% LOVAP). MDR pathogens were significant greater in LOVAP (81.8 %) than EOVAP (61.9%) (p = 0.007). The EOVAP had a significantly better ICU LOS (median 20.0 (11.0, 30.0) vs. 26.5 (17.0, 43.0) days), hospital LOS (median 26.5 (15.0, 44.0) vs. 35.5 (24.0, 56.0) days) shorter MV days (14.0 (10.0, 29.0) vs. 23.0 (14.0, 35.5) days) and lower hospital mortality (11.9 % VS 27.7%) than LOVAP ( p < 0.05). The factor associated with hospital mortality was having simplified acute physiology score (SAP) ≥ 40 with an adjusted odds ratio (aOR) of 2.22 (95%CI, 1.08-4.54, p = 0.02). Conclusion: LOVAP had significantly higher MDR pathogens, MV days, ICU LOS, hospital LOS and hospital mortality than EOVAP. A broad-spectrum antibiotic to cover MDR pathogens should be considered in LOVAP. The factor associated with hospital mortality of VAP was a SAPII score ≥ 40.
The Effect of An Educational Intervention on Teachers’ Knowledge, Attitude, and Behavior regarding Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Authors: hossennia Maede , Mazaheri Maryam Amidi , Heidari Zahra
Published: October 2020

Background: this study evaluated the effect of an educational intervention for increasing elementary school teachers’ ADHD knowledge, attitudes, and behavior. Method: Teachers from 12 schools who had at least one student with a definitive diagnosis of ADHD participated in the study and were allocated into either an intervention (n=31) or control group (n=27). Teachers’ ADHD knowledge, Attitude, and Behavior were assessed before and after intervention. Six-session participatory intervention were provided only for the intervention group. Results: Two months after the intervention, the intervention group scored significantly higher on all three outcomes (P≤0. 001). Conclusion: The educational intervention significantly improved teachers’, knowledge, attitudes as well as their behaviors and strategies to manage children with ADHD. It is recommended that this program will incorporate into in-service training courses for primary school teachers as a means of facilitating teaching and managing children with ADHD in class. Trial registration: The study was approved by the by the Research Deputy of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences. In addition, The Ethical Committee of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences approved the study proposal. ID code: IR.MUI.RESEARCH.REC.1398.297. The required permission from the Education Department of Isfahan City was attained. Participation in the study was voluntary. Before taking part in the study, selected teachers provided written consent also study goals were described to them.
The Effect of High-fat Diet and Exercise on KISS-1/GPR54 Expression in Testis of Growing Rats
Authors: Feng Junpeng , Xu Rui , Li Yafei , Zhou Qishu , Song Ge , Deng Yimin , Yan Yi
Published: October 2020

Purpose: To find the expression of KISS-1 and G protein-coupled receptor 54 in rats testis from PND 21st to 56th. Method: 128 three-week-old weaned rats underwent high-fat diet and exercise (60%–70% VO2max, 1 h/day, 5 days/week) intervention and were randomly divided into group C, CE, HC, or HE. Sample time points were set on the PND 21st, 35th, 43rd, and 56th. The testicular testosterone and the mRNA content, and protein content of KISS-1 and GPR54 in testis tissue were detected by ELISA, RT-qPCR, and Western blotting. Result: (1) The protein of KISS-1 and GPR54 increased gradually during the growing period. KISS-1 mRNA peaked at 35D and GPR54 peaked at 43D. (2) High-fat diet affected the expression of the KISS-1/GPR54 system in rat testis and reduced the expression level of KISS-1 protein. (3) 60%–70% VO2max exercise decreased the KISS-1/GPR54 expression level. Exercise intervention improved testicular development in rats with a high-fat diet.Conclusion: The expression of KISS-1/GPR54 increased during the growing period. High-fat diet can downregulate the protein and gene expression of KISS-1/GPR54 and change the expression trend. 60%–70% VO2max exercise decreased the expression of KISS-1/GPR54, which may be involved in the effects of exercise on high-fat dietary sex hormone disorders.
Utilization of irrigation, drainage, and electrical conductivity data for efficient use of nitrate in a soilless culture system
Authors: Ahn Tae In , Park Soo Hyun , Yang Jung-Seok , Lee Ju Young
Published: October 2020

Nitrate management in agricultural systems has mainly been established based on nitrate supply and the yield response curve. In the case of intensive fertilization systems such as soilless culture, the nitrate amount usually remains above the curve's optimal point. A surplus nutrient supply under these conditions could result in the excessive emission of chemical fertilizers. However, very few studies have developed a decision-making process for the efficient use of nitrate under the soilless culture system online. This study was conducted to develop an indicator related to the absorption of nitrate that can be applied in online systems utilizing the monitored irrigation and drainage amount data, electrical conductivity (EC), and the nitrate analysis data of irrigation and drainage. In the simulation, a stochastic change was generated for the nutrient absorption rate. The cultivation experiment verified the theoretical prediction, and a higher correlation of tomato yield with the nitrate absorption indicator was confirmed than with the nitrate supply amount. Also, the normalization of indicator and tomato yield showed dynamic time-series responses. The simulation and cultivation experiments showed that the indicator related to nitrate absorption estimated by online EC, irrigation, and drainage monitoring provides useful theoretical and experimental frameworks regarding efficient resource management decisions.
Accelerated fetal growth in early pregnancy and risk of preterm birth: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Elenis Evangelia , Wikström Anna-Karin , Simic Marija
Published: October 2020

Background: Preterm birth (occurring before 37 completed weeks of gestation) affects 15 million infants annually, 7.5% of which die due to related complications. The detection and early diagnosis are therefore paramount in order to prevent the development of prematurity and its consequences. So far, focus has been laid on the association between reduced intrauterine fetal growth during late gestation and prematurity. The aim of the current study was to investigate the association between accelerated fetal growth in early pregnancy and the risk of preterm birth.Methods: This prospective cohort study included 69 617 singleton pregnancies without congenital malformations and with available biometric measurements during the first and second trimester. Estimation of fetal growth was based on measurements of biparietal diameter (BPD) at first and second trimester scan. We investigated the association between accelerated fetal growth and preterm birth prior to 37 weeks of gestation. The outcome was further stratified into very preterm birth (before 32 weeks of gestation) or moderate preterm birth (between 32 and 37 weeks of gestation) and medically induced or spontaneous preterm birth and was further explored.Results: The odds of prematurity were increased among fetuses with accelerated BPD growth (> 90th centile) estimated between first and second ultrasound scan, even after adjustment for possible confounders (aOR 1.36; 95% CI 1.20-1.54). The findings remained significant what regards moderate preterm births but not very preterm births. Regarding medically induced preterm birth, the odds were found to be elevated in the group of fetuses with accelerated growth in early pregnancy (aOR 1.34; 95% CI 1.11-1.63). On the contrary, fetuses with delayed fetal growth exhibited lower odds for both overall and spontaneous preterm birth.Conclusions: Fetuses with accelerated BPD growth in early pregnancy, detected by ultrasound examination during the second trimester, exhibited increased odds of being born preterm. The findings of the current study suggest that fetal growth in early pregnancy should be taken into account when assessing the likelihood for preterm birth.
Assessment of the susceptibility status of Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) populations to pyriproxyfen and malathion in a nation-wide monitoring of insecticide resistance performed in Brazil from 2017 to 2018
Authors: Campos Kauara Brito , Martins Ademir Jesus , Rodovalho Cynara de Melo , Bellinato Diogo Fernandes , Dias Luciana dos Santos , Macoris Maria de Lourdes da Graça , Andrighetti Maria Teresa Macoris , Lima José Bento Pereira , Obara Marcos Takashi
Published: October 2020

Background: Chemical mosquito control using malathion has been applied in Brazil since 1985. To obtain chemical control effectiveness, vector susceptibility insecticide monitoring is required. This study aimed to describe bioassay standardizations and determine the susceptibility profile of Ae. aegypti populations to malathion and pyriproxyfen, used on a national scale in Brazil between 2017 and 2018, and discuss the observed impacts in arbovirus control.Methods: The diagnostic-doses (DD) of pyriproxyfen and malathion were determined as the double of adult emergence inhibition (EI) and lethal doses for 99% of the Rockefeller reference strain, respectively. To monitor natural populations, sampling was performed in 132 Brazilian cities, using egg traps. Colonies were raised in the laboratory for one or two generations (F1 or F2) and submitted to susceptibility tests, where larvae were exposed to the pyriproxyfen DD (0.03 µg/l) and adults, to the malathion DD determined in the present study (20 µg), in addition to the one established by the World Health Organization (WHO) DD (50 µg) in a bottle assay. Dose-response (DR) bioassays with pyriproxyfen were performed on populations that did not achieve 98% EI in the DD assays. Results: Susceptibility alterations to pyriproxyfen were recorded in six (4.5%) Ae. aegypti populations from the states of Bahia and Ceará, with Resistance Ratios (RR95) ranging from 1.51 to 3.58. Concerning malathion, 73 (55.3%) populations distributed throughout the country were resistant when exposed to the local DD 20 µg/bottle. On the other hand, no population was resistant, and only 10 (7.6%) populations in eight states were considered as exhibiting decreased susceptibility (mortality ratios between 90 and 98%) when exposed to the WHO DD (50 µg/bottle). Conclusions: The feasibility of conducting an insecticide resistance monitoring action on a nation-wide scale was confirmed herein, employing standardized and strongly coordinated sampling methods and laboratory bioassays. Brazilian Ae. aegypti populations exhibiting decreased susceptibility to pyriproxyfen were identified. The local DD for malathion was more sensitive than the WHO DD for early decreased susceptibility detection.
Are Clinical Practice Guidelines of Low Back Pain interventions of high quality and updated? A systematic review using the AGREE II instrument
Authors: Castellini Greta , Iannicelli Valerio , Briguglio Matteo , Corbetta Davide , Sconfienza Luca Maria , Banfi Giuseppe , Gianola Silvia
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND: Clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) provide recommendations for practice, but the proliferation of CPGs issued by multiple organisations in recent years has raised concern about their quality. The aim of this study was to systematically appraise CPGs quality for low back pain (LBP) interventions and to explore inter-rater reliability (IRR) between quality appraisers. The time between systematic review search and publication of CPGs was recorded. METHODS: Electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, PEDro, TRIP), guideline organisation databases, websites, and grey literature were searched from January 2016 to January 2020 to identify GPCs on rehabilitative, pharmacological or surgical intervention for LBP management. Four independent reviewers used the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II (AGREE II) tool to evaluate CPGs quality and record the year the CPGs were published and the year the search strategies were conducted. RESULTS: A total of 21 CPGs met the inclusion criteria and were appraised. Seven (33%) were broad in scope and involved surgery, rehabilitation or pharmacological intervention. The score for each AGREE II item was: Editorial Independence (median 67%, interquartile range [IQR] 31 – 84%), Scope and Purpose (median 64%, IQR 22 – 83%), Rigour of Development (median 50%, IQR 21 – 72%), Clarity and Presentation (median 50%, IQR 28 – 79%), Stakeholder Involvement (median 36%, IQR 10 – 74%), and Applicability (median 11%, IQR 0 – 46%). The IRR between the assessors was nearly perfect (interclass correlation 0.90; 95% confidence interval 0.88 – 0.91). The median time span was 2 years (range, 1-4), however, 38% of the CPGs did not report the coverage dates for systematic searches. CONCLUSIONS: We found methodological limitations that affect CPGs quality. In our opinion, a universal database is needed in which guidelines can be registered and recommendations dynamically developed through a living systematic reviews approach to ensure that guidelines are based on updated evidence. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 1 REGISTRATION PROSPERO DETAILS: CRD42019127619.