bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How to design compelling Virtual Reality or Augmented Reality experience?
Authors: Richir Simon , Fuchs Philippe , Lourdeaux Domitile , Millet Dominique , Buche Cédric , Querrec Ronan
Published: October 2019

The convergence of technologies currently observed in the field of Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, robotics and consumer electronic reinforces the trend of new applications appearing every day. But when transferring knowledge acquired from research to businesses, research laboratories are often at a loss because of a lack of knowledge of the design and integration processes in creating an industrial scale product. In fact, the innovation approaches that take a good idea from the laboratory to a successful industrial product are often little known to researchers. The objective of this paper is to present the results of the work of several research teams that have finalized a working method for researchers and manufacturers that allow them to design virtual or augmented reality systems and enable their users to enjoy "a compelling Virtual Reality experience". That approach, called "the I2I method", present 11 phases from "Establishing technological and competitive intelligence and industrial property" to "Improvements" through the "Definition of the Behavioral Interface, Virtual Environment and Behavioral Software Assistance". As a result of the experience gained by various research teams, this design approach benefits from contributions from current Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality research. Our objective is to validate and continuously move such multidisciplinary design team methods forward.
EDITORIAL - The International Journal of Virtual Reality 2017, IJVR 17(1)
Authors: Buche Cédric
Published: October 2019

Editorial IJVR 17-1
Mobile Augmented Reality in Museums : Towards Enhancing Visitor's Learning Experience
Authors: Ghouaiel Nehla , Garbaya Samir , Cieutat Jean-Marc , Jessel Jean-Pierre
Published: October 2019

This article presents the design and implementation of a handheld Augmented Reality (AR) system called Mobile Augmented Reality Touring System (M.A.R.T.S). The results of experiments conducted during museum visits using this system are also described. These experiments aim at studying how such a tool can transform the visitor's learning experience by comparing it to two widely used museum systems. First, we present the museum's learning experience and a related model which emerged from the state of the art. This model consists of two types of activity experienced by the observer of a work of art: sensitive and analytical. Then, we detail M.A.R.T.S architecture and implementation. Our empirical study highlights the fact that AR can direct visitors' attention by emphasizing and superimposing. Its magnifying and sensitive effects are well perceived and appreciated by visitors. The obtained results reveal that M.A.R.T.S contributes to a worthwhile learning experience.
Exploring the Influence of Simulated Road Environments on Cyclist Behavior
Authors: Xu Jing , Lin Yingzi , Schmidt David
Published: October 2019

An increasing number of people are realiz- ing the advantages of bicycling, which has caused bicy- clist safety concerns and awareness to rise accordingly. This study aims to investigate the capability of combin- ing Virtual Reality technology and bicycle simulation for bicyclist behavior studies. An immersive interactive bi- cycle simulation was developed to explore how subject performance is influenced by virtual road environments through a well-controlled experiment with Oculus Rift headset. 30 people from 18-25 years old were chosen to be subjects, as they are in the highest injury rate per- centile. Results showed that the existence of bike lanes influences cyclist reactions, causing earlier and more braking to occur. Road hazard simulation and "Distance to Brake to Stop" measurement can provide useful in- sight into individual cyclist reactions to different types of road hazards. This study has provided evidence that given the nature of cycling on roads, virtual reality tech- nology can serve as both a safe and effective method to conduct more in-depth behavior studies.
A Visual Programming Tool to Design Mixed and Virtual Reality Interactions
Authors: Loup Guillaume , George Sébastien , Marfisi Iza , Serna Audrey
Published: October 2019

Mixed and Virtual Reality (MVR) devices are now more accessible. However, developing MVR applications is still complex for the majority of developers, because it requires specific expertise. For the past few years, several packaged solutions offered to assist developers who are non-MVR experts. These solutions rarely offer full freedom to create specific interactions adapted to the context. We therefore propose a new MVR tool named MIREDGE (MIxed and virtual REality Development tool for Game Engine). Its interface allows visual programming of MVR interactions. This solution aims at allowing developers to capitalize, re- use, share and associate interaction algorithms. It also takes into account software and hardware compatibility in order to compose new algorithms. The specific architecture of MIREDGE provides opportunities for MVR and non-MVR developers to collaborate to meet a common need: writing efficient MVR interaction algorithms. MIREDGE Editor was evaluated by 31 MVR and non-MVR developers. Results shows that MIREDGE Editor seems effective and efficient particularly for non-MVR developers.
Virtual reality for older users: a systematic literature review
Authors: Santos Silva Rômulo , Mol Artur Martins , Ishitani Lucila
Published: October 2019

The use of technologies by the elderly is still restricted, especially concerning recent technologies. To better understand the older user experience, while using virtual reality technology, we performed a Systematic Literature Review. The databases selected for research were the digital libraries of ACM, IEEE, Science Direct and Google Scholar. During the literature review, we col- lected information about the characteristics of the participants of the studies selected, the experiences reported about the use of technology, the research method used, the technologies chosen for the tests, the results obtained and future work suggested. The main contributions of this work were to identify the state of art of virtual and augmented reality for older people, the possible applications of these technologies to them, the most used devices and also the considerations reported by previous experiences.
Multi-Projector Calibration Based on Virtual Viewing Space
Authors: Xizuo Liu , Yan Lin , Xiaogang Xu , Liang Ma
Published: October 2019

In large-scale maritime maneuvering simulators, the multi-channel systems are usually used to tile multiple projectors on a cylindrical display to create a large virtual environment, which brings more realistic immersion to the users. In the non-planar multi-projector display system, to finish the work of geometric and photometric corrections, there exist the problems of difficult projector calibration, more manual intervention and poor adaptability. In order to solve these problems, a multi-projector calibration based on virtual viewing space is proposed in this paper. First, a virtual environment of multiple projectors is created, and by using the structured light and re-projection model on a cylindrical wall, the calibration of internal and external parameters of a projector are realized separately. Finally, the geometric correction is completed by the mapping relationship between the target images and the calibrated re-projected images. This method is free of limitation by the angle of view of a single camera and can calibrate any of the projectors in the multi-channel systems. The example results show that the projector’s parameters can be estimated more accurately, and the efficiency and accuracy of geometric correction can be improved. Good results are achieved when applying this method in the maritime maneuvering simulator system.
Teorija odlučivanja Herberta Simona
Authors: Menger Mariza
Published: October 2019

Rad se bavi decizionističkim pravcem u izučavanju organizacije i cilj mu je prikazati teoriju američkog nobelovca Herberta Simona kao njezinoga glavnog predstavnika. U radu se analiziraju neposredno Simonovi tekstovi, radovi drugih autora, njegovih bliskih suradnika, ali i kritičara, te domaća literatura koja se bavi odlučivanjem u organizaciji i problemom odlučivanja općenito. Iako je prepoznat njegov izvanredni doprinos disciplini, u domaćoj literaturi iz područja teorije organizacije nedostaje sustavan pregled Simonova rada. Cilj je ovog rada popuniti tu prazninu. U radu se najprije analiziraju temeljni koncepti Simonove teorije odlučivanja: racionalnost odlučivanja i, posebno, ograničenja racionalnosti, potraga za zadovoljavajućim rješenjem, heuristika, razlikovanje između programiranih i neprogramiranih odluka. Zatim se iznosi Simonovo razumijevanje organizacija argumentirajući kako ono počiva na razlikovanju između dvije vrste odluka: odluke o pristupanju u članstvo i drugih odluka koje se donose unutar organizacije. Konačno, zadnji dio rada bavi se kritikom Simonove teorije odlučivanja i teorije organizacije.
Analiza emocija u iskazima preživjelih iz sustava logora Gospić-Jadovno-Pag u ljeto 1941. godine
Authors: Drvendžija Igor , Drača Vinko
Published: October 2019

U ovom radu autori istražuju emocije preživjelih logoraša iz sustava logora Gospić-Jadovno-Pag u kojem su u ljeto 1941. ubijani ljudi srpskog i židovskog etniciteta te komunisti i ostali politički protivnici ustaškog režima. Pristup proučavanja emocija bazira se na svjedočanstvima koja je objavio povjesničar Đuro Zatezalo. U radu se prvo govori o analizi emocija u historiji s naročitim osvrtom na svjedočanstva preživjelih kao poseban i izuzetno važan izvor u studijama Holokausta i genocida. Autori također problematiziraju intenciju zapisivača, sjećanje i emocije kao aspekte koje povjesničar koji analizira svjedočanstva mora imati na umu. Daje se i opis djelovanja rasnih zakona Nezavisne Države Hrvatske i logora smrti Gospić-Jadovno-Pag, nakon čega se sustavno analiziraju emotivi izneseni u svjedočanstvima. Pritom se fokus istraživanja usmjerava na emocije straha, strepnje, nade i radosti. Također se problematizira odnos sjećanja i emocija te način na koji protok vremena može izmijeniti intenzitet i sadržaj emocije, što može biti vrijedan metodološki prilog proučavateljima povijesti genocida i oralne povijesti uopće.
LIFE WITH THE YAMABIRU (LAND-DWELLING LEECH) AFTER THE FAILURE OF A FENCE IN RURAL JAPAN
Authors: Watanabe Satoshi
Published: October 2019

In recent years, Haemadipsa zeylanica japonica, a land-dwelling leech referred to as a “yamabiru” in Japanese, has proliferated in the countryside of Japan, because wild animals are a vector of the yamabiru. In some areas, the yamabiru suck the blood of people even in houses. This paper explores how residents living in a yamabiru “hot spot,” where the number of yamabiru is large, have coexisted with the creature which, though troublesome, is almost impossible to avoid. Z City in Kanagawa Prefecture attempted to maintain a long fence to prevent wild animals from entering the “human domain,” although this did not work as expected. Instead, the daily contact between people and the yamabiru generated various relationships other than a simple, hostile relationship: kill-or-be-killed. The trouble caused by the yamabiru encourages the interviewees to rethink their society and history, though coexistence with the yamabiru can never do away with the dream of extermination. Coexistence with yamabiru, in this context, means not living separately, but living with trouble in the contact zone, without making clear-cut borders between human and non-human domains. This paper attempts to demonstrate that people can make efforts to create various relationships even with “real,” not metaphorical, parasites. Insights from this research may bring to light new information that will be of value to contemporary society, where numerous borders that divide people and social groups are being drawn.
Microscopic features of small bowel mucosa of patients with Crohn’s disease
Authors: cui yun , Lu Shi-yuan , Xu Jie , Peng Yan-shen , Miao Qi , wang xiao-qing , Chen Xiao-yu , Ran Zhi-hua
Published: October 2019

Background Double-balloon enteroscopy enables performing numerous small bowel biopsies for pathologic analysis. However, most histopathological characteristics of Crohn’s disease are non-specific characteristics. We aimed to explore the small bowel mucosal histopathologic characters of Crohn’s disease and identify some disease-specific changes. Methods We included 253 patients without tumors and grouped them into Crohn’s disease, suspected Crohn’s disease, and non-Crohn’s disease groups. These patients underwent double-balloon endoscopy examination and small bowel biopsy at Renji Hospital, Shanghai. All histopathological sections were reviewed, and >20 histopathological parameters were assessed. Immunohistochemistry was conducted when necessary. Results There were different forms of granulomatous lymphangitis on the small bowel mucosa in Crohn’s disease. They showed as various macrophages or epithelioid cells in the lumina of lymphatics or in the center of the villi with or without evident obstruction. These features were only observed in Crohn’s disease patients. Furthermore, they were correlated with granuloma and lymphangiectasia. Additionally, 15 other features showed significant differences among the three groups, and Crohn’s disease patients showed an average of almost seven histopathological characteristics. Conclusions We described the detailed morphologies of granulomatous lymphangitis on the small bowel mucosa and recommend it as a useful histopathological feature for the diagnosis of Crohn’s disease. In terms of specificity and sensitivity, it was superior to non-caseating epithelioid granuloma.
The predictors and patterns of the early recurrence of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma after pancreatectomy: the influence of pre- and post- operative adjuvant therapy
Authors: Suto Hironobu , Okano Keiichi , Oshima Minoru , Ando Yasuhisa , Takahashi Shigeo , Shibata Toru , Kamada Hideki , Kobara Hideki , Masaki Tsutomu , Suzuki Yasuyuki
Published: October 2019

Background The perioperative factors predicting or influencing early pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma recurrence are unclear. This study attempted to identify the predictive factors for early pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma recurrence post-pancreatectomy and the influence of pre- and post- operative adjuvant therapy.
Methods One hundred and fifteen patients undergoing curative resection for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma between 2000 and 2016 at our institution were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were divided into two groups: those who did (n=34) and did not (n=81) experience a recurrence within 6 months postoperatively.
Results Multivariate analyses demonstrated postoperative CA19-9 de-normalization, no postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy, and serosal invasion were independent risk factors for early recurrence (P<0.001, P=0.001, and P=0.010, respectively). A subgroup analysis showed patients with (n=51) and without (n=64) preoperative chemoradiotherapy had different predictors. Although postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy was not a significant indicator in patients with preoperative chemoradiotherapy, CA19-9 de-normalization and no postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy were significant indicators in patients without preoperative chemotherapy. Preoperative chemotherapy strongly prevented early local recurrence while postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy prevented early distant recurrence.
Conclusions CA19-9 de-normalization was an important predictor of early recurrence of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Although postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy was an important preventive measure against early recurrence, particularly for distant recurrence, preoperative chemoradiotherapy could strongly prevent the early local recurrence of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. These perioperative adjuvant therapies could have a complementary relationship.
Sri Lankan nurses’ Knowledge, Attitude and Practice towards use of physical restraints in psychiatric patients
Authors: Dasanayake Navodya Sewwandi , Nethmini Virangi Indrachapa , Kumari Nishanthi Manjula , Peiris Kumudumali Hansika , Vijayachithra Ganeshmurthi , Gunarathna Susil Menaka , Galgamuwa Lahiru Sandaruwan , Kumara Chandima , Fernando Neil
Published: October 2019

Background

Physical restrain was one of the ancient interventions used to control psychiatric patients. It should be used for a short period, and a registered nurse is responsible to protect rights, treat with dignity and provide high quality care during patient restraints. The objective of the study was to assess knowledge, attitudes and practices on physical restraining among nurses in psychiatric wards and units in Sri Lanka.Methods

A study was conducted in a Mental Health institution in Sri Lanka and a pretested self-administered questionnaire was used for data collection. The associations among the knowledge, attitudes, practices and socio-demographic factors were assessed.Results

Knowledge of nursing officers’ regarding physical restraints was at a satisfactory level and increasing with working experience, getting formal education of physical restraining. However, there is no significant association between the knowledge on physical restraints and working experience, formal education of physical restraints and working places. In addition, most of attitudes and practices regarding physical restraints among nurses were not significantly associated with working experience, formal education of physical restraints and working places.Conclusions

Knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding physical restraints among nurses were in satisfactory level. Continuous in-service education programs are important to improve knowledge, attitudes and practices on physical restraints for psychiatry patients.
Bile acids inhibit Notch-1 expression in the development of Barrett’s esophagus
Authors: Sun Dongfeng , Hu Wensi , Chen Chengyu , Gai Zhibo , Fan Limin , Zhong Chenxi
Published: October 2019

Background: Barrett’s esophagus (BE) is the premalignant condition for the development of esophageal adenocarcinoma, and occurs when the stratified epithelium is replaced by an intestinal-type epithelium with goblet cells. Bile acids (BAs) may play a dominant role in esophageal metaplasia, which is characterized by the expression of intestine-specific nuclear transcription factor caudal type homeobox transcription factor 2 (CDX-2). Notch-1 is frequently downregulated in BE, and protects squamous epithelia from becoming malignant and inducing intestinal metaplasia. However, the molecular mechanisms of this pathway are unclear. Methods: We first investigated Notch-1 and CDX-2 in human BE epithelium. Then Wister rats were used to develope animal models to test the role of BAs in the pathogenesis of BE. Effects of deoxycholic acid (DCA) on Notch-1 and CDX-2, as well as Notch signaling pathway blockage with DATP or with si-Hes-1 in vitro were observed through RT–PCR and western blotting techniques in human EAC cells (OE-19) and esophageal epithelial cells (Het-1a). Results: We found that the Notch -1 gene was inhibited in human and rodent BE specimens and BAs induced Barrett’s-like metaplasia. DCA decreases Notch-1 in a time and concentration dependent manner in both EAC cells (OE-19) and esophageal epithelial cells (Het-1a). Notch signaling inhibition increased CDX-2 expression but also blocked the influence of DCA. Conclusions: These data imply that BAs induce BE by inhibiting Notch-1 in esophageal cells. Notch signal pathway inhibition presents a therapeutic strategy for premalignant conditions of the esophagus.
Building collective power in citizen-led initiatives for health accountability in Guatemala: The role of networks
Authors: Hernandez Alison , Hurtig Anna-Karin , Goicolea Isabel , Sebastian Miguel San , Jerez Fernando , Hernandez-Rodriguez Francisco , Flores Walter
Published: October 2019

Background
Citizen-led accountability initiatives are a critical strategy for redressing the causes of health inequalities and promoting better health system governance. A growing body of evidence points to the need for putting power relations at the forefront of understanding and operationalizing citizen-led accountability, rather than technical tools and best practices. In this study, we apply a network lens to the question of how initiatives build collective power to redress health system failures affecting marginalized communities in three municipalities in Guatemala.
Methods
Network mapping and interpretive discussions were used to examine relational qualities of citizen-led initiatives’ networks and explore the resources they offer for mobilizing action and influencing health accountability. Participants in the municipal-level initiatives responded to a social network analysis questionnaire focused on their ties of communication and collaboration with other initiative participants and their interactions with authorities regarding health system problems. Discussions with participants about the maps generated enriched our view of what the ties represented and their history of collective action and also provided space for planning action to strengthen their networks.
Results
Our findings indicate that network qualities like cohesiveness and centralization reflected the initiative participants’ agency in adapting to their sociopolitical context, and participants’ social positions were a key resource in providing connection to a broad base of support for mobilizing collective action to document health service deficiencies and advocate for solutions. Their legitimacy as “representatives of the people” enabled them to engage with authorities from a bolstered position of power, and their iterative interactions with authorities further contributed to develop their advocacy capabilities and resulted in accountability gains.
Conclusions
Our study provided evidence to counter the tendency to underestimate the assets and capabilities that marginalized citizens have for building power, and affirmed the idea that best-fit, with-the-grain approaches are well-suited for highly unequal settings characterized by weak governance. Efforts to support and understand change processes in citizen-led initiatives should include focus on adaptive network building to enable contextually-embedded approaches that leverage the collective power of the users of health services and grassroots leaders on the frontlines of accountability.
Integrated Use of the GeneXpert Platform for TB, HIV and EVD testing in Liberia
Authors: Desta Kassaye Tekie , Dogba John B. , Garbo Julia Toomey , Kessely Dedeh B. , Eastman Candace B. , Daboi Jerry G.
Published: October 2019

Background: The capacity for molecular testing of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Viral load, Tuberculosis (TB) and epidemic prone disease was very limited in Liberia prior to the Ebola Virus Diseases (EVD) outbreak. The use of point of care and near point of care machines for multiple disease testing of HIV, TB and EVD was adopted as a solution to these challenges. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the integrated use of the GeneXpert for the three diseases testing. Methods: A previously collected and reported GeneXpert testing data was used to evaluate the integrated use of GeneXpert platform for TB, HIV viral load and EVD testing. All the laboratory GeneXpert secondary data available since the machines were installed and started testing were analyzed. Besides; Field observation report on the operation, coordination and impact of the integrated testing was included. Results: The integrated testing of HIV Viral load, Mycobacterium Tuberculosis/Rifampicin (MTB/RIF) and EVD using the GeneXpert platform has played a significant role in Liberia. A total of 706 HIV viral load, 3695 MTB/RIF and 2309 EVD GeneXpert tests were conducted since the start of the integrated testing. Conclusion: The integrated use of the GeneXpert platform for TB, HIV and EVD is very crucial as it helped in enhancing the services and coordinating resources in a sustainable way. Lessons learnt from this integration will help to effectively scale up the integrated testing.
Prognostic value of preoperative inflammatory markers in patients with different molecular subgroups of WHO grade II and III diffuse gliomas
Authors: Qi Zengxin , Cai Jiajun , Meng Xiangda , Cai Shengyong , Tang Chao , Lang Liqin
Published: October 2019

Objective: To determine the prognostic implications of these immune indices in WHO Grade II & III gliomas and different molecular subgroups.Methods : Clinical data from 214 newly diagnosed WHO grade II and III diffuse glioma patients were studied retrospectively. Cut-off values were determined by X-tile software. IDH and TERT promotor mutations were detected by gene sequencing, and 1p19q co-deletion was estimated via fluorescence in situ hybridization.Results: NLR was verified to be an independent prognostic marker for OS in WHO grade II and III diffuse gliomas. NLR level was also associated with OS of IDH mutant subgroup, TERT promotor mutant subgroup, 1p19q intact subgroup and with PFS of 1p19q intact subgroup. LMR level was associated with OS of WHO grade II and III diffuse gliomas and TERT promotor mutant subgroup. dNLR was verified to be an independent prognostic marker for OS in TERT promotor wild-type subgroup, 1p19q intact subgroup, IDH mutant TERT promotor wild-type 1p19q intact subgroup and for PFS of 1p19q intact subgroup. dNLR was associated with OS of WHO grade II and III diffuse gliomas and IDH mutant subgroup. 1p19q co-deletion was correlated with low NLR. Conclusion: Preoperative NLR, LMR and dNLR levels were helpful to forecast prognosis in patients with WHO grade II and III gliomas and different genetic phenotypes.
The impact of contemporary treatments on the perioperative care of children with mucopolysaccharidoses: A case series and review of the literature.
Authors: Stuart Grant , Pehora Carolyne , Wong Gail
Published: October 2019

Background: Patients with mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) present significant perioperative challenges. We aimed to document the perioperative care of children with MPS undergoing anesthesia and to describe the impact of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) or enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) on the anesthetic management of these patients. Methods: We performed a retrospective chart review of patients with MPS anesthetised for surgical or investigative procedures at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto between January 2000 and December 2014. Data on MPS treatment, co-morbidities, anesthetic techniques, airway management, post-operative care and perioperative complications were collected. Results: 66 children with MPS underwent 332 anesthetics for 345 procedures. The overall rate of difficult airway was 42%. Of 29 patients with MPS I (Hurler syndrome), 66% were treated with HSCT and 34% with ERT. In those treated with HSCT, 19% had difficult airways, compared with 67% in patients who received neither treatment. 90% of patients with MPS II (Hunter syndrome) had difficult airways. ERT did not improve airway difficulty in MPS I or II patients. 32% of all anesthetics were conducted without airway instrumentation. Direct laryngoscopy, was used in 26% of all anesthetics, the laryngeal mask airway in 26%, fibreoptic bronchoscope in 7%, and video laryngoscope in 5%.Conclusions: Patients with MPS I who have had HSCT are less likely to have a difficult airway compared with those not treated with HSCT. ERT in MPS I and II patients did not alter the incidence of difficult airway. A third of MPS patients underwent anesthesia for diagnostic imaging or minor interventional radiology procedures without airway instrumentation.
When women deliver at home with no one present: Are health care systems in Uganda driving women away?
Authors: Atukunda Esther Cathyln , Mugyenyi Godfrey R , Obua Celestino , Najjuma Josephine , Aturinda Isaac , Agaba Edgar , Ware Norma C. , Matthews Lynn T.
Published: October 2019

Background Uganda’s maternal mortality remains unacceptably high, with thousands of women and newborns still dying of preventable deaths from pregnancy and childbirth-related complications. Despite the fact that over 95% of women in Uganda attend at least one antenatal care (ANC) visit, over 30% of women still deliver at home with no skilled birth attendant, many choosing to come to hospital after experiencing a complication. We explored barriers to women’s decisions to deliver in a health care facility among postpartum women in rural southwestern Uganda, to ultimately inform interventions aimed at improving skilled facility births.Methods Between December 2018 and March 2019, we conducted in-depth qualitative face-to-face interviews with 30 post-partum women delivering at home or health facility in rural southwestern Uganda. The purposeful sample was intended to represent women with differing experiences of pregnancy, delivery and ANC. Women were recruited from 10 villages within 20km of a referral hospital. Interviews were conducted and digitally recorded in a private setting by a trained native speaker. Translated transcripts were generated and coded. Coded data was iteratively reviewed and sorted to derive descriptive categories using grounded theory methodology.Results Regardless of where they decided to give birth, women wished to deliver in a supportive, respectful, responsive and loving environment. The data revealed six key barriers to women’s decisions to deliver from a health care facility: 1) Fear of unresponsive care, fueling a fear of being neglected or abandoned while at the facility, 2) fear of embarrassment and mistreatment by health care providers, 3)low perception of risk associated with pregnancy and childbirth, 4) preferences for particular birthing positions and their outcome expectations, 5) perceived lack of privacy in public facilities, and 6) perceived poor clinical and interpersonal skills of health providers to adequately explain birthing procedures or support expectant or laboring women and their newborn.Conclusion Anticipation of unsupportive, unresponsive, disrespectful treatment, and a perceived lack of tolerance for simple, non-harmful traditions prevent women from delivering at health facilities. Building better interpersonal relationships between patients and providers within health systems could reinforce trust, confidence, improve patient-provider interaction, and facilitate useful information transfer during ANC and delivery visits.
Endovascular intervention for cerebral watershed infarction due to severe stenosis of the middle cerebral artery is safe and effective: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Xie Huifang , Yan Zhenxing , Liu Siqin , He Xiongjun , Zhang Liang , Li Kaifeng , Huang Yaowei , Zheng Wenxia , Su Yuying , Deng Yiting , Liu Yajie
Published: October 2019

Introduction The aim of this study was to compare the clinical outcomes of standard drug therapy and endovascular intervention for cerebral watershed infarction (WSI) due to severe stenosis of the middle cerebral artery.Methods 86 patients with WSI due to severe stenosis of middle cerebral artery were included 46 endovascular intervention patients and 40 standard drug patients. Clinical data were collected at the time of admission, discharge, and the 90-day return to the hospital for review.Results At the time of admission, there were no significant differences in the baseline data of age, gender, blood pressure, blood glucose, blood lipid, NIHSS, MOCA, or lifestyle characteristics such as smoking and drinking history(P>0.05).At 90 days after discharge, there were statistically significant differences in NHISS score(3.20 ± 1.65and4.35 ± 2.63,P=0.028), mRS score(0.69 ± 0.81and1.20 ± 0.96,P=0.01) and MOCA score(21.24 ± 3.72and19.02 ± 3.48,P=0.006) between the two groups.Conclusion The endovascular intervention for WSI due to severe stenosis of the middle cerebral artery has similar periprocedural complications and better outcomes compared to standard drug therapy.
Prevalence of HIV-1 Drug Resistance, Distribution of Subtypes and Drug resistance-associated mutations among Treatment-experienced Individuals in Chengdu, Southwest China, 2014-2016
Authors: Chen Jiayi , Liu Yang , Liu Sijing , Yuan Dan , Su Ling , Ye Li , Gong Fanghong , Gao Yushuang , Baloch Saira , Pei Xiaofang
Published: October 2019

Background: The National Free Antiretroviral therapy (ART) Program in China has initiated to provide ART to HIV-1 patients, which may cause problems with drug resistance (DR). The number of HIV/AIDS patients in Chengdu ranks first in the national capital city. However, there is little data on the prevalence of HIV-1 DR in this region. Therefore, epidemiological surveillance was conducted on HIV-1 DR among patients receiving ART in Chengdu. Methods: From 2014 to 2016, HIV/AIDS patients (15 years and older) who had received first-line ART for at least six months were enrolled in this study. Demographic, behavioral information and medical history were recorded, and blood samples were collected for viral loads and immune cell count analyses. HIV-1 pol was amplified, sequenced, and analyzed for HIV-1 subtypes and drug resistance-associated mutations (DRMs). Results: A total of 13,782 individuals were enrolled and 653 cases were considered treatment failure after 6 months of ART. 481 (481/653) samples were amplified and sequenced successfully for subtypes and drug resistance analysis. Six subtypes were identified, among which CRF01_AE (54.3%) and CRF07_BC (41.6%) were the dominant subtypes, and CRF55_01B was detected in Chengdu for the first time. The overall prevalence of HIV-1 DR was 1.8%, with 1.2% to nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), 1.7% to non-NRTIs (NNRTIs) and 0.14% to protease inhibitors (PIs). The leading DRMs observed in the study were M184I/V (59.59%) against NRTIs and K103N (37.55%) against NNRTIs. Conclusions: This study focused on the HIV-1 molecular surveillance among treatment-experienced individuals in Chengdu. The overall prevalence of DR was relatively low among treated patients. These findings were believed to be contributed to an understanding of HIV-1 subtypes, DR prevalence and DRMs profiles in Chengdu, and thereby optimizing clinical management, prevention and control of HIV.
Positive selection on secretory and structural components of salivary glands within the ecologically diverse bat family Phyllostomidae
Authors: Vandewege Michael , Sotero-Caio Cibele G. , Phillips Caleb D.
Published: October 2019

The leaf-nosed bats (Phyllostomidae) are outliers among chiropterans with respect to the unusually high diversity of dietary strategies within the family. Salivary glands, owing to their functions and high ultrastructural variability among lineages, are proposed to have played an important role during the phyllostomid radiation. Salivary gland secretory products directly interact with food materials and pathogens which can provide selective interactions. To identify genes underlying salivary gland functional diversification, we sequenced submandibular gland transcriptomes from phyllostomid species representative of divergent dietary strategies. From the assembled transcriptomes, we identified and tested 3,266 single gene orthologs and identified 57 evolving under positive selection. All enriched gene ontology terms were related to defense against other organisms and the cell membrane/extracellular environment. Based on GO annotation, many of the defense-related loci under selection form secretory products. Salivary glands perform a complex array of tasks, and we identified positive selection on additional proteins bound to membranes and in the extracellular environment with multiple functions. Although illuminating exact function is difficult, results suggest that regulatory release of secretory products, not the products themselves, is disproportionately shaped by positive selection on coding sequence. Identified instances of selection on such cellular components may help explain the ultrastructural variability of salivary glands previously documented.
Clinical and radiological follow-up after free vascularised fibula transplantation for bone defects of the upper extremity with MRI and MR-angiography
Authors: Eckstein Lisa , Asmus Ariane , Mutze Sven , Bakir Sinan , Haralambiev Lyubomir , Eisenschenk Andreas , Kim Simon
Published: October 2019

Background Vascular patency of free vascularised fibula grafts can be postoperatively assessed by island flap which is not always possible or angiography which is invasive. Bone healing is examined based on radiographs with scoring systems. We present data on MRI with contrast agent and a comparison of the Giessler bone healing score by X-ray and MRI and clinical scores in patients with operation on the upper extremity. Methods We reviewed the clinical and radiological outcome of 13 patients with a follow-up of at least 1 year after free vascularised fibula graft of the upper extremity. The examination included the DASH, MSTS, SF-36, Rosén-Lundberg-scores and MRI with contrast agent. We determined the Giessler bone healing score by most recent x-ray and MRI and the Weiland score and its modification for the upper extremity. For statistics, we used the Wilcoxon test and Pearson correlation. Results Vascular patency was directly or indirectly detectable all cases in the MRI with contrast agent. 5 patients did not return to work and 5 patients had ongoing pain medication. Median DASH was 21.7, MSTS of the upper extremity 76.7, of the lower extremity 93.3, the Rosén-Lundberg score for median nerve 2.43, for ulnar nerve 2.32. Giessler score for x-ray and MRI showed no significant difference for proximal or distal junction. Conclusions We could prove with MRI that it was indeed a vascularised graft and its vitality at time of follow-up by assessment of vascular patency, and that MRI can be used to determine the Giessler score similarly to X-ray.
Production and physiological quality of Pennisetum glaucum after zinc (Zn) application
Authors: Flores Rilner Alves , Barros Leonardo Rodrigues , Miranda Raiane Ferreira de , Santos Fernanda Rodrigues dos , Santos Phaulo Maciel , Andrade Aline Franciel de , Rodrigues Danilo Nogueira , Lopes Andreia Paiva
Published: October 2019

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the dry biomass production and the physiological quality of millet (Pennisetum glaucum) based on the application of zinc (Zn) on the soil. The study was conducted in a completely randomized design consisting of five Zn doses: 0; 3; 6; 9 and 12 kg ha-1, with four replications. The following biometrics such as physiological quality, biomass production and nutritional efficiency as for the use of Zn by plants were evaluated. The results showed that doses around 9 kg ha-1 are the ones promoting the highest observed rates. However, higher Zn supply in the soil negatively affected the physiological quality of the crop, as for the evaluated variables, except for the photochemical efficiency of photosystem II. However, Pennisetum glaucum is responsive to the production of dry biomass up to the Zn dose of 9 kg ha-1, without reducing the efficiency of the nutrient utilization by the crop.
Effects of glyphosate and foliar fertilizers on the glyphosate resistant (GR) soybean
Authors: Forte César Tiago , Menegat André Dalponte , Galon Leandro , Agazzi Luciane Renata , Franceschetti Milena Barreta , Basso Felipe José Menin , Bagnara Maico André Michelon , Chechi Leonardo , Perin Gismael Francisco
Published: October 2019

Currently the soybean crop is responsible for a great share of the protein consumed by humans and animals, it is also a source of oil and renewable materials for the industry. Due to the importance of soybeans worldwide, especially genetically modified soybeans (resistant to glyphosate - GR), the improvement in yield indexes became the targets of promising research. The objective of this work was to evaluate the responses of the “GR” soybean crop as a function of glyphosate herbicide and foliar fertilizer, under soil without nutrient deficiency. The experiment was conducted in a randomized block design with four replications, consisted of two factors. Factor A was consisted by glyphosate (1080 and 2160 g a.e ha-1) and factor B by foliar fertilizers (Fertilizer A – Mg= 5%, Mn= 0,5%, Mo= 0.5%, L-Glutamic acid= 5% and glycine betaine 3%; Fertilizer B - Zn (5%), Mn (3%), Cu (0,5%), B (0.5%) and S (4%); Fertilizer C - Mo and L-Glutamic acid). The treatments were applied isolated and in mixtures, plus the control treatment, totalizing 21 treatments. The variables evaluated were phytotoxicity at 14 and 21 DAT, a thousand-grain weight and grain yield. The analysis of variance was performed and, when significant, the comparison of groups of treatments using orthogonal contrasts was applied to all variables. Soybean yield was also compared to the means of the treatments by the Scott-Knott test (p≤0.05). Phytotoxicity was detected in the soybean crop at 14 DAT with the application of glyphosate, foliar fertilizers and the association of the two products. However, only the highest dose of glyphosate, with or without foliar fertilizers, generally reduced crop grain yield. In addition, the application of foliar fertilizers isolated and associated with glyphosate, in soils with adequate levels of nutrients, does not increase thousand-grain weight or grain. It is concluded that the glyphosate dose for soybeans should be respected and foliar fertilizers should be carefully studied before recommendation.
Floristic composition of weeds in a dystrophic Red-Yellow Argisol under the cultivation of cowpea, cv. BRS Novaera
Authors: Neto Francisco de Alcântara , Júnior José Oscar Lustosa de Oliveira , Bezerra Antônio Aécio de Carvalho , Júnior Gabriel Barbosa da Silva , Albuquerque José de Anchieta Alves de , Zuffo Alan Mario , Aquino João Pedro Alves de , Borges Abel Ferreira
Published: October 2019

Among the several factors that negatively influence cowpea culture, weeds have been responsible for the reduction of growth, development and productive performance of the crop, making it necessary to establish management strategies based on phytosociological studies of weed species in growing areas. Therefore, the objective of this research was to evaluate the floristic composition of weeds, aiming to identify the main species and their dynamics, and to consider their distribution in time and space as pertaining to the cultivation of a modern variety of cowpea, cv. BRS Novaera, in dystrophic Red-Yellow Argisol, in the Midnorth region of the state of Piauí, Brazil. The phytosociological survey of weeds was carried out in three sessions: the first one was immediately before the area was desiccated with glyphosate (15 days before sowing the cowpea), and the others were at 20 and 40 days after sowing (DAS). Following the quantification of species and number of individuals, the following phytosociological parameters were calculated: frequency and relative frequency; density and relative density; abundance and relative abundance; and importance value index. It was concluded that there were few changes in the floristic composition of the weed community according to the epoch of the phytosociological surveys. The main weed plants at 20 DAS of cowpea (vegetative phase) were Chamaesyce hirta, Digitaria insularis, Alternanthera tenella, Cleome affinis, Mollugo verticillata and Portulaca oleracea. At 40 days (reproductive phase), the weed species with a large establishment and acting as potential competitors with cv. BRS Novaera cowpea were Digitaria insularis, Chamaesyce hirta and Mollugo verticillata.
Organic fertilization for optimizing dryland rice production
Authors: Gusmiatun  , Murtado A.D , Marlina Neni
Published: October 2019

Productivity of local upland rice varieties are usually low, making farmers refrain to cultivate upland rice. This resulted in the low contribution of upland rice in production. However, farmers are still planting upland varieties of rice because of their desirability and adaptation to the environment. Therefore, we always need to develop new varieties that have high production and flavors that suit the tastes of society. The key to increase production of variety is providing sufficient nutrients during the growing period. This study aims to accelerate the availability of nutrients of organic fertilizer for the production of new upland varieties with high productivity. The study carried out in two phases and three different locations. All stages of research was setup in the field using Grid Design Divided (split plot design). In the phase-1, we determined the dose, 5, 10, and 15 tons/ha of organic fertilizer, as well as the adaptability of new varieties (genotype JT-DR-G-416 and parental varieties Jati Luhur and Dayang Rindu). The results of phase-1 showed that best dose was 15 tons/ha. Then we proceeded to the phase-2, which aimed to determine the best management practice to provide organic fertilizers such as: C1= organic fertilizer spread directly on planting plots, C2 = organic fertilizer spread over the terraced planting, then sprayed EM-4, C3 = composted organic fertilizer spread on the plots before planting. The variables measured for the study at phase-1 and phase-2 included plant height (cm), number of productive tillers/hill, the number of grains/panicle, 1000 grain weight (g), percent grain hollow/panicle (%), and grain yield per clump (g). The results showed that the new variety/genotype JT-DR-G-416 can adapt better than both parents at upland field conditions. The production of JT-DR-G-416 was increased by 7.75%, when 15 tonnes/ha of organic fertilizers was applied. Application of composted organic fertilizer could increase production by 33.22%, compared to without compost. Application of organic fertilizers followed by giving a solution of microorganisms (EM-4) could improve upland rice production by 30.56 to 32.06%.
Bioprospecting of endophytic bacteria (Bacillus spp.) from passionfruit (Passiflora edulis Sims f. flavicarpa) for plant growth promotion
Authors: Silva Clayton dos Santos , Santos Jockeliny Mayara Camara dos , Silva João Manoel da , Tenório Felipe Alexandre , Celestino Erica Livea Ferreira Guedes , Cristo Crisea Cristina Nascimento de , Nascimento Matus da Silva , Montaldo Yamina Coentro , Oliveira José Ubaldo Lima de , Santos Tania Marta Carvalho dos
Published: October 2019

Endophytic bacteria has been reported as plant growth promoters in various cultivated and uncultivated plants. Thus, the objective onf this study was to evaluate the potential of 21 endophytic bacterial isolated from leaves of passionfruit plants (Passiflora edulis Sims f. flavicarpa). In vitro antagonism, indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) production, gibberellins, cytokines and phosphate solubilization were also tested. In vitro antagonism was investigated using volatile metabolites detection by means of the overlapping dishes technique and direct confrontation. The production of IAA was evaluated by means of the colorimetric method with the absorbance reading of the optical density at O.D. (550nm). The phosphate solubilization was measured in a qualitative method by reading the solubilization halo diameter and the quantitative evaluation in liquid medium and reading of O.D. (450 nm). All bacterial isolates were able to inhibit the growth of Phytophthora sp. in both methods with values ranging from 50% to >90% inhibition (Skott-Knott, p ≤0 0.05). All the tested endophytic bacteria were also able to produce plant hormones. The phosphate solubilization was more than mean of the liquid medium. Thus, the studied endophytic bacterial isolates are suggested as potential plant growth promoters.