bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Semantic transformations of maritime historicisms in modern English
Authors: Fedotova A. E.
Published: May 2020

The article is dedicated to the study of English maritime historicisms in the modern English language. The author conducts research of English maritime historicisms aiming to prove that, firstly, they are actively used in modern English, secondly they changed their meanings and thirdly, their functions are not limited to the nominative one. Moreover, the author singles out numerous transformations that affect the meaning of maritime historicisms. The methods used by the author include: descriptive, comparative, systematizing methods and method of contextual analysis. The choice of maritime vocabulary as the material for analysis accounts for by two factors: 1) maritime affairs have always been closely associated with human activities of the British, hence, the English maritime vocabulary includes a large number of historicisms that were used to denote objects and events not existing now; 2) a considerable amount of written records where historicisms are used are still available, and on their basis maritime dictionaries which include historical terms have been compiled. The factual materials comprise numerous marine dictionaries, news columns, literary works, articles and encyclopedias. Conclusions reached by the author are as follows: English maritime historicisms form part of active vocabulary in the English language; four ways how they can change their meaning have been singled out and; apart from nominative function they perform expressive and evaluative functions as well. Theoretical and practical significance of the article consists not only in contributing to the knowledge about English maritime historicisms but also in tracing the association between Maritime History and its reflection in the English language. Moreover, the article can provide the basis for future research in discourse studies (e.g. studying the functional characteristics of historicisms in professional and non-professional communication) and terminological studies, translation of historicisms etc.
Sociocultural approach as methodological foundation to the content of professional training of future translators (interpreters)
Authors: Korneeva N. A.
Published: May 2020

In the article the author views the problem of the content of professional training of future translators (interpreters) based on a sociocultural approach, defines the directions of sociocultural approach: familiarization of future translators (interpreters) with material and spiritual values; with the cultural interaction of the individual, society and nature; with the style and the way of life. The principles of sociocultural approach that contribute to social competence: the principle of dialogue of cultures, which is a method of simultaneous learning of a foreign language and culture of different peoples in the correct relationship with their own language and culture; the principle of multiculturalism, which consists in preserving and increasing the diversity of cultural norms, values, rules of behavior, foundations and types of interaction in educational systems; the principle of conformity to culture, based on the fact that language education must include not only scientific knowledge but also cultural and social experience, and cultural areas of the target language; the principle of interdisciplinary integration is a mastering of foreign language in direct unity with the events, history and culture of the country of the target language, in conjunction with the unit of cultural and humanitarian disciplines are singled out and systematized; the author proves that the study of languages and translation based on a sociocultural approach contributes to the formation of students 'worldview, as well as their understanding of history of human development, their native country, awareness of themselves as a representative of national values, communicative culture. The article highlights the translators (interpreters) responsibility for professional activities.
The effectiveness of counseling based on acceptance and commitment therapy on body image and self-esteem in polycystic ovary syndrome: An RCT
Authors: Moradi Fatemeh , Ghadiri-Anari Akram , Dehghani Ali , Reza Vaziri Seyed , Enjezab Behnaz
Published: May 2020

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine and metabolic disorders known with irregular menstruation, hirsutism, alopecia, obesity, infertility, and acne. These symptoms cause a negative effect on the satisfaction of body image, self-esteem, and quality of life in such patients. Recent studies emphasize the need to consider the psychological problems in these women and also the need for appropriate interventions.
Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of group counseling based on acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) on body image and self-esteem in patients with PCOS.
Materials and Methods: In this randomized controlled trial, 52 women with PCOS were randomly allocated to intervention and control groups (n = 26/each) using the table of random numbers. Group counseling based on the ACT was held in eight sessions of 90 min once a week for the intervention group. The demographic questionnaire, Littleton development of the body image concern inventory and Rosenberg self-esteem scale were completed in both groups before, immediately after, and one month after the intervention.
Results: The mean scores of body image concern (p = 0.001) and self-esteem (p ≤ 0.001) in the intervention group after the intervention and follow-up were significantly different from the control group.
Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, use of cognitive-behavioral therapies in health care centers is recommended as a complementary method.
Key words: Acceptance and commitment therapy, Body image, Self-esteem, Polycystic ovary syndrome, Cognitive behavior therapies.
The effect of hydro-alcoholic extract of Ceratonia Silique L. on spermatogenesis index in rats treated with cyclophosphamide: An experimental study
Authors: Sadeghzadeh Firouzeh , Sadeghzadeh Azizeh , Changizi-Ashtiyani Saeed , Bakhshi Sepideh , Jalali Mashayekhi Farideh , Mashayekhi Mehry , Poorcheraghi Hossein , Zarei Ali , Jafari Mostafa
Published: May 2020

Background: Ceratonia silique (Ceratonia) is a medicinal herb with antioxidant properties that reduces oxidative stress.
Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the antioxidant effects of Ceratonia extract on improving the toxicity induced by cyclophosphamide (CP) on spermatogenesis.
Materials and Methods: 54 male Wistar rats (4 months old) weighing 200-250 gr were randomly divided into 6 groups (n = 9/each): “group 1 (control) underwent the normal diet and water; group 2 (sham) received 2 ml/day normal saline; group 3 (positive control) received 300 mg/kg/day Ceratonia extract; group 4 (Ceratonia + CP) received Ceratonia extract (300 mg/kg/day) + 5 mg/kg/day CP (Endoxan, baxter oncology gmbh, Germany) after 4 hr; group 5 (CP) received 5 mg/kg/day CP + normal saline 4 hr after it; and group 6 (CP + Ceratonia) received Ceratonia extract (300 mg/kg/day) 4 hr after 5 mg/kg/day CP.” 24 hr after the last gavage, heart blood sampling was performed to measure the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), ferric reducing antioxidant power, testosterone, luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone. The left caudal epididymis was cut in the Ham’s F10 and the released spermatozoa were used to analyze sperm parameters. The histology of the right testes was studied using stereological techniques and the left testes were used to measure the level of tissue MDA and ferric reducing antioxidant power.
Results: A significant increase in the mean level of MDA (p = 0.013) was seen in the CP compared to the control group. Sperm motility (p = 0.001) and count (p = 0.002), serum and tissue total antioxidant (p ≤ 0.001) and serum testosterone levels (p = 0.019) decreased in the CP compared to the control group. Ceratonia extract could significantly prevent the adverse effects of CP on sperm motility (p < 0.001), the mean levels of tissue MDA (p = 0.018), serum total antioxidant (p = 0.045), and testosterone (p < 0.001).
Conclusion: The Ceratonia extract can modify the reproductive toxicity of CP in rat due to the presence of antioxidant compounds.
Key words: Cyclophosphamide, Ceratonia siliqua, Spermatogenesis, Rat, Spermatogenesis indexes.
Comparison of ovulation induction with letrozole plus dexamethasone and letrozole alone in infertile women with polycystic ovarian disease: An RCT
Authors: Farzaneh Farahnaz , Afshar Fatemeh
Published: May 2020

Background: Infertility is characterized by the inability to obtain a successful pregnancy after 6 months or more with unprotected and regular intercourse. In developing countries, the incidence of infertility is 2%. The causes of infertility could be male factor or female factor, or mixed factor.
Objective: This study was conducted with the aim of comparison the ovarian response to letrozole alone and letrozole plus dexamethasone in infertile women with poly cystic ovarian disease (PCOS).
Materials and Methods: This randomized clinical trial was conducted on 120 infertile women with PCOS referred to Ali-Ebne-Abitaleb hospital, Zahedan, Iran from February to August 2017 into two groups: group I received letrozole alone and group II recived letrozole plus dexamethasone. The endometrial thickness, follicle diameter, and ovulation were evaluated and compared by ultrasound on days 12 to 14.
Results: The mean thickness of endometrium was not different between two groups. Pregnancy rate was 8% in letrozole group and 23% in Letrozole plus Dexamethasone (p = 0.024). Also, the mean diameter of follicles in two groups were not statistically significant.
Conclusion: Overall, this study showed that dexamethasone may increase pregnancy rate.
Key words: Letrozole, Dexamethasone, PCOS, Induction ovulation.
Gráfica de peso neonatal vs. edad gestacional en el Instituto Materno Infantil de Bogotá
Authors: Sabogal Juan Carlos , Cáceres Heidy
Published: May 2020

El retardo de crecimiento intrauterino es una de las causas más frecuentes de remisión a nuestro hospital. La clasificación adecuada del neonato es muy importante y es necesario un patrón comparativo pertinente. El objetivo del estudio es hallar una curva de peso vs edad gestacional a partir de sujetos normales. Se incluyó una población de 10.553 neonatos provenientes de madres sanas, con fecha de última al paquete estadístico STATA 6.0 y se determinaron los percentiles para cada edad gestacional entre 30 y 42 semanas. Luego se construyó una gráfica de peso vs edad gestacional que incluye la distribución de los percentiles 10, 25, 50, 75 y 90. Se realiza una comparación entre la gráfica obtenida y la tradicionalmente utilizada de Lubchenko y se discuten las implicaciones que tendría el uso de la nueva gráfica en la clasificación de pequeño, adecuado o grande para edad gestacional.
Menopausia: actitudes y conocimientos en un grupo de médicos internos, de la facultad de Medicina, de la Universidad de Antioquia
Authors: Ossa Jorge E. , Echeverry José Vitelino , Penagos Gloria Stella , Gutiérrez Elizabeth , Uribe Federico , Botero Jorge E. , Céspedes Claudia M. , Osorio John Wilson , Ríos Adriana Patricia , Ayora Margarita J.
Published: May 2020

Se presentan los resultados de una encuesta realizada a los médicos internos de la Facultad de Medicina de la Universidad de Antioquia, en el segundo semestre de 1997. El proyecto se realizó con el doble propósito de construir conocimiento sobre el tema del climaterio femenino un tema determinado.Se utilizó el censo y las técnicas de encuesta y escala Lickert para indagar sobre variables socioculturales, demográficas y de carácter científico/técnico. Se encontró que el nivel de conocimientos, medido por la "nota", fue de 2.85 + 0.83; la actitud frente a la terapia fue baja en el 44% y alta en el 40%. Como se había previsto en la hipótesis, la relación entre actitudes y conocimientos fue directa, pero la asociación con variables sociodemográficas no pudo determinarse debido a la homogenidad de la población.
Electricidad en endocirugía
Authors: Saavedra S. Jaime
Published: May 2020

Aunque la electrocirugía ha estado con nosotros por muchas décadas, muy pocos cirujanos han tenido un entrenamiento formal sobre la naturaleza de la electricidad y las leyes físicas que gobiernan esta, afectando sus aplicaciones clínicas potenciales.La creencia errónea de que las técnicas electroquirúrgicas incrementan el proceso de cicatrización o deterioran los procesos curativos, ha determinado que muchos los cirujanos adopten otras fuentes de energía más costosas.En la medida que comprendamos más los principios electroquirúrgicos, acompañado esto del uso de modernas unidades electroquirúrgicas con mandos comprensibles, con un polo a tierra superior, e instrumental para cirugía endoscópica con cubiertas aislantes mejoradas, determinará que la electrocirugía sea usada en una forma más amplia y con mayor confianza.
Extracurricular Activities: Success and Development of Communication Skills with the Role of Parents, Public and Home Work
Authors: Sabirov Alisher
Published: May 2020

The value of Extracurricular activities (ECA) is underestimated in the field of Higher and Secondary Education of Uzbekistan. Present work is revealing hidden potential of ECA to advance students capacity. Using unique data collected on the basis of in-depth interviews with the administration of the first international university in Uzbekistan with British accreditation , the authors tried to expand the scope of preliminary studies of the relationship of extracurricular activities with academic achievement, development of skills and the role of parents in shaping interest in extracurricular activities of students. The results demonstrate: (a) the impact of extracurricular activities on academic performance and skills development; (b) the effectiveness of the parental approach, based on a personal experience; (c) the importance of public and domestic works (unstructured extracurricular activities) in the development of the individual.
Campo nuevo, prácticas viejas: promesas y desafíos de la historia pública = New Field, Old Practices: Promises and Challenges of Public History
Authors: Cauvin Thomas
Published: May 2020

Resumen: Aunque la historia pública se está haciendo cada vez más internacional, el campo sigue siendo difícil de definir y permanece sujeto a un cierto grado de crítica. Sobre la base de prácticas públicas -en algunas ocasiones establecidas desde hace mucho tiempo- la historia pública refleja nuevos enfoques acerca de las audiencias, la colaboración y la autoridad en la producción de la historia. Este artículo ofrece una visión general de la historia pública, sus diversas definiciones, su historiografía, y aborda algunas de las críticas principales que ha recibido. La historia pública se compara con un árbol del conocimiento cuyas partes (raíces, tronco, ramas y hojas) representan las muchas etapas colaborativas e interconectadas que configuran este campo. La definición de la historia como un proceso sistémico (el árbol) plantea la necesidad de que colaboren los distintos actores -sean historiadores cualificados (formados en la universidad) o no- y se centra en la función desempeñada dentro del proceso en su totalidad. El futuro de la historia pública internacional requerirá un equilibrio entre unos enfoques basados en la práctica y unos debates más teóricos sobre el papel de los historiadores formados en la universidad, los públicos y los variados usos del pasado.Palabras clave: Historia pública, Historiografía, Colaboración, Memoria, Ética, Formación.Abstract: To define and subject to some criticism. Based on – sometimes long-established – public practices, public history reflects new approaches on audiences, collaboration, and authority in history production. This article provides an overview of public history, its various definitions, its historiography, and discusses some of the main criticisms of the field. Public history is compared to a tree of knowledge whose parts (roots, trunk, branches, and leaves) represent the many collaborative and interconnected steps of the field. Defining public history as a systemic process (tree) argues for the need of collaboration between the different actors –trained historians or not– and focuses on the function played within the whole process. The future of international public history will require balancing practice-based approaches with more theoretical discussions on the role of trained historians, the publics, and the various uses of the past. Keywords: Public History, Historiography, Collaboration, Memory, Ethics, Training.
An Algorithm for Finding Two Node-Disjoint Paths in Arbitrary Graphs
Authors: Karaata Mehmet
Published: May 2020

Given two distinct vertices (nodes) source s and target t of a graph G = (V, E), the two node-disjoint paths problem is to identify two node-disjoint paths between s ∈ V and t ∈ V. Two paths are node-disjoint if they have no common intermediate vertices. In this paper, we present an algorithm with O(m)-time complexity for finding two node-disjoint paths between s and t in arbitrary graphs where m is the number of edges. The proposed algorithm has a wide range of applications in ensuring reliability and security of sensor, mobile and fixed communication networks.
Logement et bien-être du lapin : plus de questions que de réponses ?
Authors: MIRABITO L.
Published: May 2020

Au cours de la dernière décennie, de nombreux travaux ont été consacrés à l’étude de l’impact du système de logement sur le bien-être des lapins. Au travers de cette synthèse, nous avons choisi d’aborder certains points clés du débat comme la question du type de sol, de l’enrichissement du milieu avec l’apport de substrats pour les activités orales ou la restructuration de l’espace avec la mise en place d’une plate-forme à l’intérieur des cages, de l’enrichissement social avec la question du logement collectif des reproducteurs et, enfin, celle de l’espace disponible. A partir des éléments bibliographiques rapportés et de l’expérience acquise au travers de nos propres travaux, il nous semble, en conclusion, que restent encore posées de nombreuses questions fondamentales sur le bien-être des lapins.
Facteurs déterminants du bien-être des ruminants en élevage
Authors: MOUNIER L. , MARIE M. , LENSINK B.J.
Published: May 2020

L’élevage des ruminants est caractérisé par une diversité importante de conduites et de pratiques ayant un impact sur le bien-être des animaux. En plein air, les animaux peuvent être exposés à des variations climatiques. En bâtiment, la liberté des mouvements et la qualité de l’aire de couchage sont des facteurs déterminants du confort ressenti par l’animal et de son état sanitaire. Une alimentation inadaptée aux besoins physiologiques, peut provoquer des perturbations métaboliques ou des déviations comportementales. Les modifications des groupes sociaux sont également potentiellement néfastes. Par exemple, des remaniements fréquents de la composition d’un groupe conduisent à un stress et une dégradation de l’état sanitaire et des performances zootechniques. Les interventions comme la castration, l’écornage ou la césarienne, semblent avoir un impact d’une durée limitée sur l’animal. Enfin, l’importance de la relation homme – animal sur le bien-être des ruminants semble accrue du fait de la tendance à une augmentation du nombre d’animaux par soigneur et une diminution du temps passé par animal. En conclusion, une multitude de facteurs, correspondant majoritairement aux conditions d’élevage et aux interventions zootechniques, peut influencer le bien-être des ruminants. Les recherches dans ce domaine doivent s’orienter sur l’impact des pratiques ainsi que les alternatives à développer.
Longitudinal assessment of changes in psychosocial functioning of patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis using virtual reality before, during and after treatment: a quantitative and qualitative study
Authors: Misterska Ewa , Głowacki Maciej
Published: May 2020

This project aims to longitudinally assess changes in the psychosocial functioning of females with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis before and after completion of surgical treatment and implementation of cognitive-behavioural therapy. The planned study is a longitudinal randomised trial with 1-year follow-up. The cross-sectional aspect of the research concerns differences in perception of body shape from the perspective of the patients, their doctors, and healthy female adolescents. This study will recruit 106 patients treated at the Department of Pediatric Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, their doctors and 106 healthy female controls. It will be the first study to use biometric self-avatars in virtual reality to investigate changes within body representation in scoliosis. The study findings will inform the development of guidelines for interdisciplinary rehabilitation of scoliosis patients following surgical treatment.
The Role of Temperature in COVID-19 Disease Severity and Transmission Rates
Authors: Kang Dominique , Ellgen Clifford
Published: May 2020

Air temperature and body temperature may influence COVID-19 disease severity and transmission rates. In vitro data indicate that SARS-CoV-2 loses infectivity at normal core body temperature (37°C); however, small reductions in temperature proximate to 37°C may result in substantially increased viral stability. If these results are representative of viral decay rates in vivo, then cooler temperatures in the body may enable more rapid viral growth. Breathing cool air—even as warm as 25°C—cools upper respiratory tract (URT) surfaces to several degrees below body temperature, and these lower temperatures may make the URT exceptionally conducive to SARS-CoV-2 replication. Increased URT viral load may enable more effective transmission. Additionally, because SARS-CoV-2 infection may frequently begin in the URT before spreading through the body, an increased rate of viral replication in the URT early in the disease course may result in more rapid progression of disease, potentially causing more severe adverse outcomes. Core body temperature may also be a factor in disease severity, as lower core body temperatures may enable more rapid viral growth. The significance of air temperature and body temperature to disease severity and transmission rates may inform preventative measures and post-exposure prophylaxis treatments for COVID-19.
The Effects of Age, Gender, and Control Device in a Virtual-Reality Driving Simulation
Authors: Chang Wen-Te
Published: May 2020

The application of Virtual Reality in a driving simulation is not novel, yet little is known about the use of this technology by senior populations. The effects of age, sex, control device (joystick or handlebar), and task type on wayfinding proficiency using a virtual reality (VR) driving simulation were explored. The driving experimental model involved 96 randomly recruited participants, including 48 young people and 48 seniors (split evenly by gender in each group). The experimental results and statistical analyses indicate that in a VR driving scenario task type significantly affected VR driving performance. Navigational scores were significantly higher for the straight (easy) task than for the curved (difficult) task. The aging effect was the main reason for significant and interacting effects of sex and control device. It was found that interactions between age and sex difference indicated that the young group exhibited better wayfinding performance than the senior group, and in the young group males had better performance than females. Similarly, interactions between age and control device indicated that the handlebar control device type resulted in better performance than the joystick device in the young group, but no difference was found in the senior group due to age or learning effects. Findings provide an understanding of the evaluation of the interface designs of navigational support systems, taking into consideration any effects of age, sex, control device, and task type within three-dimensional VR games and driving systems. With a VR driving simulator, seniors can test drive inaccessible products, such as electric bicycles or cars, using a computer at home.
Genomic Characterization and Phylogenetic Analysis of SARS-CoV-2 in Asia
Authors: Moradi Jale
Published: May 2020

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) as the current coronavirus pandemic is an infectious disease that initially confirmed in China in late December 2019. In this study, we analyzed 131 complete sequences of SARS-CoV-2 from Asia. Our results show that there are fifteen major mutations in Asia which most of them are co-evolved. There were five groups based on co-mutations which three of them resulted in clade G including (241C>T, 3037C>T, 14408C>T, and 23403A>G), (28881G>A, 28882G>A, 28883G>C and 23403A>G) and (25563G>T and 23403A>G). Co-mutations in (8782C>T and 28144T>C) and (1397G>A, 28688T>C, 29742G>T and 11083G>T) were clustered in clade S and a new clade outside of GISAID classification, respectively. Sequences with a mutation in 26144G>T had low variability without any co-mutation which formed clade V. In this study, we showed that Most of the circulated viruses in Asia collected in five co-mutation groups which may affect the transmissibility and vaccine designing strategies.
Formação inicial do professor: um estudo de caso a partir dos cursos de licenciatura em Matemática do Plano Nacional de Formação de Professores da Educação Básica – PARFOR
Authors: Vieira Weder , Meneguin Fernando
Published: May 2020

Este artigo estuda o Plano Nacional de Formação de Professores da Educação Básica (PARFOR) e seus desdobramentos no estado do Pará, onde há elevados índices de professores sem formação específica na área de atuação. Trata-se de uma pesquisa descritiva e exploratória, realizada a partir da pesquisa documental de textos oficiais e de campo com a realização de entrevistas semiestruturadas com gestores e coordenadores do PARFOR e da aplicação de questionário aos professores estudantes que participaram do curso de matemática durante o período investigado. A pesquisa revelou que os fatores de permanência no curso de matemática estão relacionados ao perfil do cursista e ao desenho da estrutura do curso. Além disso, pode-se considerar o programa exitoso no estado do Pará, uma vez que além de ter formado um grupo considerável de professores leigos, esses sujeitos também encerraram tendo uma avaliação positiva sobre o curso.
Abordagens na pesquisa em educação Matemática: algumas reflexões e perspectivas epistemológicas
Authors: Mafra José Ricardo e Souza , Sá Pedro Franco de
Published: May 2020

Este trabalho apresenta um estudo de natureza bibliográfica, objetivando realizar uma reflexão sobre abordagens de pesquisa em Educação Matemática, no Brasil e a nível mundial. Apresenta elementos referenciais para se pensar e refletir sobre a atividade de pesquisa educacional, relativa à educação matemática, através de diversas fontes bibliográficas, tais como: livros, periódicos, anais de eventos de educação matemática ou educação, relacionadas ao tema da pesquisa. Os resultados obtidos indicam que a diversidade de abordagens de pesquisa da Educação Matemática advém das diversas correntes metodológicas, configuradas nas últimas décadas, com forte ênfase na pesquisa em Ciências Sociais e na Educação, projetando uma espécie de espalhamento epistemológico. Estas projeções epistemológicas, apontam desafios atuais, tais como: produzir resultados generalizáveis e que se aproximem da Educação Básica; desenvolver repositórios das tendências de pesquisa; aumentar a quantidade de pesquisas em rede e a produção de materiais adequados para quem não gosta de matemática.

Palavras-chave: Educação Matemática, Abordagens metodológicas, Epistemologia da Educação Matemática.
Hypertension in Saudi Arabia: Assessing Life Style and Attitudes
Authors: Elbashir Bushra , Al-dkheel Msab , Aldakheel Hamad , Aruwished Naif , Alodayani Nasser
Published: May 2020

Background:

The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet lowers blood pressure (BP) effectively. There is evidence that strongly supports the concept that lifestyle modification has a powerful effect on BP. The DASH diet includes increased physical activity, reduced salt intake, weight loss, increased potassium intake, and an overall healthy dietary pattern. This study assesses the knowledge and attitudes of Saudis in Riyadh City towards lifestyle and hypertension.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was designed using a questionnaire-based assessment tool, which included sociodemographic data, knowledge and lifestyle attitudes toward hypertension, such as dietary factors, stress, smoking, physical activities, and diet-related diseases (including obesity and diabetes mellitus). Statistical analyses to examine the perceived association between lifestyle factors and hypertension risks included frequency distribution, percentages, and chi-square tests of significance.

Results:

Out of 934 total participants, 13.6% were hypertensive; 84.4% and 60.2% of participants believed eating salty food and fatty food, respectively, were risk factors for hypertension. Almost 66.0% of participants considered stress as a risk factor for the development of hypertension, whereas 77.0% considered smoking as a risk factor. The data showed that 87.5% considered obesity as a risk factor, and 73.8% considered reducing weight as a preventive measure for hypertension. Also, 68.8% believed that physical inactivity was a risk factor for hypertension. Data showed that 16.6 % ate vegetables and 23.1% ate fruits as recommended, whereas 18.8% and 18.4%, respectively, rarely ate vegetables and fruits. About 12.1% smoked and 19.7% exercised regularly, whereas 15.6% did not exercise at all. Traffic and examination were reported as stress factors by younger participants.

Conclusion and Implications for Translation:

The knowledge of the relationship between hypertension risk factors and eating salty or fatty food was high. In contrast, knowledge of not eating vegetables and fruits as a risk factor for the development of hypertension was very low among the Saudis.
Experimental and Molecular Insights on Mitigation of Hydrocarbon Sieving in Niobrara Shale by CO2 Huff ‘n’ Puff
Authors: Zhu Ziming , Fang Chao , Qiao Rui , Yin Xiaolong , Ozkan Erdal
Published: May 2020

In nanoporous rocks, potential size/mobility exclusion and fluid–rock interactions in nanosized pores and pore throats can turn the rock into a semipermeable membrane, blocking or hindering the passage of certain molecules while allowing other molecules to pass freely. In this work, we conducted several experiments to investigate whether CO2 can mitigate the sieving effect on the hydrocarbon molecules flowing through Niobrara samples. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of adsorption equilibrium with and without CO2 were performed to help understand the trends observed in the experiments. The experimental procedure includes pumping liquid binary hydrocarbon mixtures (C10 and C17) of known compositions into Niobrara samples, collecting the effluents from the samples, and analyzing the compositions of the effluents. A specialized experimental setup that uses an in-line filter as a minicore holder was built for this investigation. Niobrara samples were cored and machined into 0.5-in. diameter and 0.7-in. length minicores. Hydrocarbon mixtures were injected into the minicores, and effluents were collected periodically and analyzed using gas chromatography (GC). After observing the sieving effect of the minicores, CO2 huff ‘n’ puff was performed at 600 psi, a pressure much lower than the miscibility pressure. CO2 was injected from the production side to soak the sample for a period, then the flow of the mixture was resumed, and effluents were analyzed using GC. Experimental results show that CO2 huff ‘n’ puff in several experiments noticeably mitigated the sieving of heavier components (C17). The observed increase in the fraction of C17 in the produced fluid can be either temporary or lasting. In most experiments, temporary increases in flow rates were also observed. MD simulation results suggest that for a calcite surface in equilibrium with a binary mixture of C10 and C17, more C17 molecules adsorb on the carbonate surface than the C10 molecules. Once CO2 molecules are added to the system, CO2 displaces C10 and C17 from calcite. Thus, the experimentally observed increase in the fraction of C17 can be attributed to the release of adsorbed C17. This study suggests that surface effects play a significant role in affecting flows and compositions of fluids in tight formations. In unconventional oil reservoirs, observed enhanced recovery from CO2 huff ‘n’ puff could be partly attributed to surface effects in addition to the recognized thermodynamic interaction mechanisms.
Investigation of Microseismicity and Permeability Evolution in Shale Fractures during Stimulation
Authors: Ye Zhi , Ghassemi Ahmad
Published: May 2020

Shear slip of pre-existing fractures can play a crucial role in hydraulic stimulation to enable production from unconventional shale reservoirs. Evidence of the phenomenon is found in microseismic/seismic events induced during stimulation by hydraulic fracturing. However, induced seismicity and permeability evolution in response to fracture shear slip by injection have not been extensively studied in laboratory tests under relevant conditions. In this work, a cylindrical Eagle Ford Shale sample having a single fracture (tensile fracture) was used to perform a laboratory injection test with concurrent acoustic emission (AE) monitoring. In the test, shear slip was induced on the fracture at near critical stress state by injecting pressurized brine water [7% potassium chloride (KCl)]. Sample deformation (stress, displacement), fluid flow (injection pressure, flow rate), and AE signals (hits, events) were all recorded. The data were then used to characterize the fully coupled seismo-hydromechanical response of the shale fracture during shearing. Results show that the induced AE/microseismic events correlate well with the fracture slip and the permeability evolution. Most of the recorded AE hits and events were detected during the seismic-slip interval corresponding to a rapid fracture slip and a large stress drop. As a result of dilatant shear slip, a remarkable enhancement of fracture permeability was achieved. Before this seismic interval, an aseismic-slip interval was evident during the tests, where the fracture slip, associated stress relaxation, and permeability increase were limited. The test results and analyses demonstrate the role of shear slip in permeability enhancement and induced seismicity by hydraulic stimulation for unconventional shale reservoirs.
ATP measurement as an objective method to measure environmental contamination in 9 hospitals in the Dutch/Belgian border area.
Authors: Arkel Andreas van , Willemsen Ina , Kilsdonk-Bode Linda , Vlamings-Wagenaars Sindy , Oudheusden Anne van , De Waegemaeker Pascal , Leroux-Roels Isabel , Verelst Martine , Maas Evelien , Oosten Anita van , Willemse Patricia , Asselen Esther van , Klomp-Berens Ella , Franssen Karen , Cauwenberg Elise Van , Kluytmans Jan
Published: May 2020

Background The objective of this study was to determine the level of environmental contamination in hospitals in the Dutch/Belgian border area, using ATP measurements. Design A cross-sectional observational survey Methods Standardized ATP measurements were conducted in 9 hospitals on 32 hospital wards. Thirty pre-defined surfaces per hospital ward were measured with the 3M Clean Trace NG luminometer. Results are displayed in relative light units (RLU). RLU >1000 was considered as “not clean.” Differences in RLU values were compared between countries, hospitals, fomite groups and medical specialties. Results A total of 960 ATP measurements were performed, ranging from 60 up to 120 per hospital. The median RLU-value was 568 (range: 3 – 277,586) and 37.7% of the measurements were rated as not clean (RLU >1000). There were significant differences between countries, hospitals and fomite groups. Conclusion ATP measurements can be used as a more objective approach to determine the level of environmental contamination in hospitals. Significant differences in ATP levels were found between hospitals and between countries. Also, substantial differences were found between different fomite groups. These findings offer potential targets for improvement of cleanliness in healthcare facilities.
Different regulation of PARP1, PARP2, PARP3 and TRPM2 genes expression in acute myeloid leukemia cells
Authors: Gil-Kulik Paulina , Dudzińska Ewa , Radzikowska-Büchner Elżbieta , Wawer Joanna , Jojczuk Mariusz , Nogalski Adam , Wawer Genowefa Anna , Feldo Marcin , Kocki Wojciech , Cioch Maria , Bogucka-Kocka Anna , Rahnama Mansur , Kocki Janusz
Published: May 2020

Background: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogenic lethal disorder characterized by the accumulation of abnormal myeloid progenitor cells in the bone marrow which results in hematopoietic failure. Despite various efforts in detection and treatment, many patients with AML die of this cancer. That is why it is important to develop novel therapeutic options, employing strategic target genes involved in apoptosis and tumor progression.Methods: The aim of the study was to evaluate PARP1, PARP2, PARP3, and TRPM2 gene expression at mRNA level using qPCR method in the cells of hematopoietic system of the bone marrow in patients with acute myeloid leukemia, bone marrow collected from healthy patients, peripheral blood of healthy individuals, and hematopoietic stem cells from the peripheral blood after mobilization. Results: The results found that the bone marrow cells of the patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) show overexpression of PARP1 and PARP2 genes and decreased TRPM2 gene expression. In the hematopoietic stem cells derived from the normal marrow and peripheral blood after mobilization, the opposite situation was observed, i.e. TRPM2 gene showed increased expression while PARP1 and PARP2 gene expression was reduced. We observed positive correlations between PARP1, PARP2, PARP3, and TRPM2 genes expression in the group of mature mononuclear cells derived from the peripheral blood and in the group of bone marrow-derived cells. In AML cells significant correlations were not observed between the expression of the examined genes. In addition, we observed that the reduced expression of TRPM2 and overexpression of PARP1 are associated with a shorter overall survival of patients, indicating the prognostic significance of these genes expression in AML.Conclusions: Our research suggests that in physiological conditions in the cells of the hematopoietic system there is mutual positive regulation of PARP1, PARP2, PARP3, and TRPM2 genes expression. PARP1, PARP2, and TRPM2 genes at mRNA level deregulate in acute myeloid leukemia cells.
Plant defensin antibacterial mode of action against Pseudomonas species
Authors: Sathoff Andrew E. , Lewenza Shawn , Samac Deborah A.
Published: May 2020

Background Though many plant defensins exhibit antibacterial activity, little is known about their antibacterial mode of action (MOA). Antimicrobial peptides with a characterized MOA induce the expression of multiple bacterial outer membrane modifications, which are required for resistance to these membrane-targeting peptides. Mini-Tn 5-lux mutant strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa with Tn insertions disrupting outer membrane protective modifications were assessed for sensitivity against plant defensin peptides. These transcriptional lux reporter strains were also evaluated for lux gene expression in response to sublethal plant defensin exposure. Also, a plant pathogen, Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae was modified through transposon mutagenesis to create mutants that are resistant to in vitro MtDef4 treatments. Results Plant defensins displayed specific and potent antibacterial activity against strains of P. aeruginosa . A defensin from Medicago truncatula , MtDef4, induced dose-dependent gene expression of the aminoarabinose modification of LPS and surface polycation spermidine production operons. The ability for MtDef4 to damage bacterial outer membranes was also verified visually through fluorescent microscopy. Another defensin from M. truncatula , MtDef5, failed to induce lux gene expression and limited outer membrane damage was detected with fluorescent microscopy. The transposon insertion site on MtDef4 resistant P. syringae pv. syringae mutants was sequenced, and modifications of ribosomal genes were identified to contribute to enhanced resistance to plant defensin treatments. Conclusions MtDef4 damages the outer membrane similar to polymyxin B, which stimulates antimicrobial peptide resistance mechanisms to plant defensins. MtDef5, appears to have a different antibacterial MOA. Additionally, the MtDef4 antibacterial mode of action may also involve inhibition of translation.
Differentiation and localization of interneurons in the developing spinal cord depends on DOT1L expression
Authors: de Cristoforis Angelica Gray , Ferrari Francesco , Clotman Frédéric , Vogel Tanja
Published: May 2020

Genetic and epigenetic factors contribute to the development of the spinal cord. Failure in correct exertion of the developmental programs, including neurulation, neural tube closure and neurogenesis of the diverse spinal cord neuronal subtypes results in clinical phenotypes with variable severity. The histone methyltransferase Disruptor of Telomeric 1 Like (DOT1L), which mediates histone H3 lysine 79 (H3K79) methylation, is fundamental for proper development of the cerebral cortex and cerebellum, and here we report on its essential role for development of the spinal cord. Conditional inactivation of DOT1L using Wnt1-cre as driver in the developing murine spinal cord did not result in neural tube closure defect (NTCD). Transcriptome analysis revealed that DOT1L deficiency favored differentiation over progenitor proliferation. Dot1l -cKO mainly decreased the numbers of dI1 interneurons expressing Lhx2 . Loss of DOT1L affected localization but not generation of dI2, dI3, and dI5 interneurons. The resulting derailed interneuron patterns might be responsible for increased cell death that occurred at the late developmental stage E18.5. Together our data indicate that DOT1L is essential for subtype- specific neurogenesis, migration and localization of interneurons in the developing spinal cord, in part by regulating transcriptional activation of Lhx2 .
A novel C-terminal degron identified in bacterial aldehyde decarbonylases using directed evolution
Authors: liu yilan , chen jinjin , Khusnutdinova Anna N. , Correia Kevin , Diep Patrick , Batyrovaa Khorcheska A. , Nemr Kayla , Flick Robert , Stogios Peter , Yakunin Alexander F. , Mahadevan Radhakrishnan
Published: May 2020

Background: Aldehyde decarbonylases (ADs), which convert acyl aldehydes into alkanes, supply promising solution for producing alkanes from renewable feedstock. However the instability of ADs impedes their further application. Therefore, the current study aimed to investigate the degradation mechanism of ADs and engineer it towards high stability.Results: Here, we describe the discovery of a degradation tag (degron) in the AD from marine cyanobacterium Prochlorococcus marinus using error-prone PCR based directed evolution system. Bioinformatic analysis revealed that this C-terminal degron is common in bacterial ADs and identified a conserved C-terminal motif, RMSAYGLAAA, representing the AD degron (ADcon). Furthermore, we demonstrated that the ATP-dependent proteases ClpAP and Lon are involved in the degradation of AD-tagged proteins in E. coli, thereby limiting alkane production. Deletion or modification of the degron motif increased alkane production in vivo. Conclusion: This work revealed the presence of a novel degron in bacterial ADs responsible for its instability. The in vivo experiments proved eliminating or modifying the degron could stabilize AD, thereby producing higher titers of alkanes.
High-performance AlGaN double channel HEMTs with improved drain current density and high breakdown voltage
Authors: Zhang Yachao , Li Yifan , Wnag Jia , Shen Yiming , Du Lin , Li Yao , Wang Zhizhe , Xu Shengrui , Zhang Jincheng , Hao Yue
Published: May 2020

In this work, AlGaN double channel heterostructure is proposed and grown by metal organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD), and high-performance AlGaN double channel high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs) are fabricated and investigated. The implementation of double channel feature effectively improves the transport properties of AlGaN channel heterostructures. On one hand, the total two dimensional electron gas (2DEG) density is promoted due to the double potential wells along the vertical direction and the enhanced carrier confinement. On the other hand, the average 2DEG density in each channel is reduced, and the mobility is elevated resulted from the suppression of carrier-carrier scattering effect. As a result, the maximum drain current density (I max ) of AlGaN double channel HEMTs reaches 473 mA/mm with gate voltage of 0V. Moreover, the superior breakdown performance of the AlGaN double channel HEMTs is also demonstrated. These results not only show the great application potential of AlGaN double channel HEMTs in microwave power electronics, but also develops a new thinking for the studies of group III nitride based electronic devices.
Barriers and facilitators of medicines reconciliation at transitions of care in Ireland – a qualitative study
Authors: Redmond Patrick , Munir Khalid , Alabi Oludare , Grimes Tamasine , Clyne Barbara , Hughes Carmel , Fahey Tom
Published: May 2020

Background Medication error at transitions of care is common. The implementation of medicines reconciliation processes to improve this issue has been recommended by many regulatory and safety organisations. The aim of this study was to gain insight from healthcare professionals on the barriers and facilitators to the medicines reconciliation implementation process. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted in Ireland with a wide range of healthcare professionals (HCPs) involved with medicines reconciliation at transitions of care. Thematic analysis was undertaken using an adaptation of a combined theoretical framework of Grol, Cabana and Sluisveld to classify the barriers and facilitators to implementation of medicines reconciliation. Results Thirty-five participants were interviewed, including eleven community pharmacists (CPs), eight hospital pharmacists (HPs), nine hospital consultants (HCs), five general practitioners (GPs), and two non-consultant hospital doctors (NCHDs). Themes were categorized into barriers and facilitators. Barriers included resistance from existing professional cultures, staff interest and training, poor communication and minimal information and communications technology (ICT) support. Solutions (facilitators) suggested included supporting effective multidisciplinary teams, greater involvement of pharmacists in medicines reconciliation, ICT solutions (linked prescribing databases, decision support systems) and increased funding to provide additional (e.g. admission and discharge reconciliation) and more advanced services (e.g. community pharmacist delivered medicines use review). Conclusions Medicines reconciliation is advocated as a solution to the known problem of medication error at transitions of care. This study identifies the key challenges and potential solutions that policy makers, managers and HCPs should consider when reviewing the practices and processes of medicines reconciliation in their own organisations.