bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pengaruh beberapa teknik pengendalian terhadap keragaman dan intensitas berbagai jenis penyakit yang muncul pada pertanaman pepaya di Pekon Way Nipah Kecamatan Pematang Sawa
Authors: Firnando Firnando , Suharjo Radix , Prasetyo Joko , Nurdin Muhammad , Swibawa I Gede , Susilo Franciscus Xaverius
Published: September 2020

The study was aimed to determine the diseases in papaya plantations and to evaluate the effect of various disease control techniques against the intensity of disease in papaya plants in Pekon Way Nipah, Pematang Sawa District, Lampung. This research was conducted in October 2018 to May 2019 in the Biotechnology Laboratory, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Lampung and in Pekon Way Nipah, Pematang Sawa, Tanggamus, Lampung. This study was randomized block designed (RBD) with eight treatments consisting of control (K), biological spray agent (AHSP), manure plus biological agents (PK + AH), soil biological treatment agent (AHSI), bactericide spray (BSP)), manure (PK), solarization (SL), and tillage (OT). The study showed that the diseases that occurred on papaya plantations were suspected as powdery mildew, brown spots 1, brown spots 2, curly cladosporium, leaf curly, root rot and stem base. The treatment of manure plus biological agents reduced the severity of brown spot 1, brown spot 2, powdery mildew, and cladospsorium curling while solarization treatment suppressed the occurrence of root rot and base stem disease.
Eksplorasi, isolasi dan identifikasi Jamur entomopatogen yang menginfeksi serangga hama
Authors: Arsi Arsi , Pujiastuti Yulia , Kusuma Suparman Surya Hadi , Gunawan Bambang
Published: September 2020

ABSTRACT

Entomopathogenic fungi are classified as a fungus that infects insect pests. Hyphae color that comes out of the insect's body depends on the type of entomopathogenic fungus that attacks it. The purpose of this research is to explore, isolate and identify entomopathogenic fungi that attack insect pests. Samples of dead insects were taken from vegetable crops in the highlands of Pagaralam City and the lowlands of Ogan Komering Ilir Regency. In addition, exploration is also carried out using insect bait methods. This method is carried out on soils taken from the highlands of the fencealam area and Pekanbaru area. Based on the results of entomopathogenic expolation in vegetable plants that infect insects in the field there are 2 types of fungi that attack the insect. Two types of entomapatogenic fungi were found to have characteristics, namely the first hyphal color is rather green which covers the entire body of the insect and the second is white hyphae. The fungus that attacks the insect, then isolated to the GYA media found two entomopathogenic fungi namely, Metarhizium sp. and Beauveria bassiana. Meanwhile, through insect bait using soil T. molitor larvae, one species of entomopathogenic fungus was found, namely Metarhizium sp. The most infected T. molitor larvae in the soil of origin of Pekanbaru in the 2nd and 4th weeks, namely, 21.90 and 29.33 tails.

 

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Keywords: Entomopathogenic Fungus, Insect Pest and Tenibrio molitor
Música na internet
Authors: Nicolau Netto Michel
Published: September 2020

As mudanças recentes na indústria da música gravada devem ser percebidas como a retirada da indústria fonográfica do centro de uma mais ampla gama de negócios que envolvem a exploração econômica da música. Essa descentralização levou muitos a entenderem como o fim do controle, a liberdade total ao consumo música, pois não haveria mais a gravadora e a loja física a filtrarem a oferta e o acesso. Nesse cenário, supôs-se que seria, então, o “povo” o novo detentor do poder, sendo que termos como “empoderamento do povo” passam, então, a ser comum no mercado de música que circula pela internet. Contudo, quando olhamos o acesso a sites na rede e mesmo o consumo de produtos musicais, notamos que a abertura proclamada se reflete em um intenso afunilamento daquilo que é acessado. Ora, se as gravadoras perderam sua condição de filtrar aquilo que se ouve, como então se dá esse afunilamento? Tomando por base a ideia de micro-poderes de Foucault, pretendemos demonstrar que o poder praticado pelo usuário, no momento de sua navegação, leva justamente a esse cenário. Com isso, podemos notar que, em verdade, descentralização não significa ausência de controle.
Acordes e desacordos
Authors: Freitas Sérgio Paulo Ribeiro de
Published: September 2020

Diálogos com o referencial schoenberguiano são relevantes para a análise e crítica da música popular atual? Soluções wagnerianas ainda ressoam nas sucessões harmônicas que podemos ouvir em obras deste repertório? Tais questões estão articuladas a juízos de valor que formal ou informalmente sancionamos em música popular? Neste texto são apresentadas ponderações que, em princípio, dão respostas afirmativas para estas três perguntas. Observando acordos e desacordos nas teses destes dois vultosos personagens do germanocentrismo  musical, primeiramente são considerados alguns argumentos schoenberguianos a respeito do artisticamente progressivo e daquilo que pode ser apontado como procedimento musical regressivo. Em seguida, são comentadas algumas escolhas composicionais defendidas por Wagner, tais como o verso aliterativo e a harmonização dramaticamente motivada. Por fim, exercitando pontos de contato entre a cultura da tonalidade expandida do século XIX e planos tonais que gozam de considerável prestígio em determinado repertório popular de meados do século XX, sugere-se que repensar tais questões é algo que pode contribuir para a reapreciação de valores que, tacitamente, aprendemos a defender.
The Solution of the Cosmological Constant Problem: The Cosmological Constant Exponential Decrease in the Super-Early Universe
Authors: Babourova Ol'ga , Frolov Boris
Published: September 2020

The stage of a super-early scale-invariant Universe is considered on the basis of the Poincaré–Weyl gauge theory of gravity in a Cartan–Weyl space-time. An approximate solution has been found that demonstrates an inflationary behavior of the scale factor and, at the same time, a sharp exponential decrease in the effective cosmological constant from a huge value at the beginning of the Big Bang to an extremely small (but not zero) value in the modern era, which solves the well-known “cosmological constant problem”.
Increased Autoimmune Responses to Oxidative Specific Epitopes in Bipolar Disorder Type 1 and Major Depression: Towards A Data-Driven, Mechanistic Model of Mood Disorders
Authors: Stoyanov Drozdstoy , Leunis Jean–Claude , Murdjeva Marianna , Maes Michael
Published: September 2020

Major depression is accompanied by increased IgM-mediated autoimmune responses to oxidative specific epitopes (OSEs). Nevertheless, these responses have not been examined in bipolar disorder type 1 (BP1) and BP2. IgM responses to malondialdehyde (MDA), phosphatidinylinositol, oleic acid, and azelaic acid were determined in 35 healthy controls, and 101 mood disorder patients, namely 47 major depressed (MDD), 29 BP1, and 25 BP2 patients. We also measured serum total peroxides, IgG to oxidized LDL (oxLDL), IgM to nitroso-adducts, and IgM/IgA directed to lipopolysaccharides (LPS). IgM responses to OSEs were significantly higher in MDD and BP1 as compared with controls and higher in MDD than in BP2. Partial Least Squares (PLS) analysis showed that 57.7% of the variance in the clinical phenome of mood disorders was explained by number of episodes, IgM directed to OSEs and nitroso-adducts, IgG to oxLDL, and peroxides. There were significant specific indirect effects of IgA/IgM to LPS on the clinical phenome, which were mediated by peroxides, IgM OSEs, and IgG oxLDL. Using PLS we have constructed a data-driven nomothetic network which ensembled causome (increased plasma LPS load), adverse outcome pathways (namely neuro-affective toxicity), and clinical phenome features of mood disorders in a data-driven model. Based on those feature sets, cluster analysis discovered a new diagnostic class characterized by increased plasma LPS load, peroxides, autoimmune responses to OSEs and nitroso-adducts, and increased phenome scores. Using the new nomothetic network approach, we constructed a mechanistically transdiagnostic diagnostic class indicating neuro-affective toxicity in 74.3% of the mood disorder patients.
Influence of the Open Kinetic Chain on the Distension of the Transplant after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Surgery with Hamstring Graft: Search for Risk Factors
Authors: Belloir Morgan , Mazeas Jean , Traullé Maude , Vandebrouck Amaury , Duffiet Pascal , Ratte Louis , Forelli Florian
Published: September 2020

Rehabilitation following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with hamstring graft allows the patient to regain his functional capacities and to support him in the resumption of sports activities. Rehabilitation also aims to minimize the risk of recurrence, which is why it ensures that the patient's muscular capacities develop properly until they return to sport. Isokinetics helps strengthen and assess the strength of muscle groups in the thigh, but controversy exists as to its use by resistance to the open kinetic chain knee extension that would cause the transplant to distend. The objective of this study is to determine the influence of isokinetic muscle strengthening on the possible laxity of the anterior cruciate ligament and to be able to determine risk factors. The study relates to a population having benefited from anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with hamstring graft from 3 to 6 months after surgery. Two groups are differentiated, one group exposed to isokinetism during rehabilitation, the other group, named unexposed, undergoes rehabilitation without the use of isokinetism. An anterior knee laxity test is performed 6 months postoperatively using the GNRB® machine for all subjects according to the same protocol. The test results were statistically analyzed to determine a relative risk of transplant distension for each group in the study. Comparison of the results of each group by univariate analysis did not reveal any significant result. Multivariate analysis showed interactions in the two strata of the study. It was argued that the use of isokinetics seems to have no effect on the risk of developing distension for the majority of subjects in the exposed group. A tendency towards transplant protection was perceived for each variable except the age under 25 years (RRa = 1.07). The use of isokinetics does not appear to be a cause of transplant distension in patients undergoing an anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction when this method is introduced 3 months postoperatively.
Prolonged Hospital Stay is Associated with Increase Surgical Site Infection, Gastrointestinal and Hepatobiliary Surgery – A propensity Matched Analysis
Authors: Vasavada Bhavin , Patel Hardik
Published: September 2020

Aims: Primary AIM of the study was to evaluate effect of prolonged hospital stay on Surgical site infections We also evaluated effect of prolonged hospital stay on overall morbidity in Gastrointestinal and Hepatobiliary Surgery as secondary outcome. Methods: We retrospectively analysed all the patients who underwent gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary surgery between April 2017 to March 2020. On our analysis we found mean hospital stay in patient who did not develop SSI and/or morbidity was 4 days (Total hospital stay) vs 6 days who developed morbidity (hospital stay before diagnosis of SSI or diagnosis or morbid event). Based on this to avoid selection bias, we did 1:1 propensity score analysis between patients who had 4 or less than hospital stay vs patients who had 5 or more hospital stay before diagnosis of surgical site infection and/or morbid event. We took all the preoperative and intraoperative factors like Age, sex, malignant disease, ASA score, CDC grade of surgery, open or laparoscopic surgery, HPB surgeries, colorectal surgeries, Upper Gastrointestinal surgeries and small intestinal surgeries as covariates. We used nearest neighbor matching protocol with a calipher of 0.2. Cases were not reusable after matching. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 23. Results: We included 348 patients operated between April 2017 and March 2020 in our analysis. After 1:1 propensity score matching 58 patients included in study arm (prevent hospital stay more than 4 days) and 56 patients in control arm. Both groups were comparable with regard to Age, Sex, Surgery for malignant disease, ASA score, CDC grade of surgery, HPB surgeries, Small intestinal surgeries, Colorectal surgeries, upper gastrointestinal surgeries, intraoperative blood product requirement, intraoperative hypotension or any other event, operative time. Prolonged hospital stay (> 4 days) was significantly associated with surgical site infections (p<0.0001), morbidity (p=0.001). Open surgeries were associated with prolonged hospital stay. (p=0.032). Conclusion: Prolonged Hospital stay is associated with increase surgical site infection and morbidity in Gastrointestinal and Hepatobiliary Surgery.
A Streamlined Workflow for Conversion, Peer-Review and Publication of Omics Metadata as Omics Data Papers
Authors: Dimitrova Mariya , Meyer Raïssa , Buttigieg Pier Luigi , Georgiev Teodor , Zhelezov Georgi , Demirov Seyhan , Smith Vincent , Penev Lyubomir
Published: September 2020

Data papers have emerged as a powerful instrument for open data publishing, obtaining credit, and establishing priority for datasets generated in scientific experiments. Academic publishing improves data and metadata quality through peer-review and increases the impact of datasets by enhancing their visibility, accessibility, and re-usability. We aimed to establish a new type of article structure and template for omics studies: the omics data paper. To improve data interoperability and further incentivise researchers to publish high-quality data sets, we created a workflow for streamlined import of omics metadata directly into a data paper manuscript. An omics data paper template was designed by defining key article sections which encourage the description of omics datasets and methodologies. The workflow was based on REpresentational State Transfer services and Xpath to extract information from the European Nucleotide Archive, ArrayExpress and BioSamples databases, which follow community-agreed standards. The workflow for automatic import of standard-compliant metadata into an omics data paper manuscript facilitates the authoring process. It demonstrates the importance and potential of creating machine-readable and standard-compliant metadata. The omics data paper structure and workflow to import omics metadata improves the data publishing landscape by providing a novel mechanism for creating high-quality, enhanced metadata records, peer reviewing and publishing of these. It constitutes a powerful addition for distribution, visibility, reproducibility and re-usability of scientific data. We hope that streamlined metadata re-use for scholarly publishing encourages authors to improve the quality of their metadata to achieve a truly FAIR data world.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Poverty Reduction in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR)
Authors: Mhlanga David
Published: September 2020

Though the share of the world population living in extreme poverty declined to 10 percent in 2015, from 16 percent in 2010 and 36 percent in 1990, data shows that the world is not on track in achieving the target of less than 3 percent of people living in extreme poverty by 2030. Hence the study sought to investigate the influence of AI on poverty reduction. Using content analysis one of the unobtrusive research techniques, the study found out that, the availability of relevant data is making AI be able to deliver value to humanity and AI has a strong influence on poverty in areas of relevant data collection through poverty maps, its ability to revolutionize agriculture, education, and the financial sector through digital financial inclusion. The study also discovered that many countries especially developing nations are not collecting as much data to identify the number of poor people and the regions where these people are located. However, the existence of AI is assisting to change this, or instance the study discovered that the research team at Stanford University is using satellite images to provide an alternative to map poverty, to identify the regions where poverty is more concentrated. Also, various robotics and AI programs such as Google and Stanford University’s Sustainability and Artificial Intelligence Lab, are coming forth with AI programs in agriculture which are doing a lot to improve farming, through the identification of diseases, prediction of crop yields, and location of areas prone to a scarcity among several other notable signs of progress in education. Therefore, the study recommends that governments, development institutions and other organizations that are striving to fight poverty to invest more in AI as well as adopting and scaling up its use as it presents benefits in the quest to ensure that poverty is reduced.
Quadratic Gravity, Double Layers and Non-Conservative Energy-Momentum Tensor
Authors: Berezin Victor , Dokuchaev Vyacheslav , Eroshenko Yury , Smirnov Alexey
Published: September 2020

In the present paper we investigate the conservative conditions in Quadratic Gravity. It is shown explicitly that the Bianchi identities lead to the conservative condition of the left-hand-side of the (gravitational) field equation. Therefore, the total energy-momentum tensor is conservative in the bulk (like in General Relativity). However, in Quadratic Gravity it is possible to have singular hupersurfaces separating the bulk regions with different behavior of the matter energy-momentum tensor or different vacua. They require special consideration. We derived the conservative conditions on such singular hypersurfaces and demonstrated the very possibility of the matter creation. In the remaining part of the paper we considered some applications illustrating the obtained results.
Gray- and Black-Box Modeling of Ships and Wave Energy Converters Based on Bayesian Regression
Authors: Liu Yanjun , Xue Yifan , Huang Shuting , Jing Qianfeng , Xue Gang
Published: September 2020

Establishing an accurate mathematical model is the foundation of simulating the motion of marine vehicles and structures, and it is the basis of modeling-based control design. System identification from observed input-output data is a practical and powerful method. However, for modeling objects with different characteristics and known information, a single modeling framework can hardly meet the requirements of model establishment. Moreover, there are some challenges in system identification, such as parameter drift and overfitting. In this work, three robust methods are proposed for generating ocean hydrodynamic models based on Bayesian regression. Two Bayesian techniques, semi-conjugate linear regression and noisy input Gaussian process regression, are used for parametric and nonparametric gray-box modeling and black-box modeling. The experimental free-running tests of the KVLCC2 ship model and a multi-freedom wave energy converter (WEC) are used to validate the proposed Bayesian models. The results demonstrate that the proposed schemes for system identification of the ship and WEC have good generalization ability and robustness. Finally, the developed modeling methods are evaluated considering the aspects required conditions, operating characteristics and prediction accuracy.
Pseudoaneurysm of the Posterior Humeral Circumflex Artery After Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty
Authors: Miwa Yuki , Matsumura Noboru , Suzuki Taku , Iwamoto Takuji , Nakamura Masaya , Matsumoto Morio
Published: September 2020

Case:

A 78-year-old woman with rheumatoid arthritis and a massive rotator cuff tear of the right shoulder was treated with reverse shoulder arthroplasty, but a pseudoaneurysm in the posterior humeral circumflex artery suddenly ruptured 7 months after surgery. Embolization of the pseudoaneurysm and skin treatment successfully relieved her symptoms without implant removal.

Conclusion:

Although a rare occurrence, vascular complication can occur after shoulder arthroplasty. The cause of the pseudoaneurysm was hypothesized to be repetitive contact between the humeral component and the artery and/or chronic traction of the blood vessel because of its chronic onset.
Bilateral Anterior Inferior Iliac Spine Avulsion Fractures in an Adolescent with Type I Osteogenesis Imperfecta
Authors: Cameron Joshuea , Wallace Maegen
Published: September 2020

Case:

A 13-year-old boy with known type I osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) presented with bilateral asynchronous anterior inferior iliac spine (AIIS) apophyseal avulsion fractures 6 weeks apart. Each happened while running. These were successfully treated nonoperatively, and he went on to heal.

Conclusion:

Apophyseal avulsion fractures in patients with OI have been reported in the literature around the elbow and knee; however, to the author's knowledge, this is the first report of an AIIS avulsion fracture in a patient with type I OI. The fractures were treated successfully nonoperatively with activity modification and healed well.
Herpes Zoster–Mediated Radiculitis After Lumbar Spine Surgery
Authors: Xará-Leite Francisco , Pinto Freitas Miguel , Rodrigues-Pinto Ricardo
Published: September 2020

Cases:

Two cases of herpetic neuralgia after lumbar fusion are reported. Although in one case the diagnosis was evident and treatment promptly initiated, the second exhibited a less typical presentation of neuralgia predating the cutaneous rash leading to a misdiagnosis of persistent nerve root stenosis, with additional surgeries and a longer hospital stay.

Conclusion:

The cases presented highlight why postoperative neuralgia should be approached carefully and systematically investigated. Although rare, postoperative neuralgia may occur as a consequence of postoperative herpes zoster infection. Failure to promptly diagnose this condition may lead to unnecessary surgery that has associated risks and morbidity.
Using Nominal Group Technique to Elucidate a COVID-19 Research Agenda for Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Populations
Authors: Ikedionwu Chioma A , Dongarwar Deepa , Yusuf Korede K , Maiyegun Sitratullah O. , Ibrahimi Sahra , Salihu Hamisu M.
Published: September 2020

As the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve, robust data describing its effect on maternal and child health (MCH) remains limited. The aim of this study was to elucidate an agenda for COVID-19 research with particular focus on its impact within MCH populations. This was achieved using the Nominal Group Technique through which researchers identified and ranked 12 research topics across various disciplines relating to MCH in the setting of COVID-19. Proposed research topics included vaccine development, genomics, and artificial intelligence among others. The proposed research priorities could serve as a template for a vigorous COVID-19 research agenda by the NIH and other national funding agencies in the US.

Key words: • COVID-19 • Coronavirus • Pandemics • Maternal and child health • MCH • Big data • Artificial intelligence

 

Copyright © 2020 Ikedionwu et al. Published by Global Health and Education Projects, Inc. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY 4.0) which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work, first published in this journal, is properly cited.
Reliability of Tibiofemoral Contact Area and Centroid Location in an Upright, Open MRI (UO-MRI)
Authors: Schmidt Andrew , Stockton David J. , Hunt Michael A. , Yung Andrew , Masri Bassam A. , Wilson David R.
Published: September 2020

Background: In biomechanical studies using conventional closed-bore MR, imaging cannot be performed during natural weightbearing which has necessitated simulating weightbearing load on the joint. Upright, open MRI (UO-MRI) allows for joint imaging during natural weightbearing and may have the potential to better characterize the biomechanical effect of tibiofemoral pathology involving soft tissues. However open MRI scanners have lower field strengths than closed-bore scanners, which limits the image quality that can be obtained. Thus, there is a need to establish the reliability of measurements in upright weightbearing postures obtained via the UO-MRI.Methods: Manual segmentation of cartilage regions in contact from participants with prior anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture was performed and centroids of those contact areas were automatically determined for the medial (MC) and lateral (LC) tibiofemoral compartments. To assess reliability, inter-rater, test-retest, and intra-rater reliability were determined by intra-class correlation (ICC3,1), standard error of measurement (SEM), smallest detectable change with 95% confidence (SDC95). Accuracy was assessed by using a high-resolution, 7T MRI as a reference and determined by mean absolute error (MAE).Results: Contact area and centroid location reliability (inter-rater, test-retest, and intra-rater) for sagittal scans in the MC demonstrated ICC3,1 values from 0.95-0.99 and 0.98-0.99 respectively, and in the LC from 0.83-0.91 and 0.95-1.00 respectively. The smallest detectable change in contact area was 1.28% in the MC and 0.95% in the LC. Contact area and centroid location reliability for coronal scans in the MC demonstrated ICC3,1 values from 0.90-0.98 and 0.98-1.00 respectively, and in the LC from 0.76-0.94 and 0.93-1.00 respectively. The smallest detectable change in contact area was 0.65% in the MC and 1.41% in the LC. Contact area segmentation was accurate to within a MAE of 11.0 mm2.Conclusions: Knee contact area and contact centroid location can be assessed in upright weightbearing MRI with good to excellent reliability. The lower field strength used in upright, weightbearing MRI does not compromise the reliability of tibiofemoral contact area and centroid location measures.
Pursue today and assess tomorrow - how students’ subjective perceptions influence their preference for self- and peer assessments
Authors: Melser Meskuere Capan , Lettner Stefan , Bäwert Andjela , Puttinger Claudia , Holzinger Anita
Published: September 2020

Background: Alternative assessments engage students in the assessment process to improve both short- and long-term outcomes by developing their judgments and responsibility about their own learning, and that of their peers. In this study, we investigated students’ perception towards self- and peer-assessment, their objectivity and impact on students’ learning. Methods: The study was conducted at the Medical University of Vienna. Attitudes of second year undergraduate medical students towards self- and peer-assessment, and their objectivity, appropriateness, and the impact of these assessments on students’ learning activities, was inquired using a self-developed questionnaire. Results: 423 students participated in this study. Self-assessment was found more appropriate method to assess students’ knowledge. Most of students agreed that peer-assessment is not objective (M= -0.07). Majority of students evaluated that peer assessment has no or little impact on their active and passive learning (M= -0.23, -0.35), on the other hand self-assessment was reported as a helpful tool for gaining long-term knowledge (M= 0.13) and following the content of courses (M= 0.16). Conclusion: Based on our results, students’ perspective on peer assessment were negative, on the whole, students had positive attitudes towards self-assessment and negative attitudes towards peer-assessment. This study also determined that self-assessment leads to the promotion of students’ learning.
Determinants for Choice of Home Birth over Health Facility Birth among Women of Reproductive Age in Tanzania: An Analysis of Data from the 2015-16 Tanzania Demographic and Health Survey and Malaria Indicator Survey
Authors: Moshi Fabiola Vincent , Mbotwa Christopher H.
Published: September 2020

Background: While evidence has shown an association between place of birth and birth outcomes, factors contributing to the choice of home birth have not been adequately investigated in Tanzania while more than 30% of deliveries occur outside of health care facilities, and more than 95% of those deliveries are assisted by non-medical providers who are often unskilled. The use of unskilled birth attendants has been cited as a factor contributing to the high maternal and neonatal mortalities in low-resources countries. This study aimed to identify determinants of choice for home birth over health care facility birth in Tanzania.Method: This study used the 2015-16 Tanzania Demographic and Health Survey and Malaria Indicator Survey (2015-16 TDHS-MIS) dataset. A total of 2286 women of reproductive age (15-49 years) who gave birth within one year preceding the survey were included in the analysis. Both univariate and multivariable regression analyses were used to determine predictors for the choice of home-based childbirth over health care facility delivery.Results: A total of 805 (35.2%) women had a home birth. After adjusting for confounders, the determinants for choice of home birth were: the level of education (primary education [AOR=0.666; p=0.001]; secondary and higher education [AOR=0.417; p<0.001]), in reference to no formal education; not owning a mobile phone (AOR= 1.312; p=0.018); parity (parity 2-4 [AOR=1.594; p=0.004], parity 5 and above [AOR=2.158; p<0.001] in reference to parity 1); inadequate antenatal visits (AOR=1.406; p=0.001); wealth index (poorest (AOR=9.395, p<0.001); poorer (AOR=7.701; p<0.001); middle (AOR=5.961; p<0.001); richer (AOR=2.557; p<0.001)] in reference to richest women; and Zones (Southern Highlands, [AOR=0.189; p<0.001]; Southern, [AOR=0.225; p<0.001]; Zanzibar, [AOR=2.55; p<0.001]) in reference to Western zone. Conclusion: A large proportion of women birth at home. Unskilled providers such as traditional birth attendants (TBAs), relatives or friends attend most of them. Predictors for home-based childbirth included lack of formal education, poor access to telecommunication, poor uptake of antenatal visits, low socio-economic status, and geographical zone. Innovative strategies targeting these groups are needed to increase the use of health care facilities for childbirth, thereby reducing maternal and neonatal mortality in Tanzania.
Intelligent Modularized Reconfigurable Mechanisms for Robots: Development and Experiment
Authors: Xu Wenfu , Han Liang , Wang Xin , Yuan Han , Liang Bin
Published: September 2020

With the development of intelligent flexible manufacturing, traditional industrial manipulators with a single configuration are difficult to meet a variety of tasks. Reconfigurable robots have developed rapidly which could change their configurations and end effectors for different tasks. The reconfigurable connecting mechanism (RCM) is a core component of reconfigurable robots. In this paper, two types of intelligent modularized RCMs with light weight, high payload, and large pose (position and attitude) error tolerance are developed. One is driven by shape memory alloy (SMA) and recovery spring. It is locked by steel balls and key. The other is driven by electromagnetic coil and locked by permanent magnet and key. The locking principle, mechanical system and control system of the two RCMs are detailed introduced. Both of them meet the requirements of high precision and high payload in the industrial field. Finally, the developed RCMs are respectively integrated to a practical robot and experimented. The experiment results verified the performance of the two RCMs.
Increased Vδ1 γδT cells Predominantly Contributed to IL-17 Production in the Development of Adult Human Post-infectious Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Authors: dong liwei , sun xiaoning , ma zhichao , fu jiao , liu fujin , huang baili , liang dongchun , sun deming , lan cheng
Published: September 2020

Background: γδT cells play an important role in the mucosa inflammation and immunity-associated disorders. Our previous study reported that γδT cells producing IL-17 were involved in the pathogenesis of post-infectious irritable bowel syndrome (PI-IBS). However, their subset characteristic profile in this kind of disease remains unclear. Thus the current study’s aim is to investigate the functionally predominant subset and its role in PI-IBS. Methods: The total T cells were collected from the peripheral blood of patients with PI-IBS. The peripheral proportion of Vδ1 and Vδ2 subset was detected by FACS after stained with anti δ1-PE and anti δ2-APC. The local colonic proportion of this two subsets were measured under laser confocal fluorescence microscope. Vδ1 γδT cells were enriched from the total peripheral T cells by minoantibody-immuno-microbeads (MACS) method. and cultured, functionally evaluated by CCK-8 assay (proliferation)，CD69/CD62L molecules expression assay (activation) and ELISA (IL-17 production) respectively. Results: 1. Vδ1 γδ T cells significantly increased while Vδ2 gd T cells remained unchanged in both the peripheral blood and local colonic tissue from PI-IBS patients (P<0.05). 2. When cultured in vitro, the Vδ1 gd T cells remarkably proliferated, activated and produced IL-17 (P<0.05）. Conclusions: Our results suggest that Vδ1 γδ T cells was the predominant γδ T cells subset in both peripheral and intestinal tissue, and was the major IL-17 producing γδ T cells in PI-IBS.
Somatic mutation detection efficiency in EGFR: a comparison between High Resolution Melting Analysis and Sanger Sequencing
Authors: Joy Reenu Anne , Thelakkattusserry Sukrishna Kamalasanan , Vikkath Narendranath , Bhaskaran Renjitha , Vasudevan Damodaran , Krishnan Sajitha , Ariyannur Prasanth S.
Published: September 2020

Background : High resolution melting curve analysis is a cost-effective rapid screening method for detection of somatic gene mutation. The performance characteristics of this technique has been explored previously, however, analytical parameters such as limit of detection of mutant allele fraction and total concentration of DNA, have not been addressed. The current study focuses on comparing the mutation detection efficiency of High-Resolution Melt Analysis (HRM) with Sanger Sequencing in somatic mutations of the EGFR gene in non-small cell lung cancer. Methods : The minor allele fraction of somatic mutations was titrated against total DNA concentration using Sanger sequencing and HRM to determine the limit of detection. The mutant and wildtype allele fractions were validated by multiplex allele-specific real-time PCR. Somatic mutation detection efficiency, for exons 19 & 21 of the EGFR gene, was compared in 116 formalin fixed paraffin embedded tumor tissues, after screening 275 tumor tissues by Sanger sequencing. Results : The limit of detection of minor allele fraction of exon 19 mutation was 1% with Sequencing, and 0.25% with HRM, whereas for exon 21 mutation, 0.25% MAF was detected using both methods. Multiplex allele-specific real-time PCR revealed that the wildtype DNA did not impede the amplification of mutant allele in mixed DNA assays. All mutation positive samples detected by Sanger sequencing, were also detected by HRM. About 28% cases in exon 19 and 40% in exon 21, detected as mutated in HRM, were not detected by sequencing. Overall, sensitivity and specificity of HRM were found to be 100% and 67% respectively, and the negative predictive value was 100%, while positive predictive value was 80%. Conclusion : The comparative series study suggests that HRM is a modest initial screening test for somatic mutation detection of EGFR , which must further be confirmed by Sanger sequencing. With the modification of annealing temperature of initial PCR, the limit of detection of Sanger sequencing can be improved.
The pathological features of hip abductor tendon tears – a cadaveric study
Authors: Zhu Mark , Smith Brittany , Krishna Sanjeev , Musson David S. , Riordan Peter R. , McGlashan Sue R. , Cornish Jillian , Munro Jacob T.
Published: September 2020

Background: The hip abductors are crucial in maintaining pelvic stability. Tears in these tendons are common and often debilitating. There is uncertainty regarding both the histological and macroscopic features of hip abductor tears. This study aims to clarify both the macroscopic and microscopic features of the tendon and enthesis in hip abductor tendon tears.Methods: Thirty-six cadavers with an average age of 81 were dissected, and the hip abductor mechanisms removed en-bloc. The presence, location and size of the tears were recorded and analysed. The samples were processed into histological blocks and viewed using both transmitted and polarised light. Tendon histology was graded using the modified Movin’s score in three sections (deep, middle and superficial layers) and the enthesis graded separately using 5-point criteria. Analysis of variance was used to confirm histological features associated with tears. Results: Tears were found in 24 of 36 samples (67%). The most common finding was an isolated tear in the gluteus minimus (46%), followed by concurrent gluteus medius and gluteus minimus tears (33%). Histology revealed significantly more degeneration in both the tendon (p=0.0005) and enthesis (p=0.0011) when tears were present. Furthermore, these changes were concentrated in the deeper layers of the tendon (p=0.0002) and enthesis (p=0.003). Conclusion: This study demonstrated degeneration as the primary pathology underlying hip abductor tendon tears. Degenerative changes occur in both the tendon and enthesis, with the deeper layers predominantly affected. These findings are important for guiding surgical repair techniques and to aid the development of novel materials and biologics.
EP300 Knockdown Reduces Cancer Stem Cell Phenotype, Tumor Growth and Metastasis in Triple Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Ring Alexander , Kaur Pushpinder , Lang Julie E.
Published: September 2020

Background: Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive breast cancer subtype with basal features, lacking the expression of receptors targeted successfully in other breast cancer subtypes. Treatment response to adjuvant and neoadjuvant chemotherapy is often short-lived and metastatic spread occurs at higher rates than other subtypes within the first five years after diagnosis. TNBCs exhibit stem cell features and are enriched for cancer stem cell (CSC) populations. E1A Binding Protein P300 (EP300) is a large protein with multiple cellular functions, including as an effector in stem cell biology.Methods: We used a genetic knockdown (KD) model of EP300 in TNBC cell lines to investigate the effect on CSC phenotype, tumor growth and metastasis. Side population assay and tumorsphere suspension culture were used in vitro. Xenograft mouse models were used for in vivo studies. We performed in silico analysis of publicly available gene expression data sets to investigate CSC gene expression and molecular pathways as well as survival outcomes associated with EP300 expression in patients with TNBC and basal-like BC.Results: EP300 KD abolished the CSC phenotype by reducing ABCG2 expression, side population cells and tumorsphere formation capacity in vitro as well as tumor formation in a xenograft mouse model in vivo. Metastatic capacity was markedly reduced in EP300 KD cells in vivo, with no detection of circulating tumor cells. TCGA data analysis demonstrated that genes positively correlated with EP300 expression in TNBC and basal-like BC were associated with CSC biology. Survival analysis demonstrated that EP300 expression predicts poor recurrence free survival in TNBC and basal BC.Conclusion: We report a novel oncogenic role for EP300 in driving CSC phenotype representing a potential target to address tumor initiation and metastatic spread in TNBC and basal-like BC. EP300 might serve as a prognostic marker and potential therapeutic target in TNBC.
Analysis across diverse fish species highlights no conserved transcriptome signature for proactive behaviour.
Authors: Planellas Sonia Rey , Jin Xingkun , Damsgard Borge , Begout Marie-Laure , Mackenzie Simon
Published: September 2020

Background Consistent individual differences in behaviour, known as animal personalities, have been demonstrated within and across species. In fish, studies applying an animal personality approach have been used to resolve variation in physiological and molecular data suggesting a linkage, genotype-phenotype, between behaviour and transcriptome regulation. In this study, using three fish species (zebrafish; Danio rerio, Atlantic salmon; Salmo salar and European sea bass; Dicentrarchus labrax), we firstly address whether personality-specific mRNA transcript abundances are transferrable across distantly-related fish species and secondly whether a proactive transcriptome signature is conserved across all three species. Results Previous zebrafish transcriptome data was used as a foundation to produce a curated list of mRNA transcripts related to animal personality across all three species. mRNA transcript copy numbers for selected gene targets show that differential mRNA transcript abundance in the brain appears to be partially conserved across species relative to personality type. Secondly, we performed RNA-Seq using whole brains from S. salar and D. labrax scoring positively for both behavioural and molecular assays for proactive behaviour. We further enriched this dataset by incorporating a zebrafish brain transcriptome dataset specific to the proactive phenotype. Our results indicate that cross-species molecular signatures related to proactive behaviour are functionally conserved where shared functional pathways suggest that evolutionary convergence may be more important than individual mRNAs. Conclusions Our data supports the proposition that highly polygenic clusters of genes, with small additive effects, likely support the underpinning molecular variation related to the animal personalities in the fish used in this study. The polygenic nature of the proactive brain transcriptome across all three species questions the existence of specific molecular signatures for proactive behaviour, at least at the granularity of specific regulatory gene modules, level of genes, gene networks and molecular functions.
A Web Based Dynamic MANA Nomogram for Predicting the Malignant Cerebral Edema in patients with large hemispheric infarction
Authors: Sun Wenzhe , Li Guo , Song Yang , Zhu Zhou , Yang Zhaoxia , Chen Yuxi , Miao Jinfeng , Song Xiaoyan , Lan Yan , Qiu Xiuli , Zhu Suiqiang , Fan Yebin
Published: September 2020

Background: For large hemispheric infarction (LHI), malignant cerebral edema (MCE) is a life-threatening complication with a mortality rate approaching 80%. Establishing a convenient prediction model of MCE after LHI is vital for the rapid identification of high-risk patients as well as for a better understanding of the potential mechanism underlying MCE.Methods: 142 consecutive patients with LHI within 24h of onset between January 1, 2016 and August 31, 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. MCE was defined as patient death or received decompressive hemicraniectomy (DHC) with obvious mass effect (≥ 5mm midline shift or Basal cistern effacement). Binary logistic regression was performed to identify independent predictors of MCE. Independent prognostic factors were incorporated to build a dynamic nomogram for MCE prediction.Results: After adjusting for confounders, four independent factors were identified, including previously known atrial fibrillation (KAF), midline shift (MLS), National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and anterior cerebral artery (ACA) territory involvement. To facilitate the nomogram use for clinicians, we used the “Dynnom” package to build a dynamic MANA (acronym for MLS, ACA territory involvement, NIHSS and KAF) nomogram on web (http://www.MANA-nom.com) to calculate the exact probability of developing MCE. The MANA nomogram’s C-statistic was up to 0.887 ± 0.041 and the AUC-ROC value in this cohort was 0.887 (95%CI, 0.828~0.934).Conclusions: Independent MCE predictors included KAF, MLS, NIHSS, and ACA territory involvement. The dynamic MANA nomogram is a convenient, practical and effective clinical decision-making tool for predicting MCE after LHI in Chinese patients.
Serial multiple mediation of the association between internet gaming disorder and suicidal ideation by insomnia and depression in adolescents in Shanghai, China
Authors: Yu Yuelin , Yang Xue , Wang Suping , Wang Huwen , Chang Ruijie , Tsamlag Lhakpa , Zhang Shuxian , Xu Chen , Yu Xiaoyue , Cai Yong , Lau Joseph TF
Published: September 2020

Background: High prevalence and strong relationships among suicidal ideation, Internet gaming disorder (IGD), insomnia, and depression have been reported for adolescents worldwide, but the mechanism underlying these psychological problems remains unclear. This cross-sectional study explored the mediating effect of insomnia and depression on the association between IGD and suicidal ideation.Methods: Participants were 1,066 adolescents (median age= 13.0 years) with Internet games exposure in the previous 12 months from junior high schools in Shanghai, China. Questionnaire measures of suicidal ideation, IGD, insomnia, depressive symptoms, and background characteristics were obtained. Path analysis was conducted to test the multiple mediating roles of insomnia and depression.Results: Suicidal ideation, IGD, insomnia, and depression prevalence was 27.2%, 13.6%, 9.2%, and 17.0%, respectively. A serial multiple mediation model was generated. The mediation effect of insomnia and depression on the pathway from IGD to suicidal ideation was 45.5% (direct effect: standardized estimate [Std. estimate] = 0.186; total indirect effect: Std. estimate = 0.155). The association between IGD and depression was partially mediated by insomnia (direct effect: Std. estimate = 0.211; indirect effect: Std. estimate = 0.135). The proposed model fit the data well.Conclusions: Insomnia and depression may serially mediate the association between IGD and suicidal ideation. IGD was positively associated with insomnia, then with depression, which in turn positively contributed to suicidal ideation. We suggest greater monitoring of Internet use and prevention of insomnia and depression to mitigate the risk of suicidal ideation among Chinese adolescents.
Manganese-enhanced MRI depicts a reduction in brain response to nociception upon mTOR inhibition in chronic pain rats
Authors: Cha Myeounghoon , Choi Songyeon , Kim Kyeongmin , Lee Bae Hwan
Published: September 2020

Neuropathic pain induced by a nerve injury can lead to chronic pain. Recent studies have reported hyperactive neural activities in the nociceptive-related area of the brain as a result of chronic pain. Although cerebral activities associated with hyperalgesia and allodynia in chronic pain models are difficult to represent with functional imaging techniques, advances in manganese (Mn)-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MEMRI) could facilitate the visualization of the activation of pain-specific neural responses in the cerebral cortex. In order to investigate the alleviation of pain nociception by mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) modulation, we observed cerebrocortical excitability changes and compared regional Mn 2+ enhancement after mTOR inhibition. At day 7 after nerve injury, drugs were applied into the intracortical area, and drug (Vehicle, Torin1, and XL388) effects were compared within groups using MEMRI. Therein, signal intensities of the insular cortex (IC), primary somatosensory cortex of the hind limb region, motor cortex 1/2, and anterior cingulate cortex regions were significantly reduced after application of mTOR inhibitors (Torin1 and XL388). Furthermore, rostral-caudal analysis of the IC indicated that the rostral region of the IC was more strongly associated with pain perception than the caudal region. Our data suggest that MEMRI can depict pain-related signal changes in the brain and that mTOR inhibition is closely correlated with pain modulation in chronic pain rats.