bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Complex assessment of bone mineral density, fracture risk, vitamin D status, and bone metabolism in Hungarian systemic sclerosis patients
Authors: Horváth Ágnes , Végh Edit , Pusztai Anita , Pethő Zsófia , Hamar Attila , Czókolyová Monika , Bhattoa Harjit Pal , Nagy Gábor , Juhász Balázs , Hodosi Katalin , Domján Andrea , Szekanecz Zoltán , Szücs Gabriella , Szamosi Szilvia
Published: December 2019

Objective

We wished to determine bone alterations in systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients by conventional densitometry (DXA), peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT), and bone biomarkers.

Methods

We included 44 SSc patients and 33 age-matched healthy controls. Lumbar spine and femoral neck bone mineral density (BMD) was assessed by DXA. Volumetric BMD was measured by pQCT at the radius. FRAX, 25-hydroxyvitamin-D3 (25-OH-D3), parathyroid hormone, osteocalcin, C-terminal collagen telopeptide, and procollagen type I amino-terminal propeptide were also assessed.

Results

SSc patients had lower L2–4 BMD (0.880 ± 0.108 vs. 0.996 ± 0.181 g/cm2; p = 0.019) and femoral neck (FN) BMD (0.786 ± 0.134 vs. 0.910 ± 0.090 g/cm2; p = 0.007) by DXA. In SSc vs. controls, pQCT indicated lower mean cortical (328.03 ± 103.32 vs. 487.06 ± 42.45 mg/cm3; p < 0.001) and trabecular density (150.93 ± 61.91 vs. 184.76 ± 33.03 mg/cm3; p = 0.037). Vitamin D3 deficiency was more common in SSc vs. controls (60.0% vs. 39.3%; p = 0.003). L2–4 (p = 0.002) and FN BMD (p = 0.015) positively correlated with BMI. pQCT assessments confirmed an inverse correlation between pulmonary manifestation and total (p = 0.024), trabecular (p = 0.035), and cortical density (p = 0.015). Anti-Scl70 positivity inversely correlated with pQCT total density (p = 0.015) and the presence of digital ulcers with cortical density (p = 0.001). We also found that vertebral and FN BMD as determined by DXA significantly correlated with pQCT total, trabecular, and cortical density (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The results of our study suggest that bone loss in SSc patients may be associated with lower BMI, anti-Scl70 positivity, and the presence of pulmonary manifestations and digital ulcers. Both DXA and pQCT are appropriate tools to evaluate the bone alterations in SSc patients.
Upper and lower solution method for Hilfer fractional evolution equations with nonlocal conditions
Authors: Gou Haide , Li Yongxiang
Published: December 2019

This paper is concerned with the existence of extremal mild solutions for Hilfer fractional evolution equations with nonlocal conditions in an ordered Banach spaceE. By employing the method of lower and upper solutions, the measure of noncompactness, and Sadovskii’s fixed point theorem, we obtain the existence of extremal mild solutions for Hilfer fractional evolution equations with noncompact semigroups. Finally, an example is provided to illustrate the feasibility of our main results.
Numerical solution of nonlinear stochastic Itô–Volterra integral equations based on Haar wavelets
Authors: Wu Jieheng , Jiang Guo , Sang Xiaoyan
Published: December 2019

In this paper, an efficient numerical method is presented for solving nonlinear stochastic Itô–Volterra integral equations based on Haar wavelets. By the properties of Haar wavelets and stochastic integration operational matrixes, the approximate solution of nonlinear stochastic Itô–Volterra integral equations can be found. At the same time, the error analysis is established. Finally, two numerical examples are offered to testify the validity and precision of the presented method.
The multi-faceted functioning portrait of LRF/ZBTB7A
Authors: Constantinou Caterina , Spella Magda , Chondrou Vasiliki , Patrinos George P. , Papachatzopoulou Adamantia , Sgourou Argyro
Published: December 2019

Transcription factors (TFs) consisting of zinc fingers combined with BTB (for broad-complex, tram-track, and bric-a-brac) domain (ZBTB) are a highly conserved protein family that comprises a multifunctional and heterogeneous group of TFs, mainly modulating cell developmental events and cell fate. LRF/ZBTB7A, in particular, is reported to be implicated in a wide variety of physiological and cancer-related cell events. These physiological processes include regulation of erythrocyte maturation, B/T cell differentiation, adipogenesis, and thymic insulin expression affecting consequently insulin self-tolerance. In cancer, LRF/ZBTB7A has been reported to act either as oncogenic or as oncosuppressive factor by affecting specific cell processes (proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, migration, metastasis, etc) in opposed ways, depending on cancer type and molecular interactions. The molecular mechanisms via which LRF/ZBTB7A is known to exert either physiological or cancer-related cellular effects include chromatin organization and remodeling, regulation of the Notch signaling axis, cellular response to DNA damage stimulus, epigenetic-dependent regulation of transcription, regulation of the expression and activity of NF-κB and p53, and regulation of aerobic glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation (Warburg effect). It is a pleiotropic TF, and thus, alterations to its expression status become detrimental for cell survival. This review summarizes its implication in different cellular activities and the commonly invoked molecular mechanisms triggered by LRF/ZBTB7A’s orchestrated action.
Distal bypass with a varicose vein graft for critical limb ischemia: report of a case
Authors: Guntani Atsushi , Yoshiga Ryosuke , Mii Shinsuke
Published: December 2019

Background

A saphenous vein complicated with varicose veins is generally thought to be unsuitable for bypass grafting.

Case presentation

A patient who developed sepsis due to lower limb gangrene was successfully treated by endovascular treatment and bypass surgery using a varicose vein graft. There were no complications, such as occlusion or aneurysm, of the varicose vein graft during the 2-year follow-up period.

Conclusions

We herein report a case in which bypass surgery with a varicose vein graft was used to avoid major amputation of the lower limb, and the patient recovered markedly from sepsis. If there are no other appropriate autologous veins for revascularization of lower limb gangrene, a varicose vein graft may be useful as a conduit for bypass surgery at risk of graft infection.
Cognitive-behavioural therapy for the management of inflammatory bowel disease-fatigue: a feasibility randomised controlled trial
Authors: Artom Micol , Czuber-Dochan Wladyslawa , Sturt Jackie , Proudfoot Hannah , Roberts Danniella , Norton Christine
Published: December 2019

Background

Fatigue is the third most prevalent symptom for patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), yet optimal strategies for its management are unclear. Treatment protocols for fatigue in other conditions have been based on cognitive-behavioural models. Targeting cognitions, emotions and behaviour related to fatigue through cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) may be a viable option to improve fatigue and quality of life (QoL) in IBD.

Methods

This single centre, two-arm, feasibility randomised controlled trial (RCT) aimed to assess the feasibility and initial estimates of potential efficacy of a CBT intervention for the management of IBD-fatigue. Feasibility, acceptability and initial estimates of potential efficacy outcomes were collected through self-report measures and semi-structured interviews. Participants were recruited from one tertiary referral centre. Intervention Group 1 received a CBT manual for fatigue, one 60-min and seven 30-min telephone sessions with a therapist over 8-weeks. Control Group 2 received a fatigue information sheet without therapist support. A nested qualitative study evaluated patients’ and therapists’ experiences, and IBD-healthcare professionals’ (HCPs) perceptions of the intervention.

Results

Eighty-nine participants were assessed for eligibility. Of these, 31 of the 70 eligible participants consented to participate (recruitment rate of 44%). Of the 15 participants randomised to the intervention group, 13 (87%) started it and 10 (77% of those who started) completed all 8 sessions. Follow-up questionnaires were completed by 22 (71%) participants at 3 months, 14 (45%) at 6 months and 12 (39%) at 12 months’ follow-up. The intervention was acceptable to participants and feasible for therapists to deliver. HCPs reported that the intervention would be applicable, but time, finance and training constraints limit its implementation. Initial estimates of potential efficacy with complete case analysis showed a reduction in fatigue and an increase in QoL at 3, 6 and 12 months post-randomisation.

Conclusions

A full-scale effectiveness RCT testing CBT for IBD-fatigue is feasible and is potentially worthwhile with some changes to the protocol. However, given the small numbers, further pilot work is warranted before a full-scale RCT.

Trial registration

Registration Trial ISRCTN 17917944, Registered 2 September 2016
Association between ACTN3 and acute mountain sickness
Authors: Bottura Ricardo Muller , Lima Giscard Humberto Oliveira , Hipolide Debora Cristina , Pesquero João Bosco
Published: December 2019

Background

During the process of acclimatization, when our organism needs to adjust several metabolic processes in the attempt of establishing a better oxygenation, it is normal that individuals present some symptoms that can lead to the disease of the mountain. However, not everyone presents such symptoms and individuals native of high altitudes regions present genetic differences compared to natives of low altitudes which can generate a better acute adaptation. One of these differences is the higher proportion of type I muscle fibers, which may originate from the R577X polymorphism of theACTN3gene. The aim of this study was to compare the response of individuals with differentACTN3genotypes at simulated 4500 m altitude on the presence of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) symptoms. Twenty-three volunteers (RR = 7, RX = 8, XX = 8) spent 4 hours exposed to a simulated altitude of 4500 m inside a normobaric hypoxia chamber. Lactate and glucose concentrations, SpO2, heart rate and the symptoms of AMS were analyzed immediately before entering the chamber and at each hour of exposure. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics 21 software.

Results

Our results point to an association between AMS symptoms and the presence of R allele from R577X polymorphism.

Conclusion

We conclude that individuals with at least one R allele of the R577X polymorphism seems to be more susceptible to the effects of hypoxia during the acclimatization process and may develop AMS symptoms.
A high likelihood of increase in end-stage renal disease among the Japanese HIV-infected population
Authors: Ando Minoru , Ando Yoko
Published: December 2019

Kidneys are affected by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and its associated therapies. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) has markedly reduced acquired immune deficiency syndrome–related deaths and opportunistic infectious diseases among HIV-infected patients. This contributed to their prolonged survival; however, the improvement in survival has been accompanied by an increase in the incidence of non-infectious chronic complications, including hypertension, metabolic diseases, and chronic kidney disease (CKD). Recent studies showed that estimated prevalence of any CKD and end-stage renal disease (ESRD) among HIV-infected patients is approximately 20% and 0.5%, respectively, in Japan. Both a rapid decrease in renal function and a high positive rate of albuminuria and proteinuria are clinical characteristics of HIV-infected patients. Moreover, considering higher complication rates of hypertension and diabetes compared with non-HIV-infected individuals of the similar aging, HIV-infected patients who develop CKD and ESRD are very likely to increase. Furthermore, as the survival rate is favorable after the initiation of dialysis, the cumulative number of ESRD patients is supposed to increase. The corporation for treatment of HIV-positive hemodialysis patients by general dialysis clinics will be urgently required; however, there still remain some preoccupations and prejudices about HIVper sein Japan, which may provoke hesitation from accepting those patients.
Two-dimensional ultrasound: can it replace computed tomography in liver volume assessment?
Authors: Farghaly Shimaa , Makboul Marwa , Shehata Mahmoud Refaat
Published: December 2019

Background

Liver volume estimation is considered as an integral part in preoperative evaluation in patients undergoing liver transplantation; computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging are considered the gold standard methods for liver volume estimation, and both are reliable and valid in determination of liver volume via manual and semi-automated methods. Reliable and accurate set of three simple measurement planes using two-dimensional ultrasound for volumetric assessment of liver was determined, and predictive equation using these three simple measurements was performed, which is simple to perform and easy to calculate, in order to evaluate liver volume and validate these measurements against CT images. Our aim in this study was to evaluate the efficacy and validity of two-dimensional ultrasound in liver volume estimation compared to CT volumetry as a gold standard.

Results

A strong linear positive correlation with no statistical significant difference was found between 2D US and semi-automated CT volumetric, and result was r = 0.7402 and p > 0.05, with an average liver volume of 1572.10 (± 326.43) cm3 and 1559.30 (± 381.02) cm3 respectively.

No statistically significant difference was found also between the two modalities in different age groups and different sexes.

Conclusion

Simple linear two-dimensional ultrasound could be considered an efficient, accurate, and trustable tool for liver volume measurement in clinical practice.
The velocity-stress finite-difference method with a rotated staggered grid applied to seismic wave propagation in a fractured medium
Authors: Wang Kang , Peng Suping , Lu Yongxu , Cui Xiaoqin
Published: December 2019

To enable a mathematical description, geologic fractures are considered as infinitely thin planes embedded in a homogeneous medium. These fracture structures satisfy linear slip boundary conditions, namely, a discontinuous displacement and continuous stress. The general finite-difference (FD) method described by the elastic wave equations has challenges when attempting to simulate the propagation of waves at the fracture interface. The FD method expressed by velocity-stress variables with the explicit application of boundary conditions at the fracture interface facilitates the simulation of wave propagation in fractured discontinuous media that are described by elastic wave equations and linear slip interface conditions. We have developed a new FD scheme for horizontal and vertical fracture media. In this scheme, a fictitious grid is introduced to describe the discontinuous velocity at the fracture interface and a rotated staggered grid is used to accurately indicate the location of the fracture. The new FD scheme satisfies nonwelded contact boundary conditions, unlike traditional approaches. Numerical simulations in different fracture media indicate that our scheme is accurate. The results demonstrate that the reflection coefficient of the fractured interface varies with the incident angle, wavelet frequency, and normal and tangential fracture compliances. Our scheme and conclusions from this study will be useful in assessing the properties of fractures, enabling the proper delineation of fractured reservoirs.
Innovative boat-towed transient electromagnetics — Investigation of the Furnas volcanic lake hydrothermal system, Azores
Authors: Yogeshwar Pritam , Küpper Mira , Tezkan Bülent , Rath Volker , Kiyan Duygu , Byrdina Svetlana , Cruz José , Andrade César , Viveiros Fatima
Published: December 2019

Water-covered areas may lead to gaps in surface electromagnetic surveys, causing reduced resolution and, as a consequence, increased uncertainty in derived subsurface models. We have evaluated a boat-towed floating central loop time-domain electromagnetic technique that mitigates this problem. It facilitates obtaining data with a spatial sampling density, which is rarely possible with standard instrumentation on land, and it only requires moderate logistical effort. A unique field study on a shallow volcanic lake demonstrated that this method is feasible with only a minor loss of accuracy when compared to anchored and land soundings. We found that the noise sources arising from the moving instrument and the boat engine can be neglected. The field survey was performed on the Lagoa das Furnas (São Miguel, Azores Islands, Portugal), which is located within an active volcanic area and is characterized by fumarolic fields and [Formula: see text] degassing. Thus, the associated hydrothermal system is expected to extend below the lake. However, the character, geometry, and extent of this system are unknown because of the lack of boreholes and geophysical studies. In total, 600 soundings, combining towed profiles with anchored and land-based soundings, were acquired with an aim of imaging the hydrothermal system beneath the lake down to 200 m. The results from all three types of measurements compare well and thus led to consistent 1D inversion models. The inversion results delineate a highly conductive, smectite-rich cap layer dipping below the lake away from the main fumarole zone. Near this zone, the extent of the conductor agrees well with an area of intense dispersed [Formula: see text] degassing, which appears to be controlled by at least two electrically distinctive fault zones in which the conductor is found at greater depths.
An integrated broadband preprocessing method for towed-streamer seismic data
Authors: Aharchaou Mehdi , Neumann Erik
Published: December 2019

Broadband preprocessing has become widely used for marine towed-streamer seismic data. In the standard workflow, far-field source designature, receiver and source-side deghosting, and redatuming to mean sea level are applied in sequence, with amplitude compensation for background [Formula: see text] delayed until the imaging or postmigration stages. Thus, each step is likely to generate its own artifacts, quality checking can be time-consuming, and broadband data are only obtained late in this chained workflow. We have developed a unified method for broadband preprocessing — called integrated broadband preprocessing (IBP) — which enables the joint application of all the above listed steps early in the processing sequence. The amplitude, phase, and amplitude-variation-with-offset fidelity of IBP are demonstrated on pressure data from the shallow, deep, and slanted streamers. The integration allows greater sparsity to emerge in the representation of seismic data, conferring clear benefits over the sequential application. Moreover, time sparsity, full dimensionality, and early amplitude [Formula: see text] compensation all have an impact on broadband data quality, in terms of reduced ringing artifacts, improved wavelet integrity at large crossline angles, and fewer residual high-frequency multiples.
Activating Mutations of the G-protein Subunit α 11 Interdomain Interface Cause Autosomal Dominant Hypocalcemia Type 2
Authors: Gorvin Caroline M , Stokes Victoria J , Boon Hannah , Cranston Treena , Glück Anna K , Bahl Shailini , Homfray Tessa , Aung Theingi , Shine Brian , Lines Kate E , Hannan Fadil M , Thakker Rajesh V
Published: December 2019

Context

Autosomal dominant hypocalcemia types 1 and 2 (ADH1 and ADH2) are caused by germline gain-of-function mutations of the calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) and its signaling partner, the G-protein subunit α 11 (Gα 11), respectively. More than 70 different gain-of-function CaSR mutations, but only 6 different gain-of-function Gα 11 mutations are reported to date.

Methods

We ascertained 2 additional ADH families and investigated them for CaSR and Gα 11 mutations. The effects of identified variants on CaSR signaling were evaluated by transiently transfecting wild-type (WT) and variant expression constructs into HEK293 cells stably expressing CaSR (HEK-CaSR), and measuring intracellular calcium (Ca2+i) and MAPK responses following stimulation with extracellular calcium (Ca2+e).

Results

CaSR variants were not found, but 2 novel heterozygous germline Gα 11 variants, p.Gly66Ser and p.Arg149His, were identified. Homology modeling of these revealed that the Gly66 and Arg149 residues are located at the interface between the Gα 11 helical and GTPase domains, which is involved in guanine nucleotide binding, and this is the site of 3 other reported ADH2 mutations. The Ca2+i and MAPK responses of cells expressing the variant Ser66 or His149 Gα 11 proteins were similar to WT cells at low Ca2+e, but significantly increased in a dose-dependent manner following Ca2+e stimulation, thereby indicating that the p.Gly66Ser and p.Arg149His variants represent pathogenic gain-of-function Gα 11 mutations. Treatment of Ser66- and His149-Gα 11 expressing cells with the CaSR negative allosteric modulator NPS 2143 normalized Ca2+i and MAPK responses.

Conclusion

Two novel ADH2-causing mutations that highlight the Gα 11 interdomain interface as a hotspot for gain-of-function Gα 11 mutations have been identified.
A biphasic role of non-canonical Wnt16 signaling during early anterior-posterior patterning and morphogenesis of the sea urchin embryo
Authors: Martínez-Bartolomé Marina , Range Ryan C.
Published: December 2019

A Wnt signaling network governs early anterior-posterior (AP) specification and patterning of the deuterostome sea urchin embryo. We have previously shown that non-canonical Fzl1/2/7 signaling antagonizes the progressive posterior-to-anterior downregulation of the anterior neuroectoderm (ANE) gene regulatory network (GRN) by canonical Wnt/β-catenin and non-canonical Wnt1/Wnt8-Fzl5/8-JNK signaling. This study focuses on the non-canonical function of the Wnt16 ligand during early AP specification and patterning. Maternally supplied wnt16 is expressed ubiquitously during cleavage and zygotic wnt16 expression is concentrated in the endoderm/mesoderm beginning at mid-blastula stage. Wnt16 antagonizes the ANE restriction mechanism and this activity depends on a functional Fzl1/2/7 receptor. Our results also show that zygotic wnt16 expression depends on both Fzl5/8 and Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Furthermore, Wnt16 is necessary for the activation and/or maintenance of key regulatory endoderm/mesoderm genes and is essential for gastrulation. Together, our data show that Wnt16 has two functions during early AP specification and patterning: (1) an initial role activating the Fzl1/2/7 pathway that antagonizes the ANE restriction mechanism; and (2) a subsequent function in activating key endoderm GRN factors and the morphogenetic movements of gastrulation.
Thalassotherapy today
Authors: MUNTEANU Constantin , MUNTEANU Diana
Published: December 2019

Introduction. Thalassotherapy has many aspects in common with thermalism or balneotherapy but also some distinctive characteristics. Balneology has a long European and Asian tradition and Romania can be the cornerstone of international bridges in this area due to its geographical position, legendary tradition and extraordinary natural resources of all kind. Each Balneary Resort begins its story with the discovery of natural factors whose therapeutical value has been clinically and experimentally proven by scientific personalities of that time. (1). Material and method. This article is a systematic and summarizing review of all published articles related to the thalassotherapy and thermal medicine subject found in Web of Science Core Collection. The methodological work is focused on the development of a bibliometric study of the literature generated regarding “thalassotherapy” therm. The analysis process followed integrates the use of descriptive-quantitative statistical techniques, which constitute a series of bibiliometric indicators that allow explore the research dynamics followed so far by the scientific community. These bibliometric indicators are numerical data that enable the analysis of diverse features of the scientific activity, linked both to the production and consumption of information and are based on the so-called “bibliometric laws”. Results and discussions. Analyzing an article database can be of real impact on the development of the field of Thalassotherapy but also can drive the future implications in the scientific arena. Conclusions. In balneary tourism, the importance of researching natural resources is essential for the development of a balneary resort promotion plan, thus providing information on the therapeutic properties of natural factors, their contribution to our health and the biological mechanisms by which they act on our body.
Rehabilitation of unstable knee in osteoarthritis
Authors: CRISTEA Florentina , GHERGHEL Robert , ONU Ilie
Published: December 2019

Knee instability is a common condition found in degenerative knee osteoarthritis. The evolution of the disease is a chronic one, with acute exacerbations that accentuate the static and dynamic deterioration of the knee joint. Women are more susceptible in 70% - 80% of cases, with an increased frequency after menopause, between 40 to 70 years, being often associated with obesity and varicose veins. Starting from these data and then extrapolating with the increased number of people coming to treatment with this condition, we considered that a more in-depth study theoretically, but especially practical, in terms of the effectiveness of physiotherapy treatment is slowing down the evolution of the disease. Based on the objectives we presented earlier, we are determined to focus our efforts on this category of patients, and through our study we try to find new ways to reduce the suffering of the patients and to ensure the sustainability of the obtained results.
Possibilities of using natural mineral waters in the treatment of patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: GUSHCHA Sergey , DRAGOMIRETSKA Natalia , ZABOLOTNA Iryna , NASIBULLIN Boris , IZHA Anna , ВADIUK Natalia , KOIEVA Khrystyna
Published: December 2019

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a chronic pathology that is increasingly diagnosed in different countries. The pathogenesis of NAFLD associated with insulin resistance, abdominal obesity, atherogenic dyslipidemia, arterial hypertension, endothelial dysfunction, impaired adipokine secretion, that is, components of metabolic syndrome. Treatment of NAFLD should be comprehensive and lengthy, although there are no standardized approaches to the treatment of NAFLD. Meanwhile, drug therapy carries certain risks: the development of serious adverse reactions with prolonged use. The work highlights modern views on the etiology, epidemiology, pathogenesis, drug and non-drug treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Experimental and clinical studies on the mechanism of biological action, the effects of using different in composition and mineralization of mineral waters on the course of NAFLD had presented. Based on experimental and clinical studies, ideas about the specificity of the action of mineral waters of various balneological types and mineralization on the clinical course of NAFLD at different stages of the disease, the effect on the functional state of the liver, and the dynamics of lipid and carbohydrate metabolism had detailed. It is concluded that mineral waters could be successfully used in the complex treatment of NAFLD patients.
Perspectives of inpatient neurological rehabilitation in elderly patients
Authors: MUREȘAN Dorin Alexandru , STĂNESCU Ioana , BULBOACĂ Adriana Elena , FODOR Dana Marieta , BULBOACĂ Alexandra Ina
Published: December 2019

Demographic data record an increasing number of people aged over 65 years, with specific health conditions and a high probability to suffer from chronic diseases, cognitive impairment or loss of autonomy, and with limited functional reserve. The prevalence of disability increases with age, affecting 33% of men and 42% of women aged over 85 years. Many neurodegenerative disorders increase in prevalence with age. Thus, the need for rehabilitation treatment in this segment of population is very high, loss of functioning being the most prominent condition for admitting elderly persons in rehabilitation facilities. Rehabilitation in the elderly is an important tool in regaining autonomy, associated with substantial reduction in the burden of health and social costs. Patients aged over 80 years need a comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) to establish the global capabilities of the person for inclusion in a coordinated therapy plan and a long term follow-up. CGA will identify patients with severe or complicated medical conditions and important disability who require a multidisciplinary team and a coordinated rehabilitation program, accessible only in rehabilitation hospitals. Rehabilitation treatment should start from the intensive care unit, and continues until the patient reaches a plateau of maximal functional improvement. The most useful therapeutic interventions in old people are physical and occupational therapy, and, for selected and stable patients, therapy in a balnear resort is an option to improve their quality of life.

Key words: geriatric population, rehabilitation, loss of autonomy, old patients,
Molecular analysis of Peste des Petits Ruminants Virus from outbreak in Turkey during 2010-2012
Authors: SAIT A. , DAGALP S.B.
Published: December 2019

The aim of the study is to determine the epizootiology of Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) in Turkey during 2010-2012, using molecular genotyping. Samples of blood (n=193), swab (n=7) and tissue (n=374) were collected from sheep (n=473) and goats (n=101) suspected of having PPRV infection from an outbreak in 50 provinces of Turkey during 2010–2012. These samples (n=574) were tested using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and real-time reverse transcriptionpolymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) targeting selected parts of the fusion (F) and the nucleocapsid (N) genes. Positivity ratios were 35.5%, 39.3%, and 44.4% with regards to RT-PCR targeting the F and the N genes, and RT-Qpcr targeting the latter gene (N), respectively. The overall positivity rate was 45.8%. For sequence analyses, F-gene (n=53) and N-gene (n=60) positive samples representing different provinces were selected. After phylogenetic analysis, the circulating PPRV was located in lineage IV according to two gene regions. The F-gene partial sequence analysis at the nucleotide level showed 98.2-100% resemblence among 53 for F-gene, and 97.9-98.9% and 91.3-92.4% to Turkey2000 and Nigeria75/1 sequences, respectively. The N-gene partial sequence analysis at the nucleotide level showed 94.2-100% resemblence among 60 for N-gene, and 94.2-98.3% and 89.3-90.9% to Turkey2000 and Nigeria75/1 sequences, respectively. The result of this study indicates that PPRV infection is enzootic in Turkey, and belongs to the lineage IV, which is present in three haplogroup. The phylogenic analysis indicates the spread of the virus is associated with unauthorized movement of stock.
Risk assessment of mercury and methyl mercury intake via sardine and swordfish consumption in Algeria
Authors: MEHOUEL F. , BOUAYAD L. , BERBER A. , VAN HAUTEGHEM I. , VAN DE WIELE M.
Published: December 2019

Total mercury (Hg) and methylmercury (MeHg) concentrations in the flesh of sardine (Sardina pilchardus) and swordfish (Xiphias gladius) fished in three Algerian coasts were determined by a direct mercury analyzer (DMA). We also assessed the risk to which the consumer was exposed to by calculating the estimated daily intakes (EDIs), target hazard quotient (THQ) and hazard index (HI). The average concentrations of Hg and MeHg in the flesh of sardine were similar (0.04 mg/kg wet weight) and in swordfish were 0.61 mg/kg wet weight; 0.57 mg/kg wet weight, respectively. These concentrations have not surpassed the thresholds set by the Algerian and European regulations. The estimated daily intakes for Hg and MeHg were similar in sardine (0.0064 μg/kg/day) and were 0.098 μg/kg/day and 0.092 μg/kg/day for Hg and MeHg, respectively, in swordfish. These values did not exceed the provisional tolerable weekly intake (PTWI) established by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA). The target hazard quotient (THQ) and the hazard index (HI) calculated were < 1. Consequently, consumption of these fishes does not pose any risk for the adult groups of the Algerian population regarding mercury, and methylmercury studied.
Effects of olive pulp addition to broiler diets on performance, selected biochemical parameters and antioxidant enzymes
Authors: PAPPAS A.C. , TSIPLAKOU E. , PAPADOMICHELAKIS G. , MITSIOPOULOU C. , SOTIRAKOGLOU K. , MPEKELIS V. , HAROUTOUNIAN S.A. , FEGEROS K. , ZERVAS G.
Published: December 2019

Olive oil production generates various by-products that can be used in animal nutrition. These by-products contain several polyphenolic compounds that may exhibit antioxidant properties. The present study was designed to evaluate the effects of adding olive pulp to the feed on broiler performance, carcass yield and antioxidant enzymes. Two hundred (200), as hatched, day-old, Cobb 500 broilers were reared in total for 42 days. There were 4 dietary treatments. In T1 treatment, no olive pulp was added to starter, grower and finisher diet. In T2 treatment, olive pulp was added to starter, grower and finisher diet at a level of 0, 2.5 and 5% respectively. In T3 treatment, olive pulp was added to starter, grower and finisher diet at a level of 0, 5 and 5% respectively. In T4 treatment, olive pulp was added to starter, grower and finisher diet at a level of 0, 5 and 8% respectively. Performance, carcass yield and a number of biochemical parameters were examined. Oleuropein and hydroxytyrosol were present in the olive pulp at 952 and 216 mg/kg respectively. Broilers performed well and no differences were observed between treatments on final body weight, carcass yield, total antioxidant activity and expression of selected antioxidant enzymes. Discriminant analysis was further applied and revealed that samples clustered according to added level of olive pulp. Samples from broilers fed T2 and T3 diet were located in the middle of the plot away from other treatments exhibiting high values of carcass, breast yield and most of the antioxidant enzyme activities. In conclusion, olive pulp can be used up to 5% in diets of broilers and future studies conducted on-farm conditions may pronounce its impact on growth performance and antioxidant potential.
Some oxidative stress parameters in heart tissue of Zebrafish (Danio reiro) caused by mancozeb
Authors: Esin Kayhan Figen , Kaymak Güllü , Esmer Duruel Harika Eylül , Kızılkaya Şeyma
Published: December 2019

The potential toxic effects of mancozeb exposure on some antioxidant enzyme were investigated on heart tissue of zebrafish in this study. Zebrafish groups were exposed to different doses of mancozeb (Group A: 5 mgL-1 and Group B: 7.5 mgL-1) for 120 hours. In this study, catalase (CAT) activity, malondialdehyde (MDA) level and total protein (TP) level were determined with spectrophotometer. Our results showed that CAT activity was found 2,541±0,771 mg L-1 in A group and 2,011±0,201 mg L-1 in B group in this study. CAT and MDA activity levels decreased in the experiment group according to control group. MDA levels were found 0,025±0,003 mg L-1 in A group and 0,025±0,003 mg L-1 in B group. TP levels were found 9,75±1,51 mg L-1 in A group and 10,18±0,32 mg L-1 in B group. TP levels increased in the all experiment groups according to control group. We observed that the changes in the CAT activity and MDA levels were time and as well as mancozeb dose dependent. As a result mancozeb is a very toxic substance for zebrafish and other aquatic organisms.
New records of halacarid mites (Acari: Halacaridae) from the Levantine coast of Turkey
Authors: Durucan Furkan
Published: December 2019

This paper reports on six marine halacarid species collected from the coasts of Antalya (3 stations) and Mersin (1 station), Turkey. The species are respectively: Actacarus bacescui, Camactognathus tesselatus, Coloboceras drachi, Halacarus rismondoi, Rhombognathus paratonops, and Rhombognathus parvulus. Among the species, 2 genera (Camactognathus and Coloboceras) and 4 species (Camactognathus tesselatus, Coloboceras drachi, Halacarus rismondoi and Rhombognathus parvulus) are being newly reported from the coasts of Turkey for the first time. Each species found in the area was briefly described with comments on their habitat preferences and geographical distributions.
Review: Barbara Ravelhofer (ed), James Shirley and Early Modern Theatre: New Critical Perspectives.
Authors: Clifford Catherine
Published: December 2019

This review considers Barbara Ravelhofer (ed.), James Shirley and Early Modern Theatre: New Critical Perspectives (2017).
Review: Jonathan Walker, Site Unscene: The Offstage in English Renaissance Drama.
Authors: Isaacson Emily Ruth
Published: December 2019

This review considers Jonathan Walker's Site Unscene: The Offstage in English Renaissance Drama (2017).
Review: Julie Ackroyd, Child Actors on the London Stage, circa 1600: Their Education, Recruitment and Theatrical Success.
Authors: Lamb Edel
Published: December 2019

This review considers Julie Ackroyd's Child Actors on the London Stage, circa 1600: Their Education, Recruitment and Theatrical Success (2017).
Review: Gary Watt, Shakespeare’s Acts of Will: Law, Testament and the Properties of Performance.
Authors: Mukherji Subha
Published: December 2019

This review considers Gary Watt's Shakespeare’s Acts of Will: Law, Testament and the Properties of Performance (2016).
Review: Katherine Steele Brokaw, Staging Harmony: Music and Religious Change in Late Medieval and Early Modern English Drama.
Authors: Vinter Maggie
Published: December 2019

This review considers Katherine Steele Brokaw's Staging Harmony: Music and Religious Change in Late Medieval and Early Modern English Drama (2017).
Self-selected exercise intensity for inactive hypertensive older women: a pilot study
Authors: Sócrates Júlio , Macêdo Geovani Araújo Dantas , Costa Ingrid Bezerra Barbosa , Browne Rodrigo Alberto Vieira , Farias-Junior Luiz Fernando , Freire Yuri Alberto , Schwade Daniel , Brito Leandro Campos de , Elsangedy Hassan Mohamed , Costa Eduardo Caldas
Published: December 2019

Self-selected exercise intensity (SSE) is a simple approach to encourage an active lifestyle. This study aimed to investigate whether a SSE intensity session meet the recommended intensity for hypertension management (i.e. moderate-vigorous), and whether heart rate (HR), rating of perceived exertion (RPE) and affective responses are reproducible. Thirteen inactive hypertensive older women (age: 64.54 ± 4.16 years; blood pressure: 122.51/62.15 mmHg) performed two 30-minute SSE intensity sessions outdoors. HR reserve (HRR), RPE and affective responses were assessed. Paired t-test, intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and typical error (TE) were used for the analyzes. Participants exercised at moderate-vigorous intensity (≥ 40% of HRR). No differences were found for HRR (56.46 ± 8.01% vs. 59.08 ± 10.57%), RPE (11.26 ± 1.14 vs. 10.98 ± 1.52) and affective response (3.47 ± 1.13 vs. 3.38 ± 1.23) (p > 0.05). RPE showed excellent reliability (ICC = 0.82; 95%CI: 0.42; 0.94; p = 0.003). There was a poor reliability for HRR (ICC = 0.40; 95%CI: -0.97; 0.82; p = 0.193) and affective responses (ICC = 0.19; 95%CI: -2.10; 0.76; p = 0.369). TE between sessions for HRR, RPE, and affective response were 8.11 bpm, 0.75 and 1.11, respectively. In conclusion, inactive hypertensive older women seem to meet the recommended intensity for hypertension management when they exercise at a self-selected pace and report it as light-moderate and pleasant. Despite only RPE, but not HR and affective response, has shown good reproducibility, the results seem to support the use of SSE intensity as a simple approach to encourage an active lifestyle in this population.
Regulações motivacionais das diferentes escolhas de atividade física no lazer de adolescentes
Authors: Matias Thiago Sousa , Andrade Alexandro , Manfrin Julia Morais
Published: December 2019

O objetivo desse estudo foi comparar as regulações motivacionais entre diferentes escolhas por AF no lazer em adolescentes e verificar se o volume anual de AF é diferente conforme essas escolhas. Tratou-se de um estudo transversal, de base populacional, com 2.757 adolescentes de 10 a 19 anos de idade. Questionários de AF habitual e motivação foram utilizados. Houve maior prevalência de adolescentes que escolheram a prática de esportes coletivos (≈ 60%) como AF de lazer. A regulação intrínseca foi maior nos praticantes de esportes de aventura (3,0 ± 0,99; p < 0,001; g de hedges = 0,55), lutas (2,90 ± 1,13; p < 0,001; g de hedges = 0,46) e esportes coletivos (2,66 ± 1,14; p < 0,001; g de hedges = 0,25) comparados aos adolescentes que escolheram exercícios no lazer (2,37 ± 1,15). O volume anual de AF foi maior para praticantes de esportes de aventura (z = 1,51, p < 0,001), quando comparado aos demais; e maior para os praticantes de lutas (z = 0,76), quando comparado aos de esportes coletivos (z = 0,02; p = 0,02) e exercícios (z = -0,10; p < 0,001). Em conclusão, as características motivacionais dos esportes de aventura e lutas podem ser observadas nas políticas e ações que visam estimular a prática de AF para jovens.
Forking, Fragmentation, and Splintering
Authors: Simcoe Timothy , Watson Jeremy
Published: December 2019

Although economic theory suggests that markets may “tip” toward a dominant platform or standard, there are many prominent examples of persistent incompatibility, interplatform competition, and standards proliferation. This paper examines the phenomena of forking, fragmentation, and splintering in markets with network effects. We illustrate several causes of miscoordination, as well as the tools that firms and industries use to fight it, through short cases of standardization in railroad gauges, modems, operating systems, instant messaging, and internet browsers. We conclude by discussing managerial implications and directions for future research.
Interrelation of the Estimation of Social and Economic Development of the Region and Quality of Water Resources
Authors: Matveeva L.G. , Kosolapova N.A. , Nikitaeva A.Y. , Likhatskaya E.A.
Published: December 2019

The paper validates the practicability of studying the problem of the quality of water at a regional level taking into account the mutual interaction between soci?-economic and hydroeconomic systems of the territories. The research revealed the limitations of the existing methods of estimation of the quality of water in the light of creation of informational and analytical basis of making managerial decisions. Accordingly, the authors suggest using the analytical tools of fuzzy logic, cluster analysis and neural networks to build an integral estimation of degree of water pollution and to classify water bodies according to the degree of their pollution and similarity of conditions and parameters of pollution. On the basis of the data concerning the quality of water resources in the river basin neural network was built, allowing to determine clusters of regions according to the quality of water resources. As input variables we used the information on the volume of drawing and dropping of water for each region, the amount of wastewater, which is polluted. The suggested methods allow greatly increase the opportunities to make managerial decisions with the help of interrelated estimation of the quality of water resources and the indicators of social and economic development of regional economic systems.
Reproductive Life Planning and Contraceptive Action Planning for Privately Insured Women: The MyNewOptions Study
Authors: Chuang Cynthia H. , Weisman Carol S. , Velott Diana L. , Lehman Erik , Chinchilli Vernon M. , Francis Erica B. , Moos Merry‐K. , Sciamanna Christopher N. , Armitage Christopher J. , Legro Richard S.
Published: December 2019

CONTEXT

Although reproductive life planning (RLP) is recommended in federal and clinical guidelines and may help insured women make personalized contraceptive choices, it has not been systematically evaluated for effectiveness.

METHODS

In 2014, some 984 privately insured women aged 18–40 who were not intending to become pregnant in the next year were randomly assigned to receive RLP, RLP with contraceptive action planning (RLP+) or information only (the control group). Women's contraceptive use, prescription contraceptive use, method adherence, switching to a more effective method, method satisfaction and contraceptive self‐efficacy were assessed at six‐month intervals during the two‐year follow‐up period. Differences between groups were identified using binomial logistic regression, linear regression and generalized estimating equation models.

RESULTS

During the follow‐up period, the proportion of women using any contraceptive method increased from 89% to 96%, and the proportion using a long‐acting reversible contraceptive or sterilization increased from 8% to 19%. Contraceptive adherence was high (72–76%) in all three groups. In regression models, the sole significant finding was that women in the RLP+ group were more likely than those in the RLP group to use a prescription method (odds ratio, 1.3). No differences were evident between the intervention groups and the control group in overall contraceptive use, contraceptive adherence, switching to a more effective method, method satisfaction or contraceptive self‐efficacy.

CONCLUSIONS

The study does not provide evidence that web‐based RLP influences contraceptive behaviors in insured women outside of the clinical setting. Further research is needed to identify strategies to help women of reproductive age identify contraceptive methods that meet their needs and preferences.
Denoising Raman spectra by Wiener estimation with a numerical calibration dataset
Authors: Bai Yanru , Liu Quan
Published: December 2019

Most denoising methods that are currently used in the processing of Raman spectra require significant user interaction in order to optimize their performance across a range of signal-to-noise ratios. In this study, we proposed a method based on the principle of spectral integration followed by Wiener estimation using a numerical calibration dataset, which eliminates the need of experimental measurements for calibration as in the previous Wiener estimation based denoising method. The new method was tested on three types of samples, including a phantom sample, human fingernail and leukemia cells. Compared to two common denoising methods, i.e. moving-average filtering and Savitzky-Golay filtering, the performance of the proposed method is significantly less sensitive to the choices of parameters. Moreover, this method provides comparable or even better denoising performance in the cases with low signal-to-noise ratios.