bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low lung function and the risk of incident chronic kidney disease in the Malmö Preventive Project cohort
Authors: Zaigham Suneela , Christensson Anders , Wollmer Per , Engström Gunnar
Published: April 2020

Background

Although the prevalence of kidney disease is higher in those with reduced lung function, the longitudinal relationship between low lung function and future risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) has not been widely explored.

Methods

Baseline lung function was assessed in 20,700 men and 7325 women from 1974 to 1992. Mean age was 43.4 (±6.6) and 47.5 (±7.9) for men and women respectively. Sex-specific quartiles of FEV1and FVC (L) were created (Q4: highest, reference) and the cohort was also divided by the FEV1/FVC ratio (≥ or < 0.70). Cox proportional hazards regression was used to determine the risk of incident CKD events (inpatient or outpatient hospital diagnosis of CKD) in relation to baseline lung function after adjustment for various confounding factors.

Results

Over 41 years of follow-up there were 710 and 165 incident CKD events (main diagnosis) in men and women respectively. Low FEV1was strongly associated with future risk of CKD in men (Q1 vs Q4 adjusted HR: 1.46 (CI:1.14–1.89), p-trend 0.002). Similar findings were observed for FVC in men (1.51 (CI:1.16–1.95), p-trend 0.001). The adjusted risks were not found to be significant in women, for either FEV1or FVC. FEV1/FVC < 0.70 was not associated with increased incidence of CKD in men or women.

Conclusion

Low FEV1and FVC levels at baseline are a risk factor for the development of future incident CKD in men. Monitoring kidney function in those with reduced vital capacity in early life could help with identifying those at increased risk of future CKD.
The reliability and validity of a novel Chinese version simplified modified Rankin scale questionnaire (2011)
Authors: Yuan Junliang , Wang Yunxiao , Hu Wenli , Bruno Askiel
Published: April 2020

Background

The modified Rankin Scale (mRS) is a key global outcome measure after stroke internationally. The latest English version of the simplified modified Rankin scale questionnaire (smRSq)(2011) is a reliable and valid tool in scoring the mRS after stroke. In order to use this tool in Chinese patients, we translated it into Chinese and tested its clinimetric properties.

Methods

The English version smRSq (2011) was translated into Chinese by a standard process. We recruited 300 consecutive hospitalized ischemic stroke patients in the department of neurology, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital. Six randomly paired raters scored the conventional mRS, the novel Chinese version smRSq (2011), the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), and the Barthel index (BI) in-person. Inter-rater reliability and validity were assessed.

Results

Among the 300 ischemic stroke patients, mean age was 64.9 ± 12.1 years, and 220 (73%) were male. For inter-rater reliability of the smRSq (2011), the percent agreement among the paired raters was 87%, the kappa (κ) was 0.84 (95% CI, 0.79–0.88), and the weighted kappa (κw) was 0.96 (95% CI, 0.95–0.98). The percent agreement between the smRSq (2011) scores and the conventional mRS scores was 55%, κ = 0.47 (95% CI, 0.40–0.54), and κw = 0.91 (95% CI, 0.89–0.93). In construct validity testing, the Spearman’s correlation coefficients comparing the smRSq (2011) scores with the NIHSS and the BI scores were 0.83 (P < 0.001) and − 0.86 (P < 0.001), respectively.

Conclusions

Our results show good to excellent clinimetric properties of the novel Chinese version smRSq (2011) in scoring the mRS in Chinese stroke patients. Further validation in other clinical settings, including in communities and by remote methods in China is warranted.
Drinking patterns and hydration biomarkers among young adults with different levels of habitual total drinking fluids intake in Baoding, Hebei Province, China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Zhang Jianfen , Zhang Na , Wang Yan , Liang Shuxin , Liu Shufang , Du Songming , Xu Yifan , He Hairong , Cai Hao , Ma Guansheng
Published: April 2020

Background

The purposes were to investigate the drinking patterns and hydration biomarkers among young adults with different levels of habitual total drinking fluids intake.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 159 young adults aged 18–23 years in Baoding, China. Total drinking fluids and water from food were assessed by 7-day 24-h fluid intake questionnaire and duplicate portion method, respectively. The osmolality and electrolyte concentrations of the 24 h urine and fasting blood samples were tested. Differences in LD1 (low drinker), LD2, LD3 and HD (high drinker) groups, stratified according to the quartiles of total drinking fluids, were compared using one-way ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis H test and chi-square test.

Results

A total of 156 participants (80 males and 76 females) completed the study. HD group had greater amounts of TWI (Total Water Intake), water from food, higher and lower contributions of total drinking fluids and water from food to TWI, respectively, than LD1, LD2 and LD3 groups (p < 0.05). Participants in HD group had higher amounts of water and water from dishes than participants in LD1, LD2 and LD3 groups (p < 0.05). No significant differences were found in the contributions of different fluids to total drinking fluids within the four groups (p > 0.05). The osmolality of urine was 59–143 mOsm/kg higher in LD1 than that in LD2, LD3 and HD group (p < 0.05). The percentage of participants in optimal hydration status increased from 12.8% in LD1 group to 56.4% in HD group (p < 0.05). HD and LD3 groups had 386~793 higher volumes of urine than that of LD1 and LD2 groups (p < 0.05). Differences were found in the concentrations of electrolytes among the four groups (p < 0.05). No significant differences were found in the plasma biomarkers (p > 0.05), with the exception of higher concentration of Mg in LD3 and HD groups than that in LD1 and LD2 groups (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Participants with higher total drinking fluids had better drinking pattern and hydration status. Interventions should be undertaken to advise adults to have adequate total drinking fluids, in order to keep in optimal hydration status.

Trial registration

The registration number was ChiCTR-ROC-17010320, which was registered on the Chinese clinical trial registry.
Intrusion of episcleral buckles: report of two cases and brief review
Authors: Zarei Mohammad , Mahmoudi Alireza , Hadi Abdollah , Riazi-Esfahani Hamid
Published: April 2020

Background

The authors report two cases of the scleral buckles intrusion and erosion that presented many years after primary surgery with vitreous haemorrhage in one of them. Although the erosion/intrusion of a silicone scleral buckle (SB) is rare, it may have serious consequences and optimal management can be challenging. Therefore, this diagnosis should be considered if attributable signs and symptoms including vitreous haemorrhage occurred after scleral buckling. The authors briefly review the literature on clinical presentation and management of the episcleral silicone buckling erosion and intrusion.

Case presentation

Case 1: A 48-year-old woman with a history of scleral buckling for an inferior rhegmatogenous retinal detachment presented with visual loss in her right eye. A vitreous haemorrhage was observed. After Close observation, Partial resolution of haemorrhage revealed an intruded sponge segment in inferior vitreous cavity. Case 2: A 26-year-old man was referred for retinal evaluation. Twenty years earlier, he had undergone lensectomy for bilateral childhood cataract. Ten years ago, he had developed an aphakic RRD in the left eye. The detachment was managed with pars plana deep vitrectomy, endolaser, an encircling silicone band, and silicone oil injection. On examination an eroded band was noted.

Conclusion

Although the erosion/intrusion of a silicone episcleral buckle is rare, it may have serious consequences and optimal management can be challenging. Unnecessarily destructive techniques may predispose the eye to this complication and should be avoided. Patients who have a history of SB need lifelong follow-up and this diagnosis should be considered if attributable signs and symptoms occurred.
Historical Perspective of World Experience of State Support for Small and Medium-Sized Entrepreneurship
Authors: Vissam Ibrahim
Published: April 2020

This article discusses the importance of small business, the practice of its state support by developed countries, both legal and financial, including organizational. Small businesses receive tax and other incentives, and are excluded from the sphere of influence of monopoly structures. The article considers the world experience of state support for small and medium-sized businesses, which may be useful for Russia in developing a strategy for the development of domestic business.
A new synonym in the genus Icfrealeyrodes Dubey & Sundararaj, 2006 (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) with an updated key to known species

Authors: DUBEY ANIL KUMAR , OUVRARD DAVID
Published: April 2020

Asialeyrodes radiata Pushpa & Sundararaj is proposed here as a junior synonym of A. splendens Meganathan & David. An updated key to puparia of genus Icfrealeyrodes is provided.
Characterisation of Hybrid Carbon Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer (C/GFRP) of Balanced Cross Ply and Quasi Isotropic under Tensile and Flexural Loading
Authors: Abd Ghani A. F. , Mahmud J.
Published: April 2020

This study is performed to characterize composite material of hybrid carbon glass reinforced polymer (C/GFRP) of two (2) types; namely balanced cross ply and quasi isotropic subjected to tensile and flexural loading. The mechanical testing performed on the hybrid composite as per ASTM standard and aimed to extract the mechanical properties related to tensile and flexural. The failure modes associated with the rupture of the composites/hybrid composites samples under tensile and three-point bending were assessed via JEOL 6010 Plus Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) instrument. The combination of GFRP lay-up at 0° at tensile side, GFRP lay-up 90° at compression side and ±45° lay-up of CFRP at shear/compression region enable the hybrid composite cross ply 8 to record the highest flexural strength. The substitution of 0° GFRP with 0° layup CFRP together with layup of 90° GFRP in hybrid composite cross ply 4, matrix/resin dominated layup acts as stress reliever in compression region during flexural loading taking place. This has induced to the increase of flexural strength, which observed to improve its original constituent of cross ply 2 (balanced cross ply GFRP). The factor of layup GFRP at transverse direction has enabled hybrid composite to possess a higher tensile modulus and to record considerably high tensile strength. The role of GFRP layup in enhancing the strain to failure in tensile and its role as a reliever in improving flexural strength during flexural loading has been tested and justified in this experiment.
Species distribution modelling of the genus Equisetum subgenus Equisetum for the territory of Russia
Authors: Feoktistov D. S. , Baiakhmetov E. Zh.
Published: April 2020

Horsetails are a complex taxonomic and systematic group. Therefore, the study of the geographical distribution of these species is necessary for a better understanding of the phylogeny of this family. We concluded an analysis of the distribution of 5 species of horsetail of the subgenus Equisetum (Equisetum, Equisetaceae): E. arvense L., E. fluviatile L., E. palustre L., E. pratense Ehrh., E. sylvaticum L. using the maximum entropy method implemented in the MaxEnt program. Modeling was carried out using climate variables from the WorldClim global climate base. Simulation results show good simulation quality. In 3 out of 5 species, the AUC of the test sample was in the range of 0.9–1, and in 2 species — 0.8–0.9. In general, for most species, a plausible picture of their intended distribution has developed. The obtained models suggest that the territory of Russia is favorable enough for the growth of horsetails. Analysis of the contribution of 14 bioclimatic variables to the distribution of the studied species revealed that the most important variables are: annual mean temperature, isotermality, temperature seasonality, max temperature of warmest month, temperature annual range, mean temperature of warmest quarter, mean temperature of driest quarter, mean temperature of coldest quarter, annual precipitation, precipitation of wettest month, precipitation seasonality, precipitation of driest quarter, precipitation of warmest quarter, and precipitation of coldest quarter.
Metodologia de Experimentação como estratégia potencializadora para o Ensino de Química
Authors: Gonçalves Raquel Pereira Neves , Goi Mara Elisângela Jappe
Published: April 2020

O presente trabalho tem como objetivo investigar como os alunos constroem conhecimento científicos com o uso da metodologia de experimentação no Ensino de Química, assim como, destacar aspectos da plenária de implementação dos experimentos e relatar e analisar as limitações desta metodologia. Neste contexto almeja-se responder a seguinte questão de pesquisa: “Como a metodologia de experimentação pode contribuir para a construção do conhecimento científico nas aulas de Química?” Para responder esta questão foi desenvolvida uma pesquisa de cunho qualitativo em que se analisou os experimentos que foram implementados com alunos do primeiro Ano do Ensino Médio na disciplina de Química em uma escola Estadual de Educação Básica, localizada na zona urbana do município de Vila Nova do Sul/RS. A partir desse trabalho foi possível levantar características importantes do uso das atividades experimentais na Educação Básica, como, maior participação dos alunos durante as aulas; capacidade de trabalhar em grupos; aprimoramento da escrita e apresentação de trabalhos em forma de plenária.
A constituição histórica do espaço da Educação Infantil: uma questão de gênero
Authors: Vidal Marinália Lemos Gonçalves , Pucci Renata
Published: April 2020

A construção da história da Educação Infantil no Brasil percorre modelos educacionais, métodos pedagógicos e uma organização social que perduram nos tempos contemporâneos. No levantamento da literatura para historicizar a constituição do espaço da Educação Infantil, observa-se a delimitação de um contexto marcado pela identidade de gênero: feminino. A construção histórica do espaço da Educação Infantil é atravessada pela maternidade: mães que cuidam, mães que se voluntariam para cuidar, mães que lutam por um lugar para deixarem seus filhos enquanto trabalham. Neste esteio, o objetivo do presente ensaio é promover a reflexão sobre a presença predominantemente feminina na Educação Infantil como uma construção histórico-social. Para tanto, traçamos o percurso da Educação Infantil no Brasil, de maneira não exaustiva, contemplando os Kindergartens, os primeiros Jardins de Infância, as creches e também alguns marcos legais. Em seguida, trazemos ao diálogo pesquisas contemporâneas que tratam da temática, cujos autores nos ajudam a refletir sobre a presença feminina na docência na Educação Infantil.
Virulence characterization of Klebsiella pneumoniae and its relation with ESBL and AmpC beta-lactamase associated resistance
Authors: Soltani Elghar , Hasani Alka , Ahangarzadeh Rezaee Mohammad , Pirzadeh Tahereh , Ahangar Oskouee Mahin , Hasani Akbar , Noie Oskouie Arezoo , Binesh Ehsan
Published: April 2020

Background and Objectives: Trend analysis reveals that Klebsiella pneumoniae has witnessed a steep enhancement in the antibiotic resistance and virulence over the last few decades. The present investigation aimed at a comprehensive approach investigating antibiotic susceptibility including, extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) and AmpC β-lactamase (AmpC) resistance and the prevalence of virulence genes among the K. pneumoniae isolates.
Materials and Methods: Sixty-one K. pneumoniae isolates were obtained from various clinical infections. Antimicrobial susceptibility was performed by disk diffusion method. The Mast® D68C test detected the presence of ESBLs and AmpCs phenotypically, and later presence of ESBL and AmpC genes was observed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Multi- plex-PCR was performed to investigate various virulence genes.

CMY-2

 

Results: Amongst 61 K. pneumoniae isolates, 59% were observed as ESBL and 14.7% as AmpC producers. All ESBL
 

CTX-M-15

 

producers were positive for bla
 
CTX-M-15
 
, while bla
 
CTX-M-14
 
was observed in 54.1% isolates. The frequency of AmpC genes was
 

CMY-2

 

as follows: bla
 
CMY-2
 
(60.7%) and bla
 
DHA-1
 
(34.4%). The most frequent virulence genes were those encoding enterobactin and
 

DHA-1

 

lipopolysaccharide. Presence of mrkD was associated with bla
 

CMY-2

 

DHA-1
 
gene, while bla
 
significantly (p≤0.05) correlated
 

DHA-1

 

with the presence of iutA and rmpA virulence genes. bla
 
positive isolates had urine as a significant source, while bla
 
positive isolates were mainly collected from wound exudates (p≤0.05).
Conclusion: Our results highlight that ESBL and AmpC production along with a plethora of virulence trait on K. pneumoni- ae should be adequately considered to assess its pathogenesis and antibiotic resistance.
Investigation of the antimicrobial properties of nanoclay and chitosan based nanocomposite on the microbial characteristics of Gouda cheese
Authors: Mohammadzadeh-Vazifeh Mojtaba , Hosseini Seyed Masoud , Mohammadi Ali , Jahanfar Mahdi , Maleki Hadi
Published: April 2020

Background and Objectives: In recent years, active packaging has been introduced as a new method to better preserve food. Chitosan and nanoclay have been used for preparation of an active nanocomposite with respect to their antimicrobial properties to investigate its effects on the microbial limitation in Gouda cheese.
Materials and Methods: Nanoclay film, chitosan film, chitosan-based nanocomposites and nanoclay-based nanocompos- ites were prepared and their antimicrobial properties were evaluated to the microbial limitations of Gouda cheese con- sist of coliforms, Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., coagulase-positive Staphylococcus, mold and yeast by agar diffusion method.
Results: The results indicated, the best antimicrobial effect belonged to nanocomposite film with the composition of chitosan
3 wt% by adding nanoclay 1 wt%, which can prevent microbial characteristics of Gouda cheese.
Conclusion: The chitosan and nanoclay nanocomposite had excellent antibacterial activity and performed well against microbial limitations (coliforms, E. coli, Salmonella spp., coagulase-positive Staphylococcus, mold and yeast) of Gouda cheese. Therefore, the nanocomposite may be possibly used as a surface coating in addition to Gouda cheese as well as sim- ilar cheeses and other food to enhance microbial characteristics and extend shelf life.
Influence of Lactobacillus casei WB 315 and crude fish oil (CFO) on growth performance, EPA, DHA, HDL, LDL, cholesterol of meat broiler chickens
Authors: Yulianto Andreas Berny , Lokapirnasari Widya Paramita , Najwan Rifqi , Wardhani Hana Cipka Pramuda , Rahman Nabil Fariz Noor , Huda Khoirul , Ulfah Nuria
Published: April 2020

Background and Objectives: Use of antibiotics as growth promoters in animal feeds has been restricted due to the residues in poultry products such as egg and meat, furthermore to the antibiotic resistant of pathogenic bacteria. The prohibition of their use opens the opportunity for the use of non-antibiotic feed additives such as probiotics. The objectives of this study were to investigate the effect of the addition of  Lactobacillus casei WB 315 and crude fish oil (CFO) to diets on growth performance, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), low density lipoproteins (LDL), high density lipoprotein (HDL), and cholesterol levesl of  broiler chickens.
Materials and Methods: In this research, one-day old male broiler chicks were used and divided equally into four groups, namely a basal diet without L. casei WB 315 and without CFO (P0), basal diet supplemented with 0.5% L. casei WB 315 of total broiler basal feed (1.2 × 109 cfu/ml) and without CFO (P1), basal diet supplemented without L. casei WB 315 and 1% CFO of total broiler basal feed (P2), and basal diet supplemented with 0.5% L. casei WB 315 of total broiler basal feed (1.2
× 109 cfu/ml) and 1% CFO of total broiler basal feed (P3) for 35 days.
Results: The results of addition 0.5% Lactobacillus casei WB 315 (1.2 × 109 cfu/ml) and 1% CFO of total broiler basal feed after 35 days showed significant difference among treatment in feed efficiency (p<0.05), feed conversion ratio (p<0.05), feed consumption (p<0.05), EPA (p<0.05), DHA (p<0.05), increase HDL (p<0.05), reduced the LDL (p<0.05), and reduce cholesterol (p<0.05) in meat broiler chicken.
Conclusion: It is concluded that the addition of L. casei WB 315 and crude fish oil (CFO) could significant improve the growth performance (feed efficiency, feed conversion ratio, feed consumption) and could significantly improve EPA, DHA and increase HDL and decrease LDL in meat poultry product.
The high efficacy of luliconazole against environmental and otomycosis Aspergillus flavus strains
Authors: Moslem Maryam , Mahmoudabadi Ali Zarei
Published: April 2020

Background and Objectives: Luliconazole is currently confirmed for the topical therapy of dermatophytosis. Moreover, it is found that luliconazole has in vitro activity against some molds and yeast species. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of luliconazole in comparison to routine used antifungals on clinical and environmental isolates of Aspergillus flavus.
Materials and Methods: Thirty eight isolates of A. flavus (18 environmental and 20 clinical isolates) were detected based
on morphological and microscopic features and also PCR-sequencing of β-tubulin ribosomal DNA gene. All the isolates
were tested against luliconazole, voriconazole, amphotericin B and caspofungin. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC),
 

90

 

MIC50, MIC
isolates.
 
and MIC Geometric (GM) were calculated using CLSI M38-A2 protocol for both environmental and clinical
 

GM

 

Results: Luliconazole with extremely low MIC range, 0.00049-0.00781 μg/mL and MIC
 
0.00288 μg/mL showed very
 
strong activity against both clinical and environmental A. flavus isolates. Moreover, voriconazole inhibited 100% of isolates at defined epidemiological cutoff values (ECV ≤ 2 µg/ml). 50% and 27.8% of clinical and environmental isolates of A. flavus, were resistant to caspofungin, respectively. Whereas, all the isolates were found to be resistant to amphotericin B.
 

GM

 

Conclusion: The analysis of our data clearly indicated that luliconazole (with MIC
 
0.00244 µg/ml for clinical and 0.00336
 
μg/ml for environmental isolates) had the highest in vitro activity against A. flavus strains.
Weight Development in Children After Gastric Bypass Surgery
Authors: Larsson Linda , Landin-Olsson Mona , Nilsson Charlotta
Published: April 2020

Objective: More and more young obese women get pregnant after undergoing gastric bypass surgery (GBP) but little is known about weight development in their offspring. The first aim of this study was to investigate weight development of children whose mothers have undergone GBP before pregnancy and compare them to age specific reference values in Sweden. Second aim was to study the frequency of small for gestational age (SGA) in this population.
Materials and methods: Weight of offspring (38 male and 28 female) where the mother had undergone GBP before pregnancy were studied from birth up to 18 months of age and compared to age-specific reference values in Sweden.
Results: The boys to mothers who had undergone GBP before pregnancy weighed more than Swedish reference values at 6 months, 8.44 ± 1.18 kilogram (kg) (n = 35) vs. 7.98 ± 0.81 kg (n = 1388; p = 0.001), and less at 18 months, 11.54 ± 0.93 kg (n = 19) vs. 12.27 ± 1.19 kg (n = 862; p < 0.001). The girls to mothers who had undergone GBP before pregnancy weighed more than Swedish reference values at 6 months, 7.84 ± 1.00 kg (n = 28) vs. 7.50 ± 0.77 kg (n = 1375; p = 0.020). Frequency of SGA was 3.0%.
Conclusion: No clear pattern was found concerning the short-term weight development of the children. However, studies with larger material and more follow up time must be performed.
Cesarean Scar Ectopic Pregnancy: The Lurking Danger in Post Cesarean Failed Medical Abortion
Authors: Anant Monika , Paswan Anita , Chandrajyoti Chandrajyoti
Published: April 2020

Cesarean scar pregnancy (CSP) is a potentially life threatening ectopic pregnancy where a missed diagnosis is commoner than an accurate diagnosis. Incidence of Ectopic pregnancy is 1 – 2 % and cesarean scar ectopic occurs in about (0.05%) 1 in 2000 of all pregnancies. With increasing cesarean section rates worldwide, CSP is bound to increase with its dreaded complications like uterine rupture and catastrophic hemorrhage. Three patients misdiagnosed as incomplete miscarriages in post cesarean pregnancies in other centers were found to be CSP in Gynaecology department of a tertiary level hospital. All three patients were managed successfully, two surgically and one medically.
Project Training at the Ural Federal University
Authors: Zorina A.D. , Goncharova V.A.
Published: April 2020

The article presents a model of implementation of project training at the Ural Federal University. Project training is presented as a set of mechanisms and tools for the formation of students ’ competencies demanded by employers and attracting new competencies and resources from the real sector of the economy. The advantages of the approach implemented at UrFU aimed at optimizing the procedure of interaction of student teams with enterprises are described. The authors suggest that the proposed approach makes it possible to effectively build communication between all participants in the process, increase motivation and involvement of students in the process of mastering their chosen educational programs.
Keywords: project training, educational programs, model, employers, communication, soft skills development, University, practice
Smart Thermostats in Building Automation Systems and Smart Homes
Authors: Goman V.V. , Korolev S.I.
Published: April 2020

This article surveys the current achievements concerning smart thermostats for smart homes and smart buildings and observes the level of smartness of the microclimate control systems for buildings and rooms. The article shows the results of analyzes the advantages and disadvantages of the marketed solutions and sets requirements for smart thermostat as a component of building automation system. All solutions were classified at three “smartness levels”, from zero to second, where zero level means simple manually adjusted temperature regulator, first level assumes working according the programmable schedule. The second level smart thermostat automatically generates and dynamically changes its schedule basing on the users’ activity and presence, as well as on user-defined priorities. The article sets goals for further research in the field of self-learning algorithms for smart thermostat, because it seems actual to develop a self-learning smart thermostat capable of supporting a large buildings; it should analyze user behavior and effect control both at the level of a whole building and at the level of single rooms.
Keywords: smart thermostat, smart home, building automation, energy saving, control systems, controller, regulator, algorithm
Development and Description of a Retail Outlet Simulation Model for Validating Information System Algorithms
Authors: Dubova M.A. , Kulemin A.N.
Published: April 2020

The article discusses the process of development an imitational model of the outlet. This model is created to validate calculation algorithms in the workforce management information system by evaluating the effectiveness of the some count of schedules, which are built with this system. If this schedules are more effective than the previous algorithm’s schedules, so new algorithm is more effective than previous version. Model is needed because calculation algorithms can not be used for validation themselves. Validation with real client’s outlet is so long and expensive, and is check only one or pair the calculation’s algorithms results, so in fact it can’t be used. Imitation model provide a chance to imitate works different types of outlets with many variants results of new version the calculation algorithms. AnyLogic was chosen because it is superior in functionality to the alternative despite the rather high cost of an official license. The text contains the results of the work performed, a brief description of the stages is given.
Keywords: simulation modeling, AnyLogic, validation, information systems, workforce management
Justification of a New Solution in the Field of Stroke Rehabilitation
Authors: Gareev B.S. , Kulemin A.N.
Published: April 2020

This research consists in the creation of a hardware-software complex for the rehabilitation of stroke patients. The device is designed for rehabilitation of patients after acute disorders of cerebral blood circulation with severe neurotraumas. The device is based on two existing rehabilitation technologies: the method of transcranial brain stimulation with the help of a magnetic neurostimulator, and the development of hand motility with the help of gloves. The combination of these two methods will allow patients to recover effectively, even at home, after they was suffering from neurotrauma.
Keywords: stroke, ischemic, rehabilitation, biofeedback, paresis, brain, computer, mechanized glove, hardware, and software complex, CNS diseases, integration, TMS, magnetic neurostimulator
Systems Approach When Substantiating Design Multifunctional Machine for the Maintenance of the Streets and Roads
Authors: Panov E.S.
Published: April 2020

The article describes a systematic approach to justifying the creation of civilian products at the enterprise of the military-industrial complex (MIC). The direction of development and possible problems in the creation of products are considered. The topic of maintaining the objects of the road network using specialized equipment is disclosed. The portrait of the consumer and his problems are determined. A general description of the created multi-functional small-sized power-armed machine for the maintenance of the road network is given. Created architecture - stakeholders, challenges and issues using systems engineering. The article is the basis for drawing up requirements for creating a system - a multifunctional small-sized power-armed machine.
Keywords: civilian products, systematic approach, consumer problems, multifunctional machine, stakeholder, maintenance of the road network
Problem Analysis and Design Solutions for Upgrading Software and Hardware Complex Test Stands № 2, 3, 4
Authors: Vychezhanin A.V.
Published: April 2020

The paper presents a model of effective interaction between the test and measuring devices and automation (I) and the automatic process control system (APCS). The ”Upgrading software and hardware complex test stands № 2, 3, 4” is directed on the efficiency and reliability of constituent equipment used in the operation of the test rig with diesel generator sets trials.
Keywords: Automatic control and industrial control systems, instrumentation and automation, upgrades, software and hardware.
Project Management vs Systems Engineering Approach to Project Risks Management
Authors: Zlokazov D.V.
Published: April 2020

Risk management is a dynamically developing type of management. Risk management refers to processes associated with identification, risk analysis and decision-making, which include maximizing the positive and minimizing the negative consequences of risk events. Risk elimination is necessary to complete the project on time. Managing risks for a project manager can be easier with using several approaches described in this article. The article presents comparison of widespread approach to managing risks in projects with the set of instruments derived from systems engineering. These approaches are SEBoK (System Engineering Body of Knowledge) PM BoK and OMG Essence. Author tries to integrate sets of instruments present in various project management and systems engineering bodies of knowledge and show how ones derive from the others.
Keywords: project, project management, risks of the project, risk management, systems engineering, stakeholders, project requirements, SEBoK
In silico Repositioning for Dual Inhibitor Discovery of SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) 3C-like Protease and Papain-like Peptidase
Authors: Bagherzadeh Kowsar , Daneshvarnejad Kourosh , Abbasinazari Mohammad , azizian homa
Published: April 2020

Aims: In late December 2019, early reports predicted the onset of a potential Coronavirus outbreak in china, given the estimate of a reproduction number for the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). Because of high ability of transmission and widespread prevalence, the mortality of COVID-19 infection is growing fast worldwide. Absent of an anti-COVID-19 has put scientists on the urge to repurpose already approved therapeutics or to find new active compounds against coronavirus. Here in this study, a set of computational approaches were performed in order to repurpose antivirals for dual inhibition of the frontier proteases involved in virus replication, papain-like protease (PLpro; corresponding to nsp3) and a main protease (Mpro), 3C‑like protease (3CLpro; corresponding to nsp5). Materials and Methods: In this regard, a rational virtual screening procedure including exhaustive docking techniques was performed for a database of 160 antiviral agents over 3CLpro and PLpro active sites of SARS-CoV-2. The compounds binding energies and interaction modes over 3CLpro and PLpro active sites were analyzed and ranked with the aid of free Gibbs binding energy. The most potent compounds, based on our filtering process, are then proposed as dual inhibitors of SARSC-CoV-2 proteases. Key findings: Accordingly, seven antiviral agents including two FDA approved (Nelfinavir, Valaganciclovir) and five investigational compounds (Merimepodib, Inarigivir, Remdesivir, Taribavirine and TAS106-106) are proposed as potential dual inhibitors of the enzymes necessary for RNA replication in which Remdesivir as well as Inagrivir have the highest binding affinity for both of the active sites. Significance: The mentioned drug proposed to inhibit both PLpro and 3CLpro enzymes with the aim of finding dual inhibitors of SARSC-CoV-2 proteases.
Evaluation of Dimensional Accuracy of 3D printed mandibular model using two different Additive Manufacturing Techniques based on Ultra-Low Dose Multislice Computed Tomography scan data
Authors: Hesham Noran Mohamed , Kandel Hossam , Dakhli Iman Ismail
Published: April 2020

Article Type : Research article Corrective and reconstructive cranio-maxillofacial interventions are a challenging area of surgery that requires careful pre-operative planning. To accommodate the need for precision pre-operative planning, surgeons frequently need guidance such as a 3D model to display complex cranial structures. 3D model is a manufactured model made by a 3D printer using digital imaging and communication for medicine (DICOM) data from a CT scan, and then, converted into computer-assisted design (CAD) data. Image acquisition is a very important step in generation of 3D objects as the quality of the object depends on the quality of the data. MSCT is widely applied for rapid prototyping because image post-processing is less complex for MSCT data.This aim of the present study is to evaluate the dimensional accuracy of the 3D printed mandibular models fabricated by two different additive manufacturing techniques using highly precise one as selective laser sintering (SLS) and low-cost one as fused filament fabrication and whether they are both comparable in terms of precision.In this diagnostic accuracy study , 7 mandibular models will be recruited for the study, 10 linear measurements will be determined on the models. MSCT scanning of the model will be performed. afterwards 3d printing of the scanned image will be done using SLS and FFF 3d printers. the predetermined 10 linear measurement will be measured on the printed models to be compared with the reference standard measurement to determine the accuracy of the 3d printers in dental applications like surgical guides, orthodontic appliances, fixed prosthodontics appliances and other many dental applications. The study is scheduled to be done by october 2020Article Type : Protocol for diagnostic accuracy study
Effects of Job Demands, Job Resources, and Workaholism on Overwork: A Cross-Sectional Survey in China
Authors: WANG XIN , YANG Jing , NAGAI Yoritoshi
Published: April 2020

Background Overwork has become the common for some employees in China. The ‘Healthy China 2030’ plan mandates prevention of excessive overtime, making serious overwork was not advocated. Meeting new regulations requires clarification of the factors influencing overwork; however, Chinese researchers have not thoroughly examined ‘overwork’ and few proven models are available for addressing its relationship to job demands, job resources, and workaholism. Methods This study analysed these factors and overwork among employees in Chinese companies. A total of 1047 employees completed the Workers Fatigue Accumulated Degree by Self-Diagnostic Questionnaire (WFAD-SQ) for Assessment of Workers' Accumulated Fatigue to measure the degree of overwork; Workaholism Battery (WorkBAT) was applied to evaluate workaholism; the Job content qualifications (JCQ) were adopted to survey job demands–resources. Results Structural equation modelling (SEM) verified the effects shown, indicating job resources significantly negatively affect and job demands positively affect overwork. Workaholism demonstrated a significant intermediary role between job demands-resources and overwork. The SEM results indicate job demands-resources have both direct and indirect effects on overwork, and task demands, psychological requirements, and colleague support are the primary positive protective predictors for overwork. Conclusions The findings indicate the importance of employers strictly enforcing overtime rules, ensuring staffs’ rights for rest, and establishing harmonious working relationships between employees.
Responsiveness of the EuroQoL 5-Dimension (EQ-5D) questionnaire in patients with spondyloarthritis
Authors: Tsang Helen Hoi Lun , Wong Carlos King Ho , Cheung Prudence Wing Hang , Lau Chak Sing , Chung Ho Yin , Cheung Jason Pui Yin
Published: April 2020

Background Spondyloarthritis (SpA) has a significant impact on patients’ quality of life due to functional impairments. Generic health instruments like the EuroQoL 5-dimension (EQ-5D) is important for cost-utility analysis of health care interventions and calculation of quality-adjusted life-years. It has been validated in patients with SpA. However, its responsiveness property has yet to be determined. Hence, the aim of study is to test the responsiveness properties of the EQ-5D health measure for Chinese patients with SpA.Methods Prospective and consecutive recruitment of 220 Chinese patients with SpA was conducted with follow-up assessments 6 months later. Demographic data including smoking and drinking habits, education level, income and occupation was collected. Disease-associated data including disease duration, presence of back pain, peripheral arthritis, dactylitis, enthesitis, uveitis, psoriasis, and inflammatory bowel disease was also recorded. Questionnaires regarding disease activity and functional disability (BASDAI, BASFI, BASGI, BASMI, ASDAS, ODI), mental health (HADS depression and anxiety) and the EQ-5D scores were recorded. Responsiveness was tested against the global rating of change scale (GRC) and changes in disease activity using BASDAI and ASDAS.Results A total of 112 (50.9%) patients completed the follow-up assessments. Most patients (63.4%) had low disease activity level with BASDAI <4 and 50.9% of patients had inactive disease by ASDAS-CRP. EQ-5D scores was well discriminated between improved and worsened BASDAI scores. The GRC was not able to discriminate adequately. No significant ceiling or floor effect was observed. Conclusions The EQ-5D demonstrates satisfactory responsiveness property for assessment of changes in disease activity in patients with SpA.
MicroRNA-935 mediates the regulatory effect of lncRNA KCNQ1OT1 on tumor progression of breast cancer
Authors: Zhang Chunjie , Gong Cuixue , Li Jianzhao , Tang Jiaying
Published: April 2020

Background The biological function of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs) have received increasing attention in the pathogenesis of various malignancies. This study aimed to evaluate the functional role and clinical significance of the KCNQ1OT1/miR-935 axis in breast cancer (BCa) progression. Methods Expression of KCNQ1OT1 and miR-935 was estimated using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). The interaction between KCNQ1OT1 and miR-935 was confirmed by luciferase reporter assay. BCa cell proliferation, migration and invasion were evaluated using CCK-8 and Transwell assays. The clinical significance of the KCNQ1OT1/miR-935 axis in BCa diagnosis was examined by ROC analysis. Results The expression of KCNQ1OT1 was significantly elevated, but the miR-935 expression was decreased in BCa cells (all P < 0.01). KCNQ1OT1 could directly bind to miR-935, leading to the decreased miR-935 expression in BCa cells (P < 0.001). The overexpression of miR-935 could inhibit BCa cell proliferation, migration and invasion, and remarkably reversed the regulatory effect of KCNQ1OT1 on BCa cell biological processes (all P < 0.05). Serum KCNQ1OT1 levels were negatively correlated with miR-935 levels in BCa patients. The aberrant expression of KCNQ1OT1 and miR-935 had relatively high diagnostic accuracy for the screening of BCa patients. Conclusion In conclusion, miR-935 expression is downregulated in BCa cells, which can be inhibited by KCNQ1OT1 and mediates the promoting effect of KCNQ1OT1 on BCa tumor progression in vivo. Serum reduced expression of miR-935 may serve as a diagnostic biomarker of BCa, and the KCNQ1OT1/miR-935 axis provides potential therapeutic targets for BCa treatment.
A Case Study on the Impact of Building Envelope on Energy Efficiency in High-Rise Residential Buildings
Authors: AYDIN Dinçer , MIHLAYANLAR Esma
Published: April 2020

The building envelope, the most important element in the energy consumption of a building, gains more importance due to the large amount of the surface area of building’s façade in high-rise buildings. The energy consumption of these buildings is increasing depending on their high transparency ratio as a result of decrease in the thermal resistance of the façade. The aim of this study is to show the importance of building envelope design in energy efficiency of high-rise residential buildings and to analyze the effect of the building envelope design on energy consumption. Turkey’s highest residential building from 2010 to 2017 was selected for the case building. DesignBuilder program with the EnergyPlus simulation engine was used for energy analysis of the building. The energy consumption results were compared with the other study data in the literature. As a consequence of the simulation conducted according to the existing façade of the building, 25% of the energy is used for heating and 14% for cooling in total energy consumption. It has been found that the building envelope designed with double-layered air corridor can offer the maximum level of residential comfort to the occupants. This study shows that the building façade with air corridor also reduces energy consumption by 30% compared to the same sized buildings.
Application of Potassium Ferrate(VI) in the Treatment of Selected Water and Wastewater Pollutants – Short Review
Authors: KLIŚ Simona , BARBUSIŃSKI Krzysztof , THOMAS Maciej , MOCHNACKA Anna
Published: April 2020

The paper presents the application of potassium ferrate(VI) (K2FeO4 ) for the removal of selected pollutants from water and wastewater. The research results on the degradation of endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs), decomposition of surfactants (SPCs), personal care products (PCPs), pharmaceuticals and their metabolites have been reviewed. Due to K2FeO4 strong oxidizing and coagulating properties, high stability, non–toxic by–products and non–selectivity it is sometimes called “environmentally friendly oxidant”. Due to this reasons K2FeO4 can be a multi–purpose water and wastewater treatment chemical and an alternative to advanced oxidation processes (AOPs).
A Review on Reliability Modeling of Manufacturing Systems Considering the Production Quality and Equipment Reliability
Authors: Li Kewu , Yang Jun , Huang Shuo
Published: April 2020

Background:

Nowadays, the manufacturing industry is much more fiercely competitive
and global than ever before. For sustainable increases in market share and profitability, manufacturers
are aiming to improve the quality of products and maintain the reliability of manufacturing systems.

Objective:

Therefore, to simultaneously optimize the quality and reliability for manufacturing systems
has become an important research topic in recent years.

Methods:

This study presents an overview of the methods for modeling manufacturing systems,
especially considering the system reliability and the product quality. And then, we review the optimization
methods for manufacturing system maintenance and production strategy.

Conclusion:

Finally, optimization methods and some challenges are summarized for future studies.
Методика пространственно-временного анализа электрической активности головного мозга
Authors: Руннова А.Е. , Журавлев М.О. , Киселёв А.Р. , Сельский А.О.
Published: April 2020

In the framework of this work a new method based on continuous wavelet transform was proposed for analyzing the spatio-temporal dynamics of brain activity patterns. We described the example of this method application for the analysis of brain electrical activity signals. It is shown that this method has the ability to visually detect the occurrence and spatial dynamics of frequency patterns.