bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Смена пола у черноморской мидии Mytilus galloprovincialis Lamarck, 1819 под влиянием тяжёлых металлов
Authors: Челядина Н. С. , Попов М. А. , Поспелова Н. В. , Смирнова Л. Л.
Published: October 2019

Тяжёлые металлы могут быть одним из факторов, вызывающих изменение половой структуры в поселениях мидий Mytilus galloprovincialis Lam., культивируемых на севастопольском побережье. Цель работы ― изучить воздействие ионов Zn+2, Cd+2, Pb+2, Hg+2, Cu+2 на инверсию пола культивируемых мидий в период посленерестовой перестройки их гонад. Хроническую интоксикацию самок мидии при концентрации ионов 2 ПДК проводили в течение одного месяца в лабораторных условиях. После трёхмесячного эксперимента в естественных условиях пол моллюсков определяли методом визуального изучения мазков гонад под микроскопом. Инверсия пола у самок происходила под влиянием каждого из тяжёлых металлов. Доли самцов были максимальными после воздействия Cu+2 и Pb+2 ― 65 и 52 % соответственно. Эксперименты и в лабораторных, и в естественных условиях показали высокий токсический эффект ионов Cu+2 и Hg+2, при этом смертность самок достигла 33 и 13 % соответственно.
Agronomic Performance and Nutrition Content of Hiyung as Local Variety of Cayenne Pepper [Capsicum frutescens] at Dry Land and Swamp Land of South Kalimantan Province
Authors: Pramudyani Lelya , Sabran M. , Noor Aidi
Published: October 2019

Hiyung is a local variety of cayenne pepper (Capsicum frutescens) that traditionally grown continuously at swampland of Tapin District, South Kalimantan Province. This cayenne pepper has high productivity and good market prospect and could contribute to increase national cayenne production. Another advantage of this cayenne pepper variety is enabling farmers to use some of the harvested seeds for the next planting season. The experiment has been conducted to characterize the agronomics and nutrition contents of Hiyung cayenne pepper from March to October 2013 at two different agroecosystems, i.e. dry land and swampland, and to compare it with three commercial varieties, i.e. Sonar, Bara, and Santika. The result of the experiment showed that Hiyung cayenne pepper, both at dry land and swampland, has the highest dry weight than the three other varieties. It also had the lowest fruit length, peel thickness, fruit weight, and weight of 1,000 fruits compare to the three other varieties. However, it had the highest productivity, which might be due to its longest harvest period.
The Effect of Production-Logging-Tool Data on Scale-Squeeze Lifetime and Management of Scale Risk in Norwegian Subsea Production Wells: A Case Study
Authors: Jordan Myles M.
Published: October 2019

Because of the higher cost of scale management for subsea (SS) operations compared with platform or onshore fields, and because of the more limited opportunities for interventions, it is becoming increasingly important to obtain and use real production data from wells rather than estimated zone flow contribution from simple permeability (k) and height (h) models for scale-squeeze-treatment design.

In this paper I discuss how scale-squeeze treatments were designed (coreflood evaluation of inhibitor retention/release) and deployed for three SS heterogeneous production wells. A permeability model and a layer-height model were initially developed for each well using detailed geological log data, estimated water/oil-production rates, and the predicted water-ingress location within the wells. Two wells were each treated three times using bullhead scale-squeeze treatments, with effective scale control being reported over the designed lifetime. A production log was acquired before the fourth squeeze campaign of these two wells. This information was incorporated into the squeeze simulation to allow review of the ongoing third squeeze and enhance design accuracy for the upcoming fourth squeezes. A third well was treated twice before production-logging data became available, and the performance of treatments to this well is also assessed.

The production-logging-tool (PLT) data proved very important in changing the understanding of fluid placement and the water-ingress location during production, resulting in changes to the isotherm values used to achieve effective history match to the inhibitor returns (with PLT data incorporated in all three wells), and most significantly affecting the squeeze lifetimes. It was possible to significantly extend the treatment lifetime of two of the wells (cumulative produced water to minimum inhibitor concentration), while the treatment life of one well was greatly reduced because of the PLT-data-modified model predictions.

In this paper I outline the process of reservoir/near-wellbore modeling that is used for most initial squeeze-treatment service companies deployed in the North Sea. I will highlight in detail the value that PLT data can provide to improve the effectiveness of squeeze treatments in terms of understanding of fluid placement during squeeze deployment and water-ingress location within heterogenous production wells. The intention of this paper is to highlight the value that these types of data can provide to improve scale management (squeeze treatment and water shutoff) such that the value created more than offsets the cost of acquiring such information for SS production wells.
Evaluation of the Influenza Sentinel Surveillance System in the Democratic Republic of Congo, 2012-2015
Authors: Babakazo Pelagie Diambalula , Kabamba-Tshilobo Joelle , Wemakoy Emile Okitolonda , Lubula Léopold , Manya Léonie Kitoko , Ilunga Benoit Kebela , Disasuani Wally , Nkwembe Edith , Kavunga-Membo Hugo , Changachanga Jean-Claude , Muhemedi Saleh , Tamfum Jean-Jacques Muyembe , Tempia Stefano
Published: October 2019

Background

The World Health Organization recommends periodic evaluations of influenza surveillance systems to identify areas for improvement and provide evidence of data reliability for policymaking. However, data about the performance of established influenza surveillance systems are limited in Africa, including in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Methods

We used the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines to evaluate the performance of the influenza sentinel surveillance system (ISSS) in DRC during 2012-2015. The performance of the system was evaluated using eight surveillance attributes: (i) data quality and completeness for key variables, (ii) timeliness, (iii) representativeness, (iv) flexibility, (v) simplicity, (vi) acceptability, (vii) stability and (viii) utility. For each attribute, specific indicators were developed and described using quantitative and qualitative methods. Scores for each indicator were as follows: <60% weak performance; 60-79% moderate performance; ≥80% good performance.

Results

During 2012-2015, we enrolled and tested 4,339 patients with influenza-like illness (ILI) and 2,869 patients with severe acute respiratory illness (SARI) from 11 sentinel sites situated in 5 of 11 provinces. Influenza viruses were detected in 446 (10.3%) samples from patients with ILI and in 151 (5.5%) samples from patients with SARI with higher detection during December-May. Data quality and completeness was >90% for all evaluated indicators. Other strengths of the system were timeliness, representativeness, simplicity, stability and utility that scored >70% each. Flexibility and acceptability had moderate to week performance. It was reported that the ISSS contributed to: (i) a better understanding of the epidemiology, circulating patterns and proportional contribution of influenza virus among patients with ILI or SARI; (ii) acquisition of new key competences related to influenza surveillance and diagnosis; and (iii) continuous education of surveillance staff and clinicians at sentinel sites about influenza. However, due to limited resources no actions were undertaken to mitigate the impact of seasonal influenza epidemics.

Conclusions

The system performed overall satisfactorily and provided reliable and timely data about influenza circulation in DRC. The simplicity of the system contributed to its stability. A better use of the available data could be made to inform and promote prevention interventions especially among the most vulnerable groups.
Nutrition knowledge and Attitude in Medical Students of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences in 2017-2018
Authors: Dolatkhah Neda , Shakouri Seyed Kazem , Khalili Azizeh Farshbaf , Hajifaraji Majid , Hashemian Maryam , Esmaeili Sepideh
Published: October 2019

Objectives : In this cross-sectional study among 220 medical students we aimed to determine the nutritional knowledge and attitude of medical students through clinical training courses (externship and internship) of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Iran. A nutritional knowledge questionnaire included 51 questions was used to determine the correct, perceived and accuracy of knowledge of the participant in different aspects of nutrition sciences. Nutritional knowledge was calculated as percentage of correct responses. The nutrition attitude questionnaire included 30 questions. Both questionnaires were confirmed in terms of the validity and reliability for assessing nutritional knowledge and attitude in this sample of Iranian medical students.
Results: The mean score of correct knowledge was not significantly different among externs and interns (68.20±7.50% and 67.87±6.04% respectively, p=0.729). Results showed that most of the participants (49.61% of externs and 57.14% of inters) had a poor nutritional knowledge, significantly varied by age (p=0.035). The mean attitude index of the subjects was not significantly different among externs and interns (106.37±13.66 and 108.16±13.35 out of 145 respectively, p=0.337). Most students (92.7%) had a very appropriate attitude toward nutrition, significantly varied by sex (p=0.010). These findings indicate that there are multiple deficiencies in nutrition knowledge of medical students.
Surgically produced, controllable immunocompromised pigs
Authors: Kobayashi Eiji , Maki Toshiyuki , Igaki Keiko , Enosawa Shin
Published: October 2019

Majority of research on human regenerative medicine has focused on the use of human mature cells/tissues and stem cell derived products. To ensure their safety and efficacy for clinical application, preclinical testing in large animals such as pigs, using pre-clinical and clinical matching protocols, is required. However, presently, there is no universal, stable, adjustable immunosuppressed pig model in which human regenerative cell and tissue products may be evaluated. Consequently, we established a controllable immunocompromised pig model by surgical excision of immune organs and varying the administration of immunosuppressive agents based on the physical condition and pharmacokinetic profile. Here, we describe the precise experimental procedure and provide information on immunosuppression therapies in different breeds of laboratory pigs. We provide practical information for the production of operational SCID pigs. We believe that our procedure may be immediately implemented in human-to-pig experiments, resulting in cost-benefit perspectives and furthering the development of new regenerative medicine.
Predictive theory of CD4+ cells in HIV+ patients in antiretroviral therapy
Authors: Velásquez Javier Rodriguez , Herrera Sandra Catalina Correa , Díaz Carlos Eduardo Pérez
Published: October 2019

Background: Flow cytometry evaluates the number CD4-Positive T-Lymphocytes in patients infected with HIV/AIDS in anti-retroviral management, which orientates therapies towards different targets. Previously, a methodology was designed based on probability and set theories from leukocyte and lymphocyte counts of complete blood count, although predictions in time were not developed, which is why is wanted to establish a methodology of clinical applicability to temporarily forecast the values of CD4+ greater than 500, between 200 and 500 and lesser than 200 from the values of CD4+ and leukocytes of each patient. Methods: From sequential counts of CD4+ and leukocytes of 200 cases, the registries of 10 prototypical patients were observed to establish predictive patterns, and then these patterns were are applied to the remaining patients in a blind study, finding the probability of success of the methodology as well as sensitivity and specificity values. Results: 5 patterns were found with percentages greater than 99% of predictive accuracy for the distinct conditions of the methodology, with values of sensitivity and specificity of 99%. Conclusions: through a mathematical theoretical simplification, a temporal self-organization in the sequence of measurements of leukocytes and CD4+ lymphocytes were established, highlighting the loading of probability in the dynamic of CD4+ counts, useful to conduct more appropriate following ups of patients in anti-retroviral management.
Predictors of Using Safe or Unsafe Contraception among Women with Unplanned Pregnancy: Applying BASNEF Model
Authors: Hazavehei Mohammad Mahdi , Rostami-Moez Masoumeh , Moeini Babak , Roshanaei Ghodratollah , Nazari Mojgan
Published: October 2019

Background Unplanned pregnancy is an important public health problem. Most of the unplanned pregnancies occur with using unsafe contraceptive methods. The psychological determinants for choosing contraceptive methods are not properly clear. This study aimed to determine psychological predictors for using safe and unsafe contraception among women with unplanned pregnancy.Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted among 227 married women with unplanned pregnancy. The census sampling was used for data gathering. Participants were interviewed using a questionnaire. Chi-square, linear and logistic regression, and correlation tests have been used for data analysis.Results The most common contraceptive method in women with unplanned pregnancies was male condom (32.2%). Women's awareness of contraceptive methods was low. The mean of age of women with unwanted pregnancy was 30 years. The intention was significantly associated with contraceptive methods (OR = 1.44; 95% CI: 1.095-1.889). There was a significant relationship between attitude toward behavior and intention ( P <0.01). There was a significant association between the number of daughters, previous unplanned pregnancy, husband's job, and household income and contraceptive methods ( P <0.01).Conclusion The finding of this study suggest that public health strategies to reduce unplanned pregnancy, particularly among women around ages 30 years, should focus on addressing attitude and intention in contraceptive advice and healthy childbearing interval.
Regulation of highly hazardous pesticides in India - implications for suicide prevention
Authors: Bonvoisin Toby , Utyasheva Leah , Knipe Duleeka , Gunnell David , Eddleston Michael
Published: October 2019

Background: Pesticide self-poisoning is a common means of suicide in India. Banning highly hazardous pesticides from agricultural use has been successful in reducing total suicide numbers in several South Asian countries without affecting agricultural output. Here, we describe national and state-level regulation of highly hazardous pesticides and relate them to suicide rates across India. Methods: Information on pesticide regulation was collated from agriculture departments of central and state governments. National and state-level data on suicides for 1995 until 2015 was obtained from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB). We used joinpoint analysis and negative binomial regression to investigate the possible effects of pesticide bans on trends in suicide rates. Results: As of August 2019, 314 pesticides were registered for use in India, of which 18 were extremely (Class Ia) or highly (Class Ib) hazardous according to World Health Organization toxicity criteria. Despite many highly hazardous pesticides still being available, a number of bans have been implemented during the period studied. In our quantitative analyses we focussed on the permanent bans in Kerala in 2005 (of endosulfan) and 2011 (of 14 other pesticides); and nationally in 2011 (of endosulfan). NCRB data indicate that pesticides were used in 441,918 reported suicides in India from 1995-2015, 90.3% of which occurred in 11 of the 29 states. Time series analysis demonstrated statistical evidence of lower than expected rates of pesticide suicides and total suicides nationally after the 2011 endosulfan ban. In Kerala, there was a lower than expected rate of pesticide suicides but no change to the already decreasing trend in total suicides after both the 2005 ban of endosulfan and the 2011 ban of 14 pesticides. Discussion: Highly hazardous pesticides continue to be used in India, and pesticide suicide remains a serious public health problem. However, some bans of pesticides do appear to have impacted previous trends in the rates of both pesticide suicides and all suicides. Comprehensive national bans of highly hazardous pesticides could lead to a reduction in suicides across India, in addition to reduced occupational poisoning, with minimal effects on agricultural yield.
‘SasCsvToolkit’ - A versatile parallel `bag-of-tasks` job submission application on heterogeneous and homogeneous platforms for Big Data Analytics such as for Biomedical Informatics
Authors: Singh Abhishek
Published: October 2019

Background: The need for big data analysis requires being able to process large data which are being held fine-tuned for usage by corporates. It is only very recently that the need for big data has caught attention for low budget corporate groups and academia who typically do not have money and resources to buy expensive licenses of big data analysis platforms such as SAS. The corporates continue to work on SAS data format largely because of systemic organizational history and that the prior codes have been built on them. The data-providers continue to thus provide data in SAS formats. Acute sudden need has arisen because of this gap of data being in SAS format and the coders not having a SAS expertise or training background as the economic and inertial forces acting of having shaped these two class of people have been different. Method: We analyze the differences and thus the need for SasCsvToolkit which helps to generate a CSV file for a SAS format data so that the data scientist can then make use of his skills in other tools that can process CSVs such as R, SPSS, or even Microsoft Excel. At the same time, it also provides conversion of CSV files to SAS format. Apart from this, a SAS database programmer always struggles in finding the right method to do a database search, exact match, substring match, except condition, filters, unique values, table joins and data mining for which the toolbox also provides template scripts to modify and use from command line. Results: The toolkit has been implemented on SLURM scheduler platform as a `bag-of-tasks` algorithm for parallel and distributed workflow though serial version has also been incorporated. Conclusion: In the age of Big Data where there are way too many file formats and software and analytics environment each having their own semantics to deal with specific file types, SasCsvToolkit will find its functions very handy to a data engineer.
A German-language competency-based multisource feedback instrument for residents: Development and validity evidence
Authors: Hennel Eva K. , Subotic Ulrike , Berendonk Christoph , Stricker Daniel , Harendza Sigrid , Huwendiek Sören
Published: October 2019

Background In medical settings, multisource feedback (MSF) is a recognised method of formative assessment. It collects feedback on a doctor’s performance from several perspectives in the form of questionnaires. Yet, no validated MSF questionnaire has been publicly available in German. Thus, we aimed to develop a German MSF questionnaire and investigate the evidence of its validity. Methods We developed a competency-based MSF questionnaire in German, informed by the literature and expert input. Four sources of validity evidence were investigated: (i) Content was examined based on MSF literature, blueprints of competency, and expert-team discussions. (ii) The response process was supported by analysis of a think-aloud study, narrative comments, “unable to comment” ratings and evaluation data. (iii) The internal structure was assessed by exploratory factor analysis, and inter-rater reliability by generalisability analysis. Data was collected during two runs of MSF, in which 47 residents were evaluated once (first run) or several times (second and third run) on 81 occasions of MSF. (iv) To investigate consequences we analysed the residents’ learning goals, self-reported changes, and the progress reported via MSF. Results Our resulting MSF questionnaire (MSF-RG) consists of 15 items and one global rating, which are each rated on a scale and accompanied by a field for narrative comments and cover a construct of a physician´s competence. Additionally, there are five open questions for further suggestions. Investigation of validity evidence revealed: (i) The expert group agreed that the content comprehensively addresses clinical competence; (ii) The response processes indicated that the questions are understood as intended and supported the acceptance and usability; (iii) For the second run factor analysis showed a one-factor solution and a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.951 and an inter-rater reliability of 0.797 with 12 raters; (iv) There are indications that residents benefitted, considering their individual learning goals, their self-reported changes, and based on their progress reported via MSF itself. Conclusions To support residency training with multisource feedback, we developed a German MSF questionnaire (MSF-RG), which is supported by four sources of validity evidence. This MSF questionnaire may be useful to implement MSF in residency training in German-speaking regions.
Wound management curriculum design and implementation evaluation: Evidence from Peking University First Hospital
Authors: Qi Xin , He Rui , Wen Bing , Li Qiang , Wu Hongbin
Published: October 2019

Backgroud: It is of vital importance to standardize wound management knowledge and operations in the early stage of resident training. A simulated wound management curriculum for postgraduate Year 1 surgery residents (PGY1s) was designed and its effectiveness evaluated.Methods: We used a quasi-experimental method. PGY1s in 2014 constituted the control group, while PGY1s in 2015 and 2016 constituted the intervention group. The traditional curriculum given to the control group comprised a one-hour lecture plus demonstrations by the instructor, followed by a three-hour practice session. Conversely, the curriculum given to the intervention group included a four-hour curriculum with four components. At the end of each year, the wound management curriculum was evaluated.Results: Subjective assessment showed the intervention group’s scores were significantly higher for dissociation of subcutaneous tissue and quality of suturing and knots. Objective assessment showed there was no obvious improvement in residual marking of incision margin, but the accuracy of debridement depth was greatly improved in the intervention group, the rate of spindle resection decreased and the number of key sutures was significantly higher.Conclusions: The simulated wound management curriculum for PGY1s revealed a generally satisfactory training outcome. It could be implemented in other Chinese universities.
Association of IL-10 gene promoter polymorphisms with susceptibility to pseudoexfoliation syndrome, pseudoexfoliative and primary open-angle glaucoma
Authors: Fakhraie Ghasem , Parvini Farshid , Ghanavi Jalaledin , Saif Shima , Farnia Poopak
Published: October 2019

Background: The involvement of cytokines in pathogenesis of pseudoexfoliation syndrome and glaucoma has been demonstrated in several studies. The aim of the present study was to explore the association between three promoter polymorphisms -592C/A (rs1800872), -819C/T (rs1800871) and -1082A/G (rs1800896) of interleukin 10 (IL-10) gene promoter with susceptibility to pseudoexfoliation syndrome (PEX), pseudoexfoliative glaucoma (PEXG), and primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). Results: In all three SNPs studied, there was a significant difference in the genotype distribution between patients and control subjects. Results revealed that the AA genotype of IL-10 -592C/A SNP is associated with PEX. However, TT genotype of -819C/T and AA genotype of -1082A/G SNP are significantly associated with susceptibility to either PEX or PEXG and POAG disorders. Furthermore, the ACC haplotype containing the IL-10 -1082A allele was associated with PEX, PEXG and POAG. Conclusions: Our results demonstrated that IL-10 gene promoter polymorphisms are associated with susceptibility to PEX, PEXG and POAG in Iranian population. Considering the fact that IL-10 polymorphisms are associated with various IL-10 expressions, further research is needed to explain its involvement in these disorders and the formation of extracellular fibrillar amyloid deposits in PEX and PEXG.
A maternal GOT1 novel mutation associated with early-onset severe preeclampsia identified by whole-exome sequencing
Authors: Zhang Lin , Cao Zheng , Feng Fan , Xu Ya-Nan , LI LIN , Gao Hong
Published: October 2019

Purpose: This study wants to know the genetic cause of preeclampsia (PE) which is a leading cause of maternal and perinatal death, but the underlying molecular mechanisms that cause PE remain poorly understood. Many single nucleotide polymorphisms have been identified by genome-wide association studies and were found to be associated with PE; however, few studies have used whole-exome sequencing (WES) to identify PE mutations.Methods: Five patients with severe early-onset preeclampsia (EOPE) were recruited, and WES was performed on each patient. Sanger sequencing was used to confirm the potential causative genetic mutation. Results: After a stringent bioinformatics analysis, a rare mutation in the GOT1 gene, c.44C>G:p.P15R, was found in one patient. Bioinformatics analysis showed that the mutation site is highly conserved across several species and was predicted to be a pathogenic mutation according to several online mutational function prediction software packages. Further structural biology homology modeling suggested that P15R would change the electric environment of enzymatic center, and might affect the binding affinity of substrate or product. Conclusion: We demonstrated for the first time that the mutation in GOT1 may be associated with EOPE, the results of this study provide researchers and clinicians with a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms that underlie maternal severe EOPE.
Assessment of malaria as a public health problem in and around Arjo Didhessa Sugar Cane Plantation area, Western Ethiopia
Authors: Dufera Mebrate , Debsu Regea , Tiruneh Gemechu
Published: October 2019

Background: Although much progress has been made in reducing malaria morbidity and mortality worldwide in the last decade, malaria still remains the third leading cause of death and still considered as major public health problem. Objectives : The main objective of this study was to assess malaria as a public health problem in and around sugar cane plantation area of Arjo Didhessa sugar factory, Western Ethiopia. Methods: A community based cross sectional study supplemented with clinical retrospective data, which included 452 study subjects was employed and the study period extended from May 2016 up to November of 2017. A standardized questionnaire was used to assess malaria risk factors and blood samples were received from all study participants and further subjected to Giemsa staining for determination of malaria prevalence. Data was analyzed by SPSS version 20.Malaria risk factors were identified by multivariate logistic regression at significance level of P < 0.05 . Results: The overall malaria prevalence was 3.1%; Plasmodium vivax being the main type of malaria parasite. Overnight outdoor sleeping and improper utilization of mosquito bed nets were found to be statistically significant as malaria risk factors in the community. In the retrospective studies of five years, the peak malaria cases (13.84%) were reported in 2013 and less cases (1.24%) in 2017. Conclusion: The prevalence of malaria observed in the area is still higher as compared to national prevalence of malaria. Therefore; we recommend further strengthening of malaria prevention and control strategies. Additionally, educative training opportunities must be provided for workers in the plantation area on malaria prevention and control. Key words : Arjo Didhessa, malaria, malaria risk factors
Causal Effect of Maternal HIV on Child Health Outcomes in the Context of Prevention of Mother to Child HIV Transmission (PMTCT) in Malawi
Authors: Twabi Halima Sumayya , Manda Samuel O , Small Dylan S
Published: October 2019

Evidence has shown that maternal HIV infection has adverse effects on child birth weight. However, the effect of anti-retroviral therapy (ART) on pregnancy outcome is not conclusive. Ascertaining causality of these associations remain largely unexamined and untested, and if confirmed would help policy makers to improve implementation and sensitization of PMTCT program. However, assessing causal effect has been limited due to ethical concerns if randomized controlled trials are appropriate. We aim to estimate the causal effect of maternal HIV on birth weight and the causal effect of knowledge of HIV status on exclusive breastfeeding while ascertaining the mediating effect of ART using observational data.
Data on over 18,000 and 16,000 children still alive and born within five years of the 2010 and 2015-16 Malawi Demographic and Health Surveys were analysed. A set of methods for confounder balance namely, the 1:1 nearest neighbour (NN) matching, matching on the propensity score (PS) and inverse weighting the propensity score (PS) were used.
Before matching, place of residence, region, anaemia level and age were statistically different between HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected mothers for both the 2010 and 2015-16 data. After matching, the selected confounding variables were distributed similarly between HIV-infection statuses. Maternal HIV infection had a negative effect on infant birth weight for the 2010 data and had a positive effect on birth weight for the 2015-16 data with p-values <0.001. Uptake of ART did not mediate the effect of HIV infection on birth weight. Maternal knowledge of HIV status was not associated with behaviour concerning exclusive breastfeeding.
We have found conflicting evidence on the association between maternal HIV infection and birth weight. The adverse association between maternal HIV infection and child birth weight found for the 2010 data could more likely be causal. However, the increased birth weight among infants born to HIV infected mothers in 2015-16 may show the recent successes of policies and interventions within the PMTCT program in Malawi. However, the purported mediating effect of ART on the association between HIV infection and birth weight was not found. Prenatal care interventions should continue to be supported among ANC clinics in Malawi.
Third molar agenesis in modern humans with and without other tooth agenesis
Authors: Scheiwiller Maya , Oeschger Elias S. , Gkantidis Nikolaos
Published: October 2019

Background The number of teeth in the human dentition attracts special interest both from developmental and evolutionary aspects. The present case-control study focused on the formation of third molars in modern humans aiming to shed more light in this long lasting enigma.Methods For this reason, we investigated third molar formation in a sample of 303 individuals with tooth agenesis other than in third molars (agenesis group) and compared it to a sex and age matched control group of 303 individuals without tooth agenesis other than in third molars.Results The prevalence of third molar agenesis in the agenesis group was 50.8%, which is significantly higher than the 20.5% in the control group (p < 0.001). The chance of a missing third molar in the agenesis group was increased by 38.3% (p < 0.001), after controlling for the other tooth agenesis factor. When considering the percentages of the number of missing third molars per individual, a clear tendency towards more missing third molars was evident in the agenesis group compared to the control group. The frequency of bilaterally missing third molars in the agenesis group was 29% in the upper as well as in the lower jaw, which is about three times higher than the frequency of unilaterally missing third molars (p < 0.001). In the control group, bilaterally missing third molars occurred in 8.6% in the upper and 8.9% in the lower jaw.Conclusion The present results indicate that genetic factors involved in certain tooth agenesis also affect the entire dentition as a whole. Furthermore, the third molars are more vulnerable to factors involved in other tooth agenesis and they are more often affected as a total. These findings seem to be associated with the evolutionary trend in humans towards reduced molar number.
Margınal ıntegrıty of fıve dıfferent root sealers ın retrograde fıllıng followıng apıcoectomy: An ın vıtro analysıs wıth scannıng electron mıcroscope and mıcro-radıography
Authors: Acil Yahya , Karataban Pinar Kiymet , Gülses Aydin , Ayna Mustafa , Wiltfang Jörg
Published: October 2019

Objective The aim was to clarify the physical properties of five different root canal sealers used as retrograde filling materials on the resected root apex following apicoectomies.Materials and Methods Apical resection was performed on 100 canals of 50 maxillary premolars in slaughtered pigs. The root end of 24 canals were retrogradely filled with Diaket ™, 37 root canals with Super-EBA ™ including 18 with Super-EBA ™ Regular and 19 with Super-EBA ™ fast, 20 canals with ProRoot® MTA and 19 canals with AH-Plus ™. For quantitative examination, scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis and for qualitative examination microradiography was performed.Results Diaket ™ achieved the best results with an overall average of 4.872 microns gap value. The mean values of marginal gap widths of AH - Plus ™ and Super - EBA ™ were almost the same magnitude 8.044 microns and 9.951 microns respectively, followed by Super - EBA ™ Regular with 11,560 microns. Highest marginal gap value was detected in ProRoot® MTA with 18.343 microns (p < 0.001) .Conclusion According to the limited knowledge of the current in vitro study Diaket ™ achieved the best results compared to the other materials. Additional clinical studies with long term follow up period might help to determine the most appropriate root-end filling material.Clinical Relevance Among five different root canal sealers used as retrograde filling materials, in terms of its marginal integrity and material properties, Diaket ™ can be referred as the most suitable material for retrograde obturation.
Blood gas tension and acidity level of caries exposed vital pulps in primary molars
Authors: Shmueli Aviv , Guelmann Marcio , Tickotsky Nili , Ninio-Harush Rinat , Noy Avia Fux , Halperson Elinor , Ram Diana , Moskovitz Moti
Published: October 2019

Background The purpose of this study was to determine if gas tension and acidity levels could serve as biomarkers of pulp inflammatory status in the primary dentition. Methods The present study evaluated acidity level and blood partial pressures of O 2 and CO 2 collected from vital pulp chambers of 84 primary molars with deep carious lesions encroaching the pulp. Teeth were treated with pulpotomy or pulpectomy based on clinical judgement after excision of the coronal pulp tissue. Pulpectomy was performed when positive history of symptoms, difficulty in obtaining hemostasis and/or dark purple blood were present. Using a glass capillary, pulp chamber bleeding was collected and within ten minutes a neonate Astrup test was performed to determine blood gas module pH, pCO 2 , and pO 2 . Results Eighty-four children with one affected tooth participated in the study (37 girls and 47 boys). Age ranged between 3.5 to 11-years (average: 5.3 years). Seventy-one (84%) were treated with the aid of inhalation analgesia, conscious sedation or general anesthesia. Pulpotomy was performed on 51 teeth (61%). Teeth undergoing pulpectomy revealed significant higher level of CO 2 partial pressure (P<0.05) and acidity level values (pH) were also lower in teeth with pulpectomy (P>0.05). Conclusions Higher pCO 2 levels and lower pH were found in pulps needing pulpectomy.
Effect of trans-cranial near infrared light 1068 nm upon age-related memory status: a pilot study.
Authors: Dougal Gordon , Ennaceur Abdel , Chazot Paul
Published: October 2019

Background We present a pilot study of the Cerebrolite technology, where we explored the effect of multi-modality photo-biomodulation (PBM) therapy, with a peak wavelength of 1068 nm, upon motor function, memory and processing speed reversal in aged individuals who have been diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) .Methods PBM therapy was performed at home, adopting the Cerebrolite Trans-cranial phototherapy device, an air-cooled light emitting diode LED pulse mounted inside the helmet, with a peak wavelength of 1068 nm, used for 6 min twice daily on age-matched middle-aged subjects. The FDA- approved computerised assessment tool ANAM was adopted to quantify a series of cognitive and motor activities in the treated groups.Results A signiﬁcant improvement in motor function, memory and processing speed was observed in MCI aged individuals with PBM- compared to placebo-treated group. No adverse effects were reported.Conclusions PBM therapy may be a promising new non-invasive approach for middle-aged individuals with MCI.
It is aging and not antiretroviral therapy that is the strongest risk factor for chronic pain in HIV-positive population?
Authors: Kowalski Marcin , Horban Andrzej , Rongies Witold , Slomka Bartosz , Shahnazaryan Karen
Published: October 2019

Background Chronic pain in HIV-positive patients is a serious health problem that limits patients’ normal functioning both somatically and psychologically. The current state of knowledge on the topic is insufficient, with the underlying causes of this pain unexplained.Methods During their routine visit patients were asked to fill in a general information form and the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test Consumption (AUDIT-C) form. All patients reporting any pain were additionally asked to fill in the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) form and were subject to a brief examination performed by a physician who afterwards completed a Douleur Neuropathique en 4 Questions form (DN4). Logistic regression models were used to identify factors associated with chronic pain occurrence.Results A total of 196 HIV-positive subjects, 96 (48.9% of the study group) of subjects reporting pain within the week prior to enrollment. The reported pain was mostly (75%) limited to a single area of the body (most commonly to the lower limbs). Pain duration was reported to be >6 months previous to study enrollment by 57 subjects (59.4% of those reporting pain). Most subjects were undergoing combination antiretroviral therapy (cART).Conclusions The prevalence of chronic pain in the studied population of HIV-positive Polish patients was high in comparison with other HIV-positive and HIV-negative patient populations. The most prominent risk factor for chronic pain in the study group was age, which poses an important clinical and epidemiological problem due to the aging of the HIV-positive population. It is imperative to develop cooperation protocols for specialist HIV treatment clinics, pain treatment clinics, and rehabilitation units.
Combining Spatial and Temporal Corn Silage Yield Variability for Management Zone Development
Authors: Kharel Tulsi P. , Maresma Angel , Czymmek Karl J. , Oware Erasmus K. , Ketterings Quirine M.
Published: October 2019

Precision agriculture requires an understanding of yield variability. The objectives of this study were to (i) document the temporal and spatial variability of corn (Zea mays L.) silage yields on dairy farms in New York, and (ii) derive farm‐based management zones that account for both types of variability. Silage yield data from 847 fields (9084 ha; six farms) were collected by yield monitoring systems between 2015 and 2017. Raw yield data were cleaned of errors via a standardized postharvest data cleaning protocol. The whole‐farm area‐weighted average yield across years and the temporal SD of yield across years for fields with 3 yr of data were used to divide each field into 10‐ by 10‐m grid‐cells. Each grid‐cell was assigned a quadrant (Q), with Q1 and Q4 having consistently higher and lower yield than the farm average yield, respectively; Q2 having variable but higher yield than the farm average; and Q3 having variable and lower yield than the farm average. The evaluation showed variability in average yield per farm, yield per field, and within‐field yield, in addition to variability across years. Spatial and temporal variability were uncorrelated, suggesting that management zones need to consider both spatial and temporal variability. The area per farm classified as variable (Q2 and Q3) ranged from 30 to 44%, illustrating the importance of implementing precision agriculture technologies and in‐season management adjustments. Research is needed to determine the optimum number of zones per farm and the number of crop years to include in developing yield stability zones.

Core Ideas

Corn silage yield monitors collect relevant yield data for dairy farmers.

Management zones can be developed from yield stability maps.

Both temporal and spatial variability are important factors to consider.

A yield‐stability‐based approach can generate precision management zones.
Postemergence Herbicide Applications Impact Canada Thistle Control and Spring Wheat Yields
Authors: Zargar Meisam , Bayat Maryam , Lyashko Marina , Chauhan Bhagirath
Published: October 2019

Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense L.) growing in spring wheat (Triticum aestivum) is difficult to control for several reasons. First, it is a perennial weed that has an extensive root system. Second, the cash‐crop wheat prevents the use of many chemicals, and third, Canada thistle is becoming resistant to many single action herbicides. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of postemergence herbicide applications on Canada thistle control growing in a spring wheat field. Replicated studies conducted in Russia between 2015 and 2017 evaluated the impact of different herbicide mixtures on Canada thistle control. The formulated mixtures of (iodosulfuron/mesosulfuron/antidote mefenpyr‐diethyl) mixed with triasulfuron and metsulfuron and triasulfuron + metsulfuron increased wheat yields 48 to 60% and provided the greatest (>85%) Canada thistle suppression in all experiments. Generally, (aminopyralid/florasulam), triasulfuron and (2,4‐D/florasulam) provided little control. It can be concluded that in all treatments, the herbicide mixtures did not provide 100% control, and therefore care must be used to prevent the creation of herbicide resistant Canada thistle.

Core Ideas

Formulated mixtures of herbicides containing (iodosulfuron/mesosulfuron/antidote mefenpyr‐diethyl) and triasulfuron plus metsulfuron provided the most effective Canada thistle suppression.

Canada thistle was better controlled at the early stage of spring wheat.

Herbicide mixtures containing multiple modes of action was more effective than a single mode of action herbicide in the control of Canada thistle in wheat.
Genetic Improvement in Resistance to Striga in Tropical Maize Hybrids
Authors: Menkir Abebe , Meseka Silvestro
Published: October 2019

Striga hermonthica (Del.) Benth parasitizes maize (Zea mays L.) in sub‐Saharan Africa, causing yield losses of up to 100% under severe infestation. Hybrid maize breeding for polygenic resistance to Striga has been undertaken at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) since the 1980s. This study was conducted to estimate genetic gain in grain yield and associated traits in a set of 32 maize hybrids developed over three breeding periods under artificial Striga‐infested and noninfested conditions for 4 yr. The results of regression analyses showed a linear annual yield gain of 3.2% with a mean increase of 93.7 kg ha−1 yr−1 under Striga infestation, much of which was primarily associated with significant reductions of 2.6% yr−1 in Striga damage symptoms and 5.5% yr−1 in the number of emerged parasites at 10 wk after planting. Other traits associated with grain yield including plant height and number of ears per plant increased, whereas silking days, ear aspect, and anthesis–silking interval decreased over time. On average, hybrids developed after the 1990s yielded 64% more and displayed 61% less parasite emergence and 30% less parasite damage at 10 wk after planting compared with hybrids developed before the 1990s. These improvements were achieved with increases in grain yield, early silking, reduced anthesis–silking interval, and resistance to ear rot under noninfested conditions. The trends in breeding progress achieved during this time period appear to be in the right direction, highlighting the potential that exists to further reduce yield losses to S. hermonthica in hybrids.
Comparing simulations of green roof hydrological processes by SWMM and HYDRUS-1D
Authors: Haowen Xie , Yawen Wu , Luping Wang , Weilin Luo , Wenqi Zhou , Hong Zhou , Yichen Yan , Jun Liu
Published: October 2019

Green roofs are a sustainable, low-impact development technique. They can reduce peak stormwater runoff and runoff volume and improve the quality of runoff from individual buildings and developments, which can lower the risk of frequent urban flooding and improve the quality of receiving waters. Few studies have compared different types of green roof models under the same rainfall intensities; thus, in this study, the predictions of a non-linear storage reservoirs model, Storm Water Management Model (SWMM), and a physical process model (HYDRUS-1D) were discussed. Both models were compared against measured data obtained from a series of laboratory experiments, designed to represent different storm categories and rainfall events. It was concluded that the total runoff of the SWMM model is always less than that of HYDRUS-1D. The maximum flowrate of the SWMM model is more than that of HYDRUS-1D during all events.
Frecuencia de anticuerpos contra el virus de la leucosis bovina (VLB) en leche de tanque
Authors: García Naranjo Ricardo , Olivera-Angel Martha
Published: October 2019

Objetivo. Determinar presencia de anticuerpos contra VLB en muestras de leche de tanques, en varios departamentos de Colombia. Materiales y métodos. De 2220 muestras llegadas al laboratorio de calidad de la leche de la Universidad de Antioquia para análisis de calidad para pago de una quincena en el mes de mayo de 2016 se seleccionaron 329 al azar y de manera ponderada según el número de muestras disponibles para cada uno de los 7 departamentos participantes. Estas muestras fueron sometidas a la prueba de ELISA para determinar la presencia de anticuerpos contra VLB. Resultados. El resultado principal de este análisis al azar de tanques de leche en busca de anticuerpos contra BLV, fue la positividad de los predios en rangos que oscilan entre el 57 y el 100%; el abordaje de este problema de salud bovina en Colombia es posible mediante las muestras de leche de tanque que rutinariamente llegan a los laboratorios de análisis de calidad. Conclusiones. La infección con BLV está presente en Colombia, el establecimiento de programas de control se podría hacer aprovechando las muestras de leche que se envían de rutina a los laboratorios acreditados para pago.