bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of reporting completeness in exercise cancer trials a systematic review
Authors: Meneses-Echavez Jose F , Rodriguez-Prieto Indira , Elkins Mark , Martinez-Torres Javier , Bidonde Julia
Published: October 2019

Background Exercise is an effective therapeutic intervention for cancer survivors. Concerns about the completeness of reporting of exercise interventions have been raised in the literature, but without any formal analysis. This study aimed to evaluate the completeness of reporting of exercise interventions for cancer survivors in a representative sample of randomized clinical trials (RCTs). Methods We developed a pre-defined protocol. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL for exercise trials in oncology between 2010 and 2017. Pairs of independent researchers screened the records, extracted study characteristics, and TIDieR criteria. The 12-item TIDieR checklist was used to generate a score of reporting completeness, based on how much of the recommended content was reported in the included trials. Because Item 5 on the checklist has two components and Item 8 has four components, the derived score was calculated as how many of the 16 components were reported, converted to a percentage. Results We included 131 RCTs reporting 138 interventions in the analysis. Breast cancer was the most common type of cancer (69, 50%), and aerobic exercise was the most studied exercise modality (43, 30%) followed by combined aerobic and resistance training (40, 28%). Completeness of reporting ranged from 42% to 96% among the TIDieR items; none of the items was fully reported. ‘Intervention length’ was the most reported item across interventions (133, 96%), followed by ‘rationale’ (131, 95%), whereas ‘provider’ (58, 42%) and ‘how well (planned)’ (63, 46%) were the two least reported items. Half of the TIDieR items were completely reported in 50% to 70% of the interventions, and only four items were reported in more than 80% of the interventions (Items 2 and 8a to c). The seven items deemed to be core for replication (Items 3 to 9) exhibited a mean reporting of 71%, ranging from 42% to 96%. Conclusion Exercise training interventions for cancer survivors are incompletely reported across RCTs published between 2010 and 2017. The reporting of information about the provider, materials, and modifications require urgent improvements. Stronger reporting will enhance usability of trial reports by both healthcare providers and survivors, and will help to reduce research waste.
Women’s retention on the Continuum of Maternal Care Pathway in West Gojjam Zone, Ethiopia: Multilevel Analysis
Authors: Emiru Amanu Aragaw , Alene Getu Degu , Debelew Gurmesa Tura
Published: October 2019

Background: The continuum of maternal care has been one of the effective approaches for improving the health of mothers and newborns. Although a large numbers of Ethiopian women do not use maternal health services, points of drop out along the continuum are not understood well. Understanding of a particular point of maternal care dropout on the continuum, however, helps governments make effective interventions. This study aimed to assess the extent of women’s service use and the factors affecting retention on the continuum of care in West Gojjam Zone, Ethiopia.
Methods: A community based survey linked to health facility data was conducted in June 2018. Data were obtained from 1281 mothers who gave birth to their last baby within the preceding 12 months from a two-stage cluster sampling. Data were collected via face-to-face interviews using a pretested questionnaire. Multilevel logistic regression models were used to examine the effects of individual and cluster-level factors on key elements of the continuum of care. The measure of fixed effects was expressed as Odds Ratio with 95 % confidence interval.
Results: The study revealed that only 12.1% of women completed the continuum of care (ANC4+, SBA, PNC within 48 hours after birth); while, 25.1% reported not having care at any stage for their most recent birth. There were commonalities and differences in the predictors of the three indicators of maternal health service utilization. Variables related to services received during antenatal care such as early initiation of ANC (AOR=7.53, 95%CI, 2.94, 19.29) and receiving proper contents (AOR=3.31, 95%CI, 1.08, 10.16) were among the predictors significantly associated with the completion of the continuum of care.
Conclusions: The continuum of maternal care completion rate was extremely low, indicating that women were not getting the maximum possible health benefit from existing health services. Factors influencing each of the three indicators of maternal care service revealed to operate at various levels - individual, household, community, and facility. Since antenatal care is one of the basic gateways for subsequent use of maternal services, strategies that aimed to improve maternal health service utilization should target early initiation and antenatal care quality.
Impact of secondary roads on wildlife of coastal center region Portugal and differences between before and post fire.
Authors: Cruz Tiago Miguel Regateiro , Lima Joana , Luis António , Azeiteiro Ulisses Miranda
Published: October 2019

Background Anthropogenic activities affect ecosystems creating stress and new disturbances. Among these anthropogenic activities, we highlight roads that are main cause of habitat segmentation. As roads were built to accommodate traffic in rural areas, rate of vehicle-wildlife collisions has significantly expanded, thereby causing a direct decrease in population size. This study was conducted in Portugal (country's western central coast) and assessed impact of secondary roads on wildlife, as well as the influence that a catastrophic event, like a great fire, has on this wildlife. Practical work was carried out during 15 months (from October 2016 to December 2017), two consecutive days per week, first day being used for "road cleaning", that is, collection of all animals found on road, followed of their identification, and second day for morning and afternoon collection and identification of dead animals found on same tracks. Results In Agricultural Zone, vertebrate deaths on the road covered 17 species. Birds were the most affected , followed by amphibians, mammals and reptiles. The most fragile species were Passer domesticus and Salamandra salamandra. Two hotspots were recognized, one on each road. In Forestral Zone, vertebrate deaths on road included 26 species. Mammals were most vulnerable in this area followed by birds, amphibians and reptiles. Bufo bufo and Salamandra salamandra were the most vulnerable species. On the contrary, differences between roads composition were clear: there were only deaths on asphalted roads. Differences between before and after fire are evident Conclusions In this study, it was concluded that different zones and therefore different habitats should be worked on separately and that mitigation measures should be implemented as a priority in so-called "hotspots". This work highlights importance of secondary roads as a source of mortality for wildlife, and these should not be ignored. As far as macadam roads are concerned, they are not a threat to vertebrate populations in municipality of Mira. In future, it would be important to improve this work by including volume of traffic on roads and recording kilometers at which animals were collected. Results before and after fire illustrate the impact of this catastrophic event on wildlife.
Cytological evidence of BSD2 functioning in both chloroplast division and dimorphic chloroplast formation in maize leave
Authors: Li Heying , Bai Mei , Jiang Xingshan , Shen Rongxin , Wang Huina , Wang Haiyang , Wu Hong
Published: October 2019

Background: Maize bsd2 ( bundle sheath defective2 ) is a classical C 4 mutant with defective C 4 photosynthesis, accompanied with reduced accumulation of Rubisco (ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase oxygenase) and aberrant mature chloroplast morphology in the bundle sheath (BS) cells. However, as a hypothetical chloroplast chaperone, the effects of BSD2 on C 4 chloroplast development have not been fully examined yet, which precludes a full appreciation of BSD2 function in C 4 photosynthesis. The aims of our study are to find out the role of BSD2 in regulating chloroplasts development in maize leaves, and to add new insights into our understanding of C 4 biology. Results: We found that at the chloroplast maturation stage, the thylakoid membranes of chloroplasts in the BS and mesophyll (M) cells became significantly looser, and the grana of chloroplasts in the M cells became thinner stacking in the bsd2 mutant when compared with the wild type plant. Moreover, at the early chloroplast development stage, the number of dividing chloroplasts and the chloroplast division rate are both reduced in the bsd2 mutant, compared with wild type. Quantitative reverse transcriptase-PCR analysis revealed that the expression of both thylakoid formation-related genes and chloroplast division-related genes is significantly reduced in the bsd2 mutants. Further, we showed that BSD2 interacts physically with the large submit of Rubisco (LS) in Bimolecular Fluorescence Complementation assay. Conclusions: Our combined results suggest that BSD2 plays an essential role in regulating the division and differentiation of the dimorphic BS and M chloroplasts, and that it acts at a post-transcriptional level to regulate LS stability or assembly of Rubisco.
Partial Plantar Fasciotomy Using Endoscope with Inner Two-Channel Portals Produced Better Functional Outcomes Than Mini-Open Procedures for The Treatment of Refractory Plantar Fasciitis
Authors: Feng Shi-Ming , Wang Ai-Guo , Zhang Zai-Yi
Published: October 2019

Objective: To evaluate the clinical efficacy of partial fasciotomy using two-channel arthroscope in the treatment of refractory plantar fasciitis, and to compare it with the clinical effects of partial fasciotomy using minimally invasive open. Methods: Sixty-two patients with refractory fasciitis admitted from January 2015 to July 2017 were randomly assigned to the arthroscopic group and the open surgery group. Arthroscopic partial section was performed using endoscope with inner two-channel portals. The open surgery group underwent partial sacral fascia resection with minimally invasive medial incision. Then compare the pain visual analogue scale (VAS), the American foot and ankle surgery association score (AOFAS), the calcaneodynia score (CS), and the medical outcomes short form 36-item (SF-36) health survey between the two groups. Results: All patients were followed up for at least 24 months, and there was no difference in follow-up between two groups. At the last follow-up, the patient's plantar pain symptoms completely disappeared. There was no recurrence of the bone spurs, and the ankle and foot movements were normal. There was no statistically significant difference in VAS, AOFAS, and CS scores between the two groups. The SF-36 score of the arthroscopy group is significantly higher than the open surgery group. Conclusions: Arthroscopic partial fascia resection with medial access provides better clinical outcomes than the open minimally-invasive surgery. Arthroscopic partial fasciotomy with the medial access provides a new option better than the open minimally-invasive surgery for postoperative daily life.
Spontaneous malignant transformation of ovarian surface epithelial cells correlates with EMT alteration and stemness acquisition
Authors: Li Bingyan , Zhang Hemei , Guo Yi , Liu Lizhi , Hou Yongfeng , Wang Ping , Jiang Fei , Zhang Zengli , Hei Tom K
Published: October 2019

Background In order to complete the physiological function of postovulatory repair during repeated ovulation, the ovarian surface epithelium (OSE) not only has to undergo epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), but also possess the properties of somatic stem-like cells. However, there is no evidence to indicate that both EMT alteration and stemness acquisition are linked to epithelial ovarian carcinomas.Methods In this study, we established a cell model of spontaneous oncogenic transformation of mouse OSE (MOSE). The cell proliferation was assessed using clonogenic survival and soft agar. The self-renewal of cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) was determined by spheroid culture. CD44 + /CD117 + cells were analyzed using flow cytometer. The PCR array was used to determine the EMT-related mRNA level. Expression of pan-keratin, vimentin, E-cadherin, Snail1 and Slug were detected using western-blotting and immunofluorescences, respectively. The tumorigenesis were monitored by limiting dilution assay in vitro and in vivo .Results Based on morphological change, chromosomal number and proliferating ability, we defined three sequential stages of transformed cells as early, intermediate and late MOSE cells, respectively. We found that MOSE cells had dual characteristics of not only epithelial but mesenchymal nature as well. Over time, MOSE cells spontaneously developed characteristics of malignant cells and generated tumor nodules expressing both Pan-keratin and Vimentin. Furthermore, we found that the neoplastic transformation of MOSE was accompanied by continuous EMT-inducing signals including Snail1 and Slug. Concurrently, the increase of CD44 + /CD117 + cells and their self-renewal ability were associated with the progression of spontaneous neoplastic transformation of MOSE cells in vitro. Conclusion These results indicated that both EMT alteration and stemness acquisition were closely correlated with the spontaneous malignant progression of MOSE cells. Our findings provide new insights into the future to combat epithelial ovarian carcinomas.
Population genomics of Vibrionaceae isolated from an endangered oasis reveals local adaptation after an environmental perturbation.
Authors: Souza Valeria , Vazquez-Rosas-Landa Mirna , Ponce-Soto Gabriel Yaxal , Aguirre-Liguori Jonás A. , Thakur Shalabh , Scheinvar Enrique , Barrera-Redondo Josué , Ibarra-Laclette Enrique , Guttman David S. , Eguiarte Luis E.
Published: October 2019

Background In bacteria, pan-genomes are the result of the evolutionary "tug of war" between selection and horizontal gene transfer (HGT). High rates of HGT increase the genetic pool and the effective population size, resulting in open pan-genomes. In contrast, selective pressures can lead to local adaptation by purging the variation introduced by HGT, resulting in closed pan-genomes and clonal lineages. In this study, we explored both hypotheses elucidating the pan-genome of Vibrionaceae isolates after a perturbation event in the endangered oasis of Cuatro Ciénegas Basin (CCB), Mexico, and looking for signals of adaptation to the environments in their genomes.Results We obtained 42 genomes of Vibrionaceae distributed in six lineages, two of them did not showed any close reference strain in databases. Five of the lineages showed closed pan-genomes and were associated to either water or sediment environment; their high effective population size ( N e ) estimates suggest that these lineages are not from a recent origin. The only clade with an open pan-genome was found in both environments and was formed by ten genetic groups with low N e , suggesting a recent origin. The recombination and mutation estimators (r/m) ranged from 0.0052 to 2.7249, which are similar to oceanic Vibrionaceae estimations; however, we identified 367 gene families with signals of positive selection, most of them found in the core genome; suggesting that despite recombination, natural selection moves the Vibrionaceae CCB lineages to local adaptation purging the genomes and keeping closed pan-genome patterns. Moreover, we identify 598 SNPs associated with an unstructured environment; some of the genes under this SNPs were related to sodium transport.Conclusions Different lines of evidence suggest that the sampled Vibrionaceae, are part of the rare biosphere usually living under famine conditions. Two of these lineages were reported for the first time. Most Vibrionaceae lineages of CCB are adapted to their microhabitats rather than to the sampled environments. This pattern of adaptation is concordant with the association of closed pan-genomes and local adaptation.
Characterisation of multiple heavy metal resistance loci in the genome of the novel species Cupriavidus neocaledonicus STM 6070, a nickel- and zinc-tolerant Mimosa pudica microsymbiont isolated from mining site soil
Authors: Klonowska Agnieszka , Moulin Lionel , Ardley Julie , Braun Florence , Gollagher Margaret , Zandberg Jaco Daniel , Marinova Dora , Huntemann Marcel , Reddy T.B.K. , Varghese Neha , Woyke Tanja , Ivanova Natalia , Seshadri Rekha , Kyrpides Nikos , Reeve Wayne
Published: October 2019

Background
Cupriavidus strain STM 6070 was isolated from nickel-rich mine roadside soil near Koniambo massif, New Caledonia, using the invasive legume trap host Mimosa pudica. STM 6070 is a heavy metal-tolerant strain that is highly effective at fixing nitrogen with M. pudica. Here we have provided an updated taxonomy for STM 6070 and described salient features of the annotated genome, focusing on heavy metal resistance (HMR) loci and heavy metal efflux (HME) systems.
Results
The 6,771,773 bp high-quality-draft genome consists of 107 scaffolds containing 6,118 protein-coding genes. ANI values show that STM 6070 is a new species of Cupriavidus. The STM 6070 symbiotic region was syntenic with that of the M. pudica -nodulating Cupriavidus taiwanensis LMG 19424T. In contrast to the nickel and zinc sensitivity of C. taiwanensis strains, STM 6070 grew at high Ni2+ and Zn2+ concentrations. The STM 6070 genome contains 55 genes, located in 12 clusters, that encode HMR structural proteins belonging to the RND, MFS, CHR, ARC3, CDF and P-ATPase protein superfamilies. These HMR molecular determinants are putatively involved in arsenic (ars), chromium (chr), cobalt-zinc-cadmium (czc), copper (cop, cup), nickel (nie and nre), and silver and/or copper (sil) resistance. Seven of these HMR clusters were common to five symbiotic and three non-symbiotic Cupriavidus species, while four clusters were specific to STM 6070, with three of these being associated with insertion sequences. Within the specific STM 6070 HMR clusters, three novel HME-RND systems (nieIC cep nieBA, czcC2B2A2, and hmxB zneAC zneR hmxS) were identified, which constitute new candidate genes for nickel and zinc resistance.
Conclusions
STM 6070 belongs to a new Cupriavidus species, for which we have proposed the name Cupriavidus neocaledonicus sp. nov.. STM6070 harbours a pSym with a high degree of gene conservation to the pSyms of M. pudica -nodulating C. taiwanensis strains, probably as a result of recent horizontal transfer. The presence of specific HMR clusters, associated with transposase genes, suggests that the selection pressure of the New Caledonian ultramafic soils has driven the specific adaptation of STM 6070 to heavy-metal-rich soils via horizontal gene transfer.
Genetic diversity among cultivated beets (Beta vulgaris) assessed via population-based whole genome sequences
Authors: McGrath J. Mitchell , Galewski Paul J.
Published: October 2019

Diversification on the basis of utilization is a hallmark of Beta vulgaris (beet). Crop improvement and management activities are segregated by crop type, preserving unique genome diversity and differentiation, with occasional introgressions between diverged lineages for specific traits. Full interfertility is typically retained in crosses between these groups and more traits may be accessible if the genetic basis of crop type lineage were known, along with available genetic markers to effect efficient transfer (e.g., via backcrossing). Beta vulgaris L. (2n =18) is a species complex composed of diverged lineages (e.g., crop types), including table, leaf (chard), fodder, and sugar beet. Using population genetic and statistical methods with whole genome sequence data from pooled samples of 23 beet cultivars and breeding lines, relationships were determined between populations based on identity-by-state and shared genetic variation among lineages. Distribution of genetic variation within and between crop types showed extensive shared (e.g. non-unique) genetic variation. Lineage specific variation (e.g. apomorphy) within crop types supported a shared demographic history within each crop type, while principal components analysis revealed strong crop type differentiation. Relative contributions of specific chromosomes to genome wide differentiation were ascertained, with each chromosome revealing a different pattern of differentiation with respect to crop type. Inferred population size history inferences for each crop type helped integrate selection history for each lineage, and highlighted potential genetic bottlenecks in the development of cultivated beet lineages. A complex evolutionary history of cultigroups in Beta vulgaris was demonstrated, involving lineage divergence as a result of selection and reproductive isolation. Clear delineation of crop types was obfuscated by historical gene flow and common ancestry (e.g. admixture and introgression, and sorting of ancestral polymorphism) which served to share genome variation between crop types and, likely, important phenotypic characters. Table beet was well differentiated as a crop type, and shared more genetic variation within than among crop types. The sugar beet group was not quite as well differentiated as the table beet group. Fodder and chard groups were intermediate between the table and chard groups, perhaps the result of less intensive selection for their end use.
Clinical significance and therapeutic implication of CD200 in pancreatic cancer
Authors: Kinoshita Shoichi , Sho Masayuki , Akahori Takahiro , Nishiwada Satoshi , Nagai Minako , Migita Kazuhiro , Obara Shinsaku , Ouji-Sageshima Noriko , Ito Toshihiro , Ikeda Naoya
Published: October 2019

Background

CD200, a negative T cell regulator as well as a cancer stem cell marker, is a significant prognostic factor and potential therapeutic target in specific cancers. However, the clinical significance of CD200 is unknown in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC).

Methods

CD200 was evaluated in 220 resected PDAC patients. Surgery was performed with or without neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACRT), and adjuvant therapy was administered with systemic therapy or systemic therapy added with hepatic arterial infusion (HAI) therapy. We investigated the clinicopathological outcomes associated with CD200, in relation to the administered multimodal treatment. We further evaluated the impact of the immunological and cancer stem cell properties associated with CD200.

Results

NACRT patients had a lower average age, lower lymph node metastasis, higher negative surgical margins, and higher HAI administration rate, compared to upfront surgery (US) patients. NACRT was associated with better OS, and higher CD200 expression (66.4% vs. 32.2%, P<0.001) compared to US. CD200 was an independent poor prognostic factor in NACRT (hazard ratio 2.51; 95% confidence interval 1.35-4.66; P = 0.004), but not in US patients. In NACRT patients, the hepatic recurrence rate was relatively high in CD200+ cases despite HAI therapy. CD200 was associated with significantly lower CD4+, CD8+, and CD45RO+ tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte levels. Furthermore, the correlation of CD200 with pancreatic cancer stem cell markers CD44/CD24/ESA was stronger in irradiated human pancreatic cancer cells.

Conclusions

Our data highlight novel roles for CD200 in immune evasion as well as therapy resistance in pancreatic cancer.
Prognostic significance of preoperative plasma fibrinogen levels in primary gastrointestinal stromal tumours: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Song Shibo , Cao Xianglong , Pan Hongda , Hu Maolin , Yan Qiuxia , Song Jinghai , Yang Hua , Zhao Gang , Xiao Gang
Published: October 2019

Background Improved prediction of prognosis for gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GIST) has become increasingly important since the introduction of small molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Here, we aimed to evaluate the prognostic significance of preoperative plasma fibrinogen (Fib) levels in patients with primary GIST and to analyze their correlations with clinicopathological characteristics.Methods A total of 201 previously untreated patients with primary GIST who had underwent radical surgery at our institution between October 2004 and July 2018 were enrolled. Patient demographics, clinicopathological characteristics, preoperative plasma Fib levels and recurrence-free survival (RFS) were analyzed. The optimal cut-off value for Fib levels was calculated using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. RFS, the primary endpoint, was calculated by the Kaplan–Meier method and compared by the log-rank test. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression models were calculated.Results Patients in high Fib group had a shorter RFS compared with low Fib group (P < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, high preoperative plasma Fib levels were detected as an independent adverse prognostic factor (P = 0.004, hazard ratio 3.443, 95% confidence interval 1.498‒7.916). Furthermore, high preoperative plasma Fib levels also indicated a poor prognosis within the modified National Institutes of Health (mNIH) high-risk subgroup (P = 0.013). In addition, preoperative plasma Fib levels were showed a positive correlation with several prognostic factors, and even linearly with tumour size (Spearman correlation coefficient [ r ] = 0.411, P < 0.001).Conclusions High preoperative plasma Fib levels may indicate a poor prognosis in patients with primary GIST. As a cost-effective biomarker, preoperative assessment of plasma Fib levels may help to further risk stratification for patients with mNIH high-risk GIST and instruct the application of target therapy.
Investigating the roots of the nonlinear Luttinger liquid phenomenology
Authors: Markhof Lisa , Pletyukov Mikhail , Meden Volker
Published: October 2019

The nonlinear Luttinger liquid phenomenology of one-dimensional
correlated Fermi systems is an attempt to describe the effect of the
band curvature beyond the Tomonaga-Luttinger liquid paradigm. It relies
on the observation that the dynamical structure factor of the
interacting electron gas shows a logarithmic threshold singularity when
evaluated to first order perturbation theory in the two-particle
interaction. This term was interpreted as the linear one in an expansion
which was conjectured to resum to a power law. A field theory, the
mobile impurity model, which is constructed such that it provides the
power law in the structure factor, was suggested to be the proper
effective model and used to compute the single-particle spectral
function. This forms the basis of the nonlinear Luttinger liquid
phenomenology. Surprisingly, the second order perturbative contribution
to the structure factor was so far not studied. We first close this gap
and show that it is consistent with the conjectured power law. Secondly,
we critically assess the steps leading to the mobile impurity
Hamiltonian. We show that the model does not allow to include the effect
of the momentum dependence of the (bulk) two-particle potential. This
dependence was recently shown to spoil power laws in the single-particle
spectral function which previously were believed to be part of the
Tomonaga-Luttinger liquid universality. Although our second order
results for the structure factor are consistent with power-law scaling,
this raises doubts that the conjectured nonlinear Luttinger liquid
phenomenology can be considered as universal. We conclude that more work
is required to clarify this.
Influence of cost drivers on value-oriented management of investment activity of companies
Authors: Andriushchenko Kateryna , Tepliuk Mariia , Boniar Svitlana , Ushenko Natalya , Liezina Anastasiia
Published: October 2019

Nowadays, there is a constant need to build an appropriate system for assessing the company`s value for shareholders, which implies that the company chooses an adequate model based on drivers, which allow making decisions at all management levels associated with investment activity, ensuring an increase in value for owners. The purpose of the article is to improve the methodology for assessing the influence of drivers as a critical element of value-oriented management on the investment activity of companies. The analysis technique consists of two parts. In the first part, regression models of factors influence and cost drivers on the value multipliers and shareholder profits were built. Based on the interpretation of the coefficients obtained, it should be noted that the cost-effectiveness of assets has the most powerful impact on the market value of the company and shareholder`s profitability. Thus, the presence of sustainable competitive advantages, resulting simultaneously in higher company value and profitability, the variable profitability in its turn does not fully reflect the potential for generating cash flows in the future. In the second part of the analysis, the authors built the probit models of the factors influence and cost drivers on the probability that the value multipliers of the market average values and the total profitability of shareholders are above the market average. Based on the relative strength model of the influence factors and drivers of value on value-based management, the recommendations were formulated.
Supplements and adjustments to the method of the assessment of the effective dose from the external exposure of the patients
Authors: Golikov V. Yu. , Chipiga L. A. , Vodovatov A. V. , Sarycheva S. S.
Published: October 2019

The current study was aimed at the justification and proposal of the supplements and corrections that are planned for the implementation in the updated version of the Methodical guidelines “Control of the effective doses of the patients from the X-ray examinations” (MU 2.6.1.2944-11). This study included estimation and/ or update of the values of the conversion coefficients from measurable dose characteristics (entrance-surface dose, dose-area product) to the effective dose for various X-ray examinations. Estimation of the updated conversion coefficients was based both on the home analytical and experimental studies based on the modern protocols of the X-ray examinations, and the results of the published data. Updated values of the conversion coefficients were presented for: fluoroscopic examinations of the gastro-intestinal tract with barium media for adult and pediatric patients; interventional examinations of the adult patients; computed tomography examinations for adult and pediatric patients; dental intraoral examinations. For the first time, the methods of the estimation of the effective dose and corresponding conversion coefficients were presented for: computed tomography of the extremities, whole body, scan of several anatomic regions; angiographic examinations of the heart vessels of the pediatric patients of different age categories; slot-scanning X-ray examinations; bone densitometry.
Tririum in urine in residents of Ozyorsk, the Chelyabinsk region in 2016
Authors: Finashov L. V. , Vostrotin V. V. , Yanov A. Yu.
Published: October 2019

Objectives. To create the model of relation between volume activity of tritium in urine of Ozyorsk residents and physical and biological factors. To define the correspondence of internal exposure doses of Ozyorsk residents obtained from tritium to standards and requirements of present-day radiation security system. In the framework of the objectives the following tasks were solved: measurement of volume activity of tritium in the urine; detection of main factors affecting the volume activity of tritium in the urine; estimation of the distribution of committed effective dose equivalent of internal exposure due to tritium intake in 2016 among Ozyorsk residents under stable radiation environment.

Material and methods. 30 samples of urine were taken from resident of Ozyorsk Chelyabinsk region never employed at the Mayak Production Association in 2016. Measurement of tritium volume activity in the urine was performed using up-to-date ultra low level beta spectrometer Quantulus-1220. A questionary was developed that allowed collection of individual data on the water intake regime, on the occupational activity and the living conditions of people under study. Statistical processing was performed using software Excel-2013 and R. In order to develop models of dependency of tritium volume activity in urine of the residents from continuous and/or category variables we used correlation and regression methods of analysis. In order to compare two samples by mean value of tritium volume activity Student t-criterion was used. In order to verify normality of dose distribution Shapiro-Wilk test was used.

Results. Volume activity of tritium in urine of adult Ozyorsk residents in 2016 was in average 18.5 ± 1.1 Bq/dm3, volume activity of tritium in urine of children – 12.6 ± 2.3 Bq/dm3 in average. Major statistical characteristics of estimates of committed effective dose equivalent from tritium in Ozyorsk residents due to intake on 2016 under stable radiation environment obtained from a sample of 30 individuals were the following: minimum value made 0.07 µSv, mean value was 0.27 µSv, coefficient of variation made 36%, maximum value made 0.49 µSv. A model of dependence of tritium volume activity in urine of Ozyorsk residents from the water supply source was obtained.

Conclusions. Estimates of committed effective dose equivalent of internal exposure from tritium among Ozyorsk residents due to intake in 2016 made: mean value of committed effective dose equivalent was 0.027 and maximum value made 0.05% from the annual effective dose limit for residents under unifactor tritium intake. In 2016, the levels of tritium volume activity in the bodies of adult and children population of Ozyorsk city depended on volume activity of tritium in drinking water supply sourced more than on the age. As of 2016, under stable radiation environment at Mayak Production Association, tritium did not pose any threat for Ozyorsk population.
Effect of Canagliflozin, an SGLT2 Inhibitor, in Comparison with Atorvastatin on Dexamethasone-Induced Hepatic Steatosis in Albino Rats
Authors: Ahmed Eman I. , Shaaban Amany M. , Abdel Latif Abdel Karim M.
Published: October 2019

Background:

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a chronic liver disease that is considered the most common liver disease all over the world. It causes metabolic and hepatic damage that can progress to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma.

Objective:

Our research pointed to study the preventive effects of canagliflozin (CANA) or atorvastatin (ATO) on dexamethasone-induced hepatic steatosis and dyslipidemia.

Methods:

Animals were grouped as; control group; DEX group; ATO/DEX-treated group; CANA/DE-treated group and ATO+CANA/DEX-treated group. Results: Significant elevations in GSH, SOD and CAT activities, while high significant decreases in serum GOT, GPT, ALP, urea, blood glucose, CK-MB, LDH, T.G, T.C, MDA and P.C levels were demonstrated in treated groups as compared to DEX group in the experimental periods. Also, significant reductions in SGPT, SGPT, ALP, CK-MB, LDH, T.C and T.G levels were detected in CANA/DEX group as compared to ATO/DEX group. All these results were confirmed with histopathological findings where the severe damages and fatty degeneration in both kidney and liver tissues developed by dexamethasone administration resolved by administration of atorvastatin alone or better with Canagliflozin.

Conclusion:

These results indicate that canagliflozin was as effective as atorvastatin or combination of both in reducing dyslipidemia and hepatic steatosis. The antioxidant and hypolipidemic effects of canagliflozin may be responsible for the beneficial effects.
Current Strategies and Future Perspective for the Effective Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Sharma Deep Shikha , Singh Sachin Kumar , Thakur Divya , K.R Arya , Khursheed Rubiya , Wadhwa Sheetu
Published: October 2019

Diabetes Retinopathy (DR) is one of the main complications due to diabetes. DR will
damage the retinal capillaries and block them, which causes the loss of vision. Different drugs and
therapies are used for the treatment and prevention of the DR. The most commonly used treatment
is laser technology and combination therapy, along with some drugs. But these drugs possess side
effects in the form of cataract, glaucoma, and complete blindness of the eye. The main strategy to
overcome In DR, medicines with minimum side effects or maximum therapeutic effects are used.
This article emphasizes the current strategy used for the treatment of DR with allopathic as well as
herbal drugs.
Molecular Characterization of Fasciola and Dicrocoelium Species Isolated from Ruminant Livestock in Qazvin, Iran
Authors: Shahnazi Mojtaba , Ebadi Maryam , Abbaspoor Zahra , Hajialilo Elham , Javadi Amir , Heydarian Peyman , Saraei Mehrzad , Alizadeh Safar Ali
Published: October 2019

Introduction:

Fascioliasis and dicrocoeliasis are the most frequent zoonotic diseases
with increasing human health problems in different parts of Iran. Two species, Fasciola hepatica
(F. hepatica) and Fasciola gigantica (F. gigantica), are spread in the country. Molecular approaches
have a decisive role in identifying both the species. The aim of this study was to detect
Fasciola spp. and Dicrocoelium spp. by amplifying the ITS-2 and 28S rDNA gene sequence.

Methods:

Overall, 30 infected liver samples were collected from the livestock of Qazvin, Iran.
The adult flukes were collected from different livestock. DNA extraction and PCR amplification
of ribosomal RNA gene region (ITS2) and 28S rDNA gene fragment were conducted and a
phylogenetic tree was constructed.

Results:

All the isolates obtained from the cattle (No: 7) and 82.6% (No: 19) of sheep isolates were
infected with F. hepatica species, whereas 17.4% (No: 4) of sheep isolates were infected with F.
gigantica. It was also shown that F. hepatica was the predominant species of Fasciola present in
the region. All the specimens were infected with Dicrocoelium dendriticum (D. dendriticum).

Conclusion:

Both the species of Fasciola were found in Qazvin. D. dendriticum was the sole infecting
species of the Dicrocoelium genus in the livestock of the city of Qazvin. Further research
studies are needed to determine the intermediate host of the parasites in the region.
Biology and Reproductive Behaviour of Apanteles taragamae Viereck (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), a Larval Parasitoid of Diaphania indica Saunders (Lepidoptera: Crambidae)
Authors: Puspitaningtyas Nurul Novianti , Buchori Damayanti , Nurkomar Ihsan
Published: October 2019

Apanteles taragamae (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) is a larval parasitoid of Diaphania indica (Saunders) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae), a minor pest of Cucurbitaceae crop. The aim of this study was to determine the behavior and biology of A. taragamae. The study was conducted under laboratory conditions by exposing 930 larvae of D. indica to be parasitized by 11 adult female parasitoid of A. taragamae (1 day old), which have been mated 24 hours prior to expose. Each female was exposed to 15 larvae/day until they died. The parameters used to measure the biology of A. taragamae were fecundity, longevity, and parasitism. Results showed that the longevity of adult females was 5.64 days, the parasitism was 96%, the number of egg laid was 76.40/day, the total number of eggs laid was 611.18, and potential fecundity was 752.73 egg.
The Knowledge and Attitude of Integrated Pest Management Farmers Field Schools Alumni toward the Use of Pesticides in Klaten, Central Java, Indonesia
Authors: Kusumawardani Andriarti , Martono Edhi , Trisyono Y. Andi , Putra Nugroho Susetya
Published: October 2019

The field schools in Indonesia employ an extension alternative model that is considered appropriate to change the habits and behavior of farmers to make them IPM experts in their field. This study was conducted to understand the behavior (knowledge and attitude) of farmers who have joined field schools, i.e. Integrated Pest Management Farmers Field School (IPM-FFS) and Landscape Integrated Pest Management (Landscape IPM), toward the use of pesticides in Klaten, Central Java, Indonesia. The research used a survey method with purposively selected respondents comprising 55 farmers of the IPM alumni and 25 farmers of the Landscape IPM alumni. A descriptive analysis was conducted to analyze the farmers’ knowledge and attitude toward the use of pesticides. Mann-Whitney U-test analysis was performed using Statistical Product and Service Solution (SPSS) version 23, to compare the knowledge and attitude of farmers regarding the use of pesticides. The results showed that the knowledge of farmers of  the Landscape IPM alumni regarding the use of pesticides was higher than that of farmers of the IPM-FFS alumni. There was no difference in the behavior of farmers between the IPM-FFS alumni and the Landscape IPM alumni regarding their attitude toward the use of pesticides.
The Effectiveness of Several Plant Extracts to Induce Rice Plant Resistance against Bacterial Leaf Blight - (Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae)
Authors: Widiantini Fitri , Ayuningdiyas Avissa , Yulia Endah , Suganda Tarkus
Published: October 2019

Resistant plants are one of the disease control techniques that considered to be effective. Resistant plants can be produced in various ways including the application of plant extracts. The aim of this study was to examine the ability of several plant extracts to increase the resistance of rice plants to bacterial leaf blight (BLB) caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo). A total of 13 plants were extracted and applied in two methods, which were seed treatment and seedling treatment which sprayed on two-week old rice seedlings. Xoo bacteria were inoculated on rice plants two weeks after planting. The observations on the intensity of BLB disease infection showed that water hyacinth extract (Eichhornia crassippes), spiny amaranth (Amaranthus spinosus) and jasmine leaves (Jasminum grandiflorum) can suppress the development of BLB disease in both application methods. The application of plant extracts as inducing agents needs to be repeated to maintain the activated plant defense mechanism.
Detection and Analysis of Protein Profile on Rice Infected by Stunting Virus with Different Severity on Ciherang and Situ Bagendit Varieties
Authors: Helina Selvi , Sulandari Sri , Hartono Sedyo , Trisyono Y. Andi
Published: October 2019

Rice stunt virus is one of the limiting factors in the decline of rice production in Indonesia. The virus consists of rice grassy stunt virus (RGSV) and rice ragged stunt virus (RRSV) that is transmitted by brown planthopper (WBC) in a persistent propagative manner. This study aimed to determine the presence of rice stunt virus in Bantul, Yogyakarta through fast detection using RT-PCR. It also aimed to learn the pattern of total protein profile of healthy and infected rice plants by the virus on different severity level in the field. The results showed that rice varieties of Ciherang and Situ Bagendit in Bantul were infected with RGSV and RRSV. They were classified as mild, moderate, severe, and failure in severity level. Homology analysis using BioEdit showed that the nucleotide sequence of RGSV in Bantul isolate had the highest percentage of nucleic acids similarity with Klaten isolate (98.1%). Meanwhile, RRSV of Bantul isolate had the highest percentage of nucleic acids similarity to Philipines isolate (99.5%). Analysis of protein profiles using SDS-PAGE showed a pattern of protein profiles formed on rice infected with the virus at different severity levels which was not found in healthy rice. These proteins presumably were nonstructural p5 and nucleocapsid protein (NCP) of RGSV with a molecular weight of ~22 and 34-35 kDa; and viral spike protein and protein capsid (S8) of RRSV with MW ~39 and ~43 kDa.
Is Reflexive Modernization also an Important Topic among Adolescents within Risk Zones. And Does it also Have Influence on the Further Biographical Unfolding?
Authors: Lundstrøm Lillian , Oeygard Lisbet
Published: October 2019

The Alternative School Day (ASD) is a project for adolescents who have difficulties in several arenas. The pupils attended ASD one day per week, and the content in the program is more practical adjusted. Inclusion as a principle are formulated in the educational legislation in many countries throughout the world; however, different special initiatives may have shown positive effects on adolescence in risk zones. Some theorists have emphasized that the normal school is based on middle class values, and for pupils with other class backgrounds, the school, represent “represent an away ground”. Further, we have debated whether reflexive modernization is an important topic also in the general knowledge within the society nowadays, with globalization, extended consumption and several risks associated with the modern society. And we are questioning whether the students could experience the immersive turning points and fateful moment in the biography, where they actually started to look upon themselves as clever and competences pupils, while attending in the ASD.The positive attention and expectation from the teachers, as well as the tasks were more practical oriented, represented the core factors in the positive outcome measures found through this study.
Drivers of Watershed Degradation and its Implications on Potable Water Supply in the Menchum River Basin of Cameroon
Authors: Kometa Cordelia Givecheh
Published: October 2019

Current anthropogenic stresses on natural systems in the Menchum River Basin of Cameroon have remained the major contributors to watershed degradation in the region. This study examines the various drivers of watershed degradation in the basin and their implications for potable water supplies. It gives an assessment of the spatio-temporal changes in land use and its effect on water yield and erosion rates, and also assesses the probable interaction of global climate change and anthropogenic factors on water yield. The study employed a combination of field observations, informal interviews and the consultation of secondary data to investigate these drivers. The data obtained were analysed using descriptive statistical techniques, and presented in both qualitative and quantitative terms. A series of maps and photographs were used to portray land use and land cover changes in the basin. It was observed that population pressure and incompatible land use changes account for watershed degradation in the basin. The implications have been increased runoff and surface overland flow, a reduction in potable water quality and quantity resulting to frequent water cuts. The paper recommends the sustainable management of watersheds whereby, all critical components need to be included into the planning process for the watercourses and their catchments.
Improving the Beam-Balanced Pumping Unit
Authors: Volokhin E. A. , Terent’ev A. N. , Volokhin A. V.
Published: October 2019

Описана усовершенствованная телескопическая конструкция головки с балансиром, электродвигателем c дистанционным управлением, возможностью менять длину плеча балансира для подготовки привода штанговой скважинной насосной установки (ШСНУ) к проведению оперативного ремонта скважин с минимальным участием человека. Усовершенствование узла станка-качалки направлено на повышение автоматизации работы, уменьшение затрат времени и трудоемкости, повышение безопасности при подготовке привода станка-качалки к подземному ремонту скважины.Представлена методика расчета на прочность подвижной и неподвижной частей телескопической конструкции головки с балансиром: определено максимальное напряжение от изгиба, коэффициент запаса при хрупком разрушении и пластической деформации, коэффициент запаса прочности на циклические нагрузки. Полученные результаты расчета соответствуют минимально допустимым коэффициентам для надежного использования станка-качалки.Приведена методика подбора электродвигателя для передвижения продольно-подвижной части плеча балансира, в которой определены необходимые параметры: частота вращения вала колеса, статическая мощность, мощность двигателя с учетом динамики разгона. Показано техническое решение лестницы с предохранительно-автоматическим отключением электродвигателя станка-качалки при несанкционированном поднятии по ней постороннего человека.