bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of donor-recipient relatedness on the plasmid conjugation frequency: a meta-analysis
Authors: Alderliesten Jesse B. , Duxbury Sarah J. N. , Zwart Mark P. , de Visser J. Arjan G. M. , Stegeman Arjan , Fischer Egil A. J.
Published: May 2020

Background

Conjugation plays a major role in the transmission of plasmids encoding antibiotic resistance genes in both clinical and general settings. The conjugation efficiency is influenced by many biotic and abiotic factors, one of which is the taxonomic relatedness between donor and recipient bacteria. A comprehensive overview of the influence of donor-recipient relatedness on conjugation is still lacking, but such an overview is important to quantitatively assess the risk of plasmid transfer and the effect of interventions which limit the spread of antibiotic resistance, and to obtain parameter values for conjugation in mathematical models. Therefore, we performed a meta-analysis on reported conjugation frequencies from Escherichia coli donors to various recipient species.

Results

Thirty-two studies reporting 313 conjugation frequencies for liquid broth matings and 270 conjugation frequencies for filter matings were included in our meta-analysis. The reported conjugation frequencies varied over 11 orders of magnitude. Decreasing taxonomic relatedness between donor and recipient bacteria, when adjusted for confounding factors, was associated with a lower conjugation frequency in liquid matings. The mean conjugation frequency for bacteria of the same order, the same class, and other classes was 10, 20, and 789 times lower than the mean conjugation frequency within the same species, respectively. This association between relatedness and conjugation frequency was not found for filter matings. The conjugation frequency was furthermore found to be influenced by temperature in both types of mating experiments, and in addition by plasmid incompatibility group in liquid matings, and by recipient origin and mating time in filter matings.

Conclusions

In our meta-analysis, taxonomic relatedness is limiting conjugation in liquid matings, but not in filter matings, suggesting that taxonomic relatedness is not a limiting factor for conjugation in environments where bacteria are fixed in space.
Application of the critical incident technique in refining a realist initial programme theory
Authors: Cunningham U. , De Brún A. , McAuliffe E.
Published: May 2020

Background

As realist methodology is still evolving, there is a paucity of guidance on how to conduct theory driven interviews. Realist researchers can therefore struggle to collect interview data that can make a meaningful contribution to refining their initial programme theory. Collecting data to inform realist Inital Programme Theories (IPTs) in healthcare contexts is further compounded due to the healthcare workers’ busy work schedules.

In this case study of team interventions in acute hospital contexts, we explore the benefits of using the Critical Incident Technique (CIT) in order to build and refine an initial programme theory. We contend that use of the CIT helps to draw on more specific experiences of “Key Informants” and therefore elicits richer and more relevant data for realist enquiry.

Methods

The five steps of the CIT were mapped against realist methods guidance and adapted into an interview framework. Specifications to identify an incident as “critical” were agreed. Probes were embedded in the interview framework to confirm, refine and/or refute previous theories.

Seventeen participants were interviewed and recordings were transcribed and imported for analysis into NVivo software. Using RAMESES guidelines, Context-Mechanism-Outcomes configurations were extrapolated from a total of 31 incidents.

Results

We found that the CIT facilitated construction of an interview format that allowed participants to reflect on specific experiences of interest. We demonstrate how the CIT strengthened initial programme theory development as it facilitated the reporting of the specifics of team interventions and the contexts and mechanisms characteristic of those experiences. As new data emerged, it was possible to evolve previous theories synthesised from the literature as well as to explore new theories.

Conclusions

Utilising a CIT framework paid dividends in terms of the relevance and usefulness of the data for refining the initial programme theory. Adapting the CIT questioning technique helped to focus the participants on the specifics relating to an incident allowing the interviewers to concentrate on probes to explore theories during the interview process. The CIT interview format therefore achieved its purpose and can be adapted for use within realist methodology.
Preference of blood pressure measurement methods by primary care doctors in Hong Kong: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Lee Eric Kam Pui , Choi Ryan Chun Ming , Liu Licheng , Gao Tiffany , Yip Benjamin Hon Kei , Wong Samuel Yeung Shan
Published: May 2020

Background

Hypertension is the most common chronic disease and is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Its screening, diagnosis, and management depend heavily on accurate blood pressure (BP) measurement. It is recommended that the diagnosis of hypertension should be confirmed or corroborated by out-of-office BP values, measured using ambulatory BP monitoring (ABPM) and home BP monitoring (HBPM). When office BP is used, automated office BP (AOBP) measurement method, which automatically provides an average of 3–5 BP readings, should be preferred. This study aimed to describe the BP measurement methods commonly used by doctors in primary care in Hong Kong, to screen, diagnose, and manage hypertensive patients.

Methods

In this cross-sectional survey, all doctors registered in the Hong Kong “Primary Care Directory” were mailed a questionnaire, asking their preferred BP-measuring methods to screen, diagnose, and manage hypertensive patients. Furthermore, we also elicited information on the usual number of office BP or HBPM readings obtained, to diagnose or manage hypertension.

Results

Of the 1738 doctors included from the directory, 445 responded. Manual measurement using a mercury or aneroid device was found to be the commonest method to screen (63.1%), diagnose (56.4%), and manage (72.4%) hypertension. There was a significant underutilisation of ABPM, with only 1.6% doctors using this method to diagnose hypertension. HBPM was used by 22.2% and 56.8% of the respondents to diagnose and manage hypertension, respectively. A quarter (26.7%) of the respondents reported using only one in-office BP reading, while around 40% participants reported using ≥12 HBPM readings. Doctors with specialist qualification in family medicine were more likely to use AOBP in clinics and to obtain the recommended number of office BP readings for diagnosis and management of hypertension.

Conclusion

Primary Care doctors in Hong Kong prefer to use manual office BP values, measured using mercury or aneroid devices, to screen, diagnose, and manage hypertension, highlighting a marked underutilisation of AOBP and out-of-office BP measuring techniques, especially that of ABPM. Further studies are indicated to understand the underlying reasons and to minimise the gap between real-life clinical practice and those recommended, based on scientific advances.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrial.gov; ref. no.: NCT03926897.
The provision of epidural analgesia during labor according to maternal birthplace: a Norwegian register study
Authors: Waldum Åsa Henning , Jacobsen Anne Flem , Lukasse Mirjam , Staff Anne Cathrine , Falk Ragnhild Sørum , Vangen Siri , Sørbye Ingvil Krarup
Published: May 2020

Background

The provision of epidural analgesia during labor is ideally a shared decision between the woman and her health care provider. However, immigrant characteristics such as maternal birthplace could affect decision-making and thus access to pain relief. We aimed to assess disparities in the provision of epidural analgesia in planned vaginal birth according to maternal region of birth.

Methods

We performed a nation-wide register study of 842,496 live-born singleton deliveries in Norway between 2000 and 2015. Maternal birthplace was categorized according to the Global Burden of Disease framework. The provision of epidural analgesia was compared in regression models stratified by parity and mode of delivery.

Results

Compared to native-born women, primiparous women from Latin America/Caribbean countries with an instrumental vaginal delivery were most likely to be provided epidural analgesia (OR 2.12, 95%CI 1.69–2.66), whilst multiparous women from Sub-Saharan Africa with a spontaneous vaginal delivery were least likely to be provided epidural analgesia (OR 0.42, 95% C 0.39–0.44). Longer residence time was associated with a higher likelihood of being provided analgesia, whereas effects of maternal education varied by Global Burden of Disease group.

Conclusions

Disparities in the likelihood of being provided epidural analgesia were observed by maternal birthplace. Further studies are needed to consider whether the identified disparities represent women’s own preferences or if they are the result of heterogeneous access to analgesia during labor.
Swedish translation and validation of the Pediatric Insomnia Severity Index
Authors: Angelhoff Charlotte , Johansson Peter , Svensson Erland , Sundell Anna Lena
Published: May 2020

Background

To increase health and well-being in young children, it is important to acknowledge and promote the child’s sleep behaviour. However, there is a lack of brief, validated sleep screening instruments for children. The aims of the study were to (1) present a Swedish translation of the PISI, (2) examine the factor structure of the Swedish version of PISI, and test the reliability and validity of the PISI factor structure in a sample of healthy children in Sweden.

Methods

The English version of the PISI was translated into Swedish, translated back into English, and agreed upon before use. Parents of healthy 3- to 10-year-old children filled out the Swedish version of the PISI and the generic health-related quality of life instrument KIDSCREEN-27 two times. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses for baseline and test-retest, structural equation modelling, and correlations between the PISI and KIDSCREEN-27 were performed.

Results

In total, 160 parents filled out baseline questionnaires (test), whereof 100 parents (63%) filled out the follow-up questionnaires (retest). Confirmative factor analysis of the PISI found two correlated factors: sleep onset problems (SOP) and sleep maintenance problems (SMP). The PISI had substantial construct and test-retest reliability. The PISI factors were related to all KIDSCREEN-27 dimensions.

Conclusions

The Swedish version of the PISI is applicable for screening sleep problems and is a useful aid in dialogues with families about sleep.
Improving the assessment of communication competencies in a national licensing OSCE: lessons learned from an experts’ symposium
Authors: Monti Matteo , Klöckner-Cronauer Christina , Hautz Stephanie C. , Schnabel Kai P. , Breckwoldt Jan , Junod-Perron Noëlle , Feller Sabine , Bonvin Raphael , Huwendiek Sören
Published: May 2020

Background

As the communication competencies of physicians are crucial for providing optimal patient care, their assessment in the context of the high-stakes Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) is of paramount importance. Despite abundant literature on the topic, evidence-based recommendations for the assessment of communication competencies in high stakes OSCEs are scarce. As part of a national project to improve communication-competencies assessments in the Swiss licensing exam, we held a symposium with national and international experts to derive corresponding guidelines.

Methods

Experts were invited on account of their recognized expertise either in teaching or assessing communication competencies, or in conducting national high-stakes OSCEs. They were asked to propose concrete solutions related to four potential areas for improvement: the station design, the rating tool, the raters’ training, and the role of standardized patients. Data gene.rated in the symposium was available for analysis and consisted of video recordings of plenary sessions, of the written summaries of group work, and the cards with participants’ personal take-home messages. Data were analyzed using a thematic analysis approach.

Results

Nine major suggestions for improving communication-competencies assessments emerged from the analysis and were classified into four categories, namely, the roles of the OSCE scenarios, rating tool, raters’ training, and simulated patients.

Conclusion

In the absence of established evidence-based guidelines, an experts’ symposium facilitated the identification of nine practical suggestions for improving the assessment of communication competencies in the context of high-stakes OSCEs. Further research is needed to test effectiveness of the suggestions and how they contribute to improvements in the quality of high-stakes communication-competencies assessment.
Correction to: The role of real-world data in the development of treatment guidelines: a case study on guideline developers’ opinions about using observational data on antibiotic prescribing in primary care
Authors: Steels Stephanie , Van der Zande Marieke , van Staa Tjeerd Pieter
Published: May 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Low-resolution pressure reactivity index and its derived optimal cerebral perfusion pressure in adult traumatic brain injury: a CENTER-TBI study
Authors:   the CENTER-TBI High Resolution ICU (HR ICU) Sub-Study Participants and Investigators, Riemann Lennart , Beqiri Erta , Smielewski Peter , Czosnyka Marek , Stocchetti Nino , Sakowitz Oliver , Zweckberger Klaus , Unterberg Andreas , Younsi Alexander
Published: May 2020

Background

After traumatic brain injury (TBI), brain tissue can be further damaged when cerebral autoregulation is impaired. Managing cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) according to computed “optimal CPP” values based on cerebrovascular reactivity indices might contribute to preventing such secondary injuries. In this study, we examined the discriminative value of a low-resolution long pressure reactivity index (LPRx) and its derived “optimal CPP” in comparison to the well-established high-resolution pressure reactivity index (PRx).

Methods

Using the Collaborative European NeuroTrauma Effectiveness Research in Traumatic Brain Injury (CENTER-TBI) study dataset, the association of LPRx (correlation between 1-min averages of intracranial pressure and arterial blood pressure over a moving time frame of 20 min) and PRx (correlation between 10-s averages of intracranial pressure and arterial blood pressure over a moving time frame of 5 min) to outcome was assessed and compared using univariate and multivariate regression analysis. “Optimal CPP” values were calculated using a multi-window algorithm that was based on either LPRx or PRx, and their discriminative ability was compared.

Results

LPRx and PRx were both significant predictors of mortality in univariate and multivariate regression analysis, but PRx displayed a higher discriminative ability. Similarly, deviations of actual CPP from “optimal CPP” values calculated from each index were significantly associated with outcome in univariate and multivariate analysis. “Optimal CPP” based on PRx, however, trended towards more precise predictions.

Conclusions

LPRx and its derived “optimal CPP” which are based on low-resolution data were significantly associated with outcome after TBI. However, they did not reach the discriminative ability of the high-resolution PRx and its derived “optimal CPP.” Nevertheless, LPRx might still be an interesting tool to assess cerebrovascular reactivity in centers without high-resolution signal monitoring.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02210221. First submitted July 29, 2014. First posted August 6, 2014.
The importance of discovery science in the development of therapies for the critically ill
Authors:   on behalf of the Translational Biology Group, Juffermans Nicole P. , Radermacher Peter , Laffey John G.
Published: May 2020

Discovery science, a term which encompasses basic, translational, and computational science with the aim to discover new therapies, has advanced critical care. By combining knowledge on inflammatory and genomic pathways with computational methods, discovery science is currently enabling us to optimize clinical trials design by predictive enrichment and to move into the era of personalized medicine for complex syndromes such as sepsis and ARDS. Whereas computational methods are gaining in interest, efforts to invest in basic and translational science in critical care are declining. As basic and translational science is essential to advance our understanding of the pathophysiology of organ failure, this loss of interest may result in failure to discover new therapies for the critically ill. A renewed emphasis on basic and translational science is essential to find solutions for fundamental questions that remain in critical care. This requires a strategy to prioritize basic and translational science as an essential component within the critical care research “toolkit.” Key aspects of this strategy include an increased focus on basic science in critical care medical curricula as well as in critical care platforms such as conferences and medical journals. Training of critical care clinician scientists in basic and translational research will require new organizational models within the academic institutions, as well as the development of new funding opportunities for early career critical care clinician scientists.
Dynamic investigation of Georges phenomenon related to three-phase wound-rotor induction motor
Authors: Abdel-Wahab R. R. , Abdo T. M. , Hanafy H. H.
Published: May 2020

The aim of this paper is to analyze the performance of a three-phase wound-rotor induction motor (WRIM) under rotor windings asymmetry. The dynamic performance of the WRIM under healthy and rotor windings asymmetry with one-open-phase fault conditions is analyzed using a dynamic model in the ABC frame. Under opening one phase of the rotor windings, the WRIM suffers from operation at a speed near to the half of its synchronous speed, which is known as the Georges phenomenon. The behavior of the WRIM is simulated and investigated experimentally under faulty conditions for four different possible connections of rotor windings. The stator and rotor currents are analyzed using fast Fourier transformation technique to identify the fault signatures. The results prove that under opening one phase of the rotor windings the WRIM suffers from pulsating electromagnetic torque, high oscillatory stator currents and high unbalanced rotor currents. Also the results prove that the performance of the motor under rotor windings asymmetry conditions and the occurrence of Georges phenomenon depend on the type of connection of the rotor windings and fault location. Therefore, the authors suggest a special delta connection for the rotor winding to reduce the effects of this phenomenon. The simulation and experimental results show good agreement and prove the validity of the suggested delta connection.
In silico studies of some 2-anilinopyrimidine derivatives as anti-triple-negative breast cancer agents
Authors: Abdulrahman Hadiza Lawal , Uzairu Adamu , Uba Sani
Published: May 2020

Background

Breast cancer is a major form of health problem on the globe and the second cause of death related to cancer amidst women. A prediction of about 1 to 1.3 million cases on cancer of the breast are detected yearly globally. Triple-negative type of breast cancers (TNBCs) are described by the lack of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), estrogen receptor (ER), and progesterone receptor (PR). TNBCs metastasize to the central nervous system and lungs regularly. Such metastatic actions reduce the life expectancy of patients with TNBC than patients with non-TNBC due to non-enhanced inhibitor compounds. The purpose of this research was to explore the anti-proliferative activities of 2-anilinopyrimidine derivatives against triple-negative cancer cell line MDA-MB-468 via in silico studies like QSAR and molecular docking studies to further design and develop new anti-breast cancer drug with high potency and low toxicity.

Results

The quantitative structure–activity relationship QSAR model predicts the bioactivities of the compounds, and molecular docking studies comprehend the interaction between the derivatives (ligand) and thyroid hormone (TRβ1) (receptor). Model 4 was chosen as the best model from the statistical assessment;R2= 0.8760,R2adj= 0.8451,Q2= 0.6141, andR2predof 0.5390. From the external validation of the QSAR model, the coefficient of the mean effect on the model parameters indicates that decreasing (VR1_Dzv and MOMI-R) and increasing (SpMin1_Bh and C3SP3) would increase the anti-proliferative activities (pIC50) of the compounds. The molecular docking studies revealed that ligands 15 and 18 had the highest docking scores of − 7.3 and − 7.4 kcal/mol with thyroid hormone receptor (TRβ1). The ligands had docking scores better than the standard anti-breast cancer drug gefitinib (− 5.3 kcal/mol).

Conclusions

The results indicate that model 4 can be used in developing new 2-anilinopyrimidine derivatives, with better anti-breast cancer prediction activity and performance. It was proved that some series of 2-anilinopyrimidine derivative compounds bind tightly to the receptor, stabilizing the receptor (TRβ1) which is evident from the receptor–ligand interactions, and these compounds would serve as the most promising inhibitors against TRβ1. This shows a breakthrough for pharmaceutical researchers in designing and developing new anti-triple-negative breast cancer drugs.
Fear of Negative Evaluation and Student Anxiety in Community College Active-Learning Science Courses
Authors: Downing Virginia R. , Cooper Katelyn M. , Cala Jacqueline M. , Gin Logan E. , Brownell Sara E.
Published: May 2020

Twenty-nine students enrolled in community colleges were interviewed to probe factors that affect their anxiety in active-learning science courses. Student anxiety decreased when students perceived that active learning enhanced their learning, and fear of negative evaluation was the primary construct underlying student anxiety in active learning.
CATS II Long-term Anthropometric and Metabolic Effects of Maternal Sub-optimal Thyroid Function in Offspring and Mothers
Authors: Muller Ilaria , Taylor Peter N , Daniel Rhian M , Hales Charlotte , Scholz Anna , Candler Toby , Pettit Rebecca J , Evans William D , Shillabeer Dionne , Draman Mohd S , Dayan Colin M , Tang Hiu K C , Okosieme Onyebuchi , Gregory John W , Lazarus John H , Rees D Aled , Ludgate Marian E
Published: May 2020

Context and Objectives

The Controlled Antenatal Thyroid Screening Study I (CATS-I) was a randomized controlled trial investigating the effects of levothyroxine therapy for suboptimal gestational thyroid function (SGTF), comparing outcomes in children of treated (SGTF-T) with untreated (SGTF-U) women during pregnancy. This follow-up study, CATS-II, reports the long-term effects on anthropometric, bone, and cardiometabolic outcomes in mothers and offspring and includes a group with normal gestational thyroid function (NGTF).

Design & Participants

332 mothers (197 NGTF, 56 SGTF-U, 79 SGTF-T) aged 41.2±5.3 years (mean±SD) and 326 paired children assessed 9.3±1.0 years after birth for (i) body mass index (BMI); (ii) lean, fat, and bone mass by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry; (iii) blood pressure, augmentation index, and aortic pulse-wave-velocity; and (iv) thyroid function, lipids, insulin, and adiponectin. The difference between group means was compared using linear regression.

Results

Offspring’s measurements were similar between groups. Although maternal BMI was similar between groups at CATS-I, after 9 years (at CATS-II) SGTF-U mothers showed higher BMI (median [interquartile ratio] 28.3 [24.6-32.6] kg/m2) compared with NGTF (25.8 [22.9-30.0] kg/m2; P = 0.029), driven by fat mass increase. At CATS-II SGTF-U mothers also had higher thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) values (2.45 [1.43-3.50] mU/L) than NGTF (1.54 [1.12-2.07] mU/L; P = 0.015), since 64% had never received levothyroxine. At CATS-II, SGTF-T mothers had BMI (25.8 [23.1-29.8] kg/m2, P = 0.672) and TSH (1.68 [0.89-2.96] mU/L; P = 0.474) values similar to NGTF mothers.

Conclusions

Levothyroxine supplementation of women with SGTF did not affect long-term offspring anthropometric, bone, and cardiometabolic measurements. However, absence of treatment was associated with sustained long-term increase in BMI and fat mass in women with SGTF.
Thyroglobulin Changes are Highly Dependent on TSH in Low-risk DTC Patients not Treated with Radioiodine
Authors: Matrone Antonio , Faranda Alessio , Latrofa Francesco , Gambale Carla , Stefani Donati Delio , Molinaro Eleonora , Agate Laura , Viola David , Piaggi Paolo , Torregrossa Liborio , Basolo Fulvio , Elisei Rossella
Published: May 2020

Introduction

Low-risk differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) is currently rarely treated with radioiodine (131I) to ablate the postoperative remnant. Therefore, the interpretation of the serum thyroglobulin (Tg) values should be reconsidered. The aim of our study was to evaluate the changes in Tg values during follow-up with regard to the changing values in thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH).

Materials and Methods

We evaluated 271 low-risk DTC patients, treated with total thyroidectomy but not 131I. To be included, patients had to be negative for Tg antibodies and have at least 3 evaluations in our department. All patients were on levothyroxine (L-T4) therapy.

Results

After a median follow-up of 73 months, the overall Tg values were stable, while TSH values slightly increased. Therefore, we pooled data of Tg and TSH from all evaluations and a significant positive correlation was demonstrated (R = 0.2; P < 0.01), and was also demonstrated when we performed the analysis using time-weighted values (R = 0.14; P = 0.02). Moreover, when dividing patients into 3 groups according to first postoperative Tg (Group A [Tg < 0.2 ng/ml], Group B [Tg 0.2–1 ng/ml], and Group C [Tg > 1 ng/ml]) most patients showed stable values of Tg at the end of follow-up but TSH variations had a clear impact on the changes in Tg among the groups.

Conclusion

We demonstrated that in low-risk DTC not treated with 131I, serum Tg remains substantially stable over time, and the variations observed were correlated with the concomitant variations of TSH levels, mainly due to the modification of LT-4 therapy performed according to the ongoing risk stratification.
Proinflammatory Cytokine Interleukin 1β Disrupts β-cell Circadian Clock Function and Regulation of Insulin Secretion
Authors: Javeed Naureen , Brown Matthew R , Rakshit Kuntol , Her Tracy , Sen Satish K , Matveyenko Aleksey V
Published: May 2020

Intrinsic β-cell circadian clocks are important regulators of insulin secretion and overall glucose homeostasis. Whether the circadian clock in β-cells is perturbed following exposure to prodiabetogenic stressors such as proinflammatory cytokines, and whether these perturbations are featured during the development of diabetes, remains unknown. To address this, we examined the effects of cytokine-mediated inflammation common to the pathophysiology of diabetes, on the physiological and molecular regulation of the β-cell circadian clock. Specifically, we provide evidence that the key diabetogenic cytokine IL-1β disrupts functionality of the β-cell circadian clock and impairs circadian regulation of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion. The deleterious effects of IL-1β on the circadian clock were attributed to impaired expression of key circadian transcription factor Bmal1, and its regulator, the NAD-dependent deacetylase, Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1). Moreover, we also identified that Type 2 diabetes in humans is associated with reduced immunoreactivity of β-cell BMAL1 and SIRT1, suggestive of a potential causative link between islet inflammation, circadian clock disruption, and β-cell failure. These data suggest that the circadian clock in β-cells is perturbed following exposure to proinflammatory stressors and highlights the potential for therapeutic targeting of the circadian system for treatment for β-cell failure in diabetes.
DEVELOPMENT OF AN OPTIMIZATION ANTI-CRISIS MANAGEMENT MODEL IN INDUSTRIAL POULTRY USING MARKETING TECHNOLOGIES
Authors: Shagieva Al'bina , Vagazova Gul'naz , Pavlova Aleksandra
Published: May 2020

The studies were carried out with the aim of developing a model for optimizing anti-crisis management of business entities in the poultry industry using marketing technologies. The article discusses current issues related to the development of a model for optimizing crisis management in the poultry industry using marketing technologies. The key problems requiring improvement of anti-crisis management of enterprises in the poultry industry are recognition of pre-crisis situations, ensuring the company’s activity in a crisis, motivating the workforce and stimulating the poultry products market, highlighting the constituent elements of the marketing model. From an organizational point of view, the components of the model for optimizing the crisis management of poultry enterprises in a crisis using marketing technologies were clarified, including: developing a plan to minimize enterprise costs, forming an anti-crisis team, ensuring the effective functioning of the strategic planning system, establishing cooperation with a consulting company, which will take over the functions of the crisis center. Using the formalized algorithm for compiling an anti-crisis marketing strategy for poultry enterprises developed in the course of research in practice will allow us to measure and improve the results of Internet marketing campaigns; personalize them to optimize crisis management; develop communication in social networks; develop marketing messages whose content is relevant to users; improve customer service; increase customer satisfaction and loyalty; provide for certain events (intellectual analytics) that will help to make more accurate and timely decisions. It is advisable to build crisis management at poultry enterprises using the innovative data marketing concept
EFFICIENCY OF APPLICATION OF MICROFERTILIZERS WITH ELEMENTS OF GROWTH REGULATORS ON SOYA
Authors: Lozhkin Aleksandr , Nesterova Ol'ga , Prokop'eva Mariya Vasil'evna Mariya , Sereda Nadezhda
Published: May 2020

The work was performed in 2018–2019 in the Chuvash Republic on light gray forest soils. Studies were conducted to determine the impact of various sowing methods and microfertilizers Bloom & Grow and Immune System on the formation of productivity of soybean varieties USKhI-6. The scheme of the 2-factor experiment included the following options: microfertilizers (factor A) - without fertilizers (control) and using microfertilizers; seeding methods (factor B) - ordinary with a row-spacing of 15 cm and wide-row (30 cm). The highest plants were formed with a wide-row method of sowing - 6.7 ... 11.8 cm higher than in the version with the ordinary method of sowing. The introduction of micronutrients also significantly increased the value of this indicator by 2.3 ... 7.4 cm. The highest attachment of the lower beans was noted in the variants using micronutrients (10.3 ... 10.7 cm). The method of sowing did not have a significant effect on this trait. A wide-row method of sowing contributed to an increase in branching and the number of internodes on the main stem, compared with the ordinary. The maximum in the experiment the number of beans (38.2 pcs.) and seeds (58.2 pcs.) from one plant, as well as the weight of 1000 seeds (145.1 g) were noted during wide-row sowing using micronutrient fertilizers. In the same embodiment, the plant safety was 87%, and the yield was the highest in the experiment - 2.04 t/ha. The calculation of economic efficiency was carried out on the basis of technological maps at current regulatory rates. Soybean cultivation was economically viable; profitability for all options was 83.3 ... 106%. The largest (106%) it was with a wide-row method of sowing with the introduction of fertilizers.
SIMULATION OF DEFECTS IN ULTRASONIC TESTING OF WELDED JOINTS
Authors: Andreev Evgeniy , Nikolenko S. , Sazonova Svetlana
Published: May 2020

The paper analyzes and develops proposals for optimizing the quality control of welded joints of technological pipelines using mechanized ultrasonic testing using the phased array method. The main advantage of the proposed method, in addition to identifying all existing defects, is the storage of information about scanning for a considerable time on electronic media, which makes it possible to use it in cases where a controversial situation arises, when an incident occurs, or if an accident occurs.
MODELING OF TEMPERATURE STRESSES IN THE FOUNDATION SLABS OF A BUILDING
Authors: Korablin Sergey , Nikolenko S. , Sazonova Svetlana
Published: May 2020

Computer modeling of the thermal stress state of a concrete foundation slab of an educational institution building is considered. To simulate the thermal stress state, the specialized Midas Fea software package is used. The actual tensile stresses in concrete are compared with the maximum allowable values taking into account the equivalent age. It was established that the likelihood of cracking due to sudden changes in temperature is high, which entails the likelihood of destructive processes in concrete. Based on the calculations and modeling of temperature processes in concrete, it is proposed to use surface thermal insulation or to reduce the initial temperature of the concrete mixture in order to reduce the heat transfer rate of the concrete surface.
Metabolic predictors of individual immune responses to adaptogenic balneotherapy
Authors: Struk Zoryana , Mel’nyk Oksana , Zukow Walery , Popovych Igor
Published: May 2020

Background. Earlier four variants of the immune responses to adaptogenic balneotherapy have been identified. All four variants of immune responses are virtually unmistakably (with an accuracy of 97,7%) predicted by a set of 20 predictors including 12 immune blood parameters and one saliva parameter, 4 information parameters, 2 fecal microbiota parameters as well as erythrocyturia. In the next study discriminant analysis revealed that constellation 8 HRV and 5 Endocrine parameters as well as Gender of the patient predicts the nature of the immune response with an accuracy of 90,9%. The purpose of this study is to search for predictors of immune responses among the registered Metabolic parameters. Material and methods. Theobjectofobservationwere 34menand 10 womenaged24-70yearsold,whocametotheTruskavets’ spa for the treatment of chronic pyelonephritis combined withcholecystitis inremission. We determined them theElectrokinetic index, Lipoproteines spectrum, plasma and daily urine levels of Electrolytes and Nitrous metabolites as well as basal and postprandial volume of gall-bladder. Results. Discriminant analysisrevealed 16 parameters as the predictors. Of these, 3 reflect the level of Plasma Electrolytes, 5 - the Urine Electrolytes, another 2 - the levels of plasma and urine Urea. Other predictors were: Very Low Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol plasma level, Body Mass index, fasting gallbladder volume and 30 minutes after cholekinetics, Electrokinetic index, and patient Age. These predictors, taken together, determine the nature of the immune response with an accuracy of 95,5%. Conclusion. The variety of immune responses to adaptogenic balneotherapy is quite strictly conditioned by the initial state of the neuroendocrine-immune complex, microbiota, cholekinetics and metabolism, as well as the age and sex of patients.
Differentiation of metastatic lesions to the bones and multiple myeloma – a case study
Authors: Pachciński Olaf , Przywara Paulina , Raabe Adam , Zaremba Bartłomiej , Szudy-Szczyrek Aneta , Hus Marek
Published: May 2020

Bones are one of the most common locations for cancer metastasis. Foci, which are in the most cases osteolytic, are located in the spine, ribs, pelvis, long bones. The etiology of changes varies widely as they can be observed in the course of breast, prostate or lung cancer and multiple myeloma. The aim of the study is to present the case of a 72-year-old female patient after right nephrectomy due to clear cell carcinoma with the presence of disseminated osteolytic foci in the bones located in the ribs, sternum and femur and the existance of calcified  pulmonary nodules on diagnostic computed tomography (CT). Basing on the clinical data and imaging results, metastatic bone disease of kidney carcinoma was diagnosed. Despite the treatment, no clinical improvement was observed. In addition, general symptoms such as weakness, weight loss, bone pain appeared. Osteolysis and diffuse osteopenia with hypercalcaemia increased. Further diagnostics – a histopathological examination of the bone marrow combined with laboratory results allowed to make the correct diagnosis - multiple myeloma in stage III in Durie and Salmon classification, in stage 3 according ISS scale. The appropriate treatment was introduced. Patient received bortezomib-thalidomide-dexamethasone chemotherapy regimen and achieved very good partial response (VGPR).On the grounds of the case given, the key to successful treatment is to carry out detailed differentiation and to make an accurate diagnosis. Coexistence of another cancer should be always considered. A biopsy of pathological lesions is often the only way to diagnose disease.
Functional assessment of people practicing Brazilian martial art – Capoeira
Authors: Dymel Piotr , Szylińska Aleksandra
Published: May 2020

Introduction: Due to the growing interest in the subject of health and fitness in the general public, people began to reach for various forms of self-improvement. One of these methods is Capoeira, which is becoming increasingly popular among all age groups and genders. It combines elements of both a fight and a dance. It’s mainly based on kicks, dodges and acrobatics.Aim: The main goal of the study was to conduct a functional assessment of people practicing the Brazilian martial art – Capoeira, and an assessment of the risk of injury.Materials and methods: A total of 25 people were tested in two groups of 13 and 12 people each. The first group consisted of people between the ages of 19 and 43 (mean age 30.92±7.99) who have trained Capoeira for at least one year. The second group was a control group and consisted of people from 21 to 49 years of age (mean age 36.08±10.09) exercising regularly.Results: In the Capoeira group consisting of 13 people, the average final score of the FMS test was 16 points out of 21 achievable. The average score of a control group is 14.5 points. According to the FMS test, 41.67% of people in the non-Capoeira group are at increased risk of injury in sports, while in the Capoeira group of people there is no increased risk of injury (p=0,035).Conclusions: Capoeira group achieved significantly higher results in FMS. According to FMS, Control group showed an increased risk of injury. In the group of active people who did not train martial arts, almost half were characterized by an increased risk of injury.
Bioelectrical impedance in the assessment of nutritional status
Authors: Ręba Patrycja
Published: May 2020

IntroductionBioelectrical impedance analysis is based on the difference in electric conduction in the water and fat environment. Adipose tissue and extracellular water are devoid of capacitive resistance (reactance), whereas they show passive electrical resistance (resistance). The current frequencies used in the bioelectrical impedance test do not affect nerve or heart muscle irritation. The current is completely safe and practically imperceptible to the patient. Aim The purpose of the work is to analyze bioelectrical impedance in assessing nutritional status.Material and method Review of available literature on the subject.ResultsImpedance is a category of electrical resistance consisting of two elements: resistance (passive electrical resistance) and reactance (capacitive, active electrical resistance). Resistance refers to the specific resistance of individual tissues. It is proportional to the voltage and inversely proportional to the total water content in the body. Reactance is associated with the electrical capacity of cell membranes that act as capacitors.The phase angle is a parameter that illustrates the circulation of water between the intracellular and extracellular space. Provides information on cell membrane integrity, cell health and total body mobility. BCM changes are typical for some chronic diseases, such as AIDS or cancer. Subjective global nutrition assessment (SGA) is the gold standard for determining nutritional status.ConclusionsThe phase angle value allows you to track the nutrition of the body as well as monitor recovery and physical fitness. Keeping BCM at the right level has a positive effect on your health. Maintaining BCM is a major goal in all types of nutrition therapies. FFMI allows observation of the effects of treatment, disease or aging patients.
The Method of Medical-Ecological Monitoring of Public Health and Environmentally Hazardous Areas
Authors: Yermishev Oleh
Published: May 2020

The main subject of the study of the ecological and medical zoning method is the complex state of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) of the child's organism and the analysis of the processes affecting it. The ANS performs adaptational trophic function - the regulation of the metabolism regarding the conditions of the environment. The analysis of possible ecological problems of the territory and its degree of ecological disturbance can be made due to the received data set on the state of functional health of the children's population of a certain territory and the averaged information on the deviation of the autonomic nervous system. In order to assess the disturbance of the territory, the relative value of the breach of vegetative homeostasis, which is defined as a percentage, is of particular importance. Various organs and systems of the body are known to be associated with certain areas of the skin called acupuncture points. With the appearance of the smallest deviations in the systems of the body and organs, they react at the stage of functional disorders long before the occurrence of organic changes at the expense of meridional bonds. Measuring the electrosurgical resistance in certain acupuncture points you can detect changes in the body still at the stage of functional disorders. For researches, the method of “biogalvanization” of 24 symmetrical representative active functional zones (12 on the arms and 12 on the legs), which reflect the functional activity of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system has been used. This allows to record changes in the activity of sites of the ANS and to obtain systematic data that are subject to further complex analysis. The given method is unique and allows to conduct ecological analysis of the territory with the help of the target group of organisms - a person; method is non-invasive and low-cost, which allows conducting surveys of different age and sex groups and obtaining data with a minimum statistical error.
The importance of vitamin D3 supplementation in orthopedics - literature review
Authors: Machaj Dominik , Cyboran Katarzyna , Płaczek Alicja , Baran Marlena , Wojnowski Michał
Published: May 2020

Falls have been recognized by the WHO as one of the most significant problems in aging societies. In the elderly after 65 years of age, they cause 90% of the fractures of the proximal femoral bone (bkk) and 100% of the forearm fractures [5].They usually occur when walking (most often), getting up and sitting down. The consequences of falls, as well as themselves, can be prevented by supplementing vitamin D3 [6] [8] regulating the body's calcium-phosphate homeostasis. It improves neuromuscular function, including the mechanism reduces the frequency of falls. It also affects response time and balance. The concentration of vitamin D3 in the body is variable. Depends on endogenous biosynthesis and food supply. It also shows seasonal fluctuations. Its deficiencies lead to not only orthopedic and dental complications. It has been proven that there is a decreased level of 25 (OH) D3 in serum and such diseases as diabetes, hypertension, depression,neuro-degenerative diseases including Alzheimer's disease and increased likelihood of cancer, especially breast, prostate, and colon cancers [15].
Index Fund Entry and Financial Product Market Competition
Authors: Sun Yang
Published: May 2020

The active money management industry is characterized by both strong competitive pressure from passive investment vehicles and high fees. This paper investigates how the introduction of low-cost index funds affects fund company strategies. The retail mutual fund market is segmented, where unsophisticated investors rely on financial advisers and sophisticated ones invest directly. Exploiting the staggered entry of low-cost Vanguard index funds as competitive shocks, I show that, in response to competition, incumbents sold to self-directed investors reduce their fees by 5% of the mean; however, funds sold with broker recommendations increase their fees by 6% of the mean. Index fund entry also slows the growth of actively managed funds. The responsiveness of broker-sold fund flows to distribution fees increases, suggesting a shift in composition toward less elastic consumers. Further, incumbents increase the degree of active management. The results illustrate why mutual fund fees slowly decline in the aggregate despite competition from lower-cost alternatives.

This paper was accepted by Gustavo Manso, finance.
Comment on ‘The European Union building from Public Choice to Ordo, Röpke’s and Einaudi’s ideas of Europe’ by Francesco Forte
Authors: D’Amico Domenico , Scaglioni Carla
Published: May 2020

In his very elaborate analysis, Forte takes on several issues regarding the European integration process, offering an original insight into the foundations of European economic governance. In particular, the author looks to expand current results in the relevant literature in several
directions. On the theoretical front, Forte departs from James Buchanan’s economic theory of clubs to provide a club-theoretic template to both the European Union and European Monetary Union. He arrives at the belief of ‘the incompleteness of the European institutional construct
and the misunderstandings about its basic principles’. His argument relies on the similarities that he recognises between Buchanan’s view of European federalism and the German ordoliberalism roots of the European integration process, which can be traced from the founding of the
European Community onward. On the empirical front, Forte identifies a potential polarisation among countries within the euro area during the crisis that occurred over the last ten years. According to him, this dualism within the euro club is due to a ‘violation’ of the ideals and
the operational suggestions proposed by Buchanan, Ordo, Röpke and Einaudi. In this comment, we briefly describe what became for most member states of the European Union the worst economic and social crisis since the Second World War that led to a new architecture of European economic
governance. Subsequently, we highlight significant results presented by Forte and elaborate how these results fit into the existing literature.