bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PELATIHAN EMOTION COACHING UNTUK MENINGKATKAN KETRAMPILAN GURU MERESPON EMOSI ANAK USIA DINI
Authors: Astinah Astinah , Wahyuningsih Hepi , Syifa'a Rachmahana Ratna
Published: December 2019

This research aims to observe how the emotion coaching training improve the skill of teachers on Education for Early-Age Children (known as PAUD). It uses the design of nonrandomized pretest-posttest control group design. Twelve teachers of PAUD were involved as the participants in this research and they were divided into two groups: 6 of those 12 teachers included in experimental and control group. The measurement tools used in this research were the scale of the skill of teacher response and observation on checklist behavior made by the researcher based upon the theory of Swartz and Mcelwain (2012).. The test of hypothesis used the Friedman analysis. The results of the research showed that the training of emotion coaching can improve the skill of teachers in responding the emotion of early age children before and after giving the training to the experiment group at (p = 0.002 where p< 0.05).
Ketahanan Tujuh Varietas Tomat terhadap Nematoda Puru Akar (Meloidogyne spp.)
Authors: Irmawatie Lilis , Robana Raden Rubi , Nuraidah Nuraidah
Published: December 2019

Tomato is an annual plant that has high vitamin content and it was widely used by the general people and industry. At present the productivity is still low. One of the causes is the attack of Meloidogyne. The objective of this research was to test resistance of several tomatoe varieties to root knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.). Seven tomato varieties had been tested for resistance to Meloidogyne. Plants that were 45 days after planting in a polybag containing 5 kg of soil were infested with second stage larvae (L2). The parameters observed were plant height, number of knots, final population, fruit weight and canopy wet weight and root wet weight. The results showed that none of the tomatoe varieties tested were resistant to Meloidogyne. But there were differences in responses to the Meloidogyne attack including the Ratna variety and Diamond variety showing the lower number of knot and the final population Meloidogyne.
Selection and Formulation of Endophytic Bacteria as Plant Resistance Elicitor against Wilt Disease of Tomato
Authors: Purnawati Arika , Harjani Wiwik , Nirwanto Herry
Published: December 2019

Wilt disease of Solanaceae caused by Ralstonia solanacearum reduce the crop quality and negatively affect the crop product. The objective of this research was to discover of endophytic bacteria formulation that effectively decreases bacterial which cause wilt disease on Solanaceae. The research consisted of purification of Ralstonia solanacearum, endophytic bacteria were obtained from the sample and the screening of endophytic bacteria using this following assay: antagonist assay, seedling assay and in planta assay. The results showed that in antagonist assay, the bacterial isolate code PS1, PS2, and PS8 could inhibit growth of R. solanacearum. From the seedling assay, it obtained that all of the isolates increased of percentage of germination, seed coating and powder formulation can decrease disease incidence of bacterial wilt disease.
Kualitas Kimia Serat beberapa Klon Rami Asal Sumatera Barat
Authors: Yulfa Denny , Mayerni Reni , Yusniwati Yusniwati
Published: December 2019

Flax/jute is natural fiber plants that that produce fiber from the bark. Ramie fiber has a better quality than the others natural fiber, so it can meet fiber the increase needs cultivar with the best chemical composition of fiber. The aim of this study was to detect the chemical composition of fiber in several clones of ramie from West Sumatera. The study was conducted on December 2018 at the Laboratory of Technology Agriculture Product Andalas University for analyzed the content of chemical composition (water, ash, holocellulose, cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin). The result of this study showed that the highest level of water content, ash, hemicellulose, and lignin were found in Situjuah clones those are 40.43, 6.74, 14.39, and 9.98% respectively. Whereas for the highest level of holocellulose and cellulose contents were in Ramindo 1 clone those were 70.23 and 58.46% respectively.
LABORATORY WORK ON TOTAL SUCTION CALIBRATION CURVE FOR WHATMAN #42 FILTER PAPER
Authors: Purwana Yusep Muslih
Published: December 2019

Soil suction is one of main parameter in unsaturated soil mechanics as its measurement is as very important as pore water pressure measurement for effective stress concept in saturated soil mechanics.Basically, the measurement of soil suction can be classified into 2 categories; direct and indirect method. In the first method, negative pore water pressure is measured directly to obtain matric suction, whereas in indirect method, suction is obtained indirectly by using salt solution and censor.  Calibration is then required to establish the relationship between concentration of salt solution and censor. Filter paper method is considered as the simplest method and relatively low cost compare to other method. The studies conducted by many investigators indicate that calibration curve from one type to another type of filter paper is quite different. This paper presents the basic concepts of laboratory work on establishing total suction calibration curve for Wahtmann #42 filter paper. The work has been conducted using NaCl and KCl solutions with different molality to generate different suction. The result indicates that the higher molality of solution, the higher suction is generated. The calibration curve from KCl exhibits a bit higher compare to the one from NaCl. The difference of both curves most probably is due to the difference of equilibration period and suction source.

Keywords: Calibration curve, filter paper, suction, unsaturated soil
Discovery Learning based on Natural Phenomena to Improve Students' Science Process Skills
Authors: Haryadi Rudi , Pujiastuti Heni
Published: December 2019

The purpose of this research is to find out the science process skills of students through Discovery learning. The process of science is essential for students to have because it is the process of forming science. Science process skills can accustom students to learning through scientific work processes and systematic work. The research method uses a quasi-experiment with one group pretest-posttest design. This study does not use a comparison class, because it already uses a preliminary test so that the magnitude of the effect or effect of using discovery learning can be known with certainty. In this study, research subjects were first given a pre-test (pretest) to find out the extent of the students' initial abilities before being given physics learning by using discovery learning. After the initial test is given, then the student is given treatment, namely learning physics by using discovery learning. After completing physics learning with discovery learning, then all students are given a final test (posttest) to determine the extent of the effect of physics learning by using discovery learning on students' science process skills. The instrument used in this study was a science process skills test on the material elasticity and Hooke law, in the form of 20 multiple-choice tests and tested on 30 students in Prisma City High School. Each question evaluates aspects of conclusions, observations, identification, predictions, and interpretation of data. The results of the analysis show an increase in observational indicators from 39.95 to 66.62, concluding from 53.86 to 69.4, identifying from 36.6 to 73.3, predicting from 39.43 to 68.31 and interpreting from 73, 3 to 98.3. Based on the results of the analysis, the learning of physics-based on natural phenomena through discovery learning models can improve students' science process skills.
BURIED WAVEGUIDE POLYMETHYLMETHACRYLATE MODELING FOR REFRACTIVE INDEX SENSOR APPLICATION USING FINITE ELEMENT METHOD
Authors: Yulianti Ian , Azka Jauhar , Darma Putra Ngurah Made , Astuti Budi
Published: December 2019

The purpose of this study is to obtain the optimum buried waveguide structure through modeling for refractive index sensor applications. The waveguide cladding material used as Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA). The core cross-section size was 1 × 1 mm2. The simulation was carried out at a wavelength of 650 nm using the Finite Element Method (FEM). The parameter of the buried waveguide optimized in this model was the core refractive index and the thickness of the upper cladding to obtain a high propagation constant and good sensitivity to refractive index. Modeling was done for various core refractive index values ​​varied in the range of 1.52 to 1.59, which are the refractive index of various types of polymers. To optimize the sensitivity, the thickness of the upper cladding was varied between 0.125mm to 0.5mm. Besides, a simulation was also carried out for a waveguide without an upper cladding. The results show that the optimum waveguide is a waveguide without upper cladding using polyester as core material with a refractive index value of 1.57 and a sensitivity of 4.9 × 10-10rad /m. RIU.
Tuning Ionic Liquids for Simultaneous Dilution and Demulsification of Water-In-Bitumen Emulsions at Ambient Temperature
Authors: Abdelfatah Elsayed , Chen Yining , Berton Paula , Rogers Robin D. , Bryant Steven L.
Published: December 2019

Thermal and flotation processes are widely used to produce bitumen from oil sand in Alberta. However, bitumen contains many surface-active components that tend to form water-in-oil (w/o) emulsion stabilized by fines and/or asphaltenes. Although several demulsifiers have been proposed in the literature to treat such emulsions, these chemicals are sometimes not effective. We propose ionic liquids (ILs) whose composition has been designed to enable effective treatment of these emulsions.

Different ILs were synthesized and tested for their efficiency in treating bitumen emulsion obtained from a field in Alberta. ILs tested are mixtures of organic bases (primary and tertiary amines) with oleic acid. Mixtures of ILs and bitumen emulsion were prepared at several mass ratios. The two components were mixed under ambient conditions. After mixing, segregation of different components in the mixture was accelerated by centrifugation for rapid assessment of the degree of emulsion breaking. Optical microscopy, rheology, thermal gravimetric analysis, and viscosity measurements were used to assess the effect of ILs on bitumen emulsions.

The first set of ILs with primary amine cations of different alkyl chain lengths (N-butylammonium oleate, N-octylammonium oleate) were able to separate the water from the emulsion. However, these ILs tended to form gels when mixed with water. The IL prepared from a tertiary amine with short alkyl chain length, triethylammonium oleate, also formed a gel with water. The number and length of alkyl chains proved critical for avoiding gel formation. ILs with tertiary amine cations of longer alkyl chain lengths (tri-N-butylammonium oleate and tri-N-octylammonium oleate) were immiscible with the separated water and did not gel. These ILs were very efficient in diluting and demulsifying bitumen emulsion. The emulsion droplet sizes increased upon addition of the IL. The IL mixes into the bitumen phase released from the emulsion, yielding a viscosity at an ambient temperature close to the pipeline specifications.

This work demonstrates that ILs can be tailored to break bitumen emulsions effectively without heat input. The process developed in this paper can replace current practice for the demulsification and dilution of bitumen emulsions, which requires the emulsion to be heated significantly. Hence the IL process reduces the heat requirements and hence greenhouse gas emissions.
Flow-Path Tracking Strategy in a Data-Driven Interwell Numerical Simulation Model for Waterflooding History Matching and Performance Prediction with Infill Wells
Authors: Zhao Hui , Xu Lingfei , Guo Zhenyu , Zhang Qi , Liu Wei , Kang Xiaodong
Published: December 2019

Recently, we have developed two computationally efficient data-driven models—interwell numerical simulation model (INSIM) and INSIM with front tracking (INSIM-FT)—for history matching, prediction, characterization, and optimization of waterflooding reservoirs. Then, stemming from the INSIM family, we derived a new data-driven model referred to as INSIM with flow-path tracking (FPT), for more-accurate interwell connectivity calculations, dynamic flow-path tracking, and waterflooding predictions. The model is a connection-based simulation model that is developed on the basis of a two-phase-flow material-balance equation. With the new model, we can characterize a reservoir by history matching the historical well flow-rate data without the detailed petrophysical properties of the reservoir. In INSIM-FPT, we provide an automatic and systematic workflow that incorporates Delaunay triangulation and imaginary wells to construct the model connection map. We apply a modified depth-first searching method to track all influential flow paths between an injector/producer pair for more-accurate calculations of dynamic allocation factors and control pore volumes (PVs). In addition, we provide a method to visualize a saturation field for a history-matched INSIM-FPT model. On the basis of the saturation map, we design a workflow to evaluate possible drilling locations and future performance of infill wells.

For application, we create a synthetic reservoir with two different scenarios to demonstrate the reliability of INSIM-FPT. The results show that the dynamic allocation factors and control PVs between injector/producer pairs in the history-matched INSIM-FPT models are consistent with those obtained from the true streamline simulation model. Furthermore, the oil-saturation field generated with INSIM-FPT reasonably matches that obtained with the true model. It shows that the future predictions of infill wells on the basis of history-matched INSIM-FPT models are reasonably accurate but can be improved if more observed data are collected from near the planned infill wells. We also test a large-scale field problem with 65 wells, which shows INSIM-FPT can reasonably match and predict the field data.
Identification of QTL TGW12 responsible for grain weight in rice based on recombinant inbred line population crossed by wild rice (Oryza minuta) introgression line K1561 and indica rice G1025
Authors: Li Xiaoqiong , Wei Yu , Li Jun , Yang Fangwen , Chen Ying , Chen Yinghua , Guo Sibin , Sha Aihua
Published: December 2019

Background: Limited genetic resource in the cultivated rice may hinder further yield improvement. Some valuable genes that contribute to rice yield may be lost or lacked in the cultivated rice. Identification of the quantitative trait locus (QTL) for yield-related traits such as thousand-grain weight (TGW) from wild rice speices is desired for rice yield improvement. Results: In this study, sixteen TGW QTL were identified from a recombinant inbred line (RIL) population derived from the cross between the introgression line K1561 of Oryza minuta and the rice cultivar G1025. TGW12 , One of most effective QTL was mapped to the region of 241.47 kb between the marker 2768345 and marker 2853491 of the specific locus amplified fragment (SLAF). The origin of TGW12 was tested using three markers nearby or within the TGW12 region, but not clarified yet. Our data indicated thirty-two open reading fragments (ORFs) were present in the region. RT-PCR analysis and sequence alignment showed that the coding domain sequences of ORF12 , one MADS-box gene, in G1025 and K1561 were different due to alternative slicing, which caused premature transcription termination. The MADS-box gene was considered as a candidate of TGW12 . Conclusion: The effective QTL, TGW12 , was mapped to a segment of 241.47 kb using RILs population and a MADS-box gene was identified among several candidate genes in the segment. The region of TGW12 should be further narrowed and creation of transgenic lines will reveal the gene function. TGW12 could be applied for improvement of TGW in breeding program.
Interaction of camel Lactoferrin derived peptides with DNA: a molecular dynamics study
Authors: Pirkhezranian Zana , Tahmurespur Mojtaba , Daura Xavier , Monhemi Hassan , Sekhavati Mohammadhadi
Published: December 2019

Background: Lactoferrampin (LFampin), Lactoferricin (LFcin), and LFchimera are three well-known antimicrobial peptides derived from Lactoferrin and proposed as alternatives for antibiotics. Although the intracellular activity of these peptides has been previously demonstrated, their mode of action is not yet fully understood. Here, we performed a molecular dynamics simulation study to understand the molecular interactions between camel Lactoferrin derived peptides, including CLFampin, CLFcin, and CLFchimera, and DNA as an important intracellular target. Results: Our results indicate that all three peptides bind to DNA, albeit with different propensities, with CLFchimera showing the highest binding affinity. The secondary structures of the peptides, modeled on Lactoferrin, did not undergo significant changes during simulation, supporting their functional relevance. Main residues involved in the peptide-DNA interaction were identified based on binding free energy estimates calculated over 200 ns, which, as expected, confirmed strong electrostatic interactions between DNA phosphate groups and positively charged peptide side chains. Interaction between the different concentrations of CLFchimera and DNA revealed that after binding of four copies of CLFchimera to DNA, hydrogen bonds between the two strands of DNA start to break from one of the termini. Conclusions: Importantly, our results revealed that there is no DNA-sequence preference for peptide binding, in line with a broad antimicrobial activity. Moreover, the results showed that the strength of the interaction between DNA and CLFchimera is concentration dependent. The insight provided by these results can be used for the rational redesign of natural antimicrobial peptides targeting the bacterial DNA. Keywords: Keywords: Camel, Antimicrobial peptide, DNA, Lactoferrin, Molecular dynamics simulation
Effect of Dexmedetomidine on Duration of Mechanical Ventilation in Septic Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Author) peifen chen(Former Corresponding , Jiang Jihong , Zhang Yunhe , Li Guobao , Qiu Zhihui , Levy Mitchell M. , Hu Baoji
Published: December 2019

Background: Because of its analgesic and light sedative properties, the highly selective alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist dexmedetomidine (DEX) has been suggested for the treatment of septic patients, but its effect on the duration of mechanical ventilation remains unclear. The present study was conducted to review the extant literature in DEX and determine its influence on ventilation time in adult septic patients.
Methods: Databases of PubMed, Cochrane, and EMBASE were applied till 20th January 2019 without language restriction. The searching strategy as following: sepsis OR septic AND mechanical ventilation AND dexmedetomidine. Two authors screened titles, abstracts, and even articles to meet the including criterion independently. In addition, references of related articles or reviews were also referred. Data was recorded in a table and analyzed using the software of Review Manager 5.0.
Results: Four studies with a total of 349 patients were included. Three trials with 267 patients revealed the effect of DEX on duration of mechanical ventilation, two trials with 264 patients on ventilator-free days and four trials with 334 patients on 28-day mortality. The analyzed results indicated that DEX was not associated with significantly different durations of mechanical ventilation (MD 0.65, 95% CI, -0.13 to 1.42, P = 0.10). However, there were significant differences in ventilator-free days (MD 3.57, 95% CI, 0.26 to 6.89, P = 0.03) and 28-day mortality (RR 0.61, 95% CI, 0.49 to 0.94, P = 0.02) in the septic patients.
Conclusion: Administration of DEX for sedation in septic patients was not associated with the duration of mechanical ventilation, but it increased the ventilator-free days and reduced 28-day mortality.
A Cross-Sectional Study of Job Burnout, Psychological Attachment, and the Career Calling of Chinese Doctors
Authors: Zhang Shu'e , Wang Jinghui , Xie Fengzhe , Yin Dong , Shi Yu , Zhang Min , Yin Hongyan , Li Fujun , Yang Libin , Cao Depin , Sun Tao
Published: December 2019

Background: The main objectives of this study were as follows: (1) evaluate the prevalence of burnout syndrome among doctors, (2) establish associations with demographic factors in China, and (3) examine the mediating role of psychological attachment in the relationship between job burnout and career calling. Methods:This cross-sectional survey was conducted by administering an online questionnaire in May 2016. The survey was performed across Thirty provinces. In total,A total of 3,016 Chinese doctors were selected as participants, of which 2,617 completed valid questionnaires (effective response rate: 86.77%). Results: The overall prevalence of burnout symptoms among Chinese doctors was 85.79%. Little variance was reported for burnout symptoms according to age (Waldc2 = 6.843, P < 0.05, OR <1 ), professional title (Waldc2 = 13.110, P < 0.05, OR > 1), and daily working hours (Waldc 2= 7.226, P < 0.05, OR > 1). However, the burnout of Chinese doctors was found to be associated with psychological attachment (B = -0.6433, P < 0.0001) and career calling (B = 0.3653, P < 0.0001); furthermore, psychological attachment (B = 0.2350, P < 0.001) mediated the relationship between job burnout and career calling. Conclusion: Burnout symptoms among Chinese doctors were prevalent and associated with age, professional title, and long working hours. Chinese doctors aged 20-30 experienced a much higher level of burnout symptoms. The longer hours doctors worked, the more likely they were at risk of burnout symptoms, especially among attending physicians. Doctors who endured high-level burnout tended to exhibit decreasing psychological attachment, which threatened their sense of career calling. Finally, this paper proposed related explanations for the function mechanisms based on both theoretical and practical perspectives.
Moderate and deep sedation for non-invasive paediatric procedures in tertiary maternity and children’s hospitals in China: A questionnaire survey from China
Authors: Li Bo , Zhang Ruidong , Huang Yue , Zhang Kan , Wat Chun Yin , Bai Jie , Zhang Mazhong , Zheng Jijian
Published: December 2019

Background : Moderate and deep sedation are well-established techniques in many developed countries, and several guidelines have been published. However, they have received attention in China only in recent years. The aim of this study is to investigate current paediatric sedation practices in tertiary children’s hospitals and tertiary maternity and children hospitals in China. Methods : All tertiary children’s hospitals and tertiary maternity and children hospitals registered with the National Health Commission of the People’s Republic of China were invited to participate in an electronic survey, which included information on the sedation caseload, facility availability, staff structure, clinical skill requirements for sedation providers, fasting guidelines, patient-monitoring practices, and choice of sedatives. Results : Fifty-eight of the 63 hospitals that completed the survey (92.1%) provided moderate and deep sedation. Dedicated sedation rooms and post-sedation recovery rooms were found in 14 (24.1%) and 19 (32.8%) hospitals, respectively. Sedation for non-invasive procedures was primarily performed by anaesthesiologists (69.0%); however, 75.9% of the sedation providers had not received paediatric basic or advanced life-support training. Children were asked to fast from clear liquids for at least 2 hours in 44.8% of hospitals and up to 6 hours in 5.2% of hospitals; they were asked to fast from solid food/milk for at least 4 hours in 27.6% of hospitals and more than 8 hours in 1.7% of hospitals. The most commonly used sedative in all groups was chloral hydrate. For rescue, propofol was the most widely used sedative, particularly for children older than 4 years. Conclusions : Moderate and deep sedation practices vary widely in tertiary children’s hospitals and tertiary maternity and children hospitals in China. Optimised practices should be established to improve the quality of moderate and deep sedation.
Analyzing preferences for family doctor contract services in rural China: a study using discrete choice experiment
Authors: Fu Peipei , Wang Yi , Liu Shimeng , Li Jiajia , Gao qiufeng , Zhou Chengchao , Meng Qingyue , Sylvia Sean
Published: December 2019

Background: Preliminary evaluations have found that family doctor contract service has significantly controlled medical expenses, better managed chronic diseases, and increased patient satisfaction and service compliance. In 2016, China proposed the establishment of a family doctor system to carry out contract services, but studies have found uptake and utilization of these services to be limited. This study aimed to investigate rural resident preferences for FDCS from the public perspective in China. Methods: A discrete choice experiment (DCE) was performed to elicit respondent preferences towards FDCS among rural residents in China. Attributes and levels were established based on literature review and qualitative methods. Five attributes consisted of cost, medicine availability, reimbursement rate, competence of the family doctor, and attitude of the family doctor were evaluated using mixed logit model. Results: A total number of 609 residents were included in the main DCE analysis. Respondents valued high competence (coefficient 2.44, [SE 0.13]) and good attitude (coefficient 1.42, [SE 0.09]) of the family doctor most. Cost was negatively valued (coefficient -0.01, [SE 0.01]) as expected. The preference heterogeneity analysis was conducted after adjusting the interaction terms, we found that rural residents with higher educational attainment prefer good attitude than those with lower educational attainment counterparts. The estimated willingness to pay (WTP) for “high” relative to “low” competence was 441.13 RMB/year and WTP for a provider with a “good” relative to a “poor” attitude was 255.77 RMB/year. Conclusion: This present study suggested priorities should be given to strengthen and improve the quality of primary health care including family doctors’ competence and attitudes so as to increase the uptake of signing FDCS. The contract service package including annual cost, insurance reimbursement rate and individualized services should be redesigned and become congruent with residents with different health status and their stated preferences.
Neuromuscular shoulder activity during exercises with different combinations of stable and unstable weight mass
Authors: Baritello Omar , Khajooei Mina , Engel Tilman , Kopinski Stephan , Quarmby Andrew , Mueller Steffen , Mayer Frank
Published: December 2019

Background:Recent shoulder injury prevention programs have utilized resistance exercises combined with different forms of instability, with the goal of eliciting functional adaptations and thereby reducing the risk of injury. However, it is still unknown how an unstable weight mass (UWM) affects the muscular activity of the shoulder stabilizers. Aim of the study was to assess neuromuscular activity of dynamic shoulder stabilizers under four conditions of stable and UWM during three shoulder exercises. It was hypothesized that a combined condition of weight with UWM would elicit greater activation due to the increased stabilization demand.
Methods:Sixteen participants (7 m/9 f) were included in this cross-sectional study and prepared with an EMG-setup for the: Mm. upper/lower trapezius (U.TA/L.TA), lateral deltoid (DE), latissimus dorsi (LD), serratus anterior (SA) and pectoralis major (PE). A maximal voluntary isometric contraction test (MVIC; 5 sec.) was performed on an isokinetic dynamometer. Next, internal/external rotation (In/Ex), abduction/adduction (Ab/Ad) and diagonal flexion/extension (F/E) exercises (5 reps.) were performed with four custom-made-pipes representing different training conditions. First, the empty-pipe (P; 0.5 kg) and then, randomly ordered, water-filled-pipe (PW; 1 kg), weight-pipe (PG; 4.5 kg) and weight + water-filled-pipe (PWG; 4.5 kg), while EMG was recorded. Raw root mean square values (RMS) were normalized to MVIC (%MVIC). Differences between conditions for RMS%MVIC, scapular stabilizer (SR : U.TA/L.TA; U.TA/SA) and contraction (CR : concentric/eccentric) ratios were analyzed (paired t-test; a = 0.05; Bonferroni adjusted a = 0.008).
Results:PWG showed significantly greater muscle activity for all exercises and all muscles except for PE compared to P and PW. Condition PG elicited muscular activity comparable to PWG (p> 0.008) with significantly lower activation of L.TA and SA in the In/Ex rotation. The SR ratio was significantly higher in PWG compared to P and PW. No significant differences were found for the CR ratio in all exercises and for all muscles.
Conclusion:Higher weight generated greater muscle activation whereas an UWM raised the neuromuscular activity, increasing the stabilization demands. Especially in the In/Ex rotation, an unstable weight mass increased the RMS%MVIC and SR ratio. This might improve training effects in shoulder prevention and rehabilitation programs.
Diverse biological processes coordinate the transcriptional response to nutritional changes in a Drosophila melanogaster multiparent population
Authors: Ng'oma Enoch , Williams-Simon Patricka A. , Rahman Aniqa , King Elizabeth G.
Published: December 2019

Background: Environmental variation in the amount of resources available to populations challenge individuals to optimize the allocation of those resources to key fitness functions. This coordination of resource allocation relative to resource availability is commonly attributed to key nutrient sensing gene pathways in laboratory model organisms, chiefly the insulin/TOR signaling pathway. However, the genetic basis of diet-induced variation in gene expression is less clear. Results: To describe the natural genetic variation underlying nutrient-dependent differences, we used an outbred panel derived from a multiparental population, the Drosophila Synthetic Population Resource. We analyzed RNA sequence data from multiple female tissue samples dissected from flies reared in three nutritional conditions: high sugar (HS), dietary restriction (DR), and control (C) diets. A large proportion of genes in the experiment (19.6% or 2,471 genes) were significantly differentially expressed for the effect of diet, 7.8% (978 genes) for the effect of the interaction between diet and tissue type (LRT, P adj. < 0.05). Interestingly, we observed similar patterns of gene expression relative to the C diet, in the DR and HS treated flies, a response likely reflecting diet component ratios. Hierarchical clustering identified 21 robust gene modules showing intra-modularly similar patterns of expression across diets, all of which were highly significant for diet or diet-tissue interaction effects (false discovery rate, FDR P adj. < 0.05). Gene set enrichment analysis for different diet-tissue combinations revealed a diverse set of pathways and gene ontology (GO) terms (two-sample t-test, FDR < 0.05). GO analysis on individual co-expressed modules likewise showed a large number of terms encompassing a large number of cellular and nuclear processes (Fisher exact test, P adj. < 0.01). Although a handful of genes in the IIS/TOR pathway including Ilp5 , Rheb , and Sirt2 showed significant elevation in expression, known key genes such as InR , chico , insulin peptide genes, and the nutrient-sensing pathways were not observed. Conclusions: Our results suggest that a more diverse network of pathways and gene networks mediate the diet response in our population. These results have important implications for future studies focusing on diet responses in natural populations.
Survival and mortality of elderly men with localized prostate cancer managed with primary androgen deprivation therapy or by primary observation
Authors: Seikkula Heikki , Boström Peter J. , Seppä Karri , Pitkäniemi Janne , Malila Nea , Kaipia Antti
Published: December 2019

Background: Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) remains a primary treatment for localized prostate cancer (PCa) even though there is no evidence that its use is beneficial in the absence of curative treatment.
Methods: Men aged ≥70 years ( n = 16534) diagnosed with localized PCa from 1985 to 2014 and managed either with primary observation or ADT in the absence of curative treatment were included. The cases were identified from the population-based Finnish Cancer Registry. We estimated the standardized mortality ratios (SMR) for overall mortality by treatment group. We determined the relative risk (RR) of PCa-specific mortality (PCSM) and other-cause mortality between the two treatment groups. Survival was determined using the life table method. Two age groups (70–79 years and ≥80 years) and three calendar time cohorts (1985–1994, 1995–2004, and 2005–2014) were compared following adjustment of propensity score matching between the treatment groups with four covariates (age, year of diagnosis, educational level, and hospital district). Follow-up continued until death or until December 31, 2015.
Results: Patients in the observation group had lower overall SMRs than those in the ADT group in both age cohorts over the entire study period. PCSM was higher in men aged 70–79 years undergoing primary ADT compared to those managed by observation only (RR: 1.70, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.29–2.23 [1985–1994]; RR 1.55, 95% CI: 1.35–1.84 [1995–2004]; and RR 2.71, 95% CI: 2.08–3.53 [2005–2014]); p = 0.005 for periodic trend. A similar trend over time was also observed in men aged >80 years; ( p for age–period interaction = 0.237). Overall survival was also higher among men in their 70’s managed by observation compared to those undergoing ADT.
Conclusions: Primary ADT is not associated with improved long-term overall survival or decreased PCSM compared to primary conservative management for men with localized PCa. However, this observational study’s conclusions should be weighted with confounding factors related to cancer aggressiveness and comorbidities.
The combination of transversus abdominis plane block and rectus sheath block reduced postoperative pain after splenectomy
Authors: Zhu Jingli , Wang Xue-ting , Gong Jing , Sun Hai-bin , Zhao Xiao-qing , Gao Wei
Published: December 2019

Background: Splenectomy performed with a curved incision results in severe postoperative pain. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of transversus abdominis plane block and rectus sheath block on postoperative pain relief and recovery.Methods: A total of 150 patients were randomized into the control (C), levobupivacaine (L) and levobupivacaine/morphine (LM) groups. The patients in the C group received only patient-controlled analgesia. The patients in the L and LM groups received transversus abdominis plane block and rectus sheath block with levobupivacaine or levobupivacaine plus morphine. The intraoperative opioid consumption; postoperative pain score; time to first analgesic use; postoperative recovery data, including the times of first exhaust, defecation, oral intake and off-bed activity; the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting and antiemetics use; and the satisfaction score were recorded.Results: Transversus abdominis plane block and rectus sheath block reduced intraoperative opioid consumption. The patients in the LM group showed lower postoperative pain scores, opioid consumption, postoperative nausea and vomiting incidence and antiemetic use and presented shorter recovery times and higher satisfaction scores.Conclusions: The combination of transversus abdominis plane block and rectus sheath block with levobupivacaine and morphine can improve postoperative pain relief, reduce the consumption of analgesics, and partly accelerate postoperative recovery.
Responses of the photosynthetic characteristics and chloroplast ultrastructure of Welsh onion (Allium fistulosum L.) to different LED light qualities
Authors: Gao Song , Liu Xuena , Liu Ying , Cao Bili , Chen Zijing , Xu Kun
Published: December 2019

Background: The optimized illumination of plants using light-emitting diodes (LEDs) is beneficial to theirphotosynthetic performance. Because of this, in recent years LEDs have been widely used in horticultural facilities. However, there are significant differences in the responses of different crops to light quality. The influence of light quality on photosynthesis needs to be further explored to provide theoretical guidance for the adjustment of the light environment in industrial crop production. This study tested the effects of different qualities of LED lighting (white, W; blue, B; green, G; yellow, Y; and red, R) with the sama photon flux density (300 μmol/m2·s) on the growth and development, photosynthesis, chlorophyll fluorescence characteristics, leaf structure, and chloroplast ultrastructure of Welsh onion (Allium fistulosum L.) plants.
Results: The results showed that the plant height, leaf area, and fresh weight of plants in the W and B treatments were significantly higher than those in the other treatments. The photosynthetic pigment content and net photosynthetic ratein the W treatment were significantly higher than those in the monochromatic light treatments, while the transpiration rate (E) and stomatal conductance (Gs) were the highest in the B treatment, and the intercellular CO2 concentration (Ci) was the highest in the Y treatment. Among the chlorophyll fluorescence characteristics tested, the non-photochemical quenching coefficient (NPQ) was the highest in the Y treatment, while the maximum photochemical efficiency of photosystem II (PSII) under dark adaptation (Fv/Fm), maximum photochemical efficiency of PSII under light adaptation (Fv'/Fm'), photochemical quenching coefficient (qP), actual photochemical efficiency (ΦPSII), and apparent electron transport rate (ETR) all differed among treatments in the following order: W > B > R > G > Y. Both leaf structure and chloroplast ultrastructure showed the most complete development in the B treatment.
Conclusions: In summary, in addition to W light, B light significantly improved the photosynthetic efficiency of Welsh onion, whereas Y light significantly reduced the photosynthetic efficiency of this plant.
Clinical effect analysis and radiographic outcomes of Isobar TTL system for two-segmental lumbar degenerative disease: a retrospective study
Authors: ji zhisheng , Ji Zhi-Sheng , Yang Hua , Yang Yu-Hao , Li Shao-Jin , Luo Jian-Xian , Zhang Guo-Wei , Lin Hong-Sheng
Published: December 2019

Background: Non-fusion fixation is an effective way to treat lumbar degeneration. The present study evaluated the clinical effect analysis and radiographic outcomes of Isobar TTL system for two-segmental lumbar degenerative disease. Method: Forty-one patients with two-segmental lumbar degenerative disease who underwent surgical treatment by Isobar TTL dynamic stabilization system (n=20) and rigid system (n=21) from January 2013 to June 2017. The mean follow-up period was 23.6 (range 15–37) months. Clinical outcomes were evaluated by oswestry dysfunction index (ODI), visual analogue score (VAS) and modified Macnab. Radiographic evaluations included the height of intervertebral space and range of motion (ROM) of the operative segments and proximal adjacent segment. The intervertebral disc signal change was classified by the modified Pfirrmann grade and University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) system. Results: The clinical outcomes including the ODI and VAS were significantly improved in two groups after operation, but the difference between two groups was not significant. In addition, the clinical efficacy of modified Macnab in two groups was similar too. Radiologic outcomes include height of intervertebral space, lumbar mobility and intervertebral disc signal. The height of intervertebral space of upper adjacent segments of L2/3 in the rigid group were significantly lower than those in the Isobar TTL group at the last follow-up. Furthermore, the number of fixed segment ROM of L3/4 in Isobar TTL group was significantly lower than pre-operation, suggesting that fixed segment ROMs in Isobar TTL group were limited. And, the ROM of upper adjacent segments of L2/3 in the last follow-up of rigid group increased significantly, while the ROM of L2/3 in Isobar TTL group haven’t changed after operation. At last, the incidence of adjacent segment degeneration was significantly greater in the rigid group than the Isobar TTL group according to modified Pfirrmann grading system and the UCLA system. Conclusion: Isobar TTL system could get a good clinical effect for treatment of two-segmental lumbar degenerative disease. Compared with rigid fixation, Isobar TTL system can get better radiographic outcomes and maintain the mobility of the stabilized segments with less influence on the proximal adjacent segment.
Risk factor analysis for progressive spinal deformity after resection of intracanal tumors─ a retrospective study of 272 cases
Authors: Wang Pangbo , Ma Kang , Chen Tunan , Xue Xingsen , Ma Dada , Wang Shi , Chen Xin , Meng Hui , Cui Gaoyu , Gao Boyuan , Lin Jiangkai , Feng Hua , Chu Weihua
Published: December 2019

Background: Progressive spinal deformity has become a well-recognized complication of intracanal tumors resection. However, the factors affecting post-operative spinal stability remain to be further research. Here, we described the current largest series of risk factors analysis for progressive spinal deformity following resection of intracanal tumors. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of the patients with resection of intracanal tumors between January 2009 and December 2018. All patients who underwent resection of intracanal tumors performed regular postoperative follow-up were identified and included in the study. Clinical, radiological, surgical, histopathological, and follow-up data were collected. The incidence of postoperative progressive kyphosis or scoliosis was calculated. The statistical relationship between postoperative progressive spinal deformity and radiographic, clinical, and surgical variables was assessed by using univariate tests and multivariate logistic regression analysis. Results: Two hundred seventy-two patients (mean age 42.56 ± 16.18 years) with median preoperative modified McCormick score of 3 met the inclusion criteria. Among them, 7（2.6%）patients were found to have spinal deformity preoperatively, and the extent of spinal deformity in these 7 patients deteriorated after surgery. 36 (13.2%) were new cases of postoperative progressive deformity. The mean duration of follow-up was 21.8 months (median 14 months, range 6–114 months). In subsequent multivariate logistic regression analysis, age≤18 years (p=0.027), vertebral levels of tumor involvement (p = 0.019) and preoperative spinal deformity(p=0.008) was the independent risk factors (p < 0.05), increasing the odds of postoperative progressive spinal deformity by 3.94- , 0.69- and 27.11-fold, respectively. Conclusions: The incidence of postoperative progressive spinal deformity was 15.8%, mostly in these patients who had younger age (≤18 years), tumors involved in multiple segments and preoperative spinal deformity. The risk factors of postoperative progressive spinal deformity warrants serious reconsideration that when performing resection of spinal cord tumors in these patients with such risk factors, the surgeons should consider conducting follow-ups more closely, and when patients suffering from severe symptoms or gradually increased spinal deformity, surgical spinal fusion may be a more suitable choice to reduce the risk of reoperation and improve the prognosis of patients.
Iodine concentration and content measured by dual-source computed tomography are correlated to thyroid hormone levels in euthyroid patients: a cross-sectional study in China
Authors: Li ZhengTeng , Zhai Rui , Liu HongMei , Wang Min , Pan Dongmei
Published: December 2019

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation of the dual energy CT measured iodine concentration and total iodine content with blood measured thyroid parameters. Methods: 43 patients with normal thyroid function at our hospital from August 2017 to October 2019 were included in this retrospective study. Dual energy CT was used to scan the neck of thyroid patients. The mean iodine concentration and thyroid tissue volume were measured to calculate the total iodine content of the thyroid. Relevant tests of triiodothyronine (FT3), total triiodothyronine (TT3), total thyroxine (TT4), free thyroxine (FT4), and thyroid hormone (TSH) were conducted. The correlation of the thyroid mean iodine concentration and total iodine content with blood-measured thyroid function was analysed. Result: The total iodine content in the thyroid was positively correlated with FT3 but negatively correlated with TSH. The mean iodine concentration of the thyroid was positively correlated with both FT3 and TT3. Conclusion : The thyroid iodine content measured by dual energy CT can be used to determine the human iodine nutritional status and evaluate thyroid function, which will facilitate the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid diseases.
Healthcare Utilization and Out-of-Pocket Expenditures Associated with Depression in Adults: A Cross-Sectional Analysis in Nepal
Authors: Rajan Selina , Rathod Sujit D , Luitel Nagendra P , Murphy Adrianna , Roberts Tessa , Jord Mark JD
Published: December 2019

Background: Despite attempts to improve universal healthcare coverage (UHC) in low income countries like Nepal, most healthcare utilization is still financed by out-of-pocket (OOP) payments, with detrimental effects on the poorest and most in need. Evidence from high income countries shows that depression is associated with increased healthcare utilization, which may lead to increased OOP expenditures, placing greater stress on families. To inform policies for integrating mental healthcare into UHC in LMIC, we must understand healthcare utilization and OOP expenditure patterns in people with depression. Aims: We examined associations between symptoms of depression and frequency and type of healthcare utilization and OOP expenditure among adults in Chitwan District, Nepal. Methods: We analysed data from a population-based survey of 2040 adults in 2013, who completed the PHQ-9 screening tool for depression and answered questions about healthcare utilization. We modelled associations between increasing PHQ-9 score and healthcare utilization frequency and OOP expenditure using negative binomial regression. We also compared sector-specific utilization of outpatient healthcare and their related costs among adults with and without probable depression, determined by a PHQ-9 score of 10 or more. Results: We classified 80 (3.6%) participants with probable depression, 70.9% of whom used some form of healthcare in the past year compared to 43.9% of people without probable depression. Mean annual OOP healthcare expenditures were $118 USD in people with probable depression, compared to $110 USD in people without. With each unit increase in PHQ-9 score, there was a 14% increase in total healthcare visits (95% CI 7%-22%, p<0.0001) and $9 USD increase in OOP expenditures (95% CI $2-$17; p<0.0001). People with depression sought most healthcare from pharmacists (30.1%) but reported the greatest expenditure on specialist doctors ($36 USD). Conclusions: In this population-based sample from Central Nepal, we identified dose-dependent increases in healthcare utilization and OOP expenditure with increasing PHQ-9 scores. Strengthening UHC to include early detection and treatment for people affected by depression as an integrated component of healthcare should lead to a reduction in financial pressures on families, which is likely to reduce the incidence of depression in Nepal.