bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Análisis sísmico y diseño estructural de un edificio de concreto armado en esquina de cuatro pisos y un semisótano con problema torsional
Authors:   ,   Universidad Peruana de Ciencias Aplicadas (UPC), Luna Collazos Juan Arturo
Published: December 2020

En la presente tesis se analiza el problema torsional extremo de un edificio en esquina de cuatro pisos y un semisótano. Los edificios en esquinas comúnmente presentan un diseño arquitectónico comercial, que aprovecha el perímetro colindante con la calle para poner ventanas y mamparas. Sin embargo, este diseño arquitectónico no toma en cuenta irregularidades estructurales. Una de las irregularidades es la torsional. La torsión es consecuencia de las excentricidades entre el Centro de Masa (CM) y el Centro de Rigidez (CR) en ambos ejes. Para la presente tesis se plantea la siguiente hipótesis: “El caso en estudio presenta irregularidad torsional extrema dada su arquitectura y su ubicación en esquina. Esta irregularidad no está permitida según Norma en Edificaciones categoría “C” y con zonificación 4, por lo que se deberá aumentar la rigidez en zonas críticas. Esta rigidez no depende del incremento de gran longitud de placas sino de su espesor y su ubicación dentro de la estructuración, para su demostración se proponen cinco modelos que se analizan sísmicamente empleando la Norma Técnica E030-2016 teniendo como punto de partida, los planos de arquitectura y una estructuración base; para luego escoger uno de los cinco modelos y realizar el correspondiente diseño estructural de todos los elementos de la edificación”. Además, la tesis tiene como valor añadido el análisis torsional bajo tres normas técnicas de Sismoresistencia de los años 2003, 2016 y 2018, con el objetivo de encontrar diferencias sustanciales entre ellas. Además, se plantea realizar el respectivo análisis Tiempo-Historia del modelo solución.
Modelo computacional para el análisis matricial de estructuras reticulares
Authors:   ,   Universidad Peruana de Ciencias Aplicadas (UPC), Diaz Barrantes Frank Diego , Guillén Hernández Álvaro Ricardo
Published: December 2020

Esta tesis desarrolla las teorías y programación de un modelo computacional diseñado para el análisis estructural, mediante el método matricial, de estructuras reticulares. El modelo fue realizado con la finalidad de ser implementado en la universidad como material de apoyo para los estudiantes de ingeniería civil y con la visión de que futuros tesistas sigan desarrollando el programa hasta obtener un software comercial desarrollado en esta casa de estudios. Este modelo computacional fue programado con la ayuda del IDE (Integrated Development Environment) Matlab, el cual usa su propio lenguaje de programación (lenguaje M). En esta tesis se muestran resultados de cálculo, gráficos además de flujogramas y códigos de la programación para armaduras planas y pórticos planos.
Kajian Pustaka: Pemanfaatan Eksopolisakarida Bakteri Asam Laktat Probiotik Asal Produk Pangan Fermentasi sebagai Imunomodulator
Authors: Mundiri Nur Ashiddiqi , Megantara Imam , Anggaeni Trianing Tyas Kusuma
Published: December 2020

Meningkatnya kasus yang terkait dengan sistem imun, seperti infeksi mendorong para peneliti untuk menemukan alternatif imunomodulator baru yang aman dan efektif. Eksopolisakarida adalah polisakarida hasil sintesis dari bakteri asam laktat yang dilepaskan pada ekstraseluler sel. Umumnya, eksopolisakarida digunakan sebagai peningkat tekstur dan cita rasa pada industri pangan, namun eksopolisakarida diketahui memiliki potensi sebagai imunomodulator yang berperan dalam sistem imun bawaan pada pencernaan. Eksopolisakarida bakteri asam laktat mampu meningkatkan sistem imun bawaan melalui peran dari gut associated lymphoid tissue (GALT). Penggunaan eksopolisakarida sebagai imunomodulator telah banyak dilakukan yang dibuktikan secara in vitro dan in vivo pada hewan uji tikus dan mencit, dan diperoleh hasil berupa peningkatan aktivitas makrofag, produksi sitokin serta mampu menstimulasi pembentukan IgA. Studi literatur ini membahas mengenai eksopolisakarida sebagai imunomodulator yang meliputi pemanfaatan eksopolisakarida yang dihasilkan oleh bakteri asam laktat dan mekanisme kerja dari bakteri asam laktat dalam mempengaruhi sistem imun bawaan.
Hagiografía y medicina (I): intercesión de la santidad en el arte médico del Compendio de la humana salud (1494) de Johannes de Ketham
Authors:   Universidad Veracruzana, Mexico, Cortés Guadarrama Marcos
Published: December 2020

By means of two Latin writings, quickly translated into Spanish and published as incunabula: Flos sanctorum con sus ethimologías (derived from Legenda aurea) and Compendio de la humana salud (derived from Finis Fasciculi medicine), this work aims to examine the connection between hagiography and early modern medical arts. Generally, the narrative construction of the medical treatise from the 15th century —of a notorious providentialism— hasn´t been very analyzed, even less when it comes to saying that the hagiographic aspects, quoted in the medical literature, sustain and encourage a series of concepts and empirical procedures that were seeking the resurrection of health. This work will analyze the fact that there was a premeditated intention to emphasize some of the festivities from the liturgic calendar as key moments for making the phlebotomy treatment and for putting a diagnostic to the illness, through the knowledge of the human body´s pulse. Finally, it will be pointed the fact that the hagiographic references from the medical literature, also allude to a symbolic reading form inside the ideas of the Christian creed.
INSTITUTING FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS ACTIONS IN NIGERIA: UNRESOLVED ISSUES
Authors:   Ph.D., Assoc. Prof. H.O.D, Dept. of PPL, Faculty of Law, Abia State University, Uturu, Nigeria. Dean, College of Law, Gregory University, Uturu, Nigeria, Chijioke Collins Obioma , Toby Boma Geoffrey ,   Senior Lecturer, Dept. of Jurisprudence and International Law, Faculty of Law, Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria
Published: December 2020

Instituting fundamental Right actions has become one of the most popular forms of litigations in Nigeria; and for this credit must be given to the very liberal Fundamental Rights (Enforcement Procedure) Rules, 2009 (FREP RULES) as against the FREP Rules, 1979 which is repealed. One cannot boldly say, without fear of contradiction that our courts are as proactive in their approach to some basic issues in fundamental rights litigation as the FREP Rules intends. This paper set out to re-visit the issue of jurisdiction in respect of fundamental rights litigations and required number of applicants permitted to institute to such actions; reviewing some authorities in the course and finally resolving that there is need for the apex court to finally distinguish between its decisions in Turkur v. Government of Gongola State (1988) All NLR 42 and Grace Jack v. University of Agriculture Makurdi (2004) LPELR – 1587 SC, (2004); 5NWLR (Pt. 865) 208 and to pronounce on the issue of the number of applicants that may present fundamental rights' cause in court; at any time it is called upon to do so. The paper also recommended in the alternative, tinkering of the FREP Rules to specifically handle the issues
Consenso Português para o Diagnóstico e Gestão Clínica da Demência com Corpos de Lewy (PORTUCALE)
Authors: Monteiro Ana , Velon Ana Graça , Rodrigues Ana Margarida , Oliveira Ana , Valadas Anabela , Nóbrega Camila , Cruto Catarina , Neutel Dulce , Simões do Couto Frederico , Morgado Joana , Cerejeira Joaquim , Ruano Luís , Gago Miguel , Grunho Miguel , Tábuas-Pereira Miguel , Taipa Ricardo , Moiron Simões Rita , Araújo Rui , Barreto Rui , Rocha Sofia , Massano João
Published: December 2020

A demência com corpos de Lewy é uma causa comum de demência, provocando a perda progressiva de funções cognitivas e capacidades motoras, alterações comportamentais, e perda de autonomia, com compromisso da qualidade de vida dos doentes e seus familiares. Apesar de ser a segunda causa mais frequente de demência neurodegenerativa, o diagnóstico mantém-se um desafio, devido à sua apresentação clínica heterogénea, sobretudo nas fases iniciais da doença. Por conseguinte, a demência com corpos de Lewy é frequentemente mal diagnosticada e clinicamente gerida de forma insuficiente. A falta de acuidade diagnóstica tem implicações significativas para os doentes, dada a maior suscetibilidade aos efeitos adversos de determinados fármacos, tais como os antipsicóticos, que podem agravar alguns sintomas associados à demência com corpos de Lewy. Por conseguinte, um consenso de especialistas, baseado na análise da literatura mais atual e relevante, e na experiência clínica, é útil para todos os profissionais envolvidos no cuidado destes doentes. O objetivo deste trabalho é informar e gerar recomendações acerca das melhores abordagens diagnóstica e terapêutica da demência com corpos de Lewy em Portugal. Além disso, sugerimos estratégias para aumentar a sensibilização dos médicos, dos decisores políticos e da sociedade em geral em relação a esta doença.
Critérios de Prescrição de Análises de ‘Rotina’ em Medicina Geral e Familiar
Authors: Afonso Rute
Published: December 2020

N/a.
PENGARUH INTELLECTUAL CAPITAL TERHADAP RETURN SAHAM PERUSAHAAN MANUFAKTUR DI INDONESIA
Authors: Setyawati Erlinda Pudji , Irwanto Andry
Published: December 2020

Introduction: Peningkatan pengenalan dan pemanfaatan intellectual capital akan membantu meningkatkan kinerja keuangan perusahaan sehingga kepercayaan stakeholder terhadap going concern turut meningkat yang dapat mempengaruhi return saham perusahaan. Methods: Populasi yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah perusahaan manufaktur yang terdaftar di Bursa Efek Indonesia tahun 2011–2013 sebanyak 131 perusahaan. Teknik pengambilan sampel pada penelitian ini menggunakan random sampling/probability sampling yaitu cara pengambilan sampel yang memberikan kesempatan yang sama kepada setiap elemen populasi untuk dijadikan sampel, dengan cara mencari ringkasan laporan keuangan setiap perusahaan manufaktur dan harga saham aktif di perdagangkan di Bursa Efek Indonesia mulai tahun 2010 hingga 2013, sehingga jumlah sampel yang diambil berdasarkan teknik sampling tersebut sebanyak 50 perusahaan manufaktur yang terdaftar di Bursa Efek Indonesia.Results: . Dari hasil pengujian menunjukkan bahwa Capital Employed Efficiency (CEE) berpengaruh positif signifikan terhadap return saham perusahaan manufaktur di Bursa Efek Indonesia. Human Capital Efficiency (HCE) berpengaruh positif signifikan terhadap return saham perusahaan manufaktur di Bursa Efek Indonesia. Structural Capital Efficiency (SCE) berpengaruh positif tidak signifikan terhadap return saham perusahaan manufaktur di Bursa Efek Indonesia.Conclusion and suggestion: Bagi pihak perusahaan, hasil penelitianini diharapkan dapat digunakan sebagai informasi tambahan dalam pengelolaan modal intelektual perusahaan khususnya Structural Capital Efficiency (SCE) karena variabel ini tidak terbukti dapat meningkatkan return saham.
PSYCHOLOGICAL CAPITAL DAN FAKTOR KEBERHASILAN PEMBERDAYAAN EKONOMI PADA KOMUNITAS USAHA BATIK
Authors: Syuhada Muhammad Nur
Published: December 2020

Kemiskinan tidak hanya bisa dilihat dari kacamata ekonomi, melainkan pemahaman faktor psikologis juga sangat diperlukan. Keberadaan Posdaya migunani yang terletak di Dusun Plalangan, Pondowoharjo, Sleman Yogyakarta, sejak beberapa tahun terakhir ini terbukti telah berhasil memberdayakan warga sekitarnya dan mengentaskan kemiskinan. Salah satunya adalah melalui program pemberdayaan perempuan dengan pembentukan Komunitas Usaha Batik Ayu Arimbi yang melibatkan ibu-ibu rumah tangga di dusun tersebut. Hal yang menarik untuk dikaji dari Komunitas Usaha Batik Ayu Arimbi tersebut adalah bagaimana psychological capital pada anggota komunitas usaha tersebut. Selain itu perlunya juga memahami bagaimana program pemberdayaan ekonomi pada Komunitas Batik Ayu Arimbi tersebut dapat berhasil secara organisasi komunitas hingga mampu memberikan penghasilan bagi para anggotanya. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kualitatif dengan pendekatan analisis fenomenologis interpretatif. Partisipan dipilih berdasarkan purposive sampling dengan kriteria ; 1) anggota Batik Ayu Arimbi, 2) masa bergabung komunitas minimal 3 tahun. Pengumpulan data dilakukan dengan menggunakan wawancara semi-terstruktur yang dipandu oleh panduan wawancara. Penelitian ini bertujuan agar dapat mengungkapkan bagaimana psychological capital dan faktor keberhasilan pemberdayaan ekonomi pada Komunitas Usaha Batik. Dan penelitian ini diharapkan nantinya dapat memberikan manfaat khasanah pengetahuan dan memberikan sumbangsih masukan pada program pemberdayaan pengetasan kemiskinan baik itu dari pemerintah ataupun organisasi masyarakat.
Potential Biomarkers for Cervical Cancer Screening and Treatment
Authors: Uyeda Mari , Subramanian Mahendran
Published: December 2020

Cervical cancer (CC) is the most common cancer in women worldwide and is almost always associated with repeated infections by human papillomavirus (HPV). Screening by traditional tests combined with biomarker identification techniques for low- or high-grade injuries, are becoming increasingly important in diagnosis and prognosis, avoiding countless deaths. This article explores existing literature on the main serum biomarkers and the identification of biomarkers associated with the oncogenesis of HPV expression in the identification of pre-cancerous lesions and of CC for an effective treatment, with reduction of recurrence, as well as we explain strategies for the development of biomarkers based on DNA, proteins and other markers. We also describe how markers of chromosomal instability host DNA, promoting hypo- or hypermethylation of DNA, as well as polymorphisms and epigenetic events in the p53 gene. Finally, we discuss changes in gene expression using cDNA microarray techniques and changes in the expression of proteins and markers identified through mass spectrometry.
Volatile Compounds of Lemon and Grapefruit IntegroPectin
Authors: Scurria Antonino , Sciortino Marzia , Presentato Alessandro , Lino Claudia , Piacenza Elena , Albanese Lorenzo , Zabini Federica , Meneguzzo Francesco , Nuzzo Domenico , Pagliaro Mario , Chillura Martino Delia Francesca , Alduina Rosa , Avellone Giuseppe , Ciriminna Rosaria
Published: December 2020

The HS-SPME GC-MS analysis of the volatile compounds adsorbed at the outer surface of lemon and grapefruit pectins obtained via hydrodynamic cavitation of industrial waste streams of lemon and grapefruit peels in water only suggests important new findings en route to understanding the powerful and broad biological activity of these new pectic materials. In agreement with the ultralow degree of esterification of these pectins, the high amount of highly bioactive α-terpineol and terpinen-4-ol points to limonene decomposition catalyzed by residual citric acid in the citrus waste peel residue of the juice industrial production.
The Role of the Gut Microbiome in Liver Fibrosis
Authors: Lee Na Young , Suk Ki Tae
Published: December 2020

Liver cirrhosis is one of the most prevalent chronic liver diseases worldwide. In addition to viral hepatitis, genetic conditions such as steatohepatitis, autoimmune hepatitis, sclerosing cholangitis, and Wilson’s disease can also lead to cirrhosis. Moreover, alcohol can cause cirrhosis on its own and exacerbate chronic liver disease from other causes. The treatment of cirrhosis can be divided into addressing the cause of cirrhosis and reversing liver fibrosis. To this date, there is still no clear consensus on the treatment of cirrhosis. Recently, there has been a lot of interest in potential treatments that modulate the gut microbiota and gut-liver axis for the treatment of cirrhosis. According to recent studies, modulation of the gut microbiome by probiotics ameliorates the progression of liver disease. The precise mechanism for relieving cirrhosis via gut microbial modulation has not been identified. This paper summarizes the role and effects of the gut microbiome in cirrhosis based on experimental and clinical studies on absorbable antibiotics, probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics. Moreover, it provides evidence of a relationship between the gut microbiome and liver cirrhosis.
Conflicting and Ambiguous Names of Overlapping ORFs in SARS-CoV-2: A Homology-Based Resolution
Authors: Jungreis Irwin , Nelson Chase W. , Ardern Zachary , Finkel Yaara , Krogan Nevan J. , Sato Kei , Ziebuhr John , Stern-Ginossar Noam , Pavesi Angelo , Firth Andrew E. , Gorbalenya Alexander E. , Kellis Manolis
Published: December 2020

At least six small alternate-frame open reading frames (ORFs) overlapping well-characterized SARS-CoV-2 genes have been hypothesized to encode accessory proteins. Researchers have used different names for the same ORF or the same name for different ORFs, resulting in erroneous homological and functional inferences. We propose standard names for these ORFs and their shorter isoforms, developed in consultation with the Coronaviridae Study Group of the ICTV. We recommend calling the 39 codon Spike-overlapping ORF ORF2b; the 41, 57, and 22 codon ORF3a-overlapping ORFs ORF3c, ORF3d, and ORF3b; the 33 codon ORF3d isoform ORF3d-2; and the 97 and 73 codon Nucleocapsid-overlapping ORFs ORF9b and ORF9c. Finally, we document conflicting usage of the name ORF3b in 32 studies, and consequent erroneous inferences, stressing the importance of reserving identical names for homologs. We recommend that authors referring to these ORFs provide lengths and coordinates to minimize ambiguity due to prior usage of alternative names.
Long-Lasting Graft Union Compatibility Enigma Explained by Comparative Physiological and Biochemical Mechanisms in Di, Tri, and Tetraploid Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus L.) Grafted by Branches
Authors: Kaseb Mohamed , Umer Muhammad Jawad , Gebremeskel Haileslassie , Mahmud Eftekhar , Diao Weinan , Yuan Pingli , Zhu Hongju , Zhao Shengjie , Lu Xuqiang , He Nan , Gong Chengsheng , Anees Muhammad , El-Eslamboly Ahmed , Liu Wenge
Published: December 2020

Polyploid seed production is complicated, and costly work, produce a fewer number of seeds/fruits as compared to diploid seeds. Here we investigated the interactive effect of a new grafting technique of polyploid watermelon scion onto rootstock on plants' survival rate. In this study, three different branches, apical meristem (AM), branch with 1 node (1N), and 2 nodes (2N) from di, tri, and tetraploid watermelon plants, were used as scion and grafted onto squash rootstock. The results showed highly significant differences between polypoid watermelon when 1N was used as a scion. Tetraploid showed maximum survival rates, higher contents of hormones, carbohydrates, and antioxidants activities, compared to diploid. Here, we also performed applied sucrose exogenously, on the rootstocks seedlings before grafting to enhance survival rates. Significant survival rates were observed in the case of 2% sucrose application in all polyploids when 1N was used as a scion. RTq-PCR results confirm that the expression of genes linked to compatibility is consistent with the carbohydrates, hormonal and antioxidants activities. This study provides an alternative and economical approach to produce more tetraploid and triploid plants for breeding and seed production by using branches as scions, furthermore, provides more understanding of graft compatibility.
Evaluating an Integrated Physical Model for Borehole-Leakoff Pressures
Authors: Hauser Matt R.
Published: December 2020

The wellbore pressure to initiate fluid loss during casing-shoe tests, lost-circulation events, etc. is a primary well-engineering constraint and is also frequently used to evaluate assumed wellbore- and field-scale stress distributions. Current modeling approaches commonly fit empirical equations or limited failure criteria to field data to estimate likely “fracture pressure”; a smooth bounding envelope on observed regional loss pressures is often assumed to reflect the background stress. Departures from predicted pressures are often attributed to complexities in local stresses or rock properties. This work describes and evaluates a model that combines reopening of existing fractures and initiation of new fractures, incorporating pure tensile modes as well as multiple near-wellbore shear modes. Compared with typical models, this mixed-mode model better matches a global data set of leakoff pressures; it also appears to extrapolate well, allowing better predictions when there are limited local data. In addition, field data cluster tightly around predicted initiation or reopening pressures, giving a different perspective on variations in test results and potentially allowing improved evaluations of underlying stress models.
Health behaviors in major chronic diseases patients: Trends and regional variations analysis, 2008–2017, Korea
Authors: Jeon Young-Jee , Pyo Jeehee , Park Young-Kwon , Ock Minsu
Published: December 2020

Background: Improving the health behaviors of those with chronic diseases such as hypertension and diabetes is important for disease management. Few in-depth studies have been conducted in Korea on the health behaviors of chronic disease patients. This study examined the health behaviors of chronic disease patients over time and compared them with those of the general population.Methods: Cross-sectional time-series data obtained from the Korea Community Health Survey from 2008 to 2017 were analyzed. Thirteen diseases were included in this analysis, namely, hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, stroke, myocardial infarction, angina, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, asthma, allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis, cataract, and depression. The current smoking rate, drinking rate, and the walking rate, which are leading health behaviors necessary for preventing chronic diseases, were analyzed by disease type. We compared patients’ health behaviors with those of the general population and identified regional variations.Results: Although the current overall smoking rate was seemingly declining, the overall monthly drinking and high-risk drinking rates were increasing. In 2017, patients experiencing depression symptoms had a higher smoking rate than did the general population; hypertension and diabetes patients had a higher risk-drinking rate than did the latter. The general population’s walking rate was highest. There were considerable variations by region among chronic disease patients.Conclusions: Chronic disease patients displayed worse health behaviors than those of the general population, in some instances. Rather than focusing only on chronic disease patients’ medication adherence, strategies must be devised to increase their smoking cessation rate, decrease their drinking rate, and increase their walking rate.
Efficient human-like antibody repertoire and hybridoma production in trans-chromosomic mice carrying megabase-sized human immunoglobulin loci
Authors: Satofuka Hiroyuki , Abe Satoshi , Moriwaki Takashi , Okada Akane , Kazuki Kanako , Tanaka Hiroshi , Yamazaki Kyoutarou , Hichiwa Genki , Morimoto Kayoko , Takayama Haruka , Nakayama Yuji , Hatano Shinya , Baba Yoshihiro , Oshimura Mitsuo , Tomizuka Kazuma , Kazuki Yasuhiro
Published: December 2020

Trans-chromosomic (Tc) mice carrying mini-chromosomes with human immunoglobulin (Ig) loci have contributed to the development of fully human therapeutic monoclonal antibodies (Abs); however, we previously observed that mitotic instability of human mini-chromosomes in mice has limited the efficiency of hybridoma production. Here, we established a new generation of human Ab producing Tc mice (TC-mAb mice), which stably maintain a mouse-derived engineered chromosome containing the entire human Ig heavy and kappa chain loci in a mouse Ig knockout background. Comprehensive, high-throughput DNA sequencing revealed that the human Ig repertoire, including variable gene use, was well recapitulated in TC-mAb mice. Despite slightly altered B cell development and a delayed immune response, immunized TC-mAb mice exhibited more subsets of antigen-specific plasmablast and plasma cells compared with wild-type mice, leading to high efficiency hybridoma production. Thus, TC-mAb mice offer a valuable platform to obtain fully human therapeutic Abs and to elucidate the regulation of human Ig repertoire formation.
Early growth response 2 regulates mouse cooperative behavior
Authors: Xiao Ming , Zhang Yanli , Feng Weixi , Wang Ze , Wang Tianqi , Pang Yingting , Jin Yuxi , Zou Ying , Chen Yan , Li Qian , Huang Huang , Sheng Chengyu
Published: December 2020

Social cooperation is essential to animals’ physical health and psychological state. However, the underlying molecular and neurobiological mechanisms remain poorly understood. Here, we established a novel model for systematically evaluating the cooperative behavior of mice for the task of water reward. Using this paradigm, we characterized cooperative deficits in isolated juvenile mice and the corrective effect of resocialization. Mechanistically, we found that the transcription factor early growth response 2 (Egr2)-dependent myelin maturation in the medial prefrontal cortex is necessary for the development of mice’s cooperative behavior. Additionally, corticosterone levels in the serum and medial prefrontal cortex were elevated in the isolated mice, potentially contributing to Egr2 expression reduction. This work suggests targeting Egr2 could be targeted for preventing and treating social isolation-related neuropsychiatric disorders in the future.
Superconductivity beyond Pauli's limit in bulk NbS2: Evidence for the Fulde-Ferrell-Larkin-Ovchinnikov state
Authors: Cho Chang-woo , Lyu Jian , Ng Cheuk , He James Jun , Abdel-Baset Tarob , Abdel-Hafiez Mahmoud , Lortz Rolf
Published: December 2020

We present magnetic torque, specific heat and thermal expansion measurements combined with a piezo rotary positioner of the bulk transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) superconductor NbS2 in high magnetic fields applied strictly parallel to its layer structure. The upper critical field of superconducting TMDs in the 2D form is known to be dramatically enhanced by a special form of Ising spin orbit coupling. This Ising superconductivity is very robust against the Pauli limit for superconductivity. We find that superconductivity beyond the Pauli limit still exists in bulk single crystals of NbS2. However, the comparison of our upper critical field transition line with numerical simulations rather points to the development of a Fulde-Ferrell-Larkin-Ovchinnikov state above the Pauli limit as a cause. This is also consistent with the observation of a magnetic field driven phase transition in the thermodynamic quantities within the superconducting state near the Pauli limit.
Emotional Responses And Perceived Stressors Of Frontline Medical Staffs In Case Of Addis Ababa Covid-19 Treatment Centers And Obstetrics Emergency And Abortion Care Clinic, Ethiopia; Analytical Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Kebede Mebratu , Demissie Dereje , Guddu Dessalegn , Haile Michael , Bitew Zebenay , Muleta Mahteme
Published: December 2020

Background: the rapid spread of COVID-19, its lethality in severe cases and the absence of specific medicine poses a huge threat to human life and health, as well as huge impact on the mental health. Facing this critical situation, health care workers on the front line who are directly involved in the diagnosis, treatment, and care of patients with COVID-19 are at risk of developing psychological distress and other mental health symptoms including emotional disturbance.Objective: the aim of this study will be to assess the current state of emotional responses and perceived stressors of frontline medical staffs in case of Addis Ababa COVID-19 Treatment Centers and obstetrics emergency and abortion care, Ethiopia 2020Methods: Hospital based comparative cross-section study design was conducted by using self-administered questionnaire survey from June 1st to 30th of 2020 among 133 and 266 frontline medical staffs from obstetric emergency and abortion care clinic and COVID-19 treatment centers respectively. The data were collected after getting written consent from each participant and it entered into the computer using Epi-data version 7, then exported to SPSS version 20 for further analysis. Descriptive analysis was done using frequencies & percent. All independent determinants with P-value <0.05 were used to identify important predictors of emotional responses and perceived stressors. Result; A total of 399 frontline medical staffs were included in the study. The mean age of the respondents of those who were working in obstetrics emergency and abortion care clinic was 27.47 (SD=3.46) years and it was 28.12 (SD=4.09) years for the other groups. This study revealed that, 72.9% and 5.6% of the study participant from obstetrics emergency and abortion clinic and COVID-19 treatment centers had a positive emotional response, respectively. Factors such as having a low level of motivational factors (AOR 2.78, 95% CI (1.13, 6.84)), being a nurse (AOR 10.53, 95% CI (1.31, 85.26)) and working at triage (AOR 8.61, 95% CI (1.15, 64.81))) had statistically significant association with negative emotional response.Conclusion; The current study revealed that a high proportion of front line a negative emotional responses had negative emotional response. Further, almost all of the medical staffs working in COVID-19 treatment centers and at obstetrics emergency and abortion care unit had perceived the outbreak related stressors. So, providing comprehensive psychological support is warranted for health care providers working in such kinds of department or units.
Study on the relationship of depression, anxiety, lifestyle and eating habits to the severity of reflux esophagitis
Authors: Wang Rongxin , Wang Jing , Hu Shuiqing
Published: December 2020

Background: The etiology of reflux esophagitis (RE) is multi-factorial. This study aims to analyze the risk factors of the RE, its severity and further explore the impact of anxiety and depression on the patients' symptoms and quality of life. Methods: From September 2016 to February 2018, a total of 689 subjects at Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University participated in the survey. They were divided into RE group (patients diagnosed as RE on gastroscopy, n = 361) and control group (healthy individuals without heartburn, regurgitation and other typical symptoms, n = 328). The survey included general demographic data, lifestyle habits, eating habits, GERD questionnaire (GerdQ), PHQ-9 depression scale and GAD-7 anxiety scale. Results: The mean age and sex ratio of the two groups were similar. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that low education level, drinking strong tea, preference for sweets and acidic foods, overeating, short interval between dinner and sleep, anxiety, depression, sleeping on low pillow and constipation were independent risk factors for RE (p< 0.05). Ordinal logistic regression analysis showed positive correlation between sleeping on low pillow and the severity of RE (p=0.024). Depression had positive correlation with the severity of symptoms (rs=0.375，P<0.001) and the quality of life (rs=0.306，P<0.001), whereas anxiety had no such association. Conclusions: Many lifestyle and eating habits are independent risk factors for the development of RE. Sleeping on low pillow was positively correlated with the severity of RE. Depression was positively related to the severity of symptoms and the quality of life.
MYPT1 reduction is a novel pathogenic factor of erectile dysfunction
Authors: Zhao Wei , Sun Jie , Yao Liang-Yu , Li Ye-Qiong , Chen Cai-Ping , Zhou Yu-Wei , Chen Xin , Tao Tao , Wei Li-Sha , Zheng Yan-Yan , Ge Xie , Li Chao-Jun , Xin Zhong-Cheng , Pan Yang , He Wei-Qi , Zhang Xue-Na , Yao Bing , Zhu Min-Sheng
Published: December 2020

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is closely associated with smooth muscle dysfunction, but its underlying mechanisms remains incompletely understood. We here reported that the reduced expression of myosin phosphatase target subunit 1 (MYPT1), the main regulatory unit of myosin light chain phosphatase, was critical for the development of vasculogenic ED. Male MYPT1 knockout mice had reduced fertility and the penises displayed abolished erections as evidenced by reduced intracavernous pressure (ICP). The penile smooth muscles of the knockout mice displayed enhanced contractility and resistant relaxation. We further identified a natural compound lotusine that increased the MYPT1 expression by inhibiting SIAH1/2 E3 ligases-mediated protein degradation. This compound sufficiently restored the ICP and improved histological characters of the penile artery of Mypt1 haploinsufficiency mice. In diabetic ED mice (db/db), the decreased expression of MYPT1 was measured, and ICP was restored by lotusine treatment. We conclude that the reduction of MYPT1 is the major pathogenic factor of vasculogenic ED. The restoration of MYPT1 by lotusine improved the function of injured penile smooth muscles, and could be a novel strategy for ED therapy.
Regulation of Arabidopsis photoreceptor CRY2 by two distinct E3 ubiquitin ligases
Authors: Chen Yadi , Hu Xiaohua , Liu Siyuan , Su Tiantian , Huang Hsiaochi , Ren Huibo , Gao Zhensheng , Wang Xu , Lin Deshu , Wang Qin , Lin Chentao
Published: December 2020

Cryptochromes (CRYs) are photoreceptors or components of the molecular clock in various evolutionary lineages, and they are commonly regulated by polyubiquitination and proteolysis. Multiple E3 ubiquitin ligases regulate CRYs in animal models, and previous genetics study also suggest existence of multiple E3 ubiquitin ligases for plant CRYs. However, only one E3 ligase, Cul4COP1-SPAs, has been reported for plant CRYs so far. Here we show that Cul3LRBs is the second E3 ligase of CRY2 in Arabidopsis. We demonstrated the blue light-specific and CRY-dependent activity of LRBs (Light-Response Bric-a-Brack/Tramtrack/Broad 1, 2 & 3) in blue-light regulation of hypocotyl elongation. LRBs physically interact with photoexcited and phosphorylated CRY2 to facilitate polyubiquitination and degradation of CRY2 in response to blue light. We propose that Cul4COP1-SPAs and Cul3LRBs E3 ligases interact with CRY2 via different structure elements to regulate the abundance of CRY2 photoreceptor under different light conditions, facilitating optimal photoresponses of plants grown in nature.
Using Deep Learning Models to Analyze The Cerebral Edema Complication Caused by Radiotherapy in Patients With Intracranial Tumor
Authors: Chao Pei-Ju , Chang Liyun , Kang Chen-Lin , Lin Chin-Hsueh , Shieh Chin-Shiuh , Wu Jia-Ming , Tseng Chin-Dar , Tsai I-Hsing , Hsu Hsuan-Chih , Huang Yu-Jie , Lee Tsair-Fwu
Published: December 2020

Using deep learning models to analyze patients with intracranial tumors, to study the image segmentation and standard results by clinical depiction complications of cerebral edema after receiving radiotherapy. In this study, patients with intracranial tumors receiving computer knife (CyberKnife M6) stereotactic radiosurgery were followed using the treatment planning system (MultiPlan 5.1.3) to obtain before-treatment and four-month follow-up images of patients. Images were preprocessed using images of cerebral edema complications (22 images, T2-flair) after treatment. The image interpolation was increased to 109 images and depicted as a standard image (ground truth segmentation, GTS) by the clinician. The TensorFlow platform was used as the core architecture for training neural networks. Supervised learning was used to build labels for the cerebral edema dataset by using Labelme, Mask region-based convolutional neural networks (R-CNN), and region growing algorithms. The three evaluation coefficients DICE, Jaccard (intersection over union, IoU), and volumetric overlap error (VOE) were used to analyze and calculate the algorithms in the image collection for cerebral edema image segmentation and the standard as described by the oncologists. When DICE and IoU indices were 1, and the VOE index was 0, the results were similar to those described by the clinician. The study found using the Mask R-CNN model in the segmentation of cerebral edema, the DICE index was 0.88, the IoU index was 0.79, and the VOE index was 2.0. The DICE, IoU, and VOE indices using region growing were 0.77, 0.64, and 3.2, respectively. Using the evaluated index, the Mask R-CNN model had the best segmentation effect, the volume of cerebral edema that most closely described the patient by the clinician. This study analyzes the situation of patients with intracranial tumors following radiotherapy after four months of follow-up to check for radiation-induced cerebral edema, using two methods to segment medical images. Among them, the instance segmentation method based on the deep learning Mask R-CNN has obtained the best results compared to the standard of the clinician in terms of describing the complications of cerebral edema. This method can be implemented in the clinical workflow in the future to achieve good complication segmentation and provide clinical evaluation and guidance suggestions.
Preliminary Estimates of Change in Physical Function After Targeted Kyphosis Exercise Intervention in Older Adults With Low Function: A Secondary Analysis of The SCOR Trial
Authors: Gladin Amy , Katzman Wendy , Fukuoka Yoshimi , Parimi Neeta , Wong Shirley , Lane Nancy
Published: December 2020

Background: Hyperkyphosis is common in older adults and associated with low physical function and reduced health related quality of life (HrQol). Improved kyphosis has been previously established in kyphosis-targeted interventions in randomized controlled trials in older adults with hyperkyphosis however evidence for improved physical function is conflicting. Few studies have investigated change in physical function after a targeted kyphosis intervention in older adults with low physical function. The primary aim in this descriptive study was to explore change in physical function after a progressive high intensity 3-month targeted kyphosis exercise and posture training intervention in older adults with low physical function and hyperkyphosis. Secondary aims were to explore change in HrQol, spinal strength and spinal curvature, and adherence and safety of the intervention in older adults with low physical function and hyperkyphosis.Methods: In this secondary analysis of the Specialized Center of Research (SCOR) Kyphosis randomized trial, 101 community dwelling older men and women with hyperkyphosis who completed the intervention were divided into a low function group (LFG) and high function group (HFG). Baseline characteristics were compared between LFG and HFG. Physical function, HrQol, spinal strength and spinal curvature (kyphosis and lordosis) pre/post intervention change scores were explored within and between groups. Adherence and adverse events were examined in the LFG and HFG. Results:Twenty-six (26%) older adults were LFG, mean SPPB 9.62 (SD=1.17) points. At baseline, the LFG was older than HFG (p=0.005), endorsed more pain, (p=0.060), had worse physical function and HrQol (p≤0.001), and comparable kyphosis (p=0.640). SPPB increased 0.62 (95% CI: -0.20 to 1.44) points in the LFG and decreased 0.04 (95%CI: -0.28 to 0.19) points in the HFG, p=0.020. Gait speed improved 0.04 (95%CI: -0.02 to 0.10) m/s in the LFG. Kyphosis improved equally in both groups. Adherence was similar and there were no adverse events in the LFG or HFG. Conclusions:Older adults with low physical function and hyperkyphosis may improve physical function after a kyphosis targeted intervention. Older adults with low physical function may safely participate in targeted high-intensity kyphosis exercise and posture training. This observation needs to be confirmed in larger adequately powered studies. Clinicaltrials.gov dentifier: NCT01766674
Unified theory for light-induced halide segregation in mixed halide perovskites
Authors: Chen Zehua , Brocks Geert , Tao Shuxia , Bobbert Peter
Published: December 2020

Mixed halide perovskites that are thermodynamically stable in the dark demix under illumination. This is problematic for their application in solar cells. We present a unified thermodynamic theory for this light-induced halide segregation that is based on a free energy lowering of photocarriers funnelling to a nucleated phase with different halide composition and lower band gap than the parent phase. We apply the theory to a sequence of mixed iodine-bromine perovskites. The spinodals separating metastable and unstable regions in the composition-temperature phase diagrams only slightly change under illumination, while light-induced binodals separating stable and metastable regions appear signalling the nucleation of a low-band gap iodine-rich phase. We find that the threshold photocarrier density for halide segregation is governed by the band gap difference of the parent and iodine-rich phase. Partial replacement of organic cations by cesium reduces this difference and therefore has a stabilizing effect.
Prevalence of Haemarthrosis and Clinical Impact on The Musculoskeletal System in People With Haemophilia in The United Kingdom; Evaluation of UK National Haemophilia Database and Haemtrack Patient Reported Data.
Authors: Wilkins Richard , Stephensen David , Siddle Heidi , Scott Martin , Xiang Hua , Horn Elizabeth , Palmer Ben , Chapman Graham , Richards Michael , Walwyn Rebecca , Redmond Anthony
Published: December 2020

Introduction; Severe haemophilia is a rare x-linked recessive genetic disorder characterised by bleeding into soft tissue and joints. Haemarthrosis is the most common bleeding manifestation in haemophilia, leading to haemarthropathy. The ankle joint has been reported as the most common site of bleeding, but it is unclear whether the ankle is most affected in terms of joint health status. Aims; To determine the prevalence of joint bleeding and musculoskeletal health status at an individual joint level of children and adults with severe haemophilia A and B without a current inhibitor.Methods; Application was made to the National Haemophilia Database (NHD) with a request for the following; Haemtrack patient reported treatment record and Haemophilia Joint Health Scores (HJHS) in children (<18y) and adults (≥18y) with severe haemophilia A (HA) and B (HB) (FVIII/FIX, <0.01 iu/ml) without a current inhibitor. Data were collated and reported for 1st January to 31st December 2018.Results; 2238 cases were identified, of which 273 were Haemtrack compliant with contemporaneous HJHS. The median (IQR) age of children was 10 (6-13) and adults 40 (29-50) years. Haemarthrosis prevalence in HA/HB children was 33% and 47%, respectively and 60% and 42%, respectively, in adults. The most common haemarthrosis site in children was the knee in HA and ankle in HB. In adults, the incidence of haemarthrosis at the ankles and elbows was equal. Median (IQR) total HJHS in HA/HB children were 0 (0;0). In adults with HA/HB, HJHS were 18 (6; 31) and 11 (5; 24), respectively. In adults with HA/HB, mean (SD) ankle HJHS of 3.8 (4.1) and median 4.0 (0.0; 8.0) were higher than the knee (mean 2.9 (4.1) and median 1.0 (0.0; 5.0) and elbow (mean 3.3 (4.1) and median 1.0 (0.0; 7.0) joints.Conclusion; During 2018, NHD prevalence data of haemarthrosis indicate only two-thirds of children and one-third of adults from a UK cohort compliant with prophylaxis were bleed free. HJHS of zero in children suggests joint health status is either unaffected during childhood or undetected by HJHS. In adults, higher HJHS are reported for the ankles indicating worse joint health.
Characteristics of Landscape Change Patterns at Three Distinct Stages of the Construction and Operation of the Three Gorges Reservoir From 1986 to 2017
Authors: Li Ruikang , Li Yangbing , Li Bo
Published: December 2020

Analyses of landscape change patterns that are based on elevation and slope can not only provide reasonable interpretations of landscape patterns but can also help to reveal evolutionary laws. As a complex geographical unit, the ecosystem environment in the middle reach of the Yangtze River has experienced great changes due to the construction of the Three Gorges Reservoir (TGR) and its associated human activities. Here, based mainly on a digital elevation model (DEM) and remotely sensed images from 1986, 2000, 2010, and 2017 and by using GIS technology, buffer analysis, landscape element change and landscape pattern indices, the spatial and temporal evolution characteristics of different elevations, slopes, and buffer landscape types were analyzed in a typical watershed, as well as an evolutionary model of the landscape pattern. The results indicated that (1) the landscape elements along the land classification and buffer zone that were influenced by the TGR construction have undergone a phased change, with the period 2000-2010 being the most dramatic period of landscape evolution during the impoundment period; (2) landscape type shifts from human-dominated farmland to nature-driven forestland and shrub-land as elevations, slopes and buffer distances increased. The landscape has shifted from diversity to relative homogeneity. (3) land types and buffer zones have exhibited a significant effect on the landscape pattern index, which is reflected in the differences in landscape type indices for spatial extension and temporal characteristics. The results of this study illustrate the pronounced effect of the TGR on landscape patterns, and these findings will elucidate the scientific basis and provide a reference for sustainable land resource management in the study region.
Effectiveness of Integrated Nutrition Interventions on Childhood Stunting: A Quasi-Experimental Evaluation Design
Authors: Elisaria Ester , Mrema Jackline , Bogale Tariki , Segafredo Giulia , Festo Charles
Published: December 2020

Background: Although malnutrition particularly stunting is recognized as multi-causal, there has been limited integrated nutrition interventions to reduce its burden in children under-fives and those existing are not well evaluated. This study tested the effectiveness of provision of health and nutrition education and promotion of home gardening in child stunting.Methods: A quasi-experimental evaluation design with repeated cross-sectional surveys was used to assess changes in behaviors (uptake of Antenatal Care services and child feeding practices) and stunting among children under-five years. Household surveys were done at the baseline, and end-line in both controls (Tabora, Lindi and coast regions) and interventions (Simiyu and Ruvuma regions) sites. The sample size was calculated to detect a 10% percent absolute baseline-to-end-line change in stunting as a key indicator. A two-stage stratified sampling process was employed to select study participants. A total of 840 and 1,680 households was need at each round of data collection in the intervention and control districts respectively. Mothers delivered in the past 24 months preceding the survey and all children under-five years residing in selected households were eligible. The difference in difference (DID) analysis was used to estimate effect of the interventions. All ethical clearances were obtained from relevant authorities prior to data collection.Results: A total of 3,467 and 4,145 children under five years were recruited at baseline and endline respectively. The proportional of stunted children decreases from 35.9% to 34.2% in intervention and from 29.3% to 26.8 % in the control sites. Overall, no statistically significant stunting reduction was observed between intervention and control sites. However, a significant effect were observed in intermediate outcomes; Uptake of iron folic acid (DID: 5.2%, (95% CI: 1.7-8.7), p=0.003), health facility delivery (DID: 6.5%, (95% CI: 1.8-11.2), p=0.006), pre-lacteal feeding (DID: -5.9%, (95%CI: -9.2, -2.5), p=0.001), breast feeding within one hour after birth (DID: 7.8 %, (95%CI: 2.2-13.4), p=0.006) and exclusive breast feeding in children under six months (DID:20.3%, (95% CI: 10.5-30.1), p=0.001).Conclusion: The three years program did not result in significant evidence of stunting reduction, but the observed effect on health and nutrition behavioural indicators were substantial. These are intermediate indicators that are in the causal pathways to improved child nutritional outcomes in the long run. Implementation of these integrated packages over a longer duration is needed to witness significant reduction the prevalence of stunting.