bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SARS-CoV-2 prevalence in an asymptomatic cancer cohort - results and consequences for clinical routine
Authors: Marschner Sebastian , Corradini Stefanie , Rauch Josefine , Zacharias Richard , Sujic Ana , Mayerle Julia , Petru Raluca , Grabein Béatrice , Keppler Oliver T. , Boelke Edwin , Belka Claus , Niyazi Maximilian
Published: May 2020

Background
Starting in December 2019, the current pandemic caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) confronts the world with an unprecedented challenge. With no vaccine or drug being currently available to control the pandemic spread, prevention and PCR (Polymerase chain reaction) testing becomes a crucial pillar of medical systems. Aim of the present study was to report on the first results of the measures taken in a large German Department of Radiation Oncology, including PCR testing of asymptomatic cancer patients.
Methods
Pandemic-adapted hygiene regulations and prevention measures for patients and staff were implemented. A visiting ban on both wards was implemented from the beginning and medical staff and patients were required to wear face masks at all times. The waiting rooms were rearranged to ensure distance between patients of at least 1.5 meters. Clinical follow up was mainly done by telephone and all patients had to complete a questionnaire regarding symptoms and contacts with COVID-19 patients before entering our department. Educational documents were created for patients to raise awareness of symptoms and avoidance strategies for interactions with other people. Indications for therapy and fractionation schemes were adapted when possible. In a subsequent step, all new asymptomatic patients were tested via nasopharyngeal swab at our screening station shortly before their simulation CT.
Results
All these measures and implementations have been well accepted. Regarding the PCR testing, only 1 out of 139 asymptomatic patients of our cohort so far tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, reflecting a prevalence of 0.72% in this cancer patient population. Up to this point no staff members was tested positive. The start of the treatment for the PCR-positive patient was deferred for two weeks.
Conclusion
Due to the pandemic-adapted implementations, our department seems well prepared during this crisis. The initial screening helps to identify asymptomatic COVID-19 patients in order to protect other patients and our staff from infection and the observed PCR prevalence is in line with comparable studies. A regular PCR testing (e.g. twice a week) of all patients and staff would in principle be desirable but is limited due to testing capacities at present.
A Parallel, 2-DOF Exoskeleton for the Human Shoulder: Device Characterization and Preliminary Results on Healthy Subjects
Authors: Natividad Rainier , Miller-Jackson Tiana , Chen-Hua Raye Yeow
Published: May 2020

BackgroundHumans are highly reliant on the efficient function of their upper limb. Neuromuscular disorders that impair the function of the shoulder consequently reduce quality of life. Robotic rehabilitation serves as an attractive treatment choice due to its promising results and its ability to alleviate the demands on therapists and clinicians. Nevertheless, current robotic architectures are not optimized for the human shoulder but are more apt for industrial environments. Pneumatically powered soft robotic actuators present an attractive method to create shoulder exoskeletons due to their compliance and relatively low mass. However, current actuators lack the necessary functions to provide support to the entire shoulder’s range of motion.MethodsA modular, fabric pneumatic actuator was constructed. The actuator design allows it to perform three-dimensional (3-D) bends with minimal resistance. Four actuators were combined to create a soft shoulder exoskeleton. Each actuator drives one direction of motion: elevation and depression, rotation of the plane of elevation. The torque output of the actuator was measured using a customized two-axis torque measurement system. Exoskeleton functionality was tested through surface electromyography of relevant shoulder muscles. 10 healthy subjects were recruited and performed arm motions under the assistance of the exoskeleton.ResultsThe actuator can reach full bending (>360°) with low pressures (~10kPA). Its torque output is highly dependent on its geometry. Moreover, torque output is reduced as the bending angles increase. The actuators installed on the exoskeleton output 11.15N-m of torque at the neutral position, and 4.44 N-m at 90° shoulder elevation. The test on healthy subjects showed that use of the exoskeleton reduces muscle activation by up to 65% when performing shoulder elevation, and up to 34% when rotating the plane of elevation. Use of the exoskeleton also resulted in a change in arm trajectory when performing elevation and depression movements.ConclusionsThe reduction in muscle activation highlights the ability of a soft-robotic exoskeleton in supporting arm movements. Moreover, the presented exoskeleton design successfully demonstrated its ability to generate two degree-of-freedom support for the human shoulder.
Association of Clinical Characteristics with the Proportion of the HDL-Cholesterol Subclasses HDL-2b and HDL-3 Among Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis
Authors: Chen Jin-Bor , Lee Wen-Chin , Moi Sin-Hua , Yang Cheng-Hong
Published: May 2020

Background: Altered high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) composition in patients with chronic kidney disease is common. However, reports on the distribution of HDL-C subclasses in patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD) are limited. Objective: We aimed to compare the two main HDL-C subclasses, HDL-2b and HDL-3, in two cohorts of HD patients and healthy individuals and examine their associations with clinical characteristics. Methods: A total of 164 prevalent HD patients and 71 healthy individuals in one hospital-facilitated outpatient clinic were enrolled from May 2019 to July 2019. The HDL-2b and HDL-3 proportions were measured and statistical analysis was performed. Results: The mean ages of HD patients and healthy individuals were 63 and 49.9 years, respectively. HD patients showed lower HDL-2b and HDL-3 proportions compared with those of healthy individuals (23.6% vs. 31.2%, P < 0.001; 31.7% vs. 33.6%, P = 0.137, respectively). The HDL-2b proportion was significantly higher with a high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels of <3 mg/L compared with hs-CRP ≥3mg/L in the HD cohort (P = 0.005). HDL-3 proportion was lower with a hs-CRP level of <3 mg/L compared with hs-CRP ≥3mg/L in the HD cohort (P = 0.022). Sex and diabetes did not influence the HDL-2b and HDL-3 proportions in the HD cohort.Conclusions: HD patients had lower HDL-2b and HDL-3 proportions than those of healthy individuals. The distribution of the HDL-2b and HDL-3 subclasses in HD patients is influenced by proinflammatory status, not by sex and diabetic status.
Computed Tomography and Clinical Features Differentiating Coronavirus Disease 2019 from Seasonal Influenza Pneumonia
Authors: Zhao Shuang , Huang Zixing , Zeng Hanjiang , Chen Zhixia , Luo Fengming , Zhang Chongwei , Song Bin
Published: May 2020

Objectives: To investigate computed tomography (CT) and clinical features could help differentiate coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) from seasonal influenza pneumonia.Methods: We retrospectively evaluated the clinical features and chest CT findings of Chinese patients with COVID-19 and seasonal influenza pneumonia treated during the same period. Results: The 24 patients with COVID-19 (mean age, 41 years; 13 men) and 79 patients with seasonal influenza pneumonia (mean age, 41 years; 50 men) differed significantly in mean temperature, respiratory rate, and systolic blood pressure; in central-peripheral, superior-inferior, and anterior-posterior distribution but not lateral distribution of pulmonary lesions; and patchy ground-glass opacity (GGO), GGO nodules, vascular enlargement in GGO, air bronchogram, bronchiolectasis in GGO or consolidation, interlobular septal thickening, and crazy-paving pattern. Separate regression models were developed with clinical features, CT features (including anatomical distributions), and a combined model informed by the first two. The combined model had the best diagnostic performance for identifying COVID-19: a cut-off value of 0.38 was 74% sensitive and 100% specific and had an area under the receiver operating characteristics curve of 0.94. This model was based on sputum production, vascular enlargement in GGO, and central-peripheral distribution (random vs subpleural). Conclusions: The combination of sputum production, vascular enlargement in GGO, and central-peripheral distribution should be extremely helpful in the differential diagnosis of COVID-19.
In silico virtual screening-based study of nutraceuticals predicts the therapeutic potentials of folic acid and its derivatives against COVID-19
Authors: Kumar Vipul , Jena Manoj
Published: May 2020

The recent outbreak of the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) in the Wuhan province of China has taken millions of lives worldwide. In this pandemic situation and absence of known drugs and vaccines against novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19), there is an urgent need for the repurposing of the existing drugs against it. So, here we have examined a safe and cheap alternative against this virus by screening hundreds of nutraceuticals compounds against known therapeutic targets of SARS-COV-2 by molecular docking .The virtual screening results were then analyzed for binding energy and interactive residues in the best binding pose. All these analyses of this study strongly predicted the potential of Folic acid and its derivates like Tetrahydrofolic acid and 5-methyl tetrahydrofolic acid against SARS-COV-2. The strong and stable binding affinity of this water-soluble vitamin and its derivatives against the SARS-COV-2, indicating that they could be valuable drugs against the management of this COVID-19 pandemic. This study could serve as the starting point for further investigation of these molecules through in-vitro and in-vivo assays.
Influence of Diverse Cropping Sequences on Durum Wheat Yield and Protein in the Semiarid Northern Great Plains
Authors: Gan Y. T. , Miller P. R. , McConkey B. G. , Zentner R. P. , Stevenson F. C. , McDonald C. L.
Published: May 2020

Crops grown in previous years impact the amounts of residual soil water and nutrients available for subsequent plant growth. Appropriate sequences allow efficient use of the available soil resources by the crop to increase yields at a system's level. This study was conducted to determine whether the grain yield and grain crude protein concentration (GCPC) of durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L.) were related to crops grown in the previous 2 yr. Durum was grown following pulses [chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.), lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.), and dry pea (Pisum sativum L.)], oilseed [mustard (Brassica juncea L.) or canola (B. napus L.)], and spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in southwest Saskatchewan from 1996 to 2000. Durum increased grain yields by 7% and GCPC by 11% when grown after pulse crops rather than after spring wheat. Durum after oilseeds increased grain yield by 5% and GCPC by 6%. Pulse and oilseed crops grown for the previous 2 yr increased durum grain yield 15% and GCPC 18% compared with continuous wheat systems. Fall residual soil NO3–N and available soil water accounted for 3 to 28% of the increased durum yield in two of five site‐years, whereas those two factors accounted for 12 to 24% of the increased GCPC in three of five site‐years. Durum grain yield was negatively related to GCPC. The relationship was stronger when durum was preceded by oilseeds compared with pulses. Broadleaf crops in no‐till cropping systems provide significant rotational benefits to durum wheat in the semiarid northern Great Plains.
Crop Nitrogen Demand and Grain Protein Concentration of Spring and Winter Wheat
Authors: Fowler D. B.
Published: May 2020

Available soil N and a cultivar's genetic potential are primary factors determining grain protein concentration (GPC). This study focused on important genotypic and environmental factors that determine GPC and yield potential in common wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and investigated the use of GPC as a practical indicator of crop N deficiencies for a wide range of cultivars grown in 16 N fertilizer trials in western Canada. Large GPC responses to added N were accompanied by large increases in grain yield, and similar GPC–grain yield relationships were found at maximum grain yield and 90 and 80% of maximum grain yield. Both genotype and environment influenced the upper limit of yield when N was not limiting. The relationship between GPC and grain yield depended on the part of the N fertilizer response curve sampled, and there was a strong negative correlation between cultivar GPC and maximum potential grain yield. The latter observation indicates that the production of high‐yielding cultivars with high GPC is more complicated than simply stacking yield genes in a high‐GPC genetic background or vice versa. Large differences amongst cultivars also suggested that the critical GPC–grain yield responses must be known for each cultivar before GPC can be used as a practical postharvest indicator of N sufficiency. Growing season weather had a large influence on GPC–grain yield relationships, and GPC at the point of maximum grain yield increased as the potential grain yield of a cultivar was reduced by environmental limitations. These observations indicate that GPC may be a useful postharvest indicator of N deficiencies for crops that are under N stress, but caution must be used when employing GPC to develop management systems that optimize N fertilizer use.
Evaluation of Grain Yield and Its Components in Durum Wheat under Mediterranean Conditions
Authors: del Moral L. F. García , Rharrabti Y. , Villegas D. , Royo C.
Published: May 2020

Grain yield of durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L. var. durum) under Mediterranean conditions is frequently limited by both high temperature and drought during grain growth. Path coefficient analyses, based on an ontogenetic diagram, were conducted to study grain yield formation under different temperature and moisture regimes across Spain. Six ICARDA–CIMMYT inbred lines and four Spanish commercial cultivars were grown during 1998 and 1999 at two temperature regimes (cool and warm) and under both rainfed and irrigated conditions. Path coefficient analysis revealed that grain yield under cooler conditions was mostly determined by kernel weight, whereas the number of spikes per square meter predominantly influenced grain production in the warmer environments. The number of kernels per spike had a significant contribution to grain yield, especially under drought stress conditions. These associations do not clearly appear in the simple correlation analysis. Compensatory effects among yield components were almost absent in the cooler environments, probably due to the relative availability of water and N during the critical phases of plant development. Contrarily, under warmer conditions, negative effects of the number of spikes per square meter were registered on both the number of kernels per spike and kernel weight. Path analysis appears to be a useful tool for understanding grain yield formation and provides valuable additional information for improving grain yield via selection for its yield components.
Maize Yield as Affected by Water Availability, Soil Depth, and Crop Management
Authors: Calviño P. A. , Andrade F. H. , Sadras V. O.
Published: May 2020

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of rainfall, soil depth, and crop management practices on the yield of dryland maize (Zea mays L.) crops of the Argentine Pampas. We were concerned with the relevance of known physiological mechanisms in commercial crops and with developing a framework to quantify the impact of improved management practices on crop yield. Our approach included three steps. First, baseline functions were developed to quantify the relationship between yield and water availability (W) during the critical period for kernel set. Second, baseline functions were tested using an independent data set. Third, using the baseline functions as benchmarks, the effects on yield of soil depth and crop management practices were evaluated. Yield varied between 4.2 and 10 t ha−1, and most of this variation (>84%) was accounted for by W during the period bracketing flowering. Shallow soils presented lower yield than deep soils at a given rainfall. Using yield vs. W functions to account for the effect of variation in W, we quantified the impact of crop management on productivity. Technology‐related yield increases were (a) 2.3 t ha−1 from the late 1980s to the mid‐1990s, mainly explained by P fertilization, better and earlier weed control, and improved hybrids; (b) 0.9 t ha−1 from the mid‐1990s to 1996–1998, related to no‐till and higher plant density; and (c) 0.8 t ha−1 from 1996–1998 to 1999–2000, mainly explained by enhanced rates of N fertilization.
Forage Pearl Millet and Marigold as Rotation Crops for Biological Control of Root‐Lesion Nematodes in Potato
Authors: Ball‐Coelho B. , Bruin A. J. , Roy R. C. , Riga E.
Published: May 2020

Risk of crop damage by root‐lesion nematode [Pratylenchus penetrans Cobb] (RLN) can be minimized through rotation with suppressive crops or fumigation. Forage pearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum L. ‘Canadian Forage Pearl Millet Hybrid 101’ (CFPM 101)] was ranked against a known suppressive host [marigold (Tagetes erecta L. ‘CrackerJack’)], a known supportive host [rye (Secale cereale L. ‘Danko’)], grain pearl millet [‘Canadian Grain Pearl Millet Hybrid 1’ (CGPMH‐1)], and forage sorghum [Sorghum bicolor L. ‘Canadian Forage Sorghum Hybrid 17’ (CFSH‐17)] during rotation‐susceptible crop cycles with potato (Solanum tuberosum L. ‘Russet Norkotah’). In the two experiments (A and B), fewer soil RLN were found in CFPM 101 and marigold than in rye plots in both the rotation and potato crop years. Potato roots contained fewer RLN after marigold (445 and 193 g root−1 for Exp. A and B, respectively) than after rye (4063 and 4358 g root−1 for Exp. A and B, respectively), even postfumigation after rye (1223 and 972 g root−1 for Exp. A and B, respectively). Potato root RLN counts were less after CFPM 101 (1571 g root−1) than after rye (nonfumigated) in Exp. A. Potato yield correlated negatively with the soil RLN population. Total (Exp. B) and marketable (Exp. A) potato yields were greater following CFPM 101 or marigold than following the rye (nonfumigated) rotation and were equal to the rye‐fumigated rotation with one exception (greater total yield after marigold than rye‐fumigated in Exp. B.) Based on these two field experiments, we conclude that CFPM 101 controls RLN in the subsequent potato crop.
Estimating Daily Dew Point Temperature for the Northern Great Plains Using Maximum and Minimum Temperature
Authors: Hubbard Kenneth G. , Mahmood Rezaul , Carlson Christy
Published: May 2020

Dew point temperature (Td) is a precise measure of atmospheric moisture. A significant number of models for studying crop–climate interactions and earth processes require daily Td as an input. However, limited availability of Td data is a major barrier for applications of these models. In this paper, we present a daily Td estimation method for the northern Great Plains (NGP). The daily Td estimation method presented here requires daily maximum, minimum, and mean temperature data. Data from six sites in the NGP were used for the study. These sites record hourly Td data from relative humidity. Length of the time series is 14 yr (1986–1999). Four different regression‐based approaches were adopted and applied to all sites. Eventually, the best method was adopted based on its performance. The model evaluation statistics show that the selected model performs satisfactorily for these six sites. For example, root mean square error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE), and d index (ranges between 0 and 1, where 1 indicates no model error) values for North Platte, NE, application are 3.23, 2.55, and 0.97, respectively. The selected method was further applied to five additional locations in the NGP, and again it performed satisfactorily. For example, RMSE, MAE, and d index values for McCook, NE, application are 2.6, 2.0, and 0.98, respectively. From the model evaluation, we conclude that the model performed satisfactorily and will be quite useful in estimating Td.
Peanut Response to Cultivar Selection, Digging Date, and Tillage Intensity
Authors: Jordan David L. , Barnes J. Steve , Bogle Clyde R. , Brandenburg Rick L. , Bailey Jack E. , Johnson P. Dewayne , Culpepper A. Stanley
Published: May 2020

Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) in the United States is generally grown in conventionally tilled systems. However, interest in reduced tillage peanut production has increased. Five experiments were conducted in North Carolina to determine if cultivar selection and digging date affected peanut yield and economic value when peanut was seeded into conventionally tilled seedbeds compared with strip tillage into small‐grain cover crop or stubble from the crop planted the previous summer. In separate experiments, peanut yield and economic value in these tillage systems were compared with peanut strip‐tilled into beds prepared the previous fall (stale seedbeds). Cultivar selection and digging date did not affect pod yield or gross value when comparing tillage systems. Pod yield in conventional and stale seedbed systems was similar in all five experiments where these systems were compared, and yields in these tillage systems exceeded those of strip tillage into crop stubble in three of five experiments. Pod yield was similar among all three tillage systems in the other two experiments. In experiments where only conventional tillage and strip tillage systems were compared, pod yield was similar between the two tillage systems in four experiments, higher in conventional tillage compared with strip tillage in one experiment, and higher for strip tillage compared with conventional tillage in one experiment. In 16 of 17 comparisons, pod yield of peanut planted in conventional tillage systems equaled or exceeded that of peanut planted into stubble from the previous crop.
Effect of Tillage System, Phorate, and Cultivar on Tomato Spotted Wilt of Peanut
Authors: Marois J. J. , Wright D. L.
Published: May 2020

Tomato spotted wilt (TSW) has become a limiting factor to peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) production in the southeast United States over the past 6 yr. Cultivars are now selected based on their resistance to TSW and planted during time periods to reduce the incidence of TSW. Three peanut cultivars with different resistance to TSW were used (‘Georgia Green’, ‘MDR98’ and ‘SunOleic 97R’). Conventional‐ or strip‐tilled plots were established after winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in 2000 and 2001 in Marianna, FL. Stand count, severity of TSW, and yield were recorded. Plots were irrigated as needed. Stand count was 10% less in the strip‐tilled plots in both 2000 and 2001. Stand count was affected by cultivar used, with Georgia Green and SunOleic 97R having 20% higher populations than MDR98. Phorate [O, O‐diethyl,S‐(ethylthio)methyl phosphorodithioate] treatment had 7% less stand count in 2001 but not in 2000. Tomato spotted wilt severity was 50% less in strip‐tilled plots in 2000, but there was no difference in 2001. Cultivar affected severity of TSW every year but not consistently. Application of phorate did not affect TSW. In 2000 (a droughty year), the strip‐tilled plots had greater yield (2510 vs. 1900 kg ha−1) averaged across cultivars. MDR98 had the highest yield across treatments in 2000, but yield was not different among cultivars in 2001. Application of phorate did not affect yield in either year. In the strip‐tilled plots, soil moisture was 30% greater and plant canopy 3 to 5°C cooler during 2000 when plants were visibly drought stressed. Use of phorate had no effect on TSW or yield and its use for TSW control is not recommended. Cultivar selection did influence TSW severity and should be considered as part of a TSW control program. Strip tillage resulted in greater yields than conventional tillage in an abnormally dry year.
Influence of Early‐Season Nitrogen and Weed Management on Irrigated and Nonirrigated Glyphosate‐Resistant and Susceptible Soybean
Authors: Heatherly Larry G. , Spurlock Stan R. , Reddy Krishna N.
Published: May 2020

Field studies were conducted on Sharkey clay soil (very‐fine, smectitic, thermic Chromic Epiaquert) at Stoneville, MS (33°26′ N lat). The objectives were to determine the effect of application of 0 and 35 kg N ha−1 applied early in the growing season to glyphosate‐resistant (GR) and non‐GR soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] cultivars using two weed management systems in irrigated and nonirrigated environments. Weed management systems were (i) pre‐emergent followed by postemergent weed management using nonglyphosate herbicides applied to both GR and non‐GR cultivars (PRE + POST) and (ii) postemergent weed management using glyphosate on GR cultivars and nonglyphosate herbicides on non‐GR cultivars (POST). Applied N had no effect on weed management in or yield from soybean and lowered average net returns by $28 to $50 ha−1. Average seed yields from the highest‐yielding GR cultivar in 1999 and 2000 were 135 and 270 kg ha−1 more than 1999 and 2000 yields from a non‐GR cultivar in the nonirrigated environment (all net returns were negative and yields <1500 kg ha−1). In the irrigated environment, use of a non‐GR cultivar compared with a GR cultivar resulted in a significant 200 and 250 kg ha−1 greater yield and greater profits in 2 of 3 yr. Use of PRE + POST compared with POST‐only was not necessary for achieving greatest yield or net return with either non‐GR or GR cultivars. Use of postemergent glyphosate always resulted in the cheapest weed control ($43 to $81 ha−1), even with the greater cost for seed of GR cultivars included. There was no measured effect of glyphosate compared with nonglyphosate herbicides on GR cultivar yield.
PARCELAMENTO E CESSÃO GRATUITA DE SUPERFÍCIE DO SOLO DOMINICAL PARA FINS DE MORADIA EM ÁREAS DE PROTEÇÃO AMBIENTAL: URBANIZAÇÃO E DESENVOLVIMENTO ECONÔMICO SUSTENTÁVEL
Authors: Godoy Sandro Marcos , Pighinelli Junior Antonio Gilberto
Published: May 2020

Este estudo estuda o parcelamento e cessão gratuita de superfície do solo dominical para fins de moradia como instrumento jurídico de natureza privada de regularização fundiária em APAs colaborando com o Estado, herdeiro de resultado de políticas urbanas equivocadas e imediatistas, nesse sentido. O método utilizado fora a revisão bibliográfica e a análise integrada da legislação pertinente, explorando as perspectivas social, ambiental e econômica. O Ministério do Meio Ambiente afirma que apesar da existência de leis e instrumentos apropriados, o estágio atual de implementação de políticas públicas ambientais e urbanas não atende aos requisitos necessários de sustentabilidade, devendo utilizar todos os instrumentos legais disponíveis à harmonização dos direitos fundamentais a moradia, ao meio ambiente equilibrado e o consequente desenvolvimento econômico. Perseguimos a ideia de que não basta doar ou subsidiar habitações, necessitando contrapartidas da população beneficiada em cumprir seu papel cidadão participando de programas de educação ambiental como cláusula acidental do contrato, exercitando a posse com consciência ambiental no seu uso. Exige-se assim do Estado o desenvolvimento de uma avaliação ambiental estratégica na qual preveja o uso de todas os instrumentos jurídicos aptos a proporcionar um desenvolvimento sustentável urbano, inclusive o contrato específico objeto do texto.
SUPERENDIVIDAMENTO: UM PROBLEMA INDIVIDUAL OU COLETIVO?
Authors: Dionísio de Andrade Mariana , Girão de Castro Pinto Eduardo Régis , Frota Moreira Beatriz
Published: May 2020

O objetivo do presente estudo consiste em responder o seguinte problema de pesquisa: a falta de tutela do superendividamento no ordenamento jurídico brasileiro possui consequências puramente individuais ou com abrangência social? Para responder essa pergunta o estudo parte do pressuposto que o Estado tem o dever de velar pela vida digna dos cidadãos a ele subordinados. Para isso faz-se necessário entender o conceito de superendividamento e suas consequências práticas, assim como é necessário apresentar argumentos voltados a aprovação do PL 283/2012, que traz uma maior proteção ao endividado e uma vez implantada essas novas regras é possível atingir um meio de combater e prevenir o fenômeno do superendividamento na sociedade. O método adequado para a abordagem do tema será a reunião da abordagem qualitativa, por meio de revisão de literatura e abordagem quantitativa, por meio de bases de dados secundários, coletados principalmente do Conselho Nacional de Justiça. Conclui-se que a falta de tutela do superendividamento estimula o aumento do problema a cada ano, o que acarreta consequências não só aos indivíduos endividados, mas à sociedade como um todo.
O CONTROLE JUDICIAL DA PRODUÇÃO DA PROVA À LUZ DO PRINCÍPIO DA IMPARCIALIDADE
Authors: Ribeiro Adriano Da Silva , Miranda Jessica Sério , Gonçalves Regiane Priscilla Monteiro
Published: May 2020

O presente artigo pretende analisar o instituto da prova no processo civil, aprofundando o estudo sobre a atuação do magistrado na sua determinação e produção. Passando por temas como imparcialidade, função do juiz e análise da prova no novo modelo processual brasileiro, por fim teremos a análise da existência de controle na produção de prova de ofício pelo Tribunal de Justiça de Minas Gerais.
DOS MODOS DE PRODUÇÃO DA MANUFATURA À UBERIZAÇÃO DOS PROCESSOS DE TRABALHO
Authors: Sell Cleiton Lixieski
Published: May 2020

A partir de um olhar sobre os avanços que a tecnologia trouxe no âmbito laboral e suas relações no meio ambiente, este estudo tem o objetivo de abordar a evolução dos processos de trabalho a partir da concepção de uberização no direito do trabalho. Com fundamento na teoria de base do materialismo histórico desenvolvido por Karl Marx, ficou comprovado que a exploração da força de trabalho do homem se tornou mais presente do que nunca, em que os avanços do sistema capitalista, por intermédio da uberização dos processos de trabalho, levam os trabalhadores à utilização essencialmente de meios informáticos nas relações laborais. O método utilizado para o trabalho se consistiu no hipotético dedutivo. Restou comprovado que os processos de trabalho se tornaram uberizados, em que as novas formas de trabalho são desenvolvidas em grande parte em plataformas digitais e por determinado tempo. Do modo como o uso dos instrumentos tecnológicos se tornou imprescindível para grande parte dos processos de trabalho, diferentemente, os reflexos recaem sobre a saúde dos trabalhadores pela concorrência e pela exigência por melhores resultados em termos de produção. Do mesmo modo, observou-se que os processos de trabalho se tornaram mais autônomos e autogestionados, modificando a estrutura tradicional de vínculo empregatício e de subordinação.
BLOQUEIO INTERMITENTE DA BR-174 PELO POVO INDÍGENA WAIMIRI-ATROARI: NECESSIDADE DE CONSULTA PRÉVIA EM CASO DE INTERVENÇÃO ESTATAL SOBRE O SEU TERRITÓRIO
Authors: E Silva Daniel Reis , Penha do Amaral Alex , Pontes Filho Raimundo Pereira
Published: May 2020

Nos últimos quarenta anos, o povo indígena Waimiri-Atroari tem bloqueado diariamente, durante a noite, o acesso ao trecho da estrada BR-174 que corta o seu território, entre os Estados do Amazonas e Roraima, enquanto o Poder Público, reforçado pelo discurso em voga no governo federal, tenta encontrar meios de abolir a prática. Por meio de um estudo dedutivo, a presente pesquisa partirá de uma contextualização histórica dos impactos da construção da estrada sobre o povo indígena, pautada numa política colonialista de extermínio, para então descrever a problemática como persiste no presente. Posteriormente, será abordado o plexo de direitos constitucionais garantidos aos povos indígenas, tais como a posse permanente e o usufruto exclusivo para o desenvolvimento próprio e proteção das terras tradicionalmente ocupadas. Em seguida, ressaltar-se-á a possibilidade de intervenção do Estado sobre o território indígena, como medida de desenvolvimento econômico, desde que observado o conjunto de direitos fundamentais e assegurada a consulta prévia, livre e informada do povo indígena a ser afetado, objeto do tópico final. Por fim, o trabalho denota que tratamentos inferiorizantes e estigmatizantes dos povos indígenas pelo Poder Público não mais são tolerados pelo ordenamento vigente, que abandonou qualquer viés colonialista. A intervenção estatal que venha a limitar o direito territorial indígena deve observar a consulta prévia e garantir efetivo diálogo intercultural, para que o povo afetado assuma posição de protagonismo no processo decisório quanto à questão do bloqueio da estrada.
SOSYAL YARDIM İSTİHDAM İLİŞKİSİNİN BELİRLENMESİ: REFAH REJİMLERİ İÇİN BİR PANEL VERİ ANALİZİ
Authors: YEŞİLKAYA Fatma , ÖZAYDIN Mehmet Merve
Published: May 2020

Bu çalışmanın temel amacı, refah rejimlerinde kamu eliyle yürütülen sosyal yardımların istihdama etkisinin panel veri analizi yöntemi kullanılarak belirlenmesidir. Sosyal yardımlar literatürde istihdama katılımın önüne geçen bir olgu olarak ele alınmaktadır. Nitekim 2000’li yıllarla beraber sosyal yardım uygulamalarının istihdam politikalarıyla desteklenmesi gerektiği literatürde vurgulanmaktadır. Bu sebeple kamu eliyle yürütülen sosyal yardımların istihdamı ne derece etkilediğinin araştırılması gerektiği düşünülmektedir. Bu noktadan hareketle yapılan çalışmada, Esping-Andersen’in sınıflandırmasından hareket edilerek belirlenmiş üç refah rejiminde 2005-2016 yılları için sosyal yardımlarla istihdam arasındaki ilişki incelenmiştir. Analiz sonucunda sosyal yardımlarda yaşanan artışın üç refah rejiminde de istihdamda azalışa sebep olduğu sonucuna ulaşılmıştır.
A Prospective Study to Evaluate the Predictivity of Risk Malignancy Index in Adnexal Masses
Authors: Elmastas Narin Yar , Obut Mehmet , Tunc Senem Yaman
Published: May 2020

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficiency of CA-125, menopausal status, ultrasound features and risk malignancy index in predicting malignancy in patients with an adnexal mass.STUDY DESIGN: This study was designed prospectively and 212 patients who applied to our hospital and met the study criteria were included. Preoperatively RMI value was calculated for the differentiation of benign from malignant patients. The diagnosis was confirmed by histopathology. Kolmogorov-Smirnov, Yates correction, Pearson Chi-Square and Student's t-test were used for statistical analysis. ROC curves were drawn as diagnostic tests and the test results were presented.RESULTS: Of 212 patients included in our study, 174 (82%) patients’ were reported as benign, 6 (3%) borderline and 32 (15%) malignant. In predicting malignancy, the malignity risk index with 200 cutoff value the sensitivity and specivity was 87% and 80% respectively. However, when the cutoff value of malignity risk index taken as 112, the sensitivity was unchanged but the specificity increased to 90%. Similarly, when CA-125's cutoff value was taken as 46U/mL, the sensitivity did not change but the specificity increased from 68% to 72%.CONCLUSION: Malignancy risk index is a method that has high sensitivity and specificity. Preoperative-op RMI calculation can provide accurate predictions for the establishment of an appropriate surgical plan for pelvic masses or referral to tertiary centers.
Convolutional Neural Network-based Virtual Screening
Authors: Shan Wenying , Li Xuanyi , Yao Hequan , Lin Kejiang
Published: May 2020

Virtual screening is an important means for lead compound discovery. The scoring
function is the key to selecting hit compounds. Many scoring functions are currently available;
however, there are no all-purpose scoring functions because different scoring functions
tend to have conflicting results. Recently, neural networks, especially convolutional neural
networks, have constantly been penetrating drug design and most CNN-based virtual screening
methods are superior to traditional docking methods, such as Dock and AutoDock. CNNbased
virtual screening is expected to improve the previous model of overreliance on computational
chemical screening. Utilizing the powerful learning ability of neural networks provides
us with a new method for evaluating compounds. We review the latest progress of
CNN-based virtual screening and propose prospects.
The Advances of the Structure and Function of Indoleamine 2, 3- dioxygenase 1 and Its Inhibitors
Authors: Duan Huai-Chuan , Peng Lian-Xin , Hu Yi-Chen , Luo Qing , Liu Xin-Yu , Sun Xin , Liang Li , Gan Ya , Liu Wei , Wan Hua , Shi Hu-Bing , Zhao Gang , Hu Jian-Ping
Published: May 2020

:

Indoleamine 2, 3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) is the only rate-limiting enzyme outside the liver
that catalyzes the oxidation and cracking of indole rings in the tryptophan along the kynurenine pathway
(KP). The overactivation of IDO1 is closely related to the pathogenesis of various human immune
and neurological diseases. As an important target for the treatment of many human serious diseases,
including malignant tumors, the development of IDO1 inhibitors is of great practical significance. In
this work, the structure and function of IDO1 both are summarized from the aspects of the signal
pathway, catalytic mechanism, structural biology, and so on. Moreover, the current development status
of IDO1 inhibitors is also systematically reviewed, which provides assistance for anti-cancer drug
design based on the structure of receptors.
Global Infodemiology of COVID-19: Analysis of Google Web Searches and Instagram Hashtags (Preprint)
Authors: Rovetta Alessandro , Bhagavathula Akshaya Srikanth
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Although “infodemiological” methods have been used in research on coronavirus disease (COVID-19), an examination of the extent of infodemic moniker (misinformation) use on the internet remains limited.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this paper is to investigate internet search behaviors related to COVID-19 and examine the circulation of infodemic monikers through two platforms—Google and Instagram—during the current global pandemic.

METHODS

We have defined infodemic moniker as a term, query, hashtag, or phrase that generates or feeds fake news, misinterpretations, or discriminatory phenomena. Using Google Trends and Instagram hashtags, we explored internet search activities and behaviors related to the COVID-19 pandemic from February 20, 2020, to May 6, 2020. We investigated the names used to identify the virus, health and risk perception, life during the lockdown, and information related to the adoption of COVID-19 infodemic monikers. We computed the average peak volume with a 95% CI for the monikers.

RESULTS

The top six COVID-19–related terms searched in Google were “coronavirus,” “corona,” “COVID,” “virus,” “corona virus,” and “COVID-19.” Countries with a higher number of COVID-19 cases had a higher number of COVID-19 queries on Google. The monikers “coronavirus ozone,” “coronavirus laboratory,” “coronavirus 5G,” “coronavirus conspiracy,” and “coronavirus bill gates” were widely circulated on the internet. Searches on “tips and cures” for COVID-19 spiked in relation to the US president speculating about a “miracle cure” and suggesting an injection of disinfectant to treat the virus. Around two thirds (n=48,700,000, 66.1%) of Instagram users used the hashtags “COVID-19” and “coronavirus” to disperse virus-related information.

CONCLUSIONS

Globally, there is a growing interest in COVID-19, and numerous infodemic monikers continue to circulate on the internet. Based on our findings, we hope to encourage mass media regulators and health organizers to be vigilant and diminish the use and circulation of these infodemic monikers to decrease the spread of misinformation.
Proteína C reactiva, síndrome metabólico y riesgo cardiovascular en la población costarricense nacida entre 1945 y 1955.
Authors: Aguilar Fernández Eduardo , Carballo Alfaro Ana Maricela
Published: May 2020

Resumen

Introducción: Varios estudios han mencionado que existe relación entre la proteína C reactiva (PCR) y el síndrome metabólico (SM) y que esta proteína es un factor de riesgo de enfermedad cardiovascular. Objetivo: Se estudió la relación entre la PCR y el SM en la población costarricense. Métodos: Se consideraron personas nacidas en Costa Rica entre 1945 y 1955 (n = 2273). La definición del SM fue una adaptación de los criterios establecidos por la American Heart Association and National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. Resultados: La prevalencia del SM aumenta conforme incrementan los niveles de PCR (p < 0,001) y esta prevalencia fue mayor en las mujeres (p < 0,001). La PCR se asoció en forma independiente y positiva con la circunferencia de la cintura y negativa con el colesterol HDL (C-HDL). La asociación más fuerte fue con la circunferencia de la cintura (probabilidad de superioridad (PSup) de 67,8). Después de ajustar por edad, sexo, zona de residencia, tabaquismo y consumo de bebidas alcohólicas, las personas con niveles de PCR ubicados en el cuarto cuartil tienen mayor riesgo de presentar SM en comparación con las que muestran niveles de PCR ubicados en el primer cuartil. Por otro lado, el riesgo cardiovascular fue más alto en personas con altos niveles de PCR. Conclusiones: La PCR está asociada con el SM en las personas costarricenses nacidas entre 1945 y 1955. Otros estudios son necesarios para establecer el papel de la PCR en el desarrollo del SM y eventos cardiovasculares entre la población costarricense.
Construcción de un banco de pruebas de medidores de flujo para el laboratorio de mecánica de fluidos de la Universidad Francisco de Paula Santander Ocaña
Authors: García-León Ricardo Andrés , Flórez-Solano Eder Norberto , Guerrero-Gómez Gustavo
Published: May 2020

En la academia es importante que el estudiante realice un complemento entre la teoría y la práctica para reforzar conocimientos que hagan que la compresión del concepto sea mucho más rápida, para un tema particular,  se tiene la necesidad de que el estudiante mediante la construcción de un laboratorio diferencie los  medidores de los fluidos para presión y caudal.  Es por esto que este  proyecto tuvo  como objetivo principal estudiar el efecto, funcionamiento y las aplicaciones tecnológicas de algunos medidores de flujo, como el tubo Venturi, La Tobera y la placa de Orificio, los cuales su invención data de los años 1.800 después de Cristo. La construcción del sistema de medidores de flujo se construyó en fundición de aluminio, soportado por una estructura metálica hecha en tubería cuadrada, dotado de tubería de Policloruro de Vinilo y tubería de aluminio, accesorios (Codos, uniones, machos, hembras, reducción 2 pulgadas a 1 pulgada) y una válvula que permite la conexión de una bomba centrifuga individual, permitiendo así realizar medición de caudal de un fluido para este caso se trabajara con agua,  por medio de tres elementos de medida diferentes mencionados anteriormente, los datos obtenidos de los medidores se pueden contrarrestar con el dato arrojado por un Rotámetro de escala 4 – 35 Lt/min, para el registro de las presiones se instalaron cinco manómetros con rangos de 0 a 30 psi que a su vez sirven para el análisis de la relación caudal vs presión.
Defining digital addiction: Key features from the literature
Authors: Basel Almourad , McAlaney John , Skinner Tiffany , Pleva Megan , Ali Raian
Published: May 2020

Within recent years there has been increasing societal concern around the compulsive and excessive use of digital and Internet-enabled devices, such as the use of social media or online video gaming, and associated psychological and physical harms. However, problematic use or addictive behaviours are not yet included as diagnosable mental health issues in any major diagnostic system in Western countries and the conceptualisations of the phenomena are still inconsistent. To address this issue, the present study reviewed the current conceptualisations of digital addiction used within the research literature and identified common features of the definition of digital addiction. Definitions of the phenomenon were extracted from 47 studies, and they were analysed using a content analysis approach. The initial process assessed definitions for features of digital addiction within Internet, gaming and smartphone addiction. Two higher-order themes were identified, which focused on the harm caused by the phenomenon and on the user?s behaviours associated with the phenomenon. It was also found that key constructs are not specific to the usage domain, i.e. whether it is related to gaming, Internet or smartphone use. Several core features were found across different conceptualisations of digital addiction within the literature; however, it was also noted that some features are subjective and inconsistently applied. If a decision is to be reached on whether the phenomenon is a mental health disorder, then clearer definitions must be created.
In search of markers useful for evaluation of graft patency - molecular analysis of ‘muscle system process’ for internal thoracic artery and saphenous vein conduits
Authors: Kałużna Sandra , Nawrocki Mariusz J. , Jopek Karol , Hutchings Greg , Perek Bartłomiej , Jemielity Marek , Kempisty Bartosz , Malińska Agnieszka , Mozdziak Paul , Nowicki Michał
Published: May 2020

Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) is the surgical method most commonly used to treat coronary artery disease (CAD). The vessels that are used in CABG are usually the internal thoracic artery (ITA) and the saphenous vein (SV). Transplant patency is one of the most important factors affecting transplant success. In this study, we used an expressive microarray method, approved by RT-qPCR, for transcriptome analysis of arterial and venous grafts. In the search for potential molecular factors, we analyzed gene ontologies of different expression based on the muscular system. Among interesting groups, we distinguished muscle cell proliferation, muscle contraction, muscle system process, regulation of smooth muscle cell proliferation and smooth muscle cell proliferation. The highest increase in gene expression was observed in: ACTN2, RBPMS2, NR4A3, KCNA5, while the smallest decrease in expression was shown by the P2RX1, KCNH2, DES and MYOT genes. Particularly noteworthy are the ACTN2 and NR4A3 genes, which can have a significant impact on vascular patency. ACTN2 is a gene that can affect the formation of atherosclerotic plaques, while NR4A3 occurs in 4 of the 5 ontological groups discussed and can affect the inflammatory process in the blood vessel. To summarize, the presented study provided valuable insight into the molecular aspects characterizing the vessels used in CABG, and in particular identified genes that may be the target for further studies on duct patency.

Running title: CABG grafts’ molecular analysis of ‘muscle system process’
The Performance of Seven Molecular Methods for the Detection of PRRSV
Authors: Milićević Vesna , Kureljušić Branislav , Veljović Ljubiša , Valčić Miroslav , Stević Nataša , Savić Božidar , Radojičić Sonja
Published: May 2020

Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome is a viral disease of swine characterized by reproductive failure of breeding animals and respiratory disorders in all categories. The first PRRS case in Serbia was recorded in 2001 after illegal import of boar semen. PRRS is economically the most important disease due to significant direct and indirect losses. Today, for routine diagnosis of PRRS in infected herds serological methods (ELISA) and molecular methods are used. Although modern diagnostic techniques are very robust, exceptional diversity of the viral strains is often the obstacle for an accurate diagnosis. To estimate the performance of seven different methods for PRRSV genome detection, twenty samples were used. However, none of the methods was able to detect all PRRSV strains. The best sensitivity was obtained by combining two methods. Until today, there is no absolutely accurate test which enables the detection of all circulating strains.