bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Curcumin Encapsulated in Crosslinked Cyclodextrin Nanoparticles Enables Immediate Inhibition of Cell Growth and Efficient Killing of Cancer Cells
Authors: Möller Karin , Macaulay Beth , Bein Thomas
Published: February 2021

The efficiency of anti-cancer drugs is commonly determined by endpoint assays after extended incubation times, often after days. Here we demonstrate that curcumin encapsulated in crosslinked cyclodextrin nanoparticles (CD-NP) acts extremely rapidly on cell metabolism resulting in an immediate and complete inhibition of cell growth and in efficient cancer-cell killing only few hours after incubation. This early onset of anti-cancer action was discovered by live-cell high-throughput fluorescence microscopy using an environmental stage. To date, only very few examples of covalently crosslinked nanoscale CD-based (CD-NP) drug carriers exist. Crosslinking cyclodextrins enables the adsorption of unusually high payloads of hydrophobic curcumin (762 µg CC/mg CD-NP) reflecting a molar ratio of 2.3:1 curcumin to cyclodextrin. We have investigated the effect of CD-NP encapsulated curcumin (CD-CC-NP) in comparison to free, DMSO-derived curcumin nanoparticles (CC-NP) on 4 different cell lines. Very short incubations times as low as 1 h were applied and cell responses after medium change were subsequently followed over two days. We show that cell proliferation is inhibited nearly immediately in all cell lines and that a cell- and concentration dependent cancer-cell killing occurs. Anti-cancer effects were similar with free and encapsulated curcumin, however, encapsulation in CD-NP drastically extends the long-term photostability and anti-cancer activity of curcumin. Curcumin-sensitivity is highest in HeLa cells reaching up to 90% cell death under these conditions. Sensitivity decreased from HeLa to T24 to MDA MB-231 cells. Strikingly, the immortalized non-cancerous cell line MCF-10A was robust against curcumin concentrations that were highly toxic to the other cell lines. Our results underline the potential of curcumin as gentle and yet effective natural anti-cancer agent when delivered solvent-free in stabilizing and biocompatible drug carriers such as CD-NP that enable efficient cellular delivery.
RNA-Centric Approaches to Profile the RNA–Protein Interaction Landscape on Selected RNAs
Authors: Gerber André P.
Published: February 2021

RNA–protein interactions frame post-transcriptional regulatory networks and modulate transcription and epigenetics. While the technological advances in RNA sequencing have significantly expanded the repertoire of RNAs, recently developed biochemical approaches combined with sensitive mass-spectrometry have revealed hundreds of previously unrecognized and potentially novel RNA-binding proteins. Nevertheless, a major challenge remains to understand how the thousands of RNA molecules and their interacting proteins assemble and control the fate of each individual RNA in a cell. Here, I review recent methodological advances to approach this problem through systematic identification of proteins that interact with particular RNAs in living cells. Thereby, a specific focus is given to in vivo approaches that involve crosslinking of RNA–protein interactions through ultraviolet irradiation or treatment of cells with chemicals, followed by capture of the RNA under study with antisense-oligonucleotides and identification of bound proteins with mass-spectrometry. Several recent studies defining interactomes of long non-coding RNAs, viral RNAs, as well as mRNAs are highlighted, and short reference is given to recent in-cell protein labeling techniques. These recent experimental improvements could open the door for broader applications and to study the remodeling of RNA–protein complexes upon different environmental cues and in disease.
An Overview of Guidelines for Supplemental Feeding of Infants in Swedish Maternity Clinics
Authors: Kerstis Birgitta , Richardsson Anna , Stenström Alexandra , Widarsson Margareta
Published: February 2021

This study aims to describe the local guidelines for the supplemental feeding of infants of Swedish women’s clinics with maternity wards. Purposeful sampling was used during a four-week data collection time in 2019. Guidelines from 41 of the 43 Swedish women’s clinics with maternity wards were analysed using qualitative and quantitative content analysis. The information provided, and length of the guidelines varied widely in 38 guidelines. Feeding methods were included in 28 guidelines, but 10 provided no information about feeding methods. The most common feeding methods were cup feeding and feeding probes. Suggestions for supplemental feeding included infant formula (32), breast milk (27) and no suggestions (6). The methods to support breastfeeding were skin-to-skin contact (25), breastfeeding freely (22), a caring plan (18), extra supervision (3), optimising the caring environment (2), supplying a breast pump (1) and breastfeeding observation (1). Twenty-two guidelines included information about how long formula should be given and that the feeding should be phased out gradually. We conclude that a national guideline for the supplemental feeding of infants is needed to ensure equal best practice care for infant safety and the support of parents to increase the breastfeeding rate. More national guidelines are needed in general because it is easier to update only one set of guidelines.
Ocean Circulation Drives the Variability of the Carbon System in the Eastern Tropical Atlantic
Authors: Lefèvre Nathalie , Mejia Carlos , Khvorostyanov Dmitry , Beaumont Laurence , Koffi Urbain
Published: February 2021

The carbon system in the eastern tropical Atlantic remains poorly known. The variability and drivers of the carbon system are assessed using surface dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC), alkalinity (TA) and fugacity of CO2 (fCO2) measured in the 12° N–12° S, 12° W–12° E region from 2005 to 2019. A relationship linking DIC to temperature, salinity and year has been determined, with salinity being the strongest predictor. The seasonal variations of DIC, ranging from 80 to 120 μμmol kg−1, are more important than the year-to-year variability that is less than 50 μμmol kg−1 over the 2010–2019 period. DIC and TA concentrations are lower in the northern part of the basin where surface waters are fresher and warmer. Carbon supply dominates over biological carbon uptake during the productive upwelling period from July to September. The lowest DIC and TA are located in the Congo plume. The influence of the Congo is still observed at the mooring at 6° S, 8° E as shown by large salinity and chlorophyll variations. Nevertheless, this site is a source of CO2 emissions into the atmosphere.
Acute Acalculous Cholecystitis Due to a Primary Epstein Barr Virus Infection in a Pediatric Patient
Authors: Leganés Villanueva Carlos , Goruppi Ilaria , Brun Lozano Nuria , Bianchi Federica , Quinteiro González María , Boronat Guerrero Susana
Published: February 2021

Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) is estimated to infect more than 98% of adults worldwide and is one of the most common human viruses. Acute acalculous cholecystitis (AAC) of the gallbladder is an atypical complication of infectious mononucleosis caused by EBV. Conservative management has been described in the context of AAC caused by EBV. A surgical approach must be considered in the case of acute complications such as perforation or gallbladder gangrene. We present the case of a 10-year-old female patient with AAC due to infectious mononucleosis syndrome caused by primary EBV infection.
Application of Standardized Antimicrobial Administration Ratio as a Motivational Tool within a Multi-Hospital Healthcare System
Authors: Shealy Stephanie , Kohn Joseph , Yongue Emily , Troficanto Casey , Bookstaver P. Brandon , Justo Julie Ann , Winders Hana R. , Dash Sangita , Al-Hasan Majdi N.
Published: February 2021

The standardized antimicrobial administration ratio (SAAR) is a novel antimicrobial stewardship metric that compares actual to expected antimicrobial use (AU). This prospective cohort study examines the utility of SAAR reporting and inter-facility comparisons as a motivational tool to improve overall and broad-spectrum AU within a three-hospital healthcare system. Transparent inter-facility comparisons were deployed during system-wide antimicrobial stewardship meetings beginning in October 2017. Stakeholders were advised to interpret the results to foster competition and incorporate SAAR data into focused antimicrobial stewardship interventions. Student’s t-test was used to compare mean SAARs in the pre- (July 2017 through October 2017) and post-intervention periods (November 2017 through June 2019). The mean pre-intervention SAARs for hospitals A, B, and C were 0.69, 1.09, and 0.60, respectively. Hospital B experienced significant reductions in SAAR for overall AU (from 1.09 to 0.83; p < 0.001), broad-spectrum antimicrobials used for hospital-onset infections (from 1.36 to 0.81; p < 0.001), and agents used for resistant gram-positive infections in the intensive care units (from 1.27 to 0.72; p < 0.001) after the interventions. The alignment of the SAAR across the health-system and sustained reduction in overall and broad-spectrum AU through implementation of inter-facility comparisons demonstrate the utility in the motivational application of this antimicrobial use metric.
Living Systems Escape Solipsism by Inverse Causality to Manage the Probability Distribution of Events
Authors: Nakajima Toshiyuki
Published: February 2021

The external worlds do not objectively exist for living systems because these worlds are unknown from within systems. How can they escape solipsism to survive and reproduce as open systems? Living systems must construct their hypothetical models of external entities in the form of their internal structures to determine how to change states (i.e., sense and act) appropriately to achieve a favorable probability distribution of the events they experience. The model construction involves the generation of symbols referring to external entities. This paper attempts to provide a new view that living systems are an inverse-causality operator. Inverse causality (IC) is an algorithmic process that generates symbols referring to external reality states based on a given data sequence. For applying this logical model involving if–then entailments to living systems involving material interactions, the cognizers-system model was employed to represent the IC process; here, living systems were modeled as a subject of cognition and action. A focal subject system is described as a cognizer composed of sub-cognizers, such as a sensor, a signal transducer, and an effector. Analysis using this model proposes that living systems invented the “measurers” for conducting IC operations through their evolution.
Traditional Logic and Computational Thinking
Authors: Castro-Manzano J.-Martín
Published: February 2021

In this contribution, we try to show that traditional Aristotelian logic can be useful (in a non-trivial way) for computational thinking. To achieve this objective, we argue in favor of two statements: (i) that traditional logic is not classical and (ii) that logic programming emanating from traditional logic is not classical logic programming.
Experimental Investigation on the Sputtering Process for Tantalum Oxynitride Thin Films
Authors: Li Chuan , Hsieh Jang-Hsing , Chuang Y. R.
Published: February 2021

Metal oxynitrides are compounds between nitrides and oxides with a certain level of photocatalytic functions. The purpose of this study is to investigate an appropriate range of oxygen flow rate during sputtering for depositing tantalum oxynitride films. The sputtering process was carried out under fixed nitrogen but variable oxygen flow rates. Post rapid thermal annealing was conducted at 800 °C for 5 min to transform the as-deposited amorphous films into crystalline phases. The material characterizations of annealed films include X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy for identifying crystal structures; scanning electron microscope for examining surface morphology; energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy to determine surface elemental compositions; four-point probe and Hall effect analysis to evaluate electrical resistivity; UV-visible-NIR spectroscopy for quantifying optical properties and optical bandgaps. To assess the photocatalytic function of oxynitride films, the degradation of methyl orange in de-ionized water was examined under continuous irradiation by a simulated solar light source for six hours. Results indicate that crystalline tantalum oxynitride films can be obtained if the O2 flow rate is chosen to be 0.25–1.5 sccm along with 10 sccm of N2 and 20 sccm of Ar. In particular, films deposited between 0.25 and 1.5 sccm O2 flow have higher efficiency in photodegradation on methyl orange due to a more comprehensive formation of oxynitrides.
A Theoretical Analysis of Relations between Pressure Changes along Xylem Vessels and Propagation of Variation Potential in Higher Plants
Authors: Sukhova Ekaterina , Akinchits Elena , Gudkov Sergey V. , Pishchalnikov Roman Y. , Vodeneev Vladimir , Sukhov Vladimir
Published: February 2021

Variation potential (VP) is an important long-distance electrical signal in higher plants that is induced by local damages, influences numerous physiological processes, and participates in plant adaptation to stressors. The transmission of increased hydraulic pressure through xylem vessels is the probable mechanism of VP propagation in plants; however, the rates of the pressure transmission and VP propagation can strongly vary. We analyzed this problem on the basis of a simple mathematical model of the pressure distribution along a xylem vessel, which was approximated by a tube with a pressure gradient. It is assumed that the VP is initiated if the integral over pressure is more than a threshold one, taking into account that the pressure is transiently increased in the initial point of the tube and is kept constant in the terminal point. It was shown that this simple model can well describe the parameters of VP propagation in higher plants, including the increase in time before VP initiation and the decrease in the rate of VP propagation with an increase in the distance from the zone of damage. Considering three types of the pressure dynamics, our model predicts that the velocity of VP propagation can be stimulated by an increase in the length of a plant shoot and also depends on pressure dynamics in the damaged zone. Our results theoretically support the hypothesis about the impact of pressure variations in xylem vessels on VP propagation.
The Associations between Imageability of Positive and Negative Valence Words and Fear Reactivity
Authors: Raghunath Bindiya Lakshmi , Mulatti Claudio , Neoh Michelle Jin-Yee , Bornstein Marc H. , Esposito Gianluca
Published: February 2021

This study investigated the associations of imageability with fear reactivity. Imageability ratings of four word classes: positive and negative (i) emotional and (ii) propriosensitive, neutral and negative (iii) theoretical and (iv) neutral concrete filler, and fear reactivity scores—degree of fearfulness towards different situations (Total Fear (TF) score) and total number of extreme fears and phobias (Extreme Fear (EF) score), were obtained from 171 participants. Correlations between imageability, TF and EF scores were tested to analyze how word categories and their valence were associated with fear reactivity. Imageability ratings were submitted to recursive partitioning. Participants with high TF and EF scores had higher imageability for negative emotional and negative theoretical words. The correlations between imageability of negative emotional words and negative theoretical words for EF score were significant. Males showed stronger correlations for imageability of negative emotional words for EF and TF scores. High imageability for positive emotional words was associated with lower fear reactivity in females. These findings were discussed with regard to negative attentional bias theory of anxiety, influence on emotional systems, and gender-specific coping styles. This study provides insight into cognitive functions involved in mental imagery, semantic competence for mental imagery in relation to fear reactivity, and a potential psycholinguistic instrument assessing fear reactivity.
Global Spatial and Temporal Variation of the Combined Effect of Aerosol and Water Vapour on Solar Radiation
Authors: Obregón María Ángeles , Serrano Antonio , Costa Maria João , Silva Ana Maria
Published: February 2021

This study aims to calculate the combined and individual effects of the optical thickness of aerosols (AOT) and precipitable water vapour (PWV) on the solar radiation reaching the Earth’s surface at a global scale and to analyse its spatial and temporal variation. For that purpose, a novel but validated methodology is applied to CERES SYN1deg products for the period 2000–2019. Spatial distributions of AOT and PWV effects, both individually and combined, show a close link with the spatial distributions of AOT and PWV. The spatially averaged combined effect results in a −13.9% reduction in irradiance, while the average AOT effect is −2.3%, and the PWV effect is −12.1%. The temporal analysis focuses on detecting trends in the anomalies. The results show overall positive trends for AOT and PWV. Consequently, significant negative overall trends are found for the effects. However, significant positive trends for the individual AOT and the combined AOT-PWV effects are found in specific regions, such as the eastern United States, Europe or Asia, indicating successful emission control policies in these areas. This study contributes to a better understanding of the individual and combined effects of aerosols and water vapour on solar radiation at a global scale.
Sensitivity Analysis and Optimization of a Radiative Transfer Numerical Model for Turbid Lake Water
Authors: Pyo JongCheol , Kwon Yong Sung , Ahn Jae-Hyun , Baek Sang-Soo , Kwon Yong-Hwan , Cho Kyung Hwa
Published: February 2021

Remote sensing can detect and map algal blooms. The HydroLight (Sequoia Scientific Inc., Bellevue, Washington, DC, USA) model generates the reflectance profiles of various water bodies. However, the influence of model parameters has rarely been investigated for inland water. Moreover, the simulation time of the HydroLight model increases as the amount of input data increases, which limits the practicality of the HydroLight model. This study developed a graphical user interface (GUI) software for the sensitivity analysis of the HydroLight model through multiple executions. The GUI software stably performed parameter sensitivity analysis and substantially reduced the simulation time by up to 92%. The GUI software results for lake water show that the backscattering ratio was the most important parameter for estimating vertical reflectance profiles. Based on the sensitivity analysis results, parameter calibration of the HydroLight model was performed. The reflectance profiles obtained using the optimized parameters agreed with observed profiles, with R2 values of over 0.98. Thus, a strong relationship between the backscattering coefficient and the observed cyanobacteria genera cells was identified.
Extracellular Vesicles in Autologous Cell Salvaged Blood in Orthopedic Surgery
Authors: Kutschera Maximilian , Pischlaeger Agnes , Sztulman Larissa , Kietaibl Sibylle , Spittler Andreas
Published: February 2021

(1) Background: Cell salvage is highly recommended in orthopedic surgery to avoid allogeneic transfusions. Preparational steps during cell salvage may induce extracellular vesicle (EV) formation with potential thrombogenic activity. The purpose of our study was to assess the appearance of EVs at retransfusion. (2) Methods: After ethics committee approval and informed consent, blood was withdrawn from the autotransfusion system (Xtra, Sorin, Germany) of 23 patients undergoing joint arthroplasty. EVs were assessed by flow cytometry in two times centrifugated samples. EVs were stained with specific antibodies against cellular origins from platelets (CD41), myeloid cells (CD15), monocytes (CD14), and erythrocytes (CD235a). The measured events/µL in the flow cytometer were corrected to the number of EVs in the retransfusate. (3) Results: We measured low event rates of EVs from platelets and myeloid origin (<1 event/µL) and from monocytic origin (<2 events/µL). Mean event rates of 17,042 events/µL (range 12–81,164 events/µL) were found for EVs from red blood cells. (4) Conclusion: Retransfusate contains negligible amounts of potentially thrombogenic EVs from platelet and monocytic origin. Frequent EVs from erythrocytes may indicate red blood cell destruction and/or activation during autologous cell salvage. Further research is needed to investigate the clinical relevance of EVs from salvaged red blood cells.
Cancer as a System Dysfunction
Authors: Saeed Khalid , Ryder Elizabeth F. , Manning Amity L.
Published: February 2021

In this paper, we describe a system dynamics model that views cancer as a dysfunction of the cellular system rather than as an ailment of cells. Our experiments with the model replicate the propagation of the ailment and the impacts of the treatments. It presents a concept that deviates from the pervasive view of cancer as a cell malfunction that has led to treatments aiming to destroy the rogue cells. It points to more holistic treatment options aiming at reforming cell interaction so the system can contain the growth of cancer cells. Further research is needed to explore the details for such options.
Feline Leukemia Virus p27 Antigen Concentration and Proviral DNA Load Are Associated with Survival in Naturally Infected Cats
Authors: Beall Melissa J. , Buch Jesse , Clark Genevieve , Estrada Marko , Rakitin Andrei , Hamman Natascha T. , Frenden Monica K. , Jefferson Ellen P. , Amirian E. Susan , Levy Julie K.
Published: February 2021

Longitudinal studies of cats naturally infected with feline leukemia virus (FeLV) are important for understanding disease outcomes. Levels of p27 antigen and copy numbers of proviral DNA have been associated with FeLV-infection courses. The purpose of this prospective study was to establish cutoff values for p27 antigen concentration and proviral DNA load that distinguished high positive from low positive groups of cats and to evaluate an association with survival. At enrollment, 254 cats were tested by point-of-care and microtiter plate enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) for p27 antigen and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for proviral DNA. The 127 positive cats were retested monthly for six months and monitored for survival over the four-year study. A receiver operating characteristic-based analysis of samples with concordant or discordant qualitative results for p27 antigen and proviral DNA was used to establish cutoff values, and when applied to test results at enrollment for classifying cats as high positive or low positive, a significant difference in survival was observed. High positive cats had a median survival of 1.37 years (95% CI 0.83–2.02) from time of enrollment, while most low positive cats were still alive (93.1% survival). Quantitative results for p27 antigen concentration and proviral DNA load were highly correlated with survival times in FeLV-infected cats.
PEDV Infection Generates Conformation-Specific Antibodies That Can Be Effectively Detected by a Cell-Based ELISA
Authors: Hsu Wei-Ting , Chang Chia-Yu , Tsai Chih-Hsuan , Wei Sung-Chan , Lo Huei-Ru , Lamis Robert John S. , Chang Hui-Wen , Chao Yu-Chan
Published: February 2021

Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) is a coronavirus that causes serious and highly contagious enteric disease in swine worldwide. In this study, we constructed a recombinant baculovirus (S-Bac) expressing full-length spike protein of the virulent epidemic genotype 2b (G2b) PEDV strain for serological studies of infected pigs. We found that most spike-specific antibodies produced upon PEDV infection in pigs are conformation-specific and they could be detected on S-Bac-infected insect cells by immunofluorescent assay, but they were insensitive to Western blot analysis, the typical method for antiserum analysis. These results indicated that spike conformation is crucial for serum recognition. Since it is difficult to purify trimeric spike membrane protein for conventional enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), we used S-Bac to generate a novel cell-based ELISA for convenient PEDV detection. We analyzed 100 pig serum samples, and our cell-based ELISA exhibited a sensitivity of 100%, a specificity of 97%, and almost perfect agreement [Cohen’s kappa coefficient value (κ) = 0.98] with immunocytochemical staining results. Our cell-based ELISA rapidly presented antigen for proper detection of conformation-specific antibodies, making PEDV detection more convenient, and it will be useful for detecting many viral diseases in the future.
TOLERANCE AS A UNIVERSAL COMPETENCE IN THE SYSTEM OF EUROPEAN EDUCATION
Authors: Bidenko Yevhen
Published: February 2021

Formal and informal means are used to foster tolerance in European educational institutions, including through the establishment of a complex set of moral values (inclusion, principles of academic integrity, etc.). The declared principles are reflected in the codes of ethics, which serve as guidelines for the development of national educational systems, provide an ethical foundation for educational practices of specific universities, and so on.
DEVELOPMENT OF EDUCATION IN THE CONTEXT OF THE MAIN CHALLENGES OF GLOBALIZATION
Authors: Syladiy Ivan
Published: February 2021

The world experience of civilizational development of the most advanced countries of the world testifies to the crucial role of the educational sphere in the formation of the whole sociocultural complex – modernization of production, improvement of social relations, science and culture, ensuring sustainable development of society, entry of industrial countries into the stage of post-industrial information society.
Educational systems have always focused on the needs of society and, despite the known conservatism, responded to the changes. The concept of “globalization of education” means the process of entry of the educational system into the European Higher Education Area and standardization of requirements: comparability of degrees, a single system of credit points, academic mobility and assessment of the quality of education.
The globalized world is an open world, but not an equal one. New challenges in the system of human preparation for life are not least due to socio-cultural dynamics, which is constantly accelerating under the pressure of globalization and the information revolution. Therefore, today it is important to know the main vectors of globalization and informatization not only on the development of modern society in general but also on the development of its education system in particular. The social stratification of states deepens faster than material, financial, intellectual, human resources and talents are pumped out of backward countries.
IMPACT OF “FAITH-BASED” EDUCATIONAL PROTESTANT INSTITUTIONS IN BUILDING THE PRINCIPLES OF THE US EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM: LESSONS FOR UKRAINE
Authors: Kunderenko Ivan
Published: February 2021

Author is examining three most common typical principles that influenced the educational system of the USA and argues that scaling those principles along with the experience of “faith-based” higher educational institutions may be helpful.
KAIZEN METHOD FOCUSED ON PROCESSES WITHIN THE PRIVATE HEALTH SERVICE
Authors: Hernández-Romero Gladys
Published: February 2021

This chapter puts forward the implementation of the Japanese philosophy “Kaizen” to apply in the processes of a private medical health service company, with the purpose of increasing quality and satisfaction. The study was developed with the identification of improvement points and priority   projects for the company, subsequently it gave way to the creation of control charts by calculating the arithmetic mean (X) and the range (R) of the service attention time with the collection of 100 samples. As a result, it was obtained that the processes are out of control against the changes that are derived from environmental variables.
Can party balloons replace autoinflation balloons to treat glue ear? A technical comparison
Authors: Marshall Katherine , Perera Rafael , Glasziou Paul , Fleming Susannah
Published: February 2021

Background

Autoinflation balloons are used to treat patients with otitis media with effusion (OME) to help avoid surgery.

Aim

To compare the ability of party balloons with Otovent balloons to produce sufficient pressure for a Valsalva manoeuvre.

Design & setting

Pressure testing was used to determine the number of times each balloon could produce pressures sufficient for a Valsalva manoeuvre. Subsequently, Otovent balloons were compared with spherical party balloons in a pilot clinical trial of 12 healthy adults.

Method

Each balloon was inflated 20 times and the maximum pressure was recorded. Three balloons of each type were tested to 50 inflations to assess pressures over persistent use.

Results

Otovent balloons’ mean inflation pressure was 93 mmHg (95% confidence interval [CI] = 89 to 97 mmHg) on first inflation, dropping to 83 mmHg (95% CI = 80 to 86 mmHg) after 20 inflations. Two types of spherical party balloon required mean inflation pressures of 84 mmHg (95% CI = 77 to 90 mmHg) and 108 mmHg (95% CI = 97 to 119 mmHg) on first inflation, dropping to 74 mmHg (95% CI = 68 to 81 mmHg) and 83 mmHg (95% CI = 77 to 88 mmHg) after 20 inflations. In the pilot trial, there was no difference between the ability of Otovent and spherical balloons (χ2 = 0.24, P = 0.89) to produce the sensation of a Valsalva manoeuvre.

Conclusion

Otovent balloons can be used more than the 20 times quoted by the manufacturer. The two spherical balloons produced similar pressures to Otovent balloons, indicating potentially the same clinical effect. The pilot study suggests a potential use of spherical party balloons instead of Otovent balloons as a cost-efficient treatment.
Eficiencia del coagulante opuntia ficus indica en aguas con alta turbidez y ph básico
Authors: Caldera Yaxcelys , Laguna Granadillo Kendry Willian , Millán Laguna Enmanuel De Jesús
Published: February 2021

El objetivo de esta investigación es evaluar la eficiencia del coagulante Opuntia ficus indica en la remoción de turbidez durante el tratamiento de aguas con alta turbidez y pH básico. Se utilizó agua sintética a valores de turbidez inicial de 100, 150 y 200 UNT y pH de 9 unidades. El coagulante O. ficus indica desecado se preparó a concentración del 10 % m/v, evaluándose las dosis de 50, 100 y 150 mg/L. Se determinaron los parámetros pH, color y turbidez antes del tratamiento, después de la sedimentación y posterior a la filtración. El coagulante O. ficus indica demostró su eficiencia en aguas con alta turbidez y pH básico, alcanzando remociones máximas de turbidez y color de 97,4 % y 91,5 %, respectivamente, después de la sedimentación. La mayor remoción se obtuvo a la turbidez inicial más alta (200 UNT) y dosis óptima de 50 mg/L.
Elementos discriminantes para la estimación de la creatividad en la industria petrolera venezolana
Authors: Yaguas Ana
Published: February 2021

La presente investigación tuvo como objetivo identificar los elementos discriminantes de la creatividad en la industria petrolera Venezolana. La metodología aplicada fue de tipo descriptiva, transaccional, no experimental y de campo; con una población de doscientos veintiún informantes de las diversas gerencias de estudios integrados de yacimientos en el ámbito nacional, a los cuales se les aplicó la técnica de recolección de datos, encuesta, mediante un cuestionario contentivo de nueve ítems. Se utilizó la validez de contenido por juicio de expertos. Este fue sometido a una prueba piloto para calcular la confiabilidad por medio del coeficiente Alpha-Cronbach, resultando altamente confiable. Para el análisis de los datos se utilizó la estadística descriptiva, a través de la media aritmética. Se obtuvo alta presencia del  proceso creativo, experiencia y motivación como elementos discriminantes de la creatividad.
Requerimientos para proyectos menores de infraestructura en universidades públicas de la costa oriental del lago
Authors: Becerra Adolfo
Published: February 2021

La investigación busco determinar los requerimientos para el desarrollo de los proyectos menores de infraestructura en las universidades públicas de la Costa Oriental del Lago. La población estuvo constituida por coordinadores y supervisores de infraestructura de las instituciones analizadas. La recolección de datos se realizó a través de un cuestionario con alternativas de frecuencia compuesto por 13 ítems, el cual fue validado por 5 expertos. Para determinar la confiabilidad se calculó mediante el método de Alfa de Cronbach, obteniéndose un valor de 0,96. La media aritmética se usó para el análisis de los resultados. Se evidencio que en las universidades analizadas los proyectos se desarrollan con baja utilización de las técnicas y el equipo necesario en la ejecución de las actividades de un proyecto, así como de los indicadores económicos y financieros, pero si cuentan con sistemas de gestión para facilitar la dirección de proyectos.
APOYO TECNOLÓGICO EN LA GESTIÓN DE PROCURA DE LAS GERENCIAS DE OPERACIÓN INTEGRAL DE PLANTAS
Authors: Sarmiento Cesar
Published: February 2021

Con el objetivo de determinar el apoyo tecnológico aplicado en la gestión de procura de las gerencias de operación integral de plantas de la industria petrolera división occidente, se realiza esta investigación de tipo descriptiva, con diseño no experimental, de campo y transeccional. Los datos se recolectaron de una población finita, cuyas unidades de análisis fueron los gerentes y líderes, encargados del proceso de procura, a quienes se les aplico un cuestionario de 15 ítems. La validez fue a través del juicio de expertos, y para la confiabilidad se empleó el Coeficiente Alfa de Cronbach, cuyo valor fue 0,942. El análisis de los datos se realizó mediante la media aritmética. Se concluye que, tanto los sistemas de información internos como la plataforma tecnológica ostentan alta aplicación, no obstante, el internet como apoyo tecnológico se muestra con baja aplicación.
Le processus d’autonomisation des dieux dans le Japon médiéval. Le cas de Kirime dōji
Authors: Brotons Arnaud
Published: February 2021

This study follows in the footsteps of the methodological guidelines formulated by Jean-Pierre Vernant on the importance of considering gods as powers who build a system between them. The article looks at the construction process of Kirime, a minor deity of the pantheon of the three shrines of Kumano (south of Wakayama Prefecture) during the medieval period, whose representation in the maṇḍala of Kumano shows him with his right leg amputated. It will be shown that the empowerment of this deity from his tutelary god, Kumano’s gongen, was possible through the intensification of ancient ties with another subordinate deity, Akomachi, celebrated at Fushimi Inari Shrine (Kyoto). The study mainly draws on the analysis of the rite of expelling auxiliary spirits, or gohō okuri, that the pilgrims performed on their return from Kumano at Inari Shrine. I show that the manipulation of these dangerous and protective spirits was entrusted to the Myōbu deity, assimilated to Akomachi, and through her, by the Shinto-Buddhist equivalents, to the ḍākinī, dangerous Buddhist deities. The question of the origin of the one-legged nature of the god leads us to see this figure as the synthesis of mythical elements related to the mastery of water with the transgressive figure of the Buddhist king Kalmāṣapāda.
New data on the distribution area of the Atlas foxglove Digitalis atlantica (Pomel) / Nouvelles données sur l’aire de distribution de la Digitale de l’Atlas Digitalis atlantica (Pomel)
Authors: Chelli-Tabti Dalila , Markhouf Sabrina , Derradji Soria , Hamitouche Souad , Bouchareb Abdelouhab , Bougaham Abdelazize Franck
Published: February 2021

This study is a first aimed at searching for a plant strictly endemic to Algeria, Digitalis atlantica Pomel, for a possible evaluation of its conservation status. The research was conducted from March to July 2019 in the forests of the Babor mountains, in the north-eastern area of Kabylia, likely to contain this species. The discovery of three new locations of the Atlas foxglove, outside its historical occurrence, has allowed the collection of new data on this species and its range. The conservation of the species is expected to be problematic because the three new forests sites do not benefit from protected area status.
Distribution géographique des espèces du genre Tamarix L. (Tamaricaceae) au Maroc / Geographical distribution of Tamarix L. (Tamaricaceae) in Morocco
Authors: Bihaoui Abdesslam , Haddioui Abdelmajid , Hammada Soumaya
Published: February 2021

For the present work, 51 sites, spread over the majority of the Moroccan regions, were chosen to study the genus Tamarix. Harvested specimens were identified using different determination keys. The morphological and ecological characters observed show that the species of this genus have a great plasticity and a strong capacity of adaptation to the ecological conditions of the environments which they occupy. Some species of the genus Tamarix are phreatophytic while others are psammophytes. The presence of some species of this genus in the Saharan regions (M’hamide El Ghizlane, Merzouga, etc.) shows that they are thermophilous. Besides, others tolerate areas located at high altitudes with very low temperatures (Bounwal 1 052 m, Ben Chrou 1 273 m) or develop near springs. The study also shows the ability of these species to colonize coastal ecosystems where the waters are brackish or salty. In addition to these adaptations, some species are used as shelterbelts or against soil erosion, since their root system is deeper than co-existing species and that they are resistant to drought. This study highlights the distribution and diversity of habitats in which Tamarix

species can coexist. This study allowed us to confirm the presence of certain species already reported in these locations, and subsequently to update the distribution of species of the genus Tamarix in Morocco.
СЕНСОРНА ІНТЕРАКТИВНА ДОШКА В ОСВІТНЬОМУ СЕРЕДОВИЩІ НУШ
Authors: Овчар Н. В.
Published: February 2021

лише в навчальному процесі, а й в організації самого освітнього середовища. Основною її метою є формування ключових компетенції, однією серед яких є інформаційно-цифрова. Орієнтуючись на законодавство України, визначено засіб, що сприятиме досягненню поставлених завдань. Це сенсорна інтерактивна дошка (СІД). На підставі аналізу педагогічних джерел та нормативної бази з‟ясовано поняття «освітнє середовище Нової української школи». Охарактеризовано вісім навчальних осередків – навчально-пізнавальний, тематичний, ігровий, художньо-творчий, куток живої природи, відпочинку, класної бібліотеки, учителя. Зазначається, що осередки в класі варто організовувати так, щоб дитина могла самостійно їх доповнити. Визначено шляхи використання сенсорної інтерактивної дошки в цих зонах класу; її особливості та можливості. З‟ясовано, що сенсорна інтерактивна дошка виступає засобом реалізації можливостей учителя. За допомогою спеціальних програм він може реалізувати не лише свій потенціал, але й учнів. У статті коротко описано деякі з них (Starfall, Тopmarks, Рrometheanplanet), наведено приклади використання. Визначено очікуваний результат на основі власних спостережень та практики роботи. Зазначається, що не лише навчальні програми можуть сприяти досягненню мети, але й стандартне забезпечення, таке як нотатки. Використання сенсорної інтерактивної дошки в освітньому середовищі НУШ спирається на досвід та бажання вчителя. Часто можна спостерігати пасивне використання зазначеного засобу навчання – як екран монітору. В цьому випадку інтерактивна дошка не виконує своїх функцій і не надає достатньо якісної навчальної інформації, до якої можна «доторкнутися». Важливим є організація такого виду діяльності, при якому діти застосовуватимуть практичні навички при роботі з СІД. Саме таким чином і формуватиметься інформаційно-цифрова компетентність.
ОСОБЛИВОСТІ ПАРТНЕРСЬКИХ ВІДНОСИН МІЖ УЧНЯМИ 5-6 КЛАСІВ В ОСВІТНЬОМУ СЕРЕДОВИЩІ ЗАКЛАДУ ЗАГАЛЬНОЇ СЕРЕДНЬОЇ ОСВІТИ
Authors: Сімсіт І. І.
Published: February 2021

У закладі загальної середньої освіти починають цілеспрямовано формуватися партнерські взаємини, оскільки школа має всі важелі для регулювання цього процесу, спрямованого на подолання соціальної напруженості на засадах пріоритету прав особистості, рівноправності, обмеження соціальної нерівності. У цьому сенсі вважається сензитивним підлітковий вік, що характеризується пріоритетом взаємин із однолітками, тобто підвищеним прагненням до спілкування і дружби з ними, що актуалізує необхідність виховання партнерських взаємин між учнями 5-6 класів на засадах принципів партнерства. Актуальність теми поданої статті об‟єктивно зумовлена стратегічними положеннями Концепції Нової української школи (2017 р), де зазначено, що сучасна школа має працювати на засадах «педагогіки партнерства», основними принципами якої є взаємодія, доброзичливість, повага, довіра, взаємна відповідальність, добровільність, обов‟язковість виконання домовленостей тощо. Мета – визначення особливостей партнерських взаємин учнів 5-6 класів в освітньому середовищі закладу загальної середньої освіти. Методи дослідження: систематизація (класифіковано основні підходи до визначення вікових особливостей підлітків, які впливають на партнерство між ними в умовах шкільного середовища), порівняльний метод (здійснено співставлення поглядів на визначення та характеристику підходів до вказаної проблематики). У статті проаналізовано наукові підходи щодо класифікації та характеристики вікових особливостей підлітків 5-6 класів освітнього шкільного середовища, які впливають на формування партнерських взаємин із однолітками. Оцінка цих особливостей здійснена через співвіднесення з основними концептуальними засадами вікової психології (соціальною ситуацією розвитку; провідною діяльністю; новоутвореннями). У межах напряму соціальної ситуації розвитку виділено вікові особливості в розрізі соціально-психологічних характеристик, які характеризують соціалізацію підлітків в оточуючому середовищі (відповідальність, комунікабельність, ввічливість, тактовність, сумлінність, серйозність, уважність до потреб інших, повагу до інших, прийняття думки партнерів, вміння пристосовуватися, надійність, готовність надати допомогу, справедливість, прояв лідерських якостей підлітка серед однолітків, 89 автономність (незалежність) тощо) та визначають їх психологічні особливості (особистісна риса фасилітації (потреба здійснення психологічної підтримки та допомоги). У контексті провідної діяльності визначено вікову особливість креативності (здатності до творчості), яка виокремлена в розрізі когнітивного підходу. В площині новоутворень встановлено вікову особливість емоційно-вольового компоненту (фрустрацію на самозахисті власного «Я»).
ЗАКОНОМІРНОСТІ ТА ПРИНЦИПИ ТЕАТРАЛЬНОЇ ПЕДАГОГІКИ ЯК ГАЛУЗІ НАУКОВОГО ЗНАННЯ
Authors: Штефан Л. А. , Каліна К. Є.
Published: February 2021

У статті проаналізовано основні закономірності та принципи театральної педагогіки як галузі наукового знання. Вивчення філософських, психологічних, культурологічних та мистецькознавчих джерел і зв‟язків театральної педагогіки з науками про людину дозволило провідні закономірності театральної педагогіки як науки поділити на: закономірності, котрі є спільними для філософії та театральної педагогіки; закономірності, які є спільними для психології та театральної педагогіки; закономірності, що властиві виключно для педагогічної науки; закономірності, котрі властиві театральній педагогіці. З‟ясовано, що до провідних закономірностей театральної педагогіки належать: залежність змісту театральної педагогіки від соціальної політики держави; взаємозв‟язок та взаємозалежність між метою соціального розвитку та рівнем розвитку театральної педагогіки; вплив навколишнього середовища на формування особистості; сумісний інтерес актора і глядача в кінцевому результаті їхньої взаємодії; цілісність впливу акторів на глядачів; єдність мети, завдань, змісту, методів і форм театральної діяльності; відповідність повноважень та відповідальності усіх учасників театрального дійства. До специфічних принципів театральної педагогіки як самостійної галузі наукового знання можна віднести: принцип добровільності; принцип дотримання законності; принцип відповідальності суб‟єктів театральної діяльності за дотримання етичних та правових норм; принцип універсальності; принцип клієнтоцентризму; принципи справедливості та комунікативності; принцип доповнювання, котрий передбачає підхід до розвитку людини як сукупності взаємопов‟язаних процесів (природного, культурного, соціального та ін.); принцип інтеграції, який включає взаємодопомогу всіх соціальних інституцій у процесі формування особистості; принцип партнерства та взаємної довіри та деякі інші. Отже, проаналізовані нами питання закономірностей та принципів театральної педагогіки переконливо доводять, що зазначена педагогіка є самостійною галуззю наукового знання, має категорії, які є спільними як з філософією, педагогікою та психологією, так і власні категорії, котрі притаманні суто театральній педагогіці.
Giyilebilir Teknolojik Ürünlerin Tasarımında Etkili Olan Faktörlerin Best-Worst Metodu (BWM) İle Değerlendirilmesi
Authors: KOCA Gözde , URMAK AKÇAKAYA Ezgi Dilan
Published: February 2021

Teknolojinin gelişimi ile birlikte sadece bilgisayarlar ve akıllı telefonlar değil, kullandığımız kıyafet ve aksesuarlar da akıllı cihaza dönüşebilmektedir. Kullanıcı veri alışverişi daha küçük cihazlarla, kullanıcının vücuduna monte durumunda gerçekleşmesi birçok açıdan kolaylık sağlamaktadır. Bu nedenle giyilebilir teknlojik ürünlerin tasarımında dikkat edilmesi gereken faktörler önem arz etmektedir. Bu çalışmada da, giyilebilir teknolojik ürünlerin tasarımında etkili olan faktörlerin, öznel kriter ağırlıklandırma yöntemlerinden biri olan Best-Worst metodu ile değerlendirilmesi amaçlanmıştır. Bu nedenle giyilebilir teknolojik ürünlerin tasarımında uzman beş kişilik bir ekip tarafından değerlendirmeler yapılmıştır. Değerlendirmelerin çözümlemeleri için BWM-Solver tercih edilmiştir. Sonuçta, en önemli ana faktörün “Akıllılık”, en az önemli ana faktörün ise “Moda” olduğu, en önemli alt faktörün “Bilgi Sağlama”, en az önemli alt faktörün ise “Teknoloji” olduğu belirlenmiştir. Ayrıca BWM yönteminin tutarlılığını ve kullanışlılığını göstermek için bir duyarlılık analizi yapılmıştır.
ALTERNATIVE METHODS FOR MANUFACTURING A GEAR WHEEL OF A PLANETARY REDUCTOR WITH INTERNAL GEARING
Authors: Kozhevnikova A. A. , Shvedunenko A. A.
Published: February 2021

The paper considers alternative methods of manufacturing gears using the example of manufacturing a gear of a planetary reductor. Modern progressive methods for the manufacture of gears, such as laser and electrical discharge machining, are analyzed, on the basis of the analysis, the advantages of these methods are highlighted in comparison with standard manufacturing methods. The advantages of the technological process of manufacturing a gear wheel by alternative methods are described.
CONDITION OF THE TREATED SURFACE OF NIOBIUM-BASED ALLOY WHEN GRINDING FROM SILICON CARBIDE
Authors: Nosenko V. A. , Fetisov A. V. , Kuznetsov S. P. , Karpov V. G.
Published: February 2021

The study of the surface of silicon carbide after grinding niobium was carried out on a Versa 3D electronic microscope. It is shown that as a result of the grinding, traces of the grinding wheel material are formed on the treated surface, and the ground material itself is prone to adhesion to the grinding wheel. As a result of cohesive interaction, the metal adhering to the grinding wheel is transferred, and vice versa. And, as a result of adhesion-fatigue processes, mechanical action, there is a hanging wear of the grinding wheel and the indentation of individual crystals of silicon carbide into the surface of the metal being processed. This article examines such features of the behavior of niobium, when grinding it with silicon wheels and is considered from the standpoint of the electronic structure of the metal atom.