bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developing a tool to assess institutional readiness to conduct knowledge translation activities in low-and middle-income countries
Authors: Kalbarczyk Anna , Rao Aditi , Alonge Olakunle O
Published: August 2020

Background

Academic institutions are well-poised to conduct knowledge translation (KT) but face many barriers, particularly in low resource settings where the need is greatest. Assessing the readiness of academic institutions to conduct KT can help our understanding of these barriers. However, limited research has been conducted to understand influencers of readiness for KT in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and there are no tools for KT readiness assessment designed for LMIC contexts. This paper describes the development of a tool for assessing organizational readiness to conduct KT among academic institutions in LMICs.
Methods

A literature review and stakeholder consultation process was conducted to identify constructs and items relevant for assessing KT readiness in LMICs. These were face validated with LMIC stakeholders and organized into a questionnaire measured on a Likert scale. A quantitative survey was conducted and the questionnaire distributed to faculty based at 6 LMIC academic institutions, as well as members of a global knowledge-to-action thematic working group. An exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was used to identify underlying dimensions of a tool for assessing institutional readiness to conduct KT.
Results

A total of 111 respondents with varied KT experiences from 10 LMICs (including Bangladesh, Ethiopia, DR Congo, India, Indonesia, Nigeria) were included in the analysis. We selected five factors and 23 items, with factor loadings ranging from 0.40 to 0.77. The five factors include 1) institutional climate, 2) organization change efficacy, 3) prioritization and cosmopolitanism, 4) self-efficacy, and 5) financial resources. These five factors accounted for 69% of the total variance, with Cronbach’s alpha coefficients of 0.78, 0.73, 0.62, 0.68, and 0.52, respectively.
Conclusions

This study identify a tool for assessing readiness of LMIC academic institutions to conduct KT, and unique opportunities for building capacity among academic institutions for KT. The organizational focus of these factors underscores the need for strategies that address organizational systems and structures in addition to individual knowledge, skills, and tools. Future research will be conducted to understand determinants of these factors and develop a comprehensive set of capacity building strategies responsive to academic institutions in LMICs.
Novel EPHB4 mutation in capillary malformation-arteriovenous malformation syndrome 2 (CM-AVM2): the first genetic study in Asians
Authors: Li Yuanbo , Sun Yi , Zeng Xiaojing , Liu Yun , Liu Fatao , Lin Xiaoxi , CAI Ren , Chen Hui
Published: August 2020

Capillary malformation-arteriovenous malformation syndrome (CM-AVM), a rare vascular malformation, is autosomal dominant and characterized by hereditary capillary malformations (CMs) and potential fast-flow vascular malformation underlying CMs in around one-third of patients, affecting approximately 0.3-0.5% of newborns. CM-AVM was first discovered in association with germline RASA-1 mutation and termed CM-AVM type 1 in 2003. Later, germline EPHB4 mutations were detected in RASA-1-negative CM-AVMs, also known as CM-AVM type 2. Although there have been recent genetic studies confirming the molecular basis of CM-AVM, few have focused on Asian populations, leading to the lack of comprehensive molecular profiling. In this study, we report a female patient diagnosed as CM-AVM2 with a novel stop-gain mutation causing loss of function of the EPHB4 gene. As far as we know, this is the first genetic report of germline EPHB4 loss-of-functional mutation related CM-AVM 2 in Asians, extending our understanding of CM-AVM.
The Neuroprotective Effects of Xenon on Neonatal Rats with White Matter Damage by Regulating Expression of microRNA-210 and HIF-1αThe Neuroprotective Effects of Xenon on Neonatal Rats with White Matter Damage by Regulating Expression of microRNA-210 and HIF-1α
Authors: Yin Xiangyun , Zhao Jixiu , Jiang Jian , Xi Hongmin , Li Xianghong , Zhang Lulu , Jiang Hong
Published: August 2020

Background:Premature infant is a significant health care burden. White matter damage (WMD) is a leading cause of acute mortality and chronic morbidity in preterm. Xenon (Xe) intervention was given to the 3-day-old neonatal rats with brain white matter injury. By detecting the changes in the expression level of microRNA210 and hypoxia inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α) in brain tissue before and after xenon intervention, we can research the molecular basis and the mechanism of neuroprotective on effect of xenon on brain white matter damage in neonatal rats.Methods:Three-day-old SD rats were randomly divided into sham group(Group A, n=24), lipopolysaccharide(LPS)+hypoxia-ischemia(HI) group (Group B, n=24) and LPS+HI+Xe group ( n=72). The onset of Xe inhalation started at 0,2 and 5 hours in subgroups C,D,and E respectively.We investigated the neurobehavioral deficits by performing TUNEL and hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining and examining the expression of miR-210and HIF-1α in brain tissues via RT-PCR and western blot. Results: Xe treatment improved the histological alterations and decreased the number of apoptotic cells in group C pups.Compared to group A,Detection of miR-210 level by RT-PCR. the expression level of miR-210 in neonatal rats' periventricular tissue increased significantly at all time points in group B (p<0.05).While the expression level of miR-210 in brain tissues of group B was significantly lower at 48h and 72h than that of group C(p<0.05).Similarly,Detection of HIF-1α protein by Western blot. The level of HIF-1α protein in group B brain tissues was significantly higher than that of group A at each time point (p<0.05), Xe treatment resulted in a marked increase in HIF-1α in C,D, and E subgroups (P < 0.05, compared to group B).Conclusions: These results demonstrate that the expression of HIF-1α and miR-210 increased in periventricular tissues and Xe could relieve the white matter damage by up-regulating the expression of HIF-1α and its target gene miR-210.The Xe therapeutic time window was within 5 hours after intervention, the sooner the better.
Flaxseed Polysaccharide Altering Colonic Gene Expression of Lipid Metabolism and Energy Metabolism in Obese Rat
Authors: Lin Xiaohong , Qi Jiamei , Zhang Guangwen , Peng Xichun
Published: August 2020

BackgroundObesity is one of the most serious public health challenges. Recently, we found that flaxseed polysaccharide (FP) had an anti-obesity effect through promoting lipid metabolism, inducing satiety and regulating gut microbiota, but how FP promote lipid metabolism through altering the colonic epithelial cells remains to be elucidated. In this study, a transcriptome study was performed to investigate the effect of FP altering the gene expression of colonic epithelial cells in an obese rat model. ResultsThe transcriptome analysis showed that 3,785 genes were differentially expressed after FP intervention in colonic epithelial cells, including 374 down-regulated and 3,411 up-regulated genes. Through KEGG analysis, we found out three classical pathways related to lipid metabolism and energy metabolism, including PPAR signaling pathway, nitrogen metabolism and oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). Moreover, qRT-PCR results showed consistent expression trends of differential genes with transcriptome analysis. ConclusionsThe anti-obesity effect of FP may be achieved by regulating the expression of lipid metabolism- and energy metabolism-related proteins acting on the PPAR (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor) signaling pathway, nitrogen metabolism and OXPHOS pathway in vivo.
Endoscopic lung volume reduction coils for patients with severe emphysema – a single-center retrospective analysis
Authors: Mang Sebastian , Hus Niklas , Schäfers Hans-Joachim , Wehrfritz Holger , Massmann Alexander , Lensch Christian , Langer Frank , Seiler Frederik , Bals Robert , Lepper Philipp M.
Published: August 2020

BackgroundPatients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lung emphysema may benefit from surgical or endoscopic lung volume reduction (ELVR). Previously reported outcomes of nitinol-coil-based endoscopic lung volume reduction techniques have been ambiguous.Objectives The analysis was done to analyze outcomes of ELVR with nitinol-coils in patients with severe pulmonary emphysema.MethodsFrom September 2013 to November 2014, our center performed a total of 41 coil implantations on 29 patients with severe emphysema. Coils were bronchoscopically placed during general anesthesia. 12 out of 29 patients received contralateral treatments 4-6 weeks later to avoid bilateral pneumothorax. Lung function and 6-minute walking distance were assessed one week prior, one week after as well as 6 to 12 months after the procedure. Patients were followed up to 48 months after ELVR and overall mortality was compared to a historic cohort.ResultsWhile coil-based ELVR led to significant short-term improvement of vital capacity (VC, + 0.14 l ± 0.39 l, p = 0.032) and hyperinflation (ΔRV / TLC -2.32% ± 6.24%, p = 0.022), no significant changes were observed in 6-minute walking distance (6-MWD) or forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1). Benefits were short-lived, with only 15.4% and 14.3% of patients showing sustained improvements in FEV1 or residual volume (RV) after 6 months. Adverse events included hemoptysis (40 %) and pneumothorax (3.4 %), major complications occurred in 6.9% of cases. Overall survival without lung transplant was 63.8% after 48 months following ELVR, differing insignificantly from what BODE indices of patients would have predicted as median 4-year survival (57%) at the time of ELVR treatment.ConclusionEndoscopic lung volume reduction coils can achieve small and short-lived benefits in lung function at the cost of major complications in a highly morbid cohort. Treatment failed to improve 4-year overall survival. ELVR coils are not worthwhile the risk for most patients with severe emphysema.
Supplemental Far-red Light-emitting Diode Light Increases Growth of Foxglove Seedlings Under Sole-source Lighting
Authors: Elkins Claudia , van Iersel Marc W.
Published: August 2020

Seedlings may be grown indoors where environmental conditions can be precisely controlled to ensure consistent and reliable production. The optimal spectrum for production under sole-source lighting is currently unknown. Far-red light (λ = 700–800 nm) typically is not a significant part of the spectrum of light-emitting diode (LED) grow lights. However, far-red light is photosynthetically active and can enhance leaf elongation, which may result in larger leaves and increased light interception. We hypothesized that adding far-red light to sole-source lighting would increase the growth of ‘Dalmatian Peach’ foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) seedlings grown under white LED lights, potentially shortening production times. Our objective was to evaluate the effect of far-red light intensities, ranging from 4.0 to 68.8 µmol·m−2·s−1, on the growth and morphology of foxglove seedlings. Foxglove seedlings were grown in a growth chamber with a photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) of 186 ± 6.4 μmol·m−2·s−1 and supplemental far-red light intensities ranging from 4.0 to 68.8 µmol·m−2·s−1. As far-red light increased, shoot dry weight, root dry weight, plant height, and plant height/number of leaves increased by 38% (P = 0.004), 20% (P = 0.029), 38% (P = 0.025), and 34% (P = 0.024), respectively, while root weight fraction decreased 16% (P = 0.034). Although we expected supplemental far-red light to induce leaf and/or stem expansion, specific leaf area and compactness (two measures of morphology) were unaffected. Because a 37% increase in total photon flux density (PPFD plus far-red light) resulted in a 34.5% increase in total plant dry weight, the increased growth likely was due to increased photosynthesis rather than a shade-acclimation response. The growth response was linear across the 4.0 to 68.8 µmol·m−2·s−1 range of far-fed light tested, so we were unable to determine a saturating far-red photon flux density.
Uso de residuos de café como biosorbente para la remoción de metales pesados en aguas residuales
Authors: Carvajal Florez Elizabeth , Marulanda Luisa Fernanda
Published: August 2020

El presente artículo presenta una revisión de los diferentes residuos  del beneficio y consumo de café, usados como material adsorbente en la biosorción de metales pesados de soluciones acuosas. Se esboza en primera instancia particularidades de la biosorción, como  los mecanismos de captura de los contaminantes, tipos de materiales adsorbentes, entre ellos los provenientes del café, como las variables que controlan el proceso. En una segunda instancia se plasman investigaciones en relación a la biosorción, en las que se desarrollaron cinéticas químicas para evaluar velocidades de remoción de los metales pesados, e isotermas  para determinar tasas o capacidades de adsorción con los residuos de café modificados térmica o químicamente. Se puede señalar  que muchos autores han encontrado ventajas competitivas frente al uso de residuos café como la pulpa, borra, mucílago, entre otros, en comparación con adsorbentes convencionales, debido a su propiedades fisicoquímicas los convierten en unos excelentes intercambiadores iónicos , son de alta abundancia debido a la vocación agrícola del  país y al  alto consumo del café a nivel nacional e internacional, además de su bajo costo y facilidad de manejo y tratamiento, concluyéndose entonces que dichos materiales presentan un futuro promisorio en el tratamiento de efluentes líquidos.
Modelo de adecuabilidad para representar zonas de favorabilidad para la explotación de un depósito geotérmico
Authors: Zuluaga Valencia Carlos Nicolás , Londoño Ciro Libardo Antonio
Published: August 2020

En este artículo se presenta un modelo de adecuabilidad para representar zonas de favorabilidad geotérmica a partir de datos de las variables Gravedad, Anomalía de Bouguer y Campo Magnético Terrestre, que permita delimitar y optimizar los procesos de exploración geocientífica para la realización de perforaciones exploratorias profundas.  Los datos se han tomado de estudios de exploración geotérmica adelantada en el Complejo Volcánico del Nevado del Ruiz (CVNR) durante los años 1980, 1983 y 2015, los cuales se depuraron mediante la comparación entre las cotas obtenidas en campo y un MDE más reciente, sin tener en cuenta los valores de gravedad medidos.  Se evaluaron diferentes modelos con validación cruzada para obtener el mejor modelo para representar las superficies de las tres variables de trabajo y mediante AHP se procede a hacer un análisis de escenarios que finalmente permite obtener el mapa de adecuabilidad con las zonas de mejor favorabilidad geotérmica.
Integrated Microfluidic Flow Sensor for LAB-oN-CHIP and PoINT-oF-CARE Applications
Authors: Zverev A.V. , Andronik M. , Echeistov V.V. , Issabayeva Z.H. , Sorokina O.S. , Konstantinova T. , Lotkov E.S. , Ryzhikov I.A. , Rodionov I.A.
Published: August 2020

The results of the development and manufacture of an integrated membrane-free sensor for the control of accurate dilution of liquid samples on the microfluidic chip are presented. The proposed type of devices is intended for direct precise measurements of liquid flow rate in microchannels of laboratories-on-chip, including point-of-care systems. The sensor topology was optimized based on the numerical simulation results and technological requirements. The main characteristic of the developed sensor is the lack of a membrane in the design while maintaining the sensitivity and accuracy of the device at the level of a commercial membrane analogue. The fully biocompatible sensor was manufactured using standard microelectronics and soft lithography technologies. In order to optimize the sensor design, 32 different topologies of the device were tested. The integration of the flow sensors on the chip allows to significantly reduce the dead volume of the hydrodynamic system and to control the amount of liquid entering the individual reservoirs of the microfluidic chip. The sensor occupies an area of (210 x 140) um2 in the channel and is characterized by a relative error of 5% in the flow rate range of 100-1000 ul/min.

microfluidics, lab-on-chip, calorimetric flow sensor, thermoresistive sensor, numerical simulation, hydrodynamics, complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor, microtechnologies

Devices were made at the BMSTU Nanofabrication Facility (FMN Laboratory, FMNS REC, ID 74300).
Biodegradation of organophosphorus Pollutants by Soil Bacteria: Biochemical Aspects and Unsolved Problems
Authors: Shushkova T.V. , Epiktetov D.O. , Tarlachkov S.V. , Ermakova I.T. , Leontievskii A.A.
Published: August 2020

The degradation of persistent organophosphorus pollutants have been studied in 6 soil bacterial isolates and in 3 bacterial strains adapted for utilization of glyphosate herbicide (GP) under laboratory conditions. Significant differences in the uptake of organophosphonates were found in taxonomically close strains possessing similar enzymatic pathways of catabolism of these compounds, which indicates the existence of unknown mechanisms of activity regulation of these enzymes. The effect of adaptation for GP utilization as a sole phosphorus source on assimilation rates of several other phosphonates was observed in studied bacteria. The newly found efficient stains provided up to 56% of GP decomposition after application to the soil in the laboratory. The unresolved problems of microbial GP metabolism and the trends for further research on the creation of reliable biologicals capable of decomposing organophosphonates in the environment are discussed.

organophosphonates, glyphosate, biodegradation, bioremediation, C-P lyase, phosphonatase, degrading bacteria

Investigation of phosphonatase and genome sequencing were supported by Russian Science Foundation Grant no. 18-074-00021.
Pigment Composition of Haematococcus pluvialis Green Alga under the Action of Several Inducers of Astaxanthin Accumulation
Authors: Goncharik R.G. , Kulikov E.A. , Selishcheva A.A.
Published: August 2020

The content of astaxanthin, including its mono- and diesters, and photosynthetic pigments, has been analyzed in cells of H. pluvialis strain IBCE-H17 under the combined prolonged action of several inducers of astaxanthin accumulation. The effective induction of the astaxanthin accumulation, mainly in the form of monoesters of fatty acids, was shown after a 20-day cultivation under high-intensity light and with the addition of 1-2 g/l of sodium acetate to the culture medium. A simultaneous decrease in the content of chlorophylls and lutein in the H. pluvialis cells was observed under these conditions. The use of sodium acetate in combination with sodium chloride did not lead to noticeable changes in the content of astaxanthin compared with the use of sodium acetate alone. The obtained data can be helpful in the biotechnological production of Haematococcus biomass enriched with economically valuable compounds.

astaxanthin, Haematococcus pluvialis, pigments, sodium acetate, sodium chloride, high-intensity light.

This work was supported by Grant no. Б19РМ-010 of the Belarusian Republican Foundation for Fundamental Research and Grant no. 19-54-04003 of the Russian Foundation for Basic Research.
Biotechnological Aspects of obtaining Functional Ingredients by the Conversion of Saccharomyces cerevisiae 985-Т Biomass
Authors: Rimareva L.V. , Overchenko M.B. , Ignatova N.I. , Shelekhova N.V. , Pogorzhelskaya N.S. , Abramova I.M.
Published: August 2020

An algorithm for the biocatalytic conversion of polymers of subcellular structures of Saccharomyces cerevisiae 985-T has been developed. It was shown that the action of enzymes on cell wall mannoproteins and (3-glucans led to deformation of their structure and the transfer of more than 50% of polysaccharides to a soluble state with the formation of 13.4% reducing carbohydrates, 1.8% amine nitrogen and 7.7% free amino acids (biological-1). Biological-2 had an increased content of total carbohydrates (32.2%) and fiber (10.5%). It was found that the combined action of the complex of proteinases and peptidases contributed to an increase in the degree of hydrolysis of subcellular structures, which was accompanied by a growth of the content of amino nitrogen by 2.7 times, free amino acids by 3.1 times, and low-molecular peptides (up to 500 Da) by 3.5 times (biological-3). The obtained biologicals were characterized by a high content of phosphorus and potassium. It was shown that the use of enzyme systems that catalyze the hydrolysis of intracellular polymers in yeast biomass allows us to obtain products with different biochemical and structural-fractional composition, which determines their properties.

Saccharomyces cerevisiae, enzymes, structural-fractional composition, functional ingredients

The work was carried out at the expense of the subsidy for the implementation of the State Task.
Antimicrobial Composition based on Highly Dispersed Zinc oxide and Ribavirin
Authors: Kienskaya K.I. , Belova I.A. , Sardushkin M.V. , Butorova I.A. , Kuskov A.N. , Ulybina O.V. , Guznova N.Yu.
Published: August 2020

Nanodispersions of zinc oxide with wedge-shaped and rod-shaped particles have been synthesized. The dependence of the antimicrobial activity of Zno particles on their size and shape was studied. It was found that rod-shaped particles have a higher antimicrobial activity against a number of test microorganisms. In addition to the antiviral, antibacterial activity of ribavirin was detected. The structure of the antimicrobial composition of a wide spectrum of action was proposed.

nanoparticles, zinc oxide, ribavirin, antimicrobial and antibacterial activity

The authors are deeply grateful to A.V. Bulycheva, Head of the Laboratory of Microbiology, Federal State Institution "IMTSEU AoSMP", Federal Service for Surveillance in Healthcare (Roszdravnadzor), and to A. Averyanova, student of the Mendeleev University, for her help in analyzing the ribavirin antimicrobial activity.

The work was supported by Mendeleev University of Chemical Technology of Russia. Project Number K-2020-024.
Ash depth filter sanitation eliminates all bacteria and makes source-separated urine waste sterile
Authors: Witty Michael , Copley Sarah , Dingra Nin N. , Al-Bahou Raja , Na Ayudhya Theppawut Israsena
Published: August 2020

Remote houses cannot use sewerage systems and so they must make their own arrangements for waste disposal. A solution is the use of ash depth filters which simultaneously trap nitrogen and phosphorus from human waste streams and all bacteria during long periods (750 ml per day for more than 6 weeks) of operation by filtration under gravity. Bacteria entering the filtration system, those trapped by the filter and the living material which eventually emerges if the system is operated till it eventually fails, are characterized. Reduction of bacterial numbers is achieved by two mechanisms: physical filtration and chemical sanitation.
O możliwości zastosowania teorii prawa Zygmunta Ziembińskiego w rozstrzyganiu problemów bioetycznych
Authors: Moniuszko Łukasz
Published: August 2020

The article looks at attempts to use the legal and moral concepts of Zygmunt Ziembiński in bioethical considerations. Assuming that law is determined by morality, an example of an unborn child is used to examine how these combined factors can be applied in bioethics. According to the author, the most interesting aspects are the proposals formulated by Ziembiński. In his opinion, the liberal theory of Ziembiński’s law, which expands on the views of Maria Ossowska and Czeslaw Znamierowski, deserves special attention. In summing up, the author comes to the conclusion that the concept of Ziembiński’s law can find universal application in bioethics, thanks to its more than subjective practical applicability.
Prawno-administracyjne aspekty bezpieczeństwa żywności i żywienia w Polsce
Authors: Jabłoński Maciej
Published: August 2020

Food safety and nutrition include the accumulation of concepts aimed at enforcing standards of hygiene and healthcare. In accordance with Polish and EU law, these very important issues lead to the functioning of the food market. From the ground up, compliance with environmental standards is assured at every stage.
Klausa Michaela Meyer-Abicha teoria odpowiedzialności
Authors: Selmaj-Pomaska Paulina
Published: August 2020

This article presents the K. M. Meyer-Abich theory of responsibility. It discusses the essence of human responsibility as it arises especially at times of ecological crises. The circle of responsibility should be so wide as to prevent anything from existing merely for the sake of human needs. K. M. Meyer-Abich’s theory focuses on eight periods of human development, which correspond to eight circles of responsibility referring to eight ethical conceptions. Throughout human history, we can see how the scope of responsibility has been increasing to fall upon more and more entities. The extension of the circle of responsibility moved from the individual to include family and friends, the nation, all peoples of the world, and humanity as a whole, including future generations. The final step was to look beyond the boundaries of humanity to include all life forms.
Etyczne warunki rezygnacji z uporczywej terapii
Authors: Bołoz Wojciech
Published: August 2020

Death is an inevitable phenomenon, but it can be experienced with dignity. For this reason, people are continually seeking decent ways to die. One of these is avoiding or moving away from so-called aggressive medical treatment if it doesn’t provide the dying with any therapeutic benefit and only generates costs and prolongs suffering. Consensual, inevitable death has been practiced in medicine since the time of Hippocrates, although at the same time we can see a tendency towards the opposite, uncompromising fight to the end. This trend is sometimes justified by the exceptional value of human life, which demands both the patient’s and doctor’s heroism. Since the Middle Ages, it has been a widely accepted practice to limit the care for human life to the use of so-called, ordinary, and proportionate remedies. The acceptance of this principle also means withdrawing futile therapy.
Role of procedures in environmental management system
Authors: Embros Grzegorz
Published: August 2020

In the paper, the author attempts to point out the meaning of procedures for the environmental management system (EMS). Particular attention is paid to form and content as well as to the functions, proprieties, and structure of the procedures. The analyses were carried out taking into account a systemic approach of the essential topics to the ISO 14001 standard. Based on the chosen procedure, some fundamental methods of elaborating upon and implementing the EMS procedures were outlined. It was also presented that procedures written in accordance with these rules might provide vital support to the improvement of the organization’s management systems and might optimize the processes in the areas they cover.
Zaranie, rozwój oraz perspektywy etyki środowiskowej – wybrane zagadnienia
Authors: Marek-Bieniasz Anna
Published: August 2020

The article is an attempt at presenting some aspects of the development of environmental ethics, i.e. the situation in which this discipline evolved, which is referred to as the ecological crisis. It presents the way in which this discipline was understood by its first representatives, their demands concerning both the ways in which it should be funded, and its further theoretical development. At the same time, the process of penetration of Albert Schweitzer's ethics of respect for life into the reflections of environmental ethicists is discussed. The author compares such ethics with the ethics of the most famous representative of this discipline in Poland, i.e. Henryk Skolimowski. The article also reveals some of the developmental trends of environmental ethics and lists its representatives. It also discusses the theses and assumptions of biocentric environmental ethics and draws attention to the prospects and the need for further development of this discipline.
Społeczno-religijne uwarunkowania wczesnej kultury chińskiej
Authors: Kierzkowski Karol
Published: August 2020

The claim that all living creatures constitute a wholeness in the world of nature is a primary thought of Chinese philosophy. It links both cosmological and anthropological motifs. Living creatures are interconnected and interdependent. The world of nature is tao. Tao is wholeness. The world of nature is in constant flux set by progressive cycles in which individual changes take place. When the world of nature remains stable, it reaches equilibrium. Life can develop in a harmonious way. Chinese anthropology treats the human as a microcosm of the world of nature. Man is an intermediary between Heaven and Earth and a descendant of the interpolating cosmic and earthly powers. An ideogram, found in China, presents the human figure as a tree rooted in the Earth, with hands outstretched like branches towards Heaven, deriving power from both above and below.
Możliwości zagospodarowania odpadu pofermentacyjnego z biogazowni
Authors: Marciniak Aneta
Published: August 2020

Currently, there is no harmonized approach across the EU to categorize digestate as a waste or a full-value product. Instruments such as the "End-of-Waste" (EoW) may enable its exclusion from the scope of the Waste Framework Directive. Digestate can be an attractive fertilizer and provide an additional source of income for producers, subsequently eliminating the costs of its disposal. According to current legislation and the status of the market in Poland, digestate is usually treated as a by-product requiring disposal and causing additional outlays for a company. This article presents the valid regulations concerning the possibilities of the agricultural application of digestate.
Biogaz jako alternatywny nośnik energii
Authors: Podeszwa Ewelina , Biernat Krzysztof
Published: August 2020

The advantages of biogas, apart from being just an alternative energy source, are its various possibilities of conversion. Chemical energy can be converted into biogas for heat, electricity and chemical energy of other compounds. Therefore, there are numerous opportunities for using energy from biogas. Some of them are used in stationary installations. Another application is as a fuel for vehicle engines by burning biomethane.
The importance of environmental education in preventative healthcare
Authors: Kowalski Ryszard , Grott Edward
Published: August 2020

Environmental education frequently referred to as ecological education, is commonly associated with the description and shaping of human relationships with the natural environment. It points to the examples of the anthropocentric transformation of nature and the consequences thereof. The deeper analysis leads to the conclusion that the existing emphasis on environmental education was on natural aspects while neglecting no less important social issues, including human health. !is article is devoted to demonstrating the interrelationships and dependencies of environmental education and preventive healthcare, from definition through to various activities and finally effects. !e article clearly promotes being active, highlighting the importance of being involved in the development of gardens, which are important both in terms of the protection of the natural environment, through the development and diversification of the landscape, and in the maintenance of the good physical and mental condition. In summary, the article puts forward the notion that is going through life, it is worthwhile to really care about one’s health and the natural environment, especially since one is dependent on the other.
The impact of experimental forest fire on collembolan communities
Authors: Olejniczak Izabella , Prędecka Anna , Russel Stefan
Published: August 2020

Our study was carried out in fresh pine mixed forest, Biala Forest, near Warsaw (52°59’ N, 21°46’ E and 52°79’ N, 21°89’ E, Eastern Poland). Three experimental plots, 1m2 size, were chosen at random and burnt in June. The material was collected: just after the experimental fire (in June ), 30, 60, and 90 days after fire (respectively: in July, August, and September). On every sampling occasion 10 soil samples of an area of 10cm2 and a depth of 5 cm were taken in each sampling plots: burnt plots, in the border of burnt plots, and in surroundings of burnt plots. We found that experimental fire influenced on collembolan densities (Kruskall-Wallis test, H=8.29, P=0.01). Just after the experimental fire we found no collembolans in burnt plots. In a period of 90 days following the experimental fire densities of springtails of burnt and surroundings were similar. Euedaphic springtails were the dominating group in burnt plots and contrary to the border of burnt plots and surroundings, we noticed no epigeic springtails. Contribution of epigeic, hemiedaphic and euedaphic species in collembolan communities of investigated areas could point to different defense strategies of these invertebrates. Immature individuals of Collembola were the most numerous in burnt plots and at the border of burnt plots and this phenomenon is probably crucial for the reconstruction of collembolan communities after the fire.
The values and principles of sustainable development in policy and legislation of the Republic of Poland
Authors: Wodzikowski Czesław
Published: August 2020

Sustainable development can be variously translated and understood. !is stems primarily from the fact that this idea is sometimes presented differently in the literature. The article concerns the axiological system of sustainable development, how to interpret the idea of development, and the principles that lie at its core. Therefore, the idea of sustainable development in Poland has the rank of constitutional principle, its genesis in state politics and in the Polish legislation was also discussed.
Serum Uric Acid and Progression of Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease: Results from the HALT PKD Trials
Authors: Brosnahan Godela M. , You Zhiying , Wang Wei , Gitomer Berenice Y. , Chonchol Michel
Published: August 2020

Background:

Epidemiological studies have suggested that elevated serum uric acid may
contribute to the progression of chronic kidney disease. However, no large prospective study has
examined whether hyperuricemia is an independent risk factor for the progression of autosomal
dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD).

Methods:

We measured uric acid in stored serum samples from the 2-year study visit of 671 participants
from the HALT PKD multicenter trials. Participants were categorized according to uric acid
tertiles. For Study A (participants aged 15-49 years with preserved kidney function, n=350), we
used linear mixed effects models to examine the association between uric acid and repeated measures
of height-adjusted total kidney volume (htTKV), the primary outcome for Study A. For
Study B (participants aged 18-64 with decreased kidney function, n=321), we used Cox proportional
hazards models to assess the hazard for the combined endpoint of 50% loss in estimated glomerular
filtration rate (eGFR), end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), or death, the primary outcome for
Study B. To assess the association of uric acid with the slope of eGFR decline (secondary outcome
of HALT A and B), we used linear mixed effects models for the combined population of Study A
and B.

Results:

In the unadjusted model, the annual change in htTKV was 2.7% higher in the highest uric
acid tertile compared to the lowest (p<0.001), but this difference became insignificant after adjustment
for gender. Men had faster TKV growth than women (p<0.001). There was no difference in
eGFR decline between the 3 uric acid tertiles. Hazard ratios for the clinical endpoint were 2.9 (95%
confidence interval, 1.9-4.4) and 1.8 (1.1-2.8) respectively in the high and medium uric acid groups
in unadjusted and partially adjusted models (p<0.001), but the significance was lost after adjustment
for baseline eGFR. Results were similar when uric acid was examined as a continuous variable.

Conclusion:

Elevated serum uric acid is not an independent risk factor for disease progression in ADPKD.
New Developments in Anti-Angiogenic Therapy of Cancer, Review and Update
Authors: Ghasemali Samaneh , Farajnia Safar , Barzegar Abolfazl , Rahmati-Yamchi Mohammad , Baghban Roghayyeh , Rahbarnia Leila , Nodeh Hamid R.Y.
Published: August 2020

Background:

Angiogenesis is one of the critical physiological processes, by which the new blood
vessels are generated from the pre-existing vessels in the early stage of vasculogenesis. While normal angiogenesis
is critical for development and tissue growth, pathologic angiogenesis is important for the growth and
spread of cancers by supplying nutrients and oxygen as well as providing a conduit for distant metastasis. In the
last two decades, angiogenesis has been the area of extensive researches, indicating antiangiogenic target therapy
as an effective strategy for cancer therapy. At present, this field has become a major avenue for research and
development of novel therapeutics.

Objective:

This review is dedicated to an updated review of the most prominent antiangiogenic agents, emphasizing
the novel advancements and their applications, in particular, in the fields of antibodies, peptides, vaccines,
endogenous inhibitors, Nanoparticles (NPs), antiangiogenic oligonucleotides and small molecules. Also,
the potential role of 3D microfluidic models as an affordable and time-saving tool for angiogenesis investigations
are discussed.

Methods:

Firstly, we collected and summarized new developments that have occurred in all review and research
articles in databases. Then, we used important keywords related to antiangiogenic target therapy and their applications
for retrieval of most relevant data.

Results:

This review is based on recent research and review articles and intended to cover all newly discovered
agents inhibiting tumor angiogenesis and in particular, VEGF.

Conclusion:

New research studies have shown that anti-angiogenesis agents especially, in the form of combination
therapy are effective in various cancers treatment.
Analysis of the Effect of Separate Collection on the Composition of Mixed Municipal Solid Waste in Italy
Authors: Calabrò Paolo S. , Pangallo Domenica
Published: August 2020

Separate collection of municipal solid waste (MSW) is mandatory in Italy, and an increasingly higher standard of efficiency is applied; in fact, the target value set by regulation is 65%.

In the last 20 years, separate collection efficiency increased from 9.4% with 80% national MSW landfilled, and only one region was over 25% separate collection to 58.1% with 22% national MSW landfilled and 12 of 20 regions over 55% separate collection. However, significant differences are present in the three Italian macro regions (North, Center and South).

This paper analyzes the composition of waste carried in most Italian regions to evaluate the effect of separate collection on the composition of mixed municipal solid waste (unsorted). Moreover, a regression analysis on the same data allows to assess this latter as a function of separate collection efficiency.
Elke Diel und Jens Tuider (Hrsg.): Haben Tiere Rechte?
Authors: Müller Nico
Published: August 2020

Rezension von Elke Diel und Jens Tuider (Hrsg.): Haben Tiere Rechte? Aspekte und Dimensionen der Mensch-Tier-Beziehung. Bonn, Bundeszentrale für Politische Bildung, 2019.
Estrategias para la inclusión en un Ambiente Virtual de Aprendizaje
Authors: Méndez María F.
Published: August 2020

En la educación actual, la exclusión en el sistema educativo sigue representando una amenaza para la población estudiantil. Al respecto, muchas entidades gubernamentales de orden mundial han implementado políticas para impactar el problema; sin embargo, por la proximidad con la población afectada, los agentes de la educación y la comunidad académica en general, tienen una mayor responsabilidad en el asunto. El proceso de enseñanza y aprendizaje en los ambientes virtuales de aprendizaje debe enfocarse en combatir la exclusión a través de estrategias que fomentan la participación, la interacción y el pensamiento crítico; todo lo anterior, en entornos que valoran la diversidad y que ven, en la diferencia, una oportunidad para la construcción social de una colectividad inclusiva.
DISEÑO DE UNA ESTRATEGIA PEDAGÓGICA CON USO DE TIC PARA POTENCIAR PENSAMIENTO CRÍTICO EN NIÑOS DE TRANSICIÓN
Authors: Alvarez Liliaba
Published: August 2020

Este estudio, como parte de un proceso investigativo macro, se centra en la determinación de factores metodológicos a atender en el diseño de una estrategia pedagógica con uso de TIC, para potenciar el pensamiento crítico en niños de transición; como fundamento para su futuro diseño e implementación. Se desarrolla bajo el enfoque cuantitativo, el diseño del estudio es pre- experimental y se apoya en la pedagogía experimental. Se concluye que las condiciones del contexto, los recursos TIC institucionales, una propuesta metodológico-pedagógica pertinente y el uso de TIC como herramienta de mediación; son elementos básicos para diseñar estrategias de este tipo.
Simulación Discreta Aplicada Al Proceso Productivo De Vestidos De Baño En Colombia
Authors: Echavarría Carlos M. , Piedrahíta Lis A. , Ramírez Daniela , Ceballos Yony F.
Published: August 2020

La simulación es una herramienta que permite modelar un gran número de sistemas de la vida cotidiana y proponer acciones de mejora a un bajo costo. Gracias a esto se ha aplicado en varios sectores disminuyendo costos y tiempos. En la producción de trajes de baño en una empresa reconocida del sector manufacturero se presentan cuellos de botella y por lo tanto, se construyó un modelo de simulación que permitiera analizar, proponer y evaluar alternativas para mejorar el proceso de confección, haciendo énfasis en el subproceso de decoración que según información histórica de la compañía, era donde se presentaban mayores demoras retrasando así los tiempos de entrega de producto terminado. Se inició con una descripción del proceso productivo, una toma de datos y visitas guiadas a la planta de trabajo. Posteriormente se elaboró un modelo de simulación del proceso de producción con el ánimo de evidenciar en el modelo propuesto la situación actual y de ahí, proponer diferentes escenarios y recomendaciones basados en las modificaciones económica y físicamente factibles para la empresa. Se concluye que se deben contratar dos nuevos empleados para solucionar el cuello de botella en el proceso de decorado y además se hacen un conjunto de sugerencias que pueden llevarse a cabo cuando la empresa decida ampliarse, dejando en la misma un modelo dinámico que puede cambiarse de forma simple en caso de ser requerido.
Una Revisión a las estrategias y actividades en clase bajo el enfoque de aprendizaje invertido
Authors: Sinisterra Rodríguez Mónica María
Published: August 2020

Superar el aburrimiento en clases y permitir una participación activa del estudiante es un objetivo educativo principal en especial en enfoques como el aprendizaje invertido (flipped classroom). Sin embargo, el éxito en la implementación de este enfoque queda supeditado al conjunto de actividades en el aula que el docente prepara previamente, las cuales deben permitir la motivación suficiente en el estudiante para que se produzca aprendizaje significativo. A través de una estrategia pedagógica tipo concurso utilizando la aplicación Anki se muestra cómo puede mejorarse la experiencia de aprendizaje a través de una actividad que conjuga colaboración, automotivación y demostración, elementos clave para un ambiente de aprendizaje significativo.
Technological Capabilities to Assess Digital Excellence in Hospitals in High Performing Health Care Systems: International eDelphi Exercise
Authors: Krasuska Marta , Williams Robin , Sheikh Aziz , Franklin Bryony Dean , Heeney Catherine , Lane Wendy , Mozaffar Hajar , Mason Kathy , Eason Sally , Hinder Susan , Dunscombe Rachel , Potts Henry W W , Cresswell Kathrin
Published: August 2020

Background

Hospitals worldwide are developing ambitious digital transformation programs as part of broader efforts to create digitally advanced health care systems. However, there is as yet no consensus on how best to characterize and assess digital excellence in hospitals.

Objective

Our aim was to develop an international agreement on a defined set of technological capabilities to assess digital excellence in hospitals.

Methods

We conducted a two-stage international modified electronic Delphi (eDelphi) consensus-building exercise, which included a qualitative analysis of free-text responses. In total, 31 international health informatics experts participated, representing clinical, academic, public, and vendor organizations.

Results

We identified 35 technological capabilities that indicate digital excellence in hospitals. These are divided into two categories: (a) capabilities within a hospital (n=20) and (b) capabilities enabling communication with other parts of the health and social care system, and with patients and carers (n=15). The analysis of free-text responses pointed to the importance of nontechnological aspects of digitally enabled change, including social and organizational factors. Examples included an institutional culture characterized by a willingness to transform established ways of working and openness to risk-taking. The availability of a range of skills within digitization teams, including technological, project management and business expertise, and availability of resources to support hospital staff, were also highlighted.

Conclusions

We have identified a set of criteria for assessing digital excellence in hospitals. Our findings highlight the need to broaden the focus from technical functionalities to wider digital transformation capabilities.