bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ABCG2 polymorphism, age and leukocyte count may contribute to oral mucositis in oncopediatric patients
Authors: Viana Filho José Maria Chagas , Coêlho Marina de Castro , Ribeiro Isabella Lima Arrais , Persuhn Darlene Camati , Valença Ana Maria Gondim , Oliveira Naila Francis Paulo de
Published: October 2021

Abstract The study investigated the relationship between genetic polymorphisms and the development of oral mucositis in pediatric patients undergoing chemotherapy involving methotrexate. A longitudinal study was conducted with 64 patients, and oral mucositis was evaluated by the modified Oral Assessment Guide, which aims to diagnose and classify oral mucositis. Epithelial cells were obtained by mouthwash and DNA was extracted. The polymorphisms MTHFR (rs1801133), DNMT3B (rs2424913), ABCC2 (rs717620), ABCG2 (rs2231137) and ABCG2 (rs2231142) were analyzed by PCR-RFLP method. Demographic, hematological and biochemical data were collected from medical records. Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS software adopting a p-value of 0.05. Male sex predominated (56.2%), and the mean age was 10.8 years (± 4.9). Oral mucositis affected 65.6% of the patients, of which 61.9% developed the severe form of the disease. For the ABCG2 gene (rs2231142), the rare A allele and CA genotype were more frequent in individuals with mucositis (p= 0.02; RR = 0.60; CI = 0.387 - 0.813). The severity of the disease was mainly observed in younger patients (median = 9 years; p=0.02). Patients with severe oral mucositis presented lower leukocytes count (median = 2.150 mm3) compared to patients with the mild/moderate form (median = 4.200 mm3; p=0.03). Female patients and each 10,000-platelet increase were protective factors against the onset of oral mucositis (p=0.02). It is concluded that rs2231142 polymorphism increases the likelihood of oral mucositis and younger patients and patients with low leukocytes counts are more likely to develop severe form.
Anaerobic co-digestion of swine manure and forage at two harvesting ages
Authors: Oliveira Juliana Dias de , Orrico Ana Carolina Amorim , Leite Brenda Kelly Viana , Schwingel Alice Watte , Orrico Junior Marco Antonio Previdelli , Avila Marcio Romeiro de , Machado Janaina Freire , Dias Amanda Maria Domingos Ferreira , Macena Isabelly Alencar , Santos Wellington dos
Published: October 2021

ABSTRACT: The co-digestion of swine manure with vegetable waste is an alternative that can increase the production of biogas and methane generated by the isolated digestion of manure. However, recommendations that are based on the best ratio between manure and forage, as well as the age of harvest, are still scarce in the literature. This study was conducted to evaluate inclusions (0, 25, 50, 75 and 100%) of the total solids (TS) of Elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum Schum) harvested at two ages medium age (MA) at 45 days of growth and advanced age (AA) at 90 days in co-digestion with swine manure, using an entirely randomized design in a 5x2 factorial scheme. Batch digesters were used and biogas production was monitored for 12 weeks. There was influence of forage age (P <0.05) on the degradation of solids and neutral detergent fiber, with higher values for the substrates containing MA forage. The highest CH4 yields were obtained by the substrates containing MA forage in the inclusion of 27.7 and 31.6%, being 253.7 and 222.2 L of CH4 per Kg of total or volatile solids. The age of the forages influenced the onset and persistence of biogas production, being advantageous only in the inclusion of 25% of MA forage. The AA forage inclusion is not recommended for co-digestion with swine manure.
Factors associated with the purchase of family farming products for national school feeding program in Minas Gerais in 2017, Brazil
Authors: Anjos Izabela Antunes dos , Lopes Filho José Divino , Horta Paula Martins
Published: October 2021

ABSTRACT: The National School Feeding Program (in abbreviated Portuguese: PNAE) states that ≥30% of the amount transferred by the National Fund for Education Development (in abbreviated Portuguese: FNDE) to the executing entities should be used to purchase products made from Family Farming (FF). This study aimed to identify the municipal characteristics associated with the compliance of the municipalities of Minas Gerais (MG) to this target in 2017. For this, data on municipal purchases of FF for the PNAE were obtained from the FNDE’s website. Sociodemographic, economic, and agricultural characteristics of the municipalities were associated with compliance to the PNAE’s goal. Approximately half (55.07%) of the municipalities complied with the FF purchase target, wherein carrying out programs or actions to encourage organic agriculture (29.8% vs. 22.6%, p=0.018) were associated with a greater compliance to this target, presenting the official rural union registration (76.4% vs. 68.8%, p=0.026) and the Municipal Inspection Service: (35.6% vs. 29.1%, p=0.048). Overall, a low compliance to the goal was observed in MG municipalities, and associations between certain agricultural management characteristics and goal fulfillment were evidenced.
Starch synthesis and gelatinization properties of potato tubers
Authors: Su Wang , Ye Guangji , Zhou Yun , Wang Jian
Published: October 2021

ABSTRACT: Biosynthesis is the only source of potato starch which is an important raw material for food processing, modified starch and biomass energy. However, it is not clear about the evolution of starch synthesis with tuber development in potato. The present study evaluated the differences of starch synthesis and gelatinization properties of potato tubers with different starch content. Relative to cultivars of medium and low starch content, cultivars of high starch content showed significantly higher SBEII gene expression, AGPase and SSS enzyme activity, and total starch content after middle stage of starch accumulation, and had smaller average starch granule size during whole process of tuber development, and had higher pasting temperature before late stages of tuber growth, and had lower pasting temperature after middle stage of starch accumulation. Path analysis showed that, after middle stage of starch accumulation, effects on starch gelatinization of cultivars with high, medium and low starch content represented starch synthesis enzyme activity > starch accumulation > starch granule distribution > starch synthesis enzyme gene expression, starch synthesis enzyme gene expression > starch synthesis enzyme activity > starch accumulation > starch granule distribution, starch synthesis enzyme gene expression > starch granule distribution > starch synthesis enzyme activity > starch accumulation, respectively. In the study, phases existed in the starch biosynthesis of potato tuber, and the starch quality and its formation process were different among varieties with different starch content. The findings might contribute to starch application and potato industries.
Interaction between the body condition score, gait, hindlimb conformation, and claw conformation in dairy cows in Aydin, Turkey
Authors: Akin Ibrahim , Bardakcioglu Husnu Erbay , Hayat Elvan , Ozturan Yalcin Alper , Kurt Omer
Published: October 2021

ABSTRACT: Breeding strategies aim to reduce lameness in dairies by using predictor traits to increase the selection of dairy cows. This study enhanced the present knowledge about association between the claw conformations (CC), hindlimb conformation (HiLC), gait, and body condition score (BCS) in dairy cows. A total of 166 lactating Holstein cows were enrolled in the study and scored for BCS, CC, HiLC, and gait. The abnormal HiLC group was statistically significant (P<0.001) to have more abnormal CC. Hock in (Hin) cows showed significance (P<0.001) with CC abnormalities. Cows with abnormal gait have less abnormal claw and limb conformation than normal cows (P=0.032). Lactation number (P=0.036) and abnormal HiLC (P<0.001) were significantly increased risk for CC. The present results might be useful for claw and hindlimb conformations, and breeding strategies of the herd.
Changes in chemical composition of cover crops residue during decomposition
Authors: Weiler Douglas Adams , Bastos Leonardo Mendes , Schirmann Janquieli , Aita Celso , Giacomini Sandro José
Published: October 2021

ABSTRACT: Crop residues decomposition are controlled by chemical tissue components. This study evaluated changes on plant tissue components, separated by the Van Soest partitioning method, during cover crop decomposition. The Van Soest soluble fraction was the first to be released from the crop residues, followed by cellulose and hemicellulose. Lignin was the crop residue component that suffered the least degradation, and for certain crop residue types, lignin degradation was not detected. The degradation of the main components of crop residues (soluble fraction, cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin) is determined by the chemical and structural composition of each fraction.
Spray chilling on carcass weight loss, and physicochemical and microbiological quality of beef cuts during storage
Authors: Prado Cristiano Sales , Lage Moacir Evandro , Souza Maria Izabel Amaral , Duarte Francine Oliveira Souza , Gebara Clarice , Nicolau Edmar Soares , Nunes Iolanda Aparecida , Oliveira Antônio Nonato de , Minafra-Rezende Cintia Silva
Published: October 2021

ABSTRACT: Different chilling treatments are used before meat storage. The effect of spray chilling (SC) on meat quality appears to vary. Here, we investigated the effects of SC on beef carcass weight loss and meat quality during subsequent storage. The 2-h SC program tested involved 180-s initial spraying, followed by 60-s spray cycles at 540-s intervals. Deboned chuck tender (IMPS 116B) beef cuts were vacuum-packaged and stored for up to 60 d. Purge and cooking losses, Warner-Bratzler shear force, meat colour [CIE L*, a*, b*], and microbiological quality were evaluated. SC reduced carcass weight loss (P<0.001) compared with conventional chilling. However, storage time affected the purge and cooking losses, and Warner-Bratzler shear force. CIE a* and b* values increased (P<0.05) after 30-d aging in both chilling treatments. Pronounced psychrotrophic growth was observed during storage after both treatments. In conclusion, SC can be used to reduce the economic losses associated with meat chilling, without affecting meat quality attributes.
El humor y la revisión del mito en la obra teatral Penelopeide de Patrizia Monaco*
Authors: Martín-Clavijo Milagro
Published: October 2021

Resumen En los últimos años la dramaturga italiana Patrizia Monaco se ha servido del humor para presentar al público una mirada diferente y crítica sobre varios mitos conectándolos con temáticas actuales de interés social. En este artículo se estudia la obra teatral Penelopeide (2008) teniendo en cuenta las características de la revisión del mito a través del humor propias de la edad postmoderna. De esta manera, se analiza el tratamiento irónico/paródico de lo heroico y la yuxtaposición de voces, espacios y tiempos para llegar a la construcción de una identidad femenina diferente, la de Penélope, que subvierte el pensamiento dominante y se presenta en primera persona.
Brazilian health professionals’ perception about the Baby-Led Weaning (BLW) method for complementary feeding: an exploratory study
Authors: Neves Felipe Silva , Romano Bruna Miranda , Campos Angélica Atala Lombelo , Pavam Camila Almeida , Oliveira Renata Maria Souza , Cândido Ana Paula Carlos , Pereira Netto Michele
Published: October 2021

Abstract Objective: To describe Brazilian health professionals’ perception about the Baby-Led Weaning (BLW) method use for complementary feeding. Methods: Cross-sectional, descriptive study including 458 health professionals graduated in Nursing, Speech Therapy, Medicine, Nutrition or Dentistry and working in Pediatrics, being directly or indirectly involved with pediatric nutrition. We used a convenience non-probability sampling. The questionnaire applied to participants addressed demographic characteristics, academic degree, workplace, knowledge about clinical practice and perceptions about the possible advantages of the BLW method. Results: Participants had a mean age of 34.5±8.5 years, 64.6% of them working in Southeast Brazil and 65.3% being nutritionists. Most participants reported being acquainted with the BLW method (82.0%). Regarding clinical practice, 38.3% mentioned having recommended the BLW some times, 37.5% often and 20.5% always. Most participants fully agreed that the BLW method could have advantages for babies, for example, having them more likely to share family meals, facilitating adaptation to food flavors and consistencies, enhancing chewing and favoring the development of motor skills. On the other hand, important disagreements were also expressed regarding the BLW convenience and the possibility to create less concerns or anxiety in parents. Conclusions: The BLW method reported as advantageous, but disagreements were also raised, probably because scientific evidences on the suject are scarse. Further investigation is needed so we can better understand the risks and benefits and health care professionals can feel effectively assisted to offer support and advice to parents and caretakers.
Congenital anomalies in Santa Catarina: case distribution and trends in 2010–2018
Authors: Vanassi Bruna Muraro , Parma Gabriel Cremona , Magalhaes Vivyane Santiago , Santos Augusto César Cardoso dos , Iser Betine Pinto Moehlecke
Published: October 2021

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the distribution of cases of congenital anomalies in the state of Santa Catarina by health macro-region, to determine the frequency according to maternal and neonatal variables, to estimate the related mortality, and the trends in the period 2010–2018. Methods: An ecological time-series study with secondary data on congenital anomalies and the sociodemographic and health variables of mothers and newborns living in Santa Catarina, from 2010 to 2018. For temporal trend analysis, generalized linear regression was performed using the Prais-Winsten method with robust variance. Results: The average prevalence of congenital anomalies in the period was 8.9 cases per 1,000 live births, being 9.4 cases by 1,000 live births in 2010 and, in 2018, 8.2/1,000. The trend remained stable in the analyzed period. The major malformations were musculoskeletal, hip, and foot malformations, with a proportion ≥30%. There was a higher prevalence of congenital anomalies in low birthweight, preterm, male livebirths with Apgar≤7, born by cesarean section, mothers of older age (≥40 years), and less educated (less than eight years of study). Infant mortality due to congenital malformations was 2.6 deaths/1,000 live births, representing about 25.8% of the total infant deaths in the period. Conclusions: The frequency of congenital anomalies and the mortality with anomalies was stable in the studied period in Santa Catarina. The presence of anomalies was associated with low birth weight, prematurity, and low Apgar score. The highest proportion of congenital anomalies was in the musculoskeletal system.
Clinical characteristics of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children and adolescents: association with quality of life and behavioral aspects
Authors: Oliveira Marcone de Souza , Marinho Mayke Felipe Dias , Lemos Stela Maris Aguiar
Published: October 2021

Abstract Objective: To identify associations between clinical characteristics of children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and their sociodemographic aspects, quality of life, and results from the strengths and difficulties questionnaire. Methods: This is an observational analytical cross-sectional study with a non-probabilistic sample consisting of 72 children diagnosed with ADHD, aged 6 to 13 years, treated at 2 neuropediatric outpatient clinics. The instruments used were the Multimodal Treatment Study of Children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder – Swanson, Nolan, and Pelham, version IV (MTA-SNAP-IV), the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), the Brazilian Economic Classification Criteria (CCEB), and the Quality of Life Assessment Scale for Children and Adolescents (AUQEI). We performed descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate analyses, considering a 5% significance level. Results: SDQ results were associated with abnormal MTA-SNAP-IV results (inattentive/hyperactive/combined). A 1-point increment in the SDQ score increased by 36.5% the likelihood of the child having an abnormal MTA-SNAP-IV classification. Regarding AUQEI, 30.6% of participants perceived their quality of life as poor and 69.4% as good. Conclusions: A higher SDQ score increased the child's chance of having an abnormal MTA-SNAP-IV result.
Factors associated with the consumption of ultra-processed food by Brazilian adolescents: National Survey of School Health, 2015
Authors: Silva Janiquelli Barbosa , Elias Bianca Caroline , Warkentin Sarah , Mais Laís Amaral , Konstantyner Tulio
Published: October 2021

ABSTRACT Objective: To identify the prevalence and factors associated with the consumption of ultra-processed foods by Brazilian adolescents. Methods: The sample was representative of adolescents and participants in the cross-sectional population-based study National Survey of School Health, 2015 edition (PeNSE-2015). A self-administered questionnaire was used for data collection. The variable weekly consumption of ultra-processed foods was considered, and consumption more than seven times a week was considered excessive. Descriptive and inferential analyses of demographic, socioeconomic, behavioral and environmental characteristics potentially associated with the outcome were performed. Poisson's multiple regression model was adjusted to control for confounding factors. Results: The prevalence of excessive consumption of ultra-processed foods among 16,324 adolescents in Brazil was 75.4%. Nine factors independently associated with this outcome were identified: age under 15 years (RR 1.08; p<0.001), daily sitting time greater than four hours (RR 1.13; p<0.001), eating while watching TV or studying more than four days a week (RR 1.09; p<0.001), daily TV time greater than three hours (RR 1.08; p<0.001), breakfast frequency less than four days a week (RR 1,03; p=0.001), having a cell phone (RR 1.12; p<0.001), absent maternal education (RR 0.88; p<0.001), being enrolled in a private school (RR 1.05; p=0.002) located in the urban area (RR 1.13; p=0.002). Conclusions: The results express the multifactorial characteristic of excessive consumption of ultra-processed foods and suggest the need for the development and implementation of health policies to guide the consumption of these foods and the importance of adopting healthy behaviors for this population group in both school and home environments.
Social isolation and its impact on child and adolescent development: a systematic review
Authors: Almeida Isabelle Lina de Laia , Rego Jaqueline Ferraz , Teixeira Amanda Carvalho Girardi , Moreira Marília Rodrigues
Published: October 2021

ABSTRACT Objective: This study aims to analyze the effects of social isolation on children's and teenagers’ development, with emphasis on the possible impacts over their physical and mental health. Data source: Review of the literature following the standards of PRISMA using the SciELO, LILACS and PubMed databases. The following key-words were used: “social isolation” and “child development”, “quarantine” and “adolescent development” according to the Medical Subject Headings (MESH) and their translation to the Portuguese. Studies in English, Portuguese and Spanish from inception were included. Data synthesis: 519 studies were screened and 12 were included in the systematic review. Five of those focused the psychology and social issues, two of them the effects of pandemics on these issues; four studies reported on impacts on general health and two consequences over the hypothalamus- hypophysis - adrenal axis and the cognitive and social development. Conclusions: The review shows a strong association between social isolation and anxiety and depression in children and adolescents. Social isolation leads to higher levels of cortisol and worse cognitive development. Therefore, the mental and physical health of children and adolescents need a careful follow up by health professionals during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Early neonatal sepsis: prevalence, complications and outcomes in newborns with 35 weeks of gestational age or more
Authors: Camargo Juliana Fernandes de , Caldas Jamil Pedro de Siqueira , Marba Sérgio Tadeu Martins
Published: October 2021

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze the incidence, complications, and hospital discharge status in newborns with ≥35 weeks of gestational age with early neonatal sepsis. Methods: This is a cross-sectional, retrospective study. Cases of early-onset sepsis registered from January 2016 to December 2019 in neonates with gestational age of 35 weeks or more were reviewed in a level III neonatal unit. The diagnoses were performed based on the criteria by the Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency (Anvisa), and the episodes were classified according to microbiological classification and site of infection. The following complications were evaluated: shock, coagulation disorders, and sequelae of the central nervous system. The conditions at hospital discharge were also assessed. The collected data were analyzed with the descriptive analysis. Results: In the period, early neonatal sepsis occurred in 46 newborns, corresponding to 1.8% of all newborns admitted to the neonatal unit, with a prevalence of 4/1,000 live births. Culture confirmed sepsis ocurred in three patients (0.3/1,000 live births), with the following agents: S. pneumoniae, S. epidermidis and S. agalactiae. As to site of infection, there were 35 cases of primary bloodstream infection, seven cases of pneumonia and four cases of meningitis. Most patients (78.3%) had at least one risk factor for sepsis, and all were symptomatic at admission. There were no deaths. Complications occurred in 28.2% of the cases, especially shock (10 cases – 21.7%). Conclusions: The prevalence of proven early neonatal sepsis was low. Despite the common occurrence of complications, there were no deaths.
Nutritional deviations in children: comparative analysis of data from the food and nutrition surveillance system and those obtained by anthropometrists
Authors: Pedraza Dixis Figueroa
Published: October 2021

ABSTRACT Objective: To compare the prevalence rates of nutritional deviations in children under five years of age according to data from the Food and Nutrition Surveillance System (Sistema de Vigilância Alimentar e Nutricional — SISVAN) and those obtained by trained anthropometrists. Methods: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study based on data from 10 municipalities and 2 sources: i) SISVAN Web (secondary database) and ii) an investigation that evaluated the implementation of food and nutrition actions in the Family Health Strategy in the state of Paraíba (primary database), with 24,137 and 897 individuals, respectively. Proportions of overweight — according to weight/age (W/A), weight/height (W/H), and body mass index/age (BMI/A) — and stunting — according to the height/age (H/A) index — based on classifications of SISVAN Web and those obtained by trained anthropometrists were compared using the two-proportion Z-test. Results: Frequencies of overweight, according to W/A (10.0 vs. 7.8%), W/H (17.2 vs. 14.3%), and BMI/A (18.1 vs. 14.4%), as well as stunting (12.3 vs. 8.6%), were higher on data from SISVAN Web than on those obtained by trained anthropometrists, and the differences were significant. Conclusions: The findings point to distortions in the nutritional classification of children under five years of age monitored by SISVAN Web.
Strength parameter selection framework for evaluating the design life of clay cut slopes
Authors: Postill Harry , Helm Peter R. , Dixon Neil , El-Hamalawi Ashraf , Glendinning Stephanie , Take W. Andy
Published: October 2021

The design of engineered earthworks is predominantly conducted through limit equilibrium analysis, requiring strain-independent strength criteria. Previous studies on deep-seated first-time failures within over-consolidated clay cut slopes have proposed the use of fully softened strength parameters for design. A study investigating shallow first-time failures in clay cut slopes due to seasonal stress cycles was undertaken using a validated numerical model capable of capturing seasonal ratcheting and progressive failure. It was found that fully softened strength criteria are inappropriate for the assessment of shallow first-time failures due to seasonal ratcheting and slopes at angles between the material's fully softened and residual friction angle may be at risk of failure in the future due to this behaviour. However, adopting residual strength parameters will likely result in overly conservative solutions considering the required design life of geotechnical assets. It was found that the strain-softening behaviour of clay defines the rate of strength deterioration and the operational life of engineered slopes. While general guidelines for analysis considering shallow first-time failures in clay cut slopes are provided, detailed understanding of a material's strain-softening behaviour, the magnitude and rate of strength reduction with strains, is needed to establish strength criteria for limit equilibrium analysis.
2D and 3D simulations of static response of a geosynthetic reinforced soil bridge abutment
Authors: Zheng Y. , Guo W. , Fox P. J. , McCartney J. S.
Published: October 2021

This paper presents two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) numerical simulations of a half-scale geosynthetic reinforced soil (GRS) bridge abutment during construction and bridge load application. The backfill soil was characterized using a nonlinear elastoplastic model that incorporates a hyperbolic stress–strain relationship and the Mohr–Coulomb failure criterion. Geogrid reinforcements were characterized using linearly elastic elements with orthotropic behavior. Various interfaces were included to simulate the interaction between the abutment components. Results from the 2D and 3D simulations were compared with physical model test measurements from the longitudinal and transverse sections of a GRS bridge abutment. Facing displacements and bridge seat settlements for the 2D and 3D simulations agree well with measured values, with the 2D-simulated values larger than the 3D-simulated values due to boundary condition effects. Results from the 3D simulation are in reasonable agreement with measurements from the longitudinal and transverse sections. The 2D simulation can also reasonably capture the static response of GRS bridge abutments and is generally more conservative than the 3D simulation.
Full-scale tests on laterally loaded railway overhead line equipment mast foundations
Authors: Richards David J. , Powrie William , Blake Anthony P.
Published: October 2021

Pile foundations for masts supporting overhead line equipment (OLE) on railways in Western Europe have traditionally been designed using empirical formulae derived from tests carried out in the 1950s under the auspices of the Union Internationale des Chemins de fer (UIC). Recent application in the UK of ostensibly more analytical approaches led to significantly increased pile lengths, which contributed to the high-profile cost over-run on the Great Western electrification programme. Further, the loads associated with some newer designs of mast are greater than those covered by the original field tests, and hence are outside the evidence base for the empirical approach. To address this, full-scale field tests were carried out on three, 610 mm dia. circular hollow-section steel piles installed in a railway embankment at the High Marnham test track (Nottinghamshire, UK). Each pile was designed according to the empirical OLE master index (OLEMI) method for a different form of modern OLE mast, and instrumented using Shape accelerometer arrays (SAAs) to determine pile deformations. The results provide valuable insights into the mechanisms of deformation of piles of different lengths, both at and beyond the expected in-service loads. p–y curves derived from the SAA measurements compare reasonably well with curves constructed using the American Petroleum Institute method for undrained clay soils. The tests also demonstrate the suitability of the OLEMI approach for large structures and loads; and that the Eurocode 7 partial factors on load and undrained shear strength applied to an undrained (total stress) limit equilibrium calculation are likely to be sufficient to meet serviceability requirements for standard single-and twin-track cantilever structures.
Multislice Computed Tomography Angiography, B-Type Natriuretic Peptide and Calcium Score in Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: ÖZBEK Özlem , CAYMAZ Hüseyin Oğuz
Published: October 2021

Objective: The purpose of this study is to look into the relationship between coronary artery disease evaluated with multislice computed tomography (MSCT) findings and B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and calcium score (CaS).
Material and Method: The study included 83 patients who were administered to our center and who had asymptomatic and stable angina pectoris. Blood samples were collected for BNP testing, and the Abbott AxSYM System kit was used for measurements. Calcium scoring was performed on each of the four main coronary arteries, and the total “Agatston” score was calculated for each patient by summing up the results. MSCT angiograms were studied at the three-dimensional operating base.
Results: Coronary artery disease (CAD) was found in 51 (61.4%) patients, while the coronary arteries of 32 (38.6%) patients were deemed normal. Single-vessel involvement was detected in 17 (20.5%) patients, two-vessel involvement in 18 (21.7%) patients, and three-vessel involvement in 16 (19.3%) patients. While patients with CAD had a median BNP of 33.9 (0–834), those without CAD had a median of 19.2 (0–185), which was statistically significant (p=0.011). Furthermore, there was a positive correlation between the number of vessels involved and BNP (r = 0.364, p=0.001). BNP levels were found to be significantly higher in hypertensive patients (p=0.008). The CaS and BNP median of the group with three-vessel involvement were significantly higher (p < 0.001 and p=0.007, respectively).
Conclusion: As a result, high CaS and BNP levels were discovered to be a marker for the presence and severity of CAD.
Regional Industrial Development: Review of Approaches to Regulation and Determining of Priorities
Authors: Akberdina Victoria V. , Romanova Olga A.
Published: October 2021

In the context of increasing economic and political risks, industry is a reliable guarantor of sovereignty of any country that ensures a decent standard of living for its population. The paper examines current global trends of industrial transformation and its regional aspects. The study aims to systematise scientific approaches to determining regional priorities, mechanisms of industrial development and criteria for optimal spatial location, as the evolution of the industrial system leads to their changes. A method of systematic literature review (SLR) was applied based on the analysis of publications relevant to the research purpose and objectives. Modern scientific literature has developed a whole range of concepts to characterise the existing industrial processes: the fourth industrial revolution, Industry 4.0, digital transformation of industry and new industrialisation. The analysis of publications has shown that these concepts are often mixed, thus, this research presented their definitions, areas of intersection and differences. Additionally, the study discusses approaches to regional industrial development and spatial location of industries, which were formulated in the scientific literature in the period 2011– 2021. Three concepts revealing regional aspects of modern industrial development — regional industrial path development, «smart» specialisation and regional industrial identity — were critically analysed. The review of foreign and Russian publications can be used to substantiate niche segments of regional industrial research. The paper identified the following study areas: development of methods for choosing a new industrial path; justification of regional priorities according to “smart” specialisation; creation of effective mechanisms for implementing regional industrial and innovation policies; analysis of correlations between cluster configurations and regional innovation activity.
Meta-regression Analysis of Technical (In)Efficiency in Agriculture: a Regional Approach
Authors: dos Santos Micael Queiroga , Marta-Costa Ana Alexandra , Rodríguez Xosé Antón
Published: October 2021

While scientific studies have not reached a consensus on the methodology for examining Technical Efficiency (or Inefficiency), the influence of regions appears to be important for efficiency scores. Therefore, this research aims to investigate the empirical procedures for the achievement of more robust results in the analysis of productive efficiency, as well as to evaluate the effect of the location of farms on such efficiency. The goal was to check whether the most developed regions are the most efficient. Meta-regression analysis provides an adequate method for an accurate assessment of both situations. This technique was applied based on a database of 166 observations on the agricultural sector from countries around the world, published in the period 2010–2017. The criteria used for the database collection and for the conceived model were not previously used and, thereby, enrich the discussion on the topic. The procedure aims to check the variation in the Mean of Technical Inefficiency and conduct an analysis using Quasi-Maximum Likelihood Estimation. The regressions showed that the Mean of Technical Inefficiency could be mainly explained by data, variables, employed empirical models and the region of study. The studies that focus on farms of developed countries present the lowest Mean of Technical Inefficiency, while studies for developing or low-income countries exhibit the opposite. Therefore, for future research on productive analysis, we suggest empirical procedures aimed at achieving robust results that take into account specific regional characteristics of farms.
Should South Africa Criminalise Ukuthwala Leading to Forced Marriages and Child Marriages?
Authors: Mwambene Lea , Mgidlana Roberta Hlalisa
Published: October 2021

In 2014 the South African Law Reform Commission (SALRC)released a Discussion Paper on the practice of ukuthwala. TheDiscussion paper was revised and released again in 2015 toinclude public consultations and the proposed Prohibition ofForced Marriages and Child Marriages Bill (Prohibition Bill). TheProhibition Bill introduces an expanded crime of forcedmarriages and child marriages, including because of ukuthwala.In view of the SALRC's proposed Prohibition Bill, this paperinvestigates whether South Africa should criminalise ukuthwalaor not. The paper also examines the advantages anddisadvantages of criminalising breaches of ukuthwala in theprotection of women and girls affected by the practice by drawingupon the field research findings from the community where theS v Jezile 2015 2 SACR 452 (WCC) case originated. Amongother findings, the field research show that the practice ofukuthwala is deeply rooted in the communities where it is stillprevalent to the extent that the approach taken by the ProhibitionBill, expecting the victims to report their own parents or familymembers to law enforcement agents, might force the practice togo underground. Ultimately, we suspect that this might make itmore difficult to protect women and children's rights violationsassociated with ukuthwala. We therefore recommend that toeffectively address the malpractices surrounding ukuthwala, theprocess of law reform look at the elements of ukuthwala, theprocedure that is followed, appreciate the cultural significance ofthe practice, as well as understand the merits and demerits ofthe customary delictual claims that are already used bycommunities where processes of the practice have beenbreached. In this way, communities will be more receptive to anygovernment's efforts that are aimed at addressing forced andchild marriages linked to ukuthwala. In addition, we submit thatunless government prioritises awareness campaigns into thecommunities that are going to be affected by the proposed lawreform, such law, will again be what Himonga calls "paper law".
Cyanobacteria Yolk-Shell Preparation v2
Authors: Fernández Méndez Jorge , Martin Morales Celia
Published: October 2021

Cyanobacteria as well as other photosynthetic microorganisms can be encapsulated within biohybrid nanomaterials. Cyanobacterial Yolk-shell are biohybrid nanostructures with a size of 1 to 6 µm, where the cell is encapsulated within a non-contacting silica nanocapsule. Yolk-shell encapsulation provides long-term cell viability, higher resistance against harsh environments and superior photosynthetic activiy. In addition, engineering the colloidal packing allows tunable shell-pore diameter for size-dependent permeability and introduction of new functionalities for specific molecular recognition. Yolk-Shell structures can be easily synthetized via self-assebly of colloidal suspensions of silica nanoparticles as described in this protocol
SHIFTING GROUNDS: THE ARCHAEOLOGICAL PRACTICE IN THE AGE OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY
Authors:   Lund University, Dell’Unto Nicoló
Published: October 2021

In the last decade, 3D visualisation has seen a strong diffusion in the cultural heritage sector. The development of more efficient computers, the distribution of friendly user interfaces, and the spread of new sensors for recording and visualising information were pivotal for exploring 3D visualisation technology to support advanced interaction and promote new investigation methods. Since the early 1990s, 3D visualisation was conceived as a dynamic tool for increasing the perception of the archaeological material (Reilly 1991), and 3D models were considered an effective solution for addressing complex questions and revising different hypotheses
ACTING IN DIGITAL CULTURAL HERITAGE APPLICATIONS
Authors:   Sarajevo Film Academy, Alispahić Selma , Rizvić Selma ,   University of Sarajevo
Published: October 2021

Digital technologies offer a new way to communicate and experience cultural heritage. It is now becoming possible to virtually recreate the original appearance of cultural monuments and enable the users to take virtual walks exploring interactive 3D models of objects preserved only in remains. Virtual Reality (VR) is a technology that transfers the users to a different place and time through devices called Head Mounted Displays (HMD) and enables a total immersion in another reality.
Music in Advertisement on Social Media Platforms Towards Malaysian Young Consumers’ Decision Making to Purchase
Authors:   Universiti Utara Malaysia, Mahsal Khan Syazwani , Abdul Hamid Norsiah ,   Universiti Utara Malaysia, Mohd Rashid Sabrina ,   Universiti Utara Malaysia
Published: October 2021

Advertising is a type of paid media in which people can promote their products and services through mainstream or social media platforms. It turns out to be progressively mainstream as more individuals who are dealing with their own businesses and organisations go to publicising as a stage to get their products or services known by their own consumers. The purpose of this study is to explore how information processing of music affects young consumers’ decision making in social media advertisements. The Elaboration Likelihood Model (ELM) is chosen as a framework to explore how information processed from music influences young consumer’s decision making process. The methodology utilised in this study was in-depth interviews with experts based on snowball sampling. The experts comprise of academicians, advertising professionals and musicians. Semi-structured interview questions were applied in this study. Then, thematic analysis uncovers two emerging themes: consumers’ preferences of products and consumers’ motivation on spending. The findings of this study revealed that information processed from music on advertisements, available on social media platforms, can affect young consumer’s decision making to purchase. This study contributed to our understanding that music used in an advertisement, and in this case on social media, can influence young consumers to develop preference towards the advertised product. This is a subtle approach to influence their decision to purchase products in the future. As a result, they are more likely to engage with upcoming product advertisements. Keywords: Social media advertising, information processing, elaboration likelihood model (ELM), music, decision making.
Covid-19 on Online News Media: A Discourse Analysis of Indonesian Government Crisis Management on Kompas.com
Authors:   Universitas Pembangunan Nasional Veteran Yogyakarta, Fatonah Siti ,   Universitas Pembangunan Nasional Veteran Yogyakarta, Shafira Jeihan ,   Universitas Pembangunan Nasional Veteran Yogyakarta
Published: October 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic in Indonesia had attracted debate over how the Government dealt with this crisis. Since the beginning of the pandemic, the Government has denied the spread of Covid-19 in Indonesia, although several cases were found in neighbouring countries. This research aims to analyse how the Indonesian Government handles the pandemic, based on news published online. Further, the research looked at the levels of text, social cognition, and social context of the relevant news in Kompas.com. The research method used was Teun van Dijk's Critical Discourse Analysis. The research result shows that Kompas.com presented the issue succinctly and criticised how the Indonesian Government handled the pandemic. The discourse built was that the Jokowi government was not ready to deal with the pandemic. The Government tended to ignore inputs from academics, research results, and other parties. Kompas.com sought to uncover the Government's initial response to the pandemic and subsequent policies. Further, the Government issued policies that were unclear, not firm, and constantly changing. Kompas.com positioned itself as a media that always presented news objectively, intact, independent perspective, unbiased by various political, economic, and power interests. The substance of this study contributes in the form of new policy recommendations for the heads of online media news editors on how to deliver news to the public in an open, straightforward, and critical manner that prioritises social responsibility. Keywords: Covid-19, critical discourse analysis, online news media, Kompas.com, Jokowi administration.
Online Promotion of Private Hospital Promoting Medical Tourism: A Multimodal Analysis from A Cultural Perspective
Authors:   Universiti Utara Malaysia, Wan Abdul Halim Wan Fatimah Solihah , Zainudin Intan Safinaz ,   Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Mohd Nor Nor Fariza ,   Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia
Published: October 2021

The medical tourism industry, which was seriously affected by the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19), needs to give attention to its online promotional message strategy to boost the industry. Cultural variability is also crucial since the market for the medical tourism industry is global. However, studies involving cultural variability have only focused on examining single discourse mode, mainly the linguistic mode and overlooked the multimodal perspective. This study, therefore, examined the way in which the Prince Court Medical Centre (PCMC), a private hospital in Malaysia is presented and how the various modes in the hospital's website are combined to deliver promotional messages to international medical tourists. A total of three web pages from the website of PCMC were analysed using the Systemic Functional Theory framework. This study employed Halliday’s metafunction theory (for language analysis and Kress and van Leeuwen’s model for image analysis. The ways in which the multimodal features of the website reflect communicative style from the cultural perspective were also explored. Hall’s (2000) cultural dimension of context dependency which classifies cultures into high-context and low-context cultures was used to present the analysis. The findings revealed that PCMC’s hospital website has elements that are mainly encountered in low-context cultures such as elaborated code systems as well as direct, explicit, and highly structured messages. The findings help create awareness of communicative strategies in designing medical tourism websites that involve meaning making through texts and images and the possible cultural interpretation especially among copywriters, website designers or medical tourism stakeholders. Keywords: Multimodal analysis, systemic functional theory (SFT), cultural context dimension, online promotional discourse, medical tourism.
Papua’s Internet Ban 2020: Politics, Information Democracy, and Digital Literacy
Authors:   Universitas Sebelas Maret, Indonesia, Siagian Muhnizar , Yuliarti Monika Sri ,   Universitas Sebelas Maret, Indonesia
Published: October 2021

Internet ban in the middle of 2019 in Papua after the outbreaks of demonstrations and riots in Papua and West Papua, still leaves various speculations and question marks. The court ruling which had won the lawsuit of the Press Freedom Defender Team against the President and the Minister of Communication and Information of Indonesia also seemed to pass by without any significant follow up. Many studies on this phenomenon in terms of law and human rights have been carried out. However, several other aspects that are also interesting and useful have not been much elaborated. This paper explores this phenomenon based on political aspects, information democracy, and digital literacy that is closely related to communication. This is a literature review that employs document study data collection techniques and interactive data analysis. From the analysis it can be found that the Papua’s internet ban relates to the effort by the Indonesian government to domesticate Papua issue in the context of politics. In terms of information democracy, there is a violation in citizen rights that intend to internationalize the issue. Finally, in the context of digital literacy, there is a need to collaborate in order to improve digital literacy skills among Papuan. The implication of this study is the richer perspective in viewing a controversial phenomenon and involves the wider community, considering that this phenomenon is very likely to still occur in Indonesia in the future. Keywords: Internet ban, Papua, information democracy, digital literacy, political aspect.
THE AMERICAN HEGEMONY BETWEEN THE RISE OF NEO-PROTECTIONISM AND LIBERAL ECONOMIC ORDER
Authors: Dilek Şerif , Ayar-dilek İrem
Published: October 2021

The rise of protectionism against the economic liberal order is a much-debated issue which is also associated with the debates on the future of the liberal order. This paper argues that Trump’s economic protectionism is temporary and aims to strengthen the economic capacity of the United States rather than destroying the liberal economic order. As the USA ensures about the future of its hegemony and make himself the most beneficiary state, there can be less intervention to the functioning of the economic order. In doing this, he uses all power instruments of a hegemon which are material capability, institutions, and discourses. Trump aims to materially strengthen US position, and he supports this position with reorganized institutions and discourses within the liberal order. It is considered that reorganizing rules of institutions and creating a new language against the potential rivals is the most cost-effective way to preserve the global position of the United States.