bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Toxoplasmosis infection among pregnant women in Africa: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Dasa Tamirat Tesfaye , Geta Teshome Gensa , Yalew Ayalnesh Zemene , Abebe Rahel Mezemir , Kele Henna Umer
Published: July 2021

The epidemiology of toxoplasmosis in pregnancy is a major issue in public health. Toxoplasmosis is caused by the protozoan parasite. Toxoplasma parasite is at high risk for life-threatening diseases during pregnancy. Congenital toxoplasmosis results from a maternal infection acquired during gestation. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis was aimed to determine the seropositive prevalence of toxoplasmosis infection among pregnant women who attended antenatal care in a health facility in Africa. A systematic review and meta-analysis of published and unpublished studies were included. Databases such as MEDLINE, PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, Web of Science, African Journals Online were used with relevant search terms. The quality of the articles was critically evaluated using the tool of the Joanna Briggs Institute. Data were extracted on Microsoft word 2016. Meta-analysis was conducted using STATA 14 software. The heterogeneity and publication bias were assessed using the I2 statistics and Egger’s test, respectively. Forest plots were used to present the pooled prevalence and odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval of meta-analysis using the random effect model. In total, 23 studies comprising 7,579 pregnant women across ten countries in Africa were included in this meta-analysis. The overall prevalence of seropositive toxoplasmosis among pregnant women in Africa was 51.01% (95% CI; 37.66, 64.34). The heterogeneity test showed that heterogeneity was high, I2 = 99.6%, P-value < 0.001. The variables responsible for the source of heterogeneity were included from Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Ethiopia. Overall prevalence of toxoplasmosis in Africa showed that more than one-half of pregnant women were infected. The risk of acquiring toxoplasmosis infection during pregnancy is high; hence, preventive measures to avoid exposure of pregnant women to Toxoplasma infection should be strictly applied.
Relative sensitivity of anterior nares and nasopharyngeal swabs for initial detection of SARS-CoV-2 in ambulatory patients: Rapid review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhou Yaolin , O’Leary Timothy J.
Published: July 2021

Nasopharyngeal (NP) swabs are considered “gold standard” for diagnosing SARS-CoV-2 infections, but anterior nares or mid-turbinate swabs (nasal swabs) are often used. We performed a meta-analysis comparing the sensitivity of nasal and nasopharyngeal swabs against a composite reference standard for the initial diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection in ambulatory patients. The study is registered on PROSPERO (CRD42020221827). Data sources included studies appearing between January 1, 2020 and March 20, 2021, identified by searches of PubMed, medRxiv and bioRxiv. Studies included at least 20 subjects who simultaneously provided nasal and nasopharyngeal specimens for reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction testing, and for which confusion matrices could be constructed. Authors individually assessed studies for inclusion and compared assessments. Each author independently extracted all data elements; differences were reconciled by review of initial data sources. Extracted data included specimen site, patient characteristics, collection site, and confusion matrices comparing results for nasal and nasopharyngeal swabs. Assessed against a composite reference standard, anterior nares swabs are less sensitive (82% - 88%) than nasopharyngeal swabs (98%). For populations with 10% specimen positivity, the negative predictive values of all swab types were greater than 98%. Mid-turbinate and anterior nares swabs seem to perform similarly. The lower sensitivity associated with nasal swab SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis is justified by the ability to screen more patients and reduced personal protective equipment requirements. Our conclusions are limited by the small number of studies and the significant heterogeneity of study designs and study outcomes.
Development of an HPTLC-based dynamic reference standard for the analysis of complex natural products using Jarrah honey as test sample
Authors: Islam Md Khairul , Sostaric Tomislav , Lim Lee Yong , Hammer Katherine , Locher Cornelia
Published: July 2021

In this paper, we describe a novel approach to the development of a reference standard for the quality control of complex natural products, which will assist in the assessment of their authenticity and purity. The proposed method provides a template for the selection of samples, which can be pooled to obtain a reference standard. A shortfall of such an approach is, however, that the pooled sample is static in nature and therefore unable to capture difference in processing conditions or natural variations triggered by geographical or climatic impacts over time. To address this, the paper also outlines the development of a dynamic reference standard, which allows for ongoing adjustments to future variations. The method employs High-Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) derived extract profiles processed by multivariate analysis. The development of the dynamic reference standard is illustrated using honey, a complex natural matrix, as an example.
Improved delivery of broadly neutralizing antibodies by nanocapsules suppresses SHIV infection in the CNS of infant rhesus macaques
Authors: Wen Jing , Cheever Tracy , Wang Lan , Wu Di , Reed Jason , Mascola John , Chen Xuejun , Liu Cuiping , Pegu Amarendra , Sacha Jonah B. , Lu Yunfeng , Haigwood Nancy L. , Chen Irvin S. Y.
Published: July 2021

Broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) directed to HIV-1 have shown promise at suppressing viremia in animal models. However, the use of bNAbs for the central nervous system (CNS) infection is confounded by poor penetration of the blood brain barrier (BBB). Typically, antibody concentrations in the CNS are extremely low; with levels in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) only 0.1% of blood concentrations. Using a novel nanotechnology platform, which we term nanocapsules, we show effective transportation of the human bNAb PGT121 across the BBB in infant rhesus macaques upon systemic administration up to 1.6% of plasma concentration. We demonstrate that a single dose of PGT121 encased in nanocapsules when delivered at 48h post-infection delays early acute infection with SHIVSF162P3in infants, with one of four animals demonstrating viral clearance. Importantly, the nanocapsule delivery of PGT121 improves suppression of SHIV infection in the CNS relative to controls.
Theme orientation and the inevitable outcome of structural flaws: Investigating the results of the dominance of theme over action in Farhadi’s The Salesman
Authors: Sadeqy Shahryar , Naghashzadeh Masoud
Published: July 2021

In this article, we discuss the importance of unity in the feature film script and the mechanism of its development based on the two elements of dramatic action and theme. We investigate the consequences of prioritizing theme over the action on the foundation of the dramatic structure of the screenplay, considering one of the most famous Iranian films, Asghar Farhadi’s The Salesman (2016), the winner of the best screenplay at the 2016 Cannes Film Festival. In any form of drama, the chain of actions leads to a specific theme, and the theme in turn directs this chain. Therefore, to create an organic structure, the balanced development of action and theme is essential. Manipulating this balance in favour of highlighting the theme, and understanding the chain of actions based on the theme weakens the logical relationship of the actions as well as the dramatic structure, ultimately turning some actions into redundancies that can be eliminated. The study shows that in The Salesman’s screenplay, through prioritizing the theme over the action and disrupting the natural process of perceiving the theme from the chain of actions, a structure is created in which the presence of some actions are only justified by referring to the theme. Therefore, a number of events/scenes in the screenplay can be omitted without interfering with the unity of the narrative and the formation and expression of the theme. As a result, prioritizing the theme over the action in the foundation of the script inevitably leads to a flawed structure.
Art in the ‘big print’: An examination and exercises for cinematic prose writing style
Authors: Brickey Russell
Published: July 2021

Guides to writing screenplays worry most about plot sequence, character development and the dialogue. Yet, the ‘big print’ is a necessary part of any screenplay and as an educator I work with my screenwriting students to learn how to craft the big print so it is both powerful and minimal. This article is an examination of the art and style of screenplay prose; in particular, I use the screenplays of Arac Attack (released as Eight Legged Freaks), Aliens and Platoon as distinctive examples of diegetic writing in order to illustrate variations of style and how these affect the progress of the script and further, how the encumbering big print forecasts the overall tonal choices of the film. Each style discussed (minimalist, poetic/expansive and florid/expressionistic) is accompanied by suggestions for classroom or independent-study exercises meant to help develop movie writing style. Too long has the screenplay been seen simply as a blueprint for the final film; it is now time to begin appreciating the art of the written word in screenplay studies.
Creating Australian Television Drama: A Screenwriting History, Susan Lever (2020)
Authors: Burne Philippa
Published: July 2021

Review of: Creating Australian Television Drama: A Screenwriting History, Susan Lever (2020)

North Melbourne: Australian Scholarly Publishing, 282 pp.,

ISBN 978-1-92598-488-0, p/bk, AUD 39.95
Análisis axiológico-educativo de videojuegos de temática violenta
Authors: Ortega Carrillo José Antonio , Robles Vilchez Mª Carmen
Published: July 2021

Un alto porcentaje de los videojuegos existentes en el mercado poseen argumentos relacionados con el ejercicio de la violencia física y psicológica. Ciertos estudios indican que este tipo de juegos son masivamente utilizados por niños y adolescentes, lo que reabre la polémica de la posible influencia en la conformación de su personalidad y, de manera especial, en la construcción de la escala de valores que orientará sus conductas presentes y futuras como ciudadanos. Este trabajo recoge los resultados parciales de una reciente investigación en la que videojugadores adultos relacionados con el mundo de la educación (futuros docentes en formación) han analizado críticamente la componente axiológica de un nutrido grupo de videojuegos de acción que ocupan destacados puestos en las listas de ventas. Para ello se ha utilizado una escala específica, suministrada para tal fin, que contiene indicadores alusivos a aspectos sustanciales tales como su argumento, los videos inicial y final, los comportamientos de sus protagonistas, la escenografía y el atuendo los personajes, las acciones que realiza el jugador y los resultados parciales y finales conseguidos.
Las TIC y las culturas minoritarias en un mundo global
Authors: Ovide Evaristo
Published: July 2021

Las culturas minoritarias, sus lenguas y tradiciones se vuelven más minoritarias y su aliento vital se debilita a medida que la globalización las sitúa dentro de un contexto mucho más amplio. La aparición de las Nuevas Tecnologías (NN.TT.) e Internet como base de las mismas ha supuesto una nueva discriminación entre los que tienen acceso a ellas y los que no. Las culturas minoritarias lo son por haber sido doblegadas por otra dominante y por ello, a menudo padecen males más acuciantes que la pérdida de su identidad (desempleo, pobreza, exclusión social, etc), lo cual hace aún más complicado reafirmar sus raíces cuando hacerlo significa continuar en condiciones de vida inferiores a las que uno tendría integrándose en la nueva cultura dominante. En este artículo, pretendemos mostrar la importancia de las NN.TT. y las enormes posibilidades que ofrece para la recuperación de estas culturas amenazadas, integrándolas en el mundo de Internet, dándoles una voz y un lugar donde reunirse, comunicarse y enriquecer el patrimonio universal con su visión particular y única del mundo.
La enseñanza-aprendizaje de la lengua extranjera a través de la estrategia de las webquests: un caso práctico en el campus virtual de la U.C.M.
Authors: García Bermejo María Luisa , Sordo Juanena José Mª
Published: July 2021

Este artículo presenta un proyecto de Innovación Educativa sobre cómo integrar las TIC en el currículo de la formación inicial del profesorado de lengua extranjera (inglés). El proyecto giró en torno al uso de las WebQuests. Para llevarlo a cabo, se creó un editor de WebQuests y se utilizó la plataforma WebCT de la UCM, así como nuestro sitio Web. Las WebQuests son actividades útiles para integrar las TIC en la clase de lenguas ex-tranjeras y fomentar el aprendizaje colaborativo. En este estudio se diseñaron e imple-mentaron en el primer curso de Magisterio, dos WebQuests en torno a temas del pro-grama oficial de Lengua Inglesa I. Los resultados muestran cómo las tareas centradas en la lectura, la escucha y la escritura han ayudado al alumnado a desarrollar sus destrezas orales.
Seguimiento de la movilidad de los estudiantes por medio de las nuevas tecnologías
Authors: Carral Michel , Lanneau Patrick
Published: July 2021

El seguimiento de la movilidad de los estudiantes, en el marco de la formación de los maestros, es una verdadera preocupación de numerosas instituciones, debido a que los sistemas educativos en los países de acogida y en los de origen son demasiado diferentes. Una de las principales consecuencias de esta diversidad es que, a menudo, los períodos de formación en el extranjero se reducen a tres meses en algún momento del año académico, respondiendo al sistema de formación de origen con independencia del sistema de acogida. Este artículo analiza la experiencia del Programa RESO Europa/Canadá, puesto en marcha en 2004. El programa trató de aplicar un planteamiento más estructurado del seguimiento de los cursos de formación. Las instituciones participantes consideraron indispensable concebir un sistema que favoreciera el "seguimiento a distancia". Los resultados inmediatos han sido un aumento de la productividad de los estudiantes, una mayor continuidad entre el trabajo de los formadores y el de los estudiantes de los centros de origen, y un aumento de la disponibilidad docente.
Universidades presenciales y entornos virtuales de aprendizaje: una aproximación a la perspectiva del profesorado ante el e-learning
Authors: Pérez Lorido Martín
Published: July 2021

El discurso en torno a la incorporación de las tecnologías de la información y la comunicación en el contexto universitario presencial ha incidido frecuentemente sobre la necesidad de institucionalizar programas de formación que permitan un aprovechamiento óptimo de las características diferenciales del e-learning. Reconocido ya el potencial de los medios disponibles en la actualidad para contribuir a favorecer nuevas destrezas instrumentales y cognitivas en los estudiantes universitarios, parece estar cobrando una mayor relevancia la adecuada contextualización de las necesidades docentes en este sentido. Tratando de avanzar en su reconocimiento, presentamos aquí algunas de las conclusiones obtenidas en un estudio exploratorio realizado durante el curso académico 2004-2005 en la Universidade da Coruña. El interés prioritario de nuestro artículo es ofrecer una información útil tanto para investigadores en el ámbito del e-learning, como para los gestores responsables de universidades tradicionales, en su interés por incorporar la formación on-line desde un conocimiento mejor informado.
Nuevas competencias del profesor en el EEES: una experiencia de innovación docente
Authors: Cuadrado Gordillo Isabel , Fernández Antelo Inmaculada
Published: July 2021

El trabajo colaborativo es una de las estrategias metodológicas clave en la implantación del Espacio Europeo de Educación Superior. Igualmente, las Tecnologías de la Información y Comunicación, así como las nuevas potencialidades pedagógicas atribuidas a su uso en el aula universitaria, facilitan y promueven la interacción y comunicación entre los estudiantes y entre profesor y alumnos, al tiempo que contribuyen a la creación de una comunidad educativa virtual basada en principios tales como la cooperación, corresponsabilidad, respeto y confianza mutua. En este trabajo se describen la experiencia piloto llevada a cabo en la asignatura de Psicología de la Instrucción para su adaptación al EEES. En ellas se destaca cómo la organización y el trabajo en equipo apoyado por herramientas de comunicación sincrónicas y asíncronas ha favorecido la reflexión, el debate y la implicación de los alumnos en su proceso de aprendizaje. Asimismo, se resalta el papel del profesor como orientador y guía de dicho proceso.
RFamide peptides, the novel regulators of mammalian HPG axis: A review
Authors: Mohapatra Smruti Smita , Mukherjee Joydip , Banerjee Dipak , Das Pradip Kumar , Ghosh Prabal Ranjan , Das Kinsuk
Published: July 2021

The RFamide-related peptides (RFRPs) are the group of neuropeptides synthesized predominantly from the hypothalamus that negatively affects the hypothalamo-hypophyseal-gonadal (hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal [HPG]) axis. These peptides are first identified in quail brains and emerged as the mammalian orthologs of avian gonadotropin inhibitory hormones. The RFRP-3 neurons in the hypothalamus are present in several mammalian species. The action of RFRP-3 is mediated through a G-protein-coupled receptor called OT7T022. The predominant role of RFRP-3 is the inhibition of HPG axis with several other effects such as the regulation of metabolic activity, stress regulation, controlling of non-sexual motivated behavior, and sexual photoperiodicity in concert with other neuropeptides such as kisspeptin, neuropeptide-Y (NPY), pro-opiomelanocortin, orexin, and melanin. RFamide peptides synthesized in the granulosa cells, interstitial cells, and seminiferous tubule regulate steroidogenesis and gametogenesis in the gonads. The present review is intended to provide the recent findings that explore the role of RFRP-3 in regulating HPG axis and its potential applications in the synchronization of reproduction and its therapeutic interventions to prevent stress-induced amenorrhea.
Da arqueologia da mídia às ficções teóricas. Um giro reflexivo
Authors: Silveira Fabrício
Published: July 2021

Trata-se de um ensaio, no sentido mais literal do termo. O texto expõe os bastidores de um processo de pesquisa. Formula, fundamentalmente, a transição de um interesse genérico pelo campo da arqueologia das mídias para o campo mais singularizado das ficções teóricas, tal como subentendidas pelo filósofo e crítico cultural inglês Mark Fisher. Essa transição, no entanto, não implica um abandono nem uma adoção abruptos, extemporâneos. Antes, o que ocorre é um ajuste de foco, a elaboração de uma certa transversalidade e de uma comensurabilidade entre as duas perspectivas.
Post–Liver Transplant Lymphoproliferative Disorder Presenting as Biliary Stricture
Authors: Karb Daniel , Satyavada Sagarika , Shah Raj , Ismail Mayada , Alencherry Erin , Beck Rose , Cohen Stanley Martin
Published: July 2021

A 63-year-old man with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis cirrhosis who underwent orthotopic liver transplant presented 1 year later with obstructive jaundice because of a biliary stricture. This anastomotic stricture was initially believed to be ischemic, but further investigation revealed malignant biliary obstruction because of encasement of the bile duct by a mass arising from liver segment VII, later determined to be post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder with widespread metastasis. After reduction of immunosuppression and systemic chemotherapy, he experienced complete remission. This case illustrates the need to consider post-transplantation lymphoproliferative disorder–related biliary stricture in any postorthotopic liver transplantation transplant patient presenting with obstructive jaundice.
Потенциалы для трехмерного эллиптического уравнения с одним сингулярным коэффициентом и их применение
Authors: Эргашев Тухтасин Гуламжанович , Ergashev Tuhtasin Gulamjanovich
Published: July 2021

Рассматривается теория потенциала для трехмерного эллиптического уравнения с одним
сингулярным коэффициентом.
В рассмотрение вводятся потенциалы двойного и простого слоев с неизвестной плотностью, которые выражаются через фундаментальное решение названного эллиптического уравнения.
При исследовании этих потенциалов используются свойства гипергеометрической функции Гаусса.
Доказаны теоремы о предельных значениях введенных потенциалов и их конормальных производных, которые позволяют эквивалентным образом свести краевые задачи для сингулярных эллиптических уравнений к интегральному уравнению второго рода, к которому применима теория Фредгольма.
В качестве приложения изложенной теории в области, ограниченной координатной плоскостью $x=0$ и поверхностью Ляпунова при $x>0$, для трехмерного эллиптического уравнения с одним сингулярным коэффициентом решается задача Хольмгрена.
Единственность решения поставленной задачи доказывается известным методом $abc$, а существование - методом функции Грина, регулярная часть которой ищется в виде потенциала двойного слоя с временно неизвестной плотностью.
Решение задачи Хольмгрена находится в виде, удобном для дальнейших исследований.
Метод Римана для уравнений с доминирующей частной производной
Authors: Миронов Алексей Николаевич , Mironov Alexei Nikolaevich , Миронова Любовь Борисовна , Mironova Lubov' Borisovna , Яковлева Юлия Олеговна , Yakovleva Juliya Olegovna
Published: July 2021

Данная обзорная статья посвящена классу линейных уравнений с доминирующей частной производной
вида $(D+M)u=f$, где $Du$ - смешанная частная производная, а $M$ - линейный дифференциальный оператор, содержащий производные функции $u$, получаемые из $D$ отбрасыванием по крайней мере одного дифференцирования.
Можно отметить структурное сходство таких уравнений с линейными обыкновенными дифференциальными уравнениями. Излагается метод Римана для линейных уравнений с доминирующей частной производной, являющийся естественным обобщением хорошо известного метода Римана для гиперболического уравнения второго порядка с двумя независимыми переменными.
В статье изложены основные положения теории, разработанной для уравнения с доминирующей частной производной общего вида, позволяющие заинтересованному читателю применить полученные результаты
к интересующей его задаче.
Дается определение функции Римана как решения интегрального уравнения Вольтерры, приведено основное дифференциальное тождество, продемонстрирован процесс получения формулы решения задачи Коши в терминах функции Римана путем интегрирования указанного тождества по соответствующей области в $n$-мерном пространстве. Приведен пример построения решения задачи Коши для одного уравнения третьего порядка.
Далее излагается метод Римана для достаточно широкого класса линейных систем уравнений гиперболического типа (в том числе с кратными характеристиками). Данный метод идейно весьма близок к методу Римана для линейных уравнений с доминирующей частной производной.
Обсуждаются вопросы приложений метода Римана к исследованию новых задач для уравнений с частными производными. В частности, с использованием метода Римана доказана корректность новых граничных задач для факторизованных гиперболических уравнений, исследованы вопросы разрешимости интегральных уравнений с частными интегралами, определенная модификация метода Римана позволяет развивать метод Римана-Адамара для задач Дарбу. Представление решений гиперболических систем в явном виде в терминах матрицы Римана позволяет исследовать новые граничные задачи, в частности, задачи с заданием нормальных производных искомых функций на характеристиках, задачи с условиями на всей границе области, задачи Дарбу.
Изложенный здесь метод Римана для линейных уравнений с доминирующей частной производной очевидным образом переносится на матричные уравнения. В связи с этим указаны некоторые случаи, когда
для таких матричных уравнений построена в явном виде (в терминах гипергеометрических функций)
матрица Римана.
В работе дается обзор литературы, кратко излагается история развития данного направления в России и за рубежом.
Dual High Flow Oxygen Therapy and CPAP Ventilation in a Single Device for COVID-19
Authors: Kelly James , Dowe Michael , Briggs Jonathan , Chan Michael , Martin-Lazaro Juan
Published: July 2021

High flow oxygen therapy (HFOT) and Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) could be considered the most important ventilatory therapies during the COVID-19 pandemic because of their frequency of use. There are many devices on the market which provide this type of ventilatory support, and these should be distinguished from one another by their efficacy, versatility, patient comfort, hygiene and cost. We evaluated the AquaVENT FD140i from Armstrong Medical, which delivers both HFOT and CPAP, concluding that it provides two potentially efficacious treatments to COVID-19 patients, while its long-life battery facilitates transfers for escalation and de-escalation of care. We compared the AquaVENT FD140i with the Fisher & Paykel MR850, which is a gold standard in the market. We also looked at the compatibility of their humidifier and disposables with Armstrong Medical devices. The results of this study suggest the compatibility of both systems, which has the potential to reduce consumable costs.
CORRELATION BETWEEN LOCAL BONE DENSITY AND INSERTION TORQUE AS PREDICTORS OF IMMEDIATE IMPLANT LOADING. A BIBLIOGRAPHIC REVIEW
Authors: Ortega-Martínez Jordi
Published: July 2021

Title: Correlation between local bone density and insertion torque as predictor of immediate implant loading. A bibliographic review.

 Background: Implants have become an alternative to rehabilitate lost teeth. One of the prerequisites for immediate loading is to determine primary stability by analyzing bone density and insertion torque.

Aims: A bibliographic review is conducted to correlate local bone density and insertion torque as predictors of the immediate loading of an implant.

Materials and methods: Review using PubMed databases of systematic reviews, meta-analyses, randomized clinical studies, non-randomized clinical studies, in vitro studies, cohort studies, cross-sectional studies, and clinical trials, either in English or in Spanish. The focus was on the correlation between local bone density and insertion torque.

Results: Local bone density is a useful guide for determining insertion torque and predicting initial implant stability.

Discussion: The insertion torque and bone density values determine whether immediate loading of the implant is possible or not, and therefore predict this possibility.

Conclusions: A correlation between local bone density and insertion torque was established, and this correlation predicts immediate loading of an implant. Therefore, to reach a consensus, further studies should consider all the factors influencing this concept.
An Efficient Application of Neuroevolution for Competitive Multiagent Learning
Authors: Menon Unnikrishnan , Menon Anirudh
Published: July 2021

Multiagent systems provide an ideal environment for the evaluation and analysis of real-world problems using reinforcement learning algorithms. Most traditional approaches to multiagent learning are affected by long training periods as well as high computational complexity. NEAT (NeuroEvolution of Augmenting Topologies) is a popular evolutionary strategy used to obtain the best performing neural network architecture often used to tackle optimization problems in the field of artificial intelligence. This paper utilizes the NEAT algorithm to achieve competitive multiagent learning on a modified pong game environment in an efficient manner. The competing agents abide by different rules while having similar observation space parameters. The proposed algorithm utilizes this property of the environment to define a singular neuroevolutionary procedure that obtains the optimal policy for all the agents. The compiled results indicate that the proposed implementation achieves ideal behaviour in a very short training period when compared to existing multiagent reinforcement learning models.
Analytical Modeling of the Dynamic System of the Fourth Order
Authors: Kravets Victor , Kravets Volodymyr , Burov Olexiy
Published: July 2021

A canonical mathematical model of a fourth-order dynamical system in the form of A.M. Letov. The analytical modeling methods are based on the algebraic concept and the principle of symmetry. The symmetry principle is realized on the set of four indices of the roots of the characteristic equation and the set of four indices of the phase coordinates of the dynamic system.

The problem of the quality of dynamic processes in time is reduced to the algebraic problem of distribution of four roots in the complex plane. An analogy is established in the procedure for transforming the characteristic determinant to a polynomial and elementary symmetric polynomials of four roots. On the basis of the theory of residues, a new form of analytical representation of data in time is obtained in the form of ordered determinants with respect to the indices of four roots and indices of four coordinates.

General provisions are illustrated by a stochastic dynamical system in the form of an asymmetric Markov chain with four states and continuous time, which is described by the fourth-order Kolmogorov equations.
Nueva variante en el gen COL4A3: etiología de un síndrome de Alport tipo 2 en varón de 38 años con sospecha de nefritis hereditaria
Authors: Sienes Bailo Paula , Bancalero Flores José Luis , Lahoz Alonso Raquel , Santamaría González María , Gutiérrez Dalmau Alex , Álvarez de Andrés Sara , Izquierdo Álvarez Silvia
Published: July 2021

Objetivos

Los pacientes con síndrome de Alport experimentan una pérdida progresiva de la función renal, pérdida auditiva neurosensorial y anomalías oculares. Está causado por mutaciones en los genes COL4A5 (herencia ligada al cromosoma X), COL4A3 y COL4A4 (herencia autosómica dominante o recesiva), que codifican respectivamente las cadenas α3, α4 y α5 del colágeno tipo IV. En ausencia de tratamiento, el cuadro clínico progresa desde hematuria microscópica hacia proteinuria, insuficiencia renal progresiva y enfermedad renal terminal. En la actualidad, el trasplante renal supone el único tratamiento eficaz. Las pruebas genéticas de secuenciación masiva son el método de elección para el diagnóstico de esta patología.

Presentación del caso

Se presenta el caso de un varón joven con enfermedad renal crónica que fue finalmente trasplantado, en el que el estudio genético permitió conocer la etiología de su contexto clínico, un síndrome de Alport tipo 2 de herencia autosómica recesiva. Se detectó que el paciente era portador de dos variantes de cambio de sentido en heterocigosis compuesta (configuración trans) en COL4A3: una probablemente patogénica c.4981C>T (p.Arg1661Cys) en el exón 52 heredada vía materna previamente descrita y otra de significado clínico incierto c.943G>A (p.Gly315Ser) en el exón 17 heredada vía paterna que no había sido reportada anteriormente en la literatura ni en las bases de datos consultadas.

Conclusiones

La confirmación desde el punto de vista genético permitió asesorar adecuadamente al paciente y familiares directos.
Association between latency period and perinatal outcomes after preterm premature rupture of membranes at 32–37 weeks of gestation: a perinatal registry-based cohort study
Authors: Bitenc Marie , Ovsenik Lea , Lučovnik Miha , Verdenik Ivan , Kornhauser Cerar Lilijana
Published: July 2021

Objectives

To investigate association between latency after preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) and perinatal outcomes at moderately and late preterm gestation.

Methods

National perinatal registry-based cohort study using data for the period 2013–2018. Singleton pregnancies with non-malformed fetuses in cephalic presentation complicated by PPROM at 32+0–36+6 weeks were included. Associations between latency period and perinatal mortality, neonatal respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), early onset neonatal infection (EONI), and cesarean section were assessed using multiple logistic regression, adjusting for potential confounders (labor induction, maternal body-mass-index, maternal age, antenatal corticosteroids, and small-for-gestational-age). p<0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Of 3,017 pregnancies included, 365 (12.1%) had PPROM at 32+0–33+6 weeks and 2,652 (87.9%) at 34+0–36+6 weeks. Among all cases, 2,540 (84%) had latency <24 h (group A), 305 (10%) 24–47 h (group B), and 172 (6%) ≥48 h (group C). Longer latency was associated with higher incidence of EONI (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.350; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.900–2.026 for group B and aOR 2.500; 95% CI 1.599–3.911 for group C) and higher rate of caesarean section (aOR 2.465; 95% CI 1.763–3.447 for group B and aOR 1.854; 95% CI 1.172–2.932 for group C). Longer latency was not associated with rates of RDS (aOR 1.160; 95% CI 0.670–2.007 for group B and aOR 0.917; 95% CI 0.428–1.966 for group C).

Conclusions

In moderately to late PPROM, increased latency is associated with higher risk of EONI and cesarean section with no reduction in RDS.
Two Shapes of Pragmatism
Authors: Mudry Léna
Published: July 2021

The ethics of belief is concerned with the question of what we should believe. According to evidentialism, what one should believe is determined by evidence only. Pragmatism claims that practical considerations too can be relevant. But pragmatism comes in two shapes. According to a more traditional version, practical considerations can provide practical reasons for or against belief. According to a new brand of pragmatism, pragmatic encroachment, practical considerations can affect positive epistemic status, such as epistemic rationality or knowledge. In the literature, the distinction between the two versions of pragmatism is not always made. If it is mentioned, it is quickly put aside. Sometimes, it is simply overlooked. As evidentialists face two distinct pragmatist challenges, they must get clearer on the distinction. But it matters for pragmatists too. As I see it, if one accepts one version of pragmatism, one should reject the other. This paper’s goals are to get clearer on the distinction and argue that both pragmatisms are independent. Accepting one version does not commit one to accept the other. Moreover, even if both pragmatisms tend to be neutral toward one another, I will argue that traditional pragmatism has good reasons to reject pragmatic encroachment and vice versa.
Identification of thermo optical parameters in 4l-hexyloxy-4-cyanobyphenyl with dispersed ZnO nano particles
Authors: Pardhasaradhi Pokkunuri , Taraka Phani Madhav Boddapati , Srilekha Gandu , Ramakrishna Nanchara Rao Manepalli , Venkata Ganesh Gorla
Published: July 2021

In this present article, synthesis, characterization, and study of optical parameters through image enhancement methods have been carried out on 4l-hexyloxy-4-cyanobyphenyl (6OCB) pure liquid crystal (LC) and 6OCB with dispersion of 0.5 wt% ZnO nanoparticles. Textural determinations of the synthesized compounds are recorded by using SDTECHS POM connected with a hot stage and camera. differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) is used to measure enthalpy and transition temperature values. The results show that the dispersion of ZnO in 6OCB exhibits nematic phase as same as the pure 6OCB with slightly reduced clearing temperature as expected. Further characterization is carried out by various spectroscopic techniques like X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and ultraviolet visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopy. To evaluate and identify the behavior of optical parameters viz optical transmittance (OT), absorption coefficient (AC), and phase retardation (PR) as a function of temperature, an image processing method has been proposed, i.e. illumination enhancement algorithm (IEA) using MATLAB software. The proposed enhancement algorithm is one of the simplest and efficient algorithms to evaluate the thermo optical parameters for various electro optical applications. The results are compared with the body of the data available.
Second life: un entorno virtual para reducir la ansiedad de los estudiantes de lenguas extranjeras
Authors: Sánchez Muñoz Gloria
Published: July 2021

La adquisición de un segundo idioma es un constructo complejo en el cual no sólo factores cognitivos juegan un papel crucial, sino también afectivos. En las últimas décadas, el análisis de los factores afectivos en el aprendizaje de segundas lenguas e idiomas extranjeros ha ganado prominencia. Diversas investigaciones han demostrado una fuerte correlación entre el aprendizaje de lenguas y aspectos como la personalidad, la motivación, la actitud o la ansiedad (p. ej., Gardner, 2020; Hewitt & Stephenson, 2011; MacIntyre & Gardner, 1989). El objetivo de este artículo es examinar si el nivel de ansiedad causado por el aprendizaje de lenguas extranjeras (FLA) podría disminuir usando mundos virtuales tales cómo Second Life (SL) para la enseñanza de idiomas. Esta investigación compara los niveles de FLA de un Grupo Experimental (EG), que completó tres actividades a través de SL, con un Grupo de Control (CG), que completó las mismas actividades en el aula tradicional. Los resultados indican que los niveles de FLA de los participantes en el EG disminuyeron a medida que las clases avanzaban en comparación con los participantes en el CG. Además, las conclusiones sugieren que la confianza de los participantes que trabajaban en SL aumentó con el paso del tiempo. Este incremento en la confianza de los alumnos podría atribuirse al papel crucial que desempeña el anonimato en los mundos virtuales.
Fracture toughness and shear yield strength determination for two selected species of central European provenance
Authors: Hlásková Luďka , Orlowski Kazimierz A. , Kopecký Zdeněk , Sviták Martin , Ochrymiuk Tomasz
Published: July 2021

When offcut of wood is formed by shearing, Atkins’s analyses of sawing processes can be applied. Using this modern approach, it is possible to determine the fracture toughness and shear yield strength of wood. This model is only applicable for the axial-perpendicular cutting direction because both of these parameters are suitable for the given direction of cutting edge movement and cannot be considered material constants. Alternatively, these parameters can be recalculated for the perpendicular and axial directions of cutting when the parameters are considered non-variable quantities. The set of data necessary for calculation can be easily obtained while cutting wood with common circular saw blades. It is necessary to ensure a minimum of two levels of workpiece height and two diverse levels of feed speed. The main aim was to develop an alternative methodology for simultaneous determination of wood fracture toughness and shear yield strength for two principal directions regarding wood grains on the basis of cutting tests performed during circular saw blade cutting for two selected wood species of Central Europe provenance, such as spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karst.) and beech (Fagus sylvatica L.).
Deep eutectic solvent delignification to low-energy mechanical pulp to produce papermaking fibers
Authors: Fiskari Juha , Ferritsius Rita , Osong Sinke H. , Persson Anders , Höglund Tomas , Immerzeel Peter , Norgren Magnus
Published: July 2021

A novel process based on low-energy mechanical pulp and deep eutectic solvents (DESs) was evaluated with the goal of producing fibers suitable for papermaking. Ideally, these fibers could be produced at much lower costs, especially when applied to an existing paper mill equipped with a thermomechanical pulp (TMP) production line that was threatened with shutdown due to the decreasing demand for wood-containing paper grades. The efficiency of DES delignification in Teflon-coated autoclaves and in a specially designed non-standard flow extractor was evaluated. All tested DESs had choline chloride ([Ch]Cl) as the hydrogen bond acceptor. Lactic acid, oxalic acid, malic acid, or urea acted as hydrogen bond donors. The temperatures and times of the delignification tests were varied. Chemical analysis of the pulp samples revealed that DESs containing lactic acid, oxalic acid, or urea decreased the lignin content by approximately 50%. The DES delignification based on [Ch]Cl and urea exhibited good hemicellulose retention while DES systems based on organic acids resulted in varying hemicellulose losses. The [Ch]Cl / urea mixture did not appear to be corrosive to stainless steel, which was another advantage of this DES system.
Variable climate’s effect on wood material’s equilibrium moisture content in Turkey
Authors: Esen Raşit , Türüdü Caner
Published: July 2021

Some negative attributes of wood material have numerous practical consequences. The most important of these attributes is that wood, as a hygroscopic material, is dependent on the relative humidity of its environment. The hygroscopic nature of wood material can lead to serious problems when used in doors, windows, and interior or exterior decoration materials. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect on wood materials equilibrium moisture due to different climates in selected provinces in Turkey. This study examined pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) and oak (Quercus rubra L.) woods, both of which are commonly used in industry. Over 12 months, the equilibrium moisture value of these wood was determined in the Bursa, Antalya, İzmir, Malatya, Trabzon, Karabük, Van, and Kars provinces of Turkey. Pine and oak samples, prepared per standards TS 2471 (1976) and TS 2472 (1976), were taken from these provinces each month, and the equilibrium moisture values were determined. It was observed that the use of Scotch pine wood samples for both indoor and outdoor use was more appropriate over the 12-month period. Malatya was the province in which the Scotch pine samples were the least affected. It was also determined that Van was the most suitable province for the interior use of oak wood material. It was not found that indoor use gave better results than outdoor use.
Ecologically friendly modified green liquor method for enhancing the technological properties of sugarcane bagasse (Saccharum officinarum L.) pulp
Authors: Fares Yahia G. D. , Taha Ayman S. , Abo Elgat Wael A. A. , Salem Mohamed Z. M. , Al-Huqail Asma A. , Ali Hayssam M.
Published: July 2021

Ordinary kraft pulping of bagasse was adjusted by utilizing green liquor at the laboratory and research of Misr-Edfu Pulp, Writing and Printing Paper in a small pilot batch digester (Edfu, Aswan, Egypt) as an environmentally friendly method. Bagasse pulp was produced with and without green liquor, and the physical and mechanical properties of unbleached bagasse were assessed. The parameter states of cooking were completed utilizing antacid substance charge from 10% to 13%, cooking temperature from 160 to 170 °C, cooking time from 20 to 50 min, and solid to liquor ratio of 7:1 that was steady in all preliminaries. The results demonstrated the exploratory idea that green liquor can provide critical pulping advantages in comparison with customary kraft pulping. Screened pulp yield improved 2.6%, rejects content decreased 0.9%, kappa number was reduced by 26.9%, and brightness was increased by 3%. There also was improved mechanical quality of bagasse pulp: increases of 14.3% (tensile index), 8.7% (tear index record), 4.6% (burst index), and 15.4% (double fold number) were observed compared with conventional kraft pulping. This process also saved money related to the expense of depleted vitality, lime consumed during causticizing process, and upkeep of the causticizing plant.
On zeros of solutions of nonlinear nonautonomous ordinary differential equations of second order
Authors: Varekh N.V. , Shevelo V.N.
Published: July 2021

On zeros of solutions of nonlinear nonautonomous ordinary differential equations of second order.
On the best approximation of two-variable functions of class $Z_2$ by some linear operators
Authors: Bugaets V.P.
Published: July 2021

On the best approximation of two-variable functions of class $Z_2$ by some linear operators.
To construction of Green matrices of edge problems of theory of flat hulls with cyclic periodicity
Authors: Gavelia S.P.
Published: July 2021

To construction of Green matrices of edge problems of theory of flat hulls with cyclic periodicity.
Some analogues between iterative processes and difference schemes
Authors: Zenkin O.V.
Published: July 2021

Some analogues between iterative processes and difference schemes.
On convergence of interpolation sums in strong sense
Authors: Lipovik V.V.
Published: July 2021

On convergence of interpolation sums in strong sense.
Approximate solution of integral-differential equations by generalized method of moments
Authors: Topolianskii D.B. , Zhurakova V.K.
Published: July 2021

Approximate solution of integral-differential equations by generalized method of moments.
The life course and subjective well-being across generations – an analysis based on cross-national surveys (2002–2016)
Authors: Matsuo Hideko , Matthijs Koen
Published: July 2021

This paper identifies subjective well-being trajectories through happiness measures as influenced by time, socio-economic, demographic and behavioural determinants. Hierarchical age-period-cohort models are applied to European Social Survey (2002–2016) data on the population aged 30 and older in 10 countries. A U-shaped relationship between age and happiness is found for some countries, but a rather flat pattern and considerable diversity beyond age 80 are detected for other countries. Lower happiness levels are found for baby boomers (1945–1964) than for preboomers and post-boomers, and also for late boomers (1955–1964) than for early boomers (1945–1954). Women, highly educated and native people are shown to have higher happiness levels than men, less educated and non-native people, respectively. Moreover, a positive assessment of income, having a partner, and being a parent, in good health, employed and socially active are all found to have a positive impact on happiness levels. We find evidence of gaps in happiness levels due to differences in socio-economic characteristics over the life course in some, but not in all of the countries analysed.
Situação Didática Olímpica - SDO
Authors: Silva José Gleison Alves da , Alves Francisco Régis Vieira , Menezes Daniel Brandão
Published: July 2021

Os resultados do PISA demostram um baixo desempenho em relação ao ensino de matemática e, com o objetivo de melhoria, foi criada a OBMEP. Essa competição dispõe de problemas ricos em conceitos que, além de desafiadores, exigem bastante criatividade. Desse modo, pretendemos usar, neste artigo, uma Situação Didática Olímpica como proposta de ensino para a sala de aula, utilizando os pressupostos da Teoria das Situações Didáticas para ensinar geometria plana por meio de Problemas Olímpicos. Adotamos como teoria de ensino a Teoria das Situações Didáticas (TSD) aplicada a Problemas de Olimpíadas de Matemática, que se denomina como Situações Didáticas Olímpicas, além de contar com o auxílio do GeoGebra para as resoluções dos estudantes. A metodologia de pesquisa baseia-se em uma revisão bibliográfica a partir de autores, como Santos e Alves, Azevedo, Alves e Oliveira, Alves, Almouloud e Brousseau. Essa proposta de uma sequência didática com o uso de uma ferramenta tecnológica dará aos alunos subsídios para a construção do conhecimento e a possibilidade da dinamização e visualização dos conceitos, contribuindo em seu aprendizado e autonomia.
Palavras-chave: OBMEP; teoria das situações didáticas; situações didáticas olímpicas; problema olímpico; GeoGebra.