bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Review Article on Metal Complexes derived from 2’-hydroxyacetophenone based Schiff Base
Authors: Gupta Pallavee , Dwivedi Dhananjay , Chourey Vijay R.
Published: March 2021

In this review article, we try to cover various studies have been done on 2’-hydroxyacetophenone based schiff bases and formed metal complexes such as Formation with diamine, amino acids etc., antibacterial, antifungal, cytotoxicity, larvicidal, oxidation-reduction and schiff base Formation with different amine group containing compounds etc.
Effects of Pretreatment and Solid-State Fermentation on Tempeh Protein Content
Authors: Tojang Djunarlin , Saparuddin Saparuddin , Alimuddin Alimuddin , Arham Zul
Published: March 2021

In this study, the effect of pretreatment and solid-state fermentation (SSF) on tempeh protein content has been studied. Pretreatment and SSF are important processes for producing high-quality tempeh. Based on the results of the analysis using a UV-Vis spectrophotometer at λmax = 540 nm, it is known that both pretreatment and SSF cause the reduced tempeh protein content. Pretreatment causes the total protein content (w/w) to decrease rapidly from 1.05% to 0.82%, while the SSF causes the content dissolved protein (w/w) reduced from 0.57% to 0.11%. In addition, SSF increased the tempeh pH from 4.67 to 5.65, and decreased the water content (%) from 6.38 to 2.04.
Anti-Urolithiatic Activity of Silver Nanoparticles of Terminalia Chebula Bark
Authors: Vidhya S. , Rose A. Leema , Priya F. Janeeta , Keerthana T. , Priyadharshini R.
Published: March 2021

The potential inhibitory action of herbals plays an indispensable role in modern medicine. The struvite crystal is an infectious stone related to urinary tract infection, hence the present study highlighted the anti-urolithiatic potential of Terminalia chebula bark mediated silver nanoparticles. Silver nanoparticles formation was confirmed by SPR band at 437nm. FT-IR spectroscopic studies suggested that phytoconstituents are primarily responsible for the reduction and capping of silver nanoparticles. TEM and XRD analysis revealed that the uniformity in shape and crystalline nature of T. chebula mediated silver nanoparticles. The single gel diffusion method was adopted to found the inhibition action of T.chebula mediated silver nanoparticles in struvite crystals. The inhibition efficiency was found to be 87.9 %, indicated that T. chebula mediated silver nanoparticles was a good inhibitor for the struvite crystals. The shift in band values of FTIR spectra confirms that the phyto constituents present in T. chebula bark is responsible for the anti-urolithiatic activity.
Microwave-Assisted Synthesis of Para-Nitrophenol Using Calcium Nitrate
Authors: Buan Ivy Joyce Arenas , Duldulao Dyanne Jane Cid
Published: March 2021

Conventional process of nitrating phenolic compounds involves the use of excess corrosive reagents that impose environmental threats. Rapid and environmentally friendly microwave-assisted nitration of phenol has been employed to limit the use of corrosive nitric acid and sulfuric acid. In this study, phenol is reacted to calcium nitrate and acetic acid, which served as nitrating agents. The solution is irradiated under microwave to complete the nitration process. This microwave-assisted- synthesis is a rate- enhanced process that showed complete nitration in a short reaction time of 1 min with a high yield of 89%. Bands of phenyl ring, OH, CO, and nitro groups observed in the FTIR spectra correspond to the vibration modes of para-nitrophenol. GCMS analysis showed a retention time of 7 min for the product with 139m/z base peak with matches that confirms the synthesis of para- nitrophenol. This microwave-assisted method can be employed as an efficient, environmentally safe, and rapid alternative nitration method for the synthesis of para-nitrophenol.
Medical Image of the Month: Pulmonary Aspergillus Overlap Syndrome Presenting with ABPA, Multiple Bilateral Aspergillomas
Authors:   Department of Respiratory Medicine, National Institute of Tuberculosis and Respiratory Diseases, New Delhi 110030, India, Janapati Bharath , Jain Anil , Sharma Priya
Published: March 2021

No abstract available. Article truncated after 150 words. Introduction. Aspergillus is a ubiquitous fungal organism that causes a variety of pulmonary manifestations, both in immune-competent and immune-compromised patients. It can vary from simple colonization, Aspergilloma, ABPA to Chronic Pulmonary Aspergillosis (CPA) and Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis (IPA) (1). ABPA is the most frequently recognized manifestation of allergic aspergillosis, caused by the immunological reactions mounted against Asp. fumigatus. Aspergillomas are rounded conglomerates of fungal hyphae, fibrin, mucus and cellular debris that arise in pulmonary cavities, as a late manifestation of CPA. Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) is a long-term aspergillus infection of the lung. The most common form of CPA is chronic cavitary pulmonary aspergillosis (CCPA), which untreated may progress to chronic fibrosing pulmonary aspergillosis. Aspergillus overlap syndrome is defined as the occurrence of more than one form of aspergillus disease (e.g., ABPA with Aspergilloma, ABPA progressing to IPA etc.) in a single individual. Case Report. A 58-year-old woman, resident of …
Two-dimensional extreme skin depth engineering for CMOS photonics
Authors: van Niekerk Matthew , Jahani Saman , Bickford Justin , Cho Pak , Anderson Stephen , Leake Gerald , Coleman Daniel , Fanto Michael L. , Tison Christopher C. , Howland Gregory A. , Jacob Zubin , Preble Stefan F.
Published: March 2021

Extreme skin depth engineering (e-skid) can be applied to integrated photonics to manipulate the evanescent field of a waveguide. Here we demonstrate thate-skidcan be implemented in two directions in order to deterministically engineer the evanescent wave allowing for dense integration with enhanced functionalities. In particular, by increasing the skin depth, we enable the creation of two-dimensional (2D)e-skiddirectional couplers with large gaps and operational bandwidth. Here we experimentally validate 2De-skidfor integrated photonics in a complementary metal–oxide semiconductor (CMOS) photonics foundry and demonstrate strong coupling with a gap of 1.44 µm.
Combined role of polarization matching and critical coupling in enhanced absorption of 2D materials based on metamaterials
Authors: Guo Shangkun , Deng Jie , Zhou Jing , Yu Yu , Bu Yonghao , Zhu Tianyun , Ren Xiansong , Li Zhifeng , Lu Wei , Chen Xiaoshuang
Published: March 2021

Since 2D materials are typically much more efficient to absorb in-plane polarized light than out-of-plane polarized light, keeping the light polarization in-plane at the 2D material is revealed to be a crucial factor other than critical coupling in light absorption enhancement in a 2D material integrated with a light coupling structure. When the composite of a metal-insulator-metal structure and a 2D material changes from the magnetic resonator form to the metasurface Salisbury screen one, the field polarization at the 2D material changes from a mainly out-of-plane status to a mainly in-plane status. As a result, for graphene, the absorptance enhancement is increased by 1.6 to 4.2 times, the bandwidth enlarged by 3.6 to 6.4 times, and the metal loss suppressed by 7.4 to 24 times in the mid- to far-infrared range, leading to the absorptance of graphene approaching 90% in the mid-infrared regime and 100% in the THz regime. For monolayer black phosphorus, the absorptance enhancement at the wavelength of 3.5 µm is increased by 5.4 times, and the bandwidth enlarged by 1.8 times. For monolayer MoS2, the averaged absorptance in the visible-near infrared range is enhanced by 4.4 times from 15.5% to 68.1%.
Petahertz-scale nonlinear photoconductive sampling in air
Authors: Zimin Dmitry , Weidman Matthew , Schötz Johannes , Kling Matthias F. , Yakovlev Vladislav S. , Krausz Ferenc , Karpowicz Nicholas
Published: March 2021

The electric field waveform of a light field can be used to unlock a detailed recording of its interaction with matter, but accessing it requires a measurement with subfemtosecond temporal resolution. We demonstrate nonlinear photoconductive sampling of light fields at optical frequencies in ambient air. The resulting detection method provides broadband electric field measurement in an inexpensive setup using a self-healing medium. A direct comparison is made between detection in air and in quartz, validating the technique up to 0.7 PHz. This provides both a simple route toward field metrology and a new platform for future studies in attosecond physics without the need for complex vacuum setups or sophisticated sample preparation.
Light-induced valleytronics in pristine graphene
Authors: Mrudul M. S. , Jiménez-Galán Álvaro , Ivanov Misha , Dixit Gopal
Published: March 2021

Electrons in two-dimensional hexagonal materials have an extra degree of freedom, the valley pseudospin, that can be used to encode and process quantum information. Valley-selective excitations, governed by the circularly polarized light resonant with the material’s bandgap, are the foundation of valleytronics. It is often assumed that achieving valley selective excitation in pristine graphene with all-optical means is not possible due to the inversion symmetry of the system. Here, we demonstrate that both valley-selective excitation and valley-selective high-harmonic generation can be achieved in pristine graphene by using a combination of two counter-rotating circularly polarized fields, the fundamental and its second harmonic. Controlling the relative phase between the two colors allows us to select the valleys where the electron–hole pairs and higher-order harmonics are generated. We also describe an all-optical method for measuring valley polarization in graphene with a weak probe pulse. This work offers a robust recipe to write and read valley-selective electron excitations in materials with zero bandgap and zero Berry curvature.
Helminth species specific expansion and increased TNF-alpha production of non-classical monocytes during active tuberculosis
Authors: Bewket Gezahegn , Kiflie Amare , Abate Ebba , Stendahl Olle , Schön Thomas , Blomgran Robert
Published: March 2021

BothMycobacterium tuberculosisinfection and helminths may affect innate immune mechanisms such as differential effects on monocytes towards the non-classical and intermediate subsets that favor bacterial persistence. Our aim, was to investigate helminth species specific effects on the frequency and functional activity of monocyte subsets in patients with active tuberculosis and healthy subjects. HIV-negative patients with active pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) and community controls (CCs) in Gondar, Ethiopia were screened for helminth infection by stool microscopy. Flow cytometric analysis of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) andex vivostimulation with purified protein derivative (PPD) and helminth antigens were used to characterize the distribution of monocyte subsets and their function. A total of 74 PTB patients and 57 CCs with and without helminth infection were included. Non-classical monocytes were increased in PTB patients with Ascaris and hookworm infection but not in Schistosoma-infected patients. Ascaris had the strongest effect in increasing the frequency of non-classical monocytes in both PTB patients and CCs, whereas PTB without helminth infection did not affect the frequency of monocyte subsets. There was a helminth specific increase in the frequency of TNF-α producing non-classical monocytes in hookworm infected PTB patients, both with and without PPD-stimulation. Low-to-intermediate TB disease severity associated with increased frequency of non-classical monocytes only for helminth-positive PTB patients, and the frequency of TNF-α producing monocytes were significantly higher in intermediate and non-classical monocytes of helminth positive PTB patients with an intermediate disease score. Helminth infection affected the frequency of monocyte subsets and function both in TB patients and controls which was helminth species dependent in TB patients. The clinical role of this potential immunomodulatory effect needs further study and may affect the response and protection to tuberculosis in areas where helminth infections are endemic.
Protein methyltransferase 7 deficiency in Leishmania major increases neutrophil associated pathology in murine model
Authors: Alcoforado Diniz Juliana , Chaves Mariana M. , Vaselek Slavica , Miserani Magalhães Rubens D. , Ricci-Azevedo Rafael , de Carvalho Renan V. H. , Lorenzon Lucas B. , Ferreira Tiago R. , Zamboni Dario , Walrad Pegine B. , Volf Petr , Sacks David L. , Cruz Angela K.
Published: March 2021

Leishmania majoris the main causative agent of cutaneous leishmaniasis in the Old World. InLeishmaniaparasites, the lack of transcriptional control is mostly compensated by post-transcriptional mechanisms. Methylation of arginine is a conserved post-translational modification executed by Protein Arginine Methyltransferase (PRMTs). The genome fromL.majorencodes five PRMT homologs, including the cytosolic protein associated with several RNA-binding proteins,LmjPRMT7. It has been previously reported thatLmjPRMT7could impact parasite infectivity. In addition, a more recent work has clearly shown the importance ofLmjPRMT7in RNA-binding capacity and protein stability of methylation targets, demonstrating the role of this enzyme as an important epigenetic regulator of mRNA metabolism. In this study, we unveil the impact of PRMT7-mediated methylation on parasite development and virulence. Our data reveals that higher levels ofLmjPRMT7can impair parasite pathogenicity, and that deletion of this enzyme rescues the pathogenic phenotype of an attenuated strain ofL.major. Interestingly, lesion formation caused byLmjPRMT7knockout parasites is associated with an exacerbated inflammatory reaction in the tissue correlated with an excessive neutrophil recruitment. Moreover, the absence ofLmjPRMT7 also impairs parasite development within the sand fly vectorPhlebotomus duboscqi. Finally, a transcriptome analysis shed light onto possible genes affected by depletion of this enzyme. Taken together, this study highlights how post-transcriptional regulation can affect different aspects of the parasite biology.
Modeling and optimization of the terminal control area with holding unit
Authors: Han Yun-Xiang
Published: March 2021

Aiming at the problem of resource allocation for departure flights at congested airports, this research explores the optimal configuration of holding units in the terminal control area (TCA). Similar to the job-shop scheduling problem, this problem is solved through a max-plus model with additional constraints. In particular, two optimization models are constructed, in which air segments, departure fixes and holding units are explicitly modeled. Based on the realistic airspace network selected, the proposed models are tested using actual flight data. The experimental results show that the models proposed have better qualities compared with the other methods.
Intention to voluntary blood donation among private higher education students, Jimma town, Oromia, Ethiopia: Application of the theory of planned behaviour
Authors: Aschale Abiot , Fufa Diriba , Kekeba Tilahun , Birhanu Zewdie
Published: March 2021

Background

Blood is an important and crucial component in the management of patients presenting with severe accident injuries, surgical conditions, malignancies, pregnancy-related complications, and other medical conditions.

Objectives

To assess intention to voluntary blood donation among private higher education students in Jimma Town, South West Ethiopia, 2019.

Methods

Institution-based cross-sectional study with quantitative methods was conducted in private higher education students in Jimma town. A multistage sampling technique was used to recruit study participants. First, a simple random sampling technique was used to select departments in each private higher education institution. Seven departments were included in the study and after proportionally allocated in each department, a total of 595 were participated in the study, producing a response rate of 98%. The data was collected using self-administered structured questioners with 3 trained data collectors. Multivariable linear regression analysis was done to assess association between the independent variables and dependent variable.

Results

The mean score for intention of the respondents to donate blood voluntarily was 15.41 out of 25 with standard deviation of 4.42.The TPB variables explained 61.3% of the variance of intention to donate blood. Direct perceived behavioral control (β = 0.745, P < 0.001), direct attitude (B = 0.295, P<0.001) and direct subjective norm (β = 0.131, P< 0.001) were significant predictors of the intention.

Conclusion

Respondents’ intentions are mainly determined by perceived barriers and, subjective norms, the attitude of respondents towards voluntary blood donation.
IL-6 promotes MYC-induced B cell lymphomagenesis independent of STAT3
Authors: Petrenko Oleksi , Li Jinyu , Cimica Velasco , Mena-Taboada Patricio , Shin Ha Youn , D’Amico Stephen , Reich Nancy C.
Published: March 2021

The inflammatory cytokine IL-6 is known to play a causal role in the promotion of cancer, although the underlying mechanisms remain to be completely understood. Interplay between endogenous and environmental cues determines the fate of cancer development. The Eμ-myc transgenic mouse expresses elevated levels of c-Myc in the B cell lineage and develops B cell lymphomas with associated mutations in p53 or other genes linked to apoptosis. We generated Eμ-myc mice that either lacked the IL-6 gene, or lacked the STAT3 gene specifically in B cells to determine the role of the IL-6/JAK/STAT3 pathway in tumor development. Using the Eμ-myc lymphoma mouse model, we demonstrate that IL-6 is a critical tumor promoter during early stages of B cell lymphomagenesis. IL-6 is shown to inhibit the expression of tumor suppressors, notably BIM and PTEN, and this may contribute to advancing MYC-driven B cell tumorigenesis. Several miRNAs known to target BIM and PTEN are upregulated by IL-6 and likely lead to the stable suppression of pro-apoptotic pathways early during the tumorigenic process. STAT3, a classical downstream effector of IL-6, appears dispensable for Eμ-myc driven lymphomagenesis. We conclude that the growth-promoting and anti-apoptotic mechanisms activated by IL-6 are critically involved in Eμ-myc driven tumor initiation and progression, but the B cell intrinsic expression of STAT3 is not required.
Assessment of anammox, microalgae and white-rot fungi-based processes for the treatment of textile wastewater
Authors: Bellucci Micol , Marazzi Francesca , Musatti Alida , Fornaroli Riccardo , Turolla Andrea , Visigalli Simone , Bargna Martina , Bergna Giovanni , Canziani Roberto , Mezzanotte Valeria , Rollini Manuela , Ficara Elena
Published: March 2021

The treatability of seven wastewater samples generated by a textile digital printing industry was evaluated by employing 1) anammox-based processes for nitrogen removal 2) microalgae (Chlorella vulgaris) for nutrient uptake and biomass production 3) white-rot fungi (Pleurotus ostreatus and Phanerochaete chrysosporium) for decolorization and laccase activity. The biodegradative potential of each type of organism was determined in batch tests and correlated with the main characteristics of the textile wastewaters through statistical analyses. The maximum specific anammox activity ranged between 0.1 and 0.2 g N g VSS-1 d-1 depending on the sample of wastewater; the photosynthetic efficiency of the microalgae decreased up to 50% during the first 24 hours of contact with the textile wastewaters, but it improved from then on; Pleurotus ostreatus synthetized laccases and removed between 20–62% of the colour after 14 days, while the enzymatic activity of Phanerochaete chrysosporium was inhibited. Overall, the findings suggest that all microbes have great potential for the treatment and valorisation of textile wastewater after tailored adaptation phases. Yet, the depurative efficiency can be probably enhanced by combining the different processes in sequence.
Variable host responses mediate host preference in marine flatworm−snail symbioses
Authors: Lee Juhyung , Davidson Timothy M. , Torchin Mark E.
Published: March 2021

Host preference of symbionts evolves from fitness trade-offs. However, it is often unclear how interspecific variations in host response traits influence this evolutionary process. Using the association between the polyclad flatworm Paraprostatum echinolittorinae and its intertidal snail hosts on the Pacific Coast of Panama, we assessed how a symbiont’s host preference is associated with varying host defenses and post-infestation performances. We first characterized the prevalence and intensity of worm infestation in five snail hosts (Tegula pellisserpentis, Nerita scabricosta, N. funiculata, Planaxis planicostatus, and Cerithium stercusmuscarum). We then used manipulative experiments to test flatworm’s host choice, hosts’ behavioral rejection of flatworms, and hosts’ growth and survival following the infestation. In the field, flatworms were orders of magnitude more prevalent and dense in T. pellisserpentis, N. scabricosta, N. funiculata than P. planicostatus and C. stercusmuscarum, although the three former hosts were not necessarily more abundant. The results from our laboratory host selection trials mirrored these patterns; flatworms were 3 to 14 times more likely to choose T. pellisserpentis, N. scabricosta, N. funiculata over P. planicostatus and C. stercusmuscarum. The less preferred hosts frequently rejected flatworms via mantle contractions and foot withdrawals, which reduced the infestation rate by 39%−67%. These behaviors were less frequent or absent in the preferred hosts. Flatworm infestation variably influenced host performances in the field, negligibly affecting the growth and survival of T. pellisserpentis and N. funiculata but reducing the growth of P. planicostatus. Flatworms thus preferred less defended hosts that can also support higher worm densities without being harmed. Stable isotope analysis further revealed that flatworms are unlikely to feed on snail tissues and may live as a commensal in their preferred hosts. Our study demonstrates that host response traits can modulate a symbiont’s host choice and calls for more explicit considerations of host response variability in host preference research.
Stable isotope analysis of human bone from Ganj Dareh, Iran, ca. 10,100 calBP
Authors: Merrett Deborah C. , Cheung Christina , Meiklejohn Christopher , Richards Michael P.
Published: March 2021

We report here on stable carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur isotope values from bone collagen of human (n = 20) and faunal (n = 11) remains from the Early Neolithic site of Ganj Dareh, Iran, dating to ca. 10,100 cal. BP. Our focus explores how isotope values of human bone vary by age and sex, and evaluates dietary practices at this site. It also provides a baseline for future studies of subsistence in the early Holocene Central Zagros Mountains, from the site with the first evidence for human ovicaprid management in the Near East. Human remains include individuals of all age groups for dietary reconstruction, as well two Ottoman intrusive burials for temporal and cultural comparison. All analyzed individuals exhibitedδ13C andδ15N values consistent with a diet based heavily on C3terrestrial sources. There is no statistically significant difference between the isotopic compositions of the two sexes, though males appear to show larger variations compared to females. Interesting patterns in the isotopic compositions of the subadults suggested weaning children may be fed with supplements with distinctiveδ13C values. Significant difference in sulfur isotope values between humans and fauna could be the earliest evidence of transhumance and could identify one older adult male as a possible transhumant shepherd. Both Ottoman individuals had distinctively differentδ13C,δ15N, andδ34S values compared to the Neolithic individuals. This is the first large scale analysis of human stable isotopes from the eastern end of the early Holocene Fertile Crescent. It provides a baseline for future intersite exploration of stable isotopes and insight into the lifeways, health, and processes of neolithisation associated with the origins of goat domestication at Ganj Dareh and the surrounding Central Zagros.
Tinnitus and associations with chronic pain: The population-based Tromsø Study (2015–2016)
Authors: Ausland Jannike H-L , Engdahl Bo , Oftedal Bente , Steingrímsdóttir Ólöf A. , Nielsen Christopher S. , Hopstock Laila A. , Johnsen Magnar , Friborg Oddgeir , Rosenvinge Jan H. , Eggen Anne E. , Krog Norun H.
Published: March 2021

Tinnitus and pain have many similarities. Both are subjective sensations that may turn chronic, they are often accompanied by hypersensitivity in their respective sensory system, and overlapping brain changes have been observed. Since no population study has examined the empirical association between chronic pain and tinnitus, the present study aimed to explore the relationship in a general adult population. We used data from the seventh survey of the Tromsø Study (2015–2016). Participants (aged ≥40) responded to questions about pain and tinnitus. Using multiple logistic regression, we analysed the adjusted relationship between chronic pain and tinnitus in the full sample (n = 19,039), using several tinnitus definitions ranging from tinnitus >5 minutes within the past 12 months (broadest definition) to at least weekly and highly bothersome tinnitus (strictest definition). We also analysed relationships between number of body regions with pain, pain intensity and bothering, and tinnitus >5 minutes, among participants with chronic pain (n = 11,589). We found an association between chronic pain and tinnitus that was present irrespective of tinnitus definition, but was stronger with more bothersome tinnitus. With chronic pain, the odds of tinnitus >5 minutes was 64% higher, while odds of at least weekly, highly bothersome tinnitus was 144% higher than without chronic pain. Among participants with chronic pain, the number of pain regions was the pain variable most strongly associated with tinnitus >5 minutes (OR = 1.17 (95% CI: 1.14–1.20) for an increase of one region), whereas the other pain variables (intensity and bothering) showed weaker associations. All chronic pain variables had significant interactions with age, with the strongest associations for the youngest individuals (40–54 years). Our findings support the existence of an association between chronic pain and tinnitus and emphasises the importance of examining for comorbid pain in tinnitus patients to provide a more comprehensive treatment of tinnitus.
Resistin is a risk factor for all-cause mortality in elderly Finnish population: A prospective study in the OPERA cohort
Authors: Parkkila Karri , Kiviniemi Antti , Tulppo Mikko , Perkiömäki Juha , Kesäniemi Y. Antero , Ukkola Olavi
Published: March 2021

Objective

Resistin is a small, cysteine-rich proinflammatory molecule that is primarily secreted by peripheral blood mononuclear cells and macrophages in humans. Previous studies have shown resistin to participate in various pathological processes including atherosclerosis and cancer progression but not many studies have assessed the role of resistin as a risk factor for all-cause mortality. The objective of this prospective study was to evaluate whether resistin predicts mortality among elderly Finnish people.

Methods

The study population consisted of 599 elderly (71.7 ± 5.4 years) patients and the follow-up was approximately six years. A thorough clinical examination including anthropometric and other clinical measurements such as blood pressure as well as various laboratory parameters (including resistin) was conducted at baseline.

Results

After the follow-up, 65 (11%) of the patients died. Resistin was a significant risk factor for all-cause mortality (HR 3.02, 95% CI: 1.64–5.56, p<0.001) when the highest tertile was compared to the lowest. Resistin remained as a significant risk factor even after adjusting for various covariates such as age, sex, systolic blood pressure, smoking habits, alcohol consumption, medications (antihypertensive, lipid-lowering, glucose-lowering), hsCRP and leisure time physical activity. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis for resistin demonstrated area under the curve (AUC) of 0.656 (95% CI: 0.577–0.734), p<0.001 and an optimal cutoff value of 12.88 ng/ml.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that resistin is a significant risk factor for all-cause mortality among elderly Finnish subjects, independent from traditional cardiovascular risk factors.
Complexome profile of Toxoplasma gondii mitochondria identifies divergent subunits of respiratory chain complexes including new subunits of cytochrome bc1 complex
Authors: Maclean Andrew E. , Bridges Hannah R. , Silva Mariana F. , Ding Shujing , Ovciarikova Jana , Hirst Judy , Sheiner Lilach
Published: March 2021

The mitochondrial electron transport chain (mETC) and F1Fo-ATP synthase are of central importance for energy and metabolism in eukaryotic cells. The Apicomplexa, important pathogens of humans causing diseases such as toxoplasmosis and malaria, depend on their mETC in every known stage of their complicated life cycles. Here, using a complexome profiling proteomic approach, we have characterised the Toxoplasma mETC complexes and F1Fo-ATP synthase. We identified and assigned 60 proteins to complexes II, IV and F1Fo-ATP synthase of Toxoplasma, of which 16 have not been identified previously. Notably, our complexome profile elucidates the composition of the Toxoplasma complex III, the target of clinically used drugs such as atovaquone. We identified two new homologous subunits and two new parasite-specific subunits, one of which is broadly conserved in myzozoans. We demonstrate all four proteins are essential for complex III stability and parasite growth, and show their depletion leads to decreased mitochondrial potential, supporting their assignment as complex III subunits. Our study highlights the divergent subunit composition of the apicomplexan mETC and F1Fo-ATP synthase complexes and sets the stage for future structural and drug discovery studies.
Covid-19 and Presidential Popularity in Latin America
Authors: Sosa-Villagarcia Paolo , Hurtado Lozada Verónica
Published: March 2021

The current pandemic challenged political leaders. As governments introduced containment policies, presidential approvals in several countries started to rise. This phenomenon brought back the discussion on the Rally-’round-the-Flag effect, which refers to the public's propensity to put aside political differences and support presidents during episodes of international crises. By focusing on four Latin American presidents, we analyze such effect and the conditions that mediate it, considering its significant variation in the region. We propose that the change in presidential popularity is short-lived and ultimately conditioned by the timing and stringency of the policy responses, the pandemic's framing, and the opposition's opportunities for policy criticism.
The vulnerary potential of botanical medicines in the treatment of bacterial pathologies in fish
Authors: Nurzhanova Farida , Absatirov Gaisa , Sidikhov Bekzhasar , Sidorchuk Alexander , Ginayatov Nurbek , Murzabaev Kenzhebek
Published: March 2021

Background and Aim: The use of plant-based medicine in treating and preventing fish disease has become increasingly popular due to the resistance of bacterial pathogens to chemicals widely used in aquaculture. This study explored the vulnerary effect of botanical medicines made from local raw materials (greater celandine [Chelidonium majus L.], St. John's wort [Hypericum perforatum L.], and bur beggar-ticks [Bidens tripartita L.]) in the treatment of sturgeon bacterial pathologies in a controlled environment.

Materials and Methods: The vulnerary activity of herbal infusions was studied on spontaneously infected fish by assessing the degree of wound healing at regular intervals: The state of the wound, reduction of the wound surface area, the formation of granulation tissue, epithelization, and wound contraction.

Results: A positive vulnerary effect of C. majus, H. perforatum, and B. tripartita was observed, consistent with the use of these plants in folk and traditional medicine. The plant materials eliminated infection, had anti-inflammatory and vulnerary effects, stimulated granulation tissue development, and enhanced regeneration. Compared with widely accepted methods (antibiotics and other chemotherapeutic agents), botanical medicine facilitated more effective treatment over the same period without side effects.

Conclusion: Practical use and the results of this study show the potential of using herbal infusions for therapeutic purposes in aquaculture.
Peri-parturient hypocalcemia in goats: Clinical, hematobiochemical profiles and ultrasonographic measurements of postpartum uterine involution
Authors: Bayoumi Yasmin H. , Behairy Amany , Abdallah Asmaa A. , Attia Noura E.
Published: March 2021

Background and Aim: Hypocalcemia in goats occurs around the time of parturition and is caused by decreasing level of calcium less than 10 mg/dL. This investigation characterized the hematological and biochemical profiles of peri-parturient hypocalcemia in goats and study the effects of hypocalcemia on uterine involution during the postpartum period on day 0 and then weekly postpartum (day +7, +14, +21, +28, +35, till +42). Materials and Methods: Forty-five polyparous native breed does age 3-5 years and weighing 40–60 kg were assigned to control and hypocalcemia groups based on their health history, clinical and biochemical findings. The control group included 10 clinically healthy pregnant does, and the hypocalcemia group included 35 late pregnant does that suffered from anorexia, weakness, muscle tremors of the hind limbs, and an inability to stand. Clinical examination and blood sampling in both groups were performed approximately 14 days before the expected time of kidding (day–14), at kidding day (day 0), on day +21, and +42 postpartum. Sonographic measurements were used to monitor uterine involution on day 0 and then weekly once the animal was postpartum (day +7, +14, +21, +28, +35, till +42) in both groups. Results: Results of sonographic measurement revealed that the hypocalcemia group had a greater (p<0.05) size of the uterus as assessed transrectally and retarded uterine involution when compared with the control group. Laboratory findings revealed that does in both groups showed lower red blood cells, packed cell volume%, and hemoglobin (Hb) concentrations on day –14 before kidding and day 0 when compared with postpartum measurements. A significant increase (p<0.05) in total leukocyte counts, neutrophil, serum glucose, and cortisol levels with a significant decrease (p<0.05) in lymphocytes. Significant decreases (p<0.05) in serum calcium, phosphorous, vitamin D, and total antioxidant capacity levels with significant (p<0.05) increases in serum malondialdehyde were recorded on day 0 and day –14 in the hypocalcemia group when compared with the control group. Conclusion: This investigation provides evidence that hypocalcemia in does causes both metabolic and oxidative stress during peri-parturient periods while also retarding uterine involution during postpartum periods.
O uso de métodos estatísticos na pesquisa científica em turismo no Brasil
Authors: Santos Glauber Eduardo de Oliveira , Bíscaro Vinícius Rocha , Silva Marina Monteiro da , Doro João Ricardo Lopes
Published: March 2021

Ainda que o número de pesquisas qualitativas nos periódicos científicos internacionais de turismo esteja crescendo, as pesquisas quantitativas são claramente predominantes. Partindo dessa constatação preliminar, o presente artigo objetiva examinar o uso de métodos estatísticos para a análise de dados nas pesquisas em turismo no Brasil. Este trabalho examinou o uso de métodos estatísticos inferenciais ou multivariados para a análise de dados nas pesquisas publicadas na forma de artigos em três dos principais periódicos científicos brasileiros de turismo – Revista Brasileira de Pesquisa em Turismo (RBTUR), Revista Turismo em Análise (RTA) e Revista Turismo – Visão e Ação (RTVA). Foram selecionados todos os artigos publicados ao longo de dois períodos distintos de sete anos cada: o inicial (1990-96) e o mais recente (2012-18). Os métodos utilizados foram retratados por meio de estatísticas descritivas. Os resultados mostram que a pesquisa brasileira faz pouco uso de métodos estatísticos avançados em comparação com a prática corrente nos principais periódicos científicos internacionais da área. Ademais, a lista de métodos estatísticos mais frequentes revela uma tendência de aprimoramento e complexidade metodológica da pesquisa em turismo no país. Os métodos atualmente mais empregados são aqueles relacionados à análise de variáveis latentes, como a análise fatorial e a modelagem de equações estruturais. Por outro lado, uma vasta gama de alternativas metodológicas não tem sido explorada. Dessa forma, a pesquisa aponta para a existência de diversas oportunidades de inovação e aprimoramento metodológico das pesquisas em turismo no Brasil.
Análise bibliográfica e sistemática da literatura acadêmica sobre “cidades inteligentes”, “turismo” e “competitividade”
Authors: Mazo Alex Mauricio , Oliveira Renata Kazys de , Biancolino César Augusto , Tomazzoni Edegar Luis
Published: March 2021

Cidades Inteligentes (Smart Cities) têm sido tema de pesquisa na busca por soluções nas mais diversas áreas do conhecimento e da economia e, na atividade turística, não tem sido diferente, com destinos que têm se apropriado cada vez mais da infraestrutura tecnológica, gerando competitividade em turismo. Nesse sentido, este estudo tem como objetivo geral analisar, na literatura acadêmica atual, a evolução dos conceitos “Cidades Inteligentes”, “Turismo” e “Competitividade”. A metodologia consistiu em pesquisa bibliográfica e análise sistemática, por meio de revisão longitudinal comparativa dos últimos dez anos. O estudo mostra e compara a busca por artigos nacionais e internacionais em bases consolidadas, que contenham uma interligação entre os termos. Por um lado, os resultados apontam um crescimento no que diz respeito ao termo “Cidade Inteligente”, mas, por outro lado, mostram que a ligação dos termos não reproduz a perspectiva positiva nas pesquisas. Nacionalmente, os dados coletados não foram suficientes para análises criteriosas em nenhum dos termos e, muito menos, na ligação entre eles e, com isso, conclui-se que, diante da relevância dos termos, existe uma defasagem na produção dos trabalhos nacionais e internacionais.
A sustentabilidade e a hotelaria carioca: Critérios para um desenvolvimento integrado e participativo
Authors: Santos Rodrigo Amado dos , Almeida Ruan Santana Montenegro de , Miranda Luiz Felipe
Published: March 2021

Os debates sobre gestões sustentáveis tornam-se notórios à contemporaneidade. Essa perspectiva é justificada graças aos gestores necessitarem lidar: com um público-alvo mais consciente dos limites a serem impostos ao uso dos recursos naturais/culturais; e com o impacto negativo de suas operacionalizações sobre o meio ambiente e a sociedade. Essa premissa é ainda mais imperativa em atividades cujo poder de transformação socioambiental, cultural e econômico é cada vez mais latente, como é o caso da hotelaria. Desse modo, objetivou-se apresentar procedimentos, técnicas e/ou condutas necessários para a execução de 39 critérios para a promoção de uma hotelaria sustentável. Assim, um estudo qualitativo foi elaborado, embasado nas métricas de multicaso e entrevistas em profundidade. Participaram destas entrevistas três gestores hoteleiros – 02 gerentes gerais e 01 supervisora de RH – e um representante do Ministério do Turismo, coordenador do Grupo Turismo Sustentável – ISO. A partir de suas experiências, foram estruturadas descrições que auxiliarão a operacionalização de cada critério, de forma a garantir uma gestão hoteleira holística, integrada e participativa.
THE IMPACTS OF COVID-19 ON TRAVEL BY BRAZILIAN TOURISTS: CONJUNCTURE AND PERSPECTIVES ON THE OUTBREAK AND EXPANSION OF THE PANDEMIC IN BRAZIL
Authors: Neves Christopher Smith Bignardi , Carvalho Isabele De Souza , Souza Wellyngton Fernando Leonel De , Filippim Marcos Luiz
Published: March 2021

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared, in 2020, a state of pandemic related to COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019). This study describes the characteristics of the epidemic and summarizes its forecast impacts on the tourism and travel sector, according to international organizations. The objective is to measure the impacts of the pandemic on travel and tourism, from the perspective of Brazilian consumers who were traveling, or intending to travel during the time of the spread of the disease. The specific objectives are: To identify impacts on current or scheduled trips; to describe how Brazilian tourists evaluate public measures and policies to mitigate the impacts on tourism; and to identify the perspective of respondents in relation to the practice of tourism and travel in the period after the outbreak. The methodology used was exploratory research, and a quantitative approach was used, with a websurvey design applied in April 2020. The results indicate that 69.51% of the respondents were directly impacted by the pandemic, with high levels of interference, resulting in them having to postpone their planned trips. The Participants supported social distancing measures, perceived that the pandemic had impacted on tourism, and took the view that it will only be safe to return to travel after more than six months. It is estimated that at the end of the pandemic, tourism may contribute to socioeconomic recovery.
Tourism and management of public investments: an analysis of the tourist regions of Rio Grande do Norte – Brazil 2003/2016
Authors: Silva Rodrigo Cardoso da , Fonseca Maria Aparecida Pontes da , Borges Aylana Laissa Medeiros
Published: March 2021

Management and efficiency in the use of public resources has gained prominence in recent decades, and is now one of the main areas of social demand. Thus, any government action in an area of social and economic interest tends to be questioned, and tourism is no exception. In 2019, the Ministry of Tourism (MTur) completed more than fifteen years in operation and began to draw up long-term policies aimed at regional development, income distribution, and increased economic opportunities. This work aims to analyze the public investments of MTur in the tourism regions of the state of Rio Grande do Norte (RN), seeking to contribute to the discussion on the public budget, efficiency and development of tourism. It presents a quantitative approach linked to descriptive purposes, using the MTur’s Transfer Contracts System (SIACOR) as its main source of data. The main results of this research are that there is a spatial selectivity of public investments, with some municipalities being prioritized over others. Also, a considerable portion of the resources is concentrated in urbanization and infrastructure works, while there were few management actions to promote tourism activity in tourism regions. Finally, it was found that considerable investments are made without any technical guidance, which means that in many cases, actions to promote tourism are impossible. It was also identified that resources are applied in an inefficient way, as many contracts for the transfer of funds are never applied.
Guest satisfaction in relation to food services at resorts in the Caribbean and Brazil
Authors: Vogel Douglas Ricardo , Wouters Rafael André , Anjos Sara Joana Gadotti dos , Limberger Pablo Flores
Published: March 2021

Satisfaction with food services is an important part of Online Travel Reviews (OTR) of resorts. These services can attract and retain guests, or drive them away, as well as influencing perceived satisfaction with the accommodation itself. The aim of this study is to analyze guest satisfaction in resort hotels, in relation to the food services offered during their stay. The methodology used in this qualitative and quantitative study was an analysis of satisfaction with the food services, based on 1600 OTRs posted on the TripAdvisor website, by guests of ten resorts located in Brazil and the Caribbean. The analysis focused on guests’ overall satisfaction, with breakfast, lunch, dinner, and bar services. The OTR were analyzed based in four categories: physical aspects of the establishment, quality of the food, quality of the service, and quality of the providers. The analysis showed that there are no differences in the aspects observed by guests of resorts in the Caribbean and Brazil. The OTRs show no variations in responses between these two regions, with bar, dinner and lunch services being the ones most remembered by guests. Both physical and quality aspects of the food and the providers are relevant in the OTR. Resort managers should be especially attentive to their bar services, as the results indicated that much of the perception of food satisfaction is related to this aspect. To increase the chances of a positive OTR, the bar service should be excellent.
Aplicação do programa de regionalização do turismo em uma instância de governança regional no Estado do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil
Authors: Xavier Thiago Reis , Totti Kézia Ávila Soares , Raddatz Sandra Mari Flores
Published: March 2021

O presente estudo tem como objetivo analisar os mecanismos de governança turística do Fórum Regional de Turismo – Região Central, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Trata-se de uma Instância de Governança Regional instituída para atender aos objetivos do Plano Nacional de Turismo (PNT) e do Programa de Regionalização do Turismo (PRT), e inserir a Região Central do Rio Grande do Sul no mapa do turismo brasileiro elaborado pelo Ministério do Turismo. Para tal, foi realizado um estudo de caso, qualitativo e descritivo, conduzido por meio de um roteiro de entrevistas semiestruturado elaborado a partir do modelo teórico proposto por Xavier (2016). Ele é organizado em seis categorias que abordam variáveis como: contexto histórico e cultural (1); formalização e estrutura, normas e regras (2); interação entre os atores e uso dos recursos locais (3); poder, confiança, conflito e interesses (4); transparência e prestação de contas (5); e Padrão de Arranjo Institucional (6). Como fontes foram selecionados três atores que atuaram como coordenadores do Fórum Regional de Turismo entre 2011 e 2018. A interpretação e a análise dos dados seguiram a metodologia de análise de conteúdo. Como resultados, observou-se que a falta de um Estatuto e de Plano Regional de Turismo prejudica as ações do Fórum, especialmente no que diz respeito à obtenção de recursos financeiros para desenvolvimentos de maiores práticas na região e elaboração de práticas conjuntas visando ao desenvolvimento do turismo regional. Sugerem-se a elaboração de um Plano Regional e a criação do estatuto interno, para que se possam viabilizar a formalização e as práticas de cooperação no âmbito do Fórum.