bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seismic Damage Assessment of Deficient Reinforced Concrete Frame Structures
Authors: Rizwan Muhammad , Shah Syed Azmat Ali
Published: May 2021

In order to assess the seismic damage response of reinforced concrete deficient, weak beam-column connection frame structures, this study presents experimental shake table testing on representative 1/3rd reduced size and double story frame models. Two test models were considered for experimental testing, including a reference code design specimen and another frame with a similar characteristic, but was not provided with any shear reinforcement in the critical joint connection region and, was constructed with concrete having a compressive strength of 33 % less than the code specified value. The input scaled excitations were applied from 5 % to 130 % of the maximum input peak ground acceleration record, to deformed the test models from elastic to inelastic stage and then to fully plastic incipient collapse stage. The weak beam-column frame sustained plastic hinging at column bases and beam ends, with longitudinal reinforcement bar-slip and severe damageability of the joint panels upon subjected to multiple dynamic excitations. The deficient frame model was only able to resist 40 % of the maximum acceleration record as compared to the code design frame which was able to resist about 130 %.
Identifying the Presence of Natural Radionuclides in Ashlar Samples
Authors: Arenas Elfer , Martínez Jorge , Guillen Mercedes Vilca , Fernandez Alicia , Fernandez Enrique , Quindos Luis
Published: May 2021

Humans have always been exposed to different types of natural and cosmic radiation. At present we experience 83 % natural radiation, for example from granite marbles, building materials such as concrete, brick, granite, or drywall. However, although these are potential sources of radon, they are rarely the cause of a high level of pollution in a building.Ashlar is a material of volcanic origin comprising heterogeneous and solidified detrital pyroclastic materials such as rhyolite, sand, volcanic ash and pumice, among others. Chemically, ashlar is principally composed of elements such as sodium, magnesium, calcium, iron, aluminum, sulfur, and cobalt. In order to identify the presence of these elements in the ashlar, X-ray Fluorescence studies were carried out first, using modern XRD and XRF equipment, followed by quantitative analysis using a neutron activation technique, and finally, low-level gamma spectrometry to evaluate the presence of radioactive elements.
Estimating Flood Inundation Depth Along the Arterial Road Based on the Rainfall Intensity
Authors: Suharyanto Agus
Published: May 2021

This study identifies the rainfall intensity that causes the flood along the arterial road connecting Malang to Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia, estimates flood occurrences based on the recorded rainfall data, and proposes the normalization of the side ditch to reduce flood occurrences. The Nakayasu synthetic unit hydrograph was used to analyze the runoff discharge, and the Hydrologic Engineering Center’s River Analysis System software was used to analyze the water level profile of the side ditch. The regression method was used to determine the relationship between the rainfall intensity and inundation depth along the arterial road. Analysis results show that floods occur if the rainfall intensity is ≥1.01 year return period. To estimate the flood inundation depth, simple linear regression was conducted herein. Furthermore, it was observed that flood occurrences can be avoided by normalizing the side ditch cross section with a fully rectangular shape having a channel bottom elevation equal to the existing elevation.
Life Cycle Cost Optimization of Residential Buildings in Bulgaria: a Case Study of the Building Envelope
Authors: Doseva Nadezhda , Chakyrova Daniela
Published: May 2021

Around 60 % of residential buildings in Bulgaria are constructed before the Nineties of the last century, i.e. they have been in use for more than 30 years. Furthermore, the final energy consumption of Bulgarian residential buildings is the highest in Europe. This raises the question of the improvement of the energy performance of existing residential buildings. The current study is intended to assess the influence of the heat transmittance coefficient of the external building envelop elements on the annual energy consumption for heating and cooling and finding its optimal value. Life-cycle cost (LCC) as the optimization criterion is using. The optimization procedure is conducted for the climatic and economic conditions in Bulgaria and taking into account the existing legal framework. The minimum of the building life cycle costs is determined by using a genetic algorithm.
Nonlinear Finite Element Analysis of Reinforced and Plain Concrete Haunched Beams Under Torsion
Authors: Jebur Hamzah Sabah
Published: May 2021

The present paper is focused on analysis of reinforced and plain concrete haunched beam under torsion based on non-linear finite element analysis NLFEA approach. Ten cantilever beams (five of them are steel reinforced and the rest are not reinforced) were modelled by using ANSYS software with different haunched angles to achieve the purpose of the present study. The verification was done for two prismatic beams under torsion, and two reinforced concrete haunched beams (RCHBs) under static shear load to ensure the correctness of modelling. The verification work illustrated a good agreement between the NLFEA results by using ANSYS and previous experimental work results. No specific details in torsional design for RCHB in many codes, and no/very less works have done regarding analysis or design of RCHB under torsion. The main purpose of the present work is checking the capability of using ACI-318 code in analysis and design of concrete haunched beam for torsion. The presented paper confirms the validation of using ACI-318-2019 in analysis and design of RCHB and plain concrete haunched beam PCHB as well, where the FEA results by using ANSYS were at accuracy not less than 92 % with the ACI-318-2019 results for all specimens. The torsional mechanism failure and shear stresses distribution of RCHB are discussed in the present paper.
A Model - Based Approach for Leak Detection in Water Distribution Networks Based on Optimisation and GIS Applications
Authors: Ayad A. , Khalifa A. , Fawy M.
Published: May 2021

This paper describes the development of an integrated approach for water pipe network calibration and quantifying leaks. The approach merges both field measurements and linear programming to pinpoint pipe leaks (physical losses); then applies Genetic Algorithms (GA) to identify faulty meters and meter thefts (apparent losses). Besides; throughout the process, GIS is used for input data integration and output representation. The developed model is based on GA but is different in its representation, introducing a new adaptive constraint handling function and a new mutation function. Also, the use of floating-point representation enables the calibration of a large number of unknown parameters without compromising the accuracy and precision of the solutions. While the newly introduced constraint handling function robust the solution towards a near level of agreement between real and calculated values. A pilot site is used to test the model and approach, comparing before and after field results to ensure accuracy. The model integrates EPAnet for the required hydraulic modeling during the simulation. The results prove the approach’s accuracy and efficiency.
The Impact of Ventilation and Shading Control on the Result of Summer Overheating Simulation
Authors: Ponechal Radoslav , Chabada Marek
Published: May 2021

The most suitable methods for increasing the climate resistance of buildings on hot summer days are intensive ventilation and effective external shading. However, it is possible to discuss what kind of approach used, while simulating the control of these two elements in energy simulation programs, to make the result as much representative as possible. We created and compared three different control modes for this purpose. The basic mode represented models created from monitoring of habits of building users, while the second mode represented an automatic system based on sensory control. The third mode represented models that provide an early warning system against a series of hot days. They intervene in windows and blinds control for a several days in advance. The base mode using the schedules reached more than 2 °C higher maximum indoor air temperature than the two others in a direct comparison of these three systems by simulating a simple building. It also has been shown that with a relatively simple early warning system, it would be possible to replace an even more complex automatic system.
Quality Gaps in Higher Education from the Perspective of Students
Authors: Grudowski Piotr , Szczepańska Katarzyna
Published: May 2021

The presented research work relates to the category of quality in higher education. This article aims to present the determinants of the quality of education in the context of international standards. The background of the considerations is the Bologna Declaration and the European Higher Education Area. The results of the research carried out with the use of the nominal group method and the data analysis carried out based on the SERVQUAL model for education revealed groups of quality determinants that are not included in the standards of internal quality assurance. It has been found that the principle of autonomy of universities in the European Higher Education Area is a sufficient basis to include the determinants of the quality of education identified by internal stakeholders of a given university in the internal quality of education assurance system.
Sports Information Systems: A systematic review
Authors: Blobel Thomas , Rumo Martin , Lames Martin
Published: May 2021

Many professional sport organizations are currently in the process of finding or already using sports information systems (SIS) to integrate data from different information and measurement systems. The problem is that requirements are very heterogeneous. That is why no consistent definition of SIS and their categories exist, and it is often not clear which fields and functions SIS must cover. This work aims to provide a structured comparison of commercial SIS available on the market to provide an overview of the relevant features and characterize categories. Following PRISMA guidelines, a systematic search for relevant SIS providers was conducted. A catalog of 164 review items was created to define relevant features of SIS and to conduct semi-standardized interviews with product representatives. Overall 36 eligible SIS from 11 countries were identified and 21 of them were interviewed. The analysis of the interviews has shown that there are features that are present in all SIS, whereas others differ or are generally less represented. As a result, different SIS categories have been defined. The study suggests a more differentiated categorization of SIS is necessary and terms need to be defined more precisely. This review should be considered when companies designing SIS or sport organizations select SIS.
White stork (Ciconia ciconia L.) as an indicator of natural environment status in agricultural areas, illustrated with an example of Masurian Landscape Park
Authors: Gotkiewicz Wojciech , Wittbrodt Krzysztof
Published: May 2021

The paper presents the results of a 5-year study on the population size of the white stork (Ciconia ciconia L.) as one of the indicator species used to assess a biodiversity level in agricultural areas. The study was carried out in Masurian Landscape Park situated in Warmińsko-Mazurskie Voivodeship. The results demonstrated that the white stork population size was closely linked to agricultural areas, in particular, the extensively managed permanent grassland. In the years 2014–2018, even if minor changes were observed in the land use structure, the white stork population size showed a slight upward trend within the study area. In order to maintain this status, efforts should be made to preserve open landscapes (first and foremost – meadows and pastures), which are preferred feeding grounds of white stork. Consequently, potential decision as regards afforestation and housing should be made considerately.
Effectiveness of endotracheal intubation among system nurses under simulated conditions – pilot studies
Authors: Wójcik Anna , Więch Paweł , Ożóg Barbara , Binkowska-Bury Monika , Bazaliński Dariusz
Published: May 2021

Introduction. Endotracheal intubation (ETI) may be a procedure necessary to perform by a nurse in the event of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). Its correct execution improves the course and organization of a rescue operation and contributes to increased self-confidence in stressful situations.

Aim. Assessment of the effectiveness of endotracheal intubation among system nurses under simulated conditions.

Material and methods. A pilot study of prospective observational simulation study using advanced evaluation tools for intubation phantom (BT-CSIE, Q’ty model) with a tablet (PC-1EA), IntuBrite laryngoscope with curved handle. The results were analyzed with Statistica PL 12.0 and Microsoft Office Excel 2016, using the Student’s t and chi-square tests.

Results. Nurses with specialization intubated twice faster (30.4 s) than nurses during specialization (68.8 s) or without specialization (67.5 s). The shortest time of inserting an endotracheal tube demonstrated subjects with over 10 years of work experience (37.0 s). The mean pressure on the incisors during the procedure was 10.9 N. Ventilation with an average tidal volume of 543 cm3 (p=0.024) was in line with the recommendations of the European Rescue Council (ERC).

Conclusions. Work seniority and specialization significantly affected the effectiveness of the intubation procedure in time, while maintaining the recommended frequency and volume of mechanical ventilations.
Expression and Localisation of CD44 Antigen as a Prognostic Factor of Oral Leukoplakia
Authors: Dzudzilo Madara , Kleina Regīna , Čēma Ingrīda , Dabuzinskiene Anita , Svirskis Šimons
Published: May 2021

It is essential to identify markers that could indicate the presence of early molecular changes in premalignant tissues like oral leukoplakia (OL). CD44 adhesion molecule is not only a stem cell marker, but also determines cell proliferation and migration in malignant processes. The aim of our study was to assess the amount and pattern of CD44 antigen expression by epithelial and mononuclear cells in the lamina propria under OL and their role in premalignant lesions. The current study included 102 cases of OL and ten biopsies from healthy oral mucosa. Immunohistochemical CD44 antigen expression was determined in 34 cases by a standard EnVision imaging system in three points of OL: both edges and centre. Statistical analysis was done using GraphPad Prism software version 8.4.0. In OL, statistically significant overexpression of membranous CD44 was demonstrated compared to healthy mucosa (p < 0.0001). The intra-cytoplasmatic CD44 expression of epithelium together with characteristic nuclear changes may be used as a predictive factor for potential malignant transformation of non-homogenous leukoplakia. CD44 expression in mononuclear cells under the basal membrane in OL (p < 0.05) possibly influences the process of premalignant lesion transformation into intraepithelial cancer. Further study of CD44 antigen expression in intra-cytoplasmatic structures is required for better explanation of the role of this glycoprotein.
Geochemical Fingerprinting pf Oil-Impacted Soil and Water Samples In Some Selected Areas in the Niger Delta
Authors: Adeniyi Adeola V. , Nton Matthew E. , Adebanjo Falode O.
Published: May 2021

With over 50 years of oil exploration and exploitation in the Niger Delta, there has been an increasing rate of environmental degradation due to hydrocarbon pollution. This study is aimed at tracing the sources of the oil spills and the distribution of pollutants in selected communities in the Niger Delta using geo-chemical techniques. A total of sixteen samples made up of ten crude oil-impacted soil samples taken at a depth of 30 cm and six water samples (two from boreholes, two from burrow pits and two from surface water – one from a river and the other from rain harvest as control) were collected. The identification and quantification of aliphatic hydrocarbons (AHs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the samples were performed with an Agilent 7890B gas chromatography flame ionisation detector (GCFID). The AHs including pristane and phytane, together with seventeen priority PAHs, were identified. The values of AHs and PAHs in the water samples ranged from 0.13 mg/l to 5.78 mg/l and 0.09 mg/l to 1.109 mg/l, respectively, while that for the soil samples ranged from 22.52 mg/kg to 929.44 mg/kg and 10.544 mg/kg to 16.879 mg/kg, respectively.
Paląca, ale niezaspokojona. O potrzebie dialogu obywatelskiego w kwestii przemocy w kontekście zabójstwa Pawła Adamowicza
Authors: Czapnik Sławomir
Published: May 2021

The aim of this paper is to draw attention to an urgent need of the civil dialogue about violence in Poland. Article starts with outlining of the „civil society” category. Next part is an analysis of the issue of social dialogue. Third part is devoted to the anxiety as a political capital. Then author focuses on the concept of violence. Last chapter is devoted to the methods of violence prevention.
Wymazywanie. Wpływ polityki pamięci na przestrzeń kulturową Ukrainy po roku 2014
Authors: Sułek Ewa
Published: May 2021

This paper examines the works of Ukrainian artists who comment on the current politics of memory in Ukraine, with the main focus on the artistic work of Nikita Kadan and David Chichkan, and the phenomenon of „Leninopad” – the demolition of monuments to Vladimir Lenin in Ukraine. Since the Maidan uprising in 2013/2014 and the subsequent attacks on the sovereignty and territory of Ukraine by Russia and the so called “pro-Russian separatists”, there has been intense debate on how to interpret not only Ukraine’s dramatic present, but also its complex and difficult past. The mechanism of forgetting about the Soviet past turned out to be particularly strong in Ukraine – forgetting by destroying, erasing, removing all physical remnants of the former system. The war for memory is taking place today with the destruction of Soviet monuments and other remnants of the soviet history. The practice of ideological correctness is continued through the amputation of „unwanted” elements. It is not possible to have a private memory of the history of the nation, it is always a memory imposed and constructed by people who have power. In Ukraine the future is to be built on the certain image of the past.
Socjopolityczne konteksty demonstrowania poglądów w przestrzeni miejskiej
Authors: Mikołajczyk Magdalena
Published: May 2021

The subject of analysis concerns forms and means of communicating political views by political groups with contrasting approaches, their visual representations. A lot is happening in the municipal sphere (and public in general), but only some of its elements are visible and only some confirm the divisions within the society, diverse interests of groups and classes, social inequality. The symbolism is highly interesting, although it has been discussed multiple times already. The use of available resources and the more or less noticeable artistry (or, on the contrary, triviality, kitsch) also draw attention. We can see people, draped monuments, posters and banners, effigies and representations of a non-figurative nature. It is all about raising interest, specifying identity, building alliances and a supporting auditorium. The aesthetics is to boost or disrupt, use its sociotechnical value. Writings on the walls have political content and various fonts, they appear in unexpected places. There are also differences in the visual reception of various audiences – participants of the events, municipal service forces, media representatives, engaged Internet users (engaged because they use the broadcast for agitation), even artists view the circumstances differently.
Populizm sztuki i artystów. Przypadek Polski od 2015 roku
Authors: Młyńczyk Łukasz
Published: May 2021

The traditionally ideological divisions allowed the old political entities (parties, social movements) to represent the right and left wing dichotomy. The simultaneous increase in the role of political liberalism has led to the replacement of the axes of economic, commercial, cultural and identity divisions with the concepts of normality and rationality (Zielonka 2018). Liberalism, in spite of the lack of literal and dominating party representation, has become the obligatory political code defining reality in terms of good and evil, leaving no option to choose an alternative beyond the position considered universal and desirable. Simultaneously, the monopoly of the legitimacy and moral superiority of the liberal political program was developed. Criticism from the opponents of that monopoly started to be known as populism. Artists mostly identified with the mainstream liberal views, as they offered them the opportunity to illustrate and educate the public. They also corresponded with their artistic sensitivity, openness to tolerance, the rule of law and democracy, as well as the independence and freedom of individuals. Since 2015 elections, the artistic milieus representing axiology similar or identical to Law and Justice / LaJ (Pol.: Prawo i Sprawiedliwość / PiS) have become strongly active. The party began to use the language representing the sensitivity of the people in contrast to the elites. Such populism was quickly treated as a position offering too quick solutions. The basic assumption shall be an attempt to verify the claim of the populism of art and artists standing against the authorities and supporting the LaJ power. The aim of the presentation shall be to overview the theoretical assumptions of this phenomenon in relation to art and its representatives, and to illustrate it with specific Polish examples from 2015 onwards.
Obraz ubóstwa w dyskursie prasowym
Authors: Kostecki Maciej
Published: May 2021

The article shows discourse about poverty in Gazeta Wyborcza in 2018. The author stresss out two ways of presenting that issue by the symbolic elites in that famous Polish newspaper. First of them involves structural reasons contected with poverty and emphasies solidarity with poor people. Second approach is dominated by argumentation with individual causes of being poor, contains neoliberal ideology and blaiming poor people for their status. The author uses Critical Discourse Analisys to explain that differences. Antother aim of this paper was to show what topics brings poverty issues in “Gazeta Wyborcza”, according to that reasarch writing about poverty in 2018 was contected with global problems such as war (Yemen, Ukraine), imigration crissis (Germany, USA, Mexico, Salvador), global warming and econimic crissis. Articles about poverty in Poland concentrated on social programs (Family 500 plus), homeless people, old age people. Also article shows summary of Polish papers contains discourse analisys about poverty.
Optimization of REMS Program Compliance in a Large Academic Health System
Authors: Kostrzewa Audrey B
Published: May 2021

Ensuring compliance with all applicable Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategies (REMS) programs within a health system is challenging. These FDA-mandated programs are numerous, unique, and ever-changing. Actions require several stakeholders and moving parts. In addition, the effectiveness and impact of these programs has been challenged and is not always clear, which hampers buy-in and therefore compliance.
F&MCW is a health network in southeastern Wisconsin that includes five hospitals and almost 40 clinics. Since 2014, several system-wide approaches to medication use, including formulary alignment and REMS program optimization, have taken place with an over-arching goal of providing efficient, safe, and consistent care for the patients and populations served.
This manuscript describes the steps that took place over the past six years or so related to REMS program optimization. It also offers practical tips for other health systems based on lessons learned through this one institution’s experiences.
Characterization of different types of petroleum refinery spent catalyst followed by microbial mediated leaching of metal values
Authors:   Department of Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Rajasthan, Rajasthan, India, Nagar Neha , Garg Himanshi ,   Department of Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Rajasthan, Rajasthan, India, Gahan Chandra Sekhar ,   Department of Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Rajasthan, Rajasthan, India
Published: May 2021

The present study aims for characterization and classification of five different spent petroleum refinery catalysts followed by metal recovery via bioleaching. The nomenclature given to the different spent catalyst (SC) is SC1, SC2, SC3, SC4 and SC5 collected from an Indian petroleum refinery. All spent catalysts were crushed and ground prior to their characterization by X-Ray Fluorescence for chemical composition followed by X-Ray Diffraction and Scanning Electron Microscopy-Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy for their mineralogy. Further, all five spent catalysts were classified based upon their chemical composition and mineralogy. Metal recovery from the spent catalysts was carried out by bioleaching by a mixed microbial consortium of iron and Sulphur oxidizing microorganisms. Most of the spent catalysts showed very significant metal recovery with respect to Ni, Cu, Cr, Mo, Zn, Sr and Ti. The study provides a possible metal recovery route via bioleaching for further testing and scaling up.
Cooperation and radio silence strategy in Mix Zone to Protect Location Privacy of Vehicle in VANET
Authors: Shaleesh Izdihar S. , Almohammedi Akram A. , Mohammad Naji I. , Ahmad Ali A. , Shepelev Vladimir
Published: May 2021

With increase in the population, the number of registered vehicles has dramatically increased over all the world, and this leads to a high rate of traffic accidents on the roads. Therefore, in order to prevent such accidents, an Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITSs) is needed to be installed to notify drivers of obstacles in advance. Recently, the Internet of things (IoT) evolves the vehicular communications and covers this technology under the Internet of vehicles (IoV) application. IoV is a new field for the automotive industry and a significant part of the smart cities. However, protecting the privacy of vehicle's location is the most challenging subject in the vehicular communication, as because it threatens the personal life of drivers. This paper provides cooperation and radio silence strategy in mix zone (CRSMZ) to protect location privacy of vehicle in IoV. The strategy implements either cooperation or radio silence depending on the speed of the vehicle while it is in mix _zone. The simulation results show that CRSMZ is an efficient strategy to protect location information of vehicle drivers. CRSMZ outperforms the existing strategies in terms of mean of the number tracker confusion, continuous tracking period and max of the entropy.
Usual Medical Care for Patellofemoral Pain Does Not Usually Involve Much Care: 2-Year Follow-up in the Military Health System
Authors: Young Jodi L. , Snodgrass Suzanne J. , Cleland Joshua A. , Rhon Daniel I.
Published: May 2021

Objectives

To identify the most common type and timing of interventions used to initially manage patellofemoral pain (PFP), and whether exercise therapy as an initial treatment was associated with a decreased likelihood of recurrence of PFP.

Design

Retrospective cohort.

Methods

Active-duty military service members (n = 74 408) aged 18 to 50 years and diagnosed with PFP between 2010 and 2011 were included. We identified the type and timing of interventions from electronic medical records and insurance payer claims, and studied the influence of early exercise therapy use on injury recurrence rates.

Results

In this cohort of patients with PFP, 62.3% (n = 46 338) sought no additional care after the initial visit. The most common initial pharmacological interventions were nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (4.1%), corticosteroid injections (0.4%), and muscle relaxers (0.3%). The most common initial nonpharmacological treatments were exercise therapy (7.6%), passive modalities (eg, hot packs, electrical stimulation, ultrasound; 0.6%), and manual therapy (joint manipulation and mobilization; 0.5%). Common specialty referrals were to physical therapy (3.3%) and orthopaedic providers (0.8%). If patients received at least 6 exercise therapy visits during the initial episode of care, they were less likely to have a recurrence of knee pain (odds ratio = 0.46; 95% confidence interval: 0.42, 0.49).

Conclusion

Two in every 3 patients did not seek additional care after PFP diagnosis. For those who sought additional care, exercise therapy was the most common intervention, and higher doses of exercise therapy were associated with a reduced likelihood of having a recurrent episode of knee pain. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2021;51(6):305–313. Epub 10 May 2021. doi:10.2519/jospt.2021.10076
Assessing Vascular Function in Patients With Neck Pain, Headache, and/or Orofacial Pain: Part of the Job Description of All Physical Therapists
Authors: Hutting Nathan , Kerry Roger , Kranenburg Rik , Mourad Firas , Taylor Alan
Published: May 2021

Synopsis

Vascular serious adverse events can occur after examining, manipulating, mobilizing, and prescribing exercise for the cervical spine. Patients presenting with neck pain and headache who develop a vascular serious adverse event during or after treatment may have vascular flow limitations that go unrecognized and are aggravated by treatment. Patients with neck pain and headache—the first nonischemic symptoms of arterial dissection—frequently access physical therapists as first-point providers, not all of whom have specialist training in orthopaedic manual physical therapy. All physical therapists, irrespective of their training, who are helping patients manage neck pain, headache, and/or facial symptoms must feel confident to identify potential vascular flow limitations of the neck prior to providing treatment. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2021;51(9):418–421. Epub 10 May 2021. doi:10.2519/jospt.2021.10408
Molecular Identification of Cryptosporidium spp. and Giardia spp. in Wild Birds in Southeastern Brazil
Authors:   Federal University of Uberlandia, Parasitology Laboratory, Brazil, MJR da Cunha , ALQ Santos ,   Federal University of Uberlandia, Wild Animal Research Laboratory, Brazil, MBO Silva ,   Department of Immunology, Federal University of Triangulo Mineiro, Brazil, MC dos Santos ,   Department of Internal Medicine, Federal University of Triangulo Mineiro Brazil, NMN Fava ,   Federal University of Uberlandia, Parasitology Laboratory, Brazil, MC Figire Cury ,   Federal University of Uberlandia, Parasitology Laboratory, Brazil
Published: May 2021

Introduction: The identification of Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia spp. and Enterocytozoon bieneusi in birds is relevant since these animals can act as disseminators of these parasites to humans through environmental contamination. The aim of this study was to determine the molecular occurrence of Cryptosporidium spp. and Giardia spp. in wild birds in southeastern Brazil and genetically characterize the isolates obtained. Methods: A total of 256 fecal samples were collected from 172 captive and 84 free-living wild birds. The DNA extracted was subjected to nested-PCR and semi-nested PCR analysis for amplification of fragments of the 18S rDNA and gdh genes of Cryptosporidium spp. and Giardia spp., respectively. Results: With respect to Cryptosporidium spp., the overall occurrence was 3.91%. Of samples from captive wild birds, six (3.49%) were positive: two waterfowl and four non-aquatic birds. Among the samples from free-living wild birds, four (4.76%) were positive, all non-aquatic birds. Regarding Giardia spp., the overall occurrence was 3.1%. Of samples from captive wild birds, four (2.32%) were positive, all waterfowl; of the samples from free-living wild birds, four (4.76%) were positive for the parasite, all non-aquatic birds. Conclusions: The presence of C. meleagridis and G. duodenalis assemblage B suggests that epidemiological studies involving wild birds and humans are needed to better understand the impact of avian cryptosporidiosis and giardiasis on avian health and their possible implications for public health.
Highly Stable 1,2-Dicarbonyl Radical Cations Derived from N-Heterocyclic Carbenes
Authors: Kim Youngsuk , Byeon Jung Eun , Jeong Gu Yoon , Kim Seoung Su , Song Hayoung , Lee Eunsung
Published: May 2021

The present manuscript describes the design, synthesis, and characterization of the most stable organic radical reported up to date.

Here we report:▪ Synthesis and full characterization including X-ray structure of stable 1,2-dicarbonyl radicals▪ Proposed mechanism for the formation of the presented radicals▪ Redox reactivity of the radicals▪ Stability of the radicals under various organic and inorganic conditions
Accelerating the Discovery of the Beyond Rule of Five Compounds That Have High Affinities Toward SARS-CoV-2 Spike RBD
Authors: Abu-Saleh Abd Al-Aziz , Yadav Arpita , Poirier Raymond A.
Published: May 2021

The battle against SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus is the focal point for the global pandemic that has affected millions of lives worldwide. The need for effective and selective therapeutics for the treatment of the disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 is critical. Herein, we performed computational de novo design incorporating molecular docking studies, molecular dynamics simulations, absolute binding energy calculations, and steered molecular dynamics simulations for the discovery of potential compounds with high affinity towards SARS-CoV-2 spike RBD. By leveraging ZINC15 database, a total of 1282 in-clinical and FDA approved drugs were filtered out from nearly 0.5 million protomers of relatively large compounds (MW > 500, and LogP ≤ 5). Our results depict plausible mechanistic aspects related to the blockage of SARS-CoV-2 spike RBD by the top hits discovered. We found that the most promising candidates, namely, ZINC95628821, ZINC95617623, ZINC3979524, and ZINC261494658, strongly bind to the spike RBD and interfere with the human ACE2 receptor. These findings accelerate the rational design of selective inhibitors targeting the spike RBD protein of SARS-CoV-2.
Optical Spectroscopy of Crystal Nucleation One Nucleus at a Time
Authors: Urquidi Oscar , Brazard Johanna , LeMessurier Natalie , Simine Lena , Adachi Takuji
Published: May 2021

Crystallization is an important process in a wide range of disciplines from fundamental science to industrial application. Despite the importance of controlling the crystallization and its morphology (e.g. polymorphism), the lack of microscopic description of crystal nucleation often limits the rational approach to its engineering and control. The biggest challenge to experimentally track the nucleus formation is the stochastic and heterogeneous nature of the nucleation occurring at nanometer scale. To overcome this challenge, we developed a method we call “Single Nucleus Spectroscopy” or SNS and use it to follow the formation of single crystal glycine nucleus by Raman spectroscopy at 46 ms time resolution. The spectral evolution was analyzed by non-supervised spectral decomposition algorithm which unraveled the Raman spectrum of prenucleation aggregates. In order to gain microscopic insights into the structure of these aggregates we have established a direct comparison between the experiments and theoretical works. The outcome of our analysis is a new hypothesis of glycine crystal nucleation mechanism.
Distance and Potential Dependence of Charge Transport Through the P700 Reaction Center of Photosystem I
Authors: Ortiz Manuel López , Zamora Ricardo A , Giannotti Marina Inés , Hu Chen , Croce Roberta , Gorostiza Pau , López-Ortiz Manuel
Published: May 2021

Photoinduced charge separation and transport through photosystem I (PSI) is an essential part of the photosynthetic electron transport chain. To investigate charge exchange processes mediated by the P700 reaction center of PSI, we have developed a strategy to functionalize gold electrodes with PSI complexes that orients and exposes their luminal side to the electrolyte. Bulk photoelectrochemical measurements demonstrate that PSI remains functional in a wide sample potential range around 0 mV/SSC. Electrochemical scanning tunneling microscopy (ECSTM) imaging of individual complexes shows lateral sizes in agreement with the dimensions of PSI and an apparent height that is gated by the probe potential of ECTSM as reported for smaller globular redox proteins. This experimental setup enables ECSTM current-distance spectroscopic measurements that unequivocally correspond to the P700 side of PSI. In these conditions, we observe that the spatial span of the current is enhanced (the distance-decay rate β is reduced) through the solution at sample potential 0 mV/SSC and probe potential 400 mV/SSC. This process corresponds to hole injection into an electronic state that is available in the absence of illumination. We propose that a pair of tryptophan residues located near P700 and known to integrate the hydrophobic recognition site for plastocyanin may have an additional role as hole exchange mediator involved in charge transport through PSI.
Occurrence and Distribution of Pharmaceuticals and their Transformation Products in Luxembourgish Surface Waters
Authors: Singh Randolph , Lai Adelene , Krier Jessy , Kondić Todor , Diderich Philippe , Schymanski Emma
Published: May 2021

This pre-print describes the analysis of pharmaceuticals and their transformation products in surface water samples collected in Luxembourg from 2019 to 2020. Details of the experimental and computational tools and workflows used are fully described in the manuscript. Links to the suspect lists, codes used, and data files are also provided.
A Study of Two-Dimensional Single Atom-Supported MXenes as Hydrogen Evolution Reaction Catalysts Using DFT and Machine Learning
Authors: LIANG HONGXING , Xu Min , Asselin Edouard
Published: May 2021

Enclosed you will find the article entitled “A study of two-dimensional single atom-supported MXenes as hydrogen evolution reaction catalysts using DFT and machine learning”.

Existing studies predominantly focused on the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) activities and stabilities of oxygen-terminated MXenes with single-atom loading. However, to the best of our knowledge, two-dimensional (2D) MXenes with different terminations (e.g. Br, I, Se, Te, B, Si, P, and NH) have not yet been investigated for the purposes of HER catalysis. Therefore, in this work, we considered the combined effect of the different surface terminations (B, NH, O, F, Si, P, S, Cl, Se, Br, Te, and I) and single atom loading (Ti, V, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zr, Nb, Mo, Tc, Ru, Rh, Pd, Ag, Hf, Ta, W, Re, Os, Ir, Pt, and Au) using DFT calculation. Gibbs free energy of hydrogen adsorption (reflecting activity) and the cohesive energy (a proxy for thermal stability) of these structures (264 in total) were calculated. We demonstrate that 21 uninvestigated 2D single-atom MXene catalysts, among 264 promising candidates, show an electrocatalytic activity surpassing that of platinum and a thermal stability surpassing those of synthesized borophene sheet and MoS2. Moreover, all catalysts examined in this work were further randomly separated into training and test sets with a ratio of 7:3. The HER electrocatalytic performance and thermal stability of the catalysts in the test set were predicted by machine learning algorithms. Most importantly, we present a way to provide a comparable precision (root mean square error values for the activity and thermal stability predictions are 0.158 eV and 0.02 eV, respectively) to the published machine learning works by avoiding their adoption of complex electronic features and the associated high computational cost, and by only using features that are easily available in chemical repositories. The algorithms used in this work are expected to help future researchers quickly screen single atom loaded MXenes HER catalysts at the initial design stage in a cost-effective manner. We have no financial interest in the subject or instrumentation used and there is no known conflict of interest.
N-Heterocyclic Iod(az)olium Salts - Potent Halogen Bond Donors in Organocatalysis
Authors: Boelke Andreas , Kuczmera Thomas , Lork Enno , Nachtsheim Boris
Published: May 2021

Herein we describe the first systematic investigation of cyclic iodonium salts (iodoliums and iodazoliums) and their performance as XB-donors in a variety of benchmark reactions. It was found that further N-alklyation of the N-heterocycle has a significant influence on their XB-donor capability. These novel dicationic species show a reactivity which is comparable or even better than the best so far described iodine(I) and iodine(III) compounds throughout the investigated reaction set.
Efficacy of CRISPR-Cas9 CAR T-Cell Therapy vs. Blinatumomab in the Treatment of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Rathod Khushi , Rani Shravani , Satish Shreerachita
Published: May 2021

Introduction: With immunotherapy drugs such as Blinatumomab (Blincyto), the current overall survival rate of relapsed/refractory B Lymphocyte Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (B-ALL) is 7.8 months in adults. However, with CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing, CAR T-cell therapy may extend survival. By knocking out T-cell receptors (TCRs) and HLA class I receptors on T-cells, CRISPR-Cas9 edited CAR T-cells could become a universal treatment alternative for B-ALL. This study compares the efficacy of CRISPR-Cas9 edited CAR T-cell therapy, a new era of CAR T-cell therapy, to the treatment of relapsed/ refractory B-ALL with Blinatumomab in mice.
Methods: A cohort of 30 NSG mice receiving xenografts from an 18-24 year old patient with relapsed B-ALL will be randomly assigned to one of three groups, where they will receive treatment with: (1) mock transduced T-cells, (2) Blincyto, or (3) CRISPR-Cas9 edited TRAC- and B2M- knockout CAR T-cells. Another cohort of 30 NSG mice, receiving human skin xenografts from a healthy donor, will also be assigned to one of the groups and treated accordingly. Tumour shrinkage will be analyzed through in vivo antibody fluorescent imaging in the first cohort. Graft Vs Host Disease (GvHD) development will be assessed in the second cohort.
Results: It is expected that mice treated with CRISPR-Cas9 edited CAR T-cells will be more effective at eliminating tumours. Compared to mice treated with Blincyto or mock-transfused T-cells, these mice will exhibit the highest overall response rates, complete response rates and tumour shrinkage rates, and the lowest relapse rates. It is also expected that these mice will not develop GvHD.
Discussion: The use of CRISPR-Cas9 edited CAR T-cells in the treatment of B-ALL reveals a new facet to cancer therapeutics. The efficacy of this treatment will be demonstrated through greater tumour shrinkage rates and higher overall response rates than treatment with Blincyto, the current standard treatment drug for B-ALL.
Conclusion: Current treatments involving Blinatumomab or conventional CAR T-cell therapy are expensive and therefore inaccessible to many. These results could demonstrate that CRISPR-Cas9 edited CAR T-cell therapy is viable as a safe, universal and more affordable alternative for relapsed/refractory B-ALL treatment.
Carbono primário: quem é você, afinal?
Authors: Santos Sóstenes Fernandes , Resende Filho João Batista Moura , Abrantes Poliana Gomes
Published: May 2021

O livro didático é o principal material didático usado no processo de escolarização. Entretanto, muitos livros usados apresentam erros ou inadequações conceituais que podem gerar confusões e dificultar os processos de ensino e aprendizagem. A análise desse material é de extrema importância, pois permite a identificação de equívocos conceituais e a reflexão sobre os conceitos que são apresentados. Este trabalho investiga como dez livros didáticos de Química do Ensino Médio abordam a classificação do carbono em Cadeias Carbônicas, com enfoque no conceito de carbono primário, tendo como base de referência livros de Química Orgânica usados em cursos de graduação no país e o Gold Book da IUPAC. Para o desenvolvimento desta pesquisa, foi utilizado como método de coleta de dados a pesquisa bibliográfica, com uso de uma abordagem qualitativa. Através dessa investigação, foi possível descobrir divergências nos conceitos de carbono primário presentes nos respectivos livros. Além disso, percebeu-se que a abordagem desse conteúdo é feita mecanicamente e desconectada dos demais conceitos químicos apresentados ao longo dos capítulos, ou seja, a maioria dos livros não relaciona os conceitos oriundos da referida classificação com os demais presentes ao longo do livro didático, contribuindo para a mera memorização e repetição de saberes.
Study of professional and emotional burnout in foreign psychological-pedagogical theory and practice
Authors: Larysa Behun-Trachuk
Published: May 2021

One of the acute problems in modern psychological and pedagogical theory and practice is the problem of emotional burnout of pedagogical workers In the process of studying emotional burnout, we first of all encounter with such general methodological problems, such as: the need to take into account all the main factors that are important for the emergence and formation of emotional burnout in a specialist, with the fact of variability of the main symptoms of emotional burnout at different stages of its formation (changes in thinking, behavior, feelings and health); taking into account probable moments in the development and formation of emotional burnout, etc. In our opinion, the following approaches can be solved by solving common methodological problems: interdisciplinary, systemic, empirical, personal-social-activity, situational. The article uses a complex of theoretical and empirical methods of analysis, systemization and generalization. Scientific understanding of foreign experience in studying the phenomenon of burnout, allowed to determine the degree of negativity of long-term professional stress, emotionally charged conditions of concert and stage activities and a large number of unforeseen situations of artistic and pedagogical interaction as a determinant of psychophysical burnout, emotional and intellectual I am a specialist. Thus, the approaches analysed in this article to the study of “emotional burnout” show that burnout manifests itself in various spheres of personality (cognitive, motivational, human rights to work), and there is a connection between burnout and exacerbation in all these areas, it seems to us important. Further research requires the development of technologies to overcome the syndrome identified by Ukrainian scientists.