bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advanced Carbon Materials: Base of 21st Century Scientific Innovations in Chemical, Polymer, Sensing and Energy Engineering
Authors: Ikram Muhammad , Raza Ali , Shahzad Khurram , Haider Ali , Haider Junaid , Khan Durrani Abdullah , Hassan Rizvi Asim , Maqsood Asghari , Ikram Mujtaba
Published: February 2021

Advance carbon material that includes graphene, fullerenes, hierarchical carbon, and CNTs are referred to as strength of revolution and advancement in the era of material science and technology. In general, 20th century corresponds to plastic meanwhile 21st century will be named as “Century of Graphene” owing to its exceptional physical properties. Graphene is now well-known and prominent 2D carbon allotrope that is considered as multipurpose material in comparison with any material discovered on earth. One of the interesting properties of graphene is strongest and lightest material that enables it to conduct electricity and heat as compared to any other material. Such features permit it to utilize in numerous applications including biosensors, electronic industry, environmental remediation, drug delivery, energy storage, and production as well. Owing to these capabilities, it can be stated that graphene can be utilized to improve effectiveness and performance of existing substances and materials. In the future, conjugation of graphene with other 2D material will be devolved to produce further remarkable compounds that make it appropriate for an extensive variety of applications. This chapter grants the utilization and applications of advanced carbons materials in chemical, polymer, sensing and energy enegineering.
Comparison of Blood Pressure in Women with and without Premenstrual Syndrome
Authors: Shabdini Hadiseh , Peyman Akram
Published: February 2021

Background: Premenstrual syndrome is one of the common disorders in women, which occurs periodically in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. High blood pressure seems to be one of the problems that can occur with premenstrual syndrome. Objectives: This study aimed to compare blood pressure changes in two groups with and without premenstrual syndrome. Methods: This is a descriptive-comparative study. The population of the study was the students of Tehran Islamic Azad University of Medical Sciences. Data were collected using a premenstrual syndrome screening questionnaire and blood pressure measurement that were then analyzed with SPSS at a significance level of α = 0.05. Results: According to 1,408 questionnaires collected, 580 people had the premenstrual syndrome. Comparison of blood pressure before menstruation showed a significant difference between the two groups with and without premenstrual syndrome (P < 0.001). Conclusions: An increase in blood pressure in the group with premenstrual syndrome requires investigating hypertension and planning for educational programs for preventing and controlling blood pressure in people with premenstrual syndrome.
The Role of Peroxisome Proliferator–Activated Receptor γ in Colon Cancer and Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Bull Arthur W.
Published: February 2021

Objective.—Review the role and therapeutic potential of peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor (PPAR) γ in colonic disorders.

Data Sources.—Recent peer-reviewed scientific literature focusing on PPAR γ in the colon.

Study Selection.—Research reports using animal models, cultured cell lines, and clinical material were examined for content related to the role of PPAR γ in normal colon cell function, colon cancer, and inflammatory bowel disease. Issues concerned with potential therapeutic use were also considered.

Data Synthesis.—Key points pertaining to PPAR function and involvement in colon pathology were extracted and noted. Potential compromises to therapeutic utility are identified.

Conclusions.—The emerging important role of PPAR γ in normal tissue homeostasis and pathologic outcomes suggests this receptor is a good candidate as a drug target. Several potential problems with this approach will require further investigation prior to widespread recommendations for modulation of PPAR as an efficacious therapy for cancer, chemoprevention of colon cancer, or treatment of inflammatory bowel disease. The widespread use of PPAR γ ligands for management of type 2 diabetes (such as the glitazone class of drugs including rosiglitazone and pioglitazone) may provide a fortuitous assessment of the efficacy of long-term PPAR modulation.
Schwannoma of the Sinonasal Tract: A Clinicopathologic and Immunohistochemical Study of 5 Cases
Authors: Buob David , Wacrenier Agnes , Chevalier Dominique , Aubert Sebastien , Quinchon Jean-François , Gosselin Bernard , Leroy Xavier
Published: February 2021

Context.—Peripheral nerve sheath tumors are soft tissue neoplasms rarely encountered in the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses.

Objective.—To describe the clinicopathologic and immunohistochemical features of a series of schwannomas of the sinonasal tract.

Design.—Surgical pathology files were searched for the diagnosis “sinonasal schwannoma.” All histologic documents and clinical data were reviewed. Immunohistochemistry was performed on paraffin-embedded tissue with antibodies to S100 protein, epithelial membrane antigen, CD34, and MIB-1.

Results.—Five cases of sinonasal schwannoma were retrieved; patients included 3 women and 2 men, aged 20 to 56 years. Three cases were located in the ethmoid sinus. Clinical symptoms were nonspecific (nasal obstruction, epistaxis, and anosmia). All tumors were treated with conservative surgical resection. Pathologic examination showed a spindle cell proliferation without encapsulation in all cases. No cytologic atypia was seen, and the mitotic activity was low (<3 mitotic figures/10 high-power fields). Immunohistochemistry showed diffuse positivity with S100 protein and negativity with CD34 and epithelial membrane antigen. MIB-1 staining was low (1%–5% of tumor cell nuclei stained). During the follow-up (median, 6 years), no recurrence or metastasis was observed.

Conclusions.—Schwannoma is a very unusual tumor of the sinonasal tract and is associated with nonspecific symptoms. Histologically, sinonasal schwannomas differ from schwannomas of other locations by their lack of a peripheral capsule and possible ulceration of the epithelial covering. Sinonasal schwannomas are treated with conservative surgical resection and have an excellent prognosis.
Is B-Lineage Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia With a Mature Phenotype and L1 Morphology a Precursor B-Lymphoblastic Leukemia/Lymphoma or Burkitt Leukemia/Lymphoma?
Authors: Li Shiyong , Lew Glen
Published: February 2021

Context.—B-lineage acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) with a mature phenotype and L1 morphology is a rare condition that may pose a diagnostic and management challenge.

Objective.—To report our experience with 2 such unusual cases of pediatric B-lineage ALL.

Design.—Morphologic, immunophenotypic, and cytogenetic features of the leukemic blast cells were reviewed in conjunction with clinical and other laboratory findings.

Results.—The leukemic blast cells in both cases were small to medium with scant basophilic cytoplasm and several small inconspicuous nucleoli, characteristic of L1 lymphoblasts. Immunophenotypically, they were positive for CD19, CD22, and low-density CD20, with expression of surface immunoglobulin λ light chain. They were negative for immature (CD34 and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase), myeloid, and T-cell–associated markers. Conventional cytogenetic and fluorescent in situ hybridization studies failed to demonstrate chromosomal translocations involving the c-myc gene. Both patients were treated with Children's Cancer Group ALL protocols and had good responses.

Conclusions.—B-lineage ALL with a mature phenotype, L1 morphology, and absent chromosomal translocations involving the c-myc gene is best classified and managed as precursor B-lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma instead of Burkitt leukemia/lymphoma.
Colonic Carcinoid Metastatic to the Breast
Authors: Kanthan Rani , Negreiros Fernando , Kanthan S. C.
Published: February 2021

Metastatic tumors of the breast are uncommon. Breast metastases from nonmammary malignant neoplasms are rare, accounting for approximately 2% of all breast tumors. We report the case of an ileal carcinoid tumor metastatic to the breast 10 years after the initial diagnosis. A 53-year-old woman presented to our clinic with a palpable breast lump. The mammogram was nonspecific. A lumpectomy was performed that, on frozen section, showed a neoplastic lesion. Permanent sections showed that the tumor was composed of sheets of small uniform cells divided into lobules by delicate vascular septa. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that the lesional cells were strongly positive to the neuroendocrine marker panel of antibodies: chromogranin A, neuron-specific enolase, synaptophysin, serotonin, and low-molecular-weight keratin. The lesional cells were negative to cytokeratins 7 and 20, estrogen and progesterone receptors, carcinoembryonic antigen, and c-Erb-B2 antibodies. The presence of pleomorphic neurosecretory-type granules within the cytoplasm of the tumor cells by ultrastructural analysis strongly suggested a metastatic lesion from a midgut carcinoid. A detailed review of the patient's medical records confirmed a right hemicolectomy for an ileal carcinoid with lymph node and omental metastases that had been performed elsewhere 10 years earlier. A detailed pathologic analysis of this lesion by light microscopy, along with histochemical, immunohistochemical, and ultrastructural analyses, aided in confirming the metastatic nature of the current breast lesion.
Precision in Gynecologic Cytologic Interpretation: A Study From the College of American Pathologists Interlaboratory Comparison Program in Cervicovaginal Cytology
Authors: Renshaw Andrew A. , Davey Diane D. , Birdsong George G. , Walsh Molly , Styer Patricia E. , Mody Dina R. , Colgan Terence J.
Published: February 2021

Context.—Numerous studies address the accuracy or positive predictive value of cytologic interpretations for defined histopathologic entities. The reproducibility (precision) of cytologic interpretation is less well defined.

Objective.—To establish and compare the reproducibility (precision) of cytologic interpretation in gynecologic cytopathology, as reflected in the educational program of the College of American Pathologists Interlaboratory Comparison Program in Cervicovaginal Cytology (PAP).

Methods.—The pathologists' interpretations for both validated (25 745 responses) and educational conventional (14 353 responses) slides in the PAP program for 2001 were analyzed. The frequency of exact matches between the reference and pathologists' interpretation for each of the cytologic interpretative categories was identified, and the cumulative distributions of exact match rates were derived. χ2 Tests by reference interpretations were used for cytodiagnostic categories, least and most reproducible groupings, and high-grade (HSIL) versus low-grade (LSIL) squamous intraepithelial lesions.

Results.—Pathologists' interpretations of negative, Candida, Trichomonas, herpes, and LSIL were characterized by a high degree of exact matching, while interpretations of repair, HSIL, adenocarcinoma, and squamous cell carcinomas were characterized by a lesser degree of exact matching (reproducibility). Pathologists' cytologic interpretations of HSIL were significantly less reproducible than those of LSIL.

Conclusion.—The cytologic interpretations of the most significant categories (HSIL, squamous cell carcinoma, and adenocarcinoma) are less precise than those of specific infection (Candida, Trichomonas, and yeast), negative, and LSIL categories. Cytologic interpretations of LSIL are made with greater precision than those of HSIL and may represent a more appropriate endpoint to measure the precision performance of gynecologic cytology laboratories.
Productivity of Veterans Health Administration Laboratories: A College of American Pathologists Laboratory Management Index Program (LMIP) Study
Authors: Valenstein Paul N. , Wang Edward , O'Donohue Tom
Published: February 2021

Context.—The Veterans Health Administration (VA) operates the largest integrated laboratory network in the United States.

Objective.—To assess whether the unique characteristics of VA laboratories impact efficiency of operations, we compared the productivity of VA and non-VA facilities.

Design.—Financial and activity data were prospectively collected from 124 VA and 131 non-VA laboratories enrolled in the College of American Pathologists Laboratory Management Index Program (LMIP) during 2002. In addition, secular trends in 5 productivity ratios were calculated for VA and non-VA laboratories enrolled in LMIP from 1997 through 2002.

Results.—Veterans Health Administration and non-VA facilities did not differ significantly in size. Inpatients accounted for a lower percentage of testing at VA facilities than non-VA facilities (21.7% vs 37.3%; P < .001). Technical staff at the median VA facility were paid more than at non-VA facilities ($28.11/h vs $22.60/h, salaries plus benefits; P < .001), VA laboratories employed a smaller percentage of nontechnical staff (30.0% vs 41.9%; P < .001), and workers at VA laboratories worked less time per hour paid (85.5% vs 88.5%; P < .001). However, labor productivity was significantly higher at VA than at non-VA facilities (30 448 test results/total full-time equivalent (FTE)/y vs 19 260 results/total FTE; P < .001), resulting in lower labor expense per on-site test at VA sites than at non-VA sites ($1.79/result vs $2.08/result; P < .001). Veterans Health Administration laboratories paid less per test for consumables (P = .003), depreciation, and maintenance than their non-VA counterparts (all P < .001), resulting in lower overall cost per on-site test result ($2.64 vs $3.40; P < .001). Cost per referred (sent-out) test did not differ significantly between the 2 groups. Analysis of 6-year trends showed significant increases in both VA (P < .001) and non-VA (P = .02) labor productivity (on-site tests/total FTE). Expenses at VA laboratories for labor per test, consumables per test, overall expense per test, and overall laboratory expense per discharge decreased significantly during the 6-year period (P < .001), while in non-VA facilities the corresponding ratios showed no significant change.

Conclusions.—Overall productivity of VA laboratories is superior to that of non-VA facilities enrolled in LMIP. The principal advantages enjoyed by the VA are higher-than-average labor productivity (tests/FTE) and lower-than-average consumable expenses.
Clinicopathologic Differences in Malignant Melanoma Arising in Oral Squamous and Sinonasal Respiratory Mucosa of the Upper Aerodigestive Tract
Authors: Prasad Manju L. , Busam Klaus J. , Patel Snehal G. , Hoshaw-Woodard Stacy , Shah Jatin P. , Huvos Andrew G.
Published: February 2021

Objective.—Primary mucosal melanomas are rare tumors. We compare melanomas arising in 2 histologically different mucosa, the stratified oral squamous mucosa and pseudostratified sinonasal respiratory mucosa, to investigate the clinicopathologic influence of native mucosal histology on the tumor.

Methods.—Clinicopathologic features of 36 melanomas arising in the squamous mucosa of the oral cavity were compared with 59 melanomas arising in the sinonasal respiratory mucosa.

Results.—The median age of patients was 61 and 63 years for oral and sinonasal melanomas, respectively, with the squamous and respiratory mucosa covering the maxilla being most frequently involved (68.7% and 66%, respectively). The former had a remarkable male predilection (28 men, 8 women), while the latter affected both sexes equally (29 men, 30 women). The oral melanomas were more likely to be detected in the early in situ or microinvasive stage (4 cases vs none, P = .008) and were more frequently amelanotic (14 vs 12, P = .049) than sinonasal melanomas. The sinonasal melanomas were frequently thicker (median thickness, 9 vs 2.6 mm), polypoid (29 vs none), ulcerated (57 vs 20), and necrotic (57 vs 14) than oral melanoma (P < .001). Pseudopapillary architecture was more frequent in sinonasal melanomas (16 tumors vs none, P < .001), and desmoplastic melanomas were more frequent in the oral mucosa (6 vs 1, P = .005). Sinonasal melanoma showed vascular and deep tissue invasion more frequently than oral melanoma; however, no significant difference in disease-specific survival was noted (median survival, 2.8 years vs 3.0 years; 5-year survival, 37% vs 35%, respectively).

Conclusion.—Sinonasal melanomas demonstrated aggressive morphologic features significantly more frequently than oral melanomas; however, prognosis remained similar in both groups.
Hepatic Adenomatosis in Glycogen Storage Disease Type Ia: Report of a Case With Unusual Histology
Authors: Volmar Keith E. , Burchette James L. , Creager Andrew J.
Published: February 2021

Hepatic adenomatosis is a well-known complication of glycogen storage disease type Ia (von Gierke disease). Although most of these tumors have an appearance similar to sporadic hepatocellular adenomas, unusual histologic features have been reported, including Mallory hyaline, varying degrees of fibrosis, and aggregates of neutrophils. We report the fourth case of Mallory hyaline in the adenomas of glycogen storage disease type Ia in a 28-year-old woman undergoing segmental hepatectomy for enlarging liver nodules. Other prominent findings included steatohepatitis and nonspecific granulomatous inflammation—2 findings that are commonly seen in sporadic adenomas but not, to our knowledge, previously reported in glycogen storage disease type Ia.
Sarcomatoid Carcinoma of the Gallbladder With a Rhabdoid Tumor Component
Authors: Kim Mi-Jung , Yu Eunsil , Ro Jae Y.
Published: February 2021

We report the case of a sarcomatoid carcinoma with a rhabdoid tumor component originating in the gallbladder, along with immunohistochemical and electron microscopic findings. A 61-year-old woman presented with a 5-month history of right upper quadrant pain. Ultrasonography and a computed tomographic scan indicated gallbladder cancer. She underwent a cholecystectomy and a common bile duct resection. A firm mass (4.5 cm in greatest dimension) was present in the neck portion of the gallbladder. The mass was firm, solid, yellowish gray, and granular with areas of necrosis. Microscopically, the tumor was a biphasic sarcomatoid carcinoma and consisted of diffusely arranged pleomorphic cells, focally showing rhabdoid features and neoplastic glands with focal mucin production. Heterologous components such as osteoid, chondroid, and rhabdomyoblastic elements were not identified. By immunohistochemical staining, we demonstrated that the rhabdoid cells coexpressed cytokeratin and vimentin. On electron microscopic examination, the rhabdoid tumor cells showed cytoplasmic whorls of intermediate filaments in the cytoplasm and eccentric nuclei. Two months postoperatively, the follow-up computed tomographic scan showed multiple intrahepatic metastases and omental seedings.
Xanthelasma or Xanthoma of the Fallopian Tube
Authors: Chetty Runjan , Reddy Isaivani , Batitang Sixto
Published: February 2021

We report a case of a 24-year-old woman who presented with abdominal pain, a tense abdomen, and rebound tenderness. A vague, ill-defined mass was palpated, and an ultrasound examination revealed a cystic lesion in the left adnexal region. At laparotomy, a slightly dilated fallopian tube was seen and excised. Light microscopy showed intact fallopian tube mucosa, with a diffuse infiltrate of foam cells in the lamina propria. There were no associated inflammatory cells. The foam cells were positive for CD68 and negative for AE1/AE3. Discontinuous areas of the epithelium also showed epithelial cells with “foamy cytoplasm.” These cells were negative for CD68 but positive for AE1/AE3. To our knowledge, this represents the first case of a fallopian tube xanthelasma that shows a resemblance to lesions encountered in the stomach. Fallopian tube xanthelasma must be distinguished from xanthogranulomatous salpingitis, which is associated with an inflammatory cell infiltrate, often including giant cells. However, this lesion may share pathogenetic similarities with xanthogranulomatous salpingitis, since both processes are mediated by inflammation.
Determining the most effective common household disinfection method to reduce the microbial load on domestic dishcloths: a pilot study
Authors: Gillies Emily
Published: February 2021

The domestic dishcloth has been shown to be the most contaminated item in the domestic kitchen, reported to contain up to 108 bacteria for up to 48 hours. Their smooth texture and large surface area allow bacteria to be transferred to kitchen surfaces easily, presenting a greater risk of cross-contamination and potentially contributing to foodborne illness. The purpose of this pilot study was to determine the most effective method to decrease the aerobic colony count (ACC) present on contaminated dishcloths. Dishcloths were inoculated in a beef slurry for 48 hours at room temperature. Contaminated dishcloths were subjected to 1-minute treatments of 10% bleach solution, lemon juice, vinegar, tap water, and microwaving. Serial dilutions were plated and incubated at 37°C overnight. Three replicates were produced, and 95% confidence intervals were calculated. Although treatments of 10% bleach solution and vinegar showed reduced ACC growth, no growth was identified after microwaving dishcloths for 1 minute on high power. There was no significant difference identified between the tap water and lemon juice treatments. Given that this is the first study conducted directly comparing different disinfection methods for dishcloths, microwaving dishcloths on high power for 1 minute can be recommended to disinfect domestic dishcloths and reduce cross-contamination within the home.
Medical error: Civil liability for the damage
Authors: Stefanović Nenad
Published: February 2021

The paper analyzes the civil law aspects of the responsibility of medical workers and institutions due to the damage caused by the doctors' mistakes in providing medical care. The aim of this paper is to present all the basics of physician responsibility, if it is established that there is a close connection between the error and the proven error and damage caused to the health of the patient, but also to third parties. The issue of medical error is not exclusively related to compensation for damages, since it heavily relies on medical law too. Although mistakes are mainly caused by the wrong actions of the doctors in performing their professional activities, the paper also deals with the responsibility of medical institutions for the damage being caused. An inaccurate definition of the legal nature of doctors' responsibilities, obligations imposed on medical workers by law, the definition of errors in a medical treatment, as well as the legal basis of liability to third parties, indicate that there are many not only legal but also ethical and moral dilemmas requiring the additional attention and analysis, which is also the goal of this paper.
Family as a factor of socialization and resocialization
Authors: Joksić Ivan , Rajaković Vesna
Published: February 2021

A family represents the basic unit of the society. It has a crucial influence on developing both positive and negative tendencies in the young population. A social role of a family comprises the active relationship of its senior members, especially the parents, in the process of socialization of the youngs - children and minors. In a process of resocialization, a proper positioning of family members represents the highest achievement in the realization of its social role. In such a way, a family gives an active contribution to affirming the positive social values. However, the expected social role of the family is often being corrupted by the deviant and criminal behavior of its junior members. Thus, this is a clear signal that the socialization was unsuccessful. The reasons may be found in its partial or complete deficiency. When a family fails to complete its role, then we have on the scene the members of the young population who do not comply with moral and legal norms. Consequently, they must be subjected to a process of resocialization. This process includes various subjects: the court, social welfare center, local community, school, family and the offender him/herself. They jointly participate in a resocialization process as a form of rehabilitation. Although in this process the family role is being realized within the legal frames (issued sentences or decisions), it is undisputable that it plays the important role. Hence, we find necessary to point out the specific role of the family as a factor in the socialization and resocialization process.
The European Union market from the aspect of the competition and basic values of Roman law
Authors: Stojković Milica
Published: February 2021

The rich treasury of Roman law requires a continuous scientific research. The values of Roman law in the process of globalization are achieving the notable results in the creation of a new ius commune. Today, the logistical aspect of the European legal systems takes place in the domain of Roman law, and some of its values are recognizable in the course of economic life on the market within the encounter of the national and European Union Law. The methodological and institutionalized framework of the competition law is used to achieve positive effects in the single market, paving the way for the even distribution of social wealth. The market cannot neutralize the behavior of business entities using the competition to achieve extra profits. So, detecting and placing all possible forms of embezzlement used by business entities under the legal framework is a difficult task dealt with by competition policy entities, largely using the legal institutes of Roman law.
The quality of close relationships in adulthood: the role of sociodemographic and environmental factors
Authors: Kuruzović Nikolina
Published: February 2021

In order to better understand the phenomenon of the quality of different types of close relationships of adults, we have investigated several determinants which define them more clearly. We focused on the relational differences of the respondents according to several sociodemographic (age, gender, employment, marital status and children) and environmental factors (structure and relationships in the family). A total of 400 males and females, ranging from 19 to 51 years, completed a general questionnaire. It collected the data related to sociodemographic and environmental characteristics, as well as the Social Relations Network Inventory (NRI), which assessed the quality of five types of close relationships. The results indicate significant differences between the respondents in the quality of individual close relationships, based on the factors of age, gender, employment, marital status and parenthood, as well as according to the factors of the quality of family relations and parental marital status. The identified differences are particularly pronounced in terms of the quality of the relationship with the mother and the quality of the relationship with the friend, which is explained by the characteristic nature of these relationships, as well as the developmental roles and tasks of the adulthood.
COVID-19: Opportunity or threat for European tourism
Authors: Ardeljan Patricia , Cismaș Laura , Medić Vera
Published: February 2021

International and European tourism underwent a constant and almost unprecedented development in the last decades. In 2018, international tourism displayed the ninth year of consecutive growth that exceeded even the increase of world GDP according to UNWTO data. This ascending trend continued in 2019, and the perspectives were promising according to predictions. The beginning of 2020 brought with it the outspread of a global pandemic and one of the most sensitive industries proved to be the industry of tourism and travel. The pandemic is from this perspective an opportunity for reconsidering the criteria for ensuring sustainable tourism while it proved the frailty of the entire tourism sector. The paper presents a brief analysis of the developments in international tourism, especially regarding European tourism in the pre-pandemic context. It is based on the principles of sustainability that should govern this industry and perceive the opportunities or threats of this pandemic. Regarding the methodology, we used the main available data and discussed the current analytical prediction models, because COVID-19 has changed and will continue to change the tourism industry.
Esport: Between internet gaming addiction and traditional sport
Authors: Sokić Jelena , Crvenko Aleksandra
Published: February 2021

Despite the growing popularity of esport, few research can be found in the specific area of the competitive nature of playing video games. More precisely, the research is mostly still of a qualitative and exploratory character. Bearing in mind that esport has been systematically attracting players (and spectators) in Serbia for a decade, and so far there is no research in Serbian on this topic in the field of (sport) psychology, the aim of this paper is to provide a concise systematic overview of previous research, with reference to existing methodological limitations and relevant psychological variables. This would help to define more clearly the boundaries between esport players, traditional athletes, and problematic players.
A utopia decolonial: o projeto transmoderno, pluriversal e o direito à diferença de igualdade
Authors: Kettuly Massahud de Carvalho Rayann
Published: February 2021

O presente trabalho tem o objetivo de apresentar a utopia do pensamento decolonial, o projeto transmoderno e pluriversal, a partir das obras de Walter Mignolo e de Enrique Dussel. Essa proposta não está limitada ao interior da modernidade eurocêntrica e nem é simplesmente a sua negação, como propõe o pós-modernismo. A utopia decolonial, enquanto projeto de sociedade futura, é uma terceira via, que parte de um outro lugar, da exterioridade da modernidade. Sendo assim, o trabalho é dividido em duas partes. Em primeiro lugar, é realizada uma apresentação da crítica decolonial ao universalismo. Em segundo lugar, o projeto de transmodernidade é abordado. Para tanto, a metodologia utilizada é a revisão de literatura ou reconstrução categorial.
Palavras-chave: Transmodernidade. Pluriversalidade. Colonialidade. Decolonialidade. Direito à diferença.
Implantação do sistema eletrônico de informações em uma Universidade Pública Federal: percepção dos servidores da área de gestão de pessoas
Authors: Farias Laís de Andrade , Oliveira Letícia Calsavara de , Oliveira Jair de , Michaloski Ariel Orlei
Published: February 2021

A gestão de processos é de grande relevância e traz vários benefícios para todas as organizações, portanto, também vem sendo utilizada pelas instituições públicas para a melhoria dos seus serviços. Considerando que os atores envolvidos nestes processos têm papel fundamental para o sucesso que se espera de uma ferramenta de gestão, o presente artigo teve como objetivo analisar a percepção dos servidores da área de Gestão de Pessoas da Universidade Tecnológica Federal do Paraná (UTFPR) quanto à implantação de um novo sistema de gestão de processos, o SEI – Sistema Eletrônico de Informações. Para tanto, foi elaborado um questionário no modelo estruturado, composto por questões sociodemográficas, funcionais, e questões relacionadas ao sistema estudado, abordando temas como a capacitação para o seu uso, frequência de utilização, e quesitos para medir a percepção dos usuários quanto à nova ferramenta de trabalho, sendo aplicado na Reitoria e também nos 13 câmpus da UTFPR. Após a análise dos dados obtidos, constatou-se que apesar de ter representado significativas mudanças nas rotinas de trabalho dos setores investigados, a maioria dos servidores da área de gestão de pessoas aprova e apoia a utilização do Sistema Eletrônico de Informações, e que a sua implantação foi, portanto, benéfica para esta área.
Wireless user requirements for the factory workcell
Authors: Montgomery Karl , Candell Richard , Liu Yongkang , Hany Mohamed
Published: February 2021

Wireless communication is becoming crucial to advanced manufacturing. Industry 4.0 and Smart Manufacturing depend on networked industrial automation systems. The term Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) has been used to describe the deployment of interconnected machines, sensors, and actuators within modernized factories. The adoption of wireless systems is essential to these IIoT deployments. Wireless automation significantly reduces capital investment costs, including conduit, cables, networking equipment, and installation labor. To enable the adoption of wireless systems at the factory-floor level, wireless requirements must be established to realize the benefits of wireless communication systems within those factories. One challenge is that existing wireless standards lack technical specifications that support low-latency and high-reliability communication for factory applications. Additionally, requirements for such capabilities are published or advertised without validation of said requirements. Often, requirements published by standards development organizations appear excessively strict and invalidated by empirical study. Moreover, those requirements ignore the capabilities of the applications to use their own intelligence to compensate for lost reliability in the network. This report analyzes existing wireless user requirements stated by industry organizations, and it produces a combined perspective on wireless user requirements for the factory workcell with supporting rationale.
RECUPERACIÓN DEL PATRIMONIO INDUSTRIAL. ARQUITECTURA DEL HIERRO EN VALENCIA: EL SIGLO VALENCIANO
Authors: Seguí Balaguer Montiel
Published: February 2021

El artículo realiza un estudio sobre la historia y trayectoria de los antiguos almacenes El siglo valenciano, describiendo los momentos más significativos de su construcción  como resultado del proceso adaptativo –con los arquitectos: Miguel Asensi, Joaquín María Arnau, Luís Ferreres, Javier Goerlich, y Vicente Momfort-, debido a las demandas de la sociedad de la época y de una nueva mentalidad empresarial. Finalmente, muestra las adecuaciones de salvaguarda, rehabilitación y adaptación para un nuevo uso, hoy Octubre Centre de Cultura Contemporània, que le han permitido llegar hasta nuestros días.
Effect of Health Care Providers’ Focused Discussion and Proactive Education About Relapse Management on Patient Reporting of Multiple Sclerosis Relapse
Authors: Waltrip Royce W. , Mahler Nancy , Ahsan Alina , Herbert Leslie B.
Published: February 2021

Background:

Treatments for multiple sclerosis (MS) relapse include intravenous corticosteroids and repository corticotropin injection. Despite available treatment, in the Multiple Sclerosis in America 2017 survey, only 47% of patients reported always/often contacting their MS health care provider (HCP) during relapse. In this study, the Multiple Sclerosis in America 2017 survey participants who received intravenous corticosteroids or repository corticotropin injection for treatment of past relapses completed a follow-up survey to understand how patients characterize relapse severity and to explore predictors of patients contacting their HCP during a relapse.

Methods:

Patients were 18 years and older, diagnosed as having MS by an HCP, and currently using disease-modifying therapy. Patients completed an online survey assessing relapse characteristics and interactions with the HCP treating the patient’s MS. Regression analysis identified predictors of patients contacting their HCP during relapse.

Results:

Mean age of the 126 respondents was 49.2 years, 81.0% were female, and most (80.2%) had one or more relapses in the past 2 years. Patients estimated that 38.3% of their relapses were mild; 45.1%, moderate; and 16.6%, severe. Number and frequency of symptoms increased with relapse severity. Less than half (46.0%) reported they were extremely likely to contact their HCP during a relapse. The best predictors of being likely to contact the HCP during relapse were the HCP having previously discussed the importance of immediately communicating a relapse and patients’ willingness to accept the HCP’s recommendation for relapse treatment.

Conclusions:

Findings highlight the importance of HCPs’ advance discussions with patients with MS regarding relapse management to increase the likelihood patients will contact their HCP during relapse.
Petri Net based modeling and analysis for improved resource utilization in cloud computing
Authors: Rizwan Ali Muhammad , Ahmad Farooq , Hasanain Chaudary Muhammad , Ashfaq Khan Zuhaib , Alqahtani Mohammed A. , Saad Alqurni Jehad , Ullah Zahid , Khan Wasim Ullah
Published: February 2021

The cloud is a shared pool of systems that provides multiple resources through the Internet, users can access a lot of computing power using their computer. However, with the strong migration rate of multiple applications towards the cloud, more disks and servers are required to store huge data. Most of the cloud storage service providers are replicating full copies of data over multiple data centers to ensure data availability. Further, the replication is not only a costly process but also a wastage of energy resources. Furthermore, erasure codes reduce the storage cost by splitting data in n chunks and storing these chunks into n + k different data centers, to tolerate k failures. Moreover, it also needs extra computation cost to regenerate the data object. Cache-A Replica On Modification (CAROM) is a hybrid file system that gets combined benefits from both the replication and erasure codes to reduce access latency and bandwidth consumption. However, in the literature, no formal analysis of CAROM is available which can validate its performance. To address this issue, this research firstly presents a colored Petri net based formal model of CAROM. The research proceeds by presenting a formal analysis and simulation to validate the performance of the proposed system. This paper contributes towards the utilization of resources in clouds by presenting a comprehensive formal analysis of CAROM.
Technological Changes and Organizational Growth in Deposit Money Banks in Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Bestman A. E. , Nuka Gwarah, Patience
Published: February 2021

This study examined the relationship between technological changes and organizational growth in deposit money banks in Rivers State. The study adopted the cross-sectional survey design to elicit response from staff of the identified deposit money banks in Rivers State. Primary data was collected using self-administered questionnaire. The population of the study comprised all the 16 deposit money banks in Port Harcourt. Using a multi-stage sampling technique, 96 staff were selected as the sample of the study. Since the banks had few permanent staff, convenient and census frame were adopted to determine the number of staff per bank. Thus, using the simple stratified random sampling technique the staff were categorized into three cadres-Top management, IT Personnel and Cashiers/Tellers from which staff were randomly selected from each cadre amounting 6 staff from each bank. The reliability was attained using test-re-test and Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient analysis with all items having a reliability index above 0.70. The Spearman Rank Order Correlation Coefficient (rho) was used in testing the hypotheses. The study revealed that there is a positive significant relationship between technological changes and organizational growth. This implies that the various developments in ICT have positive and significant influence on organizational growth. It, therefore, concluded that organizational growth in deposit money banks can be improved by the application of the various innovations and devices generated in the various stages of technological changes. The study, therefore, more attention be directed towards the use of ICTs in banking operations in deposit money banks in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, since the banking industry serve as a lubricant to the cog of the wheel of the nation’s economy.
Evaluating Measure of Modified Rotatability for Second Degree Polynomial Design Using Balanced Incomplete Block Designs
Authors: Jyostna P. , Babu B. Re. Victor
Published: February 2021

Box and Hunter (1957) introduced the concept of rotatability. It is an important design criterion for response surface methodology (RSM). In this paper, evaluating measure of modified rotatability for second degree polynomial design using balanced incomplete block designs (3 ≤ V ≤ 11 : v-number of factors) which enables us to assess the degree of modified rotatability for a given response surface designs at different values of rotatability is recommended.
Accurate Time Calculations of Falling Bodies in the Earth's Gravitational Field and Comparisons with Newton's Laws of Vertical Motion
Authors: Ebaid A. , Al-Qahtani Shorouq M. S. , Al-Jaber Afaf A. A. , Alatwai Wejdan S. S. , Alharbi Wafaa T. M.
Published: February 2021

The Earth is exposed annually to the fall of some meteorites and probably other celestial bodies which cause a potential danger to vital areas in several countries. Consequently, the accurate calculation of the falling time of such bodies is useful in order to take the necessary procedures for protecting these areas. In this paper, Newton’s law of general gravitation is applied to analyze the vertical motion in the Earth’s gravitational field. The falling time is obtained in exact form. The results are applied on several objects in real life.
Echocardiographic Assessment of Ventricular Function in Children with Human Immunodeficiency Virus on Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy
Authors: Duru C. O. , Chinawa J. M. , Chukwu B. F.
Published: February 2021

Background: Children with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection could present with varying degrees of cardiac abnormalities, however the effect of Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) has not been extensively studied in them.

Objectives: To compare the ventricular functions of HIV positive children on HAART with that of HIV negative children using echocardiography.

 Methods: This was a comparative cross sectional descriptive study involving 54 HIV positive children on HAART and 50 HIV negative controls. Using transthoracic echocardiography, trans annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE), Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), Left ventricular fractionating shortening (LVFS), Left ventricular (LV) mitral inflow velocities, left ventricular mass index (LVMI) and Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) were used to assess right ventricular (RV) and left ventricular (LV) function.

Results: The mean TAPSE for subjects and controls were 26.78±5.92mm and 25.82±3.59mm respectively (t = 1.0, p = 0.32). The prevalence of right ventricular systolic dysfunction using TAPSE was significantly higher among the subjects; 29.63% compared with 8.0% in controls (χ2 = 7.82, p=0.005). There was no significant correlation between TAPSE and CD4 counts (Spearman’s correlation coefficient = 0.15, p = 0.31). The mean left ventricular mass index (LVMI) in subjects was 141.6±45.5g/M2. Forty-one (75.9%) of the subjects had left ventricular hypertrophy (LVMI > 103G/M2) compared with 26.0% (13/50) of the controls and the difference in proportion was significant (Chi-square = 30.49, p<0.001). Left ventricular systolic function was similar in subjects and controls. The prevalence of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction was significantly higher in subjects (15.5%) than in controls (4.0%); {χ2 = 37.89, p<00.1)

Conclusion: This study shows that children with HIV on HAART regimen have a very high prevalence of ventricular dysfunction compared with normal controls.
Natural Mulches Effect on the Yield of White Maize
Authors: Bithy Parvin Akter , Ahamed Kamal Uddin , Shamsuzzaman A. M. M. , Haque Md. Moinul
Published: February 2021

The experiment was conducted at the experimental field of Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University during the period from November 2015 to May 2016, Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Dhaka-1207, to find out the effect of organic mulches on the yield of white maize. This experiment was comprised of two factors. Factor A: Variety (2): V1 = Shuvra; V2 = KS-510 and Factor B: Indigenous mulch materials (5): T1 = Control (without mulch); T2 = Water hyacinth; T3 = Rice straw; T4 = Rice husk; T5 = Ash. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications and the differences between means were separated by both Duncan’s New Multiple Range Test (DMRT) and Least Significant Difference (LSD) test at 5% level of probability. Mulches showed significant effects on most of the parameters. In the case of variety, the highest grain yield (12.963ton per ha) was recorded from V2. Different organic mulch materials showed different values, the highest values were recorded from T3. Due to this (T3) mulch material. The water retentive capacity of the mulched soil was higher at all the stages of plant growth and ranked in the order of rice straw > water hyacinth > rice husk > ash > control. The highest grain yield (17.407ton per ha) was recorded from T3. . In case of interaction all yield attributing characters include grain yield (19.043ton per ha) was recorded from V2T3. So, KS-510 variety and rice straw mulch combinedly had outstanding superiority for morphophysiological and yield attributes in white maize over the other organic mulches.
A Novel Evidence of Immunological and Molecular Detection of Brucella Species in Camels
Authors: Manivannan Kavitha , Ramasamy Malathi , Ahmed Hanaa
Published: February 2021

Objectives: Brucellosis is a zoonosis with severe complications for both humans and animals. In this work, we intended to examine the Brucella infection in dromedary camels in Qatar by using different analysis.

Materials and Methods: A total of 203 samples of dromedary camels were randomly collected from the nearby farms in Qatar. Real-time PCR for the genus specific Brucella cell surface salt extractable bcsp31 kDa protein gene were performed on DNA extracted from camel samples. Rose Bengal and rivenol tests were performed to detect the Brucella species. The milk samples were collected from the camels and utilized for the milk ring test.

Results: The outcomes of RT-PCR analysis illustrate the presence of Brucella spp. in 170 samples (83.74%) out of 203 samples. The findings of immunological assays also proved the presence of Brucella spp. such as Rose Bengal (67.14%), ELISA (71.42%), and precipitation assay (65.71) in both serum and blood samples of the dromedary camels, which were collected from the Qatar.

Conclusions: In conclusion, it was clear that the incidence of the brucellosis in camels is significantly rising in Qatar region and there is a need to control the spread of the disease from camels to camels as well as from camels to humans.
Molecular Docking Evaluation of Syzygium aromaticum Isolated Compounds Against Exo-β-(1,3)-glucanases of Candida albicans
Authors: Shalayel Mohammed H. F. , Al-Mazaideh Ghassab M. , Swailmi Farhan Khashim Al , Aladaileh Saleem , Nour Saada , Afaneh Akef T. , Marashdeh Ali
Published: February 2021

Seventeen compounds from Syzygium aromaticum are selected for exo-β-(1,3)-glucanases inhibitory activity by using molecular docking study. The compounds are uploaded from the PubChem database and molecular docking with AutoDock 1.5.6 tools is carried out. The molecular docking scores indicate that stigmasterol and campesterol are of the highest potentials, and approximately have similar binding affinities with Candida albicans' active site (3N9K, 3O6A). The hydroxyl moiety has played an important role in the antifungal potentiality of all studied compounds.