bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antiviral Activity of the PropylamylatinTM Formula against the Novel Coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 In Vitro Using Direct Injection and Gas Assays in Virus Suspensions
Authors: Brown Ashley N. , Strobel Gary , Hanrahan Kaley C. , Sears Joe
Published: March 2021

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causative agent of novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), has become a severe threat to global public health. There are currently no antiviral therapies approved for the treatment or prevention of mild to moderate COVID-19 as remdesivir is only approved for severe COVID-19 cases. Here, we evaluated the antiviral potential of a Propylamylatin formula, which is a mixture of propionic acid and isoamyl hexanoates. The Propylamylatin formula was investigated in gaseous and liquid phases against 1 mL viral suspensions containing 105 PFU of SARS-CoV-2. Viral suspensions were sampled at various times post-exposure and infectious virus was quantified by plaque assay on Vero E6 cells. Propylamylatin formula vapors were effective at inactivating infectious SARS-CoV-2 to undetectable levels at room temperature and body temperature, but the decline in virus was substantially faster at the higher temperature (15 min versus 24 h). The direct injection of liquid Propylamylatin formula into viral suspensions also completely inactivated SARS-CoV-2 and the rapidity of inactivation occurred in an exposure dependent manner. The overall volume that resulted in 90% viral inactivation over the course of the direct injection experiment (EC90) was 4.28 µls. Further investigation revealed that the majority of the antiviral effect was attributed to the propionic acid which yielded an overall EC90 value of 11.50 µls whereas the isoamyl hexanoates provided at most a 10-fold reduction in infectious virus. The combination of propionic acid and isoamyl hexanoates was much more potent than the individual components alone, suggesting synergy between these components. These findings illustrate the therapeutic promise of the Propylamylatin formula as a potential treatment strategy for COVID-19 and future studies are warranted.
Prognostic Values of Serum Ferritin and D-Dimer Trajectory in Patients with COVID-19
Authors: Qeadan Fares , Tingey Benjamin , Gu Lily Y. , Packard Ashley Hafen , Erdei Esther , Saeed Ali I.
Published: March 2021

Cytokine storm syndrome in patients with COVID-19 is mediated by pro-inflammatory cytokines resulting in acute lung injury and multiorgan failure. Elevation in serum ferritin and D-dimer is observed in COVID-19 patients. To determine prognostic values of optimal serum cutoff with trajectory plots for both serum ferritin and D-dimer in COVID-19 patients with invasive ventilator dependence and in-hospital mortality. We used retrospective longitudinal data from the Cerner COVID-19 de-identified cohort. COVID-19 infected patients with valid repeated values of serum ferritin and D-dimer during hospitalization were used in mixed-effects logistic-regression models. Among 52,411 patients, 28.5% (14,958) had valid serum ferritin and 28.6% (15,005) D-dimer laboratory results. Optimal cutoffs of ferritin (714 ng/mL) and D-dimer (2.1 mg/L) revealed AUCs ≥ 0.99 for in-hospital mortality. Optimal cutoffs for ferritin (502 ng/mL) and D-dimer (2.0 mg/L) revealed AUCs ≥ 0.99 for invasive ventilator dependence. Optimal cutoffs for in-house mortality, among females, were lower in serum ferritin (433 ng/mL) and D-dimer (1.9 mg/L) compared to males (740 ng/mL and 2.5 mg/L, respectively). Optimal cutoffs for invasive ventilator dependence, among females, were lower in ferritin (270 ng/mL) and D-dimer (1.3 mg/L) compared to males (860 ng/mL and 2.3 mg/L, respectively). Optimal prognostic cutoffs for serum ferritin and D-dimer require considering the entire trajectory of laboratory values during the disease course. Females have an overall lower optimal cutoff for both serum ferritin and D-dimer. The presented research allows health professionals to predict clinical outcomes and appropriate allocation of resources during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially early recognition of COVID-19 patients needing higher levels of care.
Attitude and Behaviors towards SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination among Healthcare Workers: A Cross-Sectional Study from Poland
Authors: Szmyd Bartosz , Karuga Filip Franciszek , Bartoszek Adrian , Staniecka Katarzyna , Siwecka Natalia , Bartoszek Agnieszka , Błaszczyk Maciej , Radek Maciej
Published: March 2021

Healthcare workers are particularly exposed to biological risk during their daily occupational activities. Nowadays, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has become one of the most widespread infectious agents. In the current study, we performed a survey on the attitude and behavior of Polish healthcare workers (HCW), which comprise physicians (MD) and administrative healthcare assistants (HA) towards the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination. Our study involved 2300 subjects (42.17% female; 10.96% MD; 5.87% HA). The evaluation was conducted using a Google Forms survey based on original questions and the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale—21 Items questionnaire. HCW significantly more often demonstrated their willingness to get vaccinated against the SARS-CoV-2 as compared to the control group (82.95% vs. 54.31%, respectively). The main concern, as regards all groups, was the development of long-term side effects after getting COVID-19 vaccine. The study revealed that depression significantly affects the willingness to get vaccinated. The readiness was significantly strengthened by positive medical history of recommended vaccinations, fear of catching COVID-19, as well as fear of passing on the disease to the relatives. Overall, the percentage of HCW, who want to be vaccinated against COVID-19 remains unsatisfactory. Further works exploring this subject are needed to take a step closer to achieving the herd immunity in the era of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Epidemiological Differences in the Impact of COVID-19 Vaccination in the United States and China
Authors: Makhoul Monia , Chemaitelly Hiam , Ayoub Houssein H. , Seedat Shaheen , Abu-Raddad Laith J.
Published: March 2021

This study forecasts Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination impact in two countries at different epidemic phases, the United States (US) and China. We assessed the impact of both a vaccine that prevents infection (VES of 95%) and a vaccine that prevents only disease (VEP of 95%) through mathematical modeling. For VES of 95% and gradual easing of restrictions, vaccination in the US reduced the peak incidence of infection, disease, and death by >55% and cumulative incidence by >32% and in China by >77% and >65%, respectively. Nearly three vaccinations were needed to avert one infection in the US, but only one was needed in China. For VEP of 95%, vaccination benefits were half those for VES of 95%. In both countries, impact of vaccination was substantially enhanced with rapid scale-up, vaccine coverage >50%, and slower or no easing of restrictions, particularly in the US. COVID-19 vaccination can flatten, delay, and/or prevent future epidemic waves. However, vaccine impact is destined to be heterogeneous across countries because of an underlying “epidemiologic inequity” that reduces benefits for countries already at high incidence, such as the US. Despite 95% efficacy, actual vaccine impact could be meager in such countries if vaccine scale-up is slow, acceptance is poor, or restrictions are eased prematurely.
Evaluation of Water Social Service and Comprehensive Water Management Linked with Integrated River Evaluation
Authors: Kim Da Ye , Park Su Hee , Song Chul Min
Published: March 2021

Various factors like climate change and population increase have limited water management evaluation. In South Korea particularly, although the management of water quality and water quantity has recently been integrated, a comprehensive policy has not yet been identified. This study, therefore, aims to propose a methodology for evaluating water social service for 18 basins near major water resources in South Korea. It aims to promote advanced water resource management, secure water equity, and improve inadequate policy implementation. In addition, it proposes a methodology for comprehensive water management evaluation linked with integrated river evaluation with respect to water quality and water quantity. Accordingly, contrary to the common assumption that the entire population has easy access to the supplied water, the status of water service was assessed objectively. The status of water management per sector was also visually represented, through which the vulnerabilities of water management could be intuitively diagnosed. Based on the possibility of utilizing the study results to determine the basic direction for water management, the methodology of this study has been proposed as a tool for establishing an efficient water management policy.
A Scientometric Review of Research Status on Unfrozen Soil Water
Authors: Feng Shuna , Zhang Huan , Lv Jialong , Dyck Miles , Wu Qingbai , He Hailong
Published: March 2021

Unfrozen soil water affects the physical, chemical, hydrological, and mechanical properties of frozen soils, and climate change makes these relationships more complicated. The objective of this study was to investigate the research status of unfrozen soil water using scientometrics. Publications on unfrozen water in frozen soil (UWFS) retrieved from the Web of Science were analyzed with scientometric software tools including VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and HistCite Pro. The annual publication trend, co-authorship of authors, organizations, and countries, and the co-occurrence of keywords were analyzed. The most utilized journals and high-impact publications were identified. The results showed that 2007 (the year the “Bali Road Map” was released) represents a turning point (from slow to rapid) in the development of research on unfrozen water in frozen soil. Researchers and organizations from China and the United States are the major contributors, while Cold Regions Science and Technology is the most utilized journal for publishing research pertaining to UWFS. Currently, there is still a lack of reliable and user-friendly methods and techniques for measuring unfrozen water content. Future efforts are required to understand the mechanisms governing the magnitude of unfrozen water content and to develop new approaches to accurately and rapidly measure unfrozen water content in both laboratory and in situ.
Assessing the Ecotoxicity of Copper and Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons: Comparison of Effects on Paracentrotus lividus and Botryllus schlosseri, as Alternative Bioassay Methods
Authors: Gregorin Chiara , Albarano Luisa , Somma Emanuele , Costantini Maria , Zupo Valerio
Published: March 2021

Adult sea urchins and their embryos are ideal targets to investigate the medium- and long-term effects of various toxic agents, such as organic and inorganic pollutants, to forecast and mitigate their environmental effects. Similarly, small colonial tunicates such as Botryllid ascidians may reveal acute toxicity processes and permit quick responses for the management of contaminants impacting coastal waters, to preserve the functional integrity of marine ecosystems. This investigation compares the functional responses of two model invertebrates, the sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus and the sea squirt Botryllus schlosseri, to chronic and acute exposures to organic and inorganic toxic agents. Such heavy metals as copper produce both acute and chronic effects on marine biota, while polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) mainly produce chronic effects at the concentrations ordinarily measured in marine coastal waters. Both models were tested over a range of concentrations of copper and PAHs. Copper triggered a clear effect in both species, producing a delay in the embryo development of P. lividus and a rapid death of sea squirts. B. schlosseri was less sensitive to PAHs than P. lividus. The results on both species may synergistically contribute to assess the toxicity of organic and inorganic compounds at various concentrations and different physiologic levels.
Biomarkers of cardiac fibrosis in arterial hypertension
Authors: Dotsenko N. Ya. , Gerasimenko L. V. , Boev S. S. , Shekhunova I. A. , Molodan A. V. , Malinovskaya A. Ya. , Yatsenko O. V.
Published: March 2021

The article presents a review of the literature on the role of myocardial fibrosis in the development of myocardial remodeling in patients with arterial hypertension. Information about the state of the structure and function of the extracellular matrix in health and disease is generalized. The characteristics of myocardial fibrosis biomarkers detection in the circulating blood are reflected.
Mucoactive therapy for impaired respiratory function in children with acute bronchitis
Authors: Ovcharenko L. S. , Vertehel A. A. , Andrienko T. G. , Samokhin I. V. , Kryazhev A. V. , Timoshina O. V.
Published: March 2021

Purpose of the study. Increasing the efficiency and safety of therapy of the bronchi secretoryevacuation disorders in acute bronchitis with impaired respiratory function in children by using a medication with minimal effect on the cardiovascular system.

Materials and methods. The study included 60 children aged 6 to 11 years, suffering from acute bronchitis for 1–2 days. Formed 2 groups of observation (30 children in each group): 1st group (main) – children receiving phytopreparation for 10 days in the complex therapy of the bronchi secretory-evacuation disorders in acute bronchitis with impaired function of external respiration; 2-nd group (comparison) – children receiving ambroxol. The dynamics of the severity of bronchitis was assessed according to the BSS scale (0–20 points).

Results. The clinical symptoms of acute bronchitis according to the BSS scale were significantly faster and more effective in the group of children taking the herbal remedy already on the 4-th day of therapy. In the group of patients taking phytopreparation, there was an improvement in objective indicators of respiratory function according to spirography data. In children of the 1st group, the period of recovery is accompanied by the normalization of indicators of the functioning of the autonomic nervous system and the predominance of eutonia against the background of a decrease in the number of registrations of parasympathicotonia.

Conclusions. Treatment of acute bronchitis in children using a phytopreparation normalizes the indices of autonomic regulation and functioning of the cardiovascular system, which contributes to a faster and more effective relief of clinical symptoms with the restoration of the function of external respiration.
Performance Evaluation of a Forced Convection Mixed Mode Solar Grain Dryer with a Preheater
Authors:   Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa., Angula Johannes P. , Inambao Freddie ,   Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.
Published: March 2021

In this study the performance of a forced convection mixed-mode solar grain dryer integrated with a preheater was evaluated. The type of grains used in the experiment were 72 freshly harvested maize cobs with a total mass of 17 kg. The experiment was conducted at various airflow speeds and preheater temperatures ranging from 0.5 m/s to 2 m/s and 30 ℃ to 40 ℃, respectively. The aim of the study was to improve the performance of an existing indirect solar dryer which was converted to a mixed-mode solar dryer. The initial thermal efficiency of the indirect solar dryer before modification was 36 %. The results from the experiment indicated a maximum thermal efficiency of 58.8 % with a corresponding drying rate of 0.0438 kg/hr. The minimum thermal efficiency for the mixed-mode solar grain dryer system was 47.7 %, with a corresponding drying rate of 0.0356 kg/hr. The fastest drying time of maize cobs was achieved in 4 hours and 34 minutes from an initial moisture content of 24.7 % wb to 12.5 % wb. The findings show a significant improvement in the dryer system’s performance. This is a clear indication that operating a solar dryer system in mixed-mode operation with forced convection and the assistance of a preheater or backup heater can significantly improve drying processes and increase food preservation.
Thoracic Electric Bio Impedance Artifacts Removal by Block Related Adaptive Eliminators for Remote Health Care
Authors:   Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, JNTUK, Guntur (A.P), India., Nuthalapati Soniya , Nutalapati Kusuma ,   Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, JNTUK, Guntur (A.P), India., Nallapaneni Venkata Varun Sai ,   Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, JNTUK, Guntur (A.P), India., Harinadh Siddabattuni ,   Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, JNTUK, Guntur (A.P), India.,   Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, JNTUK, Guntur (A.P), India., Tallapaneni Prem Chand , Suraj T.R Sai ,   Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, JNTUK, Guntur (A.P), India.
Published: March 2021

Study of thoracic-electrical- bio-impedance (TEB) simplifies heart attack volume during abrupt cardiac detention. Here in this paper we presented various effective and arithmetically reduced flexible techniques to show high quality TEB element. In scientific circumstances, TEB wave accounts several natural and un-natural events that veil the small things which are needed in finding the depth of the heart attack. In addition to that arithmetical convolution is the significant factor in a present-day wearable health based detecting device. Thus we used a novel signal processing method for TEB improvement in distant health-care structures. To do this we selected higher order adaptive-filter as an essential component in designing TEB. To boost purifying capacity, merging velocity, to decrease mathematical difficulty of signal processing method, we used information normalization and cutting the data-regressor. The designed applications were checked on original TEB signals and the executed outcome established that the designed regressor eliminated the normalized high order purifier which is apt for a pragmatic health-care structure.
An Improved LSA Model for Electronic Assessment of Free Text Document
Authors:   Computer Technology Department, Yaba College of Technology, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria., Mutiu Rufai Mohammed , Afolabi Prof. A. O. ,   Computer Science Department, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria., Fenwa Dr. (Mrs.) O. D. ,   Computer Science Department, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria., Ajala Dr. (Mrs.) F. A. ,   Computer Science Department, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria.
Published: March 2021

Latent Semantic Analysis (LSA) is a statistical approach designed to capture the semantic content of a document which form the basis for its application in electronic assessment of free-text document in an examination context. The students submitted answers are transformed into a Document Term Matrix (DTM) and approximated using SVD-LSA for noise reduction. However, it has been shown that LSA still has remnant of noise in its semantic representation which ultimately affects the assessment result accuracy when compared to human grading. In this work, the LSA Model is formulated as an optimization problem using Non-negative Matrix Factorization(NMF)-Ant Colony Optimization (ACO). The factors of LSA are used to initialize NMF factors for quick convergence. ACO iteratively searches for the value of the decision variables in NMF that minimizes the objective function and use these values to construct a reduced DTM. The results obtained shows a better approximation of the DTM representation and improved assessment result of 91.35% accuracy, mean divergence of 0.0865 from human grading and a Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.632 which proved to be a better result than the existing ones.
A Survey on Computer Ethics w.r.t. Artificial Intelligence Robot Weaponry Fuzzy Systems Autonomous Vehicles
Authors:   Department of Computer Science, University of Missouri – St. Louis, Missouri, USA., Kshetri Naresh
Published: March 2021

Computer Ethics study has reached a point where Artificial Intelligence, Robot, Fuzzy Systems, Autonomous Vehicles and Autonomous Weapon Systems ethics are implemented in order to make a machine work without intervening and harming others. This survey presents many previous works in this field of computer ethics with respect to artificial intelligence, robot weaponry, fuzzy systems and autonomous vehicles. The paper discusses the different ethics and scenarios up through the current technological advancements and summarizes the advantages and disadvantages of the different ethics and needs of morality. It is observed that all ethics are equally important today, but human control and responsibility matters. Most recent technology can be implemented or improved by careful observation and involvement of organizations like the United Nations, International Committee for Robot Arms Control, Geneva Conventions and so on.
MELESTARIKAN BUDAYA TULIS NUSANTARA: Kajian tentang Aksara Lontara
Authors: Ahmad Abdul Aziz
Published: March 2021

The conservation of  Indonesian Traditional Script is less seriously done. Therefore it needs to be encouraged especially for the traditional scripts because they are one of  the national assets which need to be developed and kept. Lontara, traditional script in Indonesia, is the one which is still exist in use in South Sulawesi, although it is restricted in small areas. The term Lontara means history and science, and the second meaning is something written, or an article. Lontara script is also well known as Bugis Script or Makassar Script, but people prefer saying it as Lontara Script. The effort to introduce the Lontara is done in the following ways firstly by introducing the use and the benefit of  the script. People are usually not interested to something because they do not know it. Secondly, it is done by reading and writing. Thirdly is by promoting the people to use it in daily written communication. Fourth is by using it in a publication, or written media, because this script needs to be spread out through a latest modern technology. Fifth is showing the Lontara to the people in a form of  Artistic Craft, or paintings. Keywords: script, lontara, traditional, communication, publication.
Fetal Abdominal Obesity Detected At 24 to 28 Weeks of Gestation Persists Until Delivery Despite Management of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Kim Wonjin , Park Soo Kyung , Kim Yoo Lee
Published: March 2021

Background: Fetal abdominal obesity (FAO) has been reported to be affected at gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) diagnosis at 24 to 28 weeks of gestation in older and/or obese women. This study investigated whether the management of GDM improves FAO in GDM subjects near term.Methods: Medical records of 7,099 singleton pregnant women delivering at CHA Gangnam Medical Center were reviewed retrospectively. GDM was diagnosed by 100-g oral glucose tolerance test after 50-g glucose challenge test based on Carpenter–Coustan criteria. GDM subjects were divided into four study groups according to maternal age and obesity. FAO was defined as ≥90th percentile of fetal abdominal overgrowth ratios (FAORs) of the ultrasonographically estimated gestational age (GA) of abdominal circumference per actual GA by the last menstruation period, biparietal diameter, or femur length, respectively.Results: As compared with normal glucose tolerance (NGT) subjects near term, FAORs and odds ratio for FAO were significantly higher in old and/or obese women with GDM but not in young and nonobese women with GDM. For fetuses of GDM subjects with FAO at the time of GDM diagnosis, the odds ratio for exhibiting FAO near term and being large for GA at birth were 7.87 (95% confidence interval [CI], 4.38 to 14.15) and 10.96 (95% CI, 5.58 to 20.53) compared with fetuses of NGT subjects without FAO at GDM diagnosis.Conclusion: Despite treatment, FAO detected at the time of GDM diagnosis persisted until delivery. Early diagnosis and treatment might be necessary to prevent near term FAO in high-risk older and/or obese women.
Effect of Preoperative Tumor Under-Staging on the Long-term Survival of Patients Undergoing Radical Gastrectomy for Gastric Cancer
Authors: Lin Mi , Chen Qi-Yue , Zheng Chao-Hui , Li Ping , Xie Jian-Wei , Wang Jia-Bin , Lin Jian-Xian , Huang Chang-Ming
Published: March 2021

Purpose This study aimed to evaluate the effect of preoperative tumor staging deviation (PTSD) on the long-term survival of patients undergoing radical gastrectomy for gastric cancer (RGGC).Materials and Methods Clinicopathological data of 2,346 patients who underwent RGGC were retrospectively analyzed. The preoperative tumor-lymph node-metastasis (TNM) under-staging group (uTNM) comprised patients who had earlier preoperative TNM than postoperative TNM, and the no preoperative under-staging group (nTNM) comprised the remaining patients.Results There were 1,031 uTNM (44.0%) and 1,315 nTNM cases (56.0%). Cox prognostic analysis revealed that PTSD independently affected the overall survival (OS) after surgery. The 5-year OS was lower in the uTNM group (41.8%) than in the nTNM group (71.6%). The patients less than 65 years old, with lower American Society of Anaesthesiologists score, 2-5 cm tumor located at the lower stomach, and cT1 or cN0 preoperative staging would more likely undergo D1+ lymph node dissection (LND) in uTNM (p < 0.05). Logistic analyses revealed that tumor size > 2 cm and body mass index ≤ 22.72 kg/m2 were independent risk factors of preoperative TNM tumor under-staging in patients with cT1N0M0 staging (p < 0.05).Conclusion Underestimated tumor staging is not rare, which possibly results in inadequate LND and affects the long-term survival for patients undergoing RGGC. D2 LND should be carefully performed in patients who are predisposed to this underestimation.
Neonatal Parotitis: A case report
Authors: Nawal Khan  , Asad Abdullah  , Farhana Zafar
Published: March 2021

Abstract
The following is a case report of a 17-day old female baby, born at 35 weeks’ gestation, weighing 2.6 kilograms. She presented to us with reluctance to feed, swelling over the left side of her face and a fever documented at 102F, along with an erythematous, tender, localized swelling over the left pre-auricular region that measured 2 x 1.5cm in size. Diagnostic workup revealed ultrasound findings consistent with parotitis, however, her blood culture was negative. The patient was managed on antibiotics but subsequently, developed a nosocomial infection during her admission, which prolonged her hospital stay to a total of 16 days. Nevertheless, she had complete resolution of signs and symptoms on her follow-up visit.
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Comparison of effectiveness of muscle energy technique with Mulligan mobilization in patients with non-specific neck pain
Authors: Anam Manzoor  , Naveed Anwar  , Kehkshan khalid  , Rizwan Haider  , Mehwish Saghir  , Muhammad Asif Javed
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background: Neck pain is very common in general population. The onset of pain may be sudden or insidious, recurrent or persistent in nature. The prevalence of neck pain in Pakistan is not known. The neck pain that persists for more than 3 months is called chronic neck pain. There are different physiotherapy techniques to manage nonspecific neck pain including Mulligan mobilization and muscle energy technique.
Objective: to compare the efficacy of muscle energy technique with Mulligan mobilization in patients having non-specific neck pain.
Methodology: This quasi-experimental study was conducted at Mayo hospital physiotherapy department, Lahore. The study duration was six months from March 2017 to September 2017. Sample size calculated was 56 by using g power software. Random sampling technique was used. Subjects were divided into two groups. In the group 1 patients; muscle energy technique was used and in group 2; Mulligan mobilization as natural apophyseal glides (NAGs) and sustained natural apophyseal glides (SNAGs) were used. The pain intensity, functional status of neck and cervical range of motion (ROM) were measured before and after treatment session by using visual analogue (VAS), neck disability index (NDI) and goniometer. Independent t-test was applied for between group analysis.
Results: The mean age of participants is 36.89±9.28. The mean improvement in pain intensity was 3.61 for the Muscle energy technique group and for Mulligan group it was 4.86 after three weeks’ treatment. The functional status score according to neck disability index (NDI) pre-treatment mean for the group 1 was 12.04±4.69 and
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Exclusión, pobreza y derechos humanos en América Latina
Authors: Hernández Veráztica América Elvira
Published: March 2021

No abstract available.
ECA Estudios Centroamericanos, Vol. 64, No. 722, 2009: 439-450.
PERCEPÇÕES DOS REPRESENTANTES DE COMITÊS DE BACIA DO ESTADO DE ALAGOAS SOBRE O PROCESSO DECISÓRIO E EFETIVIDADE DOS ORGANISMOS DE BACIA PARA A GESTÃO DAS ÁGUAS
Authors: MatosMatos Fernanda
Published: March 2021

Neste artigo buscou-se identificar a percepção dos representantes sobre o processo decisório no âmbito dos comitês de bacias hidrográficas do estado de Alagoas e como percebem os organismos de bacia como espaços efetivos, tanto internamente, ou seja, a capacidade de organizar e promover discussões produtivas nesses espaços, quanto externamente, de forma a traduzir em proposições impactos em diferentes espaços e articulações com diferentes órgãos e atores. A postura epistemológica adotada para o desenvolvimento da pesquisa é de natureza interpretativa, e a obtenção das respostas foi realizada pela aplicação de um questionário de pesquisa, meio eletrônico para os representantes dos Comitês de Bacia Hidrográfica abrangidos. No processo de análise das respostas recebidas foram excluídas aquelas consideradas como duplicidades e as incongruentes, resultando na obtenção de uma amostra de 46% dos assentos, incluindo titulares e suplentes. Levando em consideração as percepções dos representantes participantes dos comitês de bacia hidrográfica de Alagoas, pode se concluir de modo geral que a situação atual dos comitês é preocupante e que sua estrutura ainda se mostra frágil.
O ENGENHEIRO DE SEGURANÇA DO TRABALHO COMO GARANTIDOR DE CONDIÇÕES LABORAIS SALUBRES PARA O PEQUENO PRODUTOR RURAL IRRIGANTE
Authors: Lima Sampaio Alexsandro , Nunes Marques Camila , Moreira de Melo Filho Orlando , Xeres Francisco Carlos
Published: March 2021

O Brasil teve um crescimento acelerado da agricultura na última década e, em consequência disso, ocorreu a produção e utilização de um grande número de novos defensivos agrícolas, tornando o Brasil um dos maiores consumidores desse insumo no mundo. Objetivou-se nesse trabalho, de modo geral, contextualizar a discussão sobre o desenvolvimento da agricultura no Brasil e no Mundo e o consequente aumento na utilização dos chamados defensivos agrícolas. Como objetivo específico, procedeu-se a caracterização do pequeno produtor irrigante de um projeto público de irrigação de acordo com a nova Lei de Irrigação, e por último, elencou-se as atribuições dos Engenheiros de Segurança do Trabalho na sua atuação relativa aos cuidados no manuseio e aplicação dos agrotóxicos na defesa e garantia de integridade laboral do trabalhador rural. Para a concretização do presente trabalho foi adotado o procedimento metodológico da pesquisa investigativa através de um levantamento bibliográfico criterioso sobre a temática abordada em livros, legislação oficial, publicações científicas, normas e resoluções, dentre outros; como forma de garantir respaldo técnico e científico para o presente artigo. As considerações finais destacam que é dever do Engenheiro de Segurança do Trabalho voltar-se, precipuamente, para a proteção do trabalhador rural em todas as unidades laborais no que se refere a questões de segurança do trabalho. Vê-se, nesse profissional, um garantidor efetivo da segurança laboral do pequeno produtor rural irrigante dos Projetos Públicos de Irrigação-PPIs.
The Effect of the Wenchuan and Lushan Earthquakes on the Size
Distribution of Earthquakes along the Longmenshan Fault
Authors: Hui Chun , Cheng Changxiu , Shen Shi , Gao Peichao , Chen Jin , Yang Jing , Zhao Min
Published: March 2021

Abstract. Changes in the stress state of faults and their surroundings is a highly plausible mechanism explaining earthquakes interaction. These stress changes can impact the seismicity rate and the size distribution of earthquakes. However, the effect of large earthquakes on the earthquake size distribution along the Longmenshan fault has not been quantified. We evaluated the levels of the b value for the stable state before and after the large earthquakes on 12 May 2008 (Wenchuan, MS 8.0) and 20 April 2013 (Lushan, MS 7.0) along the Longmenshan fault. We found that after the mainshocks, the size distribution of the subsequent earthquakes shifted toward relatively larger events in the Wenchuan aftershock zone (b value decreased from 1.03 to 0.84), and generally remained invariable in the Lushan aftershock zone (b value remained at 0.76). The time required for the b value to return to stable states after both mainshocks were entirely consistent with the time needed by the aftershock depth images to stop visibly changing. The result of the temporal variation of b values show decreasing trends for the b value before both large earthquakes. Our results are available for assessing the potential seismic risk of the Longmenshan fault as a reference.
Diverging future surface mass balance between the Antarctic ice shelves and grounded ice sheet
Authors: Kittel Christoph , Amory Charles , Agosta Cécile , Jourdain Nicolas C. , Hofer Stefan , Delhasse Alison , Doutreloup Sébastien , Huot Pierre-Vincent , Lang Charlotte , Fichefet Thierry , Fettweis Xavier
Published: March 2021

Abstract. The future surface mass balance (SMB) will influence the ice dynamics and the contribution of the Antarctic ice sheet (AIS) to the sea level rise. Most of recent Antarctic SMB projections were based on the fifth phase of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5). However, new CMIP6 results have revealed a +1.3 ∘C higher mean Antarctic near-surface temperature than in CMIP5 at the end of the 21st century, enabling estimations of future SMB in warmer climates. Here, we investigate the AIS sensitivity to different warmings with an ensemble of four simulations performed with the polar regional climate model Modèle Atmosphérique Régional (MAR) forced by two CMIP5 and two CMIP6 models over 1981–2100. Statistical extrapolation enables us to expand our results to the whole CMIP5 and CMIP6 ensembles. Our results highlight a contrasting effect on the future grounded ice sheet and the ice shelves. The SMB over grounded ice is projected to increase as a response to stronger snowfall, only partly offset by enhanced meltwater run-off. This leads to a cumulated sea-level-rise mitigation (i.e. an increase in surface mass) of the grounded Antarctic surface by 5.1 ± 1.9 cm sea level equivalent (SLE) in CMIP5-RCP8.5 (Relative Concentration Pathway 8.5) and 6.3 ± 2.0 cm SLE in CMIP6-ssp585 (Shared Socioeconomic Pathways 585). Additionally, the CMIP6 low-emission ssp126 and intermediate-emission ssp245 scenarios project a stabilized surface mass gain, resulting in a lower mitigation to sea level rise than in ssp585. Over the ice shelves, the strong run-off increase associated with higher temperature is projected to decrease the SMB (more strongly in CMIP6-ssp585 compared to CMIP5-RCP8.5). Ice shelves are however predicted to have a close-to-present-equilibrium stable SMB under CMIP6 ssp126 and ssp245 scenarios. Future uncertainties are mainly due to the sensitivity to anthropogenic forcing and the timing of the projected warming. While ice shelves should remain at a close-to-equilibrium stable SMB under the Paris Agreement, MAR projects strong SMB decrease for an Antarctic near-surface warming above +2.5 ∘C compared to 1981–2010 mean temperature, limiting the warming range before potential irreversible damages on the ice shelves. Finally, our results reveal the existence of a potential threshold (+7.5 ∘C) that leads to a lower grounded-SMB increase. This however has to be confirmed in following studies using more extreme or longer future scenarios.
Changes in the Area, Thickness, and Volume of the Thwaites B30 Iceberg Observed by Satellite Altimetry and Imagery
Authors: Braakmann-Folgmann Anne , Shepherd Andrew , Ridout Andy
Published: March 2021

Abstract. Icebergs account for half of all ice loss from Antarctica and, once released, present a hazard to maritime operations. Their melting leads to a redistribution of cold fresh water around the Southern Ocean which, in turn, influences water circulation, promotes sea ice formation, and fosters primary production. In this study, we combine CryoSat-2 satellite altimetry with MODIS and Sentinel-1 satellite imagery to track changes in the area, freeboard, thickness, and volume of the B30 tabular iceberg between 2012 and 2018. We track the iceberg elevation when it was attached to Thwaites Glacier and on a further 106 occasions after it calved using Level 1b CryoSat data, which ensures that measurements recorded in different modes and within different geographical zones are consistently processed. From these data, we mapped the icebergs freeboard and estimated its thickness taking snowfall and changes in snow and ice density into account. We compute changes in freeboard and thickness relative to the initial average for each overpass and compare this time series to precisely located tracks using the satellite imagery. This comparison shows that our time series of iceberg freeboard change is in good agreement with the geolocated overpasses (correlation coefficient 0.87), and suggests that geolocation reduces the uncertainty by 1.6 m. We also demonstrate that the snow layer has a significant impact on iceberg thickness change. Changes in the iceberg area are measured by tracing its perimeter and we show that alternative estimates based on arc lengths recorded in satellite altimetry profiles and on measurements of the semi-major and semi-minor axes also capture the trend, though with a 48 % overestimate and a 15 % underestimate, respectively. Since it calved, the area of B30 has decreased from 1500 +/− 60 to 426 +/− 27 km2, its mean freeboard has fallen from 49.0 +/− 4.6 to 38.8 +/− 2.2 m, and its mean thickness has reduced from 315 ± 36 to 198 ± 14 m. The combined loss amounts to an 80 +/− 16 % reduction in volume, two thirds (69 ± 14 %) of which is due to fragmentation and the remainder (31 ± 11 %) is due to basal melting.
The Effect of Low-Intensity Extracorporeal Shockwave Treatment on the Urinary Bladder in an Experimental Diabetic Rat Model
Authors: Dimitriadis Fotios , Papaioannou Maria , Sokolakis Ioannis , Fragou Aikaterini , Hatzichristou Dimitrios , Apostolidis Apostolos
Published: March 2021

Purpose: Preclinical data increasingly support an impact of low-intensity extracorporeal shockwave therapy (Li-ESWT) on the bladder. We investigated the molecular effects of Li-ESWT on the bladder of a streptozotocin-induced diabetic rat model.Methods: Fifteen 8-week-old male Wistar rats were randomized into 3 groups: a control group (n=5), a group of diabetic rats without treatment (diabetes mellitus [DM], n=5) and a group of diabetic rats treated with Li-ESWT (DM-ESWT, n=5). A single intraperitoneal dose of streptozotocin (60 mg/kg) was used to induce diabetes. Twenty days after diabetes induction, each rat in the DM-ESWT group received 300 shockwaves with an energy flux density of 0.09 mJ/mm2. Sessions were repeated 3 times/week for 2 weeks, followed by a 2-week washout period. Total RNA from bladder tissue was extracted, cDNA was synthesized, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was performed to analyze the expression pattern of transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (Trpv1), interleukin-1β (Il1b), and the muscarinic receptors M1, M2, and M3 (Chrm1, Chrm2, and Chrm3).Results: The expression of Trpv1, Il1b, and Chrm2 genes was significantly different between the 3 groups (P=0.002, P<0.0001, and P=0.011, respectively; 1-way analysis of variance). In the DM group, the expression of all genes was higher than in the control group, but statistical significance was observed only for Trpv1 and Il1b (P=0.002 and P<0.0001, respectively). Li-ESWT significantly reduced the expression of Il1b and Chrm2 (P=0.001 and P=0.011, respectively), whereas a nonsignificant tendency for reduced expression was noted for Trpv1 (P=0.069).Conclusions: The induction of diabetes was associated with increased expression of genes related to mechanosensation, inflammation/ischemia, and contraction in the rat bladder. Li-ESWT reduced the expression of IL1b, Chrm2, and to a lesser extent Trpv1 toward the control levels, suggesting the therapeutic potential of this treatment modality for diabetic cystopathy.
Motivadores da imersão em redes e abordagens empreendedoras causal e effectual
Authors: Fabris Juliana , Aoki Vanessa Cristina Grabowski , Machado Hilka Pelizza Vier , Carvalho Carlos Eduardo
Published: March 2021

Research aim: To describe possible distinct effects between the causation and effectuation approach regarding the perception of factors that motivate business networking.Method/Approach: We present a quantitative research carried out through convenience sampling, a type of non-probabilistic sampling. We conducted a factor analysis and analysis of variance (ANOVA).Originality/Relevance: There are only a few studies that associate the engagement of entrepreneurs in networks with entrepreneurial actions guided by the two different logics: causation, which emphasizes the selection of means to create the desired effect; and effectuation, which emphasizes possible effects to be created through the means available.Main findings: The findings show that there are significant differences between causal and effectual approaches to entrepreneurship and factors that motivate the participation in networks. The causal and effectual logic are not mutually exclusive; however, the intensity in each one entailed differences in the factors that motivate entrepreneurs to engage in networks. The research shows that causal and effectual entrepreneurs were motivated to participate in networks focusing mainly on benefits for the company.Theoretical/Methodological contributions: This research contributes not only to network studies, but also to entrepreneurship, considering that it highlights possible differences among the factors that motivate the insertion in networks by causal and effectual entrepreneurs. In addition, our study also explored the effect of different control variables on the perception of benefits from networking; these variables, however, had no influence on the perception of such benefits.
Thin-Film Solar Cells Performances Optimization: Case of Cu (In, Ga) Se2-ZnS
Authors: Tchangnwa Nya Fridolin , Maurel Dzifack Kenfack Guy
Published: March 2021

In this chapter, we investigate a way of improving solar cells performances. By focusing studies on optimizing the structural, the opto-electrical and electronic properties of materials that constitute the layers and interfaces of a solar device, such as electrical susceptibility, doping concentration, mobility of charge carriers and crystallographic structure, it is possible to improve the output parameters of a solar cell. Working on a CIGSe-based second-generation ultra-thin solar cell model, and using Zinc Sulfide (ZnS) as a window layer, and based on recent studies, vital information are found on the optimal values of these properties that may enhance the efficiency of the cell. A correct modeling of the device with a trusted software such as SCAPS and an appropriate set of the exact conditions and parameters of simulation allow to obtain very promising results. In particular, for nanoscale and microscale thicknesses of buffer and absorber layers materials respectively, and with an appropriate choice of other materials properties such as intrinsic doping concentration, electrons and holes mobilities, it is possible to record efficiencies and fill factors of more than 26% and 85% respectively. These values are very promising for solar energy harvesting technologies development through CIGSe – ZnS based solar devices.
Nontraditional Feedstuffs as an Alternative in Poultry Feed
Authors: I. Alshelmani Mohamed , A. Abdalla Emhimad , Kaka Ubedullah , Abdul Basit Muhammad
Published: March 2021

Soybean meal and yellow corn are conventional feedstuffs used as the main ingredients in poultry feeds due to their high nutrients availability. On the other hand, these two feedstuffs are high in demand by other animals (soybean meal) and humans (yellow corn). By the year 2050, the world’s population is expected to increase up to 9.1 billion. Global consumption of poultry products, such as meat or eggs is increasing predominantly in developing countries. Consequently, the global demand for poultry feedstuffs would increase. The availability of feedstuffs for poultry nutrition nowadays is becoming more competitive. Thus, food security, especially in the developing countries, would be threatened. Currently, efforts are being made to use alternative feedstuffs to substitute portion of soybean meal and yellow corn in poultry diets. This chapter discusses the alternative feedstuffs that can be incorporated in poultry feeds. In addition, the nutritive content and availability are examined as well as how to improve the nutritive quality of such nontraditional feedstuffs.
Risk of Cardiovascular Diseases Among Older Breast Cancer Survivors in the United States: A Matched Cohort Study
Authors: Matthews Anthony A. , Peacock Hinton Sharon , Stanway Susannah , Lyon Alexander R. , Smeeth Liam , Bhaskaran Krishnan , Lund Jennifer L.
Published: March 2021

Background:It has been suggested that cardiovascular risks are increased in breast cancer survivors, but few studies have quantified the risks of a range of specific clinically important cardiovascular outcomes in detail.Patients and Methods:Women aged >65 years with incident breast cancer from 2004 to 2013 in the SEER-Medicare linked database were matched with 5 cancer-free female counterparts (5:1 ratio). Prevalence of specific cardiovascular outcomes at baseline was measured, then Cox regression was used to calculate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals for the risk of individual cardiovascular outcomes during follow-up. Modification of the effect was investigated by time since diagnosis, race/ethnicity, prior cardiovascular disease (CVD), and age.Results:In all, 91,473 women with breast cancer and 454,197 without breast cancer were included. Women with breast cancer had lower baseline prevalence of all CVDs. Compared with cancer-free controls, breast cancer survivors had substantially increased risks of deep vein thrombosis (adjusted HR, 1.67; 95% CI, 1.62–1.73; 386,484 person-years of follow-up) and pericarditis (HR, 1.43; 95% CI, 1.38–1.49; 390,776 person-years of follow-up); evidence of smaller increased risks of sudden cardiac arrest, arrhythmia, heart failure, and valvular heart disease (adjusted HRs ranging from 1.05–1.09, lower CI limits all ≥1); and evidence of lower risk of incident angina, myocardial infarction, revascularization, peripheral vascular disease, and stroke (adjusted HRs ranging from 0.89–0.98, upper CI limits all ≤1). Increased risks of arrhythmia, heart failure, pericarditis, and deep vein thrombosis persisted >5 years after cancer diagnosis.Conclusions:Women with a history of breast cancer were at increased risk of several CVDs, persisting into survivorship. Monitoring and managing cardiovascular risk throughout the long-term follow-up of women diagnosed with breast cancer should be a priority.