bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Severe pre-eclampsia in the gynecology and obstetrics department of the CHR of Koudougou: epidemiological, clinical, therapeutic and prognostic aspects
Authors: Djiguemde Nebnomyidboumbou Norbert Wenceslas , Lankoande Martin , Pitroipa3 Samira L. , Ouedraogo Estelle , Dabire N. S. Madeleine , Bonane Blandine Thieba
Published: May 2021

Background: To study the epidemiological, clinical, therapeutic and prognostic aspects of severe pre-eclampsia in the gynecology and obstetrics department of the CHR of Koudougou.Methods: descriptive cross-sectional study with prospective collection from January 1 to December 31, 2018. The variables studied focused on clinical socio-demographic characteristics, treatment and prognosis. The women admitted to the department and meeting the criteria for severe pre-eclampsia were included, more than 20 weeks of amenorrhea with an increase in blood pressure, presence of albumin in the urine and signs of clinical or biological seriousness.Results: Severe pre-eclampsia represented 2.3% of admissions and 3% of deliveries. The clinical profile was that of a young housewife (51.2%), married (72.4%), nulliparous (44.1%) with a pregnancy in the 3rd trimester. Symptoms were dominated by headache (53.5%) and diastolic blood pressure ≥110 mmHg (66.9%), with albuminuria greater than two crosses and hyperuricemia. Magnesium sulfate and clonidine were the most commonly prescribed anticonvulsant and antihypertensive drug, respectively. Cesarean section was performed in 53% of cases.Maternal complications were noted in 57.5% of cases without death. However, the fetus took a heavy toll with 50.7% morbidity and 14% perinatal mortality.Conclusions: Severe pre-eclampsia is responsible for heavy morbidity - perinatal mortality. Improving maternal and fetal prognosis will require compliance with treatment protocols and greater accessibility of care at all levels of the health pyramid.
A prospective study on association of primary infertility and fibroid uterus
Authors: Aggarwal Shikha , Rahim Maryam , Singh Tarini , Maji Debkalyan
Published: May 2021

Background: Implication of fibroid uterus on infertility is still debateable. Co-existence of infertility and fibroid uterus has been observed many times in clinical practice. This study is conducted to ascertain the frequency of primary infertility in women suffering from fibroid.Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted at Altnagelvin hospital, Northern Ireland from July 2019 to December 2019. Total 100 patients were participated in the study. All data were collected and analysed using SPPS ver 20 software.Results: During the study period, a total of one hundred women presented with fibroid uterus were observed. All the cases were within the reproductive age group ranging from 20-43 years of age. 40% for cases were between 20-27 years, 49% cases were between 28-35 years and 11% belonged to 36-43 years of age. Considering the symptoms, infertility was 14%. According to the number of fibroids, in 22% of cases, there were multiple fibroids. The single uterine fibroid was seen in 78% of cases.Conclusions: Fibroid is relatively common in patients of reproductive age and was associated with infertility in 14% of cases.
Antenatal rescue corticosteroids and perinatal outcome
Authors: Ahtar Nishat , Singh Parul , Shahrukh Naghma , Haider Aleena
Published: May 2021

Background: Antenatal corticosteroids (ACS) is one of the most effective intervention for prevention of neonatal complications in preterm babies. However, due to its transient effects, single repeat course is recommended. This rescue course of ACS is believed to improve feto-maternal outcome in women with preterm labor and was the subject matter of this study.Methods: Total 200 antenatal women who were admitted for threatened preterm labor, between 28 to 34 weeks of gestation, who had already received a single course of ACS within 7-14 days were allocated into group A and group B. Group A included 100 women, who were given rescue course of ACS. Group B included 100 women who rescue course was not given.Results: Out of 115 babies in group A and 114 babies in group B, 18 babies (16%) in group A and 30 babies (26%) in group B had NICU admission (p<0.05). Eight babies (6%) in group A and 23 babies (20%) in group B were diagnosed with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) where the difference was statistically highly significant (p<0.001). Maternal outcome was similar among both the groups.Conclusions: A single repeat rescue course of ACS helps to improve neonatal outcome in preterm babies.
Perinatal outcome of stage-based management of fetal growth restriction in a government tertiary care hospital in Kerala, India
Authors: Rangarajan Bhargavi , Karunakaran Lalithambica
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND: Fetal Growth Restriction (FGR) is the largest contributing factor to perinatal morbidity, mortality and impaired neurodevelopment. This research strives to elucidate the perinatal outcomes of stage based management of fetal growth restriction using Obstetric Doppler and its  association with maternal sociodemographic profile.METHODS: The research was  conducted among 320 antenatal women whose Estimated Fetal weight was  <10th centile. Periodic follow up with Doppler was done and managed as per the stage of FGR. Perinatal outcomes were compiled.RESULTS: The incidence of FGR in T.D Medical College, Alappuzha  was 15.23%. SGA  accounted for 47 %.  The proportion of early and late onset FGR was  10.3%    &   89.7%    respectively.  57.18% of the newborns were admitted to NICU.  The common complications were: Low birth weight – 47.8% ARDS – 21% , Sepsis – 9.6%, Necrotizing enterocolitis – 4%, Hyperbilirubinemia – 4.9%. The incidence of Neonatal death and stillbirth were 1.56% and 0.3% respectively. Mothers who were underweight, inadequate weight gain during pregnancy and short inter pregnancy interval had increased risks. Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy was the commonly associated medical condition. CONCLUSION: Prolongation of pregnancy  even by one day results in 2% increased chances of survival of the newborn. Hence, it becomes imperative to identify the benign forms of FGR  to prevent iatrogenic prematurity. Antenatal women should be screened for risk factors and undergo vigilant antepartum surveillance to bring about favourable perinatal outcome.
Effectiveness of recombinant hepatitis B vaccine with/without the passive hepatitis B immunoglobulin vaccine in babies whose mothers are hepatitis B surface antigen positive in a private missionary hospital
Authors: Abiodun Olusanya , Onibonoje Omobolaji , Ola Oluwadara , Ishola Sophie
Published: May 2021

Background: Hepatitis B infection is a potentially life-threatening liver infection. The burden is more in the less developed countries. Vaccination is the most cost-effective way to control hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and its chronic complications globally. Active-passive immunoprophylaxis using hepatitis B immunoglobulin combined with recombinant hepatitis B vaccine is recommended for infants of women with chronic HBV infection. This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of the hepatitis B recombinant vaccine alone or combined with hepatitis B immunoglobulin.Methods: The study was a prospective longitudinal study. Patients were selected using a convenient sampling technique. The study spanned between 1 January 2017 and 31 December 2018. Data analysis was with SPSS version 21.Results: The unit recorded 1690 deliveries during the recruitment period, 70 eligible patients were recruited thus giving an incidence of 4.1%. 74.3% of the recruited patients were HBeAg negative while 25.7% were HBeAg positive. 52.9% of the babies had only recombinant HB recombinant vaccine while 47.1% had combined hepatitis B immunoglobulin and the recombinant vaccine at birth. The HBeAg status of mothers played a significant factor in the HBsAg positivity of babies two months after the completion of immunoprophylaxis against HBV.Conclusions: Giving recombinant HBV vaccine in combination with the HBV immunoglobulin is the standard practice, this may not always be so based on the findings from this study. However, the population studied is too small to make a categorical statement thus a larger population needs to be studied.
Medical management of cervical pregnancy following in vitro fertilization
Authors: Yelurkar Nilofar I. , Satia Meena N. , Badhwar Vijaya R.
Published: May 2021

Cervical ectopic gestation is a serious and potentially lethal condition encountered in patients undergoing invitro fertilization. Familiarity with these complications will allow accurate and timely diagnosis and help avert potentially disastrous consequences We report a rare case of cervical pregnancy after in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer successfully treated with Methotrexate.
Association of the level of cognition and obesity among middle-aged adults in Sri Lanka
Authors: Ariyasinghe Pushpika , Kumara Ruwan , Alexander Dham , Senarathna Harsha , Kasthuri Sunethra , Galgamuwa Lahiru Sandaruwan , Karunathilaka Nimantha , Warnakulasuriya Sudath
Published: May 2021

Background: Cognition is the collection of an intellectual process, such as perception, thinking, and reasoning for goal-directed behaviours. The obesity-associated cognitive functions (CFs) was varied due to inconsistency of the findings and it is also context bounded. The objective was to assess the association between cognitive function and obesity among middle-aged adults in Sri Lanka.Methods: A descriptive study was conducted among middle-aged adults aged between 50-60 years in Colombo District, Sri Lanka. While Generalized obesity was estimated by the WHO cutoff of body mass index (BMI) while the central obesity was determined using and waist hip ratio (WHR). CFs was assessed using a validated Montreal cognitive assessment (MoCA) and the Mini-mental state examination (MMSE) tools.Results: The study sample consisted of 83 subjects of each obese and normal weight categories, while 50% were females. Middle-aged adults with obesity showed significantly lower CF scores in both MoCA and MMSE compared to the normal-weight adults (p<0.01). In addition, lower MMSE scores were significantly associated with high WHR values (p<0.05). The level of education of adults was a significant predictor of cognitive functions among middle-aged adults (p<0.05).Conclusions: Therefore, the results further confirmed that obesity-associated cognitive impairment among middle-aged adults and further research is warranted to clarify the cause and effect relationship between obesity and body composition.
The effect of polycystic ovarian syndrome on the mental health of women of reproductive age
Authors: Adebisi Oluwatoni D. , Denwigwe-aggrey Blessing C. , Tairu Ashiat Bolanle , Ozoemena Ngozichukwu , David Joy F. , Monday Esther Olunu
Published: May 2021

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is defined as a hormonal disorder that is prevalent among women of reproductive age. It affects the metabolic, endocrine, and reproductive systems of the body as well as mental health. We compared up to 20 peer-reviewed literature that displayed the relationship between PCOS and mental health. We searched the PMC/NCBI/NIH database and we used the following keywords while searching the database: "polycystic ovarian syndrome" or "PCOS" and "mental health" or "depression" or "anxiety" or "low self-esteem" were included in the search for articles. Women of reproductive age are seen to be affected by PCOS. The effect of polycystic ovarian syndrome on the mental health of women of reproductive age has serious complications. Complications include an increased rate of anxiety and depression in the individual. When there is an increase in depression and anxiety, it tends to affect the physical changes and the confidence of women with PCOS. PCOS has been proven to be incurable but its symptoms can be managed. PCOS is linked with mental health and it has serious implications on the psychological health of the individual. Management of PCOS should include an early assessment of the patients’ mental health. If required, medications for mental health improvement should be prescribed in addition to medication for treating the physical and biochemical symptoms of PCOS.
The key complications of hemophilia and recent advancements in their management: an update
Authors: Azhar Afrisya Adlina Mohd , Raj Alicia Ann , Izam Filzah , Mokhtar Muhmammad Danial , Zakaria Nur Asfarina Izzati Aziz , Banerjee Kishore Gopal
Published: May 2021

Hemophilia A is an X-linked recessive disorder which is due to factor VIII deficiency. It is a life-threatening coagulation disorder leading to complications including hemophilic-arthropathy, development of inhibitors, transfusion-related infections and profound psychosocial impact on the life of the patients. The aim of this study is to analyze the challenges in complications and the latest advancements in managing those complications. A thorough and systemic literature review was done to fulfill the objective of this study. The emergence of hemophilic arthropathy due to repeated symptoms of hemarthrosis is the most frequent complication found in haemophiliacs. Another critical complication, mainly seen in resource-poor settings is the development of lethal and severe bleeding episodes including episodes of intracranial hemorrhage. The development of inhibitors is another major challenge which often adds profoundly to the financial burden faced by hemophilia patients. Another major challenge is acquiring various transfusion-transmitted infections which was particularly more common few decades back. Studies also have revealed that there are myriads of significant psychosocial effects affecting the quality of life of hemophiliacs. Emerging treatments such as gene therapy, non-clotting factor concentrate products and extended half-life therapy can usher a new era in the management and the quality of life in hemophilia patients.
Role of pre-operative air-bone gap in outcome in tinnitus after undergoing type-1 tympanoplasty in patients with chronic suppurative otitis media
Authors: Mandal Manit M. , Panchal Ajay K. , Kumar Rakesh , Kapadia Parth B.
Published: May 2021

Background: Researches suggest middle ear surgery might improve tinnitus after tympanoplasty. Purpose of this study was to investigate association between pre-operative air-bone gap (ABG) and tinnitus-outcome after tympanoplasty type I.

Methods: 100 patients with tinnitus having more than 6 months of symptoms of chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) that were refractory to medical treatment were included in study. All patients were evaluated through otoendoscopy, pure-tone audiometry, questionnaire-based survey using the visual analogue scale (VAS) and tinnitus handicap inventory (THI) for tinnitus symptoms before and 4 months after tympanoplasty. Inﬂuence of preoperative bone conduction (BC), preoperative air-bone-gap and postoperative air-bone-gap on tinnitus outcome post-operatively was calculated.

Results: Patients were divided into two groups based on preoperative BC of <25 dB or >25 dB. Postoperative improvement of tinnitus in both groups showed statistical signiﬁcance. Patients whose preoperative air-bone-gap was <15 dB showed no improvement in postoperative tinnitus using VAS (p=0.887) and THI (p=0.801). Patients whose preoperative air-bone-gap was >15 dB showed signiﬁcant improvement in postoperative tinnitus using VAS (p<0.01) and THI (p=0.015). Postoperative change in tinnitus showed signiﬁcance compared with preoperative tinnitus using VAS (p=0.006). Correlation between reduction in VAS score and air-bone-gap (p=0.201) or between reduction in THI score and air-bone-gap (p=0.270) was not signiﬁcant.

Conclusions: Preoperative ABG can be a predictor of tinnitus outcome after tympanoplasty in CSOM with tinnitus.

 
Pattern of antibiotic resistance of various strains of bacteria causing acute tonsillitis
Authors: Jyothsna N. , Ramya A. , Abhilash K. , Johnson Bathsa Liza
Published: May 2021

Background: Our study was done to determine the pattern of antibiotic resistance of various strains of bacteria causing acute tonsillitis.

Methods: the study was a randomized cross sectional study. Patients matching the inclusion criteria were included. Duration of study was 6 months.

Results: Out of 120 cases, 46 cases showed no bacterial growth (NBG) and 74 cases showed bacterial growth. 42 cases were gram-negative bacterial strain and 32 cases were positive bacterial strain out of 72 bacterial grown cases. A list of 25 antibiotic drugs in gram-negative and 31 drugs in gram-positive strain, their sensitivity and resistance were taken and noted. Among gram-negative bacteria imipenem (71.4%) showed highest sensitivity. Highest antibiotic resistance was seen in ampicillin (85.71%). Least sensitivity is observed in clindamycin, amoxicillin+clavulanic acid with 2.38%. Among gram-positive bacteria, highest sensitivity was noted in cefotaxime (75%). Highest antibiotic resistance was seen in cotrimoxazole (46.8%). Least sensitivity is observed in netilmicin, sulbactam with 3.12%.

Conclusions: The number of drugs resistant to the gram-positive bacteria are lesser than number of drugs sensitive, which showed significant difference (p<0.05). Significant difference of antibiotic drugs was not found in gram-negative bacteria. Our study findings helped in appropriate and guarded use of the antibiotic drugs in acute tonsillitis, minimizing the exposure of individuals to antibiotic resistance by choosing an appropriate sensitive drug, therefore improving the quality of therapy.
Cystic lesion of the sella turcica: interesting case report and review of literature
Authors: Prabha Blessy B. , Rangachari Vijay , Kovai Priyamvadha , Verma Abha
Published: May 2021

ABSTRACT

Intrasellar arachnoid cysts are rare entities. High index of suspicion and precise radiological evaluation are the cornerstone for appropriate diagnosis and treatment. We present a symptomatic case of a sellar cystic lesion in a 52-year-old lady, who had complaints of decreased vision associated with diplopia of three months duration. Clinical evaluation showed bitemporal hemianopia. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of brain revealed features of sellar arachnoid cyst with the intracystic component similar to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). She underwent endoscopic transnasal transsphenoidal excision of lesion. Her visual symptoms improved well on subsequent follow up.However infrequent, sellar arachnoid cyst should be borne in mind as differential diagnosis for any cystic sellar lesions, as they can mimic pituitary adenomas, either by impairment of pituitary hormonal function or by exerting pressure effects on optic chiasma. Evaluation modalities, therapeutic challenges and literature review are presented in this case report.

 
Twin presentation of rhinocerebral mucormycosis and parotid abscess with facial nerve palsy in a case of unrevealed uncontrolled diabetes mellitus
Authors: Shetti Preeti S. , R. Reshma , B. Prasheetha , Padmavathy O.
Published: May 2021

Rhinocerebral mucormycosis is a saprophytic invasive fungal infection of the nose and paranasal sinuses. The angio-invasive nature of the disease and rapid spread to the surrounding vital structures makes this infection more fatal. Parotid abscess is a rare disease in both adults and children due to an ascending infection from the oral cavity via the parotid duct. Diabetes mellitus is an immuno-compromised state in which patients are more prone for several infections. Both these diseases can lead to fatal complications due to their spread and toxicity, but the one rare complication of both these diseases is Facial nerve palsy. We are presenting a case of Diabetes mellitus with Rhinocerebral mucormycosis and Parotid abscess. There have been very few documented cases of co-existing Rhinocerebral mucormycosis and Parotid abscess in a patient with facial nerve palsy as complication.
Surgical management for inferior turbinate hypertrophy: a narrative review
Authors: Divya Mano Leoni , Rajasekaran Valli , Prakash D. Y. Raj
Published: May 2021

Inferior turbinate hypertrophy can lead to bothersome symptoms of the nose. Inferior turbinate reduction has to be treated surgically for cases, which are refractory to medical treatment. Plethora of surgical techniques have evolved over the recent years to surgically treat inferior turbinate hypertrophy. Yet, there remains a lack of consensus on optimal surgical technique or a cumulative study on the merits and demerits of the surgical procedures performed. The aim of the study was to review 26 articles from time period of January 2000 to January 2021 studied on surgical techniques of turbinate reduction. On reviewing the studies, it was noted that conventional turbinectomy techniques were not preferred by surgeons to avoid chances of severe complications and hence more studies on newer advanced techniques were noted. Among the newer techniques to find an adequate balance between nasal physiology and tissue preservation RFTVR is preferred and is the optimal technique owing to its minimal invasion, performance ease and reduced complications. Most recent studies represent the benefits of RFTVR.  
Prevalence of Celiac Disease in Omani Adults with Iron Deficiency Anemia of Unknown Cause
Authors: Ambusaidi Safa , Al Busaidi Al Manar , Al Salmani Asma , Davidson Robin , Al Shekaili Jalila , Al Kindi Mahmood , Al Kindi Rahma
Published: May 2021

Objectives: This study aimed to estimate the serological prevalence of celiac disease in patients with IDA of unknown cause at primary health care facility. Methods: This is a prospective case finding study that was conducted at the primary care clinics in the Sultan Qaboos University Hospital (SQUH) from September 2018 to June 2020. A total of 104 patients aged 18 to 55 years old, with a hemoglobin (Hb) level less than 11.5 g/dl for males and less than 11.0 g/dl for females and a ferritin level less than 30 ng/mL for males and less than 13 ng/mL for females participated in the study. Blood samples were obtained for an initial serological screen using serum IgA level and then those with normal level of IgA, had IgA- Anti-tissue transglutaminase antibody (tTG) and IgA- anti-deamidated gliadin peptide (DGP). Positive IgA-tTG test was confirmed using IgA-endomysial antibodies. Patients with low IgA level were tested using IgG-tTG and IgG-DGP. Results: Eight patients out of the 104 (7.7%) found to have positive serological screening for celiac disease. Three patients out of the eight (37.5%) had a positive IgA tTG. Two of those three (66.7%) had a positive IgA-endomysial antibody as well. The IgA-DGP was positive in seven patients out of the 104 (6.7 %). Out of those seven patients, two also had a positive IgA tTG. Conclusion: Celiac disease is not a rare disorder. There is a need to increase awareness among healthcare professionals about celiac disease and its non-classical manifestations such as IDA.Keywords: cervical smears, conventional slides, ThinPrep slides, cervical organisms.
Análise da capacidade redutora e cor em vinhos tintos elaborados por assemblage utilizando app photoMetrix
Authors: Pozzatti Martins de Siqueira Marianna , Crivellaro Guerra Celito , Gonzatti Camila , Tischer Bruna , Manfroi Vitor
Published: May 2021

A cor e a capacidade redutora são fatores determinantes da qualidade de um vinho. Estes parâmetros podem ser influenciados pela variedade de uva, condições de cultivo e técnicas de vinificação. A realização de assemblages vem a ser uma ferramenta útil para elaboração de vinhos equilibrados nestes parâmetros. Tem-se como objetivos deste trabalho, analisar a cor e a capacidade redutora empregando o aplicativo PhotoMetrix, que consiste em uma ferramenta que pode substituir análises espectrofotométricas. Como resultados, observou-se que o app PhotoMetrix apresentou bom desempenho para análise da capacidade redutora (valores de exatidão de 91,9% a 114,6%) e conseguiu fazer a discriminação entre os diferentes vinhos, com base na cor a partir da Análise de Componentes Principais. Ademais, demonstrou que vinhos provenientes de uvas como ‘Tannat’ e ‘Marselan’ submetidas a técnicas de vinificação como a termovinificação, providenciam vinhos com elevada capacidade redutora. Desta forma, a realização de assemblages entre vinhos que apresentam menor capacidade redutora com estes tipos de vinhos, auxiliaria na produção de vinhos com capacidade redutora e coloração mais equilibrados.
Desempenho de híbridos de milho safrinha em função de fontes de ureia na adubação de cobertura
Authors: WIEST GABRIEL , PEREIRA CASSIANO SPAZIANI , FIORINI IVAN VILELA ANDRADE , SCHOFFEN MATEUS EMANUEL , PEREIRA HELCIO DUARTE , SILVA ADRIANO ALVES DA
Published: May 2021

Nitrogen is the most required element by the maize crop and suffers the greatest losses due to its inappropriate management, mainly when the urea is used as a source of nitrogen. The objective of this work was to evaluate the efficiency of urea sources, with or without urease inhibitor, in sidedress fertilization of commercial single-cross in off-season in Sinop/MT. The experimental design was completely randomized blocks, in factorial scheme 3 x 5, with 3 replications. The first factorwas three side-dress fertilization: witness (without fertilizer); fertilization with 250 kg ha-1 of urea and fertilization with 250 kg ha-1 of urea in the presence of urease inhibitor (UREMAX®) NBPT. The second factor was five single-crosses: 2B433, DKB255, DKB335, NS45, and SYN522. Vegetative development and yield characteristics were evaluated. The Nitrogen sources did not affect the plant height, stem diameter, and foliar area index, only the chlorophyll content in the leaves. For the yieldcomponents, there is an effect of fertilization on the number of grain rows and grain yield. The singlecrosses differ among them in vegetative development and yield characteristics. The Nitrogen in sidedress, in the conditions of this study, using the urea with urease inhibitor, increased the fertilization efficiency and raised the grain yield. The single-crosses DKB 255, 2B433, and SYN 522, with the treatment based on UREMAX®, reached the highest yield.
The Adyghe-Russian Historical Interaction in the Reflection of the Works of the Adyghen Enlighteners
Authors: Zagazezheva Marianna H.
Published: May 2021

The article examines the features of the Adyghe-Russian relations in the works of the Adyghe educators. Their lives, activities, and socio-political views indicate the complexity and ambiguity of the Adyghe-Russian relations at all stages of their historical interaction. The history of relations between the Adyghes and Russia is full of both military clashes and periods of military cooperation, processes of rapprochement and mutual cultural enrichment. The author formulated and substantiated the idea that the historical context played the main role in the development of the views of the Adyghe enlighteners. The main feature of the worldview of the representatives of the Adyghe intelligentsia - duality is revealed. This was due to the simultaneous belonging of the Adyghe enlighteners to two cultures: Adyghe and Russian. Adyghe enlighteners advocated the integration of the people into the Russian Empire, but openly criticized the military-power methods of conquering the Adyghes. They proposed a number of measures for the peaceful integration of Circassians into the territorial, political, legal and cultural space of Russia, while preserving their national identity.
Efeito da Representação Feminina na Divulgação de Responsabilidade Social Corporativa: Análise Internacional do Setor Energético
Authors: Pinheiro Alan Bandeira , Sampaio Thicia Stela Lima , Batistella Ana Júlia , Carraro Wendy Witt Haddad
Published: May 2021

Objetivo: Investigar o efeito da representação feminina na divulgação da responsabilidade social corporativa nas empresas internacionais do setor energético.Método: A amostra é composta por 62 multinacionais do setor energético sediadas em 25 países. A variável dependente é a divulgação socioambiental e a variáveis independentes utilizadas são: participação feminina no conselho de administração, lei ou código no país sobre diversidade de gênero e retorno sobre patrimônio líquido. A pesquisa analisou 3 anos: 2016 a 2018.Principais resultados: Os resultados indicam que existe uma influência positiva da maior quantidade de mulheres presentes no conselho e apontam, ainda, que a presença delas pode formar uma “massa crítica”, na qual elas se sentem confortáveis para opinar e influenciar a tomada de decisão. Conclui-se que a diversidade de backgrounds entre homens e mulheres colabora para as empresas reportarem relatórios ambientais mais completos.Relevância/originalidade: O estudo apresenta novas evidências acerca do efeito da diversidade feminina na sustentabilidade empresarial, analisando o setor energético em diferentes ambientes institucionais. Além disso, a pesquisa analisa os resultados à luz da Teoria Crítica das Massas, trazendo uma nova direção para os estudos sobre RSC.Contribuições teóricas/metodológicas: Os resultados são analisados através da Teoria das Massas Críticas, uma teoria sociopolítica ainda pouco relacionada à sustentabilidade empresarial. Os resultados podem auxiliar os gestores na elaboração de suas estratégias corporativas, ressaltando o papel da diversidade de gênero nos conselhos.
Natives and Migrants in the Population Structure of Russian and Bashkortostan
Authors: Akhmetova Guldar F.
Published: May 2021

Based on the data of the All-Russian population censuses of 2002 and 2010, as well as the micro-census of 2015, the author examines the dynamics of the structure of the urban and rural population of Russia and Bashkortostan in terms of the representation of two categories of residents – local natives living in a place of permanent residence without leaving, and migrants, that is, those who live in a place since a certain time or are a local native with migration experience. A comparative analysis of the population census data revealed the following trends in the migration mobility of the population of Russia and Bashkortostan in the first decade and a half of this century. The results of the 2002 census showed the dominance of “non-migrants” in the urban and rural population both in the whole country and in Bashkortostan. They were more represented in the republic than in Russia. The intensification of migration processes in the following years led to the reverse ratio of different categories of the population in 2010 – the predominance of migrants and a decrease in the proportion of local natives living without leaving. During this period, migration flows increased not only to cities, but also to rural areas, which also affected the higher representation of rural migrants. Five years later, the 2015 micro-census data brought the population structure closer to the situation in 2002 – the dominance of local natives, which to a certain extent indicates a decrease in the migration mobility of the population. However, the results of the micro-census could also be influenced by organizational and methodological reasons related to different approaches to accounting for the most mobile categories of the population. At the same time, the decline in migration activity of the population in the period between 2010 and 2015 is also indicated by the results of representative sociological studies both in the country as a whole and in the Republic of Bashkortostan. The general trend of changes in the population structure between 2002 and 2015 is characterized by a lower representation of migrants and a greater representation of local natives in Bashkortostan compared to Russia at the beginning of the period under review and the alignment of national and all-Russian indicators by 2015. To a certain extent, this may be due to the fact that the decline in migration mobility of the population in the republic was not as intense as in the whole country. The upcoming population census will provide an opportunity to get a more complete picture of the nature of changes in the genetic structure of the population over the past decade.
EVALUATION OF GREEN MANUFACTURING IMPLEMENTATION ON REGULATION, COSTS, AND KNOWLEDGE
Authors: Adbaidainya Iggy
Published: May 2021

Introduction: This study aims to analyze whether there is motivation of knowledge, regulations, and costs on the effect of the application of Green Manufacturing. Part of green manufacturing has been implemented. However, its implementation is not easy for various reasons and it has not a significant effect on the industrial world from several sectors. Methods: Data collection methods include questionnaires and interviews. This study uses primary data obtained through direct respondents. The statistical analysis tool in this study uses SPSS.Results: Based on the results of data analysis and discussion, it shows that the knowledge variable has a positive effect on the motivation to implement green manufacturing. In addition, the second variable, namely regulation, also shows a positive effect on the motivation to implement green manufacturing. However, the third variable shows that costs have a negative effect on the motivation to implement green manufacturing.Conclusion and suggestion: The results of the analysis prove that the tempe business motivation in Ngawi on implementing green manufacturing tends to be low. This requires synergy between the government and tempe entrepreneurs to applicate the green manufacturing. For the government, there is a need some socialization regarding the application of green manufacturing so that your knowledge of the application of green manufacturing will increase.
Unification of the Electromagnetic Force and Gravity through the Composite Photon
Authors: Clague Ian
Published: May 2021

A deep relationship is identified between the Coulomb Force and Gravity. A gravitational constant for strong gravity is calculated from the relationship. The equivalence between mass and charge is explored. Implications are given for the expansion of Einstein's Field Equations to include vector gravity.
A Feminist Future for the Pacific
Authors: Cliffe Emma
Published: May 2021

The COVID–19 pandemic continues to devastate the lives and wellbeing of millions of people around the world; women and girls, people with disabilities, youth, older people, and sexual and gender minorities are most at risk of ‘being left behind’. While confirmed cases of COVID–19 are low in the Pacific compared with other regions, the threat of the virus remains and the wider social and economic impacts are already evident. Pacific Island countries grappling with pervasive inequality, sustainable development challenges and climate change now must consider their response to the COVID–19 pandemic.

This paper envisions an inclusive and transformative feminist response focused on four key outcomes: preserving access to healthcare and essential services; promoting women’s economic empowerment; protecting women and girls from gender–based violence; and supporting vulnerable and marginalised groups to express their voice and claim their rights amid the pandemic.
Technology Focus: Natural Gas Processing and Handling (April 2021)
Authors: Ekwunife Ifunanya C.
Published: May 2021

In 2020, the spot prices of natural gas hit a record low in the US, reaching the lowest annual average price in more than a decade. Based on US Energy Information Administration (EIA) data, the average annual spot price reported in 2020 was $2.05 per million British thermal units (MMBtu). In the first few months of the year, reports from the EIA showed that natural gas prices started declining amid mild winter temperatures that resulted in a decline in the demand for natural gas for space heating.

In March 2020, following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the already declining natural gas prices plummeted further. This decline continued through the first half of the year. The EIA reported the average monthly Henry Hub spot price in the first 6 months at $1.81/MMBtu. June saw the lowest monthly natural gas price in decades (Henry Hub price aver-aged $1.66/MMBtu). Natural gas prices recovered in the second half of the year as natural gas production decreased and global exports of liquefied natural gas increased.

Natural gas consumption in the residential, commercial, and industrial sectors declined in 2020, according to the EIA. Milder winter temperatures were a major contributor in the first quarter of the year, but overall declining consumption was attributed to reduced economic activities as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. On the other hand, the consumption of natural gas for electric power generation registered an overall increase of 2% more than the 2019 average. According to the EIA, citing S&P Global Platts, this increase was attributed to power producers switching to cheaper natural gas from coal to meet the increased demand for electric power for cooling as summer temperatures increased.

The EIA in its Annual Energy Outlook 2021 projects that the industrial and electric power sectors and net exports will drive the growth in US energy consumption between 2020 and 2050. Natural gas consumption in other sectors is expected to increase steadily or remain flat. The EIA forecasts that natural gas production will increase as consumption increases and prices will stay low relative to past prices. The EIA expects continued growth in natural gas exports as natural gas production surpasses natural gas consumption. Globally, the International Energy Agency forecasts a recovery in global demand for natural gas in 2021 led by growth in the Asia Pacific region as emerging markets recover. The US will continue to play a significant role as one of the largest producers and contributors to natural gas supply growth.

Recommended additional reading at OnePetro: www.onepetro.org.

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Ultrasonic-Assisted Removal of Undesirable Submicron-Sized Particulates To Realize Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Circulation of Drilling Fluid
Authors: Wang Chengwen , Chen Zehua , Chen Erding , Liu Junyi , Xiao Fengfeng , Zhao Hongxiang
Published: May 2021

Removal of useless and submicrometer-sized solids from drilling fluid, which exert significant effects on drilling performance, is a crucial part of sustainable and eco-friendly circulation in drilling operations. However, current solid-control methods for drilling-fluid reuse and recirculation, such as electronic-adsorption and chemical-flocculation methods, are associated with high cost and low efficiency and/or pollution of drilling fluid. In this study, a novel method using ultrasonic waves has been proposed to remove unwanted submicrometer-sized solids from polysulfonate drilling fluids. The results show that the suspension stability, viscosity, and particle size can all be significantly reduced, while the solid-separation ratio of the drilling fluid can be greatly enhanced by ultrasonic-wave treatment. The parameters of ultrasonic waves are optimized to be power of 3 kW, treating time of 30 minutes, treating frequency of 20 kHz, and ventilation (i.e., air) for 5 minutes in a laboratory scale. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis shows that solid particles exhibit more obvious crystal morphology after ultrasonic-wave treatment, indicating that the breaking of gel-structure of drilling fluid due to the cavitation, mechanical, and heat effects of ultrasonic waves is the main mechanism for decreasing the suspension stability. Thus, the proposed ultrasonic-assisted technique has a high potential for removing undesirable solids from drilling fluid and fulfilling its recirculation in a cost-effective and environmentally friendly manner. This new technology has been successively applied to 12 wells, and good results were obtained.
Downregulation of decidual SKP2 is associated with human recurrent miscarriage
Authors: Lv Shijian , Liu Mei , Xu Lizhen , Zhang Cong
Published: May 2021

Background: Recurrent miscarriage (RM) is a very frustrating problem for both couples and clinicians. To date, the etiology of RM remains poorly understood. Decidualization plays a critical role in implantation and the maintenance of pregnancy, and its deficiency is closely correlated with RM. The F-box protein S-phase kinase associated protein 2 (SKP2) is a key component of the SCF-type E3 ubiquitin ligase complex, which is critically involved in ErbB family-induced Akt ubiquitination, aerobic glycolysis and tumorigenesis. SKP2 is pivotal for reproduction, and SKP2-deficient mice show impaired ovarian development and reduced fertility.Methods: Here, we investigated the expression and function of SKP2 in human decidualization and its relation with RM. A total of 40 decidual samples were collected. Quantitative PCR analysis, western blot analysis and immunohistochemistry analysis were performed to analyze the differential expression of SKP2 between RM and control cells. For in vitro induction of decidualization, both HESCs (human endometrial stromal cells) cell line and primary ESCs (endometrial stromal cells) were used to analyze the effects of SKP2 on decidualization via siRNA transfection.Results: Compared to normal pregnant women, the expression of SKP2 was reduced in the decidual tissues from individuals with RM. After in vitro induction of decidualization, knockdown of SKP2 apparently attenuated the decidualization of HESCs and resulted in the downregulation of HOXA10 and FOXM1, which are essential for normal human decidualization. Moreover, our experiments demonstrated that SKP2 silencing reduced the expression of its downstream target GLUT1.﻿Conclusions: Our study indicates a functional role of SKP2 in RM: downregulation of SKP2 in RM leads to impaired decidualization and downregulation of GLUT1 and consequently predisposes individuals to RM.
Effect of RF magnetron sputtering parameters on the optimization of the discharge capacity of ternary lithium oxide thin films
Authors: Lopez Daniel Andres Sanchez , Chagas Luciana Gomes , Batista Aline Domingues , Guaita Maria Gabriella Detone , Amorin Luís Henrique Cardozo , Silva Paulo Rogério Catarini da , Yamanishi Gustavo , Zaia Dimas Augusto Morozin , de Santana Henrique , Urbano Alexandre
Published: May 2021

The increasing demand for lithium-ion batteries has stimulated the investigation of new compounds in order to reduce the costs and the toxicity of their cathodes. Materials constituted of ternary lithiated oxide compounds are a successful alternative to cobalt-rich cathodes. The main disadvantage of ternary compound materials (TCM) is that the maximum amount of electrical charge is only achieved at high redox potentials, a limiting factor if we consider the current development in electrolyte technology. In this work, we investigated the influence of sputtering deposition parameters on the charge capacity of TCM thin films, restraining their electrochemical potential to conventional values. To do so, we analyzed the impact that small changes in crystalline and morphological structures have on the charge capacity at low cell potentials. For this, we performed the RF magnetron sputtering of TCM thin films, and carried out a factorial design of experiments to investigate their electrochemical properties, while limiting the charging potential to 4.20 V vs. Li|Li+. The films were deposited onto a rigid and conductive substrate with different parameters (power and pressure at room temperature). Electrochemical results showed that the discharge capacity is strongly influenced by the deposition parameters, reaching 250 mAh g− 1 even at 4.20 V vs. Li. This value is superior to the ones of the conventional cobalt cathode and the bulk ternary electrode. Both deposition parameters exhibited a synergic dependency, which means that they need to be simultaneously varied for a response optimization. The discharge capacity of the analyzed samples was highly affected by the surface morphology of the film and its crystallographic properties, and not by its elemental composition. High discharge capacity was obtained without additional thermal treatments, which favors the manufacture of films over polymeric substrates for future electronic applications.
No Catalytic Performance Analysis of Gasoline Engine Tapered Variable Cell Density Carrier Catalytic Converter
Authors: Zuo Qingsong , Yang Xiaomei , Zhang Bin , Guan Qingwu , Shen Zhuang , Xie Yongchuan , Li Qiming
Published: May 2021

Improving the flow field uniformity of catalytic converter can promote the catalytic conversion of NO to NO2. Firstly, the physical and mathematical models of improved catalytic converter are established, and its accuracy is verified by experiments. Then, the NO catalytic performance of standard and improved catalytic converters is compared, and the influences of structural parameters on its performance are investigated. The results showed that: (1) The gas uniformity, pressure drop and NO conversion rate of the improved catalytic converter are increased by 0.0643, 6.78% and 7.0% respectively. (2) As the cell density combination is 700 cpsi/600 cpsi, NO conversion rate reaches the highest, 73.7%, and the gas uniformity is 0.9821. (3) When the tapered height is 20 mm, NO conversion rate reaches the highest, 72.4%, the gas uniformity is 0.9744. (4) When the high cell density radius is 20 mm, NO conversion rate reaches the highest, 72.1%, the gas uniformity is 0.9783. (5) When the tapered end face radius is 20 mm, NO conversion rate reaches the highest, 72.0%, the gas uniformity is 0.9784. The results will provide a very important reference value for improving NO catalytic and reducing vehicle emission.
A widespread family of bacterial gene clusters produces ClpP inhibitors
Authors: Wright Gerry , Culp Elizabeth , Sychantha David , Hobson Christian , Pawlowski Andrew , Prehna Gerd
Published: May 2021

Intracellular proteolytic complexes play an essential role in modeling the proteome in both bacteria and eukaryotes. ClpP is the protease subunit of one such highly conserved proteolytic complex that, despite its potential, remains unexploited as a drug target. Here we describe a target-directed genome mining strategy to identify ClpP targeting compounds from the bacterial order Actinomycetales. By searching for biosynthetic gene clusters that contain duplicated copies of ClpP as putative antibiotic resistance genes, we identify a family of ClpP-associated clusters that are widespread across phyla, including environmental and pathogenic bacteria. While numerous bacterial pyrrolizidine alkaloids produced by these gene clusters are known, their connection to ClpP has never been made. We show that these previously characterized molecules do not affect ClpP function but are shunt metabolites derived from the genuine product of these gene clusters, a reactive covalent ClpP inhibitor. Focusing on one such cryptic gene cluster from Streptomyces cattleya DSM 46488, we use heterologous expression to purify the relevant ClpP inhibitor, which we name clipibicyclene. We show in vitro and in vivo that clipibicyclene is a potent covalent inhibitor of ClpP and that cluster-associated ClpPs provide resistance. ClpP inhibition results in antibacterial activity against actinobacteria, including Mycobacterium smegmatis, and inhibition of virulence factor production by Staphylococcus aureus. Finally, we solve the crystal structure of clipibicyclene-modified Escherichia coli ClpP. Clipibicyclene’s discovery deconvolutes the actual function of a family of natural products widespread in nature. It provides a novel scaffold for therapeutic ClpP inhibitor development, making these findings significant from the perspective of their discovery and their clinical potential.