bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neurologic manifestations of COVID-19 infection in Asia: a systematic review
Authors: Widyadharma I. Putu Eka , Hendellyn Alvin , Laksmi Dewi A. A. A. Putri , Adnyana I. Made Oka , Samatra D. P. G. Purwa , Utami Desak Ketut Indrasari
Published: February 2021

Background

COVID-19 infection can show various manifestation, including neurologic manifestations, such asanosmia,ageusia, ordysgeusia, and causes the neurologic disorder such as stroke, Guillain-Barre syndrome, encephalopathy, and many more.

Aim

To briefly review neurologic manifestation in COVID-19 infection in the Asia region (South East Asia and the Western Pacific Region).

Material and methods

This review uses the PRISMA statement and checklist. The source for reviewed article was performed in PubMed that were published between December 2019 to September 2020 with the latest 1 year of publication. Study titles were first screened, then reviewed by title and abstract and then the last review, we tested full text and applied eligibility criteria.

Results

We found a total of 9 retrieved articles from the electronic database. Among these 9 articles, 5 of them are case report, 1 case series, 1 prospective multi-center cohort study, 1 retrospective multi-center study, and 1 retrospective observational study. All articles reported confirmed COVID-19, confirmation by positive swab test using the real-time RT-PCR method, with neurologic manifestations, disorder, or syndrome on presentation or found during hospital stay. In case of neurologic disorder or syndrome, the studies reported encephalitis and ADEM, acute cerebrovascular disease, acute symptomatic seizure, and Guillain-Barré syndrome with acute cerebrovascular disease as the most common neurologic disorder associated with COVID-19 infection, followed by encephalitis.

Conclusion

COVID-19 also affects the brain, which may result in a global or focal neurologic manifestation. Healthcare provider treating patient with COVID-19 infection should also be aware of neurologic manifestation associated with COVID-19 infection to improve patient’s outcome.

Guillain-Barre syndrome, encephalopathy, and many more. This review will briefly review neurologic manifestation in COVID-19 infection in the Asian region (South East Asia and the Western Pacific Region. A total of 9 retrieved articles from the electronic database reported confirmed COVID-19, confirmation by RT-PCR method, with neurologic manifestation, disorder, or syndrome on presentation or found during hospital stay. Healthcare provider treating patient with COVID-19 infection should also be aware of neurologic manifestation associated with COVID-19 infection to improve patient’s outcome.
Effect of treatment applied in sepsis on intensive care unit and hospital stay: how effective are albumin/steroid/vasopressor agents?
Authors: Kayaalti Selda , Kayaalti Ömer
Published: February 2021

Background

The incidence and prevalence of sepsis have increased in recent years and it is the most common cause of intensive care admission. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of albumin, steroid, and vasopressor agents and other possible factors on the duration of intensive care unit and hospital stay in sepsis patients. Open access data set obtained from Tohoku Sepsis Registry database was used. Four hundred sixty-two patients admitted to intensive care unit with the diagnosis of sepsis were divided into four groups according to their intensive care unit (≤ 5 or > 5 days) and hospital length of stay (≤ 24 or > 24 days). Demographic data, vital signs, laboratory values, mechanical ventilation requirement, and treatment protocols such as albumin, steroid, and vasopressor agent use were used in the evaluation of the groups.

Results

The use of albumin (odds ratio [OR] = 3.76 [95% confidence interval (CI), 2.16–6.56]; p < 0.001), steroids (OR = 2.85 [95% CI, 1.67–4.86]; p < 0.001), and vasopressor agents (OR = 3.56 [95% CI, 2.42–5.24]; p < 0.001) were associated with an increasing risk of prolonged intensive care unit length of stay. Also, it was found that the use of albumin (OR = 3.43 [95% CI, 2.00–5.89]; p < 0.001), steroids (OR = 2.81 [95% CI, 1.66–4.78]; p < 0.001), and vasopressor agents (OR = 4.47 [95% CI, 3.02–6.62]; p < 0.001) were associated with an increasing risk of prolonged hospital length of stay. In addition, prognostic scoring systems, body temperature, mean arterial pressure, pH, PaO2/FiO2 ratio, and mechanical ventilation requirement in the first 24 h were also found to be associated with length of stay in intensive care unit and hospital. There was a significant relationship between platelet count, creatinine, Na, lactic acid, and time between diagnosis of sepsis and source control and intensive care unit length of stay, and between hematocrit and C-reactive protein and hospital length of stay.

Conclusions

The use of albumin, steroid, and vasopressor agents has been found to be significantly correlated with both intensive care unit and hospital length of stay. Further studies are needed to determine in what order or at what dosage these agents will be administered in sepsis treatment.
Application of amphoteric polymers in the process of leather post-tanning
Authors: Wang Xuechuan , Sun Siwei , Zhu Xing , Guo Peiying , Liu Xinhua , Liu Chunlin , Lei Meng
Published: February 2021

With the characteristics of controllable charge and environmental friendliness, amphoteric polymers can be used in post-tanning process to solve the problems that arise during leather making and are caused by the low absorption rate of single-charge chemicals, incompatibility with new tanning methods, and complex operation process. In this review, the structure, performance, and preparation of amphoteric polymers are reported. Then, the charge change of collagen during different tanning and pH treatments is introduced. Finally, the application and development of amphoteric polymers during the post-tanning process of leather making are discussed. This review has certain guiding significance to the preparation and application of amphoteric polymers for tanning system.

Graphical abstract
Excerpts from Zamanın Kelimeleri: Yeni Türkiye’nin Siyasî Dili (Words of Our Times: The Political Language of New Turkey)
Authors: Bora Tanıl
Published: February 2021

These essays grapple with the widely “expended” words that characterize the era of the nationalist-conservative-populist Justice and Development Party (Adalet ve Kalkınma Partisi, or AKP) in Turkey, which has been in power since 2002. Some of these words rest on a specified backdrop of nationalist and Islamist jargon. Others are words that have accrued meaning in tandem with the zeitgeist. Still others seem to have no particular political meaning, appearing rather “neutral,” though in fact they serve as reflections of a hegemonic zeitgeist. While the pointed political use of these words may be identified as “manipulative” and elicit reactions accordingly, the majority of the words are nonetheless perceived as entirely “neutral.” In any event, they are words that seize upon and configure public language, imposing a broad set of prejudices upon popular imaginaries. They function in society by reproducing the nationalist-conservative and authoritarianpopulist worldview as well as the ethos and pathos that sustain that worldview. Collectively, these essays clarify the historical and political background of the words at hand, examining their ideological function as well as their etymological and stylistic inspirations. By extension, these essays problematize these words, which, due to their standardizing effect, ensnare political communication and, moreover, powerfully corrode already weak sensitivities to the power of language.
Intelligent information systems and artificial intelligence methods
Authors: Andreychikov Aleksandr , Andreychikova Ol'ga
Published: February 2021

The textbook discusses the methods of artificial intelligence and their application to solve problems from various subject areas. Methods of acquisition, representation and processing of knowledge in intelligent systems, as well as technologies for designing and implementing intelligent systems, are described. Special attention is paid to the application of intelligent systems for the selection of collective solutions, the design of complex systems( objects), the analysis and forecasting of the enterprise. Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation. For students enrolled in groups of training master's degree program "Management in technical systems", "Computer and information science", "computer science", "engineering and technology land transport", "engineering and construction technology", "Photonics, instrumentation, optical and biotechnical systems and technology", "aerospace engineering", "engineering and technologies of shipbuilding and water transport", and also in the areas of "automation of technological processes and productions", "mechatronics and robotics".
Theoretical and methodological aspects of the use of information technologies in education
Authors: Koldaev Viktor
Published: February 2021

The article summarizes the experience of implementing a personality-oriented approach to the formation of a structural and content model of the educational process at the university. The results of the introduction of information technologies and their services in the field of education are presented, as well as the impact of computerization on the quality of education in the framework of the modern educational paradigm. The priority directions of innovative educational strategies of the university are identified and a graph model of the individual educational route of the student is proposed in order to predict the state of the educational system and adopt optimal learning strategies. Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation. For graduate students and university teachers in the design of variable models of training in any areas of training and specialties. It will be useful for advanced training on the problems of innovative educational strategies.
Demographics
Authors: Yulinov Valeriy , Patrusheva Natal'ya , Kochurov Boris
Published: February 2021

The textbook covers the main sections of the course "Demography": the object, subject and methods of demography, connection with other sciences; sources of data on the population; the main types and factors of population movement, modes of natural reproduction of the population; migration and reproduction of the population; demographic, ethnic and religious structure of the population; demographic policy of the state. Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation. For students of higher educational institutions studying under the bachelor's degree programs 38.03.04 and master's degree programs 38.04.04 in the direction of "State and Municipal Management", as well as for all those interested in demographic problems and their solution.
Visualization in scientific research
Authors: Korneev Viktor , Gagarina Larisa , Korneeva Mariya
Published: February 2021

The textbook describes the methods of graphical representation of the results of the calculation of physical and engineering problems, represented by specialized programs and operating system tools. The graphic capabilities of the MATLAB package, which, along with powerful calculation tools, has excellent computer graphics, are studied in detail. A number of visualization tasks are solved by computer graphics programming methods in C++. The GDI GUI functions are used from the set of system API functions that the Windows operating system provides to the user. All examples in C++ are tested in the Visual Studio 2008 project development environment. The issues of interaction between the MATLAB package and programs written in C++ in the Visual Studio environment are considered. Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation. For students studying in the field of training "Software Engineering".
State cadastres and cadastral valuation of land
Authors: Slezko Leonid
Published: February 2021

The textbook covers a range of issues that reflect the evolution of the development of relations related to the management of the state real estate cadastre. The goals and objectives of the creation and maintenance of the state real estate cadastre are reflected. The essence and content of the cadastral valuation of land plots are revealed. Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of secondary vocational education of the latest generation. For students in educational organizations of secondary vocational education and (or) in professional training programs in the specialty 21.02.05 "Land and property relations" and in educational organizations of additional professional education, as well as for students in economic areas and specialties.
Probability theory and mathematical statistics
Authors: Paliy Irina
Published: February 2021

The tutorial is an introductory course in probability theory and mathematical statistics. Elements of combinatorics, basic concepts and theorems of probability theory, discrete random variables, continuous random variables, some limit theorems, one-dimensional and two-dimensional samples, point and interval estimation of parameters of the general population, testing of statistical hypotheses, elements of queuing theory are considered. The presentation of the theoretical material is accompanied by a large number of detailed examples of problem solving. For students of technical and economic fields of study and specialties, studying under the bachelor's and specialty programs.
Mathematics in primary school: teaching methods
Authors: Beloshistaya Anna
Published: February 2021

The textbook contains methodological information and recommendations for the course of mathematics, which is studied in elementary school. All types of tasks, computational techniques and computational actions, typical and non-typical tasks, and techniques for working with them are given. The content of the textbook is focused on the mandatory minimum of primary education, current programs and current textbooks. The article presents universal methodological information related to any of the modern systems of teaching mathematics in primary classes. Meets the requirements of the federal state standards of secondary vocational education of the latest generation. It is addressed to students of institutions of secondary vocational education in the specialty "Teaching in primary classes".
Diagnostics of modern cars
Authors: Kuz'min Nikolay , Kustikov Aleksandr
Published: February 2021

The textbook contains the main provisions of the theory of automobile diagnostics, methods and characteristic technological processes for diagnosing automobile engines, structural elements of the transmission, chassis, bodywork, and active safety systems. The theoretical material is supported by the description of practical technologies for conducting diagnostics of modern car systems. Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation. Recommended for undergraduates and bachelors of all forms of education in the areas of training 23.04.03 and 23.03.03 "Operation of transport and technological machines and complexes".
Family pedagogy and home education
Authors: Sergeeva V. , Nikitina E. , Nedveckaya M. , Vinogradova N. , Shashenkova E. , Popov Yu.
Published: February 2021

The textbook reveals the normative and legislative acts of family regulation and the legal foundations of family education, describes the family at different stages of its formation, the history and traditions of the family in different faiths. The article presents the characteristics of family formation and marital relations. The basics of raising children in different types of families are formulated and methods of improving the pedagogical culture of parents are proposed. For students of secondary vocational education institutions. It can be useful for bachelors, undergraduates, postgraduates and students of advanced training courses and retraining of teaching staff.
Leadership
Authors: Bagdasaryan Vardan
Published: February 2021

The study of the course "Leadership" is associated with an increasing demand for the formation and disclosure of human leadership potentials. The presented textbook allows you to carry out this work in a targeted way. It summarizes and systematizes the world experience in the development of the theory and practice of leadership, discusses the classification of types of leaders, issues of practical use in leadership scenarios of personal qualities of a person, and offers a methodology for developing team strategies and team building. The distinctive features of the proposed program are its adaptability to the socio-cultural context of Russian society and its strong connection with the task of training the future generation of leaders in the interests of the Russian state. Each of the sections of the textbook is accompanied by practical tasks, the solution of which develops the skills of self-knowledge of a person in the perspective of developing leadership potentials and understanding the variability of leadership strategies. It is focused primarily on the preparation of bachelors studying in pedagogical areas of training, but it can also serve as a basic source for training in the course "Leadership" within the framework of a bachelor's degree in the humanities and the direction of social sciences.
Fundamentals of engineering Geology
Authors: Platov Nikolay
Published: February 2021

The theoretical and practical foundations of engineering geology, the geological structure and origin of the Earth are described, the minerals of rocks and the rocks themselves of igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic origin are considered. Considerable attention is paid to the geomorphological, geodynamic, and hydrogeological conditions of the construction site with the allocation of three types of underground water: upper water, ground water, and inter-reservoir. The dynamics of the development of various forms of relief caused by endogenous and exogenous processes is given. The zonal elements of engineering and geological conditions of any construction site are given. Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of secondary vocational education of the latest generation. For students of secondary vocational education institutions studying engineering geology.
Modern programming technologies. Language of 1C 8.3
Authors: Dadyan Eduard
Published: February 2021

The tutorial covers the issues of building the basics of the 1C 8.3 programming language. It is intended for both beginners and advanced users. The presentation of the material is divided into two sections. The first section provides the basics of the 1C 8.3 programming language for beginners. In the second section, the use of the 1C 8.3 language is given for advanced users — in a reference form, using specific examples. Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation. For students of higher educational institutions studying in all areas of training and specialties, as well as for graduate students and students of the IPK.
Culture and creative industry: the control of flow processes
Authors: Mal'shina Nataliya , Garnov Andrey
Published: February 2021

The cultural industry should become attractive for capital investment through the development of project activities, organizational and economic support mechanisms in the form of integrated structures, as well as through the development of mechanisms for its financing: multi-channel cultural financing systems and public-private partnerships that would create prerequisites for the emergence and implementation of new ideas and projects in the field of culture, contributing to its formation as a full-fledged source of state income. As a result of the implementation of this project, original new fundamental theoretical positions and empirical data in the field of the cultural and creative industries were obtained. The research focuses on the analysis of the fundamental foundations of the functioning of the cultural and creative industries, solves the scientific problems of evaluating its effectiveness and justifying the directions of support and financing, develops strategies and mechanisms for the development of the Russian cultural industry in accordance with the specifics and needs of regional economies. For a wide range of readers interested in the development of the cultural industry.
Pedagogy
Authors: Turbovskoy Yaokv
Published: February 2021

In the monograph, in accordance with the program, it is revealed how and thanks to what a graduate of a pedagogical college can become a real professional teacher. At the same time, it highlights not only the necessary theoretical foundations that ensure high professional efficiency of pedagogical activity, but also the necessary methods, the possession of which will ensure the possibility of achieving educational results and-no less important-the possibility of creative self-realization. For students of pedagogical specialties, as well as all those interested in pedagogy.
Man and his enlightenment: ideas, projects, practice
Authors: Papayani Fedor , Chernyy Evgeniy , Chukin Sergey , Irhin Aleksandr , Pashkovskiy Petr , Gabrielyan Arus , Shorkin Aleksey , Skorobogatova Mariya , Kogay Evgeniya , Ishin Andrey , Mironov Andrey , Chigrin Viktor , Frolova Svetlana , Volodin Andrey , Zhupnik Olesya , Yurchenko Sergey
Published: February 2021

After the collapse of the USSR, Russia is in a state of crisis. The population of the country remembers its past, but does not know what its future will be. The old scale of values is no longer working, and the new one has not yet developed. The crisis affected all the main sectors of the country's life, including education. The continuity of generations was under threat. The situation is aggravated by the external expansion of the initiators of the next redistribution of the world. As a" Trojan horse", they impose values that are alien to us, aimed at destroying the cultural code of Russia, at breaking the connection between generations. Youth, deprived of social immunity, quite easily enters the path of corruption and perversion, destroying itself and the world around it. The authors of the stated monograph, in search of a worthy answer to the historical challenge of Russia, turn to those who are concerned about the fate of the Fatherland and on whom the future of our Motherland depends.
Monitoring the sustainability of enterprises with a long production cycle
Authors: Bobryshev Artur , Vitushkina Marina , Tumin Valeriy
Published: February 2021

The monograph examines the practice of monitoring the sustainability of enterprises that are characterized by a high duration of the production (technological) cycle of manufacturing products. Such enterprises form such industries as ship and aircraft construction, heavy engineering, and radio electronics. Based on the identification of the features of economic behavior associated with the duration of the production cycle, the authors prove that monitoring and evaluation of the sustainability of such enterprises should be carried out using special methods and algorithms based on the use of the concept of business modeling. The monograph is based on the materials of shipbuilding as the most typical industry, which is formed by enterprises with a long production cycle. It can be useful for specialists in the evaluation of companies, accounting employees, managers of organizations, employees of scientific and consulting firms, students of business schools, teachers, graduate students and university students studying in the areas of training "Management" and "Economics", as well as in engineering and technology areas, and all students of the disciplines of economic, organizational and management cycles.
Is there a role for casein phosphopeptide–amorphous calcium phosphate (cpp-acp) in paediatric dentistry?
Authors: Warner Claire , Rogers Helen J
Published: February 2021

In the age of minimally invasive dentistry, products with the ability to prevent and reverse common dental diseases are becoming increasingly popular. Casein phosphopeptide–amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP–ACP) contains the compounds casein, phosphate and calcium, which all have the ability to remineralize enamel. Dental caries, visible demineralization following removal of orthodontic appliances, non-carious tooth surface loss and dentine hypersensitivity due to structural anomalies are frequently seen in children and young people. The evidence for CPP–ACP and fluoride-containing CPP–ACP is positive for managing dental caries and non-carious tooth surface loss, specifically erosion, but is less clear in the management of visible demineralization following orthodontic appliance removal and dentine hypersensitivity owing to structural anomalies. When recommending CPP–ACP-containing products, dental practitioners should be aware of medical and social contra-indications that preclude its use.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: CPP–ACP may have a role in the management of common paediatric dental conditions.
Traumatic ulcers with a hidden cause: A case report
Authors: Chana Pavneet , Ion Daniela
Published: February 2021

Oral ulceration is a common condition that can affect the oral mucosa, and patients often present in both primary and secondary care. There are a number of causes of oral ulceration, ranging from trauma to malignancy. The cause of the oral ulceration can be difficult to establish, especially when the history and investigations do not support an obvious cause. We report a case of a 19-year-old male who presented with a 2-month history of worsening oral ulceration. Despite further questioning and investigations, the cause of the oral ulceration remained elusive.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: To understand the clinical presentation and causes of oral ulceration.
Comparative dental analysis: should dentists release dental records?
Authors: Sallis Claire , Mânica Scheila
Published: February 2021

Comparative dental analysis is the main role of a UK forensic dentist. It is undertaken to determine whether postmortem findings are in agreement with the provided antemortem data for an individual, in order to achieve a positive identification. It requires dentists to maintain accurate dental records and, when a confirmatory identification is required, to breach their confidentiality obligations to their patients. Several different dental records can prove helpful during the process, which are outlined in a novel checklist designed to guide both practitioners and law enforcement officers. It is supported by the UK Missing Persons Unit and the British Association of Forensic Odontology (BAFO) and is available to download in a PDF format from dentalidrecordchecklist.com.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: All dental practitioners should be aware of forensic dentistry as a specialism and how they may be required to help during a human identification. Understanding the principles of comparative dental analysis should be attained, thus recognizing the importance of releasing dental records, preventing delays and uncertainty around breaching confidentiality obligations.
Fracture of the maxillary tuberosity: Troubleshooting in general dental practice and a proposed fracture classification
Authors: Wright Fiona , Ritchie Colin , Malden Nicholas J , Besi Eleni
Published: February 2021

A tuberosity fracture can prevent or delay the timely delivery of the most appropriate treatment option for a maxillary molar. This is a relatively common complication, but should not prevent treatment in general practice provided the clinician has adequately risk assessed, planned and obtained informed consent. Should a fracture occur, its initial management in general practice is encouraged. This article aims to improve patient outcomes by providing a troubleshooting guide. A fracture classification is suggested to aid assessment, recognition and management. Should referral to secondary care be required, a classification system will provide a basis for discussion and clarity on further management.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: This article provides a tuberosity fracture classification to guide clinicians in the management of patients who have sustained such a fracture.
Towards in-vivo label-free detection of brain tumor margins with epi-illumination tomographic quantitative phase imaging
Authors: Costa Paloma Casteleiro , Guang Zhe , Ledwig Patrick , Zhang Zhaobin , Neill Stewart , Olson Jeffrey J. , Robles Francisco E.
Published: February 2021

Brain tumor surgery involves a delicate balance between maximizing the extent of tumor resection while minimizing damage to healthy brain tissue that is vital for neurological function. However, differentiating between tumor, particularly infiltrative disease, and healthy brain in-vivo remains a significant clinical challenge. Here we demonstrate that quantitative oblique back illumination microscopy (qOBM)—a novel label-free optical imaging technique that achieves tomographic quantitative phase imaging in thick scattering samples—clearly differentiates between healthy brain tissue and tumor, including infiltrative disease. Data from a bulk and infiltrative brain tumor animal model show that qOBM enables quantitative phase imaging of thick fresh brain tissues with remarkable cellular and subcellular detail that closely resembles histopathology using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) stained fixed tissue sections, the gold standard for cancer detection. Quantitative biophysical features are also extracted from qOBM which yield robust surrogate biomarkers of disease that enable (1) automated tumor and margin detection with high sensitivity and specificity and (2) facile visualization of tumor regions. Finally, we develop a low-cost, flexible, fiber-based handheld qOBM device which brings this technology one step closer to in-vivo clinical use. This work has significant implications for guiding neurosurgery by paving the way for a tool that delivers real-time, label-free, in-vivo brain tumor margin detection.
Fourier transform and grating-based spectroscopy with a mid-infrared supercontinuum source for trace gas detection in fruit quality monitoring
Authors: Jahromi Khalil Eslami , Nematollahi Mohammadreza , Krebbers Roderik , Abbas Muhammad Ali , Khodabakhsh Amir , Harren Frans J. M.
Published: February 2021

We present a multi-species trace gas sensor based on a fast, compact home-built Fourier transform spectrometer (FTS) combined with a broadband mid-infrared supercontinuum (SC) source. The spectrometer covers the spectral bandwidth of the SC source (2 - 4 µm) and provides a best spectral resolution of 1 GHz in 6 seconds. It has a detection sensitivity of a few hundred of ppbv Hz-1/2 for different gas species. We study the performance of the developed spectrometer in terms of precision, linearity, long-term stability, and multi-species detection. We use the spectrometer for measuring fruit-produced volatiles under different atmospheric conditions and compare the performance with a previously developed scanning grating-based spectrometer.
Flower consumption, ambient temperature and rainfall modulate drinking behavior in a folivorous-frugivorous arboreal mammal
Authors: Chaves Óscar M. , Fortes Vanessa B. , Hass Gabriela P. , Azevedo Renata B. , Stoner Kathryn E. , Bicca-Marques Júlio César
Published: February 2021

Water is vital for the survival of any species because of its key role in most physiological processes. However, little is known about the non-food-related water sources exploited by arboreal mammals, the seasonality of their drinking behavior and its potential drivers, including diet composition, temperature, and rainfall. We investigated this subject in 14 wild groups of brown howler monkeys (Alouatta guariba clamitans) inhabiting small, medium, and large Atlantic Forest fragments in southern Brazil. We found a wide variation in the mean rate of drinking among groups (range = 0–16 records/day). Streams (44% of 1,258 records) and treeholes (26%) were the major types of water sources, followed by bromeliads in the canopy (16%), pools (11%), and rivers (3%). The type of source influenced whether howlers used a hand to access the water or not. Drinking tended to be evenly distributed throughout the year, except for a slightly lower number of records in the spring than in the other seasons, but it was unevenly distributed during the day. It increased in the afternoon in all groups, particularly during temperature peaks around 15:00 and 17:00. We found via generalized linear mixed modelling that the daily frequency of drinking was mainly influenced negatively by flower consumption and positively by weekly rainfall and ambient temperature, whereas fragment size and the consumption of fruit and leaves played negligible roles. Overall, we confirm the importance of preformed water in flowers to satisfy the howler’s water needs, whereas the influence of the climatic variables is compatible with the ‘thermoregulation/dehydration-avoiding hypothesis’. In sum, we found that irrespective of habitat characteristics, brown howlers seem to seek a positive water balance by complementing the water present in the diet with drinking water, even when it is associated with a high predation risk in terrestrial sources.
Are the classic false belief tasks cursed? Young children are just as likely as older children to pass a false belief task when they are not required to overcome the curse of knowledge
Authors: Ghrear Siba , Baimel Adam , Haddock Taeh , Birch Susan A. J.
Published: February 2021

The question of when children understand that others have minds that can represent or misrepresent reality (i.e., possess a ‘Theory of Mind’) is hotly debated. This understanding plays a fundamental role in social interaction (e.g., interpreting human behavior, communicating, empathizing). Most research on this topic has relied on false belief tasks such as the ‘Sally-Anne Task’, because researchers have argued that it is the strongest litmus test examining one’s understanding that the mind can misrepresent reality. Unfortunately, in addition to a variety of other cognitive demands this widely used measure also unnecessarily involves overcoming a bias that is especially pronounced in young children—the ‘curse of knowledge’ (the tendency to be biased by one’s knowledge when considering less-informed perspectives). Three- to 6-year-old’s (n = 230) false belief reasoning was examined across tasks that either did, or did not, require overcoming the curse of knowledge, revealing that when the curse of knowledge was removed three-year-olds were significantly better at inferring false beliefs, and as accurate as five- and six-year-olds. These findings reveal that the classic task is not specifically measuring false belief understanding. Instead, previously observed developmental changes in children’s performance could be attributed to the ability to overcome the curse of knowledge. Similarly, previously observed relationships between individual differences in false belief reasoning and a variety of social outcomes could instead be the result of individual differences in the ability to overcome the curse of knowledge, highlighting the need to re-evaluate how best to interpret large bodies of research on false belief reasoning and social-emotional functioning.
Fusion algorithm of visible and infrared image based on anisotropic diffusion and image enhancement (capitalize only the first word in a title (or heading), the first word in a subtitle (or subheading), and any proper nouns)
Authors: Huang Hui , Dong Linlu , Xue Zhishuang , Liu Xiaofang , Hua Caijian
Published: February 2021

Aiming at the situation that the existing visible and infrared images fusion algorithms only focus on highlighting infrared targets and neglect the performance of image details, and cannot take into account the characteristics of infrared and visible images, this paper proposes an image enhancement fusion algorithm combining Karhunen-Loeve transform and Laplacian pyramid fusion. The detail layer of the source image is obtained by anisotropic diffusion to get more abundant texture information. The infrared images adopt adaptive histogram partition and brightness correction enhancement algorithm to highlight thermal radiation targets. A novel power function enhancement algorithm that simulates illumination is proposed for visible images to improve the contrast of visible images and facilitate human observation. In order to improve the fusion quality of images, the source image and the enhanced images are transformed by Karhunen-Loeve to form new visible and infrared images. Laplacian pyramid fusion is performed on the new visible and infrared images, and superimposed with the detail layer images to obtain the fusion result. Experimental results show that the method in this paper is superior to several representative image fusion algorithms in subjective visual effects on public data sets. In terms of objective evaluation, the fusion result performed well on the 8 evaluation indicators, and its own quality was high.
INFEKTA—An agent-based model for transmission of infectious diseases: The COVID-19 case in Bogotá, Colombia
Authors: Gomez Jonatan , Prieto Jeisson , Leon Elizabeth , Rodríguez Arles
Published: February 2021

The transmission dynamics of the coronavirus—COVID-19—have challenged humankind at almost every level. Currently, research groups around the globe are trying to figure out such transmission dynamics under special conditions such as separation policies enforced by governments. Mathematical and computational models, like the compartmental model or the agent-based model, are being used for this purpose. This paper proposes an agent-based model, called INFEKTA, for simulating the transmission of infectious diseases, not only the COVID-19, under social distancing policies. INFEKTA combines the transmission dynamic of a specific disease, (according to parameters found in the literature) with demographic information (population density, age, and genre of individuals) of geopolitical regions of the real town or city under study. Agents (virtual persons) can move, according to its mobility routines and the enforced social distancing policy, on a complex network of accessible places defined over an Euclidean space representing the town or city. The transmission dynamics of the COVID-19 under different social distancing policies in Bogotá city, the capital of Colombia, is simulated using INFEKTA with one million virtual persons. A sensitivity analysis of the impact of social distancing policies indicates that it is possible to establish a ‘medium’ (i.e., close 40% of the places) social distancing policy to achieve a significant reduction in the disease transmission.
The challenge of learning a new language in adulthood: Evidence from a multi-methodological neuroscientific approach
Authors: Steber Sarah , Rossi Sonja
Published: February 2021

Being proficient in several foreign languages is an essential part of every-day life. In contrast to childhood, learning a new language can be highly challenging for adults. The present study aims at investigating neural mechanisms supporting very initial foreign language learning in adulthood. For this reason, subjects underwent an implicit semantic associative training in which they had to learn new pseudoword-picture pairings. Learning success was measured via a recognition experiment presenting learned versus new pseudoword-picture pairings. Neural correlates were assessed by an innovative multi-methodological approach simultaneously applying electroencephalography (EEG) and functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). Results indicate memory-related processes based on familiarity and mechanisms of cognitive control to be present during initial vocabulary learning. Findings underline the fascinating plasticity of the adult brain during foreign language learning, even after a short semantic training of only 18 minutes as well as the importance of comparing evidence from different neuroscientific methods and behavioral data.
Significant inefficiency in running community health systems: The case of health posts in Southwest Ethiopia
Authors: Yitbarek Kiddus , Abraham Gelila , Berhane Melkamu , Hurlburt Sarah , Mann Carlyn , Adamu Ayinengida , Tsega Gebeyehu , Woldie Mirkuzie
Published: February 2021

Background

Although much has been documented about the performance of the health extension program, there is a lack of information on how efficiently the program is running. Furthermore, the rising cost of health services and the absence of competition among publicly owned health facilities demands strong follow up of efficiency. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the technical efficiency of the health posts and determinants in Southwestern Ethiopia.

Methods and materials

We used data for one Ethiopian fiscal year (from July 2016 to June 2017) to estimate the technical efficiency of health posts. A total of 66 health posts were included in the analysis. We employed a two-stage data envelopment analysis to estimate technical efficiency. At the first stage, technical efficiency scores were calculated using data envelopment analysis program version 2.1. Predictors of technical efficiency were then identified at the second stage using Tobit regression, with STATA version 14.

Results

The findings revealed that 21.2% were technically efficient with a mean technical efficiency score of 0.6 (± 0.3), indicating that health posts could increase their service volume by 36% with no change made to the inputs they received. On the other hand, health posts had an average scale efficiency score of 0.8 (± 0.2) implying that the facilities have the potential to increase service volume by 16% with the existing resources. The regression model has indicated average waiting time for service has negatively affected technical efficiency.

Conclusion

More than three-quarters of health posts were found inefficient. The technical efficiency score of more than one-third of the health posts is even less than 50%. Community mobilization to enhance the uptake of health services at the health posts coupled with a possible reallocation of resources in less efficient health posts is a possible approach to improve the efficiency of the program.
Developmental pattern of grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) berry cuticular wax: Differentiation between epicuticular crystals and underlying wax
Authors: Arand Katja , Bieler Evi , Dürrenberger Markus , Kassemeyer Hanns-Heinz
Published: February 2021

The grapevine berry surface is covered by a cuticle consisting of cutin and various lipophilic wax compounds. The latter build the main barrier for transpirational water loss and protect the fruit against environmental factors e.g. pests, mechanical impacts or radiation. The integrety of the fruit surface is one important key factor for post-harvest quality and storage of fruits. Nonetheless, the developmental pattern of cuticular wax was so far only investigated for a very limited number of fruits. Therefore, we performed comparative investigations on the compositional and morphological nature of epicuticular wax crystals and underlying wax during fruit development inVitis vinifera. The main compound oleanolic acid belongs to the pentacyclic triterpenoids, which occur very early in the development in high amounts inside the cuticle. The amount increases until veraison and decreases further during ripening. In general, very-long chain aliphatic (VLCA) compounds are present in much smaller amounts and alcohols and aldehydes follow the same trend during development. In contrast, the amount of fatty acids constantly increases from fruit set to ripening while wax esters only occur in significant amount at veraison and increase further. Wax crystals at the fruit surface are solely composed of VLCAs and the morphology changes during development according to the compositional changes of the VLCA wax compounds. The remarkable compositional differences between epicuticular wax crystals and the underlying wax are important to understand in terms of studying grape-pest interactions or the influence of environmental factors, since only wax crystals directly face the environment.
Predictors of antiretroviral therapy initiation in eThekwini (Durban), South Africa: Findings from a prospective cohort study
Authors: Sy Karla Therese L. , Tariq Shema , Ramjee Gita , Blanchard Kelly , Leu Cheng-Shiun , Kelvin Elizabeth A. , Exner Theresa M. , Gandhi Anisha D. , Lince-Deroche Naomi , Mantell Joanne E. , O’Sullivan Lucia F. , Hoffman Susie
Published: February 2021

Despite expanded antiretroviral therapy (ART) eligibility in South Africa, many people diagnosed with HIV do not initiate ART promptly, yet understanding of the reasons is limited. Using data from an 8-month prospective cohort interview study of women and men newly-diagnosed with HIV in three public-sector primary care clinics in the eThekwini (Durban) region, South Africa, 2010–2014, we examined if theoretically-relevant social-structural, social-cognitive, psychosocial, and health status indicators were associated with time to ART initiation. Of 459 diagnosed, 350 returned to the clinic for their CD4+ test results (linkage); 153 (33.3%) were ART-eligible according to treatment criteria at the time; 115 (75.2% of those eligible) initiated ART (median = 12.86 weeks [95% CI: 9.75, 15.97] after linkage). In adjusted Cox proportional hazard models, internalized stigma was associated with a 65% decrease in the rate of ART initiation (Adjusted hazard ratio [AHR] 0.35, 95% CI: 0.19–0.80) during the period less than four weeks after linkage to care, but not four or more weeks after linkage to care, suggesting that stigma-reduction interventions implemented shortly after diagnosis may accelerate ART uptake. As reported by others, older age was associated with more rapid ART initiation (AHR for 1-year age increase: 1.04, 95% CI: 1.01–1.07) and higher CD4+ cell count (≥300μL vs. <150μL) was associated with a lower rate of initiation (AHR 0.38, 95% CI: 0.19–0.80). Several other factors that were assessed prior to diagnosis, including stronger belief in traditional medicine, higher endorsement of stigma toward people living with HIV, food insecurity, and higher psychological distress, were found to be in the expected direction of association with ART initiation, but confidence intervals were wide and could not exclude a null finding.
Spatio-temporal distribution and classification of utilization of urban bare lots in low-slope hilly regions
Authors: Cao Qi , Shi Manjiang
Published: February 2021

Urban bare lots are persistent phenomena in urban landscapes in the course of urbanization. In the present study, we examined the spatio-temporal distribution of urban bare lots in low-slope hilly areas, and to assess the major pathways by which they are generated and later re-transformed for exploitation. We extracted land use and land cover (LULC) change information and analyzed spatio-temporal distribution characteristics of urban bare lots using Landsat TM/OLI series remote sensing images. Subsequently, we proposed an index system for their evaluation and classification, and identified five types of urban bare lots. Urban bare lot quantity and distribution are closely correlated with human activity intensity. Stakeholders should consider the multiple effects of location, topography, landscape index, transportation, service facilities, and urban planning in urban bare lot classification activities for renovation and re-transformation.