bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IL-14α as a Putative Biomarker for Stratification of Dry Eye in Primary Sjögren’s Syndrome
Authors: Liang Yichen , Xian Zhenhua , Fu Dehua , Liu Shuang , Yao Yang , Jin Yuebo , Gao Chun , Shen Long , Shi Guixiu , He Jing
Published: May 2021

Background

Dry eye is often the first presenting manifestation of primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS). Because of the high prevalence of dry eye disease in normal population, ophthalmologists urgently need a non-invasive and reliable screening test to diagnose dry eye associated SS patients, other than ocular symptoms and signs. Currently, there is no single test available. The correlation of serum IL-14α with pSS has been found in pSS mouse model.

Purpose

To evaluate whether IL-14α can serve as a biomarker to stratify dry eye in primary Sjögren’s syndrome and its correlation to BAFF in a cohort of patients with non-SS dry eye (NSDE), pSS with dry eye disease, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and healthy controls (HC).

Methods

Retrospective study based on serum levels of IL-14α (defined by Western Blot) and BAFF (measured by ELISA) were evaluated among pSS with dry eye disease, NSDE, RA, and HC groups. Serum levels of SS related autoantibodies (Ro, La, SP1, PSP, and CA6) were also measured by ELISA.

Results

One hundred and eighty patients were included for the current study, patients were separated into four groups as defined by pSS (n=65), NSDE (n=20), RA (n=50) and HC (n=45). The level of serum IL-14α in pSS was significantly higher compared to NSDE, RA, and HC (p=0.0011, p=0.0052 and p<0.0001, respectively). The levels of serum BAFF in pSS was significantly higher than in NSDE and HC (p=0.0148 and p<0.0001, respectively, whereas the levels of serum BAFF in RA was only significantly higher than in HC (p=0.001), but the level of BAFF was no significant difference between pSS and RA. In pSS, there was a decrease in the serum levels of IL-14α associated with a longer duration of the disease. Also, there was a correlation between the serum levels of IL-14α and SS related autoantibodies such as anti-SSA/Ro and anti-SSB/La in pSS patients.

Conclusions

This is the first paper to report both IL-14α and BAFF could serve as a critical cytokine biomarker for the stratification of dry eye in primary Sjögren’s syndrome. This may help ophthalmologists to develop non-invasive metrics for the diagnosis of dry eye associated pSS.
Harbor Seals as Sentinels of Ice Dynamics in Tidewater Glacier Fjords
Authors: Womble Jamie N. , Williams Perry J. , McNabb Robert W. , Prakash Anupma , Gens Rudiger , Sedinger Benjamin S. , Acevedo Cheyenne R.
Published: May 2021

Tidewater glaciers calve icebergs into the marine environment which serve as pupping, molting, and resting habitat for some of the largest seasonal aggregations of harbor seals (Phoca vitulina richardii) in the world. Although they are naturally dynamic, advancing and retreating in response to local climatic and fjord conditions, most tidewater glaciers around the world are thinning and retreating. Climate change models predict continued loss of land-based ice with unknown impacts to organisms such as harbor seals that rely on glacier ice as habitat for critical life history events. To understand the impacts of changing ice availability on harbor seals, we quantified seasonal and annual changes in ice habitat in Johns Hopkins Inlet, a tidewater glacier fjord in Glacier Bay National Park in southeastern Alaska. We conducted systematic aerial photographic surveys (n = 55) of seals and ice during the pupping (June; n = 30) and molting (August; n = 25) periods from 2007 to 2014. Object-based image analysis was used to quantify the availability and spatial distribution of floating ice in the fjord. Multivariate spatial models were developed for jointly modeling stage-structured seal location data and ice habitat. Across all years, there was consistently more ice in the fjord during the pupping season in June than during the molting season in August, which was likely driven by seasonal variation in physical processes that influence the calving dynamics of tidewater glaciers. Non-pup harbor seals and ice were correlated during the pupping season, but this correlation was reduced during the molting season suggesting that harbor seals may respond to changes in habitat differently depending upon trade-offs associated with life history events, such as pupping and molting, and energetic costs and constraints associated with the events.
Cayman Islands Sea Turtle Nesting Population Increases Over 22 Years of Monitoring
Authors: Blumenthal Janice M. , Hardwick Jane L. , Austin Timothy J. , Broderick Annette C. , Chin Paul , Collyer Lucy , Ebanks-Petrie Gina , Grant Leah , Lamb Lorri D. , Olynik Jeremy , Omeyer Lucy C. M. , Prat-Varela Alejandro , Godley Brendan J.
Published: May 2021

Given differing trajectories of sea turtle populations worldwide, there is a need to assess and report long-term population trends and determine which conservation strategies are effective. In this study, we report on sea turtle nest monitoring in the Cayman Islands over a 22-year period. We found that green (Chelonia mydas) and loggerhead (Caretta caretta) nest numbers increased significantly across the three islands since monitoring began in 1998, but that hawksbill nest numbers remained low with a maximum of 13 nests recorded in a season. Comparing the first 5 years of nest numbers to the most recent 5 years, the greatest percentage increase in green turtle nests was in Grand Cayman from 82 to 1,005 nests (1,126%), whereas the greatest percentage increase for loggerhead turtle nests was in Little Cayman from 10 to 290 nests (3,800%). A captive breeding operation contributed to the increase in the Grand Cayman green turtle population, however, loggerhead turtles were never captive-bred, and these populations began to increase after a legal traditional turtle fishery became inactive in 2008. Although both species have shown significant signs of recovery, populations remain at a fragment of their historical level and are vulnerable to threats. Illegal harvesting occurs to this day, with multiple females taken from nesting beaches each year. For nests and hatchlings, threats include artificial lighting on nesting beaches, causing hatchlings to misorient away from the sea, and inundation of nests by seawater reducing hatch success. The impacts of lighting were found to increase over the monitoring period. Spatial data on nest distribution was used to identify critical nesting habitat for green and loggerhead turtles and is used by the Cayman Islands Department of Environment to facilitate remediation of threats related to beachside development and for targeted future management efforts.
Mortality and Life-Sustaining Therapy Decisions in Patients With Cancer and Acute Respiratory Failure Due to COVID-19 or Other Causes: An Observational Study
Authors: Testa Renato Scarsi , Praça Ana Paula Agnolon , Nassar Junior Antonio Paulo , Santana Pauliane Vieira , Okamoto Valdelis Novis , Costa Ramon Teixeira , Caruso Pedro
Published: May 2021

It is unknown if patients with cancer and acute respiratory failure due to COVID-19 have different clinical or cancer-related characteristics, decisions to forgo life-sustaining therapies (LST), and mortality compared to patients with cancer and acute respiratory failure due to other causes. In a cohort study, we tested the hypothesis that COVID-19 was associated with increased in-hospital mortality and decreased decisions to forgo LST in patients with cancer and acute respiratory failure. We employed two multivariate logistic regression models. Propensity score matching was employed as sensitivity analysis. We compared 382 patients without COVID-19 with 65 with COVID-19. Patients with COVID-19 had better performance status, less metastatic tumors, and progressive cancer. In-hospital mortality of patients with COVID-19 was lower compared with patients without COVID-19 (46.2 vs. 74.6%; p < 0.01). However, the cause of acute respiratory failure (COVID-19 or other causes) was not associated with increased in-hospital mortality [adjusted odds ratio (OR) 1.27 (0.55–2.93; 95% confidence interval, CI)] in the adjusted model. The percentage of patients with a decision to forgo LST was lower in patients with COVID-19 (15.4 vs. 36.1%; p = 0.01). However, COVID-19 was not associated with decisions to forgo LST [adjusted OR 1.21 (0.44–3.28; 95% CI)] in the adjusted model. The sensitivity analysis confirmed the primary analysis. In conclusion, COVID-19 was not associated with increased in-hospital mortality or decreased decisions to forgo LST in patients with cancer and acute respiratory failure. These patients had better performance status, less progressive cancer, less metastatic tumors, and less organ dysfunctions upon intensive care unit (ICU) admission than patients with acute respiratory failure due to other causes.
Identification of Potential Binders of Mtb Universal Stress Protein (Rv1636) Through an in silico Approach and Insights Into Compound Selection for Experimental Validation
Authors: Chakraborti Sohini , Chakraborty Moubani , Bose Avipsa , Srinivasan Narayanaswamy , Visweswariah Sandhya S.
Published: May 2021

Millions of deaths caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) are reported worldwide every year. Treatment of tuberculosis (TB) involves the use of multiple antibiotics over a prolonged period. However, the emergence of resistance leading to multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) and extensively drug-resistant TB (XDR-TB) is the most challenging aspect of TB treatment. Therefore, there is a constant need to search for novel therapeutic strategies that could tackle the growing problem of drug resistance. One such strategy could be perturbing the functions of novel targets in Mtb, such as universal stress protein (USP, Rv1636), which binds to cAMP with a higher affinity than ATP. Orthologs of these proteins are conserved in all mycobacteria and act as “sink” for cAMP, facilitating the availability of this second messenger for signaling when required. Here, we have used the cAMP-bound crystal structure of USP from Mycobacterium smegmatis, a closely related homolog of Mtb, to conduct a structure-guided hunt for potential binders of Rv1636, primarily employing molecular docking approach. A library of 1.9 million compounds was subjected to virtual screening to obtain an initial set of ~2,000 hits. An integrative strategy that uses the available experimental data and consensus indications from other computational analyses has been employed to prioritize 22 potential binders of Rv1636 for experimental validations. Binding affinities of a few compounds among the 22 prioritized compounds were tested through microscale thermophoresis assays, and two compounds of natural origin showed promising binding affinities with Rv1636. We believe that this study provides an important initial guidance to medicinal chemists and biochemists to synthesize and test an enriched set of compounds that have the potential to inhibit Mtb USP (Rv1636), thereby aiding the development of novel antitubercular lead candidates.
Functional Sites of Ribosome Modulation Factor (RMF) Involved in the Formation of 100S Ribosome
Authors: Yoshida Hideji , Nakayama Hideki , Maki Yasushi , Ueta Masami , Wada Chieko , Wada Akira
Published: May 2021

One of the important cellular events in all organisms is protein synthesis, which is catalyzed by ribosomes. The ribosomal activity is dependent on the environmental situation of the cell. Bacteria form 100S ribosomes, lacking translational activity, to survive under stress conditions such as nutrient starvation. The 100S ribosome is a dimer of two 70S ribosomes bridged through the 30S subunits. In some pathogens of gammaproteobacteria, such as Escherichia coli, Yersinia pestis, and Vibrio cholerae, the key factor for ribosomal dimerization is the small protein, ribosome modulation factor (RMF). When ribosomal dimerization by RMF is impaired, long-term bacterial survival is abolished. This shows that the interconversion system between active 70S ribosomes and inactive 100S ribosomes is an important survival strategy for bacteria. According to the results of several structural analyses, RMF does not directly connect two ribosomes, but binds to them and changes the conformation of their 30S subunits, thus promoting ribosomal dimerization. In this study, conserved RMF amino acids among 50 bacteria were selectively altered by mutagenesis to identify the residues involved in ribosome binding and dimerization. The activities of mutant RMF for ribosome binding and ribosome dimerization were measured using the sucrose density gradient centrifugation (SDGC) and western blotting methods. As a result, some essential amino acids of RMF for the ribosomal binding and dimerization were elucidated. Since the induction of RMF expression inhibits bacterial growth, the data on this protein could serve as information for the development of antibiotic or bacteriostatic agents.
Efficacy and Safety of Radiofrequency Ablation for Breast Cancer Smaller Than 2 cm: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Xia Lin-Yu , Hu Qing-Lin , Xu Wei-Yun
Published: May 2021

Background

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of breast cancer smaller than 2 cm.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted in the PubMed and EMBASE databases to identify published studies investigating the efficacy and safety of RFA for breast cancer smaller than 2 cm. The main outcomes were technical success rate of the ablation, complete ablation rate, complications and local recurrence. Secondary considerations were mode of anesthesia, pain tolerance, mean ablation time and surgical excision after ablation.

Results

Seventeen studies involving 399 patients and 401 lesions met the inclusion criteria. Nearly 99%(95%CI=0.98-1.00) of lesions achieved good technical success rate.Notably, 83.88% of the patients received RFA under general anesthesia (333/397) whereas 15.87% received RFA under local anesthesia (63/397). Of the 63, 98.41% tolerated the pain associated with the procedure. Majority of patients (65.74%, 261/397) underwent surgical excision of the tumor after ablation whereas in a few patients (34.26%, 136/397), the tumor tissue was retained in the breast after ablation. Complete ablation was achieved in 96% of patients for a mean time of 15.8 minutes (95%CI=0.93-0.99). Overall, only 2% (95%CI=0.01-0.04) of the individuals developed complications. Skin burns (2.02%, 8/397) were the most common complications. There was no local recurrence after a median follow-up of 27.29 months, whether or not they underwent surgical resection following RFA.

Conclusion

The results show that RFA for breast cancer smaller than 2 cm is safe and effective. However, prospective studies are needed to validate this conclusion.
Analysis of Pharmacokinetics in the Cochlea of the Inner Ear
Authors: Sawamura Seishiro , Ogata Genki , Asai Kai , Razvina Olga , Ota Takeru , Zhang Qi , Madhurantakam Sasya , Akiyama Koei , Ino Daisuke , Kanzaki Sho , Saiki Takuro , Matsumoto Yoshifumi , Moriyama Masato , Saijo Yasuo , Horii Arata , Einaga Yasuaki , Hibino Hiroshi
Published: May 2021

Hearing loss affects >5% of the global population and therefore, has a great social and clinical impact. Sensorineural hearing loss, which can be caused by different factors, such as acoustic trauma, aging, and administration of certain classes of drugs, stems primarily from a dysfunction of the cochlea in the inner ear. Few therapeutic strategies against sensorineural hearing loss are available. To develop effective treatments for this disease, it is crucial to precisely determine the behavior of ototoxic and therapeutic agents in the microenvironment of the cochlea in live animals. Since the 1980s, a number of studies have addressed this issue by different methodologies. However, there is much less information on pharmacokinetics in the cochlea than that in other organs; the delay in ontological pharmacology is likely due to technical difficulties with accessing the cochlea, a tiny organ that is encased with a bony wall and has a fine and complicated internal structure. In this review, we not only summarize the observations and insights obtained in classic and recent studies on pharmacokinetics in the cochlea but also describe relevant analytical techniques, with their strengths, limitations, and prospects.
Effects of Acute Prolonged Sitting and Interrupting Prolonged Sitting on Heart Rate Variability and Heart Rate in Adults: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Bates Lauren C. , Alansare Abdullah , Gibbs Bethany Barone , Hanson Erik D. , Stoner Lee
Published: May 2021

Prolonged sitting increases cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk, however the physiological mechanisms contributing to CVD from acute sitting exposure are not well-understood. Therefore, this study investigated the heart rate (HR) and variability (HRV) responses to prolonged sitting and after interrupting prolonged sitting (e.g., walking). Electronic databases were searched (inception-August 2020) for studies which exposed adults to prolonged (≥1 h) sitting with and/or without interruptions. Twenty-one articles (27 trials, n = 537) met inclusion criteria. Prolonged sitting non-significantly increased HR (weighted mean difference (WMD) = 0 bpm, 95% CI: −2, 3) and HRV (standardized mean difference (SMD) = 0.12, 95% CI: −0.08, 0.33) compared to pre-sitting baseline. Interrupting prolonged sitting yielded a non-significant small increase in HR (WMD = 4 bpm, 95% CI: 0, 7) compared to pre-sitting baseline. Sub-group analyses investigating interrupting prolonged sitting revealed small-to-moderate increases in HR in healthy populations (WMD = 6 bpm, 95% CI: 1, 10) and following walking interruptions (WMD = 7 bpm, 95% CI: 3, 11). In conclusion, prolonged sitting does not significantly affect HR or HRV. However, interrupting prolonged sitting yielded a small non-significant increase in HR, potentially indicative of increased metabolic demand. Further research is needed to investigate poor CVD outcomes via autonomic disruption from prolonged sitting.
Cerebrospinal Fluid Drop Metastases of Canine Glioma: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Classification
Authors: Bentley R. Timothy , Yanke Amy B. , Miller Margaret A. , Heng Hock Gan , Cohen-Gadol Aaron , Rossmeisl John H.
Published: May 2021

Dissemination of glioma in humans can occur as leptomeningeal nodules, diffuse leptomeningeal lesions, or ependymal lesions. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) drop metastasis of glioma is not well-recognized in dogs. Ten dogs with at least two anatomically distinct and histologically confirmed foci of glioma were included in this study. The 10 dogs underwent 28 magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations, with distant CSF drop metastasis revealed in 13 MRIs. The CSF drop metastases appeared as leptomeningeal nodules in four dogs, diffuse leptomeningeal lesions in six dogs, and ependymal lesions in seven dogs; six dogs had a combination of lesion types. Primary tumors were generally T2-heterogeneous and contrast-enhancing. Many metastases were T2-homogeneous and non-enhancing. Diffuse leptomeningeal lesions were seen as widespread extra-axial contrast-enhancement, again very dissimilar to the intra-axial primary mass. Primary masses were rostrotentorial, whereas metastases generally occurred in the direction of CSF flow, in ventricles, CSF cisterns, and the central canal or leptomeninges of the cervical or thoracolumbar spinal cord. Seven of the dogs had received therapy limited to the primary mass, such as surgery or stereotactic radiation, then developed metastasis in the following months. CSF drop metastasis of glioma may take a very different appearance on MRI to the primary mass, including periventricular lesions that are more homogeneous and less contrast-enhancing, rostral horn signal changes, or leptomeningeal enhancement ventral to the brainstem or encircling the spinal cord.
Consumo, Violência e a constituição de identidades na modernidade tardia
Authors: Tondato Marcia Perencin
Published: May 2021

O objetivo é discutir a constituição de identidades, do ponto de vista da cultura do consumo, pensada no contexto da sociedade midiatizada em que a violência é matéria-prima essencial tanto para os conteúdos jornalísticos como nas relações estabelecidas no mundo virtual. São problematizadas as imbricações entre a cultura do consumo e uma cultura da violência entendendo que esta intersecção se dá por meio do simbólico, em especial no contexto midiático, como estratégia de mobilização dos indivíduos em prol da manutenção das perspectivas hegemônicas. A discussão desenvolve-se a partir do entendimento do consumo como referente fundamental para conformação de narrativas sobre si e sobre o outro, compondo universos simbólicos repletos de significações. A reflexão se dá com base em um levantamento bibliográfico com foco em consumo, violência e identidade, salientando o cultural do consumo, abarcando a violência simbólica e como isso impacta a constituição de identidades na modernidade tardia. A violência é pensada entendendo cultura do consumo e da violência como esferas refletoras de significados ideológicos, que alimentam e são realimentadas pela mídia como fonte e modeladora de informação e experiências sobre as mais diversas questões.
Dialogismo e aspectos metasonoros em Saneamento básico, de Jorge Furtado
Authors: Barbosa Afonso , Mousinho Luiz Antonio
Published: May 2021

O presente artigo objetiva realizar uma análise sobre dados da produção de sentido na obra de Jorge Furtado, desenvolvendo observações em torno da trilha sonora de Saneamento básico, o filme, longa-metragem de 2007. Nesse sentido, o estudo pretende examinar como a porção sonora da obra se destaca pelo investimento que faz em estruturas dialógicas, abrindo espaço ainda para debater a maneira como esses elementos também incorporam aspectos metalinguísticos na tessitura do filme. Saneamento básico possui aspectos multifacetados, diálogos explícitos e implícitos, além de jogos metalinguísticos amparados por dispositivos cômicos e discussões importantes acerca da própria arte em seu estatuto autorreferencial ou enquanto elemento sensibilizador, mobilizador e de congregação comunitária. Nesse contexto, o estudo deve debruçar-se ainda sobre esta duplicação que se desdobra a partir da utilização de um processo metaficcional dentro da narrativa do filme e elementos da construção do cômico. Além disso, cabe-nos examinar como o impulso criativo está entrelaçado a elementos como o conhecimento internalizado e a sensibilidade artística — latente, velada e revelada —, que é paulatinamente desenvolvida nos personagens. Dessa forma, este artigo procura observar os desdobramentos da metalinguagem e do dialogismo, examinando como esses conceitos se aplicam no filme, especialmente pela análise dos engajamentos que são construídos a partir da trilha sonora.
A militância forjada dos bots: A campanha municipal de 2016 como laboratório eleitoral
Authors: Santini Rose Marie , Salles Débora , Tucci Giulia , Estrella Charbelly
Published: May 2021

Os “bots políticos” são perfis automatizados programados para atuar nas redes sociais com o objetivo de influenciar as discussões políticas, endossar ou difamar um candidato, disseminar propaganda de campanha, criar ruído no debate público e interferir na formação da opinião dos usuários. Este artigo investiga como essas contas afetaram a conversação política no Twitter durante o primeiro turno das eleições municipais de 2016 no Rio de Janeiro, contribuindo para a discussão de como os bots podem colocar em risco a comunicação on-line e afetar a campanha e os resultados eleitorais (HOWARD; WOOLLEY; CALO, 2018). A partir da abordagem da teoria fundamentada, utilizamos a netnografia observacional aliada à análise de discurso para estudar o comportamento de um conjunto de bots no Twitter durante o primeiro turno das eleições municipais no Rio de Janeiro. Detectamos 3.101 bots, responsáveis por 19.915 tuítes, e classificamos nossa amostra em três categorias de bots com base no conteúdo dos tuítes: bots gerados por usuário, spambots de mídia e bots políticos. Estes últimos foram divididos em duas subcategorias, em função do tipo de discurso que difundiram na rede: “ativistas” e “agentes provocadores”. Os resultados da pesquisa demonstram que os bots políticos representam um problema social crítico por ocuparem um vácuo de opiniões políticas oferecendo posições partidárias para aqueles que não as possuem. Concluímos que estas contas automatizadas prepararam o terreno para a vitória de Jair Bolsonaro nas eleições presidenciais de 2018, apoiando o então deputado e fortalecendo sua presença nas redes.
As transformações nas campanhas eleitorais: Uma reflexão sobe o papel dos partidos políticos e do impacto das novas ferramentas de comunicação
Authors: Pacheco Daniela Paiva de Almeida , Rodrigues Wallace Faustino da Rocha
Published: May 2021

O objetivo do texto é o de promover uma reflexão sobre a forma como a campanha eleitoral é organizada na atualidade, levando em conta a existência do que é conhecido como campanha permanente. Para tanto, apresenta-se um debate estruturado em dois eixos. O primeiro aborda o papel dos partidos políticos na produção das campanhas. Eles são resgatados em seu potencial de organizadores do processo eleitoral e atores responsáveis pela veiculação da informação política, principalmente em virtude de seu monopólio de representação. O segundo eixo trata da disputa em torno da construção e desconstrução das imagens dos partidos e candidatos e da definição dos issues de campanha, redimensionada pela utilização das redes sociais, ainda que não descartada a importância dos meios de comunicação de massas como arena de visibilidade privilegiada. Assim sendo, a questão recai sobre a centralidade e o controle da informação por parte dos atores políticos tradicionais frente à produção e disseminação de conteúdo nas redes sociais. Desse modo, evidencia-se que o controle quanto à difusão das informações torna-se um desafio e o impacto na campanha eleitoral é evidente.
Inpatient Care Costs of COVID-19 in South Africa’s Public Healthcare System
Authors: Edoka Ijeoma , Fraser Heather , Jamieson Lise , Meyer-Rath Gesine , Mdewa Winfrida
Published: May 2021

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has had a devastating impact globally, with severe health and economic consequences. To prepare health systems to deal with the pandemic, epidemiological and cost projection models are required to inform budgets and efficient allocation of resources. This study estimates daily inpatient care costs of COVID-19 in South Africa, an important input into cost projection and economic evaluation models. Methods: We adopted a micro-costing approach, which involved the identification, measurement and valuation of resources used in the clinical management of COVID-19. We considered only direct medical costs for an episode of hospitalisation from the South African public health system perspective. Resource quantities and unit costs were obtained from various sources. Inpatient costs per patient day was estimated for consumables, capital equipment and human resources for three levels of inpatient care – general wards, high care wards and intensive care units (ICUs). Results: Average daily costs per patient increased with the level of care. The highest average daily cost was estimated for ICU admissions – 271 USD to 306 USD (financial costs) and ~800 USD to 830 USD (economic costs, excluding facility fee) depending on the need for invasive vs. non-invasive ventilation (NIV). Conversely, the lowest cost was estimated for general ward-based care – 62 USD to 79 USD (financial costs) and 119 USD to 278 USD (economic costs, excluding facility fees) depending on the need for supplemental oxygen. In high care wards, total cost was estimated at 156 USD, financial costs and 277 USD, economic costs (excluding facility fees). Probabilistic sensitivity analyses suggest our costs estimates are robust to uncertainty in cost inputs. Conclusion: Our estimates of inpatient costs are useful for informing budgeting and planning processes and cost-effectiveness analysis in the South African context. However, these estimates can be adapted to inform policy decisions in other context.
Seeking Healthcare During Lockdown: Challenges, Opportunities and Lessons for the Future
Authors: Imlach Fiona , McKinlay Eileen , Kennedy Jonathan , Pledger Megan , Middleton Lesley , Cumming Jacqueline , McBride-Henry Karen
Published: May 2021

Background: In Aotearoa/New Zealand, the first nation-wide coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) lockdown occurred from March 23, 2020 to May 13, 2020, requiring most people to stay at home. Health services had to suddenly change how they delivered healthcare and some services were limited or postponed. This study investigated access to healthcare during this lockdown period, whether patients delayed seeking healthcare and reasons for these delays, focusing on the accessibility of primary care services. Methods: Adults (aged 18 years or older) who had contact with primary care services were invited through social media and email lists to participate in an online survey (n = 1010) and 38 people were recruited for in-depth interviews. We thematically analysed qualitative data from the survey and interviews, reported alongside relevant descriptive survey results. Results: More than half (55%) of survey respondents delayed seeking healthcare during lockdown. Factors at a national or health system-level that could influence delay were changing public service messages, an excessive focus on COVID-19 and urgent issues, and poor service integration. Influential factors at a primary care-level were communication and outreach, use of technology, gatekeeping, staff manner and the safety of the clinical practice environment. Factors that influenced patients’ individual decisions to seek healthcare were the ability to self-manage and self-triage, consciousness of perceived pressure on health services and fear of infection. Conclusion: In future pandemic lockdowns or crises, appropriate access to primary care services can be improved by unambiguous national messages and better integration of services. Primary care practices should adopt rapid proactive outreach to patients, fostering a calm but safe clinical practice environment. More support for patients to self-manage and self-triage appropriately could benefit over-burdened health systems during lockdowns and as part of business as usual in less extraordinary times.
Motivations and Limits for COVID-19 Policy Compliance in Germany and Switzerland
Authors: Zimmermann Bettina M. , Fiske Amelia , McLennan Stuart , Sierawska Anna , Hangel Nora , Buyx Alena
Published: May 2021

Background: In contrast to neighboring countries, German and Swiss authorities refrained from general curfews during the first pandemic wave in spring 2020, calling for solidarity and personal responsibility instead. Using a qualitative methodology, this study aims to explore why people in Germany and Switzerland were motivated to comply with policy measures during the first wave of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, and what factors hindered or limited their motivation. While quantitative surveys can measure the level of compliance, or broadly ask what motives people had for compliance, we here strive to explain why and how these motives lead to compliance. Methods: This publication has been made possible by the joint work of the members of the "Solidarity in times of pandemics" (SolPan) research commons. Seventy-seven semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with members of the general public in Germany (n = 46) and the German-speaking part of Switzerland (n = 31) in April 2020. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed following a grounded theory approach. Results: Three themes were identified that summarize factors contributing to compliant or noncompliant behavior. (1) Social cohesion was, on the one hand, an important motivator for compliance, but at the same time related to conflicting needs, illustrating the limits of compliance. (2) Consequences were considered on both the individual level (eg, consequences of individual infection) and societal level (eg, the societal and economic consequences of restrictions). (3) While for some participants following the rules was perceived as a matter of principle, others stressed the importance of making their own risk assessment, which was often associated with with a need for evidence on the effectiveness and reasons behind measures. Conclusion: A variety of motives contribute to COVID-19 related compliance. Authorities should seek to address these multi-faceted aspects to support motivation for compliance in a large proportion of the population.
Implications of COVID-19: The Effect of Working From Home on Financial and Mental Well-Being in the UK
Authors: Giovanis Eleftherios , Ozdamar Oznur
Published: May 2021

In response to the threat posed by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the UK prime minister announced on the 23rd of March strict lockdowns and introduced a new way of living and working, at least temporarily. This included working from home (WHF) wherever possible. Many experts from the IT industry were long arguing about the potential for WFH, which suddenly now became indisputable. The objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of WFH on the individuals’ perception about their future financial situation and their mental well-being. We apply a difference-in-differences (DiD) framework using data from the UK Household Longitudinal Study (UKHLS) combined with the UKHLS COVID-19 survey conducted in April 2020. Our findings suggest that those who have not experienced a shift from working at the employer’s premises to WFH became more concerned about their future financial situation. However, we find that WFH has a negative impact on mental well-being. On the other hand, we find no difference in the mental well-being when we consider those who work from home on occasion. The findings of this study have policy implications for government, firms and health practitioners. In particular, a balance between WFH and at the employer’s premises may provide both financial security and maintain the mental and psychological well-being at satisfying levels.
INFORMATION SYSTEM FOR INVENTORY OF GOODS USING PROTOTYPE MODEL
Authors: Syahriani Syahriani , Basuki Basuki , Indriyani Luthfi
Published: May 2021

Inventory management is the most important activity, because if the inventory in the warehouse is not managed properly, it will allow a decrease in profits and loss of customers. PT Andalan Teknik Karetindo Putra Bangsa has weaknesses in its inventory management activities, where the presentation of the information is done manually, namely through the process of recording in a book, then transferred to the Speedsheet application. Sometimes the data submitted is inaccurate, that is, there are still errors regarding the stock of goods. In this research, we used a prototype software model.. Making this website is made to overcome these problems and to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of company performance. Where we make 2 level access rights, namely for warehouse staff and company leaders. With this website, warehouse staff can quickly and accurately find out the availability of goods and leaders can immediately find out the stock of goods available in the warehouse and can immediately print inventory reports without having to ask to the warehouse
Revisit the implementation of E-Learning: Lesson Learned from COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Dwidienawati Diena
Published: May 2021

The COVID-19 outbreak does not only have an impact on human health, but it also impacts other aspects of human life, including the education sector (Huang et al., 2020). In many countries, health authorities' recommendation forced the education sector to find an alternative to face-to-face delivery methods. The e-learning implementation during the COVID-19 outbreak is crucial. Because of how long the COVID-19 outbreak will last, nobody can confirm that the learning process should be undisrupted in the case of disruption.
Enriquecimiento de las habilidades cognitivas de niños con aptitud sobresaliente
Authors: González Arreola Mercedes Rosalía , Chávez Soto Blanca Ivet
Published: May 2021

De acuerdo con investigaciones recientes, los programas de enriquecimiento pueden ser una alternativa pedagógica que permite estimular las habilidades cognoscitivas de los estudiantes con necesidades educativas especiales. A partir de estas ideas, se planteó como objetivo diseñar e instrumentar el programa de enriquecimiento Meccano para favorecer las habilidades cognitivas de niños con aptitud sobresaliente. El presente es un estudio mixto, con un diseño Pre test-Post test, donde participaron seis niños con aptitud sobresaliente, quienes obtuvieron puntuaciones iguales o superiores al percentil 75, en por lo menos tres de las siguientes variables: creatividad, razonamiento perceptual, compromiso con la tarea, autoconcepto académico y nominación del maestro. El perfil de los alumnos se complementó con la prueba WISC IV, y con base en la información se diseñó el Programa de enriquecimiento Meccano, a partir de las propuestas de Duarte y Feuerstein. Después del análisis cuantitativo y cualitativo, en el Post test, se observaron incrementos significativos en las variables de creatividad e inteligencia, por lo que se recomienda continuar con el proyecto para fortalecer las habilidades superiores y lograr que los niños tengan un desarrollo óptimo en los distintos ámbitos de su vida.
Contenidos digitales para niños de primera infancia: el caso del portal Maguaré
Authors: Amador-Baquiro Juan Carlos
Published: May 2021

El portal digital Maguaré, implementado por el Ministerio de Cultura de Colombia, tiene como propósito ofrecer experiencias de inmersión a los niños de primera infancia para que interactúen con contenidos digitales, relacionados con el patrimonio cultural de la Nación. A partir de una perspectiva cultural de la comunicación digital y de una mirada crítica de la primera infancia, comprendida como una construcción social que se redefine en la contemporaneidad tras la mediatización de la realidad, el artículo explora, desde una perspectiva cualitativa, algunos contenidos de este portal, empleando como metodología el análisis crítico del discurso multimodal, el cual analiza las funciones comunicativas de los diversos modos semióticos que configuran las narrativas en la actualidad. En los resultados sobresale la complementariedad entre distintos modos semióticos en los contenidos, situación que propicia la significación y la sensibilidad, pero también los estereotipos. Como conclusiones se destacan: el énfasis en el modo verbal, así como su integración con la imagen y la codificación textual, hacen posible que el usuario apropie referentes que representan la diversidad cultural, étnica y territorial; además, Maguaré emplea estrategias de racialización que anclan a las personas afrodescendientes, representadas en una diferencia subalternizada, inventada y narrada desde un mundo imaginado blanco-mestizo.
THE CONCEPT OF ETHNIC INTEGRATION FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF ISLAMIC-BASED DEVELOPMENT IN MALAYSIA
Authors: Abang Muis Abang Mohd Razif , Esa Mohd Sohaimi , Ationg Romzi , Mohd Tamring Budi Anto , Abdul Hamid Jais , Mokhtar Saifulazry , Othman Irma Wani
Published: May 2021

This paper aims to identify the concept of ethnic integration from the perspective of Islamic-based development with reference to the current situation in Malaysia. This ethnic integration has become one of the important aspects of the global and local agenda, especially in Malaysia in conveying the message of peace for all mankind. The identification of the concept of ethnic integration from the perspective of Islamic-based development can be divided into three main components, tasawur, principles, and goals. The perspective of Islamic -based development is seen to place an aspect of comprehensive development that is based on oneness to Allah SWT, based on Islamic philosophy, and sourced from Islamic epistemology. Islamic-based development differs from Western conventional development because Islamic-based development integrates both physical or material aspects and spiritual or spiritual aspects in all development activities. In the context of this paper, the integration of society, especially those of various races and ethnicities is an important agenda in conveying the message of unity and peace for mankind, especially in Malaysia which has a multi-ethnic society. Therefore, this paper tries to describe how Islam emphasizes the value of wasatiyyah and the importance of integration, especially between Muslims and non -Muslims, especially in Malaysia in various aspects of their lives, including in the aspect of development.
Averroës’ Takfīr of al-Ghazālı̄: Ta’wīl and Causal Kufr
Authors: Parvizian Saja
Published: May 2021

Al-Ghazālı̄ famously claims in the Incoherence of the Philosophers that al-Fārābī and Avicenna are unbelievers because they hold philosophical positions that conflict with Islam. What is less well-known, however, is that Averroës claims in the Decisive Treatise that al-Fārābī and Avicenna are not unbelievers; rather, al-Ghazālı̄ is the true unbeliever for writing the Incoherence of the Philosophers. In this paper, my aim is to present a sustained reconstruction of Averroës’ legal and philosophical argument for why al-Ghazālı̄ is an unbeliever. The crux of Averroës’ argument is that al-Ghazālı̄ has expressed false allegorical interpretations of scripture to unqualified persons, which has caused them to fall into unbelief. By being causally responsible for other people’s unbelief, al-Ghazālı̄ is an unbeliever as well.
Universidade como organização educativa na qualificação dos profissionais e crescimento económico de Angola
Authors: Cangue Justino
Published: May 2021

Este artigo apresenta o resultado da pesquisa realizada nas instituições Universidade Katiavala Buila, Universidade Mandume Ya Ndemonfayo, Universidade Cuito Cuanavale, Universidade Metodista Unida, Universidade Luenji a Conde, Universidade José Eduardo dos Santos, ISCED/Huíla, ISCED/Luanda, ISP Independente, ISP Sinodal, Instituto Gregório Semedo e no ISP Tundavala. O objetivo é compreender os processos internos e vislumbrar caminhos para a promoção do crescimento económico de Angola com os seus próprios recursos humanos, formados no ensino superior angolano. Foram utilizados os paradigmas qualitativo e quantitativo, com a aplicação de uma entrevista em profundidade para gestores e dois questionários semiestruturados para os estudantes e para professores universitários. A pesquisa mostrou que, desde 2012, houve a disseminação das instituições de ensino superior pelo país, o que permitiu uma quantidade maior de matrículas para os estudantes e também um aumento do número de professores. A maioria das instituições universitárias precisa de professores qualificados, supervisão e apoio institucional, em equipamentos e recursos, para poderem alcançar os resultados exigidos pela legislação angolana.
Preservice teachers’ beliefs in the context of teaching mathematics to English learners in the United States
Authors: Fernandes Anthony , Kahn Leslie H.
Published: May 2021

This study examines the beliefs of fourteen preservice teachers in the Southeast United States about mathematics and language in the context of teaching mathematics to English learners. Qualitative interviews were conducted using survey items as a starting point for the questioning. Speer’s (2008) construct of collections of beliefs was used to understand the preservice teachers’ belief system and the interaction of beliefs. Three primary beliefs emerged: mathematics is universal, mathematical language, and language barrier. Their belief about mathematics being universal was grounded in their view that mathematics was mostly about symbols and equations. The preservice teachers believed that there was some language in mathematics, though these features were not as pervasive as the symbolic form. Most of them also believed that the English learners were recent immigrants to the country and that English was a barrier for the students in the mathematics classroom. The beliefs interacted in three ways as they responded to the items: dominance, tension, and convergence.
ANALISIS FUNGSI PRODUKSI USAHA TERNAK SAPI DI KECAMATAN TOMPASO BARAT KABUPATEN MINAHASA
Authors: Thamrin Aprilia M , Elly Femi H , Santa Nansi M , Manese Merry A.V
Published: May 2021

PRODUCTION FUNCTION ANALYSIS OF CATTLE FARMING IN WEST TOMPASO DISTRICT REGENCY OF MINAHASA.Farmers in West Tompaso district  cultivatedBeef cattle traditionally and not as main farming.The government in this case also encourages farmers to increase production. The problem is whether the production factor used affects the production of beef cattle.  The research aims to determine the factors affecting cattle production. The data collected is primary data and secondary data. Sampling uses the Cluster Random Sampling method. The analysis of the data used is multiple regression with econometrics approaches and software using SAS program 9.4. The results showed that the respondents ' lifespan ranged from 30-65 years to categorized productive age. Based on the results of the study can be concluded that together the factors of land production, labor and feed are real effect on the production of beef cattle. Land production and feed factors that have real effect on the production of beef cattle.Keywords: Land, labor, feed, beef cattle
PENGARUH JARAK TANAM indigofera zollingeriana TERHADAP KAPASITAS TAMPUNG POTENSIAL TERNAK SAPI DI AREAL PERTANAMAN KELAPA
Authors: Ering Verlando J. , Telleng Malcky M. , Rumambi Agnitje , Sumolang Constantyn I.J.
Published: May 2021

THE EFFECT OF PLANTING SPACING  indigofera zollingeriana ON POTENTIAL CARRYING  CAPACITY OF BEEF CATTLE IN COCONUT PLANTATION. This study seeks to know the influence of the distance cropping indigofera zollingeriana faith in capacity of the potential capacity cattle in the area coconut plantations with distance different cropping. This research using complete random design (CRD) with 3 treatment consisting of j1: distance cropping 1,0 m x 0,5 m , j2: distance cropping 1,0 m x 1,0 m, and j3: distance cropping 1,0 m x 1,5 m, each treatment consisted of 6 test. Variable measured was fresh production, the production of dry ingredients and capacity capacity. The analysis showed that the treatment plant exert distance different very real (P<0,01 ) of fresh production, the production of dry ingredients and capacity potential capacity test BNJ showed that the distance cropping 1,0 m x 0,5 m give fresh production, the production of dry ingredients and capacity different capacity very real (P<0,01 ) higher than the plant 1,0 m x 1,0 m and distance cropping 1,0 m x 1,5 m . It can be concluded that the distance plant 1,0 m x 0,5 m produce fresh production, the production of dry substances and capacity of the highest potential capacity .Key words: Indigofera zollingeriana, planting space, Potential carrying capacity
PENAMPILAN REPRODUKSI TERNAK SAPI POTONG YANG DI INSEMINASI BUATAN DI KECAMATAN TOMBATU UTARA DAN KECAMATAN RATAHAN
Authors: Sawel Ariny Irma , Lomboan Agustinus , Paath Jantje , Manopo Jouke
Published: May 2021

REPRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE BEEF CATTLE OF ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION IN THE DISTRICT OF NORTH TOMBATU AND SUB DISTRICT OF RATAHAN.   The porpose of this study to know appearance of reproduction beef cattle artificial insemination in the northern Tombatu District and the Sub District of Ratahan in the Southeast Minahasa Regency.  Research the everage valve standard deviation and coefficient of diversity.  Based on research results that service preconception 1.25-1.30, conception rate 70-75%, calving interval 366.4-377.55 and length of pregnancy 279.25-281.1 day. It can be colcluded that the reproductive performance of artificial insemination beef cattle in North Tombatu and Ratahan Districts already quite good. Keywords: Reproduction, beef cattle, artificial insemination