bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and Validation of a Questionnaire to Measure the Acceptance of Telemedicine by Healthcare Professionals in Germany
Authors: Verfürth Martina
Published: March 2021

Background: Telemedicine allows healthcare professionals to manage patient treatments remotely and to benefit from the interaction of telemedicine centers. Even though telemedicine responds to the current burdens in healthcare systems, these complex infrastructures depend on technology, financing, organization, policy, legislation, and, not least, on their corresponding acceptance by the user. Little is known in this context about the drivers for this acceptance by healthcare professionals giving treatment. Germany, with the highest healthcare spending in the world, is particularly lagging here. As there is less focus on guidance for building acceptance constructs, and, in particular, little research on the acceptance of interactive telemedicine by healthcare professionals in Germany, the objective was the collection of the relevant factors influencing German healthcare professionals in the implementation of telemedicine service programs (TSSs). Acceptance constructs were built and operationalized in a questionnaire, taking into consideration the gold standard technology acceptance model of Davis.Methods: A literature review was conducted to identify the acceptance factors that had already been detected and frequently confirmed. These factors were evaluated according to the coverage of the interactive infrastructures with telemedicine centers and how accurately they fitted Germany. The identified factors were adapted, and missing factors were designed, via an idea collection for items. The reliability of the developed constructs was tested using a field test to check the constructs using item revision analysis.Results: Frequently supported external variables, taken from 17 filtered studies covering the technical, organizational, social, legal, and individual context, were identified. However, the review showed that there was less focus on the German setting and the interactive aspect, so the market-related variables were adapted and new constructs of “trust in the telemedicine center” and “relationship to patient” were added. Ten variables were proven to have a reliability, measured with Cronbach’s Alpha, of more than 0.7.Conclusion: This paper enhances the already existing technology acceptance studies in healthcare by covering German specifications and the interactive character of TSSs. A corresponding questionnaire has been developed ready for future research.
Early Prediction of Clinical Response to Anti-TNF Treatment using Multi-omics and Machine Learning in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Yoosuf Niyaz , Maciejewski Mateusz , Ziemek Daniel , Jelinsky Scott A. , Folkersen Lasse , Müller Malin , Sahlström Peter , Vivar Nancy , Catrina Anca , Berg Louise , Klareskog Lars , Padyukov Leonid , Brynedal Boel
Published: March 2021

ObjectivesAdvances in immunotherapy by blocking TNF have remarkably improved treatment outcomes for rheumatoid arthritis patients. Although treatment specifically targets TNF, the downstream mechanisms of immune suppression are not completely understood. The present study was aimed to detect biomarkers and expression signatures of treatment response to TNF inhibition.MethodsPeripheral blood mononuclear cells were obtained from 39 patients collected before anti-TNF treatment initiation (day 0) and after three months. Response to treatment was defined based on the EULAR criteria and classified 23 patients as responders and 16 as non-responders. We investigated differences in gene expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells, the proportion of cell types and cell phenotypes in peripheral blood using flow cytometry, and the level of proteins in plasma. Finally, using biological measurements, we run machine learning models to predict non-response. ResultsThe gene expression analysis in baseline samples revealed notably a higher expression of the gene EPPK1 in future responders. We also detected the suppression of genes and proteins following treatment, including suppression of expression of the gene, T-cell inhibitor CHI3L1, and its protein YKL-40. The gene expression results were replicated in an independent cohort. Finally, machine learning models mainly based on transcriptomics data showed high predictive utility (ROC AUC ± SEM: 0.81 ± 0.17) in classifying non-response to anti-TNF treatment in RA.ConclusionsOur integrative multi-omics analyses identified new biomarkers for prediction of response, found pathways influenced by treatment and suggested new predictive models of anti-TNF treatment in RA patients.
The meaning of laparoscopic procedure against inguinal hernia
Authors: Sato Hideaki , Yoshizawa Jyoji , Sugiyama Akihide , Nakagami Tomokazu , Watarai Yu
Published: March 2021

Background

Laparoscopic approach, especially laparoscopic percutaneous extraperitoneal closure (LPEC) for inguinal hernia (IH) is widely spread but few studies have compared its invasiveness with that of conventional approach (POTTS). This study compared the role and invasiveness of LPEC with POTTS at our institute.
Material and methods

The records of 940 IH patients from 2014 to 2019 were analyzed on the basis of age, sex, method of surgery, pre- and post-operative diagnosis, postoperative symptoms, and complications.
Results

The POTTS group comprised 393 males, of which 44 were diagnosed with contralateral hernia (7.1%). In the LPEC group, 158 males had an average age of 3.88 years. The contralateral patent processus vaginalis (CPPV) was identified in 148 patients during operation. POTTS operation time for patients aged < 1 year was 42.7 minutes, vs 33.4 minutes for LPEC. The two groups experienced comparable paces of fever and first oral intake time; however, pain and recurrence rate were greater in the LPEC group.
Conclusion

LPEC can be performed to avoid contralateral recurrences; surgical time is reduced for patients aged < 1 year. However, the reduced invasiveness of LPEC compared to that of POTTS did not minimize postoperative symptoms or complications.
Use, Perception, and Local Management of Copernicia Prunifera (Miller) H. E. Moore in Rural Communities in the Brazilian Savanna
Authors: Almeida José Afonso Santana , Feitosa Nágila Alves , Sousa Leilane Carvalho , Silva Raimundo Nonato Oliveira , Morais Rodrigo Ferreira , Monteiro Julio Marcelino , Junior Jose Ribamar Sousa
Published: March 2021

Background
Copernicia prunifera is a species native to the northeastern region of Brazil and is economically important as a source of income for many human populations in the region that carry out intense extractive activity on the species. This study aimed to evaluate the uses, management, and perception of the species by local extractors.
Methods
Two communities were studied, Bem Quer, where 15 extractors were interviewed, and Cana, where 21 extractors considered specialists were interviewed, totaling a sample of 36 informants. A regression analysis was used to explore the relationships between social variables (age, time in extractive activity, and income obtained from extraction) with the number of leaves exploited. The relationship between time of extraction, and time of residence in the community was also analyzed.
Results
The leaf was indicated as the most used part, from which an important powder is extracted for the production of wax. In addition, the leaf was also indicated for fertilization and construction. Uses were also indicated for the stem (construction) and fruit (forage). The relationship between the socioeconomic variables, income obtained through extraction and the amount of leaves extracted (in thousands) was significant (R2 = 0.73 and p < 0.001). However, the other variables analyzed in this study, such as the time spent extracting leaves and the amount of time residing in the community (R2 = 0.03 and p > 0.05), the number of leaves extracted and the age of informants (R2 = 0.05 and p > 0.05) and number of leaves extracted and time of extraction (R2 = 0.04 and p > 0.05) did not indicate a relationship.
Conclusion
C. prunifera was had a great economic and cultural importance for studied communities. It is possible that the economic factor is the preponderant force that directs the management strategies of native species.
Pedestrians in Iran: Determinants of Unsafe Traffic Behaviors of Pedestrians
Authors: Aghdam Fatemeh Bakhtari , Bazargani Homayoyn Sadeghi , Sarbakhsh Parvin , Pashaie Tahere , Ponent Koen , Nicknejad Maryam
Published: March 2021

Background: Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable groups in traffic accidents. This study investigates the determinants of traffic behaviors of pedestrians. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, the behavior of 600 pedestrians in the city of Urmia, northwestern Iran, was evaluated from May to October 2018, using a pedestrian traffic behavior questionnaire consisting of five dimensions: traffic violations, traffic distraction, adherence to traffic rules, aggressive behavior, and positive behaviors. Cluster sampling was conducted among 30% of the health centers in each district of the city. Thereafter, individuals were randomly selected from each center depending on the covered population. Results: Although 17% of the pedestrians demonstrated safe traffic behaviors, over 85% were distracted, more than 80% did not comply with traffic laws, the majority violated rules and displayed no positive traffic behaviors, and half of the participants were aggressive. Age, gender, marital status, education level, daily walking rate, and transportation mode were significant predictors of traffic behavior.Conclusion: Most pedestrians demonstrate unsafe traffic behaviors. The youth, those who were single, those with lower education, and those with less walking rate showcased higher unsafe behaviors. Training and intervention programs should be implemented to improve all domains of pedestrian traffic behaviors factoring in age and other predictors.
Detecting Land Use Modification And Its Influence on Resident Communities
Authors: Endalew Tesfahun Admas
Published: March 2021

Background

The study intended to detecting the land use land cover changes, trends and their magnitude between 1986 and 2019 years by using GIS and remote sensing in Fagita Lekoma District, Amhara region, Ethiopia. Three satellite data set of Landsat Thematic Mapper for 1986, Enhanced Thematic Mapper Plus for 2002 and Operational Land Imager for 2019 were used generate land use and land cover maps of the study area. Post classification comparison changed detection method was employed to identify gains and losses between Land Use Land Cover classes. Socioeconomic survey, key informant interview and field observation were also used conclude the encouragement of land use /land cover change in the study area.
Results

The result shows that cultivated land and wetland similarly decline in the entire study periods. In the 33 years, forest lands expanded by upon 200% of the original forest cover what was existed on the base year. Whereas, a result of the socioeconomic analysis the expansion of Acacia decurrens tree plantations and agricultural land are main causes of land use land cover change in the study area. The impact of this land use land cover change is more significant on the livelihood condition and status of the study area.
Conclusion

The land use system of the study area highly converted cultivation land into forest/tree plantation. Mainly, the expansion of Acacia decurrens tree plantation on farmland is increasing the income of local residence when compare with the previous living condition in the study area.
Effect of an intervention on antibiotic prescription control for respiratory diseases: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Yue Chang , Cui Zhezhe , Yang Guanghong , He Xun , Wang Lei , Xin Zhang , Tang Lei
Published: March 2021

Background The global health system is improperly using antibiotics, particularly in the treatment of respiratory diseases. We aimed to examine the effectiveness of implementing a unifaceted or multifaceted intervention for unreasonable antibiotic prescriptions.
Methods Relevant literature published in the databases of Pubmed, Embase, Science Direct, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Chinese Journal Full-text (CNKI) and Wanfang was searched. Data were independently filtered and extracted by two reviewers based on a pre-designed inclusion and exclusion criteria. The Cochrane collaborative bias risk tool was used to evaluate the quality of the included studies.
Results A total of 1,074 relevant studies were obtained of which 69 were included in the systematic review. Fifty-nine studies reported positive results, that is, the primary results in the intervention groups were superior to those in the control groups. The remaining 10 studies had negative or partially negative results. In 22 studies the outcome variable was the antibiotic prescription rate with detailed reports of the number of prescriptions being further analyzed, of which 19 involved educational interventions for doctors, including: (1) Online training using email, web pages and webinar, (2) Antibiotic guidelines for information dissemination measures by email, postal or telephone reminder, (3) Training doctors in communication skills, (4) Short-term interactive educational seminars, and (5) Short-term field training sessions. Seventeen studies of interventions for health care workers also included: (6) Regular or irregular assessment/audit of antibiotic prescriptions, (7) Prescription recommendations from experts and peers delivered at a meeting or online, (8) Publicly reporting on doctors' antibiotic usage to patients, hospital administrators, and health authorities, (9) Monitoring/feedback prescribing behavior to general practices by email or poster, and (10) Studies involving patients and their families (n=10). Seventeen studies were rated as having a low risk of bias while five were rated as having a high risk of bias.
Conclusion Implementing multiple interventions in health care institutions can effectively reduce antibiotic prescription rates. Adding multiple feedback interventions to educational interventions may be a more reasonable control method.
Registrations: This systematic review was registered in PROSPERO, registration number: CRD42020192560.
O povijesti pojma slobode
Authors: Veljak Lino
Published: March 2021

Pojam slobode (grč. eleuthería, lat. libertas) oblikuje se u antičkoj filozofiji u značenju privilegija koji pripada punoljetnim slobodnim građanima pa su mogućnosti slobode lišeni stranci, maloljetnici, žene i robovi. Takvu odredbu slobode preuzima i rimsko pravo, zarazliku od stoičke filozofije i novozavjetnog kršćanstva, gdje se sloboda proširuje na sva ljudska bića. Dok stoici (bar djelomice) osuđuju ropstvo, dotle kršćanstvo eshatologizira slobodu (svi su ljudi slobodni kao Božja djeca, ali to ne implicira ukidanje ovozemaljskog ropstva). Srednji vijek nadovezuje se na takvo poimanje slobode, ali se u tom razdoblju uz ostalo formulira i sekularan pojam slobode, kakav posebice dolazi do izražaja u Magna carta libertatum. Moderni pojam slobode oblikuje se u novovjekovlju, od Lockeove odredbe života, slobode i vlasništva kao neotuđivih građanskih prava, preko Voltaireova zahtjeva za slobodom mišljenja i Rousseauova izjednačavanja slobode s ljudskom biti, pa do Kantova poimanja slobode koja je moguća samo posredstvom uma. Ideali Francuske revolucije sloboda, jednakost, bratstvo (liberté, égalité, fraternité) konkretiziraju se u Deklaraciji o ljudskim i građanskim pravima (a na granice tom deklaracijom postavljene slobode ukazat će Marx). Klasičnu liberalnu koncepciju slobode formulirat će pak John Stuart Mill, a danas se rasprave o slobodi vode, s jedne strane, na razini pitanja o individualnoj slobodi (primjerice, po Sartreovu i Camusovu mišljenju čovjek je nužno slobodan, dok je po nekim zastupnicima sociobiologije i istraživačima u polju neurobiologije ljudsko biće bitno genski determinirano), a s druge strane, na razini problematiziranja društvenih pretpostavki slobode ljudskog bića (gdje se u središtu diskusije nalazi pitanje je li privatno vlasništvo uvjet mogućnosti slobode ili je ono prepreka zbiljskoj slobodi).
Estetika slobode
Authors: Pešić Boško
Published: March 2021

Smisao slobode još od Kanta filozofski se ne sagledava toliko iz unutarnjeg iskustva, koliko iz potrebe razumijevanja svijeta. Djelo slobode time nije tek jedno među mnogim ljudskim djelima, već njihova pretpostavka i razlog. U svojim najvišim dosezima sloboda na taj način egzistenciji ostavlja krajnju mogućnost u kojoj se ona sama pojavljuje kao estetski monolit. Estetika slobode, naime, sagledava njenu uzvišenost – uzvišenost koja se suprotstavlja svakoj bijedi trpljenja njenog izostanka. Sinkopa slobode u sebi sadrži njenu estetsku izvodljivost kao trzaj koji je ravan domaku, ali ne i otkriću slobode, one slobode koju su mnogi u nizanju epoha u brojnim navratima težnje različito razmatrali, ali koju zbog bijega od odgovornosti za nju nikada
u cjelini njene uzvišenosti nisu do kraja otkrili. Ovo izlaganje pokušat će utoliko dati svoj doprinos u razumijevanju pitanja je li filozofsko poimanje slobode doista poput domišljanja kvadrature kruga (Arendt).
Sloboda i eksperiment
Authors: Uzunić Mislav
Published: March 2021

Rad tematizira problem stupnja slobode znanstvenika pri provedbi znanstvenih eksperimenata i odabira znanstvenih teorija. Razmatra se pojam epistemička sloboda koji se odnosi na napetost između čovjeka i svijeta te će se pojam proširiti i razraditi hermeneutičkom teorijom. U anglosaksonskoj filozofiji problem se pod ovim nazivom pojavio nedavno te je još u fazi artikulacije. U tom je pogledu naročito korisna teorija
hermeneutičara koji su se bavili problemom interpretacije u prirodnim znanostima, prvenstveno zbog ukazivanja na čovjekova ontološka ograničenja. Rad nastoji dati doprinos teoriji znanosti ukazujući na interpretativnu, a time i hermeneutičku narav znanosti na taj način da analizira epistemičku slobodu preko uloge znanstvene tradicije i uporabe
instrumenata.
Ekološka teorija grada Roberta Ezre Parka i Ernesta Watsona Burgessa
Authors: Dokić Marko
Published: March 2021

Autor u radu analizira jedan pristup u okviru urbane sociologije, karakterističan za čikašku školu, koji je spajao određene biološke premise u poimanju grada s tipičnim sociološkim pristupom, promatrajući grad kao svojevrstan superorganizam i proizvod prirode, zbog čega se naziva ekološkom teorijom grada. U tom smislu, veza između biologije i sociologije, kao i teorije Roberta Ezre Parka i Ernesta Watsona Burgessa
bit će predmet posebne analize koja za cilj ima što više približiti čitatelju ekološki pristup u urbanoj sociologiji. Predmet je posebnog interesa Parkova ideja o gradu kao produktu prirode, sa simbiotskom substrukturom i kulturnom suprastrukturom, kao i Burgessova ideja o rastu grada i teorija koncentričnih zona strukture grada. Također, analizirana su i druga pitanja ekološke teorije grada (dominacija i sukcesija, socijalna delinkvencija, problem marginalnog čovjeka).
CONTRIBUTION OF THE MYCOLOGY LABORATORY IN THE MANAGEMENT OF ORAL CANDIDOSIS IN IMMUNODEPRESSED PATIENTS
Authors:   Parasitology and mycology laboratory of the Mohamed V Military Instruction Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Rabat., Iken M. , Khouloud B. ,   Department of Gastroenterology of the Military Hospital of Instruction Mohamed V, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Rabat., Naoui H. ,   Parasitology and mycology laboratory of the Mohamed V Military Instruction Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Rabat., Boumhil L. ,   Parasitology and mycology laboratory of the Mohamed V Military Instruction Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Rabat., Lmimouni B. ,   Parasitology and mycology laboratory of the Mohamed V Military Instruction Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Rabat.
Published: March 2021

The authors report a series of 49 cases of oral candidiasis including 20 symptomatic, listed on 100 immunocompromised patients collected at the Mohammed V Military Hospital in Rabat over a 12-month period. The objective of this work was to define the risk factors that lay the foundation for fungal proliferation in the mouth, through early detection in asymptomatic or non-asymptomatic patients. Mycological analysis in the laboratory was based on direct examination and culture on Sabouraud chloramphenicol medium with and without cycloheximide, then identification of the fungal species by API 20 C AUX galleries and the VITEK 2 compactÃ‚Â® . The prevalence of oral candidiasis was 49%. The mean age of the patients was 54 years with a sex ratio M / F of 1.04. The contributing factors identified were hyposialia (p = 0.0337), corticosteroid therapy (p = 0.025 and dental removable prostheses (p = 0.000791). The fungal species identified were Candida albicans (79%), Candida dubliniensis (7%), Candida ciferrii (4%), Candida famata (4%), Candida glabrata (4%) and Candida lusitaniae (2%). Conclusion: The oral localization of candidiasis remains very frequent in immunocompromised subjects. Their treatment involves first of all the search for contributing factors and early detection in the presence of asymptomatic forms that only mycological analysis can identify the variety.
ASSOCIATION OF INFLAMMATORY MARKERS IN COVID 19 PATIENTS
Authors:   Assistant Professor, Department of Biochemistry, SGRR Medical College & Hospital., Ahsan Farah , Samreen Sumera ,   Department of Biochemistry, SGRR Medical College & Hospital., Kukreti Sonali ,   Senior Resident, Department of Cardiology, Calicut Medical College.
Published: March 2021

Objective: we aimed to provide overview of association of inflammatory markers with severity of Covid 19. Methods: 100 patients admitted in Shri Mahant Indresh Hospital Covid Ward with positive RT PCR. Serum samples taken and run on VITROS 5600 and reported for CRP, FERRITIN, LDH , Procalcitonin,D-dimer & TLC. Results: with 100 patients 34 were females & rest 66 were males. Out of which all parameters run on all patients. Mean age for males 48.86ÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â‚ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â±15.29 & Mean age for females 43.11ÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â‚ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â±16.21. In all 6 parameters only 3 parameters CRP,LDH,Ferritin had significance in the study with p value <.01. Whereas rest 3 parameters TLC, D-dimer & Procalcitonin had non significant value. D-Dimer had p value 0.483. Procalcitonin p value 0.23. TLC p value 0.08. therefore these parameters in my study was not significant inflammatory markers in patients of Covid 19.
HYBRID MODELING PREY PREDATOR-GENETIC ALGORITHM OF MOLD GROWTH DURING CACAO BEANS STORAGE
Authors:   Laboratoire de recherche en Informatique et Telecommunication(LARIT), Institution polytechnique Felix Houphouet-Boigny (INP-HB), Yamousoukro, Cote dIvoire., Siaho Diomande , Ghislain Pandry ,   Laboratoire de recherche en Informatique et Telecommunication(LARIT), Institution polytechnique Felix Houphouet-Boigny (INP-HB), Yamousoukro, Cote dIvoire., Tanon Lambert Kadjo ,   Laboratoire de recherche en Informatique et Telecommunication(LARIT), Institution polytechnique Felix Houphouet-Boigny (INP-HB), Yamousoukro, Cote dIvoire., Kouassi Ernest Kakou ,   Laboratoire des Procedes Industriels de SynthÃ¨se et Environnement(LAPISENS), Institution polytechnique Felix Houphouet-Boigny (INP-HB), Yamousoukro, Cote dIvoire., Souleymane Oumtanaga ,   Laboratoire de recherche en Informatique et Telecommunication(LARIT), Institution polytechnique Felix Houphouet-Boigny (INP-HB), Yamousoukro, Cote dIvoire., Nogbou Emmanuel Assidjo ,   Laboratoire des Procedes Industriels de SynthÃ¨se et Environnement(LAPISENS), Institution polytechnique Felix Houphouet-Boigny (INP-HB), Yamousoukro, Cote dIvoire.
Published: March 2021

The production and quality of cocoa beans remain key issues for the economy of Cote dIvoire. The fairly humid Ivorian climate promotes increased mold production, leading therefore to a considerable negative impact on beans quality. In this work, a prey predator model was proposed to simulate the molds growth on cocoa beans. Our model (MPM), based on that of Leslie Gower, was identified using a multi-objective genetic algorithm (MOGA). The developed model allows to stimulate the relationship between parameters (i.e. sugar content (Su) and molds (M) with a good accuracy (R=0.9963 and 0.8382 respectively for molds growth and sugar content).
A framework to determine soil-water retention relation for mine wastes and its applications in emergency risk assessment
Authors: Wang Haibin , Chen Quan , Zhang Liwei , Li Xiaochun
Published: March 2021

Tailing dams and waste dumps formed by the accumulation of mine wastes are usually at long-term unsaturated state under evaporation and consolidated drainage conditions. Soil-water retention relation is one of the key constitutive relations to analyze the seepage processes in tailing dams and waste dumps. In this study, typical coarse- and fine-grained tailings from a metallurgical mine were chosen to study the soil-water retention characteristics of the tailing samples. To begin with, the relationship between volumetric water content and suction of the tailing samples was experimentally measured, and typical soil-water characteristic curves (SWCCs) (i.e., Gardner, van Genuchten and Fredlund–Xing curves) were applied to fit the experimental data. After that, four empirical models to estimate the parameters in SWCCs (i.e., Aubertin-1998 model, Aubertin-2003 model, Vanapalli-2005 model and Chin-2010 model) were tested, and the Vanapalli-2005 model was the best-fit model for the tailing samples. Furthermore, this study proposes a generalized emergency risk assessment soil-water retention characteristics model for tailing dams and waste dumps, and a framework for the quick estimation of parameters in the SWCC is proposed as well. The recommended soil-water retention characteristics model and the related parameters can be used to predict water levels in tailing dams and waste dumps, which are very helpful for emergency risk assessment under rainstorm or flooding conditions.
Hand hygiene and safety behaviours at shopping centres in COVID-19: an observation in Wa township in Ghana
Authors: Fielmua Nicholas , Guba Bismarck Yelfogle , Mwingyine Darius Tuonianuo
Published: March 2021

This study observed hand hygiene and safety behaviours of shoppers and shop keepers with respect to COVID-19 safety protocols in shopping centres in Wa, a business centre in North-western Ghana. Based on the theory of planned behaviour, the behaviours of 751 customers of 50 shops with handwashing facilities were observed from April to June 2020. It was observed that adherence to COVID-19 safety protocols at shopping centres was very poor. Although the shops observed provided handwashing facilities, 91.3% of the customers did not practise handwashing before entering the shops. Also, 84.2% of them did not wear mouth-and-nose masks during shopping. Similarly, for 78% of the shops observed, no shop attendant wore a mask. Despite the provision of handwashing facilities and widespread advocacy to minimise COVID-19 infections, the citizenry, especially the youth, demonstrated a poor attitude towards safety measures. Non-adherence to COVID-19 protocols was higher in shops where there was no pressure to conform to the protocols. The findings, amidst the increasing number of infections, suggest that attitude and perceived behavioural control are critical to the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic and, as such, could be good entry points for behavioural interventions.
Monitoring of water and sanitation services within an integrated decentralised monitoring system: experiences from Ghana
Authors: Akanbang Bernard Afiik Akanpabadai
Published: March 2021

Monitoring of water and sanitation services has for a long time been project driven in the developing world. The need for data to inform subnational planning and delivery of quality services has led to the adoption of decentralised integrated monitoring. However, little is known about the strengths and weaknesses of this approach in the monitoring of water and sanitation services. A case study design in which document reviews were combined with 22 key informant interviews held between March and July 2019 in the Upper West Region of Ghana were used to investigate the research problem. Findings show that integration enhanced the processes for validating and using monitoring data and ensuring downward accountability. However, logistical and financial support and inadequate critical reflection is a major challenge under the integration. The paper calls for special attention to be paid to funding and logistics for monitoring water and sanitation services.
Experimental and field verifications of radial gates as flow measurement structures
Authors: Shayan Hossein Khalili , Farhoudi Javad , Vatankhah Alireza
Published: March 2021

Radial gates are common structures in irrigation projects. This paper presents some theory-based equations for explicit estimation of the discharge from a radial gate under free and submerged flow conditions using energy and momentum (E-M) principles. The proposed equations were calibrated using extensive experimental data collected from the literature and this study for three types of radial gate under free and submerged flow conditions. The submergence threshold of radial gates is concluded, based on the concepts of hydraulic jump and the intersection of free and submerged head-discharge curves. The results indicated that the error in estimating the discharge increases under transition ( − 2.5 ≤ Sr% ≤ + 2.5), gate lip (1 < y0/w ≤ 2), and high submerged (yt/y0 ≥ 0.95) flow conditions. However, in these flow limit conditions, the discharge error can be considerably decreased by adjusting the tailwater depth to flow depth just after the gate and using the energy equation for the sections before and after the gate. The efficiency of the proposed methods was evaluated based on the data series from field measurements of radial gates in 29 check structures at irrigation canals in the United States and Iran. The results showed that the discharge could be estimated using the proposed equations in field conditions with acceptable accuracy.
Carbamazepine removal from low-strength municipal wastewater using a combined UASB-MBR treatment system
Authors: Moya-Llamas M. J. , Trapote A. , Prats D.
Published: March 2021

An Upflow Anaerobic Sludge Blanket reactor combined with a two-stage membrane bioreactor were operated for 193 days in order to evaluate the biological removal of carbamazepine (CBZ) from low-strength municipal wastewater. The system worked in three different organic load stages (0.7 ± 0.1 kg COD·m−3·d−1, 0.4 ± 0.1 kg COD·m−3·d−1 and 0.1 ± 0.0 kg COD·m−3·d−1) to assess the impact of the influent OLR on operational parameters such as anaerobic and aerobic sludge retention time (SRT), acidity, volatile fatty acids (VFAs), biomass activity or biogas production. The highest carbamazepine removals were achieved during the anaerobic stage (UASB reactor), reaching averages of 48.9%, 48.0% and 38.2% operating at high, medium and low OLR, respectively. The aerobic treatment (MBR) served as post-treatment, improving the removals, and the global UASB-MBR system reached averages of 70.0%, 59.6% and 49.8% when the influent was at medium and low OLR, respectively. The results demonstrate the potential of combined biological systems on the removal of recalcitrant pharmaceuticals.
Wastewater treatment using plant-derived bioflocculants: green chemistry approach for safe environment
Authors: Das Nilanjana , Ojha Nupur , Mandal Sanjeeb Kumar
Published: March 2021

The rapid expansion of global trade and human activities has resulted in a massive increase in wastewater pollution into the atmosphere. Suspended solids, organic and inorganic particles, dissolved solids, heavy metals, dyes, and other impurities contained in wastewater from various sources are toxic to the atmosphere and pose serious health risks to humans and animals. Coagulation–flocculation technology is commonly used in wastewater treatment to remove cell debris, colloids, and contaminants in a comfortable and effective manner. Flocculants, both organic and inorganic, have long been used in wastewater treatment. However, because of their low performance, non-biodegradability, and associated health risks, their use has been limited. The use of eco-friendly bioflocculants in wastewater treatment has become essential due to the health implications of chemical flocculants. Because of their availability, biodegradability, and protection, plant-derived coagulants/flocculants and plant-based grafted bioflocculants have recently made significant progress in wastewater treatment. This study will undoubtedly provide a clearer understanding of the current state, challenges, and solutions for bioflocculation in wastewater remediation using green materials for the sake of a cleaner climate.
Contribuição para uma agenda de atenção básica de saúde em tempos de pandemia de Covid-19
Authors: Lima Clóvis Ricardo Montenegro de , Gomes Eliane Azevedo , Galvão Maria Cristiane Barbosa , Simões Kátia de Oliveira
Published: March 2021

Esta revisão rápida busca mapear cuidados básicos em nível da atenção primária que podem e devem ser realizados para enfrentar a pandemia de Covid-19. Assim, considera-se como eixos conceituais da revisão a “atenção primária”, a “Covid-19” e os “cuidados básicos de saúde”. Dos 177 artigos encontrados na PUBMED, LILACS e Scielo, retirando-se os duplicados e aplicando-se os critérios de inclusão e exclusão, 24 artigos são selecionados. A partir da análise dos estudos, construiu-se uma agenda de atenção básica à saúde com treze pontos em complexidade crescente: moradia com saneamento, água encanada e comida, educação em saúde e vigilância epidemiológica; mobilização de agentes comunitários, médicos de família, profissionais de saúde bucal, profissionais de saúde mental, garantia de equipamentos de proteção individual para todos eles; gestão flexível do trabalho, diretrizes para grupos de vulneráveis e de maior risco de dano e letalidade, clínicas móveis e uso da telemedicina.
Ambiente de inovação
Authors: Vilhena Suelen Favacho , Miguel Peixe Adriana Maria
Published: March 2021

A inovação tornou-se estratégica para que as organizações mantenham sua competividade. Torna-se indispensável compreender a inovação e o ambiente em que ela ocorre a fim de replicá-lo. O estudo presente objetivou compreender o ambiente ideal para o desenvolvimento da inovação e os elementos que o caracterizam. Para tanto, realizou-se pesquisa bibliográfica onde levantou-se estudos relevantes sobre a matéria e analisou-se os principais conceitos elaborados por diferentes estudiosos. Após análise destes, formou-se um quadro para visualização das ideias chaves sobre o tema abordado. Foi possível identificar que a gestão é responsável pelo estímulo ao processo de inovação, desenvolvendo de forma proposital um ambiente inovador e estabelecendo uma cultura para inovação. Concluiu-se assim, que o ambiente ideal ao desenvolvimento da inovação é aquele em que há uma gestão de inovação e que os principais elementos que caracterizam o ambiente inovador são o estímulo e motivação bem como a cultura de inovação. O estudo não esgota a matéria, mas contribui com conhecimento que pode auxiliar na promoção de um ambiente inovador e com isto promover a competitividade nas organizações.
Governança ambiental em construções de hidrelétricas
Authors: Costa Maria Clarice Alves , Silva Guilherme Giacon da , Souza Dercio Bernardes de , Souza Mariluce Paes de
Published: March 2021

As hidrelétricas, que foi uma grande solução no passado para o desenvolvimento mundial, hoje é motivo de polêmicas em relação aos conflitos provocados nos diversos recursos do ecossistema global. O papel dos diferentes steakholders nem sempre é desempenhado como se espera de uma governança ambiental. Diante desse impasse é que se propôs este estudo com o objetivo de identificar quais os mecanismos de governança ambiental presentes nas construções de usinas hidrelétricas. Para a construção do artigo utilizou-se de análise sistemática de revisão, cuja busca utilizada para os artigos foi a base de dados Scopus, dos quais foram selecionados estudos relacionados a conflitos entre os recursos oriundos das construções de hidrelétricas em vários países. Dentre os diversos mecanismos da governança ambiental, observou-se em alguns países, como Brasil, Polônia, África e Indonésia, a existência de legislações na tentativa de solucionar tais impasses.  No entanto, as ações não se constituem somente de normas, mas, também, verificou-se outros mecanismos como a participação de diversos atores internos e externos que direta ou indiretamente são afetados por esses tipos de projetos.
Riscos, complexidade e incertezas na cadeia de suprimentos
Authors: Lima Junior Idoneu Mitrano , Rodrigues Alba Regina Pereira , Mello José André Villas Boas
Published: March 2021

Este artigo tem como objetivo conduzir uma revisão sistemática de literatura e meta-análise sobre o tema Supply Chain Risk Management (SCRM), no contexto dos países Brasil e China. Para tanto, os autores apoiaram-se na metodologia PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses), seguindo orientações da comunidade científica Cochrane Collaboration. A partir de pesquisa eletrônica nas bases Web of Science, Scopus e SciELO, os resultados open access sumarizados apontaram que há escassez de publicações sobre o tema SCRM no Brasil e na China, com apenas 6 e 8 resultados, respectivamente, no período de 2008 a 2020. Portanto, complementa as revisões sistemáticas publicadas anteriormente, auxiliando novos pesquisadores e traz como diferencial nova abordagem, evidenciando territórios sub representados nas bases analisadas.
Autoavaliação
Authors: Marxreiter Vivian Lely Fasolo , Bresolin Graziela Grando , Freire Patricia de Sá
Published: March 2021

Um dos grandes desafios da atualidade para o sistema educacional, consiste em considerar a participação o aluno durante o processo avaliativo respeitando sua autonomia e controle sobre sua aprendizagem, de modo a tornarem-se agentes da construção de seu próprio conhecimento. Diante deste contexto, chega-se à seguinte pergunta de pesquisa que deu origem a este artigo: Como inovar no proceso de avaliação da aprendizagem das novas gerações utilizando-se da autoavaliação? A partir de uma pesquisa teórica bibliográfica, o objetivo é analisar a autoavaliação como instrumento de inovação no proceso de avaliação da aprendizagem das novas gerações. Os resultados demonstram que a autoavaliação favorece a autonomia e inovação no processo de avaliação, além de atender as necessidades e expectativas de aprendizagem das novas gerações, visto que proporciona autonomia e responsabilidade no processo de aprendizagem e autoanálise de seu desempenho. Proporcionando também subsídio para aplicação da autoavaliação em aula para motivar o aluno jovem durante o processo de ensino, aprendizagem e avaliação. Auxilia tanto no planejamento, acompanhamento, avaliação dos resultados de ensino e aprendizagem. Conclui-se que se faz necessário repensar as concepções e os princípios avaliativos, tendo em vista que a avaliação é peça-chave no acompanhamento dos processos de aprendizagem e autonomia tornando-se uma tarefa didática necessária, permanente para acompanhar o progresso da aprendizagem e na autogestão da prática educacional, para a tomada de decisão e no planejamento didático.
Ultrasound-promoted Organic Synthesis - A Recent Update
Authors: Brahmachari Goutam , Nayek Nayana , Mandal Mullicka , Bhowmick Anindita , Karmakar Indrajit
Published: March 2021

Abstract: Ultrasonication, nowadays, is well-regarded as an effective green tool in implementing
a plethora of organic transformations. The last decade has seen quite useful applications
of ultrasound irradiation in synthetic organic chemistry. Ultrasound has already come
out as a unique technique in green chemistry practice for its inherent properties of minimizing
wastes and reducing energy and time, thereby increasing the product yields with higher purities
under milder reaction conditions. The present review summarizes ultrasound-promoted
useful organic transformations involving both carbon-carbon and carbon-heteroatom (N, O,
S) bond-forming reactions in the absence or presence of varying catalytic systems, reported
during the period 2016-2020.
Targeting Brain-spleen Crosstalk After Stroke: New Insights Into Stroke Pathology and Treatment
Authors: Han Dong , Liu Hang , Gao Yan , Feng Juan
Published: March 2021

The immune response following acute stroke has received significant attention. The
spleen is an important immune organ, and more and more studies have shown that brain-spleen
crosstalk after stroke plays an important role in its development and prognosis. There are many
mechanisms of spleen activation after stroke, including activation of the sympathetic nervous system,
the production of chemokines, and antigen presentation in the damaged brain. The changes in
the spleen after stroke are mainly reflected in morphology, changes to immune cells, and cytokine
production. Once activated, the spleen contracts, undergoes cellular changes, and releases inflammatory
cytokines. Some studies have also shown that spleen cells specifically migrate to the site of
primary brain injury. The size of the spleen is also negatively correlated with infarct volume — the
more serious the spleen atrophy, the larger the infarct volume. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding
of the dynamic response of the spleen to stroke will not only enable understanding of the
evolution of ischemic brain injury but will also enable the identification of potential targets for
stroke treatment. Here, we review recent basic and clinical drug studies on the spleen as a target for
the treatment of stroke, focusing on therapeutic strategies for regulating the splenic response and
inhibiting secondary brain injury.
In situ Analysis of the Fate and Behavior of Inorganic Nanomaterials in
Biological Systems by Synchrotron Radiation X-ray Probe Techniques
Authors: Zhu Shuang , Wang Yaling , Chen Chunying
Published: March 2021

Background:

The comprehensive understanding of nanomaterial behavior in biological systems is essential in accurately modeling and predicting nanomaterial fate and toxicity. Synchrotron radiation (SR) X-ray techniques, based on their ability to study electronic configuration, coordination geometry, or oxidative state of nanomaterials with high sensitivity and spatial resolution, have been introduced to analyze the transformation behavior of nanomaterials in biological systems.

Methods:

Previous research in this field are classified and summarized.

Results:

To start with, a brief introduction of a few widely used SR-based analytical techniques including X-ray absorption spectroscopy, X-ray fluorescence microprobe, scanning transmission X-ray microscopy and circular dichroism spectroscopy is provided. Then, the recent advances of their applications in the analysis of nanomaterial behaviors are elaborated based on different nanomaterial transformation forms such as biodistribution, biomolecule interaction, decomposition, redox reaction, and recrystallization/agglomeration. Finally, a few challenges faced in this field are proposed.

Conclusion:

This review summarizes the application of SR X-ray techniques in analyzing the fate of inorganic nanomaterials in biological systems. We hope it can help the readers to have a general understanding of the applications of SR-based techniques in studying nanomaterial biotransformation and to stimulate more insightful researches in relevant fields.
The Biochemical Parameters and Vitamin D Levels in ICU Patients with
Covid-19: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Abdollahi Hamed , Salehinia Farahnaz , Badeli Mostafa , Karimi Elmira , Gandomkar Hossein , Asadollahi Amin , Sedighiyan Mohsen , Abdolahi Mina
Published: March 2021

Background:

In Covid-19 infection, leukopenia, inflammation, and elevated liver enzymes
are found in most patients. Also, vitamin D deficiency attenuates the immune system and
predisposes a person to being more susceptible to infection. In this context, we aimed to evaluate vitamin
D, electrolytes, complete blood count, liver enzymes, urea, creatinine, albumin, CRP and
ESR levels in patients with Covid-19.

Methods:

We conducted a cross-sectional study on 118 patients with Covid-19 who were hospitalized
from 2020/2/19 to 2020/4/3 in ICU. Serum levels of electrolytes, liver enzymes, blood factors,
urea, creatinine, CRP and ESR, as well as anthropometric parameters and serum vitamin D concentration,
were measured.

Results:

A total of 118 patients (80 male and 38 female) were enrolled in the study (65.05±15.75
years). Only 5.08% of patients had no risk factors and 55.9% had ≥ 2 risk factors. Diabetes
(44.1%) and obesity (23.7%) were more common among patients. Laboratory findings showed that
80.50% of patients had hyponatremia, but other electrolytes including K, Mg, Ca and P were normal
in the majority of participants as well as CBC, Cr, Urea, Alb, ALT and ALKP. The AST concentration
increased in most patients (66.94%). All patients had high levels of inflammatory factors
such as CRP and ESR. The mean of 25-hydroxy-vitamin D levels in participants (25.95 ± 14.56
ng/mL) was lower than its levels in the general population. However, it was not statistically significant
(P= 0.88). A significant negative correlation was found between vitamin D and ALT (P= 0.02,
-0.21) as well as vitamin D and CRP (P= 0.05, -0.17).

Conclusion:

Due to the regulatory role of vitamin D in the immune system and low levels of vitamin
D in Covid-19 infected patients, the evaluation of vitamin D levels and prescribed supplements,
if necessary, is suggested.