bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Longitudinal Changes of COVID-19 Symptoms in Social Media: Observational Study (Preprint)
Authors: Sarabadani Sarah , Baruah Gaurav , Fossat Yan , Jeon Jouhyun
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND

In December 2019, the COVID-19 outbreak started in China and rapidly spread around the world. Many studies have been conducted to understand the clinical characteristics of COVID-19, and recently postinfection sequelae of this disease have begun to be investigated. However, there is little consensus on the longitudinal changes of lasting physical or psychological symptoms from prior COVID-19 infection.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to investigate and analyze public social media data from Reddit to understand the longitudinal impact of COVID-19 symptoms before and after recovery from COVID-19.

METHODS

We collected 22,890 Reddit posts that were generated by 14,401 authors from March 14 to December 16, 2020. Using active learning and intensive manual inspection, 292 (2.03%) active authors, who were infected by COVID-19 and frequently reported disease progress on Reddit, along with their 2213 (9.67%) longitudinal posts, were identified. Machine learning tools to extract biomedical information were applied to identify COVID-19 symptoms mentioned in the Reddit posts. We then examined longitudinal changes in individual physiological and psychological characteristics before and after recovery from COVID-19 infection.

RESULTS

In total, 58 physiological and 3 psychological symptoms were identified in social media before and after recovery from COVID-19 infection. From the analyses, we found that symptoms of patients with COVID-19 lasted 2.5 months. On average, symptoms appeared around a month before recovery and remained for 1.5 months after recovery. Well-known COVID-19 symptoms, such as fever, cough, and chest congestion, appeared relatively earlier in patient journeys and were frequently observed before recovery from COVID-19. Meanwhile, mental discomfort or distress, such as brain fog or stress, fatigue, and manifestations on toes or fingers, were frequently mentioned after recovery and remained as intermediate- and longer-term sequelae.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, we showed the dynamic changes in COVID-19 symptoms during the infection and recovery phases of the disease. Our findings suggest the feasibility of using social media data for investigating disease states and understanding the evolution of the physiological and psychological characteristics of COVID-19 infection over time.
Scrutinizing the Political and Economic Dynamics of China's Distribution of Vaccines in Securitizing Health
Authors: Siregar Christou Imanuel , Napitupulu Theo Gerald
Published: October 2021

In the previous Pandemic of the H5N1 virus, the world is facing an uneven distribution of the vaccine. The irony is that developed countries get more access to vaccines compared to the country with more cases especially the global south countries.  Today, the world is facing another pandemic which is The Covid-19 Pandemic. This virus vaccine has been found by Russia but has not yet gained international trust. According to experts, China is the country with the most potential to produce this vaccine. However, after the vaccine is successfully produced, there is no assurance that the vaccine will evenly be distributed as mandated by WHO. Based on these considerations, the researcher aimed to project the possibilities of vaccine distribution from China to global south countries. Researchers want to analyze the influence of a country's economic capacity and international politics on vaccine distribution, especially with China. To achieve this objective, we will compare the political and economic situation during the H5N1 pandemic and the political and economic situation during the Covid-19 pandemic. Countries used for comparison are Kenya, Yemen, the Philippines, and Indonesia.  These four countries were chosen because it could represent different conditions of political and economic relations. The expected result is that we will get an overview of the distribution of the Covid-19 vaccine when China has started the distribution of the vaccine. We hope that this paper can be a consideration for developing countries' governments to be more sensitive and intense in carrying out vaccine diplomacy.
The Disruption of Personal Protection Equipment Supply Chain: What Can We Learn from Global Value Chain in the Time of Covid-19 Outbreak?
Authors: Andaneswari Annisa Kirana , Rohmadiena Qonitah
Published: October 2021

Abstract The Covid-19 pandemic has disrupted many aspect of life and it has sought to multifaceted crisis in a global scale. With the continued of health crisis caused by this communicable disease, medical device and personal protection equipment become precious commodity for the general public and healthcare professionals. Therefore, there is a growing demand of Personal Protection Equipment especially face mask and N95 respirators in all over countries. Unfortunately, the decade of expansive trade had been distorted by pandemic of Covid-19 that made the medical supplies cannot meet the global demand. Prior to the outbreak of covid-19, there was an interdependency of medical supplies trade through Global Value Chain. GVC had made the production of medical supplies are effectively fragmented and globally integrated. This article tries to examine the architecture of global medical supply through the lens of Global Value Chain (GVC) before and after pandemic. Using a qualitative methodology this article tries to provide analytical descriptive on global medical devices fragmentation. We use the full UN Comtrade data from 1990 to 2018, Foreign Direct Investment Data from OECD and mass media news to track the shifting of medical devices production during pandemic. The main results indicate that the worsening situation of Pandemic Covid-19 has brought state actors and non-state actors to create new pattern in GVC to provide medical devices worldwide. Finally, this article aims to cast a light on the importance of global cooperation and trade interdependency during crisis.
Bajtín, literatura comparada y sociocrítica feminista
Authors: Malcuzynski M.-Pierrette
Published: October 2021

En este trabajo se hace un intento de actualizar la voz de la mujer, sin caer en la trampa de las diversas configuraciones de polarización binaria, proponiendo trabajar la problemática del sujeto desde una óptica específicamente sociocrítica. La elaboración de una teoría sociocrítica feminista gira en torno de una hermenéutica dialógica que permite inscribir la pluralidad de distintas voces sin reconciliar las mismas en una sola, única identidad monolítica sino, al contrario, valora las especificidades de sus funciones respectivas.
The Fundamental Re-writing: Religious Texts and Contemporary Narrative. Gore Vidal's Live from Golgotha, Salman Rushdie's The Satanic Verses, José Saramago's O Evangelho Segundo Jesus Cristo
Authors: Costa Horácio
Published: October 2021

In this essay Horácio Costa focused on three novels that have parody, the literary mechanism par excellence to enhance this uneven man-God dialogue, this individual-institutional interchange. With the private ritual of reading substituting many public rituals and the progressive transfer of authority to individuals from institutions, cleaning up the mechanics of religion through novels like Live from Golgotha, The Satanic Verses and O Evangelho Segundo Jesus Cristo point to the reader fictional and actual ways of wondering on the space that the religious narrations occupied in the forging of civilization and of themselves.
Budhi Ganga of Hastinapur: éclat of Ancient India
Authors: Bharati Priyank
Published: October 2021

Abstract: The old route of Ganges is known as Budhi Ganga, Burhganga or Boorh Ganga . Here the word Budhi might be denoted for the old bed of Ganges. In the regime of Nichakshu, the flood in the Ganges washed off the entire glory of the Kuru capital Hastinapur. It can only be imagined that how terrible the flood would be that the Ganges would have to change its flow. Afterward, Nichakshu shifted their capital from Hastinapur to Kaushambi (near Allahabad). The Timur invasion in India also shows the track of Budhi Ganga. In the time of Modern India, British Domination shows the route of Budhi Ganga in the Land settlement documents. The entire route of Budhi Ganga is crepuscular in Independent India. But in honor of the old bed of Ganges, even today a grand fair is organized on the land of Hastinapur on Kartik Purnima. In the present paper, we put the light on the old route of the Ganges from Saifpur Firozpur to Hastinapur. Keywords: Mahabharata, Ganga, Budhi Ganga, Hastinapur, Firozpur
Design, Structural and Thermal Analysis of Piston by Using Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Gupta Pankaj Kumar
Published: October 2021

Abstract: In this project, it was chosen to investigate a specific piston design and its maximum gas pressure capabilities. The first aim for this project is to create a piston model using the solid modelling software CATIA V5. The geometry will be meshed and analyzed using the ANSYS software. A thorough literature search was conducted for the examination of piston input circumstances and the analytical process. High combustion gas pressures operate as mechanical loads, causing substantial strains in the piston's critical area. For various loading situations, such as maximum gas pressure load, a detailed static structural analysis is carried out. To choose the best material, a comparative research is carried out. Relative examination is never really dominated material. A cylinder is a mechanical part found in an assortment of cycles like pneumatic chambers. Responding siphons, responding motors and gas blowers. It is the upward development inside a chamber that is put away gastight by cylinder .In the auto business, it is found that the cylinder is the most fundamental part of the motor, and that it is presented to serious mechanical and warm loads. Warm burdens are initiated in the cylinder because of the exceptionally high temperature differential between the cylinder crown and the cooling displays. The cylinders are regularly built of aluminum due to its lightweight and heat conductivity. Be that as it may, as a result of its low hot strength and high development coefficient, it isn't suggested for use in high-temperature applications. The reason for a section bar or potentially an associating bar in a motor is to move power from growing gas to the barrel shaped shaft through an interfacing bar and additionally segment pole. To pack or remove the liquid put away in the chamber, the siphons turned around the capacity of the cylinder and communicate power from driving rod to it. In the initial step the primary examination of a common cylinder developed of the aluminum composite is concentrated in this exploration. The subsequent advance is to direct an investigation on a cylinder developed of Aluminum and Cast iron. Lightweight, minimal expense, primarily and thermally safe materials ought to be used in the development of pistons in the third step Validation of investigation result with contrasting the traditional material.
Effects of ZAI (PIT PLANTING) and Different Manure Rates on the Growth and Yield of Sorghum
Authors: Mustapha Yakaka Kundili
Published: October 2021

Abstract: A field experiment was conducted at Jimtilo village along Maiduguri Jos/Kano road geographically located latitude 11o 501 5811North12o 561 2311 East above sea level. The experiment was conducted to determine the effect of Zai (pit planting) and different manure rate on growth and yield of sorghum. Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) replicated 3 times and consisted of 4 levels of treatments of 0, 1 ton/ha, 2ton/ha and 3ton/ha of manure (cowdung). The result of the experiment indicated that there was significant (p< 0.05) difference among and between treatments used. It was further observed that 3ton/ha manure applied gave significantly (p< 0.05) higher yield and performed better than all other treatments. The control however,gave the least value as all other treatments performed better than the control. It is therefore recommended that the application of 3 ton/ha should be adopted by farmers practicing pit planting or reclaiming arid land for sustainable agricultural production. Keywords: zai (pit planting), manure, cow dung, growth and yield.
Comparative Evaluation of Crack Width for Reinforced Concrete Bridge Deck
Authors: Tamrakar Shivank
Published: October 2021

Abstract: Cracking in reinforced concrete bridge decks is a massively concern in the India. Many concrete bridge decks, inobservant to the age of construction, have shown different levels and patterns of cracking. Not only does cracking of bridge decks weaken the bridge infrastructure, but also allows the inflow of corrosive agents into the reinforcement. In this study, the crack width evaluation of RC bridge deck of span of 5 m. and 9 m. is based on equations given by IRS Concrete Bridge Code 1997 for different cases like- the effect of depth variation, reinforcement diameter, clear cover, variation in live load moment, spacing of tension reinforcement and different no. of tension reinforcement bar to constant width for the same crosssection. This study concluded that crack width increases with increase in clear cover, variation in live load moment and spacing of tension reinforcement while it decreases with increase in reinforcement diameter, depth of the bridge deck and number of reinforced bars and percentage change evaluation of different parameter of 5m and 9m span bridge deck. Keyword: Crack Width, Cracking, Bridge Deck Slab, Crack Spacing.
Generación de mapas de contaminación por material particulado mediante sistemas embebidos: caso de estudio en Cúcuta (Colombia)
Authors:   Universidad Francisco de Paula Santander, Cúcuta, Colombia, Eslava Pedraza Jeison Eduardo , Martínez Sarmiento Franyer Adrian ,   Universidad Francisco de Paula Santander, Cúcuta, Colombia, Soto Vergel Ángelo Joseph ,   Universidad Francisco de Paula Santander, Cúcuta, Colombia, Vera Rozo Edwin José ,   Universidad Francisco de Paula Santander, Cúcuta, Colombia, Guevara Ibarra Dinael ,   Universidad Francisco de Paula Santander, Cúcuta, Colombia
Published: October 2021

En la actualidad, la contaminación ambiental es un problema de alto impacto en tanto a múltiples contaminantes, y principalmente el material particulado, pueden llegar a ser dañinos para la salud e incluso mortales; debido a ello, los principales entes gubernamentales han establecido estrategias para su monitoreo y control mediante estaciones fijas. Por este motivo, se desarrolla la caracterización del material particulado en el barrio Trigal del Norte de la ciudad de Cúcuta (Colombia), mediante un sistema móvil adaptable a múltiples estructuras, que incorpora una interfaz gráfica conectada a la red para el bosquejo de mapas de intensidad de contaminantes. El método propuesto tiene un alcance exploratorio/descriptivo, con un enfoque cualitativo y cuantitativo, y es aplicado mediante un diseño experimental que se basa en la identificación y selección de tecnologías, el diseño y ensamble del circuito electrónico y el desarrollo del software de integración tecnológica. Como resultado, se obtuvo un sistema compacto que presenta mapas de intensidad y gráficas de comportamiento, observándose que de los datos obtenidos del proceso de medición se evidencian niveles de contaminación por material particulado, PM2.5 y PM10, con valores de 19.95 μg/m3 y 21.61 μg/m3 , respectivamente, que cumplen con los niveles máximos permisibles según la Resolución 2254 del Ministerio de Ambiente y Desarrollo Sostenible de Colombia.
Effects of COVID-19 on the Honduras National Police and lessons learned regarding police officer well-being and occupational stress
Authors:   RTI International, Research Triangle Park, EE UU, Pitts Wayne J. , Inkpen Christopher S. ,   RTI International, Research Triangle Park, EE UU, Ovalle Romero Raquel Margarita ,   RTI International, Ciudad Guatemala, Guatemala, García Iraheta Jesús Guillermo ,   RTI International, Tegucigalpa, Honduras, Ventura Rizzo Omar Alejandro ,   RTI International, San Pedro Sula, Honduras, Alay Lemus Alejandro José ,   RTI International, Ciudad Guatemala, Guatemala
Published: October 2021

Background: In early 2020 a global pandemic linked to a coronavirus, known as COVID-19, quickly spread and Government authorities scrambled to respond implementing travel restrictions, social distancing, testing, and quarantines. By early March, the Republic of Honduras implemented strict protocols, requiring greater attention from the police in enforcing the mobility restrictions and working with Government and public health officials to contain spread of COVID-19. Purpose: The purpose of this formative research is to better understand the impacts of COVID-19 on the Honduras National Police with particular attention to officer well-being and occupational stress. Methods: Using mixed methods, this article reports the descriptive results of 28 semi-structured qualitative interviews with high-level command staff from the Honduran National Police (HNP) and a representative sample of 143 patrol officers drawn from police districts in Tegucigalpa, San Pedro Sula, La Ceiba, and La Lima. Results: Policing activities related to crime prevention, investigations, and human resource assignments have shifted in Honduras due to COVID-19. Few police protocols have been updated to reflect this new work environment and steps to protect the well-being of police officers have been inconsistent, with elevated stress levels among officers. Limitations: This case study of police in Honduras is based on a small but representative sample of line officers. The findings of this study are most useful to neighbouring countries in Central America, though there are findings relevant to all police agencies. Conclusions: Our review and analysis have immediate implications for police agencies working to address planning and training deficiencies during the current COVID-19 outbreak while also underscoring critical considerations to prepare for the next worldwide health crisis.
The Indian Republic in the global energy markets
Authors: Gusakov Nikolay P. , Konovalova Yulia A. , Reshad Sayar Akhmad
Published: October 2021

Energy is an integral part of the economic security of any state, and it is more complex, the lower the degree of provision with its mineral resources and the higher the number of the population living in the country. Being the undisputed world leaders in terms of population (1.4 billion people and 1.3 billion people), China and India are concerned about ensuring the energy security of their national economies. According to the latest forecasts formed by the International Energy Agency, by 2040, these two countries will become world leaders in terms of imports of mineral products (in this case: crude oil and natural gas). China is the world leader in exporting goods; India is implementing an economic and industrial policy to turn the country into a world manufacturing hub. In this regard, providing countries with energy resources is one of the most critical tasks. At the same time, a significant problem is a dependence on regular supplies of raw materials and world prices for energy carriers. Respectively, countries should pursue a policy of diversification of suppliers of mineral products. The subject of this study is the Republic of India and its position in the world energy markets; issues of energy security and energy policy are also highlighted.
Group averaging and the Gini deviation
Authors: Pavlov Oleg I. , Pavlova Olga Yu.
Published: October 2021

It is known that partitioning a society into groups with subsequent averaging in each group decreases the Gini coefficient. The resulting Lorenz function is piecewise linear. This study deals with a natural question: by how much the Gini coefficient could decrease when passing to a piecewise linear Lorenz function? Obtained results are quite illustrative (since they are expressed in terms of the geometric parameters of the polygon Lorenz curve, such as the lengths of its segments and the angles between successive segments) upper bound estimates for the maximum possible change in the Gini coefficient with a restriction on the group shares, or on the difference between the averaged values of the attribute for consecutive groups. It is shown that there exist Lorenz curves with the Gini coefficient arbitrarily close to one, and at the same time with the Gini coefficient of the averaged society arbitrarily close to zero.
Soil carbon, microbial biomass carbon, soil health and productivity of toria (Brassica campestris L.) crop as affected by the application of organic manures
Authors:   Department of Soil Science, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat-785 013, India, Gogoi B. , Kalita B. ,   Regional Agricultural Research Station, Shillongani, Assam Agricultural University, Nagaon-782 002, India, Bhupenchandra I. ,   ICAR-KVK Tamenglong, ICAR-RC for NEH Region, Imphal-795 004, India, Sutradhar P. ,   Department of Agronomy, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat-785 013, India, Sharma K.K. ,   Department of Agronomy, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat-785 013, India
Published: October 2021

Aim: To investigate the effect of different organic manures on the performance of toria crop and to understand their impact on the soil properties and availability of nutrients in acidic sandy loam soil. Methodology: Three-year fixed plot study was conducted with 7 treatments viz., T1: control, T2: recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF), T3: cow dung manure @ 5 t ha-1, T4: pig dung manure @ 5 t ha-1, T5: goat dung manure @ 5 t ha-1, T6: farm yard manure (FYM) @ 5 t ha-1, and T7: vermicompost @ 5 t ha-1 replicating 3 times in a complete randomized block design. Data were collected and analysed following the standard procedures. The yield and yield attributing parameters of toria and the soil properties such as soil pH, organic carbon, microbial biomass carbon and available NPK were studied. Results: Application of different organic manures significantly affected the plant height, number of primary branches per plant, number of siliquae per branch, number of seeds siliqua and 1000-seed weight of toria crop. Addition of organic manure significantly enhanced the soil organic carbon, microbial biomass carbon and available NPK in the soil over initial, except soil pH. The cost of cultivation, gross return and net return varied from 10.50 ×103 to 23.10 ×103, 15.00 ×103 to 35.10 ×103 and 4.46 ×103 to 19.96 ×103 Rs. ha-1, respectively. The B:C ratio varied in the order of goat dung manure > cow dung manure >RDF >FYM > pig dung manure > vermicompost > control treatment. Interpretation: To achieve maximum performance with nourishment of soil quality and health, application of vermicompost was confirmed to be the best over other organic sources of nutrients primarily due to enhancement in C and N status and an increase in microbial activities in soil.
Micronuclei and other nuclear abnormalities in phorate exposed fish, Channa punctatus
Authors:   Department of Zoology, Environmental Toxicology and Bioremediation Laboratory, University of Lucknow, Lucknow-226 007, India, Trivedi S.P. , Ratn A. ,   Department of Zoology, Environmental Toxicology and Bioremediation Laboratory, University of Lucknow, Lucknow-226 007, India, Awasthi Y. ,   Department of Zoology, Environmental Toxicology and Bioremediation Laboratory, University of Lucknow, Lucknow-226 007, India, Gupta N. ,   C.S.J.M. University, Kanpur-208 024, India, Kumar M. ,   Department of Zoology, Environmental Toxicology and Bioremediation Laboratory, University of Lucknow, Lucknow-226 007, India, Trivedi A. ,   Department of Animal Science, M.J.P. Rohilkhand University, Bareilly-243 006, India
Published: October 2021

Aim: The present study aims to establish morphology-based nuclear abnormalities (NAs) including micronuclei (MN) as effective and sensitive genotoxic endpoint biomarkers in fish against the sub-lethal exposure of phorate. Methodology: Fish, Channa punctatus (35 ± 3.0 g; 14.5 ± 1.0 cm) were randomly exposed in two sets, treated group 1 and 2 (0.0375 mg l-1 and 0.075 mg l-1 of phorate, respectively) along with a simultaneous control (0 mg l-1). The blood was sampled after 30 days. Results: A significant (p < 0.05) induction in reactive oxygen species (ROS) coupled with elevated frequency of blood cells showing micronuclei along with the gross appearance of notched nuclei, curved nuclei, blebbed nuclei, kidney-shaped nuclei, V-shaped nuclei, nuclear buds, nucleoplasmic bridges, dumbbell nuclei, and condensed/rounded nuclei were recorded in a dose-dependent manner. Interpretation: A significant (p < 0.05) induction in reactive oxygen species (ROS) coupled with elevated frequency of blood cells showing micronuclei along with the gross appearance of notched nuclei, curved nuclei, blebbed nuclei, kidney-shaped nuclei, V-shaped nuclei, nuclear buds, nucleoplasmic bridges, dumbbell nuclei, and condensed/rounded nuclei were recorded in a dose-dependent manner.
Differential effects of postharvest application of ethylene inhibitors on guava stored under ambient conditions
Authors:   Division of Postharvest Technology & Agricultural Engineering, ICAR- IARI outreach programme centre ICAR-IIHR, Bangalore-560 089, India, Sachin A.J. , Sudhakar Rao D.V. ,   Division of Postharvest Technology & Agricultural Engineering, ICAR- Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bangalore- 560 089, India, Ranjitha K. ,   Division of Postharvest Technology & Agricultural Engineering, ICAR- Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bangalore- 560 089, India, Vasugi C. ,   Division of Fruit Crops, ICAR- Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bangalore-560 089, India, Narayana C.K. ,   Division of Postharvest Technology & Agricultural Engineering, ICAR- Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bangalore- 560 089, India, Ravishankar K. ,   Division of Basic Sciences, ICAR- Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bangalore-560 089, India
Published: October 2021

Aim: To assess the efficiency of ethylene synthesis and action inhibitors on postharvest shelf life of guava fruits under ambient conditions. Methodology: Mature green guava fruits (P. guajava L. cv. Arka Mridula) were harvested and treated with ethylene inhibitors. Various physiological, physical and nutritional changes of the treated fruits in comparison with untreated ones were monitored during ambient temperature storage. Multivariate analysis approach was used for interpreting the data on quality changes during storage. Results: Significant positive correlation (p<0.01) was observed among rates of ethylene production, respiration, ripening and Hunter’s a* value. Biplot from principal component analysis of eleven parameters showed that 1-MCP (500 ppb) treated fruits were grouped together with freshly harvested fruits throughout storage period, and proved superior over other treatments in delaying ripening and quality maintenance. Seven days stored 3.0 mM Salicylic acid and 1.5 mM Sodium nitroprusside treated fruits were grouped together with 5 days stored control fruits, suggesting their effectiveness in extending the shelf life by additional two days. Interpretation: Postharvest application of 1-MCP on guava fruits can extend the shelf life by four days when compared with control. Even PCA indicated that the study of major ripening attributes (L*, a*, b*, Hue, texture, acidity, ethylene rate and respiration rate) was quite sufficient to know the ripening status of the fruits.
Nefroprotective Effect of Gynura procumbens Extract Against Paracetamol Toxicity in Rats
Authors: Ishak Pertiwi , Kabo Peter , Yusrini Djabir Yulia
Published: October 2021

ABSTRACT

Excessive doses of paracetamol have the potential to cause acute kidney injury and even death. Gynura procumbens has been traditionally used as folk-medicine for kidney disease. This study aimed to examine the nephroprotective effect of Gynura procumbens leaf extract against paracetamol-induced nephrotoxicity in rats. Twenty-five male wistar rats (150-200 g) were divided into 5 groups. Healthy control group, placebo group, and 3 extract treatment groups that received either 100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg or 300 mg/kg dose. The placebo (sodium carboxymethyl cellulose) or extract was given 4 consecutive days prior to paracetamol (2400 mg/kg) administration on day 5. Blood samples were withdrawn before treatment initiated (day 0), after treatment before paracetamol administration (day 5) and 24-hour after paracetamol administration (day 6). Blood samples were analyzed to obtain urea and creatinine levels. In addition, histopathological analysis was performed on the renal tissue.  Paracetamol administration was shown to significantly increase the urea and creatinine levels, and the extract at 300 mg/kg dose was able to significantly prevent the elevation of the renal biomarkers. The histopathological analysis also revealed a significant reduction in renal histopathological injury in 300 mg/kg extract group. It can be concluded that the ethanolic extract of the Gynura procumbens at a dose of 300 mg/kg has a good protective effect on kidney function and tissue structure.

Key words: Gynura procumbens, nephroprotective, paracetamol
Financial literacy in Italy: Empirical evidence and theoretical proposals
Authors: Stella Gian Paolo , Filotto Umberto , Cervellati Enrico Maria
Published: October 2021

The purpose of this book is to analyse financial literacy from theoretical and empirical points of view, with a particular focus on the evidence related to Italy. This work is motivated by the increasing complexity of financial instruments as well as by the evolution of individuals’ needs that result in the need to implement measures to increase individuals’ financial literacy. Since financial literacy level seems to determine an individual’s position in the financial system relative to other economic agents, financial illiteracy or the lack of financial knowledge and skills can lead to lifelong financial hardships (Lusardi & Mitchell, 2011). In this regard, a sufficient degree of financial literacy is a necessary condition for financial welfare (Lusardi & Mitchell, 2011).
Valor del índice proteína/creatinina como marcador de proteinuria en el diagnóstico de preeclampsia
Authors: A Traferri , M A Roggero , A Del Pozo , M Orias
Published: October 2021

NTRODUCCIÓN: La proteinuria es un criterio diagnóstico para la preeclampsiaOBJETIVO: Determinar la precisión diagnóstica de la relación proteína creatinina (RPC) en muestraaislada de orina, en comparación con la recolección de orina de 24hs.MATERIAL Y MÉTODO: Estudio observacional, retrospectivo y analítico. La muestra evaluada estuvoconstituida por embarazadas, entre 18 a 45 años de edad, con una edad gestacional > a 20 semanas, contensión arterial ≥140mmHg / ≥90mmHg, que presentaron muestras de proteinuria de 24 horas y de orinaaislada.RESULTADOS: La sensibilidad de la muestra RPC de 0.3 mg/dl para una proteinuria mayor a 300mg/dlfue del 67,9% con una especificidad del 91,2%. El VPP fue de del 77,6% y el VPN fue del 86,4%. El áreabajo la curva fue de 0,84 (p ≤ 0,05). Se encontró una moderada correlación entre RPC y proteinuria de 24hsen pacientes con preeclampsia (r=0,663). El punto de corte que maximizó la prueba fue de 0.20CONCLUSIONES: La RPC resulta ser un método aceptable en la evaluación inicial de pacientesembarazadas con sospecha de preeclampsia. Como la sensibilidad de la prueba es moderada, dejaría a unimportante número de pacientes sin diagnóstico. Como prueba de screening, el punto de corte de la RPCdebería ser 0.20.
Tratamiento no quirúrgico de la osteonecrosis relacionada a medicación asociada a un implante dental
Authors: V Flück , C A Giacco , M S Gandolfo , L I Adler
Published: October 2021

La osteonecrosis de los maxilares es un serio efecto adverso asociado a medicamentos antirresortivosespecialmente en pacientes con osteoporosis y neoplasias malignas. En este manuscrito, presentamos uncaso clínico de una mujer caucásica de 56 años, con antecedentes de osteoporosis, medicada conbisfosfonatos, que cursó con osteonecrosis del maxilar inferior en relación con un implante dental. Eltratamiento se basó fundamentalmente en la administración de terapia antibiótica, enjuagues bucalesantibacterianos y en el tratamiento periodontal. El objetivo de ésta presentación fue comunicar un caso deosteonecrosis de la mandíbula alrededor de un implante dental relacionado con el uso de ácido ibandrónicotratado con éxito mediante un tratamiento conservador que incluía la aplicación local de minociclina.
CML8 and GAD4 function in (Z)–3–hexenol–mediated defense by regulating GABA accumulation in Arabidopsis
Authors: Jiao Chunyang , Guo zhujuan , Li Shuwen , Zuo Yixin , Gong Junqing , Shen Yingbai
Published: October 2021

(Z)–3–hexenol, a small gaseous molecule, is produced in plants under
biotic stress and induces defense responses in neighboring plants.
However, the research on little is known about how (Z)–3–hexenol
induces plant defense–related signaling. In this study, we uncovered
how (Z)–3–hexenol treatment enhances insect resistance by increasing
γ–aminobutyric acid (GABA) contents in Arabidopsis thaliana leaves.
First, (Z)–3–hexenol increases the intracellular content of the
signaling molecule calcium in Arabidopsis leaf mesophyll cells. Both
intracellular and extracellular calcium stores regulate these changes in
calcium content. Then, CML8 and GAD4 are involved in calcium signaling.
Yeast two–hybrid assays, firefly luciferase complementation imaging,
and GST pull–down assays demonstrated that CML8 interacts with GAD4.
Finally, (Z)–3–hexenol treatment increased the GABA contents in
Arabidopsis leaves, thus increasing plant resistance to the insect
Plutella xylostella. This study revealed the mechanism of activating
plant insect defense induced by (Z)–3–hexenol, which is of great
significance for the study of volatiles as biological control measures.
Ecological Security Evaluation and Spatial-temporal Evolution Characteristics of Natural Resources Based on Wind-Driven Optimization Algorithm------A case study of Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area
Authors: Ke Xiaoling , shi wei , Yang Chang , Guo Haixiang , Mougharbel Amal
Published: October 2021

As a complex system, the urban natural resources system comprises water,
land, forest, and air resources. Natural resources are the essential
elements of economic and social development and the source of
sustainable urban development. However, there are few articles which
regard different natural resources as a comprehensive system to
evaluate. This study aimed to reveal the patterns of natural resources
and highlight the impact of natural resource subsystem. Firstly, this
study establishes the ecological security evaluation system of natural
resources based on the “Driving Force-Pressure-State-Response” model.
Secondly, we use the Wind-Driven Optimization algorithm to optimize the
Projection Pursuit model to calculate the value of ecological security
level and the comprehensive value of ecological security in
Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (2013-2018). The temporal
characteristics and spatial layout of natural resources ecological
security, the impact of mechanism of water, land, forest, and air
resources subsystems on natural resources ecological security were
assessed. The results shows that the ecological security level of
natural resources in nine cities of Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater
Bay Area is on the rise as a whole from 2013 to 2018. However, the
ecological security level in the central region of the Greater Bay Area
is low, which is directly related to the severe environmental pollution
of its water and air resources. The results are basically consistent
with the actual situation, which can provide a reference for the
ecological security evaluation of natural resources in other urban
agglomerations.
Erectile dysfunction in young men
Authors: Diamandis Dr. Carolina , Smith Steven , Tudor Adrian , Seideman David
Published: October 2021

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is what physicians call the inadequate or
absent stiffening of the penis despite emotional sexual arousal. More
and more men are suffering from such erectile issues. The better we
understand the involvement of the central nervous system in various
sexual functions, the more we will also understand its determining role
in these disorders. Erectile dysfunction are an increasing health
problem because of the aging of the population and new effects through
readily available pornography (negative effects of chronic
over-stimulation) which have an impact on young men.
(Too) long nineteenth century: The critique of linear time and evolution
Authors: Katunaric Vjeran
Published: October 2021

Linear time is a standard term in many sciences and is important in the study
of evolution. In this paper, several critical arguments are presented in
terms of the notion of linear time from quantum mechanics over cosmological
anthropic principle to the sociology of time with special reference to
contemporary societies (Gurvitch). In considering the causes of contemporary
crises that jeopardize liberal capitalism and democracy, and threaten the
survival of humanity, the concept of ?long nineteenth century? whose
features are recycled in a system of inequality and conflict on the social
class-nation-empire line was proposed as an explanatory framework. As an
alternative concept of time, a triple spiral has been proposed whose traces
can be recognized in Simmel, and in an explicit way in works of art. Further
discussion of the applicability of nonlinear time in the theory of society
would probably be difficult, as it implies a paradigmatic shift from new
geocentrism and the anthropic principle to the cosmic relations of human
society, which can be discerned more in hermeneutic than analytical and
critical approaches to society.
Break-up of the Yugoslav political elite, 1962-1972
Authors: Flere Sergej , Rutar Tibor
Published: October 2021

The break-up of the Yugoslav communist elite, which came about in the period
1962-1972, is considered. The break-up came about under the elite?s
disappointment due to the failure to achieve economic objectives it set for
itself, bringing about internal dubiety and mutual suspicion, the political
system moving towards consociation also contributed to fracturing. However,
this is not sufficient as explanation. Cultural elites also contributed in
the same direction. Economic growth was significant, considering the entire
period 1945-1991, but it was always clouded by imbalances. Certain issues
and discussions were indicative of the break-up. Political unity and
communism was gradually replaced as objective by ?resolving the national
question?, also a legitimate Marxist concern. It can be considered that by
the break-up, a normalization of elite pattern came about, comparable to
elites in the greatest number of European states, although the elites kept
on being ?ideocratic?. Whereas elites may have become ?normal?, the
functioning of the political system became ever more difficult. The
ascending national communist elites never undertook steps at the direct
dissolution of the Yugoslav state, although they entered into ceaseless
disputes and finally paved the way to ethnic entrepreneurs and
counter-elites to implement the dissolution. By the elite break-up a
relation between elite and nation similar to the one existing in the great
majority of European countries was achieved.
The importance of multidisciplinary cooperation and transdisciplinary research for overcoming the crisis of social humanities
Authors: Mitrovic Ljubisa
Published: October 2021

We live in an age of the rise of scientific positivism, methodological
particularism, and disciplinary chaos. We are witnessing the process of
fragmentation of the scientific system, partialization, dehumanization and
marginalization of the social sciences. The paper discusses the importance
of multidisciplinary and transdisciplinary research for overcoming the
crisis of social sciences and humanities. In this context, special emphasis
is placed on the importance of improving the practice of integrated studies
in the education system at universities; and especially the importance of
cooperation between natural / biomedical research and humanities (genetics,
ecology, anthropology, demography, philosophy, ethics, history, psychology
and sociology).
Genetic Studies of Metabolomics Change After a Liquid Meal Illuminate Novel Pathways for Glucose and Lipid Metabolism
Authors: Li-Gao Ruifang , Hughes David A. , van Klinken Jan B. , de Mutsert Renée , Rosendaal Frits R. , Mook-Kanamori Dennis O. , Timpson Nicholas J. , Willems van Dijk Ko
Published: October 2021

Humans spend the greater part of the day in a postprandial state. However, the genetic basis of postprandial blood measures is relatively uncharted territory. We examined the genetics of variation in concentrations of postprandial metabolites (t = 150 min) in response to a liquid mixed meal through genome-wide association studies (GWAS) performed in the Netherlands Epidemiology of Obesity (NEO) study (n = 5,705). The metabolite response GWAS identified an association between glucose change and rs10830963:G in the melatonin receptor 1B (β [SE] −0.23 [0.03], P = 2.15 × 10−19). In addition, the ANKRD55 locus led by rs458741:C showed strong associations with extremely large VLDL (XXLVLDL) particle response (XXLVLDL total cholesterol: β [SE] 0.17 [0.03], P = 5.76 × 10−10; XXLVLDL cholesterol ester: β [SE] 0.17 [0.03], P = 9.74 × 10−10), which also revealed strong associations with body composition and diabetes in the UK Biobank (P < 5 × 10−8). Furthermore, the associations between XXLVLDL response and insulinogenic index, HOMA-β, Matsuda insulin sensitivity index, and HbA1c in the NEO study implied the role of chylomicron synthesis in diabetes (with false discovery rate–corrected q <0.05). To conclude, genetic studies of metabolomics change after a liquid meal illuminate novel pathways for glucose and lipid metabolism. Further studies are warranted to corroborate biological pathways of the ANKRD55 locus underlying diabetes.
Androgens and Development of Posttransplantation Diabetes Mellitus in Male Kidney Transplant Recipients: A Post Hoc Analysis of a Prospective Study
Authors: Stam Suzanne P. , Sokooti Sara , Eisenga Michele F. , van der Veen Anna , Gomes-Neto António W. , van Dijk Peter R. , van Zanden Jelmer J. , Vos Michel J. , Kema Ido P. , van Beek André P. , Bakker Stephan J.L. ,   TransplantLines Investigators
Published: October 2021

OBJECTIVE

Posttransplantation diabetes mellitus (PTDM) effects up to 30% of all kidney transplant recipients (KTR). Recent studies in mice found that sufficient androgen levels are necessary for β-cell health and adequate insulin secretion. This raises the question whether a similar relationship might be present in KTR. Hence, we hypothesized that dihydrotestosterone and testosterone are associated with the development of PTDM in male KTR.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We conducted a post hoc analyses of a prospective single-center cohort study including adult male KTR with a functioning graft ≥1 year posttransplantation. Androgen levels were assessed by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Development of PTDM was defined according to the American Diabetes Association’s criteria.

RESULTS

We included 243 male KTR (aged 51 ± 14 years), with a median dihydrotestosterone 0.9 (0.7–1.3) nmol/L and testosterone of 12.1 (9.4–15.8) nmol/L. During 5.3 (3.7–5.8) years of follow-up, 28 KTR (11.5%) developed PTDM. A clear association was observed, as 15 (19%), 10 (12%), and 3 (4%) male KTR developed PTDM in the respective tertiles of dihydrotestosterone (P = 0.008). In Cox regression analyses, both dihydrotestosterone and testosterone as continuous variables were inversely associated with the risk to development PTDM, independent of glucose and HbA1c (hazard ratio [HR] 0.31 [95% CI 0.16–0.59], P < 0.001; and HR 0.32 [95% CI 0.15–0.68], P = 0.003, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that low androgen levels are a novel potential modifiable risk factor for the development of PTDM in male KTR.
Unexpected Anesthetic Circuit Leak Attributed to Improper Use of a Tube Holder: A Case Report
Authors: Kishimoto Naotaka , Otsuka Akiko , Tsurumaki Tatsuru , Seo Kenji
Published: October 2021

Leaks involving the anesthesia circuit can cause significant complications including hypoxia and hypoventilation. We present a case of a circuit leak caused by damage to the corrugated tubing attributed to improper use of the tube holder. A 58-year-old male was scheduled for resection of a palatal tumor under an intubated general anesthetic. After successful nasotracheal intubation, the anesthesiologist inserted the corrugated tubing of the anesthetic circuit into the tube holder. A leaking sound was heard and a tear in the corrugated tubing was promptly discovered. The corrugated tubing of the anesthetic circuit presumably tore because it was inserted into the groove of the tube holder at an inappropriate angle with excessive force. Anesthesiologists should be aware of potential leaks if the anesthesia circuit is damaged, which may be caused by improper use of tube holders.
Anesthetic Management of a Patient With Citrullinemia Type I During Dental Treatment
Authors: Shibuya Makiko , Iwamoto Rie , Kimura Yukifumi , Kamekura Nobuhito , Fujisawa Toshiaki
Published: October 2021

We report a case involving intravenous sedation for third molar extractions in a 32-year-old man with citrullinemia type I (CTLN1), a genetic disorder that affects the urea cycle. The patient was diagnosed with CTLN1 after he exhibited seizures soon after birth and was intellectually disabled because of persistent hyperammonemia, although his recent serum ammonia levels were fairly well controlled. We planned to minimize his preoperative fasting, continue his routine oral medications, and monitor his serum ammonia levels at least twice. Sedation with midazolam and a propofol infusion was planned to suppress his gag reflex and reduce protein hypercatabolism due to stress. Epinephrine-containing local anesthetics, which enhance protein catabolism, were avoided, replaced by plain lidocaine for blocks and prilocaine with felypressin for infiltration anesthesia. No significant elevation in ammonia levels was observed. In patients with CTLN1, sedation can be useful for preventing hyperammonemia. Patients who develop symptomatic hyperammonemia may require urgent/emergent treatment involving other medical specialists. Therefore, preoperative endocrinology consultation, perioperative monitoring of serum ammonia levels, and preemptively coordinating for appropriate care in the event hyperammonemia occurs should all be considered.
Emissions of sulfur dioxide and dust at coal power plants of Ukraine
Authors:   Thermal Energy Technology Institute of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Volchyn Igor , Haponych Liudmyla ,   Thermal Energy Technology Institute of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Bizek Vladislav ,   UN Environmental Expert
Published: October 2021

We developed an algorithm for the estimation of harmful emissions depending on the amount of supplied electricity and heat at coal-fired TPP. By this algorithm, we calculated the emissions of SO2 and dust at Ukrainian TPP in 2017 and 2018. The values of SO2 concentrations in dry flue gases at Ukrainian TPP in 2017 and 2018 depending on fuel brand, sulfur content, and method of slag removal in the boiler were in the range of 1520–5900 mg/Nm3, and the general gross emissions of SO2 were about 620 thousand t. The specific emissions of SO2 were at a level of 14–15 g/kWh of supplied electric energy as compared with 1.2 g/kWh – the level for coal-fired plants of EU countries. At Ukrainian TPP, about 100 thousand t of dust were thrown away. The dust concentrations in flue gases at Ukrainian TPP were equal to 300–1800 mg/Nm3. The values of specific dust emissions per 1 kWh of supplied electricity constituted 0.8-5.1 g against 0.2 g/kWh characteristic of present-day coal-fired TPP of EU countries. The level of gross emissions of SO2 and dust at the TPP of Ukraine did not exceed the maximum possible according to the National Emission Reduction Plan of Pollutants from Large Combustion Plants.