bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stakeholders perspective of, and experience with contact tracing for COVID-19 in Ghana: A qualitative study among contact tracers, supervisors, and contacts
Authors: Asiimwe Nashira , Tabong Philip Teg-Nefaah , Iro Stanley Amogu , Noora Charles Lwanga , Opoku-Mensah Kwabena , Asampong Emmanuel
Published: February 2021

Background

Ghana confirmed the first two cases of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS CoV-2) infection on 12th March 2020. Following this, the government introduced routine and enhanced contact tracing to identify, quarantine, and test contacts for COVID-19. This study, therefore, intends to document the experiences of contact tracers, their supervisors, during COVID-19 containment in Ghana.

Methods

Purposive sampling was used to select twenty-seven (27) participants; sixteen contact tracers, six supervisors, and five contacts of COVID-19 cases for an in-depth interview using a topic guide. These interviews were conducted on a phone or face-to-face basis whilst maintaining physical distancing protocol. All these were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Then, QSR NVivo 12 was used to analyse the data thematically.

Results

Contact tracers were selected based on their professional background and surveillance experience with other infectious diseases. They were trained before the first confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the country and before deployment. Deployment of contact tracers was in pairs to monitor contacts daily through physical visits or over the phone. Their activities included educating contacts about the condition, filling the symptoms diary, and providing psychological support. Contacts for COVID-19 were identified through case investigation, and their monitoring is done once a day despite the twice-daily requirement. Wherever a case was confirmed, enhanced contact tracing within a 2km radius was done. Furthermore, it was reported that some contacts were not adhering to the self-quarantine. In addition to this, other challenges included; unstable provision of PPEs and remuneration, refusal of some contact to test, delays in receiving test results, and poor coordination of the whole process.

Conclusions

The study concludes that contact tracing was generally perceived to be helpful in COVID-19 containment in Ghana. However, adhering to self-quarantine protocol had many challenges for both contact tracers and the contacts. Improving coordination and quick release of test results to contacts is necessary for COVID-19 containment. Lastly, the supply of Personal Protection Equipment and motivation needs to be addressed to help position the country well for effective contact tracing.
Small-sided games: An umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses
Authors: Clemente Filipe Manuel , Afonso José , Sarmento Hugo
Published: February 2021

Objective

This umbrella review was conducted to summarize the evidence and qualify the methodological quality of SR and SRMA published on small-sided games in team ball sports.

Methods

A systematic review of Web of Science, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and SPORTDiscus databases was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines.

Results

From the 176 studies initially identified, 12 (eight SR and four SRMA) were fully reviewed, and their outcome measures were extracted and analyzed. Methodological quality (with the use of AMSTAR-2) revealed that seven reviews had low quality and five had critically low quality. Two major types of effects of SSGs were observed: (i) short-term acute effects and (ii) long-term adaptations. Four broad dimensions of analysis were found: (i) physiological demands (internal load); (ii) physical demands (external load) or fitness status; (iii) technical actions; and (iv) tactical behavior and collective organization. The psychological domain was reduced to an analysis of enjoyment. The main findings from this umbrella review revealed that SSGs present positive effects in improving aerobic capacity and tactical/technical behaviors, while neuromuscular adaptations present more heterogeneous findings. Factors such as sex, age group, expertise, skill level, or fitness status are also determinants of some acute effects and adaptations.

Conclusion

The current umbrella review allowed to identify that most of the systematic review and meta-analysis conducted in SSGs presents low methodological quality considering the standards. Most of the systematic reviews included in this umbrella revealed that task constraints significantly change the acute responses in exercise, while SSGs are effective in improving aerobic capacity. Future original studies in this topic should improve the methodological quality and improve the experimental study designs for assessing changes in tactical/technical skills.
THE DIFFICULTIES FACED BY STREET VENDORS AT THE BRASILIA CAPITAL FITNESS 2019 EVENT VENUE
Authors: Correia Maria Dannielle Carvalho , Rodrigues Danielle Smilay de Almeida , Barreto Jozi Nei Silva Félix
Published: February 2021

The overall aim of this research paper is to identify the main difficulties faced by street vendors working around Brasília Capital Fitness, an event held in 2019 at the Pavilhão de Exposições do Parque da Cidade, a large events center in the city of Brasília, DF. A research questionnaire was specially designed for this research, aimed at the street vendors working at the event. The questionnaire sought to determine the socioeconomic profile of these workers, their main activities, and main difficulties they encountered when carrying out this work. The results showed that around 60% of the difficulties mentioned by the street vendors were related to inspections of their authorization to work at the event. It is noted that although 70% of the street vendors had authorization to work at the event, many of those inspecting their activities were too high-handed, creating barriers that prevented the street vendors from freely conducting their activities.
ACADEMIC EVENTS FROM CONCEPTION TO FINAL REPORT: Report of experiences in university extension activities
Authors: Martins Cláudia Araújo de Menezes Gonçalves , Oliveira Sibelle da Silva , Carvalho Dorval Juan Cativo
Published: February 2021

This study is characterized as a report of experience, based on the importance of university extension activities at events as a form of professional practice for students of the Tourism course of the State University of Amazonas - UEA. It reports on the results of an extension project entitled Academic Events from Conception to Final Report. The methodology used for the construction of this study consists of exploratory and descriptive research, qualitativeÂ  in nature, with a bibliographic review to support the proposed discussion.Â  In terms of the results of this experience, professional practice in the events sector is seen as the main factor contributing to the professional formation of students, through their involvement in more than forty events during the second half of 2017 and through to the end of 2018. The report is relevant because it inspires other colleges and universities to reproduce similar activities and even improve on them.Â
Imágenes de la epidemia de fiebres tercianas en la Topografía hipocrática… (1795) de Félix Ibáñez
Authors: Płaczek-Kaszyńska Katarzyna
Published: February 2021

The aim of the study is to analyse the images of the epidemic of tertian fevers in Topografía hipocrática o descripción de la epidemia de calenturas tercianas intermitentes malignas, continuo-remitentes, perniciosas complicadas (1795) by Félix Ibáñez (ca. 1738-1808), one of the most comprehensive studies dedicated to malaria in the 18th century Spain. They are examined from the perspective of the importance of visual representations of the illness in the 18th century, related to a radical transition from a logocentric to a visually dependent culture, which took place in the field of art and medicine in theEnlightenment.
La representación de la sexualidad vegetal en Las bodas de las plantas de José de Viera y Clavijo
Authors: Łuczak Barbara
Published: February 2021

The objective of the article is to analyse the way the sexuality of plants is presented in the poem Las bodas de las plantas by José de Viera y Clavijo (1731-1813). The author of this didactic poem written in the early 19th century refers to some aspects of Linnaeus’ taxonomic system founded on the concept of “nuptiae plantarum” (the marriages of plants). We argue that Viera’s description of the anatomy and physiology of the plant’s reproductive parts, albeit reflecting scientific knowledge of his time, possessed some unique features. In particular, depicting the deeply sexualized portrait of the second kingdom thatbemerges from the Linnaeus’ treatises, the Spanish author tries to “save” the “innocence” of the plants, following a long tradition of their representation in the Western culture. To this end, he complements the picture of plants’ sexuality and reproduction by the idea of plants’ maternity.
Towards an integrated emergency medical care using 5G networks
Authors: Rockstroh Max , Suleder Julian , Bockelmann Carsten , Gaebel Jan , Georgi Christoph , Neumuth Thomas , Will Armin , Wendlandt Robert
Published: February 2021

The Interoperability of medical devices and IT systems using various technologies in clinics and the preclinical area is still a research topic. The MOMENTUM project deals with the new 5G mobile technology and explores how they contribute to an improvement in emergency care. Different applications, as well as various technical and clinical aspects, including IT security, are considered. Integrated emergency care seems sensible, particularly for emergencies outside of metropolitan areas and for particularly critical cases.
Manual versus Automatic Classification of Laryngeal Lesions based on Vascular Patterns in CE+NBI Images
Authors: Esmaeili Nazila , Illanes Alfredo , Boese Axel , Davaris Nikolaos , Arens Christoph , Navab Nassir , Friebe Michael
Published: February 2021

Longitudinal and perpendicular changes in the blood vessels of the vocal fold have been related to the advancement from benign to malignant laryngeal cancer stages. The combination of Contact Endoscopy (CE) and Narrow Band Imaging (NBI) provides intraoperative realtime visualization of vascular pattern in Larynx. The evaluation of these vascular patterns in CE+NBI images is a subjective process leading to differentiation difficulty and subjectivity between benign and malignant lesions. The main objective of this work is to compare multi-observer classification versus automatic classification of laryngeal lesions. Six clinicians visually classified CE+NBI images into benign and malignant lesions. For the automatic classification of CE+NBI images, we used an algorithm based on characterizing the level of the vessel’s disorder. The results of the manual classification showed that there is no objective interpretation, leading to difficulties to visually distinguish between benign and malignant lesions. The results of the automatic classification of CE+NBI images on the other hand showed the capability of the algorithm to solve these issues. Based on the observed results we believe that, the automatic approach could be a valuable tool to assist clinicians to classifying laryngeal lesions.
Wearable motion sensors and digital biomarkers in stroke rehabilitation
Authors: Derungs Adrian , Schuster-Amft Corina , Amft Oliver
Published: February 2021

We propose three novel digital biomarkers for the longitudinal performance monitoring and movement evaluation of hemiparetic patients, e.g. after stroke. We devised convergence points (CP) for the bilateral walking analysis based on gait parameters, e.g. stride duration using regression- modelling to estimate similarity between body sides. The physical activity (PA) was devised to evaluate the energy expenditure of all extremities during training and free-living. The functional range of motion (fROM) is a digital biomarker to quantify the upper arm reaching ability, represented in 3D visualisations. In this work, we detail CP, PA, and fROM to derive rehabilitation insights for personalising therapies. We evaluated the proposed digital biomarkers in a clinical observation study with 11 patients after stroke during their rehabilitation including therapy and self-paced daily routines.
The evaluation of synthetic datasets on training AlexNet for surgical tool detection
Authors: Ding N. , Jalal N. A. , Alshirbaji T. A. , Möller K.
Published: February 2021

Surgical tool recognition is a key task to analyze surgical workflow, in order to improve the efficiency and safety of laparoscopic surgeries. The laparoscopic videos are important sources to conduct this task, However, there are some challenges to analyze these videos. Focus on the imbalanced dataset problem, data augmentation method based on generate different synthetic datasets and evaluate their performance training on a convolutional neural network model are investigated in this research. The results show the effect on the model with different background patterns. A better performance was achieved when the model was trained by a structure background dataset. Further research will be needed to understand why the original background patterns support the correct classification. It is assumed that this is an overlearning effect, that will not hold if other procedures were included into the test set.
Recounting the Empowerment of Women in Rural Areas of KwaZulu-Natal from Information and Knowledge in the Fourth Industrial Revolution Era
Authors: Jiyane Glenrose
Published: February 2021

The fourth industrial revolution (4IR) marks the new, advanced era of development in humankind, and globally countries are in the process of ensuring their citizenry’s readiness. In South Africa, various governmental departments, organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and non-profit organisations (NPOs) are making efforts, through their plans, talks and actions, to attain this status for all her people, particularly women in rural areas. However, the development of women in the rural areas for empowerment remains a concern in developing countries. Consequently, there is a dire need to ensure the developmental status for women in rural areas in the advent of the 4IR, and this paper seeks to demonstrate that information and knowledge may be instrumental in empowering women in rural areas to strive in the 4IR. Accordingly, information and knowledge are a critical resource contributing to the empowerment of women in rural areas for their development. An exploratory question is raised to determine whether South Africa is ready for Fourth Industrial Revolution. The outcome of this paper will contribute to the body of knowledge advocating the importance of information and knowledge in the empowerment of women in rural areas. Significantly, it will generate insights for policymakers on the important role of information and knowledge for women’s development.
On the absorption probabilities and mean time for absorption for discrete Markov chains
Authors: Halidias Nikolaos
Published: February 2021

In this note we study the probability and the
mean time for absorption for discrete time Markov chains. In particular, we are
interested in estimating the mean time for absorption when
absorption is not certain and connect it with some other known
results. Computing a suitable probability generating function, we are able to estimate the mean time for absorption when absorption is not certain giving some applications concerning the random walk. Furthermore, we investigate the probability for a Markov chain to reach a set A before reach B generalizing this result for a sequence of sets

A
1

,

A
2

,
…
,

A
k

{A_{1},A_{2},\dots,A_{k}}

.
The crystal structure of 2-methyl-β-naphthothiazole, C12H9NS
Authors: Hosten Eric C. , Betz Richard
Published: February 2021

C12H9NS, monoclinic, P21/n (no. 14), a = 5.0743(5) Å, b = 14.0545(13) Å, c = 13.3319(17) Å, β = 91.102(5)°, V = 950.61(18) Å3, Z = 4, R

gt
(F) = 0.0322, wR

ref
(F
2) = 0.0908, T = 200 K.
The crystal structure of α-(meta-methoxyphenoxy)-ortho-tolylic acid, C15H14O4
Authors: Hosten Eric C. , Betz Richard
Published: February 2021

C15H14O4, monoclinic, C2/c (no. 15), a = 27.1122(8) Å, b = 6.4295(2) Å, c = 14.7495(4) Å, β = 91.7070(10)°, V = 2569.96(13) Å3, Z = 8, Rgt
(F) = 0.0387, wRref
(F
2) = 0.1091, T = 200 K.
The crystal structure of bis(μ2-5-chloro-N-(2-methyl-1-oxidopropylidene)-2-oxidobenzohydrazonate-κ5
N,O,O′:N′,O′′)pentakis(pyridine-κ1
N)tricopper(II), C47H45Cl2N9Cu3O6
Authors: Liguo Yang , Chaoyang Zhang , Kai Wang , Shengxian Zhai , Nana Liu
Published: February 2021

C47H45Cl2N9Cu3O6, monoclinic, C2/c (no. 15), a = 24.084(9) Å, b = 12.152(5) Å, c = 17.404(7) Å, β = 109.984(4)°, V = 4787(3) Å3, Z = 4, Rgt
(F) = 0.0455, wRref
(F
2) = 0.1363, T = 298 K.
Esplendor de Portugal, oscuridad de Angola: la historia desde la memoria
Authors: Aguilar González Luz Eugenia , Margarito Gaspar Mayra
Published: February 2021

El trabajo analiza la novela Esplendor de Portugal,de António Lobo Antunes. Se analiza la forma como, a través del proceso de ficcionalización, la historia de la independencia de Angola y el regreso de los portugueses a Lisboa (retornados) es una metáfora del derrumbe colonial (la historia) mostrado desde la subjetividad de los personajes (la memoria). El análisis de las estrategias de ficcionalización permiten demostrar que la novela no es histórica, sino intimista.

Se analizan las estructuras narrativas, discursivas y temáticas con base en la teoría de los mundos posibles y los conceptos de cronotopo y polifonía de Bajtin. El análisis histórico permite establecer el eje que estructura los acontecimientos de la novela y a la vez, permite comprender la forma en que los sucesos históricos se resignifican para construir un mundo literario.

Como conclusiones encontramos que los mecanismos de ficcionalización y estéticos se basan en la memoria y los tiempos, real e interno, de los personajes, lo que deriva en la deslocalización psíquica y espacial de estos. Ello se manifiesta por medio de la pérdida de la identidad de los retornados, la fragmentación discursiva y temporal de la historia y la memoria delirante de los personajes. El lenguaje se caracteriza por la abundancia de metáforas, tematizaciones, diálogos y estrategias tipográficas que contrastan con lo sórdido del tema de la novela, lo cual logra un equilibrio estético.
Reproducción y lucha de clases. Bosquejo de una lectura althusseriana del neoliberalismo
Authors: Catanzaro Gisela , Romé Natalia
Published: February 2021

Partiendo de un breve recorrido por tres perspectivas importantes para el abordaje crítico del llamado “neoliberalismo”, el artículo identifica una vacancia común en su caracterización como momento pos-hegemónico del capitalismo; como racionalidad de gobierno de las subjetividades, o como articulación hegemónica. En todos los casos se trata de análisis que, basándose en la detección de un rasgo de la formación social neoliberal -la lógica del Capital, del Poder, o de las articulaciones políticas- encuentran serias dificultades para pensar su inscripción en la complejidad sobredeterminada de la totalidad histórica. A partir de esa lectura, se propone una revisita de la Teoría de la Reproducción Social formulada por Louis Althusser hacia fines de los años sesenta, poniendo el foco en la pregunta por el complejo de relaciones, tendencias y tensiones que le confieren su consistencia contradictoria y su historicidad heterogénea a una formación social, haciendo lugar a la intelección de procesos estructurales de larga duración, pero a través de los rodeos imprescindibles por los aspectos concretos en que esas tendencias existen y sin los cuales sus determinaciones económicas devienen abstractas: la coyuntura ideológica entendida como el complejo de dispositivos, formaciones discursivas, prácticas y formas interpelativas que dan existencia concreta y a la vez modulan la duración/transformación de un orden dado de relaciones, y los procesos de subjetivación política de sus contradicciones, en su contingencia sobredeterminada. El abordaje propuesto permite caracterizar al neoliberalismo como un proceso coyuntural, inestable pero determinado. Con esta matriz teórica se bosquejan, finalmente, algunas conjeturas generales para comprender de un modo complejo las circunstancias concretas de la coyuntura neoliberal argentina de los últimos años.
Mammals of Prince Edward Island and Adjacent Marine Waters
Authors: Wells Peter G.
Published: February 2021

N/A
Higher Education in Texas: a Brief Overview
Authors: Edmonson Stacey L. , Hynes James W.
Published: February 2021

Institutions of Higher Education in Texas develop, support, and enhance the economic, cultural, and social wellbeing of the state and the country. These institutions offer courses and degrees in all disciplines. They are strategically located across the state to support the economic activity while reflecting on the historical and cultural makeup of the region. There are both public and private institutions. The primary focus of this article is on the public university systems in Texas. An overview of the processes of accreditation and governance is presented.
Effectiveness of Environmental Based Thematic Learning Tools (EBTLT) in Improving the Science Literacy Skills
Authors: Harisna Rubita , Sutarto Joko , Suminar Tri
Published: February 2021

Environment-based learning is needed to increase student’s activity through environmental empowerment, which can solve the problems in society as well as to improve students’ scientific literacy. The objective of this research was to analyze the effectiveness of environment-based thematic learning on fourth grade by contextual approach in improving students' scientific literacy skills. This research is a quasi-experimental research by implemented Environmental-Based Thematic Learning Tools (EBTLT). The subject of this research is determined by purposive cluster. They were 25 students as control class, 33 students as the experiment class 1, and 27 students as the experiment class 2. The data analysis was used completeness test, N-Gain analysis, and independent sample t-test. The results showed that the first experimental class and second experimental class students achieve classical completeness > 75%, the value has increased after implemented EBTLT in high category. The average score of science literacy skills and student activity in both experimental class was higher than that of the control class. It can be concluded that students who received EBTLT more effective in improving science literacy skills than students who received basic learning and the activities can create character values for learners
Form of Hate Speech Comments on Najwa Shihab Youtube Channels in The General Election Campaign of President and Vice President of The Republic of Indonesia 2019
Authors: Yuliyanti Tsalisa , Subyantoro Subyantoro , Pristiwati Rahayu
Published: February 2021

Emerging and spreading hate speech online was a growing phenomenon in social media on youtube. Najwa Shihab was a youtube channel that contains shows and comments on political issues in Indonesia, one of them was the 2019 presidential election campaign. The form of hate speech in comments in the Najwa Shihab Channels was forming grammatical construction and construction of the meaning of one hate speech with other utterances. The purpose of this study was to analyze the illocutionary speech acts on hate speech and to analyze hate speech based on the rule of law in Indonesia. The analysis resulted in hate speech on the Najwa Shihab youtube channel audience comments in the General Election campaign in the discourse of the President and Vice President of the Republic of Indonesia in 2019. The approach that used in this study was a theoretical approach, namely a forensic linguistic approach by utilizing pragmatics for data analysis, and a methodological approach, namely a qualitative descriptive approach. The data on hate speech that was analyzed was a fragment of the audience's comments on two programs, namely Mata Najwa and Catatan Najwa. The results showed that there were nine forms of hate speech. Two forms of hate speech were considered to be the style of speech that was widely used by the public in delivering comments on social media. The forms of the speech were "Form of Hate Speech, Assertive Speech - Insult" and "Form of Hate Speech, Assertive Speech - Defamation".  The existence of this form of speech can be a reference for the community to process opinions first before conveying it on social media. It's legally can be used as an offense in cases of hate speech.
Variability at winter wheat varieties first generation which obtained mutagen action
Authors: Nazarenko M. M. , Lykholat T. Y.
Published: February 2021

The purpose of our investigation was to identify the features of the depressive effects of the aftereffect of different doses of gamma-rays on winter wheat varieties of local breeding in terms of germination, survival, morphometry, yield. The parameters of germination and survival, the passage of the main phases of ontogenesis in winter wheat plants of French varieties (Flamenko and Ghayta) at the first generation were studied. The influence of mutagenic depression on parameters of yield structure (morphometry of mature plants) was established and the level of their variability was estimated too. In 2019–2020, experiments were conducted in the research fields of the research center of the Dnieper State Agrarian and Economic University. The experiments used seeds of Flamenko and Ghayta varieties, irradiated with gamma rays in doses of 100, 150, 200, 250, 300 Gy. Control was dry seeds. The variety Ghayta can be classified as resistant to gamma-rays, the variety Flamenko corresponded to high-sensitive. Parameter of germination and survival were directly correlated with increasing dose, with a dose of 200 Gy already semi-lethal, a dose of 250 Gy for variety Flamenko was sublethal, 300 Gy doze full-lethal, for the variety Ghayta sublethal was 300 Gy dose by which almost no plant material was obtained. Such parameters as plant height, weight of grains from the main spike and weight of thousand grains, weight of grains from the plant, partially number of grain from the main spike reliably reproduce the mutagenic depression. Depression of the plants is affected by the genotype of the variety more than the dose of mutagen; the plant height parameter clearly demonstrates mutagenic depression. According to the results of factor and discriminant analysis as indicators affected by genotype-mutagenic interaction should be used germination and survival, pollen sterility, plant height, grain weight per spike, weight of thousand grains weight of grains from the plant. Doses of 100–200 Gy are optimal for further use to obtain mutations; it is possible to use a dose of 250 Gy for the variety Ghayta.
Influence of phytoncide activity of Thuja occidentalis L. on strains of microorganisms under the action of car load (Dnipro city)
Authors: Sklyar T. V. , Yusypiva T. I. , Slobodyanyuk O. O.
Published: February 2021

Landscaping of modern cities is impossible without increasing the area of green planting, which performs the function of turning the environment into more health-friendly one. Especially valuable are the species of ornamental plants that have high volatile activity. Because volatiles regulate the balance of pathogenic microflora in the air of cities, they significantly improve people's living conditions. According to the results of a previous study it was found that Thuja occidentalis L. and Th. plicata Donn ex D. Don f. “Zebrina” had the highest bactericidal activity during the winter among members of the family Cupressaceae. Given the frost, wind, gas and smoke resistance of Th. occidentalis, the aim of the study was to investigate the dynamics of phytoncide activity of the needles of this tree species during the year in a relatively clean zone and under the influence of vehicle emissions on plants in the urban ecosystem of Dnipro. The material was collected in all seasons of the year at two monitoring points in Dnipro, which differ in the level of environmental pollution by vehicle emissions. Traffic intensity was determined by the Potichuk & Pilipaka method. Antimicrobial action of Th. occidentalis was studied by the method of placing the crops of microbial test cultures under the effect of volatile secretions of needles and evaluating the result on a scale of phytoncide activity. The test subjects were Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus aureus, Micrococcus sp., Bacillus subtilis, Esherechia coli, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Candida albicans. Studies have shown that in a relatively clean area and under the action of traffic loads, the inhibitory effect of needles on the studied strains of microorganisms changes during the year: in winter it is the smallest, in spring begins to grow, in summer is maximum, and in autumn decreases again. Under the man-made growth conditions, the greatest volatile activity of Th. оccidentalis performs on test objects such as: S. aureus, Micrococcus sp. and E. coli. When affected by car load, there is significant inhibition of phytoncide production by needles in the presence of C. albicans, to a lesser extent – Ps. fluorescens and B. subtilis. It is recommended to use Th. оccidentalis in landscaping of urban areas with moderate traffic.
Road network forms specific stations for living organisms in the conditions of the steppe zone
Authors: Yermolenko S. V. , Huslystyi A. O. , Hahut A. M. , Gasso V. Ya. , Ivanko I. A.
Published: February 2021

The state of art analysis of available published data allowed to determine the features of the roadside ecosystems formation and the possibility of further development of biodiversity conservation measures. In Ukraine and around the world, road infrastructure is an important economic and social object that has a negative impact on the environment. This takes place due to environmental pollution, fragmentation of habitats, biodiversity loss, etc. At the same time, on the roadsides the stations (microhabitats) are being formed. They can be a barrier to motor vehicle pollution and provide available shelters for living organisms. Road operation usually affects the structure of roadside vegetation. There is an increase in the number of of annual plant species and a decrease in perennials. Favourable conditions are also created for the spread of heliophytes and xerophytes. Roads are a source of chemical pollution that affects all components of roadside ecosystems. The amount of pollutants is mainly dependent on the traffic intensity and road width. The creation of roadside forest plantations significantly reduces the negative impact of vehicles. Wood plantations contribute to better carbon deposition, which is an integral part of many vehicle pollutants, and create a barrier for pollutants coming far from roads. Forest belt can also be a refuge for many species of animals and combine fragmented habitats around. Because plants and small animals at roadside stations are bound to their localities, they are able to accumulate much amount of ecotoxicants, especially heavy metals, which should be taken into account when conducting local business. For the living of animals in roadside stations, the characteristics of specific confined plant community, microclimate and landform are quite important. Due to the linearity and long distances, roadsides provide migration ways for many species. The developed roadside habitats may be the refugia for not only common, but for rare animals. We should conclude that further research of the environmental benefits of roadside ecosystems in the Steppe zone of Ukraine would allow developing effective measures for roadside management in the frames of nature conservation.
МЕТАЭВРИСТИКИ ДЛЯ ПОИСКА ОПТИМАЛЬНЫХ КЛАССИФИКАЦИЙ
Authors: Kozin I. V. , Seliutin E. K.
Published: February 2021

Исследуется проблема поиска оптимальных классификаций на конечном множестве. Показано, что задача поиска оптимальной классификации, порождаемой отношением толерантности на конечном множестве, сводится к задаче оптимизации на множестве перестановок. Предложены метаэвристики для поиска субоптимальных решений задачи классификации.
ИНСТРУМЕНТАРИЙ ПЛАНИРОВАНИЯ ПОДЗЕМНОЙ ИНФРАСТРУКТУРЫ МЕГАПОЛИСА НА ОСНОВЕ МЕТОДОЛОГИЙ ПРЕДВИДЕНИЯ И КОГНИТИВНОГО МОДЕЛИРОВАНИЯ
Authors: Pankratova N. D. , Pankratova V. A. , Gorelova G. V.
Published: February 2021

Предложен инструментарий моделирования и сценарного анализа планирования развития подземной инфраструктуры мегаполиса в условиях экологических, техногенных и террористических угроз на основе совместного применения методологий предвидения и когнитивного моделирования. Разработка экологизированных и безопасных сценариев планирования развития подземного урбанизированного пространства осуществляется на основе методов теории графов, симплициального анализа, импульсного моделирования.
Theoretical modeling of defects in the molecular crystal of 2-(2'-hydroxyphenyl)benzothiazole
Authors: Syetov Y.
Published: February 2021

2-(2'-hydroxyphenyl)benzothiazole is a photoreactive compound that exhibits excited state intramolecular proton transfer in the structure with an OH...N hydrogen bond. Energy of various structures is calculated for isolated molecules, clusters and periodic structures of 2-(2'-hydroxyphenyl)benzothiazole by density-functional based tight-binding methods. It is shown that the most stable conformation of the isolated molecule is a planar structure with an OH...N hydrogen bond. Other conformations have significantly larger energy in comparison with the average room temperature heat energy that implies a low equilibrium number of those structures in non-polar solvents. In crystal the defect with lowest energy is non-hydrogen-bonded conformation formed by rotation of the OH bond. The energy of this defect is close to the energy difference for corresponding conformations of the isolated molecule. For other conformations, the energy values of the defects are larger than the energy differences for isolated molecules. In contrast to the crystal of 2-(2'-hydroxyphenyl)benzoxazole, energy of the defect caused by the entire molecule reorientation is comparable with the energy of defects caused by different conformations.
Determination of dielectric permeability of substances by electromagnetic waveguide method
Authors: Ovsyanikov Vikt. V. , Beznosova E. R. , Tsypko L. Z. , Filins’kyy L. I. , Ovsyanikov Vl. V.
Published: February 2021

A method for determining the complex permittivity of substances by the electromagnetic (EM) waveguide method in the microwave range using electrodynamics and the theory of multilayer dielectric structures is considered. The expression for the complex reflection coefficient of an EM wave in a waveguide with a substance sample is studied. Calculations of the dielectric constant of substances are carried out by analytical and numerical methods using computers. To obtain the desired complex permittivity of a substance, we use the relationship between the expression for the reflection coefficient modulus and the value of the standing wave coefficient over voltage measured in advance in the frequency range. The method is suitable for automation and application in enterprises producing and using fuels, construction and agricultural products. From the found value of the dielectric constant, the quality of substances can be determined. For example, the results of determining the dielectric constant several coals and solid-state foam are given.
Anatomical characteristics of the major salivary glands of puma (Puma concolor Linnaeus, 1771)
Authors: Pereira Thiago Scremin Boscolo , Silva Ana Letícia Daher Aprígio da , Cruvinel Tatiana Morosini de Andrade , Passarelli Paula Medeiros , Loureiro Mayara Elisa Rotta , Marques Vanessa Beletani
Published: February 2021

Abstract The morphological knowledge of the salivary glands in wild species is fundamental, since these studiescan be used as conservation strategies, clinical treatments and the preservation of species threatened with extinction. Thus, the aim of the study was to anatomically describe the larger salivary glands: parotid, mandibular, sublingual and molar of the jaguar. For this, two specimens of puma (Puma concolor) were used, after death by road traffic accident, donated by the Clinical Surgical Service Department of the Veterinary Hospital “Dr. Halim Atique “(UNIRP). The animals were fixed with 10% aqueous formaldehyde solution, dissected, descriptively analyzed and photographed. Morphologically, the parotid gland is grayish-yellow in color, distinctly lobulated, and has a semilunar shape. This gland is located in the posterolateral region of the face and at its ventral end we observe the parotid duct. The mandibular gland presents a slightly rounded outline, a grayish color and its surface is covered by a capsule of connective tissue. This gland is located in the posterolateral region of the face and we find the mandibular duct at its ventral end. The monostomatic sublingual gland is located on the rostral border of the mandibular gland and it is covered by the mandibular lymph nodes. The molar gland is a yellowish-gray membranous protuberance, elongated, with rectangular shape and it lies dorsally to the labial commissure. Based on the dissections, we conclude that the morphological and topographic characteristics of salivary glands of puma follow the same structural pattern described for other species of carnivorous mammals (domestic and wild).
Anatomy of facial nerve in maned wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus - Illiger, 1815)
Authors: Silva Mônica Duarte da , Oliveira Tarley Santos de , Santee Kadija Mohamed , Andrade Francyelli Mello , Oliveira Lanussy Porfiro de , Oliveira Thiago Sardinha de , Chacur Eduardo Paul , Silva Zenon , Barros Roseâmely Angélica de Carvalho
Published: February 2021

Abstract: Maned Wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus) is considered one of the largest and most beautiful canids in South America, inhabits the Cerrado biome, and presents nocturnal habits, especially during the twilight period. It is in danger of extinction, mainly due to anthropic activity in its habitat. What certainly raises the importance of studying and better understanding its biology. The mammalian Facial Nerve is the seventh cranial pair and controls the functions of facial expression muscles and others. Once the anatomical descriptions of this canid are scarce, this paper aimed to describe the anatomy of Facial n. in Maned Wolf and correlate it with that of domestic canids, a phylogenetically close species whose anatomy is well known. For this research, four adult specimens were used, whose carcasses were collected along highways in southeastern Goiás State - Brazil (SISBIO 37072-2), or donated by the Wildlife Screening Center (CETAS) in Catalão - Goiás State. The specimens were fixed in a 10% aqueous formalin solution and stored in the same solution. Dissection was performed by macroscopic anatomical methods. The research was carried out with a favorable opinion of the Animal Use Ethics Committee (CEUA) of the Federal University of Uberlândia (UFU) (under n° 067/12). Anatomical preparations of post-mortem Maned Wolf did not reveal the presence of Caudal Auricular, Internal Auricular, nor Stylohyoid n.. Small ramifications of Facial n. can be considered as collateral branches. The Facial n. emerged as a single trunk, Facial n. Trunk, which branches into Auriculopalpebral, Dorsal Buccal, and Ventral Buccal n..
Conservation and quality of grumatã (Prochilodus lineatus) fillets after different depuration periods and frozen storage
Authors: Kuroda Caroline Naomi , Pretto Alexandra , Camargo Antonio Cleber da Silva , Stefanello Cristiano Miguel , Rosa Guilherme Masteloto da , Ferrigolo Fernanda Rodrigues Goulart , Gollino Gabriel de Paula , Ribeiro Vanessa Bley , Bender Ana Betine Beutinger
Published: February 2021

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate the physicochemical, microbiological, sensory and meat quality characteristics of grumatã fillets after different depuration (0, 48, 72 and 96 h) periods and frozen storage (0, 2, 4 and 6 months). The fish collected in a dam were distributed in tanks at a density of 3.8 kg m3 -1. After depuration periods, all fish were filleted and the fillet samples stored (−18 °C) until analyses. Lower fat content was found in fish submitted to depuration for 48 and 96 h compared to the non-depurated and those depurated for 72 h. Muscle protein was preserved in 48 and 96 h treatments. Coagulase-positive Staphylococcus, coliforms at 45 °C and Salmonella spp. were not observed in the fillets, but aerobic mesophilic microorganisms and coliforms at 35 ºC were detected. Sensory analysis showed no significant differences in appearance, colour, texture, flavour attributes and overall acceptance. During frozen storage, pH, total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N), peroxide and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) values were evaluated in fillet samples every two months. The pH values increased up to four months of storage. The TVB-N values ranged in fillets from fish depurated for 48 and 96 h. Peroxide values increased from the fourth month of storage, with the highest values observed in the sixth month. For TBARS values, increased values were found in fillets from non-depurated fish and lower values in other depuration periods. Thus, depuration is more efficient in maintaining the quality of grumatã fillets in frozen storage.
Conjugated linoleic acid as a potential bioactive molecule to modulates gamete and embryo cryotolerance
Authors: Freitas Danielle Storino , Lopes Guilherme Antonio de Gouvêa , Nascimento Barbara Rodrigues , Pereira Luiza Aparecida Ansaloni Chagas , Batista Ribrio Ivan Tavares Pereira , Campos Junior Paulo Henrique Almeida
Published: February 2021

Abstract Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) is a mixture of positional isomers of linoleic acid found in meat and dairy products from ruminants. It is a trans fat widely used by athletes as a food supplement, due to a supposed effect of maximizing the use of body fat reserves. The interest in diet and culture media supplementation with CLA is an emerging area, demanding studies in order to elucidate its benefits in the reproductive parameters, as well as in cryopreservation. Therefore, the aim of this review was to discuss the effects of CLA on the oocytes, sperm and embryos cryotolerance. Some studies have already demonstrated its use in cryopreservation of germline. Among those, it was observed that CLA supplementation during oocyte in vitro maturation can increase their viability post-freezing and developmental capacity. Regarding the use of CLA on sperm, there are few studies and their results are still inconclusive. Finally, studies about CLA supplementation on embryo culture media have shown promising results, indicating that this bioactive molecule is able to modulate lipid uptake on blastomeres. Altogether, these findings demonstrate the potential use of CLA as a bioactive molecule to improve germline and embryo cryotolerance and open new perspectives on human and animal reproduction field.
Identification and antimicrobial resistance of Salmonella enterica isolated from live birds at commercial resellers
Authors: Reis Silvânia Andrade , Calaça Karine Louise , Nascente Eduardo de Paula , Damasceno Adilson Donizeti , Jayme Valéria de Sá , Andrade Maria Auxiliadora
Published: February 2021

Abstract The objective of this study was to investigate the sanitary and management characteristics of live-bird resellers as well as identify and undertake an antigenic characterization of Salmonella enterica and its sensitivity to antimicrobials. Structured questionnaires were applied and 627 samples were collected from the cages, consisting 209 samples of excreta, 209 of feed and 209 drinker swabs. These were processed by conventional bacteriology. The obtained isolates were subjected to the susceptibility test and to 12 antimicrobial tests by the disk diffusion method. Of the studied resellers, 91.7% house Gallus gallus domesticus, together with other animal species; sell birds with little zoosanitary documentation; have unsatisfactory active surveillance; and use and sell antimicrobials indiscriminately. The presence of Salmonella enterica was detected in 1.4% (9/627) of the samples analyzed in the cages, with 1.9% (4/209) found in excreta, 0.95% (2/209) in feed and in 1.4% (3/209) in drinker swabs. These were characterized antigenically as Salmonella Heidelberg, Gallinarum, Risen, Ndolo, Saint Paul, Mbandaka and subsp enterica O:6,7. When susceptibility to antimicrobials was determined, 44.4% resistance (4/9) was detected for trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, 33.3% (3/9) for enrofloxacin, 22.2% (2/9) for ciprofloxacin, ceftiofur and amoxicillin and 11.1% (1/9) for tetracycline and fosfomycin. Salmonella Heidelberg, as well as serovars Gallinarum, Risen, Saint Paul and Mbandaka, showed resistance to at least one of the tested antimicrobials. Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and enrofloxacin were the antimicrobials that showed the least efficacy. Serovars such as Heidelberg, Gallinarum and Mbandaka have multiresistance to antimicrobials commonly used in human and veterinary medicine, implying potential risks to One Health.
Health functional literacy and adherence to antiretroviral therapy in people living with HIV
Authors: Perez Taciane Alvarenga , Chagas Eduardo Federighi Baisi , Pinheiro Osni Lázaro
Published: February 2021

ABSTRACT Objective: To verify the relationship between adherence to antiretroviral therapy and Functional Health Literacy. Methods: Cross-sectional study, carried out in the Specialized Care Service in 2019, using questionnaires about adherence to treatment and Functional Health literacy people living with human immunodeficiency virus. The LFS questionnaire has questions about numerical and text interpretation skills and the adherence questionnaire addresses how to use antiretrovirals. Viral load was verified by analysis of medical records. Associations between variables were analyzed using the Chi-square test. Results: 78 patients were interviewed and a significant association between the variables to treatment adherence and Functional Literacy in Health was observed. The association between adherence to therapy and viral load levels was also significant. Conclusions: The data found show a significant association between the variables, ie, the lower the functional health literacy, the greater the difficulty to adhere to treatment.
Competences in health promotion in the environmental education practices of community health agents
Authors: Santana Kelly Fernanda Silva , Machado Lucas Dias Soares , Machado Maria de Fátima Antero Sousa , Dias Maria do Socorro de Araújo , Silva Lucilane Maria Sales da , Lopes Maria do Socorro Vieira
Published: February 2021

ABSTRACT Objective: To recognize the domains of competencies in promoting health in the environmental education practices performed by community health agents. Method: A mixed study, which adopted the Developing Competencies and Professional Standards for Health Promotion Capacity Building in Europe (CompHP) as a theoretical framework, conducted in Crato, Ceará, with 16 community health agents, based on semi-structured interviews and data organization through the ALCESTE software. Results: The following domains of competencies in health promotion were evidenced: partnership, possibility of changes, and diagnosis. We recognize evidence signaling other domains, although with less statistical significance, such as: communication, planning and implementation, with a view to developing environmental education activities. Final considerations: There is a mobilization of a limited number of health promotion competences in the environmental education practices developed by community health agents, which requires the wholeness of these elements to implement health promotion practices and, thus, positive transformations on the environment and health.