bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DA AGROINDÚSTRIA A MANUFATURA: ESTUDO SOBRE O PERFIL DOS PEQUENOS NEGÓCIOS, SUA ESTRUTURA ORGANIZACIONAL E ELEMENTOS ESTRATÉGICOS
Authors: Saes Elizangela Veloso , Ribeiro Silvio Paula , Carraro Nilton Cezar , Sousa Marco Aurélio Batista de , Filho Moacir Godinho
Published: July 2020

Este trabalho teve como objetivo identificar os fatores que influenciam a estratégia de manufatura, a montante e jusante, analisando o nível de alinhamento entre os diferentes funcionários na definição da estratégia de produção em pequenas e médias empresas. Assim, por meio de uma análise descritiva das empresas no Município de São Carlos, estado de São Paulo foi possível identificar que a maioria delas atuam a mais de 10 anos; possuem de 2 a 4 sócios; tem níveis hierárquicos simples; pode-se dizer que são empresas familiares e utilizam-se da estratégia de manufatura em massa. Contrapondo-se ao conhecimento ínfimo de técnicas modernas.
FUSÃO SADIA E PERDIGÃO (BRF): UMA ANÁLISE UTILIZANDO OS MODELOS FLEURIET E DUPONT
Authors: Luz Ricardo , Rosa Amerci Borges da , Machado Eduardo Alexandre Corrêa de , Lima Carlos Rogério Montenegro de , Casagrande Jacir Leonir
Published: July 2020

A presente pesquisa destinou-se a analisar os aspectos motivadores da fusão entre Sadia e Perdigão, sob a perspectiva da Teoria da Ecologia Organizacional e o impacto financeiro da fusão, pelos modelos Fleuriet e DuPont. Trata-se de uma pesquisa ex post facto, longitudinal, resultante da análise dos demonstrativos contábeis e informações de mercado. Previamente à fusão, as empresas atuavam de forma concorrente disputando clientes, fornecedores e insumos. O processo de fusão visava à dominação do mercado e a conversão das disputas em sinergias. Os resultados financeiros se mantiveram estáveis nos três anos posteriores à fusão, sem ocorrência de ganhos financeiros expressivos.
Ciências da Terra no currículo do Estado de São Paulo
Authors: Ponte Maxwell Luiz da , Piranha Joseli Maria
Published: July 2020

A alfabetização em Ciências da Terra tem reconhecida importância para a formação cidadã e para a compreensão, valorização e conservação do patrimônio natural e construído. Em decorrência, diversas iniciativas apontam o conjunto de conhecimentos necessários para alfabetização geocientífica. À luz de tais iniciativas, buscou-se estudar o currículo oficial para a educação básica da Secretaria de Educação do Estado de São Paulo. Pôde-se identificar diversos conteúdos e as habilidades afins à alfabetização geocientífica, fragmentados entre disciplinas e desarticulados em séries e bimestres. Embora tópicos relacionados às Ciências da Terra estejam presentes no currículo do Estado de São Paulo, o arranjo disciplinar e as práticas pedagógicas comprometem a alfabetização em Ciências da Terra na educação básica, com reflexos negativos na relação da sociedade com o patrimônio geológico.
O chão que você pisa
Authors: Santos Jussiara Dias dos , Catuzzo Humberto
Published: July 2020

Um projeto de extensão da Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri (UFVJM) executado entre 2018-2019 abordou práticas pedagógicas de ensino de solos nas escolas públicas de Diamantina/MG/Brasil, objetivando facilitar a compreensão dos solos a partir da realidade dos alunos dos níveis de ensino Fundamental II e Médio e associá-los à educação ambiental, análise da paisagem e ludicidade. Práticas realizadas na disciplina de Solos e Paisagens por meio de materiais simples, extraídos do cotidiano, exemplificam os diferentes tipos de solos e suas propriedades físicas e químicas; as modificações da paisagem de forma natural e antrópica, e a importância dos mesmos no equilíbrio natural e ecológico. Aproximadamente 3.500 pessoas foram atingidas e capacitadas, dentre alunos das escolas, professores e discentes do Curso de Geografia, incluindo estagiários e voluntários. O projeto contribuiu também para que alunos da UFVJM pudessem aprender sobre sua futura profissão, capacitando-se para contribuir na melhoria do ensino de Geografia no ensino básico.
Aprendendo com a natureza
Authors: Amaral Ricardo Farias do , Ovigli Daniel Fernando Bovolenta , Colombo Junior Pedro Donizete
Published: July 2020

Este artigo descreve e avalia uma metodologia simples e robusta para estimular e orientar alunos de licenciatura e áreas afins ao longo de atividades de campo como instrumento pedagógico no processo de ensino-aprendizagem das ciências e na sensibilização ambiental. A oficina divide-se em três fases: i) pré-campo, quando aulas expositivas são associadas a estratégias de produção audiovisual e de mapas, na preparação de atividades de campo; ii) campo, em que é aplicado o conhecimento visto na fase anterior; iii) pós-campo, quando são entregues os produtos como: fotos, vídeos, esboços, mapas e relatórios de campo; avaliado o aprendizado; discutidos os estímulos gerados em campo e feita uma análise crítica do método. Após a oficina, a maior parte dos alunos se mostrou motivada a implementar o método em suas vidas profissionais. Trata-se de uma contribuição para o entendimento de quão simples e importante é o olhar atento e cuidadoso para a Natureza.
Mapa geológico interativo
Authors: Sperandio Diogo Gabriel , Gomes Cristiane Heredia , Viçozzi Arthur Pedroso
Published: July 2020

Neste artigo apresentamos uma proposta de mapa geológico virtual e interativo. Desenvolvido no âmbito do projeto Museu Virtual Geológico do Pampa, o mapa aborda a transversalidade doensino de Geociências, fazendo uso das Tecnologias de Informação e Comunicação (TIC) no processode ensino-aprendizagem. O mapa é uma ferramenta lúdica e de auto-aprendizagem, hospedada naplataforma Google Maps (Google LLC), na qual o próprio internauta constrói seu percurso. O MapaGeológico Interativo evidencia as TIC como verdadeira oficina experimental para o ensino de ciênciasem todas as áreas do conhecimento – e neste caso, nas Ciências da Terra, tendo sido construído comdados obtidos em arquivos do tipo Koninklijke Luchtvaart Maatschappij (KML) acerca da geologia doRio Grande do Sul, disponibilizados pelo Serviço Geológico do Brasil (CPRM). É evidente a capacidadedessas ferramentas de interatuar e comunicar-se com as mais variadas perspectivas dos processosformativos em educação informal e, também, não-formal.
Concepções alternativas sobre tectônica de placas
Authors: Ribeiro Yuri , Santos Maristella Moreira , Oliveira Adilson Ribeiro de
Published: July 2020

Este artigo apresenta uma avaliação do entendimento dos alunos sobre Tectônica de Placas em um curso técnico de Mineração. Por intermédio de um questionário, aplicaram-se perguntas sobre terminologia, movimento relativo de placas, fusão de rochas e ocorrência de terremotos. O objetivo da abordagem foi permitir que os participantes expressassem mal-entendidos, entendimentos parciais e outras concepções alternativas, de modo a auxiliar a aprendizagem posterior. Foi observado que os alunos apresentam algum conhecimento descritivo das placas tectônicas, mas é inconsistente o conhecimento explicativo conceitual, que relaciona a dinâmica dos movimentos das placas com as evidências explicadas pela teoria. Constatou-se a necessidade do uso de evidências e conexões dinâmicas entre movimentos de placas e processos observáveis para apoiar o aprendizado da teoria. Ainda, destacou-se a importância de se realizar uma aula focada em refutar concepções alternativas dos alunos sobre a Teoria de Tectônica de Placas.
Le rôle de l’odorat dans les relations interindividuelles des animaux d’élevage
Authors: SIGNORET J.P. , LEVY F. , NOWAK R. , ORGEUR P. , SCHAAL B.
Published: July 2020

L’odorat joue un rôle essentiel dans les communications entre les mammifères. La reconnaissance individuelle peut se faire sur la seule base de signaux olfactifs provenant de diverses sécrétions ou excrétions, même isolées. L’odeur d’un individu peut également informer sur son état émotionnel.
L’organisation des différentes étapes du comportement sexuel met en oeuvre des odeurs venant du mâle comme de la femelle. Des signaux chimiques permettent d’identifier l’état d’oestrus de la femelle, mais celle-ci est alors très fortement attirée par l’odeur du mâle. Ces signaux interviennent dans le déclenchement des postures d’acceptation et de monte.
Les odeurs sexuelles interviennent également dans la régulation physiologique : l’odeur du bélier induit l’ovulation de la brebis en repos sexuel, celle de la femelle en oestrus produit une sécrétion d’hormone gonadotrope et de testostérone chez le mâle.
Les différentes phases de la relation de la mère et du jeune font appel aux communications olfactives. Chez la brebis, l’attraction pour le liquide amniotique produit le premier contact et le léchage du nouveau-né. L’odeur individuelle de l’agneau est à la base de la sélectivité de la relation maternelle, et c’est l’odorat qui guide l’agneau dans la première recherche de la mamelle.
Cependant, dans tous les cas étudiés, l’odorat agit en interaction avec les autres canaux sensoriels, dans une action cumulative et souvent redondante.
Eléments de réussite économique des élevages ovins extensifs du Montmorillonnais
Authors: BENOIT M. , LAIGNEL G. , LIENARD G. , DEDIEU B. , CHABOSSEAU J.M.
Published: July 2020

L’intensification de la production ovine française a été mise en difficulté par l’élargissement de l’Organisation Commune de Marché de l’Union Européenne à la Grande-Bretagne et à l’Irlande, puis par la réforme de la PAC qui soutient les systèmes moins intensifs.
L’étude montre la spécificité d’élevages extensifs au sein d’un groupe de grands élevages ovins viande du Montmorillonnais (zone défavorisée du sud de la Vienne) regroupés en types d’exploitations très caractérisés, des extensifs (avec un chargement inférieur à 0,85 UGB/ha SFP) à des intensifs (1,40 UGB/ha SFP), relativement aux conditions du milieu. Les fonctionnements sont très différents, y compris au sein des élevages extensifs, parmi lesquels l’on distingue deux sous-groupes, les Extensifs spécialisés très autonomes et les Très extensifs avec cultures. De bons niveaux de revenu s’observent tant chez certains élevages intensifs que dans les élevages herbagers autonomes ou extensifs spécialisés, en fonction des niveaux des trois facteurs essentiels que sont la marge par brebis, la productivité du travail et les charges de structure. En élevage extensif, les meilleurs résultats reposent sur une productivité numérique modérée (115 à 130 %) avec une utilisation maximale de l’herbe que l’on peut mesurer par le degré d’autonomie fourragère, et très peu d’intrants ; les agnelages sont de préférence en fin d’hiver (décembre à avril) pour une vente précoce des agneaux et les récoltes de foin peuvent être réduites par la pratique du plein air. Il faut généralement pouvoir disposer de plus grandes surfaces qu’en intensif. Cependant, certains élevages extensifs obtiennent de bons résultats sur des surfaces moyennes, s’ils ont une excellente autonomie fourragère et des charges de structure très limitées.
Sociodemographic and Genetic Influences on Dietary Patterns and Their Influence on Health Outcomes in the Atlanta Center for Health Discovery and Well Being Cohort
Authors: Chen Jingheng , Huang Xueying , Ziegler Thomas R. , Jones Dean P. , Lampl Michelle , Quyyumi Arshed A. , Clark Jane , Martin Gregory S. , Brigham Kenneth L. , Gibson Greg
Published: July 2020

Diet influences, and is influenced by, a wide range of socioeconomic, cultural, geographic, and genetic variables. Here we survey a matrix of such interactions as well as their connection to a variety of health outcomes, in a cohort of 689 diverse adults employed at Emory University and enrolled in the Center for Health Discovery and Well-Being (CHDWB) study. Principal component analysis (PCA) of the Block Food Frequency Questionnaire revealed seven PC cumulatively explaining 25.8% and each individually at least 2% of the proportional consumption of 110 food items. PC1 is strongly correlated with the Healthy Eating Index-2015 measure, and accordingly healthier scores associate with multiple measures of physical and mental health. It, as well as PC2 (likely a measure of food expense) and PC3 (carbohydrate versus protein consumption) show significant geographic structure across the Atlanta metropolitan area, correlating with race and ethnicity, income level, age and sex. Notably, a polygenic score for body mass index (BMI) consisting of 281 SNPs explains 2.8% of the variance in PC5, which is as strong as its association with BMI itself. PC5 appears to differentiate participants with respect to conscious eating behavior related to the choice of diet or comfort foods. Our analysis adds to the growing literature on factor analysis of socio-demographic influences on nutrition and health.
Neutrophil Extracellular Traps Impair Intestinal Barrier Function during Experimental Colitis
Authors: Lin Elliot Yi-Hsin , Lai Hsuan-Ju , Cheng Yuan-Kai , Leong Kai-Quan , Cheng Li-Chieh , Chou Yi-Chun , Peng Yu-Chun , Hsu Yi-Hsuan , Chiang Hao-Sen
Published: July 2020

Aberrant neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation and the loss of barrier integrity in inflamed intestinal tissues have long been associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, whether NETs alter intestinal epithelium permeability during colitis remains elusive. Here, we demonstrated that NETs promote the breakdown in intestinal barrier function for the pathogenesis of intestinal inflammation in mouse models of colitis. NETs were abundant in the colon of mice with colitis experimentally induced by dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) or 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS). Analysis of the intestinal barrier integrity revealed that NETs impaired gut permeability, enabling the initiation of luminal bacterial translocation and inflammation. Furthermore, NETs induced the apoptosis of epithelial cells and disrupted the integrity of tight junctions and adherens junctions. Intravenous administration of DNase I, an enzyme that dissolves the web-like DNA filaments of NETs, during colitis restored the mucosal barrier integrity which reduced the dissemination of luminal bacteria, and attenuated intestinal inflammation in both DSS and TNBS models. We conclude that NETs serve a detrimental factor in the gut epithelial barrier function leading to the pathogenesis of mucosal inflammation during acute colitis.
Field Implementation of a Monthly Multi-Modal Prophylactic Strategy (Dinotefuran-Permethrin-Pyriproxyfen and Milbemycine Oxime-Praziquantel) Against Canine Vector-Borne Diseases in Corsica
Authors: Laidoudi Younes , Medkour Hacène , Tahir Djamel , Dahmana Handy , Marié Jean-Lou , Varloud Marie , Mediannikov Oleg , Davoust Bernard
Published: July 2020

With a mild Mediterranean-type climate, Corsica is endemic for canine vector-borne diseases (CVBDs) such as dirofilariosis (a mosquitoes borne-diseases: MBDs), leishmaniosis and ehrlichiosis. The aim of this present study was to evaluate a monthly multi-modal prophylactic strategy (MMP) against CVBDs occurring in Corsica. The study was conducted as a comparative field trial in which eighty dogs allocated into two groups were included: (i) Group 1 consisted of 25 dogs under the MMP [per-os administration of 1.5 tablet of milbemycine oxime-praziquantel and a topical line-on application of a 3.6 mL solution of dinotefuran-permethrin-pyriproxyfen] and (ii) Group 2 under various real-life prophylactic treatment (RLP) based on the use of ectoparasiticide products [different formulations: deltamethrin, fluralaner, fipronil] and/or macrocyclic lactones based-products [milbemycin oxime/praziquantel, milbemycin oxime, moxidectin] during the period ranging from June to October 2017. All animals were followed for one year and had blood drawn at day 0, followed by follow-up at 6 and 12 months. Samples were screened for filariosis using molecular tools as well as for leishmaniosis and ehrlichiosis using indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA). At the end of the study, no new cases of CVBDs were recorded within Group 1. In Group 2, the cumulative incidence of CVBDs was 20.0% (n= 11; p= 0.015) including dirofilarioses due to Dirofilaria immitis and/or D. repens, with 16.4% (n= 9; p=0.027). Ehrlichiosis was 5.5% (n= 3; p=0.241). No new cases of leishmaniosis were detected in Group 2. The data illustrated that, unlike the RLP treatment which failed to protect at least 20% of dogs, the MMP based on the concurrent administration of milbemycine oxime-praziquantel and dinotefuran-permethrin-pyriproxyfen is efficient to protect dogs against CVBDs in a high-risk area.
Restless abdomen: a spectrum or a phenotype variant of restless legs syndrome?
Authors: Wang Xi-Xi , Zhu Xiao-Ying , Wang Zan , Dong Jian-Wei , Ondo William G. , Wu Yun-Cheng
Published: July 2020

Background: With the growing awareness of restless legs syndrome (RLS), sensory disorders similar to RLS initially confined to the arms, abdomen, and perineum are more and more being recognized. One of them is restless abdomen, which refers to a restless sensation in abdomen. Our study is designed to evaluate the clinical phenotype of restless abdomen and investigate its relationship with RLS. Methods: We enrolled 10 patients with restless abdomen according to the RLS diagnostic criteria. Laboratory examinations were performed to exclude mimics and notable comorbidities. Results: All 10 patients had RLS like symptoms in the abdomen and otherwise satisfied all other RLS diagnostic criteria, and responded to dopaminergic therapy. Conclusions: Neurologists should be aware of the RLS-related restlessness that can occur in extra-leg anatomy in the absence of episodes of worsening or augmentation of restlessness.
TUG1 enhances high gluose impaired endothelial progenitor cell function via miR-29c-3p/PDGF-BB/Wnt signaling
Authors: Li Yang , Zhi Kangkang , Han Shilong , Li Xue , Li Maoquan , Lian Weishuai , Zhang Haijun , Zhang Xiaoping
Published: July 2020

Background: Diabetes is associated with the dysfunction of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), characterized as impaired angiogenesis, a phenomenon thought to be involved in the development of diabetic foot. LncRNA plays an essential role in microvascular dysfunction and signaling pathways in patients with diabetes. LncRNA taurine upregulated gene 1 (TUG1) participates in angiogenesis in various cells. However, the mechanisms of TUG1 activity in EPCs have not been elucidated. Methods: We isolated and then characterized EPCs from the peripheral blood of mice using immunofluorescence and flow cytometry. Western blot detected the wnt/β-catenin pathway in high glucose treated EPCs. Bioinformatics analysis predicted a putative binding site for TUG1 on miR-29c-3p. The interactions among TUG1, platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) and miR-29c-3p were analyzed by luciferase assays. In vivo, diabetic mouse ischemic limb were treated with normal saline or TUG1 overexpression lentiviruses. Results: We found that EPC migration, invasion and tube-formation declined after treatment with high-glucose, but improved with TUG1 overexpression. Mechanically, wnt/β-catenin pathway and autophagy were involved in the function of TUG1 overexpression in high glucose treated EPCs. Moreover, TUG1 regulates the PDGF-BB/wnt pathway and function of high glucose treated EPCs via miR-29c-3p. In vivo, injection of TUG1 lentivirus in a diabetic mouse ischemic limb model stimulated angiogenesis. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that TUG1 restores high glucose treated EPC function by regulating miR-29c-3p/PDGF-BB/Wnt signaling.
Numerical analysis of asphalt concrete milling process based on multicomponent modeling
Authors: Zhou Liqun , Liu Yi , Wang Zhennan , Li Yuping , Zhang Kui , Zhang Gaofeng
Published: July 2020

In this paper, according to the different physical properties of each component of asphalt concrete, a finite element simulation is used to build a mechanical constitutive model for the concrete cutting processes. When the machine cutter contacts different aggregate particles, the variation rules of mechanical information are obtained and studied. The main research work includes: (1) The track and force of the tool in the cutting process are defined, and then the track equation of the tool tip and the calculation formula of friction resistance are obtained. The relationship between the friction resistance and working parameters is clarified. (2)From the multicompont modeling, the internal components of asphalt concrete are refined, and the mechanical properties of asphalt mortar and aggregate particles are set up. Random feeding of different aggregate particles in asphalt concrete specimens is completed by using Python software and Monte carlo method. After the simulation, the results are imported into numerical software to generate the variation curve of tool friction resistance, so as to obtain the rule of its change with various factors, and according to the above studies, the optimal working parameters combination of the milling planer are summarized.
BION-2: Predicting Positions of Non-Specifically Bound ions on Protein Surface by a Gaussian-based Treatment of Electrostatic Environment
Authors: Shashikala Mihiri , Chakravorty Arghya , Pandey Shailesh , Alexov Emil
Published: July 2020

Background: Ions play significant roles in biological processes - they may specifically bind to a protein site or bind non-specifically on its surface. Though, the role of specifically bound ions range from actively providing structural compactness via coordination of charge-charge interactions to numerous enzymatic activities, non-specifically surface-bound ions are also crucial to maintaining a protein’s stability, responding to pH and ion concentration changes and contributing to other biological processes. However, experimental determination of positions of non-specifically bound ions is not trivial since they may have low residential time and experience significant thermal fluctuation of their positions. Results: Here we report a new release of a computational method, the BION-2 method, that predicts positions of non-specifically surface-bound ions. The BION-2 utilizes the Gaussian-based treatment of ions within the framework of the modified Poisson-Boltzmann equation, that does not require a sharp boundary between the protein and water phase. Thus, the predictions are done by the balance of the energy of interaction between the protein charges and the corresponding ions, and the de-solvation penalty of the ions as they approach the protein. Conclusions: The BION-2 is tested against experimentally determined ion’s positions, with both X-ray and NMR determined positions, and it is demonstrated that it outperforms the old BION and molecular dynamics tools. The BION-2 is available as a web server as well.
Quantum Signature of Anisotropic Singularities in Hydrogen Bond Breaking of Water Dimer
Authors: Ali Md. Rejwan , Mezei Mihaly
Published: July 2020

Molecular simulations from small molecules to large bio-macromolecules and polymer systems are routinely used to simulate thermodynamics properties of interests by molecular mechanics-based potentials. In a recent paper, via three different semi-empirical methods, we reported quantum singularities in molecular mechanics torsion potentials as signature of chemical bond break-up process revealed under experimental X-ray as broken chemical moieties. In this present work, applying first principle methods of Hartree-Fock, Density Functional as well as Moller-Plesset techniques we have reconfirmed the previous general predictions of singularities in the torsion potential for the case of water dimer that connects two water monomers by weak hydrogen bond. Due to quantum nature of chemical bond breaking process leading to break-point conditions in otherwise connected molecular topology aided by molecular mechanics based potentials, the singularities are also suggestive of large forces as onset in the bond-breaking process. We have presented the details of these novel interesting findings in this paper. These results of quantum singularities can have significant impacts to improve current force fields and can open up new areas we define as “Fracture Molecular Mechanics” or “Fracture Force Field” in overlap regions of molecular and quantum mechanics based approaches to explore and account for chemical bond-breaking mechanisms in molecular simulation techniques.
Beyond COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review of the Role of Global Health in the Evolution and Practice of Corporate Social Responsibility
Authors: Antwi Henry Asante
Published: July 2020

BackgroundGlobal health crisis continues to drive the dynamics of corporate social responsibility across industries with self-perpetuating momentum. From a historical point of view, more than a century of immense corporate fecundity has formed the ecological conditions and shaped current understanding of the effect of global health on CSR. The HIV-AIDS, the Opiod, the environmental health, obesity and many other health crises have become a synergistic platform to enhance corporate offer and competitiveness through voluntary support and care for victims. This review therefore revisits the core issues in global health that continues to drive CSR across industries. It seek to establish the driving dynamics of healthcare in CSR engagement, identify its contribution to theory and practice and predict the future pattern as corporate enterprises navigate new CSR strategies through the epochal challenges presented by COVID-19MethodThe procedures and set of activities outlined in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) flow chart was used to carry out the systematic review.ResultsThe analysis has shown that from time immemorial, global health has played a major role in the development and implementation of CSR among enterprises. The HIV-AIDS pandemic, the environmental health crises are two dominant global health crisis that have shaped and continue to drive CSR activities in numerous work places but COVID-19 presents a deeper challenge for enterprise. These diseases are capable of self-mobilising advocates at the international level, have a grabbing value that reaches the corridors of power in international humanitarian organisations and multinational enterprises.ConclusionsThe impact of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) on CSR is predicted to be monumental and uncommon. The call for a radical overhaul of health and safety measures in enterprises is now urgent than ever before. There is a moral obligation for enterprises to reform current risk assessments and collaborate more deeply with state agencies to invest in the health and safety inspections at the world place.
COVID-19 Lesion Segmentation using Lung CT Scan Images: Comparative Study based on Active Contour Models
Authors: Akbari Younes , Hassen Hanadi , Al-maadeed Somaya , Zughaier Susu M.
Published: July 2020

Pneumonia is a lung infection threaten that threats all age groups. In this paper, using CT scans images, we used active contour models to evaluate and determine pneumonia infection caused by the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19). A background of active contour models (ACM) including contour representation and object boundary description methods is presented. The focus of this paper is on the conducted works based on the external forces. These methods include edge-based and region-based methods. Furthermore, the explanations of these methods, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each method are presented. Finally, a comparison between the performances of the conducted works has been done based on a database of Lung CT Scan Images. The present review helps readers identify research starting points in active contour models on COVID19 research, which is a high priority topic to guide researchers and practitioners. In addition, when there are not enough images to use machine learning techniques, such as deep learning methods, the experimental results indicate that active contour methods obtain promising results.
Nutrition Uptake and Disease of Children with Anemia in Peru, A Cross-Sectional Analysis
Authors: Westgard Christopher , Orrego-Ferreyros Luis A. , Calderón Liz Franco , Rogers Alexandra M.
Published: July 2020

Anemia is a multicausal problem affecting 41.7% of children under 5 worldwide. The prevalence of anemia in Peru has decreased only 6.8% from 2009 to 2017, despite great efforts made to distribute free multi-micronutrient supplements and promote the consumption of iron rich foods. The current study investigates the nutritional uptake and incidence of disease in children with anemia in Peru to better understand what is driving the high rates of anemia. METHODS A cross-sectional analysis of secondary data was conducted. Data from two national surveys were linked to evaluate the predictors of anemia. The associations were tested with Chi-square analysis and logistic multivariate regression analysis. RESULTS The sample included 586 children under 3. The prevalence of anemia was 53.2%, while 51.9% of the children consumed sufficient micronutrients to meet the daily recommended level for their age. Of those with anemia, 45.1% consumed sufficient micronutrients to meet the recommended level (p<0.001). The children with anemia were more likely to have an infectious or parasitic disease in the last year and less likely to have access to safe drinking water (p=0.057, p=0.002, respectfully). The logistic analysis displayed that having an infectious or parasitic disease increased the odds of having anemia (OR=1.6, p=0.043), and having access to safe drinking waters decreased the odds of having anemia (OR=0.58, p=0.044), while controlling for micronutrient uptake. CONCLUSIONS Nearly half of the children with anemia in Peru already consume sufficient nutrients to meet their daily requirement. However, they continue to have anemia, likely due to infectious diseases and parasites.
A HAWAII-2RG Infrared Camera Operated Under Fast Readout Mode for Solar Polarimetry
Authors: Hanaoka Yoichiro , Katsukawa Yukio , Morita Satoshi , Kamata Yukiko , Ishizuka Noriyoshi
Published: July 2020

Polarimetry is a crucial method to investigate solar magnetic elds. From the viewpoint of space weather, the magnetic eld in solar laments, which occasionally erupt and develop into interplanetary ux ropes, is of particular interest. To measure the magnetic eld in laments, high-performance polarimetry in the near-infrared wavelengths employing a high-speed, large-format detector is required; however, so far, this has been difficult to be realized. Thus, the development of a new infrared camera for advanced solar polarimetry has been started, employing a HAWAII-2RG (H2RG) array by Teledyne, which has 2048 2048 pixels, focusing on the wavelengths in the range of 1.0{1.6 m. We solved the problem of the difficult operation of the H2RGs under \fast readout mode" synchronizing with high-speed polarization modulation by introducing a \MACIE" (Markury ASIC Control and Interface Electronics) interface card and new assembly codes provided by Markury Scientic. This enables polarization measurements with high frame-rates, such as 29{117 frames per seconds, using a H2RG. We conducted experimental observations of the Sun and conrmed the high polarimetric performance of the camera.
“Bridge over troubled water”: A first look at adolescent psychiatric outpatients transited from regular care to teletherapy during the COVID-19 outbreak using quantitative and qualitative analyses.
Authors: Huscsava Mercedes Maria , Scharinger Christian , Plener Paul L. , Kothgassner Oswald D.
Published: July 2020

BackgroundAdolescents suffering from psychiatric disorders are at risk of disproportionally suffering from the current COVID-19-pandemic. We aimed to assess their specific needs and to evaluate factors influencing a successful transition into teletherapy.MethodsThirty adolescent psychiatric outpatients participated in a series of interviews. The primary outcome was the level of psychosocial functioning. Secondary outcome were potential changes in differential symptom domains. Additionally, answers to open questions were analysed qualitatively.ResultsWithin-group effect size estimates revealed a significant decrease in the level of functioning within the first two months after transition from face-to-face therapy (M = 2·7, SD = 1·258) to teletherapy (M = 3·0, SD = 1·245) (T29 = -2·536, p = 0·017, d = 0·46). Qualitative analysis revealed a marked difference in the level of perceived social support in the subgroup of patients who deteriorated in their level of functioning. Those patients also showed a lower degree of verbal differentiation concerning emotions and affect, as well as a higher degree of introspection and rumination. ConclusionsDespite an overall deterioration, in absolute numbers most patients showed a stagnation in their level of functioning, even if difficulties were expressed. The most prominent difference in the subgroup who showed a decreased level of functioning, was the lack of perceived social support. Provision of strategies to enhance verbalisation and differentiation of emotions and affect might be beneficial.
Molecular Interactions of Fullerene-Based Derivatives and SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Gawad Alaa El-DinA. , Bayoumy Ahmed M. , Ibrahim Medhat A.
Published: July 2020

There are no expedient proven to stop the outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 at this phase. This leads to diversity of endeavors to find out the effective drug or vaccine. One of these possibilities is to exploit the unique characteristics of fullerene-based derivatives. A computer-aided method (molecular docking) was applied to assess the differential binding behavior of these compounds and determining hydrophobic forces, electrostatic interactions, and hydrogen bonds played vital roles in the interactions with SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. The molecular docking calculation clarifies the binding mode and the binding sites may facilitate the development of new or improved therapeutic regimes effective against COVID-19. Fulleropyrrolidine-NH2 seems to be promising candidate for interacting with SARS-CoV-2 binding site.
Jasonsmithite, a new phosphate mineral with a complex microporous framework, from the Foote mine, North Carolina, U.S.A
Authors: Kampf Anthony R. , Celestian Aaron J. , Nash Barbara P.
Published: July 2020

Jasonsmithite (IMA2019-121), Mn42+ZnAl(PO4)4(OH)(H2O)7·3.5H2O, is a pegmatite-phosphate mineral from the Foote Lithium Company mine, Kings Mountain district, Cleveland County, North Carolina, U.S.A. It is interpreted as having formed by late-stage, low-temperature hydrothermal alteration. Crystals are colorless to light brown, slightly flattened prisms to about 1 mm in length with wedge-shaped terminations. The mineral is transparent with vitreous luster, white streak, Mohs hardness 2, brittle tenacity, irregular fracture, and perfect {001} cleavage. The density is 2.63(2) g/cm3. Jasonsmithite is biaxial (–), with α = 1.561(2), β = 1.580(2), γ = 1.581(2), measured in white light. The 2V is 25(5)° and dispersion is r < ν moderate. The optical orientation is Y = b, X ^ c = 18° in obtuse β. The Raman spectrum is dominated by vibrational modes of PO4 and ZnO4 tetrahedra, AlO6 and MnO6 octahedra, and OH groups. Electron microprobe analyses gave the empirical formula (Mn3.09Fe0.87)Σ3.96Zn1.05Al0.98(PO4)4(OH)(H2O)7·3.5H2O. The mineral is monoclinic, P21/c, a = 8.5822(3), b = 13.1770(6), c = 20.3040(14) Å, β = 98.485(7)°, V = 2271.0(2) Å3, and Z = 4. The structure (R1 = 0.0443 for 3685 I>2σI reflections) contains zigzag chains of edge-sharing MnO6 octahedra that corner-link to adjacent chains and to PO4 tetrahedra to form sheets, which are decorated by ZnO4 tetrahedra. The sheets are linked to one another via dimers of AlO6 octahedra, forming a framework with large channels containing H2O groups. With H2O groups removed, the framework has a void space of 70.2% per unit cell, and a framework density of 14.5 polyhedral atoms/1000 Å3, which would place jasonsmithite among the most porous minerals.
A GPU-based 2D shallow water quality model
Authors: Gordillo Geovanny , Morales-Hernández Mario , Echeverribar I. , Fernández-Pato Javier , García-Navarro Pilar
Published: July 2020

In this study, a 2D shallow water flow solver integrated with a water quality model is presented. The interaction between the main water quality constituents included is based on the Water Quality Analysis Simulation Program. Efficiency is achieved by computing with a combination of a Central Processing Unit (CPU) and a Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) device. This technique is intended to provide robust and accurate simulations with high computation speedups with respect to a single-core CPU in real events. The proposed numerical model is evaluated in cases that include the transport and reaction of water quality components over irregular bed topography and dry–wet fronts, verifying that the numerical solution in these situations conserves the required properties (C-property and positivity). The model can operate in any steady or unsteady form allowing an efficient assessment of the environmental impact of water flows. The field data from an unsteady river reach test case are used to show that the model is capable of predicting the measured temporal distribution of dissolved oxygen and water temperature, proving the robustness and computational efficiency of the model, even in the presence of noisy signals such as wind speed.
Synthesis of nanoZrO2 via simple new green routes and its effective application as adsorbent in phosphate remediation of water with or without immobilization in Al-alginate beads
Authors: Biftu Wondwosen Kebede , Ravindhranath Kunta
Published: July 2020

Nano particles of ZrO2 of average size 10.91 nm are successfully synthesized via green routes from a solvent blend of water and ethylene glycol (4:1 v/v). Bio-extract of seeds of Sapindus plant is employed as stabilizing and/or capping agent and homogeneous method of precipitation is adopted to generate the precipitating agent. The nZrO2 particles are immobilized in aluminum alginate beads (nZrO2-Al- alig). Nano-ZrO2 and beads are investigated as adsorbents for the extraction of phosphate from water. The controlling physicochemical parameters are studied for the maximum phosphate removal using simulate water. The optimum conditions are: pH: 7; sorbent dosage: 0.1 g/100 mL for nZrO2 and 0.08 g/100 mL for beads; equilibration time: 30 min.for nZrO2 and 35 min for beads; initial phosphate concentration: 50 mg/L; temperature: 30 ± 1 °C; 300 rpm. The adsorption capacities are: 126.2 mg/g for nZrO2 and 173.0 mg/g for ‘nZrO2-Al- alig’ and they are higher than many reported in literature. The beads, besides facilitating the easy filtration, are exhibiting enhanced cumulative phosphate-adsorption nature of nanoZrO2 and Al-alginate. X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) investigations are employed in characterizing the adsorbents. Of the various isotherm models analyzed to assess the nature of adsorption, Freundlich model provides the best correlation (R2 = 0.99 for nZrO2 and R2 = 0.99 for ‘nZrO2-Al-alig’), indicating the heterogeneous and multi-layered adsorption process. Thermodynamic studies reveal the endothermic and spontaneous nature of sorption. Pseudo-second-order model of kinetics describes the adsorption well. Spent adsorbents can be regenerated with marginal loss of adsorption capacity until five cycles. The sorbents are successfully applied to remove phosphate from polluted lake water samples.
Pathophysiology of Ischemic Stroke: Role of Oxidative Stress
Authors: Orellana-Urzúa Sofía , Rojas Ignacio , Líbano Lucas , Rodrigo Ramón
Published: July 2020

Stroke is the second leading cause of mortality and the major cause of adult physical disability worldwide.
The currently available treatment to recanalize the blood flow in acute ischemic stroke is intravenous administration
of tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) and endovascular treatment. Nevertheless, those treatments
have the disadvantage that reperfusion leads to a highly harmful reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, generating
oxidative stress (OS), which is responsible for most of the ischemia-reperfusion injury and thus causing
brain tissue damage. In addition, OS can lead brain cells to apoptosis, autophagy and necrosis. The aims of this
review are to provide an updated overview of the role of OS in brain IRI, providing some bases for therapeutic
interventions based on counteracting the OS-related mechanism of injury and thus suggesting novel possible
strategies in the prevention of IRI after stroke.
PLGA Nanoparticles for Nose to Brain Delivery of Clonazepam: Formulation, Optimization by 32 Factorial Design, In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation
Authors: Shah Pranav , Sarolia Jayant , Vyas Bhavin , Wagh Priti , Ankur Kaul , Kumar Mishra Anil
Published: July 2020

Background:

Intranasal administration of biodegradable nanoparticles has been extensively studied for targeting the drug directly to CNS through olfactory or trigeminal route bypassing blood brain barrier.

Objective:

The objective of the present study was to optimize Clonazepam loaded PLGA nanoparticles (CLO-PNPs) by investigating the effect of process variables on the responses using 32 full factorial design.

Methods:

Effect of two independent factors-amount of PLGA and concentration of Poloxamer 188, were studied at low, medium, and high levels on three dependent responses-%Entrapment efficiency, Particle size (nm), and % cumulative drug release at 24hr.

Results:

%EE, Particle size, and %CDR at 24hr of the optimized batch was 63.7%, 165.1 nm, and 86.96%, respectively. Nanoparticles were radiolabeled with99mTc and biodistribution was investigated in BALB/c mice after intranasal and intravenous administrations. Significantly higher brain/blood uptake ratios and AUC values in the brain following intranasal administration of CLO-PNPs indicated more effective brain targeting of CLO. Higher brain uptake of intranasal CLO-PNPs was confirmed by rabbit brain scintigraphy imaging. A histopathological study performed on goat nasal mucosa revealed no adverse response of nanoparticles. TEM image exhibited spherical shaped particles in the nano range. DSC and XRD studies suggested Clonazepam encapsulation within the PLGA matrix. The onset of occurrence of PTZ-induced seizures in rats was significantly delayed by intranasal nanoparticles as compared to intranasal and intravenous CLO-SOL.

Conclusion:

This investigation exhibits rapid rate and higher extent of CLO transport in the brain with intranasal CLO-PNPs suggesting a better option as compared to oral and parenteral route in the management of acute status epilepticus.
Right Bundle Branch Block: Current Considerations
Authors: Ikeda Takanori
Published: July 2020

RBBB, a pattern seen on the 12-lead ECG, results when normal electrical activity in the
His-Purkinje system is interrupted for some reason. The normal sequence of activation is altered in
RBBB, with a resultant characteristic appearance on the ECG manifest by a widened QRS complex
and changes in the directional vectors of the R and S waves. This ECG pattern is often seen in
clinical practice and generally regarded as benign. The anatomy, epidemiology, causes, symptoms,
ECG findings and diagnosis, differential diagnosis in ECG, treatment, complications, prognosis,
with respect to RBBB are outlined here, demonstrating some typical ECGs of RBBB.
Recent Approaches to Isolating and Culturing Mouse Bone Marrowderived Mesenchymal Stromal Stem Cells
Authors: Abdallah Basem M. , Khattab Hany M.
Published: July 2020

The isolation and culture of murine Bone Marrow-derived Mesenchymal stromal Stem Cells
(mBMSCs) have attracted great interest in terms of the pre-clinical applications of stem cells in tissue
engineering and regenerative medicine. In addition, culturing mBMSCs is important for studying the
molecular mechanisms of bone remodeling using relevant transgenic mice. Several factors have created
challenges in the isolation and high-yield expansion of homogenous mBMSCs; these factors include
low frequencies of Bone Marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal Stem Cells (BMSCs) in bone
marrow, variation among inbred mouse strains, contamination with Haematopoietic Progenitor Cells
(HPCs), the replicative senescence phenotype and cellular heterogeneity. In this review, we provide an
overview of nearly all protocols used for isolating and culturing mBMSCs with the aim of clarifying
the most important guidelines for culturing highly purified mBMSC populations retaining in vitro and
in vivo differentiation potential.
Impact of Cannabis-Based Medicine on Alzheimer’s Disease by Focusing on the Amyloid β-Modifications: A Systematic Study
Authors: Farkhondeh Tahereh , Khan Haroon , Aschner Michael , Samini Fariborz , Pourbagher-Shahri Ali M. , Aramjoo Hamed , Roshanravan Babak , Hoyte Christopher , Mehrpour Omid , Samarghandian Saeed
Published: July 2020

Deposition of Amyloid-beta (Aβ) peptide in the brain is the leading source of the onset and progression of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). Recent studies have suggested that anti-amyloidogenic agents may be a suitable therapeutic strategy for AD. The current review was proposed to address the beneficial effects of cannabis-based drugs for the treatment of AD, focusing primarily on Aβ modifications. Keywords related to AD, Aβ, and cannabis-based on MeSH were identified and were searched in PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Ovid-Medline, and Web of Science from inception until 15 March 2020. The full text of identified papers was obtained and assessed based on exclusion and inclusion criteria. The review is based on articles that have focused on AD and the amyloidogenic pathway. A total of 17 studies were identified based on the inclusion criteria; however, nine studies qualified for this systematic review. The maximum and minimum cannabis dosages, mostly CBD and THC in animal studies, were 0.75 and 50 mg/kg, respectively. Cannabis (CBD and THC) was injected for 10 to 21 days. The findings of the 9 articles indicated that cannabis-based drugs might modulate Aβ modifications in several AD models. Our findings establish that cannabis-based drugs inhibited the progression of AD by modulating Aβ modifications.
COVID-19 Challenge: What Has Been Done and What Must Be Done?
Authors: Belenkiy I. G.
Published: July 2020

The sequence of systemic measures to combat the COVID-19 pandemic in Russia is described. Some other countries experience of providing the specialized trauma care in a pandemic has been summarized. Almost everywhere, strict measures of infection prevention and treatment were introduced in stages. To date, there are the following generally accepted measures: discontinuation of planned surgeries, screening of emergency patients on COVID-19 with the subsequent separation of patient flows, the maximum reduction of hospital stay length. The special attention should be paid to personal protective equipment. The organizational and medical measures necessary for prevention of such pandemics in the future are described, namely equipping sanitary triage posts, creating a stock of personal protective equipment and disinfectants, developing a plan for transforming general hospitals into hospitals for infectious patients with the allocation of a primary patient reception post and their subsequent distribution into the green or red zones. The importance of pre-operative bed day reduction, telemedicine technologies and the need of healthcare financing increase to solve the tasks are substantiated.