bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Caracterização dos resíduos sólidos do município de São José de Espinharas (PB)
Authors: Morais Palloma Damascena , Costa Tarcisio Valério da , Seabra Filho Genival Quirino
Published: May 2020

As características dos resíduos sólidos urbanos (RSU) variam entre os municípios, assim, a sua caracterização torna-se de grande importância para o planejamento da gestão e gerenciamento pela administração pública. Portanto, o presente trabalho teve o objetivo de caracterizar os RSU qualitativamente e quantitativamente do município de São José de Espinharas - PB, visando contribuir para o planejamento e gerenciamento de sua gestão integrada. O estudo foi realizado com um total de amostragem de 100 residências, através do método de quarteamento, que consiste no processo de divisão em quatro partes iguais de uma amostra pré-homogeneizada. O estudo obteve do total da produção de resíduos diários, 56,59% de matéria orgânica, 27,96% de material reciclável e 15,45% de rejeitos. Também foi obtido o valor de resíduo sólido per capita de 0,4139 kg por dia, com uma estimativa de 1,98 tonelada diário. O estudo colaborou para o monitoramento ambiental no sistema de coleta de RSU.
Compostagem em reator de tabaco de cigarro contrabandeado e resíduo orgânico doméstico: estudo físico, químico e espectroscópico
Authors: Campos Sandro Xavier de , Da Silva Cleber Pinto , Zittel Rosimara
Published: May 2020

O presente trabalho teve como objetivo estudar a compostagem em reator de resíduos orgânicos domésticos (RSO) misturados a serragem e tabaco de cigarros contrabandeados.  Para o monitoramento do processo foram realizadas análises físico-químicas (pH, temperatura, umidade e C/N) e espectroscópicas (UV-Vis e IV). As análises de relação C / N revelaram que o composto atingiu a maturidade dentro de um período de 60 dias de tratamento. As análises espectroscópicas de UV-Vis e IV mostraram a eficiência do processo, indicando a degradação de compostos de estrutura mais simples e a formação de substâncias mais complexas (substâncias húmicas). Assim, concluiu-se que a proposta de tratamento dos resíduos estudados por meio do reator foi eficiente
Análise histórica da geração, coleta e destinação dos resíduos sólidos urbanos no Brasil
Authors: Silva Cristine Santos de Souza da , Boll Natália , Zanin Gabrielle Brehm , Peretti Gabriela , Souza Denise Santos de
Published: May 2020

O crescimento populacional e a alteração no estilo de vida das pessoas fomentam o consumismo e acarretam o aumento na geração de Resíduos Sólidos Urbanos - RSU, tornando a sua destinação, um grande desafio para a gestão pública. Esse artigo apresenta uma análise histórica da geração, coleta e destinação dos RSU no Brasil, no período que compreende os anos de 2007 a 2018. A pesquisa foi realizada a partir da análise dos dados presentes nos relatórios da ABRELPE e analisados por meio de ferramentas estatísticas. Como resultado, observou-se que a geração de RSU teve seu crescimento anual mais acentuado no ano de 2012, onde houve um aumento de 18,49 % em relação ao ano anterior. Já com relação à coleta, observou-se que maior índice de ocorreu no ano de 2018, embora o índice per capita de 2015 tenha sido o mais significativo. Com relação à destinação, há um percentual considerável de RSU disposto de forma inadequada, sendo esse fenômeno observado em todos os anos analisados.
First study of sea turtle strandings in Algeria (western Mediterranean) and associated threats: 2016–2017
Authors: Belmahi Alae Eddine , Belmahi Youcef , Benabdi Mouloud , Bouziani Amaria Latefa , Darna Samira Ait , Bouslah Yahia , Bendoula Mohamed , Bouderbala Mohamed
Published: May 2020

Between December 2015 and December 2017 a total of 63 sea turtles were recorded as being stranded along the Algerian coast. The loggerhead sea turtle Caretta caretta was the most commonly stranded species (n = 44) (69.8%), followed by the leatherback Dermochelys coriacea (n = 18) (28.6%) and the green turtle Chelonia mydas (n = 1). There was a slight dominance of the adult size class for stranded loggerhead turtles, while, for the leatherback, late juveniles and adults prevailed. Most loggerhead turtles stranded during the summer months (July and August), whereas most leatherbacks stranded during winter. The breakdown of the strandings by region shows a slight dominance along the western and central shores for C. caretta and a clear dominance in the west for D. coriacea.

The primary cause of death was determined in 50.8% of the stranded turtles. Regarding the evidence of interactions with humans the major cause of stranding in loggerhead turtles was incidental catch by artisanal fisheries, followed by boats’ collisions. The main causes of leatherback strandings were boats’ collisions. Algerian data show that human activities affect loggerhead turtles and also prove a significant presence of the leatherback turtle on this coast.
Acheroxenylla (Collembola, Hypogastruridae), first record from the Americas with description of a new species from a Peruvian cave
Authors: Palacios-Vargas José G.
Published: May 2020

A new diagnosis for Acheroxenylla Ellis, 1976 is proposed, based on new characteristics recently discovered in other species of the genus. A new species living on guano from oil bird guacharo is described and illustrated and its Barcode Index Number (BIN) from BOLD System is given. A key for the identification of the four known species is also included.
Les ressorts de l’emprise subjective au travail dans un établissement automobile
Authors: Bisignano Mara
Published: May 2020

Cet article analyse les formes de l’emprise dans un établissement d’un groupe automobile italo-américain. À partir d’une démarche d’enquête monographique (travail documentaire sur la période 1993-2014, exploitation de matériaux de seconde main de type empirique et entretiens semi-directifs auprès de salariés), il montre les ressorts sur les collectifs de travail d’un système de métrique des temps appelé Ergo -uas ( Ergonomie- Universal Analysing System ). Ce système qui permet une amélioration à la fois de la productivité et des conditions de travail a des implications sur la santé physique et psychologique des salariés à partir du moment où il leur est demandé une implication plus importante, aussi de type cognitif, dans l’accomplissement de leurs tâches. Plus l’activité de travail demande de l’autonomie et de l’initiative ouvrière en sollicitant pour cela la subjectivité des travailleurs, plus ces derniers expérimentent des situations paradoxales dans l’exécution concrète de leur travail.
Déclin et résistance des syndicats d’eau potable. Une analyse des effets ambivalents de la réforme territoriale de 2015
Authors: Groupe NOTReau  , Barbier Rémi , Wittner Christophe
Published: May 2020

La loi portant Nouvelle Organisation Territoriale de la République, dite loi NOTRe (2015), opère un bouleversement du paysage institutionnel des services d’eau et d’assainissement. Selon nos projections, le nombre de syndicats exerçant une compétence dans le domaine de l’eau ou de l’assainissement pourrait à terme être divisé par dix. L’article montre cependant que la conduite locale de la réforme n’a pas été dirigée systématiquement contre l’institution syndicale, et que, par ailleurs, sur le « marché des compétences », les services d’eau et d’assainissement ne sont pas attractifs au point de conduire les établissements publics de coopération intercommunale à fiscalité propre à vouloir absolument s’en emparer quand ils en ont la possibilité. Les syndicats, notamment les plus puissants, ont été en outre plutôt réactifs après une première phase de déstabilisation. Ces institutions continueront par conséquent à desservir une fraction significative de la population.
Une confiscation institutionnelle de l’intercommunalité : la permanence du syndicat des transports urbains lyonnais (1959-1974)
Authors: Lévêque Antoine
Published: May 2020

Cet article s’interroge sur la permanence d’un syndicat mixte de transport en commun alors que la réforme territoriale engagée depuis les années 1960 en France encourage le renforcement des structures intercommunales. L’étude de la création de la communauté urbaine de Lyon en 1969 révèle les entreprises développées par les élus locaux de premier plan pour conserver des équilibres politiques et la hiérarchie entre les élus. L’institution syndicale permet de maintenir un espace restreint des décisions en matière de transport qui conforte les intérêts des maires des deux ville-centres de l’agglomération. Cette confiscation politique des débats concernant la répartition des ressources intercommunales joue notamment contre la desserte des principaux foyers de peuplement de la banlieue populaire.
L’innovation, un instinct de survie ?
Authors: Simon Laurent , Auger Claudine
Published: May 2020

En quelques heures à peine, la vie courante peut changer du tout au tout. Les entreprises qui veulent survivre à une crise doivent-elles faire preuve de créativité ? Gestion a profité du confinement sanitaire pour s’entretenir à distance avec Laurent Simon, professeur titulaire au Département d’entrepreneuriat et innovation de HEC Montréal, sur la façon dont les entreprises innovent quand leur univers bascule.
Icône culturelle et figure de la solidarité : la présence médiatique d’Angela Davis en RFA au début des années 1970
Authors: Gerund Katharina , Moine Caroline
Published: May 2020

Cette contribution analyse comment le mouvement de solidarité avec Angela Davis s’est développé en RFA à travers divers médias : la presse, la chanson protestataire et les publications militantes. Elle montre comment s’est construite la figure d’Angela Davis comme icône culturelle et figure de la solidarité, et comment cette figure a dû s‘adapter à certains agendas politiques. L‘attention médiatique internationale et les mobilisations de solidarité à l’échelle globale ont sans aucun doute influencé le dénouement de son procès, mais, dans le même temps, différents acteurs ont su utiliser la figure et le cas d’Angela Davis dans leurs propres intérêts.
La libéralisation de l’ORTF à l’épreuve du contrôle de l’information. Pratiques ordinaires et scandalisation pendant « l’expérience Desgraupes » (1969-1972)
Authors: Sécail Claire
Published: May 2020

À partir de sources institutionnelles (procès-verbaux du Conseil d’administration et de la Commission de l’information de l’ORTF, notes internes, directives et bulletins de presses) et audiovisuelles, cet article interroge la mise en place et les limites de « l’expérience Chaban-Delmas / Desgraupes » (1969-1972), première tentative de libéralisation de l’audiovisuel français. Il s’agit de mettre en lumière le fonctionnement interne du contrôle de l’information en dégageant ses principales caractéristiques mais également de comprendre, en élargissant la réflexion à l’écosystème médiatique, le rôle de la presse dans la mise en scandale autour de cas de censures et la légitimation d’une cause nouvelle, celle de la libéralisation de l’ORTF.
Micro-célébrités “non-alignées” et la sphère publique en réseau en Syrie : fragmentation et “a-synchronization” des médias
Authors: Badran Yazan , Angelis Enrico De
Published: May 2020

Pendant les révoltes arabes de 2011, les nouveaux médias ont été utilisés comme instruments efficaces d’expression et de mobilisation. En réduisant les coûts nécessaires à l'organisation d'actions collectives, les nouvelles technologies ont introduit des formes innovantes de lutte politique basées sur un individualisme en réseau et sur ce que Bennet et Segerber (2012) appellent “connective action”, et non sur des institutions structurées ou des organisations hiérarchiques. Pendant les révoltes arabes, une “synchronisation” (Alexander et Aouragh, 2014) entre médias nouveaux et traditionnels a permis, dans certains cas, l’émergence de récits anti-hégémoniques capables de créer un large consensus en faveur des mobilisations. Mais les limites du “web 2.0” en termes de dynamiques de la sphère publique et comme espace au sein duquel organiser des actions collectives sont également apparues.Dans cet article, nous nous focaliserons en particulier sur le cas de la sphère publique en réseau syrienne. Nous maintenons qu’en Syrie la sphère virtuelle apparaît dès le début des protestations comme un espace contesté au sein duquel les activistes, à la différence de ce qui s'est produit dans d'autres pays arabes, ne sont pas parvenus à imposer leurs récits. Au lieu d’une sphère publique basée sur la connexion, les réseaux en Syrie apparaissent fragmentés et basés sur la visibilité d’individus spécifiques. Pour décrire les dynamiques propres à cette fragmentation, nous nous arrêterons en particulier sur ce qu’on a défini comme des micro-célébrités “non-alignées” : la révolte syrienne a vu l’émergence de personnes en ligne qui construisent leur identité virtuelle sur la base de récits individuels, en opposition avec les principaux récits collectifs circulant sur la scène politique syrienne après 2011.En ce sens, l’importance des micro-célébrités “non-alignées” doit être considérée comme l'une des causes, et en même temps comme l'une des conséquences, de l’émergence d’une sphère publique en réseaux caractérisée par la fragmentation et une manque de synchronisation entre les médias, plutôt que sur la coordination et la collaboration.
Journey to EDRMS Solution in Zimbabwe Public Sector
Authors: Magama Blessed , Nduna Victor
Published: May 2020

E-government initiatives by the government of Zimbabwe and the increased use of computer-based systems by the public sector have seen an increased generation of digital records in the day-to-day conduct of business. The National Archives of Zimbabwe is taking some measures to manage these proliferating digital records in a manner that guarantees their authenticity and continued availability. This chapter explores the journey to digital records management in the Zimbabwe public sector, with specific focus on steps followed to develop the Public Sector Digital Records Management Framework (PSDRMF), Statement of User Requirements (SOURS), and efforts to acquire an EDRMS solution. The chapter provides highlights on some achievements, experiences, and lessons learnt in the process.
Cultural Communications of Mainland United States-Based Organizations and Their Hawaiian Workforces
Authors: Wright Erik S. , Baker Rose
Published: May 2020

The Hawaiian Islands are a diverse melting pot of people, cultures, and languages that make doing business in the state a unique challenge for organizations based on the mainland United States. While Hawaii is indeed the 50th state in the union, culturally they are more closely aligned with Asia and other Polynesian cultures than the United States as a whole. Doing business in Hawaii can often feel as though one is doing business in a foreign country, a place where one only partially speaks the language. Understanding these cultural differences and shaping communication styles to align with the cultural values of the Hawaiian sub-culture is essential to success for any organization planning to start operations in Hawaii. Through a process of cultural analysis, organizations can more effectively manage change within their operations and engage their Hawaiian workforces with great success.
Nano-Biosensors Tech and IPM in Plant Protection to Respond to Climate Change Challenges in Morocco
Authors: Mokhtari Wafaa , Achouri Mohamed , Remah Abdellah , Chtaina Noureddine , Boubaker Hassan
Published: May 2020

In this chapter, the authors introduce two research axes: Part A, nano-biosensors as ad-hoc technologies designed to meet plant diagnostic sensitivity and specificity needs at point of care, and Part B, the study of the interaction of drought and infection stresses in crops investigating bio-control potential antagonists in developing integrated approach (IPM) for disease control measures in crops system. The first part will be revising most used nano-biosensors in plant pathogens detection using different platforms in greenhouses, on-field, and during postharvest. A special focus will be on optical and voltametric immuno/DNA sensors application in plant protection. The last part will present case studies of using nanoparticles functionalized with antibody/DNA for detecting pathogenic Pseudomonas sp, mosaic viruses, Botrytis cinereal, and Fusarium mycotoxins (DON). The second part will be interpreting experimental results of a case study on evaluating bio-control efficacy of local Trichoderma spp. using root dips treatment in Fusarium solani-green beans pathosystem as a model.
Comprehensive Ontological Model for Senior Wellness Activity Recognition in Smart Homes
Authors: Khallouki Hajar , Benlamri Rachid , Yassine Abdulsalalm
Published: May 2020

There are several works in the field of smart homes for healthcare, with different types of sensors used to monitor medical, behavioral and environmental parameters for patients. In the context of smart home for the elderly, the use of sensors needs to be adapted to respect the privacy of elders and to work passively without the need for caregiver assistance. Most research in this area focused on activity recognition (e.g. eating, sleeping, watching TV, etc.) which may be defined as the identification of a sequence of actions (e.g. using microwave, lying down, etc.). In this chapter, we propose a comprehensive ontological model for well-being activity recognition in smart home. Our approach takes into account different aspects of the well-being context such as patient profile, object being used to perform the activity, the time of running the activity, its location, etc. In order to validate the proposed ontology and reason on it, we perform a set of queries and inference rules.
Celebrating Transformations Through STEM Storytelling
Authors: Leggett-Robinson Pamela M.
Published: May 2020

Storytelling describes the social and cultural activity of sharing stories. Every culture has its own stories or narratives, which are shared as a means of entertainment, education, cultural preservation, or instilling moral values. In the STEM culture, women of color tell their stories about overcoming barriers and obstacles. Their stories echo familiar themes (the lack of role models, gender bias, and/or cultural racism within the organization/institution) as well as shed light on decades of programs continuing to fall short in empowering and encouraging women of color, thus resulting in an exodus from the STEM pipeline. More disturbing is their stories are often silenced or filled with embellishments and improvisations by the institutions or organizations they faithfully served. The chapter reflects on a “typical” story about a woman of color in STEM higher education. It takes the reader on a journey from entry to departure from the “fairy tale pipeline” of higher education. It is a story of struggle, transformation, and love, within the culture of STEM.
Sustainability of Mandatory Pension Insurance in the Circular Economy
Authors: Ilic Biljana Stojan , Djukic Gordana P. , Balaban Mladenka M.
Published: May 2020

The main characteristic of pension systems is financial stability. The authors will present some models of the pension system, economics models such as the theory of income uncertainty, overlapping generations' model. The authors will present the interrelation of employment, population, and circular economy, trying to improve the existing pension system in Serbia. The circular economy is a response to the growing needs of humanity. It is referred to as sustainable development in all the spheres of human life. The circular economies can also refer to the sustainability of the pension system, which is linked to the quality of life. The quality of life is part of sustainable development as its social component. The chapter provides an overview of the sustainability of the pension system by reducing the costs with employment increasing. As an example of good practice, the authors present Australia and Chile in a small analysis that indicates pension fund sustainability. This practice can serve as an example of the improvement of the pension system in Serbia and similar smaller countries.
Youth Entrepreneurship in the Circular Economy
Authors: Igbinakhase Idahosa
Published: May 2020

The chapter focuses on the critical analysis of youth entrepreneurship in a circular economy. Youth entrepreneurs are important stakeholders in the circular economy operated in both developing and developed business environments. Youth entrepreneurial business activities include renewable energy, recycling, waste management, and organic food production. Youth entrepreneurial business activities are known to create both social and economic impacts in business environments despite the presence of several limiting issues and challenges that affect their overall potential as circular value creators in the circular economy. Some challenges experienced by youth entrepreneurs in a circular economy include waste prevention and lack of new and innovative circular technologies. In addition, key solutions to the challenges faced by youth entrepreneurs in a circular economy were discussed and analyzed.
Women's Power as Employees and Entrepreneurs in the Circular Economy
Authors: Patrick Harold Andrew , Mukherjee Ujjal
Published: May 2020

This chapter measures optimism in terms of success factors and a lack of success factors. The purpose of this chapter is to study the personality and optimism level of women employees and women entrepreneurs in the circular economy. Responses from 121 women employees from five employment sectors and 103 women entrepreneurs from five different sectors were surveyed for the chapter. Results indicated there was a significant difference among women entrepreneurs and women employees in terms of group directedness, compliance, and self-confidence. The results of the chapter will have both theoretical and practical implications for the long-standing quest to discover the similarities and differences between women's entrepreneurial personality and women employees. The chapter will contribute to the entrepreneurship literature by testing the influence of personality traits on the optimism level of the entrepreneur and comparing the same with the employees.
Design Thinking Perspective in Entrepreneurship Education
Authors: Dzingirai Mufaro
Published: May 2020

To stimulate the exploitation of entrepreneurial opportunities in a circular economy, there is a growing need for educators, especially in the context of universities, to make a paradigm shift from conventional entrepreneurship teaching methodologies to design thinking. As such, the call for a design-based entrepreneurship curriculum has attracted the interests of scholars, researchers, educators, and policymakers in recent years. Unfortunately, little is known about how design thinking processes and tools are being incorporated into entrepreneurship education. Consequently, this chapter captures in detail the worldwide practices and controversies mainly associated with entrepreneurship education from a design thinking standpoint, reviews entrepreneurship education in relation to entrepreneurship development in a circular economy, captures perceptions of academics about design-based entrepreneurship education, proposes recommendations to policymakers and practitioners, and identifies research gaps for further studies.
Entrepreneurship Development Interventions as a Pragmatic Approach to Political and Economic Restructuring in Nigeria
Authors: Raimi Lukman , Yusuf Hassan
Published: May 2020

This study discusses the imperative of entrepreneurship development interventions as pragmatic responses to political and economic restructuring in Nigeria. The qualitative research method, which entails a systematic collection of information extracted from government documents and scholarly articles, was adopted. The extracted information was critically reviewed and synthesized using content analysis. The chapter found that political and economic structures in Nigeria are largely ineffective and require urgent restructuring. For political restructuring, there is a need for constitutional amendments, while for economic restructuring, the establishment of industrial clusters to reinvigorate entrepreneurship development interventions is imperative. The study concludes with policy implications and suggestions for further research.
Influence of Raw Material Properties on Parameters of Injection Press during the Injection of Composites Based Biomass and Plastic Waste
Authors: Križan Peter , Bábics Jozef , Beniak Juraj , Matúš Miloš
Published: May 2020

The main aim of this paper is to present the research findings which come out from the experimental determination of the influence of input raw material properties and composition on the operating parameters of an injection press during the injection of biomass-plastic composites (BPC). During the injection process, important operating parameters such as injection speed, injection pressure and the temperature profile along the chamber can be recognized. In this research study, the aim was to produce BPCs of an acceptable and competitive level of quality which is determined from the final mechanical properties of BPCs. Using a variety combination of influencing variables the final quality of composites and also the operating parameters of the injection moulding press can be improved. Raw waste material variables influence, especially (a type of plastic matrix, type of biomass, particle size, moisture content) and biomass/plastic concentration ratio can be recognized during the production of composites. Their effect can be seen from the quality indicators and from the operating parameters of the injection press which has a direct impact on the production costs. The paper deals with the determination of the impact and the relationship between the input raw material variables and the operating parameters of the injection process (pressure, speed, and temperature profile). The experimental research findings were obtained using a semi-operational injection moulding press where the injection is provided by a working screw. As the input raw material, wheat straw and spruce sawdust, HDPE plastic matrix and recycled HDPE, represented by lids from PET bottles, was used. The effect of the input raw material composition was determined according to a combination and default levels of biomass/HDPE concentration ratio, using recycled HDPE instead of virgin HDPE and particle size of biomass.
Numerical Simulation of Forging Process in Deform 3D
Authors: Hajdu Štefan
Published: May 2020

The main purpose of this contribution is to create a methodical procedure for numerical simulation of the forging process using FEM of a real part, which is produced in three forming operations. Then this process will be realised step by step for creation simulation model in the simulation software DEFORM 3D, where the output data will be calculated on an example forging process on real component. The obtained results are then compared with reality to determine the degree of match between simulation results and real component. The 3D models of dies for each operation as well as some input parameters were obtained from HKS Forge. This company is leading manufacturer of die forging for the engineering industry in Europe. Proposed methodical procedure can serve as a basis for creating additional simulation models that could simulate the wear of these dies during long time of use.
Hyperelastic Material Characterization: How the Change in Mooney-Rivlin Parameter Values Effect the Model Curve
Authors: Keerthiwansa Rohitha , Javořík Jakub , Rusnáková Soňa , Kledrowetz Jan , Gross Petr
Published: May 2020

Mooney-Rivlin is the most frequently used model from all models used for mechanical characterization of the hyperelestic materials. Simplicity, applicability in a large rage of strains are the key reasons for regular use of this model. However, depending on the number of parameters, the Mooney model can take several forms. While, nine parameter being the highest order noticed, two parameter model is the most commonly found form in the current research domain. Since two parameter model used repetitively, we investigated the effect of incremental change in two material constant values one at a time, on model curve. As Drucker Stability Criterion is governing the extreme values of material parameters, changes in the model curves are discussed related to it. Resultant effects on stress-strain curves due to change in parameter values were examined and physical effect on the characterization is interpreted accordingly.
The Materials and Technologies Used in the Process of Developing a Rotary Module with an Unlimited Degree Rotation
Authors: Hrivniak Lukáš , Šašala Michal , Svetlík Jozef , Stejskal Tomáš
Published: May 2020

The article deals with the process of the development of components, selection and use of materials required to assemble an universal rotation module. The use of the right materials and production processes is an important factor in the development of any new machines. The paper first describes the function of the universal rotation module. Furthermore, it focuses on the development process of selected parts of the prototype, especially the outer cover of the module as well as other important parts. The main problem is to correctly design and manufacture the module so that the engine and other mechanical parts can be placed inside. The technologies that were used in the development of the rotary module are metal machining and plastic printing by additive technology. It also deals with materials that were used in the production of the first generation of the functional prototype and in the development and testing in the pre-production phase.
Duration of Mechanical Ventilation in an Adult Intensive Care Unit After Introduction of Sedation and Pain Scales
Authors: Williams Teresa Ann , Martin Suzanne , Leslie Gavin , Thomas Linda , Leen Timothy , Tamaliunas Sheralee , Lee K. Y. , Dobb Geoffrey
Published: May 2020

Background Sedation and analgesia scales promote a less-distressing experience in the intensive care unit and minimize complications for patients receiving mechanical ventilation.

Objectives To evaluate outcomes before and after introduction of scales for sedation and analgesia in a general intensive care unit.

Method A before-and-after design was used to evaluate introduction of the Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale and the Behavioral Pain Scale for patients receiving mechanical ventilation. Data were collected for 6 months before and 6 months after training in and introduction of the scales.

Results A total of 769 patients received mechanical ventilation for at least 6 hours (369 patients before and 400 patients after implementation). Age, scores on the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II, and diagnostic groups were similar in the 2 groups, but the after group had more men than did the before group. Duration of mechanical ventilation did not change significantly after the scales were introduced (median, 24 vs 28 hours). For patients who received mechanical ventilation for 96 hours or longer (24%), mechanical ventilation lasted longer after implementation of the scales (P =.03). Length of stay in the intensive care unit was similar in the 2 groups (P = .18), but patients received sedatives for longer after implementation (P=.01). By logistic regression analysis, APACHE II score (P <.001) and diagnostic group (P <.001) were independent predictors of mechanical ventilation lasting 96 hours or longer.

Conclusion Sedation and analgesia scales did not reduce duration of ventilation in an Australian intensive care unit.
Merocytic Dendritic Cells Compose a Conventional Dendritic Cell Subset with Low Metabolic Activity
Authors: Audiger Cindy , Fois Adrien , Thomas Alyssa L. , Janssen Edith , Pelletier Martin , Lesage Sylvie
Published: May 2020

Conventional dendritic cells (cDCs) are arguably the most potent APCs that induce the activation of naive T cells in response to pathogens. In addition, at steady-state, cDCs help maintain immune tolerance. Two subsets of cDCs have been extensively characterized, namely cDC1 and cDC2, each contributing differently to immune responses. Recently, another dendritic cell (DC) subset, termed merocytic DCs (mcDCs), was defined. In contrast to both cDC1 and cDC2, mcDCs reverse T cell anergy, properties that could be exploited to potentiate cancer treatments. Yet, whether mcDCs represent an unconventional DC or a cDC subset remains to be defined. In this article, we further characterize mcDCs and find that they bear true characteristics of cDC subsets. Indeed, as for cDCs, mcDCs express the cDC-restricted transcription factor Zbtb46 and display very potent APC activity. In addition, mcDC population dynamics parallels that of cDC1 and cDC2 in both reconstitution kinetic studies and parabiotic mice. We next investigated their relatedness to cDC1 and cDC2 and demonstrate that mcDCs are not dependent on cDC1-related Irf8 and Batf3 transcription factors, are dependent on Irf4, a cDC2-specific transcription factor, and express a unique transcriptomic signature. Finally, we find that cDC1, cDC2, and mcDCs all present with different metabolic phenotypes, in which mcDCs exhibit the lowest glucose uptake activity and mcDC survival is the least affected by glycolysis inhibition. Defining the properties of mcDCs in mice may help identify a functionally equivalent subset in humans leading to the development of innovative cancer immunotherapies.
The role played by health resistance, coping response, and smoke damage perceptions in smoking threat appeal campaigns
Authors: Pirrone Concetta , Platania Silvia Maria , Castellano Sabrina , Hrabovsky Shari , Caponnetto Pasquale , Commodari Elena
Published: May 2020

Threat appeal campaigns have been widely used to induce people to change their bad smoking habits by adopting a better approach in favor of a healthier lifestyle. Social marketers who create this kind of messages tend to believe in the persuasive power of fear arousal. For most people, fear has an important consequence on behavior, leading them to search for means of deleting or coping with the unhealthy behavior. As demonstrated by the Ordered Protection Motivation Model, individual differences such as health resistance play an important role in determining, or not, a change of behavior when faced with the threat. This study explores the relationship between health resistance and attitude towards smoking behavior and examines the mediating impact of coping response and smoke damage perception in a sample of 260 university students, smokers and non-smokers. Results highlight that health resistance has an important direct effect on smoking attitude, but, it seems to be mitigated by the smoke severity of the damage shown in graphic images. The comparison between smokers and nonsmokers allowed us to understand the role of reactance in these two groups, and the significance that anti-smoking campaigns assume. Our results offer important suggestions for future decisions about social threat appeals campaigns.
Smoking behavior and psychological dynamics during COVID-19 social distancing and stay-at-home policies: A survey
Authors: Caponnetto Pasquale , Inguscio Lucio , Saitta Claudio , Maglia Marilena , Benfatto Francesca , Polosa Riccardo
Published: May 2020

During the COVID-19 pandemic, about 60 million of Italians stayed at home. These circumstances may generate exceptional challenges and stress for people who regularly use cigarettes, ecigarettes, heated tobacco products, dual users, former smokers and never smokers. Here, we present results from a study that was aimed at surveying smoking behaviour and psychological dynamics during the Italian COVID-19 social distancing and stay-at-home policies. Participants living in Italy were invited to complete an online brief questionnaire. A questionnaire was prepared and uploaded in an online survey tool. They were asked to participate regardless of their current smoking status and were divided in seven subgroups. In total, 1825 participants were included in the analysis. Exclusive cigarette smokers; Dual users of cigarette and ecigarettes; Dual users of cigarette and heated tobacco products; Former smokers; Exclusive users of e-cigarette; Exclusive users of heated tobacco products; never smoker. Dual users of cigarette and e-cigarette and exclusive cigarette smokers perceived that their daily consumption has slightly decreased. Exclusive cigarette smokers and exclusive e-cigarette users changed the way of purchasing products. Most exclusive cigarette smokers have considered quitting but most exclusive e-cigarette users have not considered stopping the use of e-cigarettes. In former smokers’ group, about one third of participants declared thoughts about starting to smoke again and in never smokers’ group few participants declared intention to start smoking. The COVID-19 era could be considered a “transition” phase and as such requires a search for a new balance. These changes in everyday habits can be a significant moment to use established and emerging strategies to create a definitive smoke-free world.
Additivity of higher rho invariant for the topological structure group from a differential point of view
Authors: Jiang Baojie , Liu Hongzhi
Published: May 2020

In [16], Weinberger, Xie, and Yu proved that higher rho invariant associated to homotopy equivalence defines a group homomorphism from the topological structure group to the analytic structure group,

K

-theory of certain geometric

C^*

-algebras, by piecewise-linear approach. In this paper, we adapt part of Weinberger, Xie, and Yu’s work, to give a differential geometry theoretic proof of the additivity of the map from the topological structure group to

K

-theory of certain

C^*

-algebra induced by higher rho invariant associated to orientation-preserving homotopy equivalence.
The anisotropic Calderón problem for singular metrics of warped product type: the borderline between uniqueness and invisibility
Authors: Daudé Thierry , Kamran Niky , Nicoleau François
Published: May 2020

In this paper, we investigate the anisotropic Calderón problem on cylindrical Riemannian manifolds with boundary having two ends and equipped with singular metrics ofwarped product type, that iswhose coefficients only depend on the horizontal direction of the cylinder. By singular, we mean that these coefficients are positive almost everywhere and belong to some

L^p, 1 \leq p \leq \infty

spaces only. Using the recent developments on Weyl–Titchmarsh’s theory for singular Sturm–Liouville operators, we prove that the local Dirichlet to Neumann maps at each end are well defined and determine the metric uniquely if

Eventually, we show (in the warped product case and for zero frequency) that these uniqueness results are sharp by giving simple counterexamples for a class of singular metrics whose coefficients do not belong to the critical

L^p

space. All these counterexamples lead in fact to a region of space that is invisible to boundary measurements.
Low-Duty Inertia Dynamometer Hydraulic Brake Wear Test Procedures for Vehicles Above 4536 kg (10000 pounds) of GVWR
Authors:   Truck and Bus Hydraulic Brake Committee
Published: May 2020

This Recommended Practice is derived from OEM and tier-1 laboratory tests and applies to two-axle multipurpose passenger vehicles, or trucks with a GVWR above 4536 kg (10 000 pounds) equipped with hydraulic disc or drum service brakes. Before conducting testing for a specific brake sizes or under specific test conditions, review, agree upon, and document with the test requestor any deviations from the test procedure. Also, the applicable criteria for the final test results and wear rates deemed as significantly different require definition, assessment, and proper documentation; especially as this will determine whether or not Method B testing is needed.

This Recommended Practice does not evaluate or quantify other brake system characteristics such as performance, noise, judder, ABS performance, or braking under extreme temperatures or speeds. Minimum performance requirements are not part of this recommended practice. Consistency and margin of pass/fail of the minimum requirements related to wear rates and wear behavior can be assessed as part of the project in coordination with the test requestor.

NOTE: This Recommended Practice uses the unit conversion and rounding techniques from the NIST Special Publication 811. This to ensure the use of standard conversion factors and to determine the appropriate number of significant digits to ensure the Rounding Error (RE) of the converted unit is smaller than or similar to the RE of the original English or Imperial unit.
D-dimer and mortality in COVID-19: a self-fulfilling prophecy or a pathophysiological clue?
Authors: Breakey Neal , Escher Robert
Published: May 2020

The emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) as a global phenomenon has presented clinicians around the world with multiple challenges. Thromboembolic events are recognised complications of viral infection, but the diagnosis of an acute pulmonary thrombotic complication in the context of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) can be challenging because of the similarities of presentation, logistical considerations of diagnosis in a patient isolated for infection control reasons and the effects of cognitive errors in diagnostic reasoning. We present the case of a patient who was diagnosed with a pulmonary thrombotic complication during inpatient care for COVID-19. The haemostasis parameters we observed, including increased levels of von Willebrand factor and factor VIII, point towards a relevant involvement of endothelial cells in patients with severe COVID-19. We suggest that it is possible to hypothesise a spectrum of secondarily acquired, prothrombotic coagulopathy mediated by the endothelial interaction with SARS-CoV-2 as a cause of mortality in a subset of patients with a complicated clinical course of COVID-19. We support the recommendation of thromboembolic chemoprophylaxis for inpatients with COVID-19 as a very minimum in the absence of strict contraindications, while recognising that pulmonary thrombotic complications can occur under standard thromboprophylaxis. We suggest that higher, possibly therapeutic levels of anticoagulation might be mandatory for a further subset of patients with COVID-19 where a discrepant evolution of C-reactive protein and D-dimer is observed. Therapeutic levels of anticoagulation are obligatory where new evidence of a macrovascular thrombotic complication has been documented. More research to delineate the macro- and microvascular thrombotic complications of COVID-19, and the therapeutic implications for this patient group is required.
Arbolado urbano. Estudio de caso: Reparto Hermanos Cruz, Pinar del Río, Cuba.
Authors: Bonilla Vichot Marta Margarita , Crespo Paredes Elizabeth , Medina Bonilla Darien Felipe
Published: May 2020

La calidad de vida de los pobladores de una zona urbana depende, en gran medida, del estado y la abundancia de espacios verdes existentes en ella o en sus proximidades. La investigación que se presenta recoge el estudio realizado en las áreas verdes del reparto Hermanos Cruz, municipio Pinar del Río, con el objetivo de caracterizar el arbolado urbano a partir de la composición, diversidad y percepción de los pobladores sobre sus funciones. Se procedió a seleccionar 11 áreas. A partir de la Norma Cubana de Áreas verdes (NC 677-1:2009), se clasificaron las mismas por su ubicación y función; se inventariaron las correspondientes a parques e instalaciones públicas, así como el arbolado viario. En este sentido, se identificaron: árboles de riesgo; principales conflictos; índice de riquezas; frecuencia relativa; y abundancia relativa; y se aplicaron encuestas a los pobladores para conocer su percepción sobre el arbolado urbano. Como resultados del estudio se obtuvo que, en la distribución de las especies por hábitos de crecimiento, se observa un predominio de los árboles, destacándose las familias Bignoniaceae, Malvaceae, Meliaceae, Caesalpinaceae, Annonaceae y Arecaceae como las más representadas. Con respecto al origen predominan las especies introducidas tanto para los árboles como para los arbustos. La riqueza de especies presenta una variación entre las diferentes áreas. Las personas consideran necesaria la presencia de los árboles en las ciudades y demuestran conocimientos acerca del arbolado en su entorno citadino, en cuanto a sus funciones y beneficios. Se realizan propuestas para incrementar las especies autóctonas.
Síntesis de polihidroxialcanoatos a partir de Scenedesmus acuminatus, como alternativa a los plásticos derivados del petróleo.
Authors: Vizcaíno Rodríguez Luz Adriana , Caro Becerra Juan Luis , Lujan Godínez Ramiro , Mayoral Ruiz Pedro Alonso , Parra J. Guadalupe Michel
Published: May 2020

El uso indiscriminado de plástico ocasiona problemas ambientales; se estima que el proceso de degradación requiere por lo menos de 500 años. Las estrategias para su reciclado requieren del desarrollo de tecnología y concientización de los usuarios. Las alternativas para su reemplazo con materias primas elaboradas mediante métodos biotecnológicos no son sostenibles, debido al elevado costo de producción comparado con los derivados del petróleo. Los polihidroxialcanoatos (PHA) son poliésteres clasificados en función de la longitud de cadena de los ácidos grasos, y sintetizados por microorganismos con propiedades similares al polipropileno. El presente estudio tiene como objetivo evaluar el potencial que poseen las cepas de Scenedesmus acuminatus para producir PHA. Se estableció una cinética de crecimiento con 30 tubos de ensayo que contenían 20 mL de medio de cultivo Bold y 5 mL de cepa. Se monitoreó con una frecuencia de 72 hla producción de ácidos grasos extracelulares y la biomasa celular. La determinación de ácidos grasos se realizó con la tinción negro sudan y microscopio compuesto con objetivo de 40X. A partir de los 15 días de cultivo se observaron ácidos grasos en el sobrenadante celular. La producción de ácidos grasos fue directamente proporcional a los días de incubación y de acuerdo con la literatura los PHA´s se producen en condiciones de estrés celular, cuando hay deficiencia de macronutrientes en el medio de cultivo y alta disponibilidad de fuente de carbono. Scenedesmus tiene la capacidad de emplear CO2 como fuente de carbono, lo cual reduce los costos de operación.
Linden trees are favourable host plants for phytoseiid generalists in urban environment
Authors: Kabicek Jan
Published: May 2020

The assemblages of phytoseiid mites on the leaves of Tilia cordata and T. platyphyllos planted in heterogeneous urban habitats were studied. Six phytoseiid species, namely, Euseius finlandicus, E. gallicus, Neoseiulella tiliarum, N. aceri, Paraseiulus talbii, and Typhlodromus (Typhlodromus) pyri, were found on the studied linden leaves. The results indicate that both T. cordata and T. platyphyllos may serve as favourable host plants for the generalists E. finlandicus and N. tiliarum in urban environments. Both generalist predatory species preferred sheltered leaf microhabitats. The first record of E. gallicus in central Europe and the consistent occurrence of other phytoseiid species on the surveyed linden trees confirm the important role of urban greenery in landscape biodiversity.