bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Barcoded Asaia bacteria enable mosquito in vivo screens and identify novel systemic insecticides and inhibitors of malaria transmission
Authors: Sturm Angelika , Vos Martijn W. , Henderson Rob , Eldering Maarten , Koolen Karin M. J. , Sheshachalam Avinash , Favia Guido , Samby Kirandeep , Herreros Esperanza , Dechering Koen J.
Published: December 2021

This work addresses the need for new chemical matter in product development for control of pest insects and vector-borne diseases. We present a barcoding strategy that enables phenotypic screens of blood-feeding insects against small molecules in microtiter plate-based arrays and apply this to discovery of novel systemic insecticides and compounds that block malaria parasite development in the mosquito vector. Encoding of the blood meals was achieved through recombinant DNA-taggedAsaiabacteria that successfully colonisedAedesandAnophelesmosquitoes. An arrayed screen of a collection of pesticides showed that chemical classes of avermectins, phenylpyrazoles, and neonicotinoids were enriched for compounds with systemic adulticide activity againstAnopheles. Using a luminescentPlasmodium falciparumreporter strain, barcoded screens identified 48 drug-like transmission-blocking compounds from a 400-compound antimicrobial library. The approach significantly increases the throughput in phenotypic screening campaigns using adult insects and identifies novel candidate small molecules for disease control.
CNNM proteins selectively bind to the TRPM7 channel to stimulate divalent cation entry into cells
Authors: Bai Zhiyong , Feng Jianlin , Franken Gijs A. C. , Al’Saadi Namariq , Cai Na , Yu Albert S. , Lou Liping , Komiya Yuko , Hoenderop Joost G. J. , de Baaij Jeroen H. F. , Yue Lixia , Runnels Loren W.
Published: December 2021

Magnesium is essential for cellular life, but how it is homeostatically controlled still remains poorly understood. Here, we report that members of CNNM family, which have been controversially implicated in both cellular Mg2+ influx and efflux, selectively bind to the TRPM7 channel to stimulate divalent cation entry into cells. Coexpression of CNNMs with the channel markedly increased uptake of divalent cations, which is prevented by an inactivating mutation to the channel’s pore. Knockout (KO) of TRPM7 in cells or application of the TRPM7 channel inhibitor NS8593 also interfered with CNNM-stimulated divalent cation uptake. Conversely, KO of CNNM3 and CNNM4 in HEK-293 cells significantly reduced TRPM7-mediated divalent cation entry, without affecting TRPM7 protein expression or its cell surface levels. Furthermore, we found that cellular overexpression of phosphatases of regenerating liver (PRLs), known CNNMs binding partners, stimulated TRPM7-dependent divalent cation entry and that CNNMs were required for this activity. Whole-cell electrophysiological recordings demonstrated that deletion of CNNM3 and CNNM4 from HEK-293 cells interfered with heterologously expressed and native TRPM7 channel function. We conclude that CNNMs employ the TRPM7 channel to mediate divalent cation influx and that CNNMs also possess separate TRPM7-independent Mg2+ efflux activities that contribute to CNNMs’ control of cellular Mg2+ homeostasis.
The impact of COVID-19 on clinical research for Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs): A case study of bubonic plague
Authors: Rasoanaivo Tsinjo Fehizoro , Bourner Josephine , Randriamparany Ravaka Niaina , Gamana Théodora Mayouya , Andrianaivoarimanana Voahangy , Raherivelo Mily Harijaona , Randriamampionona Harivelo , Rajerison Minoarisoa , Raberahona Mihaja , Salam Alex Paddy , Edwards Tansy , Olliaro Piero L. , Randremanana Rindra Vatosoa
Published: December 2021

Background

Among the many collaterals of the COVID-19 pandemic is the disruption of health services and vital clinical research. COVID-19 has magnified the challenges faced in research and threatens to slow research for urgently needed therapeutics for Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) and diseases affecting the most vulnerable populations. Here we explore the impact of the pandemic on a clinical trial for plague therapeutics and strategies that have been considered to ensure research efforts continue.

Methods

To understand the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the trial accrual rate, we documented changes in patterns of all-cause consultations that took place before and during the pandemic at health centres in two districts of the Amoron’I Mania region of Madagascar where the trial is underway. We also considered trends in plague reporting and other external factors that may have contributed to slow recruitment.

Results

During the pandemic, we found a 27% decrease in consultations at the referral hospital, compared to an 11% increase at peripheral health centres, as well as an overall drop during the months of lockdown. We also found a nation-wide trend towards reduced number of reported plague cases.

Discussion

COVID-19 outbreaks are unlikely to dissipate in the near future. Declining NTD case numbers recorded during the pandemic period should not be viewed in isolation or taken as a marker of things to come. It is vitally important that researchers are prepared for a rebound in cases and, most importantly, that research continues to avoid NTDs becoming even more neglected.
Influence of seasonal and climatic variables on coffee berry borer (Hypothenemus hampei Ferrari) flight activity in Hawaii
Authors: Johnson Melissa A. , Manoukis Nicholas C.
Published: December 2021

Coffee berry borer (CBB,Hypothenemus hampeiFerrari) is the most serious insect pest of coffee worldwide, yet little is known about the effect that weather variables have on CBB flight activity. We sampled flying female CBB adults bi-weekly over a three-year period using red funnel traps baited with an alcohol lure at 14 commercial coffee farms on Hawaii Island to characterize seasonal phenology and the relationship between flight activity and five weather variables. We captured almost 5 million scolytid beetles during the sampling period, with 81–93% of the trap catch comprised of CBB. Of the captured non-target beetles, the majority were tropical nut borer, black twig borer and a species ofCryphalus. Two major flight events were consistent across all three years: an initial emergence from January-April that coincided with early fruit development and a second flight during the harvest season from September-December. A generalized additive mixed model (GAMM) revealed that mean daily air temperature had a highly significant positive correlation with CBB flight; most flight events occurred between 20–26°C. Mean daily solar radiation also had a significant positive relationship with flight. Flight was positively correlated with maximum daily relative humidity at values below ~94%, and cumulative rainfall up to 100 mm; flight was also positively correlated with maximum daily wind speeds up to ~2.5 m/s, after which activity declined. Our findings provide important insight into CBB flight patterns across a highly variable landscape and can serve as a starting point for the development of flight prediction models.
Dissociation between red and white stimulus perception: A perimetric quantification of protanopic color vision deficiencies
Authors: Wetzel Denise , Ungewiss Judith , Wörner Michael , Wilhelm Helmut , Schiefer Ulrich
Published: December 2021

Significance

Horizontal visual field extension was assessed for red and white stimuli in subjects with protanopia using semi-automated kinetic perimetry. In contrast to a conventional anomaloscope, the “red/white dissociation ratio” (RWR) allows to describe protanopia numerically. For the majority of subjects with protanopia a restriction for faint red stimuli was found.

Purpose

Comparing the horizontal visual field extensions for red and white stimuli in subjects with protanopia and those with normal trichromacy and assessing the related intra-subject intra-session repeatability.

Methods

The subjects were divided into groups with protanopia and with normal trichromacy, based on color vision testing (HMC anomaloscope, Oculus, Wetzlar/FRG). Two stimulus characteristics, III4e and III1e, according to the Goldmann-classification, were presented with semi-automated kinetic perimetry (Octopus 900 perimeter, Haag-Streit, Köniz/CH). They moved along the horizontal meridian, with an angular velocity of 3°/s towards the visual field center, starting from either the temporal or nasal periphery. If necessary, a 20° nasal fixation point offset was chosen to capture the temporal periphery of the visual field. For each condition the red/white dissociation ratio (RWR); Pat Appl. DPMA DRN 43200082D) between the extent of the isopter for red (RG610, Schott, Mainz/ FRG) and white stimuli along the horizontal meridian was determined.

Results

All data are listed as median/interquartile range: Five males with protanopia (age 22.1/4.5 years) and six males with normal trichromacy (control group, age 30.5/15.2 years) were enrolled. The RWR is listed for the right eye, as no clinically relevant difference between right and left eye occurred. Protanopes’ RWR for mark III4e (in brackets: control group) was 0.941/0.013 (0.977/0.019) and for mark III1e 0.496/0.062 (0.805/0.051), respectively.

Conclusions

In this exploratory “proof-of-concept study” red/white dissociation ratio perimetry is introduced as a novel technique aiming at assessing and quantifying the severity of protanopia. Further effort is needed to understand the magnitude of the observed red-/white dissociation and to extend this methodology to a wider age range of the sample and to anomalous trichromacies (protanomalia) with varying magnitude.
Key components of post-diagnostic support for people with dementia and their carers: A qualitative study
Authors: Bamford Claire , Wheatley Alison , Brunskill Greta , Booi Laura , Allan Louise , Banerjee Sube , Harrison Dening Karen , Manthorpe Jill , Robinson Louise ,   on behalf of the PriDem study team
Published: December 2021

Background

There has been a shift in focus of international dementia policies from improving diagnostic rates to enhancing the post-diagnostic support provided to people with dementia and their carers. There is, however, little agreement over what constitutes good post-diagnostic support. This study aimed to identify the components of post-diagnostic dementia support.

Methods

We adopted a qualitative design using interviews, focus groups and observation to explore the perspectives of key stakeholders on the content of post-diagnostic dementia support. Purposive sampling was used to identify sites in England and Wales recognised as delivering good practice. Participants included 17 people with dementia, 31 carers, 68 service managers or funders, and 78 frontline staff. Interviews and focus groups were audio recorded and transcribed for analysis. Forty-eight sessions of observation were completed and recorded in fieldnotes. Components were identified through an inductive, thematic approach and cross-checked against national guidelines and existing frameworks; they were subsequently critically reviewed by a range of experts and our mixed stakeholder panel.

Results

Twenty distinct components of post-diagnostic support were identified, related to five themes: timely identification and management of needs; understanding and managing dementia; emotional and psychological wellbeing; practical support; and integrating support. The first and last of these were cross-cutting themes facilitating the delivery of a unique constellation of components of post-diagnostic support to each individual living with dementia or dyad at a particular time.

Conclusions

Our work offers an empirically based framework to inform the development and delivery of holistic, integrated and continuous dementia care from diagnosis to end of life. It highlights the relevance of many components to both people living with dementia and their carers. Since the framework was developed in England and Wales, further research is needed to explore the relevance of our components to other sectors, countries and care systems.
Clinical and economic impact of an alert system in primary care for the detection of patients with chronic hepatitis C
Authors: García-Herola Antonio , Domínguez-Hernández Raquel , Casado Miguel Ángel
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Prevalence of chronic hepatitis C (CHC) is higher in patients born between 1955–1975. The aim was to perform an economic evaluation of an age-based electronic health record (EHR) alert in primary care to detect patients with undiagnosed CHC and its treatment in comparison with non-use of the alert system, in Valencian Community, Spain.

Materials and methods

Decision trees and Markov model were used to evaluate the diagnosis and progression of the disease, respectively. CHC was diagnosed by serology and viral load in seropositive subjects. Epidemiological data and diagnostic costs were extracted from public sources of the Valencian Community. Probabilities, utilities and costs of model states were obtained from the literature. The impact on mortality and hepatic complications avoided by the implementation of the alert were estimated, and efficiency was measured as an incremental cost-utility ratio (ICUR) based on quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) and the costs of both alternatives.

Results

The EHR alert detected 269,548 patients, of whom 1,331 had CHC (vs. 23 patients with non-alert). Over the patients’ lifetime, the alert would prevent 93% of decompensated cirrhosis cases, 87% of hepatocellular carcinomas, 90% of liver transplants, and 89% of liver related deaths compared to non-use of the alert system. In addition, it would obtain an additional 3.3 QALY per patient, with an incremental cost of €10,880 and an ICUR of €3,321.

Conclusions

The implementation of an age-based EHR alert in primary care to detect patients with CHC reduces hepatic complications and mortality and is an efficient strategy.
Suicide preceded by health services contact – A whole-of-population study in New Zealand 2013-2015
Authors: Chiang Annie , Paynter Janine , Edlin Richard , Exeter Daniel J.
Published: December 2021

New Zealand’s rate of suicide persistently exceeds the global average. The burden of suicide in New Zealand is disproportionately borne by youth, males and Māori (NZ indigenous people). While the demographic characteristics of suicide decedents are established, there is a need to identify potential points of contact with health services where preventative action could take place. This paper aims to determine if suicide deaths in New Zealand were likely to be preceded by contact with health services, and the type and time frame in which these contacts took place. This study utilised a whole-of-population-cohort of all individuals age 15 years and over, who were alive on March 5th 2013, followed up to December 2015. Associations between the odds of suicide, demographic factors, area-based deprivation, and the timing of last contact with primary, secondary, and tertiary services were analysed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression. Contact with a health service in the 6 Months prior to death was associated with the highest odds of suicide. Over half of the suicide decedent population (59.4%) had contacted primary health services during this period. Large proportions of the suicide decedent population contacted secondary and tertiary services in the 6 Months prior to death, 46.5% and 30.4% respectively. Contact with primary, secondary and tertiary services in the prior 6 Months, were associated with an increased odds of suicide of 2.51 times [95% CI 2.19–2.88], 4.45 times [95% CI 3.69–4.66] and 6.57 times [95% CI 5.84–7.38], respectively, compared to those who had no health services contact.
Intrinsic and extrinsic motivations governing prey choice by hunters in a post-war African forest-savannah macromosaic
Authors: Braga-Pereira Franciany , Peres Carlos A. , da Nóbrega Alves Rômulo Romeu , Van-Dúnem Santos Carmén
Published: December 2021

Overhunting typically increases during and after armed conflicts, and may lead to regional-scale defaunation. The mitigation of hunting impacts is complex because, among other reasons, several intrinsic and extrinsic motivations underpin the elevated deployment of hunting practices. Here we present the first study focusing on these motivations in a post-war zone. Following persistently heavy hunting pressure during the 27-year Angolan civil war, the offtake of small to medium-bodied species has increased recently as a result of large mammal depletion. However, prey choice associated with different motivations varied in terms of species trophic level and body size. While most residents hunted large-bodied species to maximize revenues from wildlife trade, many low-trophic level smaller species were harvested to meet local subsistence demands because they were more palatable and could be captured using artisanal traps near hunters’ households. Mainly low-trophic level species were killed in retaliation for crop-raiding or livestock depredation. Considering all game species sampled in this study, 96% were captured to attend two or more motivations. In addition, hunting associated with different motivations was partitioned in terms of age and gender, with prey acquisition for the wildlife trade primarily carried out by adult men, while hunting to meet local subsistence needs and inhibit human-wildlife conflicts were carried out by adult men and women, children and even the elderly. In natural savannah areas lacking fish as a source of protein, a higher number of species was selected to supply both the meat trade and subsistence, while more species in forest areas were targeted for trade in animal body parts and conflict retaliation. Finally, local commerce in bushmeat and other body parts accrued higher domestic revenues compared to any alternative sources of direct and indirect income. However, these financial benefits were at best modest, largely unsustainable in terms of prey population collapses, and generated high long-term costs for the local to regional scale economy and native biodiversity.
Cerebral and extracerebral distribution of radioactivity associated with oxytocin in rabbits after intranasal administration: Comparison of TTA-121, a newly developed oxytocin formulation, with Syntocinon
Authors: Ishii Daisuke , Kageyama Michiharu , Umeda Shin
Published: December 2021

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder associated with deficits in social interactions/communication. Despite the large number of ASD patients, there is no drug approved to treat its core symptoms. Recently, Syntocinon (oxytocin nasal spray) has been reported to have a therapeutic effect on ASD. However, the disadvantage of Syntocinon for ASD treatment is that 6 puffs/administration are required to achieve the effective pharmacological dose. Furthermore, there are no published reports evaluating the cerebral distribution profile of oxytocin after intranasal administration. TTA-121 is a newly developed intranasal oxytocin formulation with high bioavailability produced by optimizing the physicochemical properties. In this study, we prepared the same formula as Syntocinon as the control formulation (CF), and the cerebral and extracerebral distribution of oxytocin in rabbits after single intranasal administration of 3H-labeled oxytocin formulations—[3H]TTA-121 and [3H]CF were examined and compared. The area under the concentration-time curve to the time of the last quantifiable concentration (AUCt) in the whole brain was 3.6-fold higher in the [3H]TTA-121 group than in the [3H]CF group, indicating increased delivery of radioactivity to the brain by TTA-121 than by CF. Since the distribution profiles showed no notable differences in radioactivity between the olfactory bulb and trigeminal nerve, intranasally-administered oxytocin was probably transferred to the brain via both pathways. The results also showed an increase in radioactivity in the prefrontal area and the precuneus, which are probable sites of pharmacological action as shown in clinical studies using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), confirming that intranasally-administered oxytocin could reach these tissues.
Rural-urban disparities in the nutritional status of younger adolescents in Tanzania
Authors: Cordeiro Lorraine S. , Otis Nicholas P. , Sibeko Lindiwe , Nelson-Peterman Jerusha
Published: December 2021

Research on geographic differences in health focuses largely on children less than five years; little is known about adolescents—and even less regarding younger adolescents—a vulnerable group at a critical stage of the life course. Africa’s rapid population growth and urbanization rates, coupled with stagnant rates of undernutrition, further indicate the need for country-specific data on rural-urban health disparities to inform development policies. This study examined rural-urban disparities in body mass index-for-age-and-sex (BAZ) and height-for-age-and-sex z-scores (HAZ) among younger adolescents in Tanzania. Participants were randomly selected adolescents aged 10–14 years (N = 1,125) residing in Kilosa (rural) and Moshi (urban) districts of Tanzania. Individual and household-level data were collected using surveys and anthropometric data was collected on all adolescents. Age, sex, household living conditions, and assets were self-reported. BAZ and HAZ were calculated using the WHO reference guide. The prevalence of undernutrition was 10.9% among rural and 5.1% among urban adolescents (p<0.001). Similarly, stunting prevalence was greater in rural (64.5%) than urban (3.1%) adolescents (p<0.001). After adjusting for covariates, rural residence was significantly and inversely associated with BAZ (B = -0.29, 95% CI: -0.52, -0.70, p = 0.01), as well as with HAZ (B = -1.79, 95% CI: -2.03, -1.54, p<0.001). Self-identified males had lower BAZ (B = -0.23, 95% CI: -0.34, -0.11, p<0.001) and HAZ (B = -0.22, 95% CI: -0.35, -0.09, p = 0.001) than self-identified female adolescents. Rural-urban disparities in nutritional status were significant and gendered. Findings confirm place of residence as a key determinant of BAZ and HAZ among younger adolescents in Tanzania. Targeted gender-sensitive interventions are needed to limit growth faltering and improve health outcomes in rural settings.
Sufficiency of the BOT-2 short form to screen motor competency in preschool children with strabismus
Authors: Yeh Kuo-Kuang , Liu Wen-Yu , Yang Meng-Ling , Liu Chun-Hsiu , Lien Hen-Yu , Chung Chia-Ying
Published: December 2021

Background

Strabismus is one of the most common visual disorders in children, with a reported prevalence of 2.48% in preschoolers. Additionally, up to 89.9% of preschool children with strabismus do not have normal stereopsis. Whether this lack of normal stereopsis affects the motor competency of preschool children with strabismus is unknown. The Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency Second Edition short form (BOT-2 SF) can be a useful tool for screening; however, its sufficiency as a diagnostic tool for children with various disorders is controversial.

Objective

The aims of this study were thus to examine motor competency in preschool children with strabismus by using the BOT-2 and to evaluate the usefulness of the BOT-2 SF to identify those at risk for motor competency issues.

Methods

Forty preschool children (aged 5–7 years) with strabismus were recruited, all of whom had abnormal stereopsis. The BOT-2 complete form (CF) was administered to all children. The BOT-2 CF was administered to all children. The scores of the BOT-2 SF were extracted from the relevant items of the BOT-2 CF for further analysis.

Results

The prevalence of children with strabismus who had below average performance in the composites of “Fine Manual Control”, “Manual Coordination”,”Body Coordination”, and “Strength and Agility” were 15%, 70%, 32.5%, and 5%, respectively, on the BOT-2 CF. Compared with these results, the sensitivity of the BOT-2 SF was 33.33% (95% CI = 7.49%–70.07%) and the specificity was 100% (95% CI = 88.78%–100%).

Conclusion

Preschool children with strabismus had a high prevalence of impaired motor competency, especially in fine motor competency. The BOT-2 SF was not as sensitive in identifying motor difficulties in preschool children with strabismus. Therefore, the BOT-2 CF is recommended for evaluating motor proficiency in preschool children with strabismus.
Course of lactate, pH and base excess for prediction of mortality in medical intensive care patients
Authors: Schork Anja , Moll Kathrin , Haap Michael , Riessen Reimer , Wagner Robert
Published: December 2021

Introduction

As base excess had shown superiority over lactate as a prognostic parameter in intensive care unit (ICU) surgical patients we aimed to evaluate course of lactate, base excess and pH for prediction of mortality of medical ICU patients.

Materials and methods

For lactate, pH and base excess, values at the admission to ICU, at 24 ± 4 hours, maximum or minimum in the first 24 hours and in 24–48 hours after admission were collected from all patients admitted to the Medical ICU of the University Hospital Tübingen between January 2016 until December 2018 (N = 4067 at admission, N = 1715 with ICU treatment > 48 h) and investigated for prediction of in-hospital-mortality.

Results

Mortality was 22% and significantly correlated with all evaluated parameters. Strongest predictors of mortality determined by ROC were maximum lactate in 24 h (AUROC 0.74, cut off 2.7 mmol/L, hazard ratio of risk group with value > cut off 3.20) and minimum pH in 24 h (AUROC 0.71, cut off 7.31, hazard ratio for risk group 2.94). Kaplan Meier Curves stratified across these cut offs showed early and clear separation. Hazard ratios per standard deviation increase were highest for maximum lactate in 24 h (HR 1.65), minimum base excess in 24 h (HR 1.56) and minimum pH in 24 h (HR 0.75).

Conclusion

Lactate, pH and base excess were all suitable predictors of mortality in internal ICU patients, with maximum / minimum values in 24 and 24–48 h after admission altogether stronger predictors than values at admission. Base excess and pH were not superior to lactate for prediction of mortality.
HIV testing and ART initiation among partners, family members, and high-risk associates of index clients participating in the CommLink linkage case management program, Eswatini, 2016–2018
Authors: Williams Daniel , MacKellar Duncan , Dlamini Makhosazana , Byrd Johnita , Dube Lenhle , Mndzebele Phumzile , Mazibuko Sikhathele , Ao Trong , Pathmanathan Ishani , Beyer Alysha , Ryan Caroline
Published: December 2021

To help diagnose and initiate antiretroviral therapy (ART) for ≥95% of all persons living with HIV (PLHIV), the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends offering HIV testing to biological children, and sexual and needle-sharing partners of all PLHIV (index-client testing, ICT). Many index clients, however, do not identify or have contactable partners, and often substantially fewer than 95% of HIV-positive partners initiate ART soon after index testing. To help improve early HIV diagnosis and ART initiation in Eswatini (formerly Swaziland), we implemented a community-based HIV testing and peer-delivered, linkage case management program (CommLink) that provided ICT as part of a comprehensive package of WHO recommended linkage services. CommLink was implemented June 2015 –March 2017 (Phase I), and April 2017 –September 2018 (Phase II). In addition to biological children and partners, HIV testing was offered to adult family members (Phases I and II) and high-risk associates including friends and acquaintances (Phase II) of CommLink index clients. Compared with Phase I, in Phase II proportionally more CommLink clients disclosed their HIV-infection status to a partner or family member [94% (562/598) vs. 75% (486/652)], and had ≥1 partners, family members, or high-risk associates (contacts) tested through CommLink [41% (245/598) vs. 18% (117/652)]. Of 537 contacts tested, 253 (47%) were HIV-positive and not currently in HIV care, including 17% (17/100) of family members aged <15 years, 42% (78/187) of non-partner family members aged ≥15 years, 60% (73/121) of sexual partners, and 66% (85/129) of high-risk associates. Among 210 HIV-positive contacts aged ≥15 years who participated in CommLink, nearly all received recommended linkage services including treatment navigation (95%), weekly telephone follow-up (93%), and ≥3 counseling sessions (94%); peer counselors resolved 76% (306/404) of identified barriers to care (e.g., perceived wellness); and 200 (95%) initiated ART at a healthcare facility, of whom 196 (98%) received at least one antiretroviral refill before case-management services ended. To help countries achieve ≥90% ART coverage among all PLHIV, expanding ICT for adult family members and high-risk associates of index clients, and providing peer-delivered linkage case management for all identified PLHIV, should be considered.
Normal manual straight ahead pointing in Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
Authors: Vittersø Axel D. , Buckingham Gavin , Ten Brink Antonia F. , Halicka Monika , Proulx Michael J. , Bultitude Janet H.
Published: December 2021

There is evidence to suggest that people with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) can have altered body representations and spatial cognition. One way of studying these cognitive functions is through manual straight ahead (MSA) pointing, in which participants are required to point straight ahead of their perceived body midline without visual feedback of the hand. We therefore compared endpoint errors from MSA pointing between people with CRPS (n = 17) and matched controls (n = 18), and examined the effect of the arm used (Side of Body; affected/non-dominant, non-affected/dominant). For all participants, pointing errors were biased towards the hand being used. We found moderate evidence of no difference between Groups on endpoint errors, and moderate evidence of no interaction with Side of Body. The differences in variability between Groups were non-significant/inconclusive. Correlational analyses showed no evidence of a relationship between MSA endpoint errors and clinical parameters (e.g. CRPS severity, duration, pain) or questionnaire measures (e.g. body representation, “neglect-like symptoms”, upper limb disability). This study is consistent with earlier findings of no difference between people with CRPS and controls on MSA endpoint errors, and is the first to provide statistical evidence of similar performance of these two groups. Our results do not support a relationship between clinical or self-reported measures (e.g. “neglect-like symptoms”) and any directional biases in MSA. Our findings may have implications for understanding neurocognitive changes in CRPS.
SARS-CoV-2 receptor binding domain fusion protein efficiently neutralizes virus infection
Authors: Chaouat Abigael Eva , Achdout Hagit , Kol Inbal , Berhani Orit , Roi Gil , Vitner Einat B. , Melamed Sharon , Politi Boaz , Zahavy Eran , Brizic Ilija , Lenac Rovis Tihana , Alfi Or , Wolf Dana , Jonjic Stipan , Israely Tomer , Mandelboim Ofer
Published: December 2021

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic. Currently, as dangerous mutations emerge, there is an increased demand for specific treatments for SARS-CoV-2 infected patients. The spike glycoprotein on the virus envelope binds to the angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) on host cells through its receptor binding domain (RBD) to mediate virus entry. Thus, blocking this interaction may inhibit viral entry and consequently stop infection. Here, we generated fusion proteins composed of the extracellular portions of ACE2 and RBD fused to the Fc portion of human IgG1 (ACE2-Ig and RBD-Ig, respectively). We demonstrate that ACE2-Ig is enzymatically active and that it can be recognized by the SARS-CoV-2 RBD, independently of its enzymatic activity. We further show that RBD-Ig efficiently inhibits in-vivo SARS-CoV-2 infection better than ACE2-Ig. Mechanistically, we show that anti-spike antibody generation, ACE2 enzymatic activity, and ACE2 surface expression were not affected by RBD-Ig. Finally, we show that RBD-Ig is more efficient than ACE2-Ig at neutralizing high virus titers. We thus propose that RBD-Ig physically blocks virus infection by binding to ACE2 and that RBD-Ig should be used for the treatment of SARS-CoV-2-infected patients.
Cibersegurança na aviação civil brasileira (2016 – 2019)
Authors: Emanuelli Gisela Biacchi
Published: December 2021

Este texto tem o objetivo de constatar ações de segurança cibernética na proteção da aviação civil brasileira desde o encaminhamento da Resolução A39-19 da Organização da Aviação Civil Internacional (OACI) em 30 de maio de 2016 até 2019. Vale-se de estudo de caso e análise bibliográfica, documental e legislativa. Como resultado da pesquisa, constata-se o equilíbrio entre as políticas recomendadas pela OACI e as medidas conduzidas pelo Brasil por meio do Gabinete de Segurança Institucional (GSI) e da Agência Nacional de Aviação Civil (ANAC). Além disso, observa-se que o Brasil se antecipou às recomendações internacionais ao elaborar o Planejamento Estratégico 2015-2019 da ANAC. Por fim, conclui-se que a segurança cibernética será uma realidade em permanente evolução, dependente de ações concertadas de todos os atores do ecossistema da aviação civil e do poder público em direção ao cumprimento das orientações da Política e da Estratégia Nacional de Defesa e da segurança do Estado brasileiro.
Desenvolvimento de competências para o risco através de questões problema. Um estudo de caso na educação escolar
Authors: Talaia Mário
Published: December 2021

Na problemática atual de alterações climáticas, em que o aquecimento global é aceite, o paradigma da sobrevivência do ser humano face a alteração do ambiente térmico de um ecossistema deve ser valorizado e cabe à escola formar cidadãos para a nova realidade que se avizinha. A escola através de um ensino eficaz, deverá preparar profissionais com atributos fundamentais: coragem, inovação e comunicação. Neste artigo relata-se um estudo de caso, na área da Física Aplicada em termos de risco, realizado numa Escola Superior de Ensino para alunos com uma formação profissional de base. A metodologia aplicada foi alicerçada na Aprendizagem Baseada na Resolução de Problemas num contexto Ciência, Tecnologia, Sociedade e Ambiente em que cada questão problema era vivenciada pelos alunos. Esta estratégia de ensino foi avaliada através da aplicação de um questionário. Os resultados obtidos mostraram inequivocamente que a estratégia usada foi eficaz na formação dos alunos.
New records of vascular plants in the West Altai
Authors: Smirnov Sergey V. , Kechaykin Aleksey A. , Tenigin Vladislav S. , Shestakov Ilja A. , Shmakov Alexander I.
Published: December 2021

The article presents new data on the distribution in the territory of Western Altai of 20 species of vascular plants from the families Asteraceae, Betulaceae, Boraginaceae, Crassulaceae, Huperziaceae, Grossulariaceae, Lamiaceae, Onagraceae, Orchidaceae, Papaveraceae, Polygonaceae, Ranunculaceae, Rosaceae, Saxifragaceae и Violaceae. All of them were collected in the highlands of the Korgon Range within the Altai Territory. Of these, Potentilla crebridens is reported for the first time for the Altai Territory and Western Altai; for other species, new localities are indicated. For the first time for the Korgon Range within the Altai Territory, Saxifraga terektensis, Viola tigirekica are presented, and the exact location of Potentilla nivea is noted. New localities of rare and protected species were discovered: Callianthemum sajanense, Huperzia appressa, Pyrethrum alatavicum, Saussurea baicalensis, Scutellaria altaica. For each species, the general distribution, ecology data are given, for some species, notes on the difference and differentiation of them from the closest taxa are indicated. If necessary, the locations of the species previously registered in the Western Altai are indicated. For the species included in the “Red Data Book of the Altai Territory”, we provide an information on the approximate number of individuals in the found populations. Based on the analysis of herbarium material, we exclude Potentilla nervosa from the list of flora of the Altai Territory.
Is Lotus zhegulensis Klok. (Fabaceae) a separate species endemic of the Middle Volga Region or just a variety of a widespread L. corniculatus L.?
Authors: Kramina Tatyana E. , Meschersky Ilja G. , Fedorova Alina V. , Vasilieva Natalia V. , Stepanova Nina Yu. , Schanzer Ivan A.
Published: December 2021

We have studied several samples from Lotus corniculatus s. l. and L. zhegulensis populations with the use of SSR and sequenced nuclear (ITS) and plastid (atpB-rbcL, ndhC-trnV, rpl32-trnL(UAG), trnH-psbA, trnL-trnF) markers. We analysed 9 local populations from the Volga River valley ranging from Ulyanovsk in the north to Volgograd in the south, as well as two local populations from Moscow and Lipetsk Provinces. Analyses of SSR markers using the STRUCRURE program divided the sample into three genetic clusters. Populations from Moscow and Lipetsk Provinces, and three local populations from the ‘locus classicus’ location of L. zhegulensis in Samara Province appeared to be the most genetically differentiated while all the other populations were variously genetically admixed. Low pairwise Fst values indicate low genetic differentiation of Lotus populations and the intraspecific nature of the revealed diversity. The nuclear and plastid DNA sequences analyzed yielded little information. Substitutions and indels revealed were mostly autapomorphies characteristic of separate specimens or small groups of specimens but not of populations. Our study enables to firmly conclude that Lotus populations from the right bank of the Volga River in vicinity of Zhiguli upland described as L. zhegulensis are weakly genetically differentiated from other populations of Lotus corniculatus s. l. and, hence, cannot be regarded as a separate species.
24 sectors DTC control with fuzzy hysteresis comparators for DFIM fed by 3 level inverter
Authors: Jibril Mustefa
Published: December 2021

This article presents 24 sectors direct torque control (DTC) with fuzzy hysteresis comparators for the doubly-fed induction motor (DFIM) using a three-level neutral point clamped (NPC) inverter. The designed DTC technique of the DFIM combines the advantages of the DTC strategy and fuzzy logic controller. The reaching conditions, stability, and robustness of the DFIM with the designed DTC technique are guaranteed. The designed DTC technique is insensitive to uncertainties, including parameter variations and external disturbances in the whole control process. Finally, the designed DTC technique with fuzzy hysteresis comparators is used to regulate the electromagnetic torque and the flux of the DFIM fed by the three-level NPC inverter and confirms the validity of the designed DTC technique. Results of simulations containing tests of robustness and tracking tests are presented.
Risco de demanda e abandono contratual: uma análise por opções reais da concessão da rodovia BR-381/262/MG/ES
Authors: Costa Felipe do Amaral , Rocha Carlos Henrique
Published: December 2021

Este artigo avalia a relação entre risco de demanda e abandono contratual de concessões rodoviárias à luz de recentes alterações na regulamentação brasileira. O abandono contratual é uma flexibilidade gerencial existente em contratos desse tipo e pode agregar valor ao projeto, uma vez que o concessionário deve ser indenizado pelos investimentos realizados, independente da origem da rescisão. A teoria das opções reais foi utilizada para modelagem da opção de abandono da concessão da BR-381-262/MG/ES. A partir do fluxo de caixa esperado para o projeto, ainda em fase de licitação, e dados históricos de outras concessões sobre o risco de demanda, o modelo binomial foi aplicado para precificação da opção. Nessas condições, verificou-se que a opção agrega valor substancial ao projeto, em torno de R$ 2,6 bilhões. Este trabalho contribui para um melhor entendimento sobre a relação entre as incertezas envolvidas, o abandono do projeto e o valor agregado criado. É importante ter conhecimento prévio sobre a questão do abandono contratual para definições de valores de indenizações para estruturação de provisões.
El impacto de los barrios “300 viviendas” y “Plan VEA” como constructores de ciudad en la expansión urbana a principios de la década del setenta en la ciudad de Corrientes
Authors: Riera Miguel Angel
Published: December 2021

La vivienda de interés social asume un papel significativo en la conformación de la trama urbana de la ciudad, manifestado por la materialización de conjuntos barriales llevado adelante a través de las operatorias implementadas por entidades crediticias. El gobierno peronista entre 1946 y 1955, dentro de un importante plan de obras públicas posicionó a la construcción de vivienda de interés social en un lugar relevante. Su caída en 1955 generó un cambio en la orientación de las políticas de vivienda social en el espacio nacional. El apoyo a los sistemas de ahorro interno y de la Alianza para el Progreso caracterizaron los lineamientos llevados adelante. Materializados a principios de la década del 70, los barrios “Plan VEA” y “300 viviendas” se localizan al sur del área central de la ciudad de Corrientes, con un entorno urbano que en los últimos años experimentó cambios por la ocupación de espacios inicialmente libres de edificación. Actualmente, ambos barrios se encuentran plenamente integrados a la trama urbana en un sector que en los últimos años evidenció un importante desarrollo inmobiliario, acompañado con la extensión de infraestructura urbana, de acuerdo al análisis de la categoría de evolución demográfica y documentación gráfica de las fuentes analizadas.
Mensaje
Authors: Cosentino Sergio
Published: December 2021

Mensaje
Mensaje
Authors: Barreto Miguel Ángel
Published: December 2021

Mensaje
Duas décadas de ensino religioso confessional no estado do Rio de Janeiro: Qual a “crença” em disputa na política para a rede pública estadual?
Authors: Souza Evelin Christine Fonseca de , Castro Marcela Moraes de
Published: December 2021

Neste artigo analisamos a relação do antagonismo político marcado pela oferta do ensino religioso nas escolas públicas da rede estadual do Rio de Janeiro, na articulação entre os textos da política que instituem o caráter confessional da disciplina e sua tradução na escola como contexto da prática da ação da política democrática. O estudo, de caráter documental, ampara-se na perspectiva pós-estruturalista como proposta por Chantal Mouffe e investiga as ações dos sujeitos no campo legislativo, nas disputas pelas proposições favoráveis e contrárias à confessionalidade da disciplina. Para o diálogo com a escola, analisamos a oferta do ensino religioso na rede estadual fluminense através das respostas específicas sobre o tema ao Questionário do Diretor aplicado nas avaliações do Sistema de Avaliação da Educação Básica, edições de 2013, 2015 e 2017. As respostas ao Questionário evidenciam que, na prática, a oferta do referido componente curricular não é de presença obrigatória para estudantes, não é confessional e não há oferta de atividades alternativas para quem opta por não se matricular. Constatamos que, embora a implementação do ensino religioso confessional na rede estadual pareça fracamente efetivada, há outros movimentos de socialização política em curso, os quais, em âmbito do Estado, articulam valores morais inscritos em sua pauta de disciplinarização.
Forschung für die Mobilitätswende: COVID-19-Pandemie als Treiber?
Authors: Rasche Barbara , Dreber Niels , Zehl Franziska , Knie Andreas
Published: December 2021

Die COVID-19-Pandemie hat das Arbeits- und Mobilitätsverhalten vieler Menschen stark verändert ‐ daraus lassen sich wichtige transformative Impulse und Chancen ableiten, Mobilität langfristig nachhaltiger zu gestalten. Die Sozial-ökologische Forschung
im Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung leistet hierzu unter anderem mit dem Projekt MOBICOR einen Beitrag.
Vertrauenswürdige künstliche Intelligenz
Authors: Beckert Bernd
Published: December 2021

Während es inzwischen eine ganze Reihe praktischer Leitfäden für die Implementierung des Konzepts der vertrauenswürdigen künstlichen Intelligenz (KI) gibt, fehlt es an konkreten Beispielen und Projekten für Umsetzungen, anhand derer sich Probleme und Erfolgsstrategien der Akteur*innen vor Ort aufzeigen ließen. Dieser Beitrag stellt ausgewählte Umsetzungsprojekte vor. Durchweg zeigt sich dabei ein noch geringer Grad an Konkretisierung. Deshalb wird anschließend nach den Gründen für das Umsetzungsdefizit gefragt. Drei Erklärungen kommen infrage: Time-to-Market-Überlegungen aufseiten der Unternehmen, Unklarheit darüber, welche Aspekte des Konzepts der vertrauenswürdigen KI bei welchen Anwendungen überhaupt relevant sind sowie die Tatsache, dass die Umsetzung von KI‑Projekten komplexer ist als die Umsetzung ‚normaler‘ Software-Projekte und deshalb spezifische Vorkehrungen notwendig sind.
Artificial intelligence in human genomics and biomedicine
Authors: Heil Reinhard , Heyen Nils B. , Baumann Martina , Hüsing Bärbel , Bachlechner Daniel , Schmoch Ulrich , König Harald
Published: December 2021

The increasing availability of extensive and complex data has made human genomics and its applications in (bio)medicine an at­ tractive domain for artificial intelligence (AI) in the form of advanced machine learning (ML) methods. These methods are linked not only to the hope of improving diagnosis and drug development. Rather, they may also advance key issues in biomedicine, e. g. understanding how individual differences in the human genome may cause specific traits or diseases. We analyze the increasing convergence of AI and genom­ics, the emergence of a corresponding innovation system, and how these associative AI methods relate to the need for causal knowledge in biomedical research and development (R&D) and in medical prac­tice. Finally, we look at the opportunities and challenges for clinical practice and the implications for governance issues arising from this convergence.
Mitarbeiterfreundliche Implementierung von KI ‑Systemen im Hinblick auf Akzeptanz und Vertrauen
Authors: Jung Maria , Von Garrel Jörg
Published: December 2021

Der Einsatz künstlicher Intelligenz (KI) in produzierenden Unternehmen bietet Chancen und Potenziale. KI kann neben der Wettbewerbsfähigkeit von Betrieben auch die arbeitnehmerische Selbstbestimmtheit fördern. Derzeit wird die Bedeutung der Mitarbeiter für einen effektiven und effizienten Einsatz von KI ‑Systemen oftmals zu wenig berücksichtigt, da der Fokus überwiegend auf der Technologie liegt. Aus diesem Grund wurde eine qualitative Studie durchgeführt, die die beiden Faktoren „mitarbeiterfreundliche Implementierung“ und „mitarbeiterfreundlicher Betrieb“ in Bezug auf Akzeptanz und Vertrauen von KI‑Systemen analysiert. Aus den Erkenntnissen wurde ein prozessorientiertes Forschungsmodell konzipiert, das auf der Adoptionstheorie von Rogers basiert und Einflüsse verschiedener Technologieakzeptanzmodelle sowie akzeptanz- und vertrauensfördernde Faktoren umfasst. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass eine wahrgenommene Arbeitserleichterung und sichtbare Erfolgserlebnisse zu einer erhöhten Handlungsakzeptanz beitragen können.
Fabrication of flexible conductive silk fibroin/polythiophene membrane and its properties
Authors: Ai Xin , Lu Shuqing , Xie Ailing , Zhang Haoran , Zhao Juntao , Wang Tianjiao , Chen Guoqiang , Lu Shenzhou , Xing Tieling
Published: December 2021

Silk fibroin (SF) film is an insulating material, which can be combined with polythiophene derivatives with electrical conductivity to obtain a flexible conductive material. In this work, poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) was used to graft a silk protein film. The hydroxyl radical is formed by activation and oxidation of the silk protein film polymerized with the PEDOT radical formed by oxidation of 3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene to obtain a conductive silk film. The SF/PEDOT film, when tested, showed excellent electrical conductivity with resistance up to 63 Ω·cm−2, good flexibility, mechanical properties, fastness, and biocompatibility.