bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantifying the effect of subcritical water repellency on sorptivity : a physically based model
Authors: Shillito Rose , Berli Markus , Ghezzehei Teamrat
Published: July 2021

Soil water wettability or water repellency is a phenomenon that can affect infiltration and, ultimately, runoff. Thus, there is a need to develop a model that can quantitatively capture the influence of water repellency on infiltration in a physically meaningful way and within the framework of existing infiltration theory. The analytical model developed in this study relates soil sorptivity (an infiltration parameter) with contact angle (a direct measure of water repellency) for variably saturated media. The model was validated with laboratory experiments using a silica sand of known properties treated to produce controlled degrees of water repellency. The measured contact angle and sorptivity values closely matched the model‐predicted values. Further, the relationship between the frequently used water drop penetration time test (used to assess water repellency) and sorptivity was illustrated. Finally, the direct impact of water repellency on saturated hydraulic conductivity was investigated due to its role in infiltration equations and to shed light on inconsistent field observations. It was found that water repellency had minimal effect on the saturated hydraulic conductivity of structureless sand. A quantitative model for infiltration incorporating the effect of water repellency is particularly important for post‐fire hydrologic modeling of burned areas exhibiting water repellent soils.
La Perspectiva de la matriz sociopolítica y sus transformaciones previas al estallido social: una proximidad al norte chileno (2016-2018)
Authors: Jiménez Palacios Ricardo
Published: July 2021

El presente material evidencia las características polí- ticas de la sociedad chilena durante los tres años previos al estallido de octubre de 2019. Para dar cuenta de esta situación hemos considerado un aporte teórico y metodo- lógico. En el aspecto teórico, hemos considerado el con- cepto de matriz sociopolítica (MSP) y su proceso de deses- tructuración desde las últimas décadas del siglo XX. Como elemento metodológico hemos considerado el «Estudio longitudinal social de Chile» (ELSOC) y las evidencias que nos permiten dar cuenta de la desestructuración de la MSP durante los años previos al estallido. Así, lejos de conside- rarlo una situación no previsible, el estallido fue resultado de los procesos de desregulación de la MSP y los procesos de subjetivación en el marco del neoliberalismo. Final- mente, con el presente material pretendemos dar cuenta que los procesos de desestructuración de la MSP, así como los de subjetivación neoliberal, deben ser sustancialmente situados en un marco territorial, por lo que exponemos las particularidades de este fenómeno en la región norte de Chile.
Segurança dos alimentos: merendeiras conhecendo a microbiologia para promoção do alimento seguro na escola
Authors: Gonçalves Bruna Carolina , Clébis Victor Hugo , Niguma Natália Harumi , Medeiros Leonardo Pinto , Dibo Miriam , Carreira Clísia Mara , Nakazato Gerson , Kobayashi Renata Katsuko Takayama
Published: July 2021

As doenças transmitidas por alimentos (DTAs) constituem uma das principais preocupações da saúde pública. Os manipuladores de alimentos precisam estar cada vez mais conscientes dos riscos que existem ao manusearem os alimentos de maneira inadequada. Muitas DTAs podem ser prevenidas se os manipuladores forem mais bem capacitados e conscientizados dos cuidados necessários para as boas práticas de higiene na manipulação de alimentos. Sendo assim, o objetivo deste projeto de extensão foi promover a segurança dos alimentos na escola ao proporcionar às merendeiras e aos auxiliares de cozinha, conhecimentos de microbiologia por meio de aulas teórico-práticas sobre microbiologia básica, coloração de Gram, microbiota, importância dos microrganismos para os alimentos, microrganismos patogênicos, desinfecção de alimentos e aspectos nutricionais. As aulas foram ministradas por discentes de programas de Pós-graduação da Universidade Estadual de Londrina. Atendemos 220 merendeiras de Londrina e região e, através de entrevistas, ouvimos seus relatos sobre as mudanças nas práticas realizadas na preparação de alimentos dentro das escolas e em suas casas; relataram também a importância do curso na aprendizagem sobre os cuidados e higienização dos alimentos. Como parte da avaliação do curso, algumas turmas responderam um questionário, antes e após o curso, sobre o conteúdo ministrado. Assim, foi constatado que o projeto promoveu uma maior conscientização dos cuidados com a manipulação de alimentos e quanto ao importante papel das merendeiras na promoção da saúde nas escolas.
Utilização de jogos como ferramentas pedagógicas em escolas públicas - relato de experiência do projeto Jogos Mentais
Authors: De Paula Everton , Da Silva Olavo , Ribeiro Alexia , Silva Felipe , Pacheco Joice , Paula Patrícia de
Published: July 2021

O presente artigo tem por objetivo apresentar um relato sobre as intervenções didático-pedagógicas realizadas por meio de jogos inteligentes com estudantes da Educação Básica de escolas públicas do município de Diamantina e região, em Minas Gerais, e discutir sobre a importância do lúdico na aprendizagem de ciências. As ações foram realizadas por um grupo de estudantes e professores da Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri (UFVJM) no projeto de extensão universitária “Jogos Mentais: aprendendo e desafiando a mente”. Inicialmente, foi feito um levantamento sobre a visão de diversos autores sobre a temática do lúdico na educação. Na sequência, foram escolhidos os seguintes jogos para serem executados durante as oficinas nas escolas: quebra-cabeça, xadrez, damas, cubo mágico e uso da realidade virtual. Os dados para o relato foram obtidos por descrições feitas pelos ministrantes das oficinas a partir das suas experiências. Os resultados do presente artigo mostram a importância dos jogos como ferramentas pedagógicas e sociais. Além disso, a realização das oficinas revela elementos que foram observados por outros autores, que são: o aumento da atenção e o interesse dos estudantes, a motivação durante a aprendizagem e o desenvolvimento de competências relacionadas às interações sociais e ao trabalho interdisciplinar.
Falando nisso, pessoal... Rodas de conversas virtuais em tempos de pandemia
Authors: Weber Karla , Zendron Fernanda , Bogo Damian Larsen , Andreatta Jomar Alberto , Bieger Aline , Salm Amanda , Schneider Lara , Vinicius Marcus
Published: July 2021

No primeiro semestre de 2020, no contexto mundial vivenciado pelo período de isolamento social e quarentena, ocasionado pela pandemia da COVID-19, tiveram início as atividades de ensino remotas e educação a distância. Para amenizar os impactos trazidos pelo distanciamento social, um grupo formado por docentes e discentes do Instituto Federal Catarinense – Campus Blumenau elaborou um projeto de extensão para interagir e manter a proximidade com a comunidade acadêmica, propondo rodas de conversa virtuais semanais. Este artigo tem como objetivo apresentar o relato sobre as alternativas educacionais propostas durante a pandemia. O projeto “Falando nisso, pessoal” ocorreu por meio da realização de eventos virtuais semanais, com o objetivo de aproximação e interação social com a comunidade durante este período de desafios diversos. Os eventos virtuais, realizados via plataforma do Google Meet, abordaram tópicos sobre ciência, educação, saúde, ambiente e tecnologia. Esses eventos proporcionaram à comunidade do IFC- Campus Blumenau, interação social, discussões, debates e descontração entre os participantes.
Projeto de Extensão Universitária Fisioterapia na Atenção Materno-Infantil: relato de experiência
Authors: Yamada Eloá Ferreira , Silva Érica Souza da , Scholten Denielle Machado , Chiquetti Eloá Maria dos Santos
Published: July 2021

Este artigo aborda um relato de experiência das ações desenvolvidas no projeto de extensão “Fisioterapia na Atenção Materno-Infantil”. Esse projeto teve por objetivo promover a melhoria da qualidade de atenção à saúde das gestantes. O projeto realizou palestras mensais sobre alterações que ocorrem no período gestacional e orientações sobre o desenvolvimento motor no primeiro ano de vida da criança. Docentes e discentes do projeto realizaram também avaliações fisioterapêuticas (individuais) e exercícios terapêuticos para aliviar os desconfortos relatados pelas gestantes. As alterações mais frequentes verificadas junto às gestantes foram: náuseas, vômitos, falta de ar, dor e/ou desconforto caracterizada como pontada nas regiões lombar e/ou abdominal. Dessa forma, através do acompanhamento das gestantes, foi possível atuar nas alterações decorrentes da gestação ao puerpério, além de oferecer orientações sobre como estimular os bebês no primeiro ano de vida. Ressalta-se assim, a importância da fisioterapia em gestantes, para minimizar os desconfortos e preparação para o parto, além do papel fundamental que o fisioterapeuta desempenha no acompanhamento do desenvolvimento motor infantil.
Aplicação de protótipo de microscópio de baixo custo como estratégia para o ensino de ciências e conscientização ambiental
Authors: Martins Isabela Maria , Sampaio Aline da Graça , Simões Gabriela dos Santos , Corrêa Júlia Gaspar Barbosa , Senkiio Caroline Souza , Fujii Laura Caldini , Vegian Mariana Raquel da Cruz , Oliveira e Campos Maria Alcionéia Carvalho de , Leite Lady Daiane Pereira , Paiva Clélia Aparecida de , Rodgher Suzelei , Koga-Ito Cristiane Yumi
Published: July 2021

Aulas práticas de ciências são importantes recursos metodológicos no processo ensino-aprendizagem dos alunos. No entanto, muitas escolas públicas brasileiras possuem escassa estrutura laboratorial, o que dificulta o desenvolvimento de atividades práticas. Este projeto de extensão teve como objetivo relatar o desenvolvimento de uma estratégia pedagógica interdisciplinar, abrangendo diversas áreas no ensino de Ciências, como conceitos de educação ambiental, citologia e óptica, por meio da construção e aplicação de um protótipo de microscópio, confeccionado com materiais eletroeletrônicos reutilizáveis, e outros de baixo custo. Participaram do projeto cento e vinte seis alunos, de escolas públicas do ensino fundamental. Foram ministradas oficinas compostas por: a) aula teórica e dinâmica abordando conceitos sobre a célula, física do microscópio e educação ambiental (resíduos sólidos e eletroeletrônicos, reciclagem e reutilização de resíduos, separação e responsabilização), b) aula prática com construção de protótipo de microscópio e c) questionário avaliativo. A atividade foi fundamentada nos Objetivos de Desenvolvimento Sustentável (ODS - ONU), visando à educação de qualidade e consumo e produção responsáveis, assim como na observação e experimentação como estratégia didática para a obtenção e assimilação de informações. Os resultados indicaram melhora na compreensão, por parte dos estudantes, de conceitos relacionados aos resíduos, células e funcionamento de um microscópio, confirmando a contribuição da atividade na melhoria do processo ensino–aprendizagem de ciências e conscientização ambiental. O protótipo, por ser de baixo custo e de fácil operação, pode aprimorar a infraestrutura de ensino das escolas, além de ser uma ferramenta interessante para auxiliar no ensino à distância.
UAV-Borne, LiDAR-Based Elevation Modelling: An Effective Tool for Improved Local Scale Urban Flood Risk Assessment
Authors: Trepekli Katerina , Balstrøm Thomas , Friborg Thomas , Fog Bjarne , Allotey Albert N. , Kofie Richard Y. , Møller-Jensen Lasse
Published: July 2021

In this study we present the first findings of the potential utility of miniaturized Light and Detection Ranging (LiDAR) scanners mounted on Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) for improving urban flood assessment at the local scale. This is done by generating high spatial resolution Digital Terrain Models (DTM) featuring buildings and urban microtopographic structures that can affect floodwater pathways (DTMbs). The accuracy and level of detail of the flooded areas simulated by a hydrologic screening model (Arc-Malstrøm), were vastly improved when DTMbs of 0.3 m resolution representing three urban sites surveyed by a UAV-LiDAR in Accra, Ghana, supplemented a commercially available 10 m resolution DTM covering the full catchment area of the region. The generation of DTMbs necessitated the effective classification of UAV-LiDAR point clouds using a morphological and a triangulated irregular network method for hilly and flat landscapes, respectively. The UAV-LiDAR enabled the identification of archways, boundary walls and bridges that were critical when predicting precise runoff courses that could not be projected using the DTM only. Variations in a stream’s geometry due to a one-year time gap between the satellite-based and UAV-LiDAR datasets were also observed. The application of the coarser DTM produced an overestimation of water flows equal to 15% for sloping terrain and up to 62.5% for flat areas when compared to the respective runoff simulated using the DTMbs. The application of UAV-LiDAR may enhance the effectiveness of urban planning by projecting precisely the location, extent and runoff of flooded areas in dynamic urban settings.
The Effectiveness of Community Neurorehabilitation for Persons with an Acquired Brain Injury: Protocol for a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Phillips Nicola , Ahern Elayne , Mockler David , McGettrick Grainne , Fitzpatrick Kyle , Trépel Dominic
Published: July 2021

Background Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) refers to any type of brain damage after birth. ABI from either traumatic or non-traumatic origin is a leading cause of death and long-term disability globally. The impact of an ABI can be cognitive and/ or physical greatly affecting their ability to function independently. With a lack of specialist inpatient rehabilitation facilities and services many of these survivors reside within the community either alone, with family or in residential facilities. Up-to-date evidence is required to indicate which forms of community rehabilitation are most effective in improving cognitive and physical outcomes for survivors. This systematic review aims to explore the clinical effectiveness of community neurorehabilitation services for persons living with an ABI. Methods A systematic review of relevant electronic databases will be undertaken to identify eligible published randomised controlled trials. The PRISMA statement will be used to guide the systematic review. From running the initial search, we aim to submit the paper for publishing within 6 months. This process will be completed using Covidence software. Two reviewers will independently screen the search results and select studies using pre-defined selection criteria, extract data from and assess risk of bias for selected studies. Discussion This systematic review will aim to explore the clinical effectiveness of community neuro-rehabilitation services for persons with an ABI. It plans to review and synthesize the current best available evidence base. A goal of this study is to positively inform ongoing service development within a quality framework. Systematic review registration CRD: CRD42020148604
Summertime precipitation in Hokkaido and Kyushu, Japan in response to global warming
Authors: Takabatake Daichi , Inatsu Masaru
Published: July 2021

We analyzed a large ensemble dataset called the database for Policy Decision Making for Future climate change (d4PDF), which contains 60-km resolution atmospheric general circulation model output and 20-km resolution dynamical downscaling for the Japanese domain. The increase in moisture and precipitation, and their global warming response in June–July–August were described focusing on the differences between Hokkaido and Kyushu. The results suggested that the specific humidity increased almost following the Clausius Clapeyron relation, but the change in stationary circulation suppressed the precipitation increase, except for in western Kyushu. The + 4 K climate in Hokkaido would be as hot and humid as the present climate in Kyushu. The circulation change related to the southward shift of the jet stream and an eastward shift of the Bonin high weakened the moisture flux convergence via a stationary field over central Japan including eastern Kyushu. The transient eddy activity counteracted the increase in humidity, so that the moisture flux convergence and precipitation did not change much over Hokkaido. Because the contribution of tropical cyclones to the total precipitation was at most 10%, the decrease in the number of tropical cyclones did not explain the predicted change in precipitation.
Investigation of Attenuation and Directional Characteristics of Millimeter Wave Propagation in Urban Environment Using Ray Tracing Technique
Authors: Adula Segni Merga , Diba Feyisa Debo , Gebretsadik Atli Lemma
Published: July 2021

Future high densification wireless networks come with high handoff rates, which require knowledge of mobile speed. Mobile speed estimation is crucial for optimizing handover to reduce call drops and network signaling flow, optimize traffic scheduling, improve quality of service, achieve resource optimization, mobility load balancing, channel quality feedback enhancement, and energy efficiency. In this paper, we present a low complexity mobile speed estimation model using count of peaks and troughs of the received signal envelop. We simulated the model in Matlab® and our result shows that the model has a maximum error of 0.25 m/sec. The model has two advantages. First, it does not require measurement of the received signal power; it only counts envelop peaks and troughs. Second, the model is independent of dc offset inherent in the radio receivers. However, the model has one limitation- it does not give the crossing component of a mobile’s velocity.
Delirium in Covid-19 Patients: Incidence, Risk Factors and Early Outcomes.
Authors: Mejia-Mantilla Jorge Humberto , Gempeler Andrés , Gaviria Leidy K , Amaya Pablo , Aldana Jose Luis , Muñoz Beatriz Elena , Pinilla Gabriel , Rivillas Julian , Scarpetta Diego , Perdomo Cristhian Camilo Rojas , Echeverri Nicolás Orozco , Sotomayor Alex , Yara Julián , Jimenez Javier A , Arango Akemi , Orozco Jorge Luis
Published: July 2021

Background

Delirium is a frequent event in severely ill patients; its incidence and prevalence varies depending on several factors; Covid has been associated to high incidence of delirium leading to speculation of specific mechanisms of neurotoxicity by the SARS-CoV-2. We present the analysis of risk factors for delirium incidence and the impact of delirium in the functional outcomes.
Methods

We included patients admitted to a referral center in Cali, Colombia between April and August 2020. Patients were evaluated for demographics, severity of disease, comorbidities, clinical outcomes, delirium and survival at discharge. We evaluated the association of patient characteristics and disease factors with delirium incidence by multivariate analysis (Hosmer and Lemeshow) and the associations of delirium with functional outcome at discharge
Results

Among 333 patients, 58 (17.42%. 95% CI: 13.62–21.77%) presented delirium 16 (IQR: 11 − 20) days after symptom onset. Patients with delirium were older, reported muscular weakness more often, had a higher NEWS2 score at admission, and had more comorbidities (mainly Diabetes Mellitus II). Multivariate analysis of hospitalization events and treatments found mechanical ventilation as the only significant covariate. The association between need for mechanical ventilation and delirium development was estimated at OR = 11.72, (95%CI = 4.16–34.23). Patients who developed delirium had a higher frequency of functional impairment: mRs > 2 (70.7% vs 24.7%, p < 0.001) and had a prolonged ICU stay (median 13 days, IQR 8–21 vs median 5, IQR 3–10 days, p < 0.0001) compared to patients without delirium.
Conclusion

Our data show that premorbid functional status, the severity of respiratory disfunction and the presence of inflammatory markers are determinant in the risk of delirium; we believe that delirium might not be specially related to SARS-CoV-2 infections, its high frequency during this pandemic could be the result of concurring factors shared between critically-ill patients and severe COVID-19 patients. Further research is granted to clarify this aspect
Metamaterial based Printed Circuit Antenna for Blood Glucose Level Sensing Applications
Authors: Ali Dhulfiqar , Elwi Taha A. , Özbay Serkan
Published: July 2021

Due to the urgent need to develop technologies for continuous glucose monitoring in diabetes individuals, a potential research has been applied by invoking the microwave techniques. Therefore, this work presents a novel technique based on a single port microwave circuit, antenna structure, based on Metamaterial (MTM) transmission line defected patch for sensing the blood glucose level in noninvasive process. For that, the proposed antenna is invoked to measure the blood glucose through the field leakages penetrated to the human blood through the skin. The proposed sensor is constructed from a closed loop connected to an interdigital capacitor to magnify the electric field fringing at the patch center. The proposed antenna sensor is found to operate excellently at the first mode, 0.6GHz, with S11 impedance matching less than − 10dB. The proposed sensor performance is tested experimentally with 15 cases, different patients, through measuring the change in the S11 spectra after direct touching to the sensor a finger print of a patient. The proposed sensor is found to be effectively very efficient detector for blood glucose variation with a low manufacturing cost when printed on an FR-4 substrate. The experimental measurements are analyzed mathematically to obtain the calibration equation of the sensor from the curve fitting. Finally, the theoretical and the experimental results are found to be agreed very well with a percentage of error less than 10%.
Assessment of Organic Contamination along the Coast of Laizhou Bay, China: Combining Chemical Analysis and Integrated Biomarker Responses in the Clam Ruditapes Philippinarum
Authors: Wang Zhifeng , Shao Yuanyuan , Li Chaona , Liu Lei , Zhu Li , Wu Daoji
Published: July 2021

The marine coastal area is facing serious challenges due to several artificial pollution sources. An investigative biomonitoring survey was conducted along the coastal area of Laizhou Bay, China, which combined an evaluation of organic pollution and biomarker responses in the clam Ruditapes philippinarum. Meanwhile, the contents of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPHs) and nonylphenol (NP) in surface sediments at the biomonitoring sites were measured. The results indicated that a complex mixture by these toxic organic pollutants was prevalent throughout the entire area. Concentrations (mean ± standard error) of PCBs, TPHs and NP in sediments of the study area were 1.90 ± 0.10 µg kg-1, 39.55 ± 2.42 mg kg-1, 9.23 ± 0.41 µg kg-1 dry weight, respectively. Biomarker responses of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), Glutathione S-transferase (GST), total glutathione (GSHt) and lipid peroxidation (LPO) levels were assayed in the gills and digestive glands of R. philippinarum collected from eleven sites. Finally, biomarker responses obtained in gills were selected to calculate the integrated biomarker response (IBR) index and to assess the impact of integrated organic contaminants from different stations. The site S2 exhibited an IBR value of 2.65 and was considered as the place with the greatest stress in coastal environment. The western coast (S1-S4) and eastern coast (S9-S11) exhibited higher environmental stress than the sampling sites along the southern coast of Laizhou Bay. PCBs and NP were the main organic pollutants which have caused high level of pollution pressure on R. philippinarum in Laizhou Bay coastal area. The integrated assessment approach of organic contamination which combined chemical analysis and multi-biomarker responses was proved to be practical and useful in coastal environment assessment programs.
A Framework for Vibration Attenuation in Traffic Mast-Arm Structures under Wind Loads
Authors: Aly Aly , Gol-Zaroudi Hamzeh , Rezaee Milad
Published: July 2021

Traffic signals and information signs play a vivid role in guiding drivers on highways and urban roads, to maintain safe travel. For this reason, it is crucial to ascertain the functionality of signal support structures. This paper lies the foundation for a fully computational framework to model and attenuate wind-induced vibrations in traffic lighting structures by using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations & dynamic analysis. Dependence of flow pattern and aerodynamic loads on Reynolds number reveals the importance of full-scale CFD with Large Eddy Simulation for mast arm structures. By employing available weights of lighting boxes, distributed tuned mass dampers were created. The results obtained show that distributed tuned lighting boxes are effective devices for vibration suppression. In addition, damping enhancement can significantly reduce vibration-induced stresses, and hence extend the fatigue life with promises to reduce the cost of building new structures and improve the safety of the traveling public. The procedure followed for creating time histories of wind loads integrated with finite element modeling is useful for the investigation of other vibration lessening techniques.
Birthweight And Postnatal Growth As Predictors of Elevated Blood Pressure In Adolescents of Low Socioeconomic Condition: A Cohort Study In Northeast Brazil
Authors: Oliveira Marcelo S , Gonçalves Fabiana C L S P , Lira Pedro I. C. , Filho Sidrack L Vila Nova , Eickmann Sophie H , Lima Marilia C
Published: July 2021

Objective: To evaluate low birthweight and rapid postnatal weight gain as predictors of elevated blood pressure in adolescence in a population of low socioeconomic status.Methods: A cohort study was carried out with 208 adolescents, 78 born with low weight and 130 born with appropriate weight. The infants were followed up during the first six postnatal months and reassessed at 8 and 18 years of age. The main exposure variables were birth weight and weight gain in the first six postnatal months. Rapid weight gain was defined when above 0.67 z score. The investigated co-variables were: sex, maternal height and family income at birth, breastfeeding duration from birth to six months, nutritional status at eight years old, socioeconomic conditions, nutritional status, fat mass index and physical activity level at 18 years. The outcome variable was the occurrence of elevated blood pressure at 18 years old.Results: The proportion of adolescents with elevated blood pressure was 37.5%. The multivariable logistic regression analysis showed the variables independently associated with a higher chance of elevated blood pressure in adolescence were rapid postnatal weight gain (OR=2.74; 95% CI 1.22-6.14; p=0.014), male sex (OR=4.15; 95% CI 1.66-40 10.38; p=0.002) and being physically active (OR=2.70; 95% CI 1.08-6.74; p=0.034).Conclusions: The occurrence of rapid weight gain in the first six postnatal months was a predictor for elevated blood pressure in adolescence. This result highlights the influence of factors related to development in early childhood on health problems in the future.
Identification And Validation of A Cigarette Smoke-Related Five-Gene Signature As A Prognostic Biomarker In Kidney Renal Clear Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Huang Yefei , Wang Qinzhi , Tang Yu , Liu Zixuan , Sun Guixiang , Lu Zhaojun , Chen Yansu
Published: July 2021

Cigarette smoking greatly promotes the progression of kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC), however, the underlying molecular events has not been fully established. In this study, RCC cells were exposed to the tobacco specific nitrosamine 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK, nicotine-derived nitrosamine ketone) for 120 days, and then the soft agar colony formation, wound healing and transwell assays were used to explore characteristics of RCC cells. RNA-seq was used to explore differentially expressed genes. We found that NNK promoted RCC cell growth and migration in a dose-dependent manner, and RNA-seq explored 14 differentially expressed genes. In TCGA-KIRC cohort, Lasso regression and multivariate COX regression models screened and constructed a five-gene signature containing ANKRD1, CYB5A, ECHDC3, MT1E, and AKT1S1. This novel gene signature significantly associated with TNM stage, invasion depth, metastasis, and tumor grade. Moreover, when compared with individual genes, the gene signature contained a higher hazard ratio and therefore had a more powerful value for the prognosis of KIRC. A nomogram was also developed based on clinical features and the gene signature, which showed good application. Finally, AKT1S1, the most crucial component of the gene signature, was significantly induced after NNK exposure and its related AKT-mTOR signaling pathway was dramatically activated. Our findings supported that NNK exposure would promote the KIRC progression, and the novel cigarette smoke-related five-gene signature might serve as a highly efficient biomarker to identify progression of KIRC patients, AKT1S1 might play an important role in cigarette smoke exposure-induced KIRC progression.
Complete Chloroplast Genome Sequences of Three Aroideae Species (Araceae): Lights into Selective Pressure, Marker Development and Phylogenetic Relationships
Authors: Li Bicong , Liu Tao , Ali Asjad , Xiao Yao , Shan Nan , Sun Jingyu , Huang Yingjin , Zhou Qinghong , zhu Qianglong
Published: July 2021

Background : Colocasia gigantea, Caladium bicolor and Xanthosoma sagittifolium are three worldwide famous ornamental and/or vegetable plants in the Araceae family, these species in the subfamily Aroideae are taxonomically perplexing due to shared interspecific morphological traits and variation.Result : This study, for the first time ever, assembled and analyzed complete chloroplast genomes of C. gigantea, C. bicolor and X. sagittifolium with genome sizes of 165,906 bp, 153,149 bp and 165,169 bp in length, respectively. The genomes were composed of conserved quadripartite circular structures with a total of 131 annotated genes, including 8 rRNA, 37 tRNA and 86 protein-coding genes. A comparison within Aroideae showed seven protein-coding genes (accD, ndhF, ndhK, rbcL, rpoC1, rpoC2 and matK) linked to environmental adaptation. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed a close relationship of C. gigantea with C. esculenta and S. colocasiifolia, and the C. bicolor with X. sagittifolium. Furthermore, three DNA barcodes (atpH-atpI + psaC-ndhE, atpH-atpI + trnS-trnG, atpH-atpI + psaC-ndhE + trnS-trnG) harbored highly variable regions to distinguish species in Aroideae subfamily.Conclusion : These results would be beneficial for species identification, phylogenetic relationship, genetic diversity, and potential of germplasm resources in Aroideae.
Long-term Specific IgG Response to SARS-CoV-2 Nucleocapsid Protein in Recovered COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Chansaenroj Jira , Yorsaeng Ritthideach , Posuwan Nawarat , Puenpa Jiratchaya , Wanlapakorn Nasamon , Sudhinaraset Natthinee , Sripram Manit , Chalongviriyalert Piti , Jirajariyavej Supunee , Kiatpanabhikul Phatharaporn , Saiyarin Jatuporn , Soudon Chulikorn , Thienfaidee Orawan , Ayuthaya Thitisan Palakawong Na , Brukesawan Chantapat , Chirathaworn Chintana , Intharasongkroh Duangnapa , Chaiwanichsiri Dootchai , Issarasongkhram Mila , Kitphati Rungrueng , Mungaomklang Anek , Nagavajara Pijaya , Poovorawan Yong
Published: July 2021

This study monitored the long-term immune response to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV)-2 infection in patients who had recovered from coronavirus disease (COVID)-19. Anti-nucleocapsid immunoglobulin G (anti-N IgG) titer in serum samples collected at a single (N=302) or multiple time points (N=229) 3–12 months after COVID-19 symptom onset or SARS-CoV-2 detection in respiratory specimens was measured by semiquantitative chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay. The 531 patients (966 specimens) were classified according to the presence or absence of pneumonia symptoms. Anti‑N IgG was detected in 87.5% of patients (328/375) at 3 months, 38.6% (93/241) at 6 months, 23.7% (49/207) at 9 months, and 26.6% (38/143) at 12 months. The anti-N IgG seropositivity rate was significantly lower at 6, 9, and 12 months than at 3 months (P<0.01) and was higher in the pneumonia group than in the non-pneumonia/asymptomatic group at 6 months (P<0.01), 9 months (P=0.04), and 12 months (P=0.04). The rate started to decline 6–12 months after symptom onset. Anti-N IgG sample/cutoff index was positively correlated with age (r=0.192, P<0.01) but negatively correlated with interval between symptom onset and blood sampling (r=−0.567, P<0.01). These findings can guide vaccine strategies in recovered COVID-19 patients.
Revisiting The Averaged Problem in The Case of Mean-Motion Resonances of The Restricted Three-Body Problem. Global Rigorous Treatment and Application To The Co-Orbital Motion.
Authors: Pousse Alexandre , Alessi Elisa Maria
Published: July 2021

A classical approach to the restricted three-body problem is to analyze the dynamics of the massless body in the synodic reference frame. A different approach is represented by the perturbative treatment: in particular the averaged problem of a mean-motion resonance allows to investigate the long-term behavior of the solutions through a suitable approximation that focuses on a particular region of the phase space.
In this paper, we intend to bridge a gap between the two approaches in the specific case of mean-motion resonant dynamics, establish the limit of validity of the averaged problem, and take advantage of its results in order to compute trajectories in the synodic reference frame.
After the description of each approach, we develop a rigorous treatment of the averaging process, estimate the size of the transformation and prove that the averaged problem is a suitable approximation of the restricted three-body problem as long as the solutions are located outside the Hill's sphere of the secondary. In such a case, a rigorous theorem of stability over finite but large timescales can be proven. We establish that a solution of the averaged problem provides an accurate approximation of the trajectories on the synodic reference frame within a finite time that depend on the minimal distance to the Hill's sphere of the secondary.
The last part of this work is devoted to the co-orbital motion (i.e., the dynamics in 1:1 mean-motion resonance) in the circular-planar case. In this case, an interpretation of the solutions of the averaged problem in the synodic reference frame is detailed and a method that allows to compute co-orbital trajectories is displayed.
Identifying TB hotspots through mobile X-rays in Karachi, Pakistan: spatial analysis of data from an active case-finding program
Authors: Zaidi Syed Mohammad Asad , Jamal Wafa Zehra , Mergenthaler Christina , Azeemi Kiran Sohail , Berge Nick Van Den , Creswell Jacob , Khan Aamir , Khowaja Saira , Habib Shifa Salman
Published: July 2021

IntroductionTuberculosis (TB) is the leading cause of avoidable deaths from an infectious disease globally and a large of number of people who develop TB each year remain undiagnosed. Active case-finding has been recommended by the World Health Organization to bridge the case-detection gap for TB in high burden countries. However, concerns remain regarding their yield and cost-effectiveness. MethodsData from mobile chest X-ray (CXR) supported active case-finding community camps conducted in Karachi, Pakistan from July 2017- March 2020 was retrospectively analyzed. After a CXR screening supported by computer-aided detection, those with presumptive TB were counselled to submit a sputum sample for Xpert MTB/RIF testing. Frequency analysis was carried out at the camp-level and outcomes of interest for the spatial analyses were mycobacterium TB positivity (MTB+) and X-ray abnormality ratios. The Moran’s I statistic was used to test for spatial autocorrelation for MTB+ and abnormal X-rays within Union Councils (UCs) in Karachi. Local Indicators of Spatial Autocorrelation analyses were performed for UCs within Karachi. Point-pattern analyses were carried out utilizing GPS coordinates recorded at the camp sites and were analyzed for spatial autocorrelation using Getis Ord Star tests.ResultsA total of 1,161 (78.1%) camps yielded no MTB+ cases, 246 (16.5%) camps yielded 1 MTB+, 52 (3.5%) camps yielded 2 MTB+ and 27 (1.8%) yielded 3 or more MTB+. A total of 79 (5.3%) camps accounted for 193 (44.0%) of MTB+ cases detected. Statistically significant clustering for MTB positivity (Moran’s I: 0.09) and abnormal chest X-rays (Moran’s I: 0.36) ratios was identified within UCs in Karachi. Clustering of UCs with high MTB positivity were identified in Karachi West district. Clusters of camp locations with high MTB+ ratios were identified in Karachi South and Karachi West districts and in several locations in the north and eastern peripheries of the city. ConclusionStatistically significant spatial variation was identified in yield of bacteriologically positive TB cases and in abnormal CXR through active case-finding in Karachi. Cost-effectiveness of active case-finding programs can be improved by identifying and focusing interventions in hotspots and avoiding locations with no known TB cases reported through routine surveillance.
Validation and Modification of the American Joint Commission on Cancer 8th Edition Staging System for Patients With Anal Squamous Cell Cancer: A Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results Analysis
Authors: Lin Yao , Li Chengguo , yang wenchang , Wang Tao , Chen Xin , Sun Xiong , Zhang Peng , Tao Kaixiong
Published: July 2021

This study aimed to validate the clinical utility of American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) 8th edition staging system for anal squamous cell cancer (ASCC). Further, Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database (2004–2015) was used to validate the practicability of 8th AJCC stages. Disease-specific survival (DSS) and overall survival (OS) were evaluated using Kaplan-Meier analysis. Hazard ratios (HRs) were calculated using Cox regression analysis. Furthermore, the modification was validated using Kaplan-Meier analysis and calculating the concordance index (C-index). A total of 11891 patients with ASCC were analysed. the 5-year DSSs for stage I, IIA, IIB, IIIA, IIIB, IIIC, and IV were 93.8%, 87.4%, 76.2%, 76.9%, 72.0%, 66.1%, and 34.9%. We found the OS and DSS of IIIA patients showed better than IIB. After hazard analysis, modified IIIA patients showed worse OS and DSS than IIB. C-indexes were increased from 0.612 to 0.636 for DSS and from 0.566 to 0.582 for OS of stage II and III ASCCs. In conclusion, our study validated 8th AJCC staging system as overall suitable classification with a few defects. Thus, we suggested modifications in II and III stages to make it more suitable for ASCCs that could be adopted in clinical practice.
Influence of Social Psychological Status On Efavirenz And Nevirapine Plasma Concentration Among HIV Patients In Kenya
Authors: Ngayo Musa Otieno , Oluka Margaret , Bulimo Wallace Dimbuson , Okalebo Faith Apolot
Published: July 2021

HIV-related stigma, lack of disclosure and social support are still a hindrance to HIV testing, care, and prevention. We evaluated the influence of these socio-phycological status on nevirapine (NVP) and efavirenz (EFV) plasma concentrations among HIV patients in Kenya. Blood samples were obtained from 254 and 312 consenting HIV patients on NVP and EFV based first-line Antiretroviral therapy (ART) respectively and a detailed structured questionnaire was administered. The NVP and EFV plasma level was measured by liquid chromatography - tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The median duration of living with HIV infection was 5 years (IQR = 1–11years) and a median duration since ART initiation was 3 years (IQR = 1–8 years). There were 68.1% and 65.4% of the patients on NVP and EFV respectively who did not feel guilty for being HIV positive. The disclosure rate was about 96.1% and 94.6% of patients on NVP and EFV respectively. About 85% and 78.2% of patients on NVP and EFV respectively who got social support as much as needed. The non-adherence to ART in the past 30 days was 64.6% and 66.3% patients on NVP and EFV respectively. The median (IQR) plasma concentration were [6237.5 ng/mL, IQR 45188–8964 ng/mL] for NVP and [2739.5 ng/mL, IQR 1878 –4891.5 ng/mL] for EFV. There were 14.2% and 4.5% patients on NVP and EFV respectively with suboptimal plasma concertation associated with poor viral suppression. Multivariate linear regression analysis showed feeling guilty for being HIV positive (adjusted β = 954, 95% CI = 192.7 to 2156.6; p =0.014) or feeling worthless for being HIV positive (adjusted β = 852, 95% CI = 64.3 to 1639.7; p =0.034); being certain of telling the primary sexual partner about HIV positive status (adjusted β 363, 95% CI, 97.9 to 628.1; p = 0.007); disclosing HIV status to neighbors (adjusted β = 1731, 95% CI = 376 to 3086; p =0.012) and getting transportation to hospital whenever needed (adjusted β = -1143.3, 95% CI = -1914.3 to -372.4; p =0.004) were associated with NVP/EFV plasma levels. The NVP and EFV plasma level was highly heterogenous with a significant proportion of patients reporting levels correlated with poor viral suppression. The patient’s stigma, lack of disclosure and social support contributes significantly on the overall ART treatment outcome. Taking these factors into consideration, HIV treatment may be personalized to achieve optimal treatment success
Epidemic Modeling of Multiple Virus Strains: A Case Study of SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.7 In Moscow
Authors: Tseytlin Boris , Makarov Ilya
Published: July 2021

During a long-running pandemic a pathogen can mutate, producing new strains with different epidemiological parameters. Existing approaches to epidemic modeling only consider one virus strain. We have developed a modified Susceptible-Exposed-Infected-Recovered model to simulate multiple virus strains within the same population. As a case study, we investigate the potential effects of SARS-CoV-2 strain B.1.1.7 on the city of Moscow. Our analysis indicates a high risk of a new wave of infections in September-October 2021 with up to 35 000 daily infections at peak. We open-source our code and data.
Naprapathy Versus Orthopaedic Standard Care for Common Musculoskeletal Disorders: An 8-year Follow-up of a Pragmatic Randomized Controlled Trial in Sweden
Authors: Lilje Stina , Eklund Andreas , Wykman Anders , Sundberg Tobias , Skillgate Eva
Published: July 2021

Background: Musculoskeletal pain is among the most common reasons for seeking care, specialist competence for its treatment in primary care limited and waiting lists for orthopaedics often amongst the longest. Many referrals to orthopaedics do not concern disorders that benefit from surgery. Manual therapy is effective, yet not integrated in national health care systems, and there is a lack of research on other than neck and low back pain, and a lack of long-term follow-ups. The present study evaluates the long-term effects of a complementary therapy for common orthopaedic disorders.Methods: An 8-year follow-up (96 months) of a pragmatic randomized controlled trial of naprapathy (experimental group) versus standard orthopaedic care (control group) for non-surgical patients of working age with the most common musculoskeletal disorders on the waiting lists(n=78). Bodily pain, physical function (SF36), Quality of life (QoL; SF6D), and data on health care utilization were collected.Results: N=75 participants in the original study sample completed the 8-year follow-up. The differences in bodily pain (21,7 (95% CI: 9,1-34,3)), physical function (17,6(6,7-28,4)), and QoLs (0,823 (95% CI: 0.785-0.862) compared with 0,713 (95% CI: 0.668-0.758)) were statistically significantly in favor of the experimental group (p-values<0,01). After sensitivity analysis the experimental group had altogether 260 health care visits compared with 1 161 in the control group.Conclusions:Naprapathy is a continuously effective treatment. Together with earlier research our study suggests that specialized manual therapy should be considered when triaging patients with common non-surgical musculoskeletal disorders in national health care systems.Trial registration: Not applicable, as per information given by ClinicalTrials.gov.
Fracture Characteristics of The Laser Bonding Joint Between The Aluminum Alloy and The CFRTP With Preset Aluminum Alloy Sheet
Authors: Luo Jiebang , Bu Hengchang , Wang Feiyun , Zhan Xiaohong , Yu Min , Liu Dongtao
Published: July 2021

This paper presents a method to improve the laser joint strength between carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastic composite (CFRTP) and aluminum alloy. In this method, the aluminum alloy sheet is preset between the polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and carbon cloth, while the CFRTP with preset aluminum alloy sheet is attained by the compression molding method. The CFRTP with preset aluminum alloy sheet is connected to the aluminum alloy by laser heat source, and the maximum load of the joint can reach 4264 N. Microstructure and fracture surface morphology of joint are observed and analyzed. The results indicate that the element diffusion between the preset aluminum alloy sheet and CFRTP shows more significant compared with the interface of aluminum alloy and CFRTP due to the effect of hot pressing. The fracture failure mode of the lap structure between aluminum alloy and CFRTP is mixed fracture with adhesion fracture as the main component. The fracture position of preset aluminum alloy sheet and aluminum alloy lap structure occurs near the weld seam fusion line, while the fracture behavior presents a ductile fracture. The joint bonding force is mainly attributed to the collective effect of two lap structures, during the stretching process, the interface between aluminum alloy and CFRTP first undergoes fracture, then preset aluminum alloy sheet undergoes plastic fracture failure.
To What Degree Could Clinical Trials in Evidence Based Medicine Reflect The Real World in The Treatment of Pneumonia?
Authors: Asai Nobuhiro , Shibata Yuichi , Sakanashi Daisuke , Shiota Arufumi , Kato Hideo , Hagihara Mao , Koizumi Yusuke , Yamagishi Yuka , Suematsu Hiroyuki , Mikamo Hiroshige
Published: July 2021

BackgroundEvidenced based medicine (EBM) is necessary to standardize treatments for infections because EBM　has been established based on the results of clinical trials. Since entry criteria for clinical trials are　very strict, it ​may cause skepticism or question whether the results of clinical trials　reflect the real world ​of medical practice.MethodsTo examine how many patients could join any randomized clinical trials for the　treatment of community-onset pneumonia, we reviewed all the pneumonia patients in our institute　during 2014-2017. The patients were divided into two groups: patients who were eligible for clinical　trials (participation possible group), and those who were not (participation impossible group).　Exclusion criteria for clinical trials were set based on previous clinical trials.ResultsA total of 406 patients were enrolled in the present study. Fifty-seven (14%) patients were categorized into the participation possible group, while 86% ​of patients belonged to the participation impossible group. Patients in the participation possible group had less comorbidities and ​more favorable outcomes than those with the participation impossible group. As for the outcomes, there were significant differences in the 30-day and in-hospital mortality rates between the two groups. In addition, the participation possible group showed a longer overall survival time than the participation impossible group (p<0.001 by Log-Rank test).ConclusionThere is a difference in patients’ profile and outcomes between clinical trials and the real world. Though EBM is essential to advance ​medicine, we should acknowledge the fact​s and the limit​s of the clinical trial.