bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mapeamento e potencialidades das trilhas da Universidade Federal de Lavras para educação ambiental e práticas recreativas na natureza
Authors: Naves Rodrigo da Silva , Borém Rosângela Alves Tristão , Costa Emanuelle Aparecida da , Oliveira Gustavo de Sousa , Assis Gleice Aparecida de , Assis Franscinely Aparecida de , Marques Érica Alves
Published: February 2021

A Educação Ambiental tem se tornado uma grande aliada para a conscientização de boas práticas de saúde e convivência com meio ambiente. Objetivou-se com a realização desse trabalho mapear e classificar as trilhas existentes na Universidade Federal de Lavras, expondo o potencial das mesmas à sociedade por meio de palestras nas escolas estaduais e municipais da cidade. As trilhas foram mapeadas por caminhamento usando um aparelho GPS Garmin, modelo GPSMAP 62 sc. Posteriormente os dados coletados foram transferidos para o programa Base Camp, que tem como função traçar a rota do percurso, e em seguida os dados foram plotados para o Google Earth, fornecendo a imagem por satélite de toda a extensão da trilha. Com base no mapeamento das trilhas da Universidade Federal de Lavras, distinguem-se áreas com diferentes graus de declividade e ambientes florísticos e com fauna diversificada, o que instiga a sugestão de trilhas para alunos (as) em função da faixa etária. Para discentes do Ensino Fundamental I e II recomenda-se a Trilha das Lagoas, por apresentar baixo grau de declividade, fácil acesso, distância intermediária e pontos recreativos à beira das lagoas para práticas de piquenique. Já para alunos (as) do Ensino Médio, a Trilha da Capela e Trilha dos Eucaliptos, por apresentarem um ambiente mais diversificado, seria a mais indicada, sendo inclusive propícia para prática de atividades de aventura na natureza. O levantamento e classificação dessas áreas podem contribuir para futuras pesquisas em outros projetos dentro da Universidade.
Utilização de suplementos alimentares por praticantes de atividade física
Authors: Almeida Priscylla Tavares , Teixeira Ygor , Santos Naila Thailane Queiroz dos , Tavares Michele Amaro , Sobreira Leilane de Oliveira Azevedo , Oliveira Rainara de Souza , Araújo Yasmin Trindade Evangelista de , Figueiredo Ana Karine Gomes de , Sobreira Cícero Jordan Rodrigues , Menezes Carla Maria Bezerra de , Cunha Laís Amorim Queiroga Carneiro da , Lima Samara Chaves de , Araújo Brunna da Cruz , Lima Laurineide Rocha , Hartcopff Priscille Fidelis Pacheco , Santana Esaú Nicodemos da Cruz , Sousa Luciana Nunes de , Silva Paulina Nunes da
Published: February 2021

Introdução: Um dos aspectos que tem definido a sociedade de consumo é a crescente importância atribuída à imagem corporal. Com isso, consolidou-se nas diversas faixas etárias a busca pela prática de atividades físicas em academias nas suas diversas modalidades. Sabe-se que a ingestão adequada de nutrientes está relacionada com a melhora do rendimento do organismo frente ao desempenho esportivo. Em busca de potencializar resultados nos exercícios os praticantes são conduzidos à procura de recursos com o intuito de alcançar o objetivo a curto prazo. Dentre esses recursos se destacam os suplementos alimentares, estes podem ser adquiridos facilmente, sendo muitas vezes utilizados de forma indevida com o propósito ergogênico e puramente estético. Objetivo: avaliar, através de uma revisão, a prevalência do uso da suplementação alimentar por usuários de academias. Método: Trata-se de uma revisão sistemática acerca do uso de suplementos alimentares em frequentadores de academia realizada na Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval Sistem On-line (MEDLINE/PUBMED e Google acadêmico, utilizando os termos: suplementos alimentares, atividade física, imagem corporal. A seleção respeitou critérios de inclusão/exclusão previamente elencados. Resultados: Foram selecionados 28 artigos, dentre eles 12 cumpriram aos requisitos. Os estudos mostram acerca da prevalência do uso suplementos por usuários de academias são maiores em homens do que em mulheres. O principal motivo observado pela utilização de suplementos alimentares foi a busca pela hipertrofia muscular, sendo os produtos proteicos os mais consumidos dentre os suplementos, no entanto, observaram-se que a prescrição de tais suplementos não é realizada por profissionais habilitados, sendo os instrutores de academia, seguido de amigos, vendedores de lojas, auto prescrição e por último nutricionistas. Observou-se que os maiores consumidores de suplementos alimentares são praticantes de musculação, visto que é uma modalidade que mescla o desenvolvimento muscular como para melhores resultados estéticos. Conclusão: Portanto, a fim de diminuir o uso indevido, se faz preciso a presença de profissional especializado para atuar em academias ou em locais em que se pratique exercícios físicos, fornecendo orientações nutricionais a fim de melhorar o grau de informação e garantir segurança na utilização desses produtos.
Lithium therapy in literature and art
Authors: Rybakowski Janusz
Published: February 2021

Introduction. In 1949, Australian psychiatrist John Cade described a therapeutic action of lithium carbonate in mania. This date is regarded as an introduction of lithium into contemporary psychiatric therapeutics and the beginning of modern psychopharmacology. In the early 1960s, a prophylactic activity of lithium was observed, preventing recurrences of affective episodes in mood disorders. Lithium has become a prototype of the mood-stabilising drugs and remains a drug of the first choice for the prophylaxis of recurrences in bipolar mood disorder.

Literature review. Both the introduction of lithium into psychiatric therapy and its therapeutic action has been reflected in literature and art. This article presents the connections of lithium therapy with literature and art. They pertain to such characters as John Cade, Salvador Luria, Patty Duke, Kay Jamison, Jerzy Broszkiewicz, Ota Pavel, Robert Lowell, Jaime Lowe, Nicole Lyons, Kurt Cobain, Sting, and the band Evanescence.

Conclusions. Special attention was given to the book Unquiet mind, written in 1996 by Kay Jamison, professor of psychology. In the book, her personal bipolar disorder and lithium treatment were described from the viewpoint of the eminent professional. Polish translation of the book titled Niespokojny umysł already has two editions: in 2000 and 2018.
PROSPECTIVE EVALUATION OF MEDIUM-TERM OUTCOMES OF PATIENTS UNDERGOING HYSTEROSCOPIC UTERINE SEPTUM RESECTION
Authors: ÇİRKİN TEKEŞ Gülten , GÜNDÜZ Reyhan , BOZBAY Nizamettin , BUĞDAY Rezan , AĞAÇAYAK Elif
Published: February 2021

Objectives: To retrospectively and prospectively investigate the pregnancy outcomes after hysteroscopy (H/S) for septum resection in patients detected to have a uterine septum after presenting with a history of recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL), diagnosis of secondary infertility or primary infertility. Methods: This study included 62 patients with infertility or a history of RPL who underwent hysteroscopic uterine septum resection. Patients who had uterine anomalies other than a uterine septum, such as submucous myoma, endometrial polyp were excluded. Those discharged home with a live infant after a uterine septum operation were compared based on certain variables, those who succeeded and those who failed were categorized into group 1 and group 2, respectively. The two groups were compared with regard to the total number of deliveries before and after the operation, total number of abortions, preterm and term deliveries, delivery methods, control hysterosalpingographies (HSG) and whether they were reoperated. Results: In our study, 25 (40%) patients were primary infertile, 37 (60%) had secondary infertility or a history of RPL. Hysteroscopic septum resection was performed under general anesthesia in 61 and spinal anesthesia in 1 of these patients. Of the patients who were postoperatively discharged home with a live infant, 8 (26.7%) were determined to be primary infertile and 22 (73.3%) to have secondary infertility or a history of RPL. The rate of discharge with a live infant was determined as 76.9% among patients who conceived. The success rate of Group 1 patients, who were secondary infertile or had history of RPL, was significantly higher compared to patients who were primary infertile. Conclusions: Hysteroscopic uterine septum resection is a method with an easy application and high effectiveness. The success of the operation is particularly higher in patients who have a history of RPL or are secondary infertile compared with patients who are primary infertile.
Intestinal microbial diversity and functional analysis of Urechis unicinctus from two different habitats: pond polycultured with Penaeus japonicus and coastal zone
Authors: Tang Y , Ma S , Liu Y , Pi Y , Liu Y , Zhao Y
Published: February 2021

Urechis unicinctus is an important commercial and ecological invertebrate that has potential applications in the study of marine invertebrate evolution and marine pharmaceutical development. Here we analyzed the intestinal microbial diversity of U. unicinctus from 2 different habitats using 16S rDNA 454 high-throughput sequencing. The dominant phyla were Proteobacteria, Bacterioidetes, Firmicutes, and Actinobacteria in gut samples of U. unicinctus, which significantly differed from those in its 2 habitats (i.e. intertidal mudflat and pond polyculture). Exceptions were Proteobacteria, Firmicutes and Bacterioidetes, which were the dominant phyla in the sediment and water samples. The top 15 genera in the gut samples did not show any significant differences between the 2 habitats. Functional analysis of the intestinal microbial community showed that metabolism, including carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism, was the most important function. Methane metabolism was one of the main components of energy metabolism. The gut microbes also played an important role in environmental and genetic information processing, cellular processes, etc. These findings provide an understanding of gut microbiome composition and diversity in U. unicinctus from 2 different habitats. Our results can inform the management of animal health in U. unicinctus farming activities and further gut microecology research.
Effect of Height Differences on the Retention and Wear Behaviour of Ball Attachment System Over Mandibular Dual Implants
Authors: Hariharan Ramakrishnan , Manimala M , Vidhya J , Azhagarasan NS , Jayakrishnakumar S , Vallabh Mahadevan
Published: February 2021

Purpose of the study: To comparatively evaluate the effect of height differences on the retention and wear behaviour of ball attachment system over mandibular dual implants. Materials and methods: Two groups of twenty samples each containing polymerised master block of dual implant analogues at same height in Group 1 and dual implant analogues of different heights in Group 2 were fabricated along with ball abutments, nylon cap and metal housing. Qualitative analysis of samples for wear factor were carried out using stereomicroscope and quantitative analysis of retention force at baseline, 360, 720, 1080, 1440 insertion-removal cycles were determined using Universal testing machine. statistical analysis were carried out using independent ‘t’ test and paired sample ‘t’ test.
Atasi Limbah Organik Melalui Pelatihan Pembuatan Pupuk Kompos Metode Keranjang Takakura Kepada Kelompok Dawis Cempaka Semarang
Authors: Mayasari Dita Ayu
Published: February 2021

Permasalahan terkait komposisi sampah, pengolahan sampah, pengurangan sampah hingga pencemaran lingkungan seperti ini akan menjadi masalah besar apabila tidak ditangani dengan benar. Permaslahan tersebut dapat diselesaikan dengan solusi untuk menciptakan keadaan lingkungan yang sehat, bersih dan memberikan keuntungan dari sisi ekonomis karena dapat dikelola dengan mudah untuk dijadikan pupuk kompos sebagai pemanfaatan teknologi tepat guna komposter. Pembuatan pupuk kompos dengan metode keranjang Takakura dinilai tepat untuk menyelesaiakan permasalahan sampah mulai dari komposisi, pengolahan, mengurangi dan pemanfaatan sampah. Masalah yang dihadapi kelompok Dawis Cempaka adalah kurangnya informasi dan keterbatasan pengetahuan dari warga setempat, yang belum memahami inovasi bari pembuatan pupuk kompos metode keranjang Takakura dimana metode ini juga sebagai alternatif pembuatan pupuk kompos alami seperti LRB (Lubang Resapan Biopori) dengan kendala keterbatasan lahan sehingga media komposer diganti dengan metode keranjang Takakura. Pengetahuan terkait pemanfaatan sampah rumah tangga bagi ibu-ibu Kleompok Dawis Cempaka semakin berkembang memlalui kegiatan pengabdian Pelatihan Pembuatan Pupuk Kompos dengan Metode Keranjang Takakura. Pembuatan pupuk kompos ini mampu meningkatkan daya inovasi baru dalam pengolahan sampah rumah tangga, meningkatkan produktifitas dibidang pertanian serta ikut turut dalam mengurangi penumpukan sampah organik.
PEMANFAATAN E-COMMERCE SEBAGAI MEDIA STARTUP BISNIS PADA ANAK-ANAK PANTI ASUHAN RIYADLUL JANNAH DAN PANTI ASUHAN AL MUSTAGHFIRIN SEMARANG
Authors: Aqmala Diana
Published: February 2021

Permasalahan yang dihadapi oleh pengelola Panti Asuhan Riyadlul Jannah dan Panti Asuhan Al Mustaghfirin Semarang terkait dengan kelangsungan hidup anak-anak asuh baik yang masih sekolah maupun yang akan lulus dari tingkat SMA antara lain ketidakmampuan pengelola panti asuhan dalam pembiayaan kelanjutan dari studi anak-anak asuh setelah lulus dan kurangnya keterampilan anak-anak asuh dibidang multimedia menangkap peluang usaha di industri digital. Solusi yang ditawarkan dalam pengabdian kepada masyarakat ini adalah pendidikan secara komprehensif tentang perolehan pendapatan melalui wirausaha secara digital (e-commerce) dan pelatihan serta pendampingan pembuatan akun serta lapak di e-commerce, penentuan produk dan harga, promosi, pengemasan, hingga pendistribusian produk melalui jasa ekspedisi. Target luaran yang ingin dicapai adalah peningkatan kemampuan dan kreativitas dalam berwirausaha secara digital (e-commerce). Metode pengabdian kepada masyarakat ini adalah IbM (IPTEKS bagi Masyarakat) yang dilakukan melalui pendidikan dan arahan secara komunikasi dua arah (duplex), dilanjutkan dengan pelatihan keterampilan dan pendampingan penggunaan e-commerce, hingga simulasi pelaksanaan bisnis secara digital. Hasil yang diperoleh adalah dalam proses peningkatan keterampilan wirausaha melalui pemanfaatan e-commerce sebagai media startup bisnis dilakukan dengan tahapan: (1) Metode IbM, yaitu pelatihan pendaftaran dan pengelolaan profil e-commerce; (2) Mengelola akun e-commerce secara berkala hingga terjadi penjualan; (3) Menjual dan membuat pelaporan bisnis online yang telah dijalankan.
FAKTOR FAKTOR YANG MEMPENGARUHI GANGGUAN FUNGSIONAL PADA LANSIA YANG MENGALAMI OSTEOARTHRITIS KNEE DI WILAYAH KERJA PUSKESMAS GAMPING 1
Authors: Fatmawati Veni
Published: February 2021

Proses penuaan ditandai dengan gejala perubahan fisiologis yang terjadi pada beberapa organ dan sistem. Perubahan yang terjadi menyebabkan perubahan serta penurunan fungsi tubuh untuk melakukan beraktivitas. Seiring dengan peningkatan jumlah lansia terjadi juga peningkatan jumlah dan tingkat kejadian penyakit kronis yang disebabkan oleh penurunan kemampuan fungsi tubuh untuk beradaptasi dengan lingkungan serta kelemahan pada lansia. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui faktor faktor yang mempengaruhi gangguan fungsional pada lansia yang mengalami Osteoarthritis Knee Di Wilayah Kerja Puskesmas Gamping 1. Populasi dalam penelitian ini adalah seluruh lansia yang ada di posyandu wilayah kerja Gamping 1.  Adapun sampel yang akan digunakan dari populasi tersebut adalah lansia yang memenuhi kriteria inklusi yaitu: usia lebih dari 60 tahun,  mengeluh nyeri lutut dan  bersedia mengikuti program penelitian (menandatangani informed concent). Rancangan penelitian yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah penelitian survey analitik. Alat yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah formulir WOMAC yang terdiri dari 24 pertanyaan.Hasil; faktor faktor yang mempengaruhi lansia usia 60-70 tahun (38.6%), jenis kelamin yaitu perempuan(89.8%), IMT (obesitas 53.4%), pekerjaan pensiunan (67,0%) dan riwayat trauma (62.5%). kesimpulan: bahwa faktor faktor yang mempengaruhi gangguan fungsional pada lansia yang mengalami osteoarthritis knee  di wilayah kerja puskesmas gamping 1 yaitu usia, jenis kelamin, IMT, pekerjaan dan riwayat trauma.
PENCEGAHAN DAN PENANGANAN CEDERA OLAHRAGA PADA SISWA SEKOLAH MENENGAH KEJURUAN NEGERI 10 CAWANG
Authors: Manik James Wilson Hasoloan , Bisa Maksimus , Rahmansyah Beriman
Published: February 2021

Cedera olahraga apabila tidak ditangani dengan cepat dan benar dapat mengakibatkan gangguan atau keterbatasan fisik, baik dalam melakukan aktifitas hidup sehari - hari maupun melakukan aktivitas olahraga yang bersangkutan. Penelitian ini dilakukan bersamaan memberikan dengan sosialisasi kepada siswa SMKN 10 cawang tentang pencegahan dan penanganan cidera Olahraga. Dalam pelaksanaan penyuluhan siswa diajarkan bagaimana pencegahan serta penanganan cidera olahraga dengan mempraktekkan langsung. Data hasil skor kuesioner yang diambil sebelum diberikan penyuluhan menunjukan bahwa tingkat pengetahuan tentang pencegahan dan penanganan cedera olahraga lebih tinggi pada siswa yang tidak pernah mengalami cedera olahraga. Booklet tentang pencegahan dan penanganan cidera olahraga juga diberikan kepada siswa dan guru sebagai buku pegangan/ panduan dalam pencegahan dan penanganan cedera olahraga. Dari pengolahan data evaluasi kuesioner dengan menganalisa rerata hasil kuesioner sebelum penyuluhan dan sesudah penyuluhan terdapat peningkatan nilai rerata setelah siswa SMKN 10 mendapatkan penyuluhan.
Етнополітика в Україні у 1917-1921 рр.: методологічні аспекти та історичні дискурси
Authors: Ладний Юрій
Published: February 2021

Публікація присвячена методологічним проблемам та історичним дискурсам дослідження етнонаціональної політики в Україні періоду Української національної революції 1917-1921 рр. Автором наголошується на актуальності та значущості проблеми, яка у сучасній українській історіографії не одержала комплексного компаративного аналізу. В статті наголошується на методах дослідження означеної проблеми, які носять міждисциплінарний характер і ґрунтуються на важливих пізнавальних принципах: науковості, історизму та об’єктивності. Застосування різноманітних загальних і спеціальних методів дозволило автору визначити траєкторію наукового пошуку для реальної реконструкції історичних подій.
Assistive Technologies: Saviour of Mathematics in Higher Education
Authors: Reddy Pritika , Reddy Emmenual , Chand Vishal , Paea Sione , Prasad Avinesh
Published: February 2021

The pervasion and inclusion of new technologies into teaching and learning processes are continuously changing the higher education landscape. Selected and specific technologies termed as “assistive technologies” are being used as key tools for enabling students to access education and actively and independently participate in the education process, improving learning and supporting inclusive education. This paper presents students’ perception of the use of various assistive technologies such as mobile learning, tablet learning, lecture capture, gamification, and online intelligent systems that have been developed for learning and student support at a higher education institute. There is also a broad discussion on how these can be adopted and adapted in mathematics learning in higher education. It is well documented that students have low-esteem toward or while doing the subject and have math phobia, particularly in higher education. An online questionnaire on the students’ perception of using assistive technologies was deployed to the mathematics students. The results show that assistive technologies are indeed a saviour of mathematics with a significantly positive attitude garnered toward using them for learning mathematics.
Analytical Characterization of 3-MeO-PCP and 3-MMC in Seized Products and Biosamples: The Role of LC-HRAM-Orbitrap-MS and Solid Deposition GC-FTIR
Authors: Frison Giampietro , Zancanaro Flavio , Frasson Samuela , Quadretti Laura , Agnati Michele , Vlassich Francesca , Gagliardi Giuseppe , Salerno Tania Maria Grazia , Donato Paola , Mondello Luigi
Published: February 2021

Among the phencyclidine (PCP) and synthetic cathinone analogs present on the street market, 3-methoxyphencyclidine (3-MeO-PCP) is one of the most popular dissociative hallucinogen drugs, while 3-methylmethcathinone (3-MMC) is a commonly encountered psychostimulant. Numerous 3-MeO-PCP- and 3-MMC-related intoxication cases have been reported worldwide. Identification of the positional isomers of MeO-PCP and MMC families are particularly challenging for clinical and forensic laboratories; this is mostly due to their difficult chromatographic separation (particularly when using liquid chromatography–LC) and similar mass spectrometric behaviors. 3-MeO-PCP and 3-MMC were identified in two powders, detained by two subjects and seized by the police, by different analytical techniques, including liquid chromatography-high-resolution accurate-mass Orbitrap mass spectrometry (LC-HRAM-Orbitrap-MS), and solid deposition gas chromatography-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (sd-GC-FTIR). LC-HRAM-Orbitrap-MS allowed us to assign the elemental formulae C18H27NO (MeO-PCP) and C11H15NO (MMC) through accurate mass measurement of the two MH+ ions, and the comparison of experimental and calculated MH+ isotopic patterns. However, MH+ collision-induced product ions spectra were not conclusive in discriminating between the positional isomers [(3-MeO-PCP vs. 4-MeO-PCP) and (3-MMC vs. 4-MMC and 2-MMC)]. Likewise, sd-GC-FTIR easily allowed us to differentiate between the MeO-PCP and MMC positional isomers unambiguously, confirming the presence of 3-MeO-PCP and 3-MMC, due to the high-quality match factor of the experimental FTIR spectra against the target FTIR spectra of MeO-PCP and MMC isomers in a dedicated library. 3-MeO-PCP (in contrast to 3-MMC) was also detected in blood and urine samples of both subjects and analyzed in the context of routine forensic casework by LC-HRAM-Orbitrap-MS following a simple deproteinization step. In addition, this untargeted approach allowed us to detect dozens of phase I and phase II 3-MeO-PCP metabolites in all biological specimens. Analysis of the extracted samples by sd-GC-FTIR revealed the presence of 3-MeO-PCP, thus confirming the intake of such specific methoxy-PCP isomer in both cases. These results highlight the effectiveness of LC-HRAM-Orbitrap-MS and sd-GC-FTIR data in attaining full structural characterization of the psychoactive drugs, even in absence of reference standards, in both non-biological and biological specimens.
Application of a Highly Selective Cathepsin S Two-step Activity-Based Probe in Multicolor Bio-Orthogonal Correlative Light-Electron Microscopy
Authors: van Dalen Floris J. , Bakkum Thomas , van Leeuwen Tyrza , Groenewold Mirjam , Deu Edgar , Koster Abraham J. , van Kasteren Sander I. , Verdoes Martijn
Published: February 2021

Cathepsin S is a lysosomal cysteine protease highly expressed in immune cells such as dendritic cells, B cells and macrophages. Its functions include extracellular matrix breakdown and cleavage of cell adhesion molecules to facilitate immune cell motility, as well as cleavage of the invariant chain during maturation of major histocompatibility complex II. The identification of these diverse specific functions has brought the challenge of delineating cathepsin S activity with great spatial precision, relative to related enzymes and substrates. Here, the development of a potent and highly selective two-step activity-based probe for cathepsin S and the application in multicolor bio-orthogonal correlative light-electron microscopy is presented. LHVS, which has been reported as a selective inhibitor of cathepsin S with nanomolar potency, formed the basis for our probe design. However, in competitive activity-based protein profiling experiments LHVS showed significant cross-reactivity toward Cat L. Introduction of an azide group in the P2 position expanded the selectivity window for cathepsin S, but rendered the probe undetectable, as demonstrated in bio-orthogonal competitive activity-based protein profiling. Incorporation of an additional azide handle for click chemistry on the solvent-exposed P1 position allowed for selective labeling of cathepsin S. This highlights the influence of click handle positioning on probe efficacy. This probe was utilized in multicolor bio-orthogonal confocal and correlative light-electron microscopy to investigate the localization of cathepsin S activity at an ultrastructural level in bone marrow-derived dendritic cells. The tools developed in this study will aid the characterization of the variety of functions of cathepsin S throughout biology.
High Prevalence of Multidrug-Resistant Clostridioides difficile Following Extensive Use of Antimicrobials in Hospitalized Patients in Kenya
Authors: Mutai Winnie C. , Mureithi Marianne W. , Anzala Omu , Revathi Gunturu , Kullin Brian , Burugu Magdaline , Kyany’a Cecilia , Odoyo Erick , Otieno Peter , Musila Lillian
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Clostridioides difficile is a neglected pathogen in many African countries as it is generally not regarded as one of the major contributors toward the diarrheal disease burden in the continent. However, several studies have suggested that C. difficile infection (CDI) may be underreported in many African settings. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of CDI in hospitalized patients, evaluate antimicrobial exposure, and detect toxin and antimicrobial resistance profiles of the isolated C. difficile strains.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, 333 hospitalized patients with hospital-onset diarrhoea were selected. The stool samples were collected and cultured on cycloserine-cefoxitin egg yolk agar (CCEY). Isolates were presumptively identified by phenotypic characteristics and Gram stain and confirmed by singleplex real-time PCR (qPCR) assays detecting the species-specific tpi gene, toxin A (tcdA) gene, toxin B (tcdB) gene, and the binary toxin (cdtA/cdtB) genes. Confirmed C. difficile isolates were tested against a panel of eight antimicrobials (vancomycin, metronidazole, rifampicin, ciprofloxacin, tetracycline, clindamycin, erythromycin, and ceftriaxone) using E-test strips.

Results

C. difficile was detected in 57 (25%) of diarrheal patients over the age of two, 56 (98.2%) of whom received antimicrobials before the diarrheal episode. Amongst the 71 confirmed isolates, 69 (97.1%) harbored at least one toxin gene. More than half of the toxigenic isolates harbored a truncated tcdA gene. All isolates were sensitive to vancomycin, while three isolates (2.1%) were resistant to metronidazole (MIC >32 mg/L). High levels of resistance were observed to rifampicin (65/71, 91.5%), erythromycin (63/71, 88.7%), ciprofloxacin (59/71, 83.1%), clindamycin (57/71, 80.3%), and ceftriaxone (36/71, 50.7.8%). Among the resistant isolates, 61 (85.9%) were multidrug-resistant.

Conclusion

Multidrug-resistant C. difficile strains were a significant cause of healthcare facility-onset C. difficile infections in patients with prior antimicrobial exposure in this Kenyan hospital.
Overcoming Technological Barriers to Instruction: Situating Gen Z Students as Reverse Mentors
Authors: Frey T. Kody
Published: February 2021

In response to a changing higher education landscape, this essay presents an argument for utilizing reverse mentoring to solve technological problems in the academy. Specifically, the essay argues that 1) Gen Z students are uniquely positioned to capitalize on reverse mentoring programs and 2) instructional communication is an important framework for future reverse mentoring research.
Palliative Care for People Living With Heart Disease—Does Sex Make a Difference?
Authors: Sobanski Piotr Z. , Krajnik Malgorzata , Goodlin Sarah J.
Published: February 2021

The distribution of individual heart disease differs among women and men and, parallel to this, among particular age groups. Women are usually affected by cardiovascular disease at an older age than men, and as the prevalence of comorbidities (like diabetes or chronic pain syndromes) grows with age, women suffer from a higher number of symptoms (such as pain and breathlessness) than men. Women live longer, and after a husband or partner's death, they suffer from a stronger sense of loneliness, are more dependent on institutionalized care and have more unaddressed needs than men. Heart failure (HF) is a common end-stage pathway of many cardiovascular diseases and causes substantial symptom burden and suffering despite optimal cardiologic treatment. Modern, personalized medicine makes every effort, including close cooperation between disciplines, to alleviate them as efficiently as possible. Palliative Care (PC) interventions include symptom management, psychosocial and spiritual support. In complex situations they are provided by a specialized multiprofessional team, but usually the application of PC principles by the healthcare team responsible for the person is sufficient. PC should be involved in usual care to improve the quality of life of patients and their relatives as soon as appropriate needs emerge. Even at less advanced stages of disease, PC is an additional layer of support added to disease modifying management, not only at the end-of-life. The relatively scarce data suggest sex-specific differences in symptom pathophysiology, distribution and the requisite management needed for their successful alleviation. This paper summarizes the sex-related differences in PC needs and in the wide range of interventions (from medical treatment to spiritual support) that can be considered to optimally address them.
Analysis of the Positive Arctic Oscillation Index Event and Its Influence in the Winter and Spring of 2019/2020
Authors: Zhang Jie , Sheng Zheng , Ma Yantong , He Yang , Zuo Xinjie , He Mingyuan
Published: February 2021

There were continuous positive Arctic Oscillation index (AOI) and large-scale weather and climate anomalies in the Northern Hemisphere in the winter and spring of 2019/2020, and the relationship between these anomalies is an important issue for subseasonal to seasonal (S2S) predictability. This study shows that an AOI event with splitting characteristics occurred in the Northern Hemisphere and that there was a gap between the periods in event, which has not been observed in any of the 12 previous positive AOI events. The 3 stages of upward propagating planetary wave (UPPW) variation caused the gap between the periods. First, in early November, the westerly flow from the troposphere to the stratosphere weakened, resulting in persistent weak UPPWs that allowed a strong polar vortex to form. Then, the two strong UPPWs in January and early February caused the original westerlies to decelerate and induced warming in the lower stratosphere. However, the UPPWs caused only moderate changes in the geopotential height and temperature due to the strong polar vortex that had formed in the previous stage. This moderate AOI decline resulted in the conditions that divided the positive event into two periods. Finally, the low-level westerlies became stronger and strengthened the UPPWs into the stable stratosphere, which ended the second positive AOI period in late March. The role of zonal circulation anomalies (ZCA) in the upper stratosphere as metrics of and intermediates in UPPW-AO interactions is revealed in this study. The typical ZCA development mode was identified by statistical analysis and a composite treatment based on eight historical positive AOI events. In this mode, when strong UPPWs occur and lead to the consequent propagation of the ZCA from the stratosphere to the troposphere, the geopotential height field in the lower troposphere changes away from a typical AO mode; eventually, the AOI becomes abnormal. The temperature anomaly and ZCA produced in the two positive AOI periods during the winter and spring of 2019/2020 led to increasing precipitation in the eastern polar region, northern Asia, and areas along 60°N latitude.
Optimization of the Yaw Control Error of Wind Turbine
Authors: Liu Yan , Liu Shu , Zhang Lihong , Cao Fuyi , Wang Liming
Published: February 2021

Yaw system is an important part of wind turbine control system, yaw error is an important performance index of wind turbine, which has great influence on power generation. The wind utilization and the output of the power generation have been determined by the yaw error. In order to make the wind turbine better aligned toward the wind direction, reduce the yaw error, and increase the power generated by the unit, the angle errors of yaw control of wind turbine have been analyzed, in this paper, and the method of wind test, the strategy of yaw control have been studied respectively. Based on the results of the study, the method of wind test, the restart control strategy of yaw system and the performance of control strategy of yaw system have been optimized in this paper. In this way, the three important links are optimized, it will effectively reduce the yaw error as well as significantly improve the wind turbine generating electricity.
RNA Based Approaches to Profile Oncogenic Pathways From Low Quantity Samples to Drive Precision Oncology Strategies
Authors: van de Stolpe Anja , Verhaegh Wim , Blay Jean-Yves , Ma Cynthia X. , Pauwels Patrick , Pegram Mark , Prenen Hans , De Ruysscher Dirk , Saba Nabil F. , Slovin Susan F. , Willard-Gallo Karen , Husain Hatim
Published: February 2021

Precision treatment of cancer requires knowledge on active tumor driving signal transduction pathways to select the optimal effective targeted treatment. Currently only a subset of patients derive clinical benefit from mutation based targeted treatment, due to intrinsic and acquired drug resistance mechanisms. Phenotypic assays to identify the tumor driving pathway based on protein analysis are difficult to multiplex on routine pathology samples. In contrast, the transcriptome contains information on signaling pathway activity and can complement genomic analyses. Here we present the validation and clinical application of a new knowledge-based mRNA-based diagnostic assay platform (OncoSignal) for measuring activity of relevant signaling pathways simultaneously and quantitatively with high resolution in tissue samples and circulating tumor cells, specifically with very small specimen quantities. The approach uses mRNA levels of a pathway’s direct target genes, selected based on literature for multiple proof points, and used as evidence that a pathway is functionally activated. Using these validated target genes, a Bayesian network model has been built and calibrated on mRNA measurements of samples with known pathway status, which is used next to calculate a pathway activity score on individual test samples. Translation to RT-qPCR assays enables broad clinical diagnostic applications, including small analytes. A large number of cancer samples have been analyzed across a variety of cancer histologies and benchmarked across normal controls. Assays have been used to characterize cell types in the cancer cell microenvironment, including immune cells in which activated and immunotolerant states can be distinguished. Results support the expectation that the assays provide information on cancer driving signaling pathways which is difficult to derive from next generation DNA sequencing analysis. Current clinical oncology applications have been complementary to genomic mutation analysis to improve precision medicine: (1) prediction of response and resistance to various therapies, especially targeted therapy and immunotherapy; (2) assessment and monitoring of therapy efficacy; (3) prediction of invasive cancer cell behavior and prognosis; (4) measurement of circulating tumor cells. Preclinical oncology applications lie in a better understanding of cancer behavior across cancer types, and in development of a pathophysiology-based cancer classification for development of novel therapies and precision medicine.
Evaluating Accuracy of DNA Pool Construction Based on White Blood Cell Counts
Authors: Abrams Amy N. , McDaneld Tara G. , Keele John W. , Chitko-McKown Carol G. , Kuehn Larry A. , Gonda Michael G.
Published: February 2021

Pooling individual samples prior to DNA extraction can mitigate the cost of DNA extraction and genotyping; however, these methods need to accurately generate equal representation of individuals within pools. The objective of this study was to determine accuracy of pool construction of blood samples based on white blood cell counts compared to two common DNA quantification methods. Fifty individual bovine blood samples were collected, and then pooled with all individuals represented in each pool. Pools were constructed with the target of equal representation of each individual animal based on number of white blood cells, spectrophotometric readings, spectrofluorometric readings, and whole blood volume with 9 pools per method and a total of 36 pools. Pools and individual samples that comprised the pools were genotyped using a commercially available genotyping array. ASReml was used to estimate variance components for individual animal contribution to pools. The correlation between animal contributions between two pools was estimated using bivariate analysis with starting values set to the result of a univariate analysis. Adonis test on distance matrix from the animal correlation showed clustering with method, and higher correlations between methods than within (P< 1 × 10–6). White blood cell count was predictive of sample representation when compared to pooling based on DNA concentration. Therefore, constructing pools using white blood cell counts prior to DNA extraction may reduce cost associated with DNA extraction and genotyping and improve representation of individuals in a pool.
Rituximab Induces Complete Remission of Proteinuria in a Patient With Minimal Change Disease and No Detectable B Cells
Authors: Webendörfer Maximilian , Reinhard Linda , Stahl Rolf A. K. , Wiech Thorsten , Mittrücker Hans-Willi , Harendza Sigrid , Hoxha Elion
Published: February 2021

Minimal change disease (MCD) is a common cause of nephrotic syndrome. Treatment with steroids is usually effective, but frequent relapses are therapeutic challenges. The anti-CD20 antibody rituximab has shown promising results for treatment of steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome. Since predictive biomarkers for treatment efficacy and the accurate rituximab dosage for effective induction of remission are unknown, measurement of CD19+ B cells in blood is often used as marker of successful B cell depletion and treatment efficacy. A male patient with relapsing MCD was successfully treated with rituximab, but developed relapse of proteinuria 1 year later, although no B cells were detectable in his blood. B and T cell populations in the patient’s blood were analyzed before and after treatment with rituximab using FACS analysis. Rituximab binding to B and T cells were measured using Alexa Fluor 647 conjugated rituximab. We identified a population of CD20+ CD19− cells in the patient’s blood, which consisted mostly of CD20+ CD3+ T cells. Despite the absence of B cells in the blood, the patient was again treated with rituximab. He developed complete remission of proteinuria and depletion of CD20+ T cells. In a control patient with relapsing MCD initial treatment with rituximab led to depletion of both CD20+ B and T cells. Rituximab induces remission of proteinuria in patients with MCD even if circulating B cells are absent. CD20+ T cells may play a role in the pathogenesis of MCD and might be a promising treatment target in patients with MCD.
IL-15/IL-15Rα Heterodimeric Complex as Cancer Immunotherapy in Murine Breast Cancer Models
Authors: Guo Siqi , Smeltz Ronald B. , Nanajian Anthony , Heller Richard
Published: February 2021

Interleukin 15 (IL-15) has been evaluated as a potential treatment for solid tumors in clinical trials, but the effectiveness of systemic IL-15 administration as a monotherapy has not been realized. IL-15 receptor alpha (IL-15Rα) can stabilize IL-15 and enhance its bioactivity. The goal of this study was to examine the activity of IL-15/IL-15Rα complex (IL-15cx) to CD8+ T cells and evaluate its potential efficacy in murine breast cancer models. The antitumor efficacy was studied in mouse mammary carcinoma models (Her2/neu transgenic and 4T1-luc mammary cancers) treated with systemic recombinant protein with/without the depletion of myeloid-derived suppressor cells or intra-tumoral gene electrotransfer (GET). IL-15cx shows superior in vivo bioactivity to expand CD8 T cells in comparison to an equimolar single chain IL-15. T-bet is partially involved in CD8 T cell expansion ex vivo and in vivo due to IL-15 or IL-15cx. Intraperitoneal administration of IL-15cx results in a moderate inhibition of breast cancer growth that is associated with an increase in the frequency of cytotoxic CD8 T cells and the improvement of their function. The depletion of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) has no impact on mouse breast cancer growth. IL-15cx treatment diminishes MDSCs in murine tumors. However, it also antagonizes the effects of anti-Gr-1 depleting antibodies. Intratumoral GET with plasmid IL-15/IL-15Rα leads to a long-term survival benefit in 4T1 mammary carcinoma model. An early increase of local cytotoxic cells correlates with GET treatment and an increase of long-term memory T cells results from animals with complete tumor regression. Systemic and local administration of IL-15cx shows two distinct therapeutic responses, a moderate tumor growth inhibition or heterogeneous tumor regressions with survival improvement. Further studies are warranted to improve the efficacy of IL-15cx as an immunotherapy for breast cancer.
Multiscale Modeling of SiCf/SiC Nuclear Fuel Cladding Based on FE-Simulation of Braiding Process
Authors: Feng Yajie , Wang Jun , Shang Nianwei , Zhao Gang , Zhang Chao , Tang Jianbo , Xin Shiqing , Hornig Andreas , Gude Maik , Huang Qing , Jian Xigao , Xu Jian
Published: February 2021

A generalized multiscale (micro-macro) finite element (FE) model for SiC-fiber reinforced SiC-matrix ceramic (SiCf/SiC) nuclear fuel claddings is established. In the macro level, the solid mesh of braided preform, which can be tailored by machine settings (braid angle, yarn width, and so on), is generated based on the braiding process simulation using the dynamic FE-solver, hiring the contact constraints. The matrix mesh and the yarn mesh are integrated by the embedded region constraint, with which the meshing difficulties can be avoided. In the micro-UD model, the progressive damage of the ceramic matrix is modeled using the phase field method (PFM) and the fracture is captured by Mohr–Coulombs criterion, which are stable and efficient in the description of the brittle crack initiation, coalition, and branching. Based on this multiscale model, the mechanical behavior of the braided SiCf/SiC nuclear fuel cladding tube is studied in detail. The superiorities over the homogenized tube model are demonstrated, too.
New Insights Into Potential Benefits of Bioactive Compounds of Bee Products on COVID-19: A Review and Assessment of Recent Research
Authors: Elmahallawy Ehab Kotb , Mohamed Yasser , Abdo Walied , El-Gohary Fatma A. , Ahmed Awad Ali Shaimaa , Yanai Tokuma
Published: February 2021

The recent emergence of COVID‐19 represents one of the biggest challenges facing the world today. Despite the recent attempts to understand the epidemiological pattern and pathogenesis of the disease, detailed data about the physiology and pathology of the disease is still out of reach. Moreover, the lack of a widespread vaccine prompts an urgent call for developing a proper intervention strategy against the virus. Importantly, identification of novel molecules that target replication of the virus represents one of the promising strategies for the control this pandemic crisis. Among others, honey bee products contain numerous bioactive compounds such as propolis and several phenolic compounds that possess a wide range of therapeutic properties for combating various pathological disorders and infectious agents. The intention of the present review is to highlight the stages of SARS-CoV-2 lifecycle, the molecular mechanisms explaining the health benefits of honey bee products on COVID‐19 physiology and pathology and the possible limitations. Further future research is suggested to explore more about bee natural bioactive compounds as potential candidates against SARS-CoV-2.
Serum Level of Transferrin Unique Peptide Is Decreased in Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Hu Xizheng , Li Yinghui , Cheng Peng , Wu Anhua , Li Guangyu
Published: February 2021

Objectives: Free irons are transported into brain tissues by transferrin and play an important role in neuronal/glial cell damage. Lower serum levels of transferrin have been found in patients with ischemic stroke, compared with healthy subjects. In present study, we investigated whether transferrin unique peptide (TF-UP) could be employed as a serum biomarker for brain tissue damage in acute ischemic stroke.

Methods: The venous blood samples of 94 ischemic stroke patients and 35 brain tumor-stroke mimics (BT-SM) patients were collected within the first 72 h (Median time 23.25, Interquartile range 60.75) of acute onset in the emergency room. Total TF-UP and total albumin unique peptide (Alb-UP) were identified with liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) and quantified by multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) method using labeled reference peptide (LRP) for further analysis.

Results: Median ratio of total TF-UP/LRP was 0.85 (Interquartile range, 0.21) in the brain tumor-stroke mimics (BT-SM) group, and 0.45 (0.14) in the ischemic stroke group; median Alb-UP/LRP ratio was 0.66 (0.16) in the BT-SM group, and 0.55 (0.20) in the ischemic stroke group. The overall trend from low to high levels was statistically significant for TF-UP/LRP (P < 0.0001), but not for Alb-UP/LRP (P = 0.1667). According to the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, the area under the curve (AUC) was 0.9565 and the optimal cutoff value of serum TF-UP was 0.6317, which yielded a sensitivity of 91.49% and a specificity of 88.57%. The odds ratio (95% confidence intervals) of serum TF-UP/LRP was 83.31 (23.43, 296.22, P < 0.0001).

Conclusions: Serum TF-UP/LRP level is decreased in patients with acute ischemic stroke in comparison with brain tumor, and it may serve as a serum biomarker for the neuronal/glial cell damage in cerebral infarction.