bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Local Government Leadership in Sanitation and Hygiene: Experiences and Learnings from West Africa
Authors: Melloni Gian
Published: February 2022

Between July and October 2021, the Sanitation Learning Hub worked with government representatives and development partners to develop, share, and cross-analyse case studies looking at local system and government strengthening in four local government areas across West Africa: Benin (N’Dali commune), Ghana (Yendi municipal district), Guinea (Molota commune), and Nigeria (Logo LGA). The initiative focused on examples of local leadership in sanitation and hygiene (S&H), with case studies developed in collaboration with development partners (Helvetas in Benin, UNICEF in Ghana and Guinea, United Purpose in Nigeria) and the local governments they partner with. The goal was to cross-analyse examples of local government leadership in S&H, looking at what led to the prioritisation of S&H, and identifying commonalities and transferable knowledge through a participatory cross-learning process. The case studies identified positive change occurred in local government leadership in S&H, and analysed the contributions to change, via document review, key informant interviews and focus group discussions. This learning brief shares the learnings and recommendations that emerged from the case studies and through the three participatory workshops that followed.
Wearable Sensor Based Human Activity Recognition with Transformer
Authors: Dirgová Luptáková Iveta , Kubovčík Martin , Pospíchal Jiří
Published: February 2022

This paper describes the successful application of the Transformer model used in the natural language processing and vision tasks as a means of processing the time series of signals from gyroscope and accelerometer sensors for the classification of human activities. The Transformer model is based on deep neural networks with many layers which can generalize well on signals. All measured signals come from a smartphone placed in a waist bag. Activity prediction is sequence-to-sequence, each time step of the signal is assigned a designation of the performed activity. Emphasis is placed on attention mechanisms, which express individual dependencies between signal values within a time series. In comparison with another recent result, the recognition precision was improved from 89.67 percent to 99.2 percent. The transformer model should in the future be included among the top options in machine learning methods for human activity recognition.
Estimating the Fractal Dimensions of Vascular Networks and Other Branching Structures: Some Words of Caution
Authors: Cheeseman Alison K. , Vrscay Edward R.
Published: February 2022

Branching patterns are ubiquitous in nature, consequently over the years many researchers have tried to characterize the complexity of their structures. Due to their hierarchical nature and resemblance to fractal trees, they are often thought to have fractal properties, however their non-homogeneity (i.e., lack of strict self-similarity) is often ignored. In this paper we review and examine the use of the box-counting and sandbox methods to estimate the fractal dimensions of branching structures. We highlight the fact that these methods rely on an assumption of self-similarity that is not present in branching structures due to their non-homogeneous nature. Looking at the local slopes of the log-log plots used by these methods reveals the problems caused by the non-homogeneity. Finally, we examine the role of the canopies (endpoints or limit points) of branching structures in the estimation of their fractal dimensions.
Conversion of the Sagittal Functional Safe Zone to the Coronal Plane Using a Mathematical Algorithm
Authors: Tang Hao , Zhao Yongqiang , Wang Siyuan , Ma Zhuyi , Li Ya , Shi Hongwei , Zhou Yixin
Published: February 2022

Background:

Ante-inclination (AI) of the cup is a key component of the combined sagittal index (CSI) for predicting joint stability after total hip arthroplasty (THA). We aimed to (1) validate a mathematical algorithm relating AI to radiographic anteversion (RA), radiographic inclination (RI), and pelvic tilt (PT); (2) convert the AI criterion of the CSI into the coronal functional safe zone (CFSZ) and explore the influences of standing-to-sitting pelvic motion (PM) and pelvic incidence (PI) on the CFSZ; and (3) attempt to locate a universal cup orientation that always fulfills the AI criterion of the CSI for all patients.

Methods:

In the first phase, a phantom pelvis was designed to simulate a range of PT values, and an acetabular cup was implanted with different RA, RI, and PT settings using a robot-assisted technique and scanned using the EOS imaging system. The second phase involved patient radiographs. We enrolled 100 patients who underwent robot-assisted THA from April 2019 to December 2019, and EOS images before THA and at the 12-month follow-up were recorded. The AI was measured on a lateral radiograph; this angle was used as the reference and compared with the calculated AI to assess the accuracy of the algorithm. Linear regression was conducted to explore the relationship between the size of the CFSZ and the values of PM and PI. We calculated the intersection of the CFSZs of the patients to find a universal cup orientation (RA and RI) for the CSI.

Results:

The algorithm was accurate according to both the phantom study and patient radiographs using PT at the time of follow-up, with mean absolute errors (MAEs) of 1.5° (width of 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.2°) and 2.8° (width of 95% CI, 3.0°), respectively. However, the preoperatively predicted AI had an MAE of 9.0° (width of 95% CI, 10.5°). In patient subgroups with lower PM or PI, the sizes of the CFSZ and of its intersection with the Lewinnek safe zone were significantly smaller (p < 0.017). No universal cup orientation existed to fulfill the CSI criteria for all patients or for any of the PM or PI subgroups.

Conclusions:

The target orientation for the cup in THA should be individualized. Our validated algorithm may serve as a quantitative tool for the patient-specific optimization of cup AI on the basis of the functional safe zone.

Clinical Relevance:

The Lewinnek safe zone fails because it cannot predict the functional orientation of the cup. The concept of a universal safe zone of cup orientation should be abandoned and replaced by a patient-specific surgical target.
Food supplements consumption and the role of pharmacies: a north-eastern Italy observational study
Authors: Brunelli Laura , Arnoldo Luca , Mazzilis Giada , D'Angelo Matteo , Colautti Laura , Cojutti Pier Giorgio , Parpinel Maria
Published: February 2022

Background & Aims. The inappropriate use of food supplements can potentially cause harms to patients. The role played by pharmacists in advising citizens and purchasing these products, can contribute in improving their safer use but the knowledge, attitudes and practice of these professionals on this topic is still largely unknown. Methods. Pharmacists of the Italian Region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia (FVG) were surveyed through a 47-items online questionnaire from Sept 2020 to Feb 2021. Questions investigated on knowledge (20 items), attitudes and practice (27 items). Data about sex, age, years of experience, degree, role within pharmacy (owner, employee) were also collected. Results. 232 questionnaires were collected, most of which (71%) from women. The majority of responders had a Pharmacy degree (77%) and were employees within pharmacies (66%) where they have been working for at least 10 years (61%). Pharmacists’ knowledge resulted to be poor with less than half participants scoring above the median value of 11; knowledge was higher among more experienced pharmacists. Larger gaps identified included the possible carcinogenicity of multivitamin’s abuse and the undesired presence of non-labeled components in food supplements. Responders with less working experience felt more unprepared about vitamin’s dosage and groups of patients with particular diseases (p<0.05). Employees reported the attitude of purchasing food supplements under patient direct request more frequently than owners (p<0.05). Conclusions. Pharmacists’ knowledge level on food supplements is unsatisfactory, and the effect of this lack on patient safety is concerning. Young professionals in particular would benefit further education the most on this specific public health topic.
Combination of Advanced Nano-Fenton Process and Sonication for Destruction of Diclofenac: Variables Optimization using Response Surface Method
Authors: Yaghmaeian Kamyar , Yousefi Nader , Bagheri Amin , Mahvi Amir Hossein , Nabizadeh Ramin , Dehghani Mohammad Hadi , Fekri Rana , Akbari-adergani Behrouz
Published: February 2022

Diclofenac (DCF) as a non-steroidal pharmaceutical has been detected in aquatic samples more than other compounds due to its high consumption and limited biodegradability. In this study, ultrasound waves were applied along with an advanced Nano-Fenton process (US/ANF) to remove DCF, and subsequently, the synergistic effect was determined. Before that, the efficiency of the US and ANF processes was separately studied. The central composite design was used as one of the most applicable responses surface method techniques to determine the main and interactive effect of the factors influencing DCF removal efficiency in US/ANF. The mean DCF removal efficiency under different operational conditions and at the time of 1-10 min was obtained to be about 4%, 83%, and 95% for the US, ANF, and US/ANF, respectively. Quadratic regression equations for two frequencies of US were developed using multiple regression analysis involving main, quadratic, and interaction effects. The synergy index values showed a slight synergistic effect for US/ANF (1.1). Although the synergistic effect of US/ANF is not very remarkable, it can be considered as a quick and efficient process for the removal of DCF from wastewater with a significant amount of mineralization.
Synthesis, in-vitro Biological Evaluation, and Molecular Docking Study of Novel spiro-β-lactam-isatin Hybrids
Authors: jarrahpour Aliasghar , Jowkar Zahra , Haghighijoo Zahra , Heiran Roghayeh , Rad Javad Ameri , Sinou Véronique , Latour Christine , Brunel Jean michel , Özdemirf Namık
Published: February 2022

In our ongoing search for bioactive compounds, a class of novel spiro-β-lactam isatin hybrids have been obtained by [2+2] cycloaddition reaction from 1-allyl-3-(arylimino)indolin-2-one and ketenes from various aryloxy acetic acids. The formation of all cycloadducts were confirmed by FTIR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and Mass spectra as well as elemental analyses. The new β-lactams were evaluated for their biological activities. The compounds 4a-g showed moderate to good activity against P. falciparum K1 strain and showed moderate to good activity. Among them, 4b and 4e demonstrated the best results with IC50 of 5.04 and 7.18, respectively. The molecular docking simulation of 4b with P. falciparum dihydrofolate reductase enzyme (PfDHFR) binding site shown several intermolecular interactions that would be consider to design the future analogs of antimalarial agents. Moreover, all the synthesized β-lactams were evaluated against some gram positive and gram negative bacteria including E. coli ATCC 28922, P. aeruginosa ATCC 27853 and S. aureus ATCC 25923 at the MIC level of 200 µg/mL and did not possess significant activity.
An Equivalence Test Between Features Lists, Based On The Sorensen - Dice Index And The Joint Frequencies of GO Node Enrichment
Authors: Flores Pablo , Salicru Miquel , Sanchez-Pla Alexandre , Ocaña Jordi
Published: February 2022

Background: In integrative bioinformatic analyses, it is of great interest to stablish the equivalence between gene or (more in general) feature lists, up to a given level and in terms of their annotations in the Gene Ontology. The aim of this article is to present an equivalence test based on the proportion of GO nodes which are declared as enriched in both lists simultaneously.Results: On the basis of these data, the disimilarity between gene lists is measured by means of the Sorensen – Dice index. We present two flavours of the same test: One of them based on the asymptotic normality of the test statistic and the other based on the bootstrap method.Conclusions: The accuracy of these tests is studied by means of simulation and their possible interest is illustrated by using them over two real datasets: A collection of gene lists related to cancer and a collection of gene lists related to kidney rejection after transplantation.
Slum Dwellers’ Adherence to COVID-19 Guidelines: Application of the COM-B Model to Barriers and Facilitators of Behavioural Change in Uganda’s Urban Slums
Authors: Seruwagi Gloria , Masaba Hilda Namakula , Kyamulabi Agnes , Nzesei Catherine Nakidde , Magumba Daniel , Ssematiko Maria , Abura Francis , Luswata Brian , Lugada Eric
Published: February 2022

Following the WHO’s global pandemic declaration and Uganda’s confirmation of its first COVID-19 case in March 2020, a set of guidelines and directives were given to prevent the spread and mitigate the effects of the novel coronavirus. While initial strict enforcement was ensured and adherence to these preventive guidelines registered, it rapidly declined within a few weeks. This paper uses the ecological systems theory and COM-B model to explore adherence barriers and facilitators. We used data from a mixed methods cross-sectional study conducted in two slums within Kampala, Uganda’s capital city. Study participants were 807 (660=quantitative, 147=qualitative). For data collection we used interviews, focus group discussions, observation and a community survey. Quantitative data was collected using ODK, cleaned, coded in excel and transferred to SPSS for analysis. Qualitative interviews were audio recorded, transcribed, coded and thematically analysed using NVivo12 software. Study findings show high and varied levels of non-adherence with hand washing at 52.7% and disinfection of touch surfaces at 9.9%. Non-adherence was attributed to a number of economic, sociocultural, political and structural reasons. Despite availability of prevention opportunities, weak capacity and low motivation led to largely undesirable behavior which increased the risk to COVID-19 infections among slumdwellers. The COM-B model can be used to better understand critical intervention pathways to increase adherence to policy and adoption of health protection behavior among vulnerable communities. It is possible to institute adherence barriers among slum dwellers through simple policy and programming responses if contextual factors are recognised.
What is the Sustainability of Village Savings and Loans Associations (VSLAs) Amidst of Covid-19? Its Impact on Household Income Level and its Determining Factors-Lessons from Malawi, Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Munthali George N. Chidimbah , Xuelian Wu , Dzimbiri Mastano Nambiro Woleson , Zolo Amon , Mushani John K.B , Banda Lazarus Obed Livingstone
Published: February 2022

Background: Food security, malnutrition and poverty are some of the challenges that most of the sub-Saharan African countries face, with the coming of Covid-19 the sustainability of Village Savings and Loans Association which are formed to counter fight these challenges is questioned. Aim: The aim of this study was to assess factors associated with the Sustainability of VSLAs amidst of Covid-19 and its impacts on households' income levels. Methods: An online cross-sectional design was conducted from November to January 2021, targeting VSLAs members in Mzuzu. A snowball and respondent-driven sampling technique was used to recruit the needful participants using a referral approach. IBM SPSS version 23 was used to perform descriptive statistics, Chi-Square, and binary logistic regression with unstandardized Beta (β), Odds Ratios (OR), and 95% Confidence Interval (CI) being taken into account with P-value set at P-value at 0.1, 0.05 and 0.01 significance levels. Results: Our study finds that household income declined by 54% for those earnings belonged to ˂ MK5,000, as compared to 38% and 15% for medium (MK5,000 ≥ MK10,000) and higher (>MK10,000) income bands respectively. Our study shows that gender (β=0.437, p=0.094), age-group (β=1.317, p=0.000), education (β=2.181, p=0.047), share contributions (β=1.035, p=0.008), and meetings (β=0.572, p=0.021), and occupation (β=-0.453, p=0.106), frequency of meeting (β=-0.507, p=0.049) were positively and negatively statistically significant predictors. Conclusion: Findings of this study shows that households with lower income earnings as one of the indicators of poverty are more affected by the pandemic than their counterparts. We recommend that the policymakers should continue and adopt, if they have not yet, programs that would help to assist low-income households, such as transfer of payments, which have proved to boost the income of the poor in many developing countries.
Targeted Sequencing Analysis Of Mycoplasma Gallisepticum Isolates In Chicken Layer And Breeder Flocks In Thailand.
Authors: Limsatanun Arithat , Pakpinyo Somsak , Limpavithayakul Kriengwich , Prasertsee Teerarat
Published: February 2022

Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) is one of the most economically significant pathogens worldwide. MG affects the respiratory system and cause a poor growth performance in poultry. In some developing countries, the conventional PCR assay are still the widely used technique. In this study, 24 collected Thai MG isolates from the unvaccinated farms during 2002-2020 were characterized by gene-targeted sequencing (GTS), followed by phylogenetic using UPMGA analysis. From the results, 24 Thai MG isolates could be differentiated from vaccine strains including F, ts-11 and 6/85. One of Thai MG isolates showed 99.5-100% genetic similarity to F strain with 4 partial genes analysis. The contamination of F strain from the vaccinated farms could be a possible reason because F strain is the most used vaccine strain in Thailand. However, The GTS analysis using the partial MG genes in this study showed that Thai MG isolates were grouped in different patterns based on individual gene sequences. The phylogenetic of partial mgc2, gapA, pvpA and lp gene sequences could classified Thai MG isolates into 7, 11, 7 and 2 groups, respectively. In conclusion, at least 2 partial MG genes especially partial gapA and mgc2 genes should be determined to differentiate the MG isolates.
Dynamical transition in a nonlinear two-level system driven by a special hyperbolic-secant external field
Authors: Cao Hong , Liu Xi-Jing , Liu Miao
Published: February 2022

We propose a simplification of the exact solution model in a linear system, which creates a transparent passage for dynamical transition. We extend this model to the nonlinear system and show that the transition dynamics will be determined by the nonlinear parameter and an unique parameter of external field. Asnon-linearity increases, Landau-Majorana-Stückelberg-
Zener (LMSZ) interference fringes can be constructive and the up energy level in the adiabatic limit splits into three levels. For fast-sweeping fields, we derive an analytic expression for dynamics transition under stationary phase approximation and show that transition probability will be blocked as the non-linearity is much larger than external field parameter, which agrees with
numerical results.
Tracking of health-related physical fitness in adolescent girls: a 3-year follow- up study
Authors: Kasović Mario , Oreški Ana , Vespalec Tomaš , Jenčíková Kateřina , Štefan Lovro
Published: February 2022

BackgroundEvidence has shown that higher levels of physical fitness in youth have beneficial effects on adult health-related outcomes. However, the tracking of separate physical fitness components during adolescence has been less studied. Since physical fitness often starts to rapidly decline during adolescence, it is necessary to provide information regarding critical time-point for interventions. This study aimed to analyze the extent of tracking of several physical fitness tests. Methods In this longitudinal study, we recruited 240 adolescent girls with recoded data at 2 time-points (15 y and 17 y). Physical fitness included body composition (fat mass), explosive power of lower extremities (standing broad jump), muscle endurance of the trunk (sit-ups in 60 sec), flexibility (sit-and-reach test), muscle endurance of lower extremities (squats in 60 sec), aerobic endurance (the 800 m run test) and speed endurance (the 400 m run test). Tracking coefficients were calculated using generalized estimating equations. Tertiles (high, moderate and low) were calculated for each fitness component. Results The highest tracking coefficients between the two time-points were found for explosive power of lower extremities (β=0.98), followed by flexibility (β=0.89), body composition (β=0.88), speed endurance (β=0.86), aerobic endurance (β=0.75), muscle endurance of lower extremities (β=0.65), and muscle endurance of the trunk (β=0.51). Tertile ratings remained stable across the two time-points.ConclusionsModerate to high tracking of physical fitness in adolescent girls suggests that interventions aiming to increase the level of physical fitness should probably begin in early adolescence.
A story of MiR-199a-5p in small cell lung cancer cisplatin resistance
Authors: Li Hengli
Published: February 2022

Background Multidrug resistance (MDR) in small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is a clinical dilemma in chemotherapy. Autophagy has been found to be involved in the MDR of cancers. We hypothesized that miR-199a-5p regulated cisplatin-resistant SCLC by targeting autophagy. Methods We validated the MDR of H446/EP using CCK-8. We tested the binding of miR-199a-5p to p62 using the Dual-Luciferase assay and validated the association of miR-199a-5p and p62 in SCLC samples. We overexpressed (OE) and knocked down (KD) miR-199a-5p in H446 and H446/EP and determined the expression of miR-199a-5p, autophagy-related proteins, and the formation of autophagolysosomes using QPCR, western blotting, and MDC staining respectively. Results H446/EP was resistant to cisplatin, etoposide, paclitexal, epirubicin, irinotecan, and vinorelbine. Exposure of cisplatin at 5 μg/ml for 24 hours increased LC3II/LC3I, ATG5, p62, and the formation of autophagolysosomes in H446 cells, but not in H446/EP cells. The expression of miR-199a-5p was up-regulated in H446/EP compared to H446. MiR-199a-5p directly targeted the p62 gene. The expression of miR-199a-5p and p62 were correlated in SCLC samples. In H446 and H69PR, the OE of miR-199a-5p increased LC3II/LC3I, p62, and the formation of autophagolysosomes, but not ATG5, while the KD of miR-199a-5p decreased p62, but did not affect LC3II/LC3I, ATG5, and the formation of autophagolysosomes. In H446/EP, the OE of miR-199a-5p decreased p62 only. Conclusions The regulation of p62-mediated autophagy by MiR-199a-5p was a potential mechanism of SCLC cisplatin resistance.
Detection of immune-related cells and genes in the glioma tumor microenvironment from the CGGA database using bioinformatics strategies
Authors: Liu Xudong , Yin JinYue , Liu Zhe , Fan Mengdi , Ma Ying , Zhang Yu , Peng Tao , Zhao Lijun , Fan Jinke , Wang Yafan , Li Rui , Zhao Xue , Cai Jiahuan , Song Xinqiang , Chen Yuxuan , Wang Lei
Published: February 2022

Background: Glioma is one of the most common and aggressive types of primary malignant tumors in the neuroectoderm, with high mortality rates, and recurrence. Immune checkpoint inhibitors have provided new insights in the treatment of tumors. Yet, there are still a lack of effective immune markers and therapeutic targets for glioma immunotherapy.Material and Methods: First, The data of glioma and corresponding clinical characteristics obtain from the CGGA database. Secondly, we calculated the abundance of immune cells for each sample by the CIBERSORT algorithm and then identified immune cells associated with survival by Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. Critical immune genes were identified naturally by differential gene analysis, functional enrichment analysis, protein interaction analysis, and co-expression analysis. Eventually, the TIMER database was used to analyze further the level of immune infiltration of key immune cells.Results: Here, we have discovered macrophages M0 and monocytes, are associated with the survival of glioma, and three immune genes associated with survival were also uncovered, of which BIRC5 is an immune gene-specific to monocytes. The BUB1B and NCAPH are immune genes specific to macrophages M0. Furthermore, three immune genes were positively correlated with the infiltration levels of immune cells such as purity and dendritic cell and had a high response to anti-PD-1 treatment.Conclusions: In conclusion, we have identified macrophages M0 and monocytes, and three specific immune genes that may be of high research value in glioma immunotherapy. Our work may provide new research insight into the diagnosis and prognosis of glioma.
Socio-economic factors associated with the choice of community health workers as contraceptive providers in Rwanda
Authors: Muhoza Dieudonne Ndaruhuye , Ruturwa Daniel Sebikabu , Kabano Ignace Habimana
Published: February 2022

Background: In 2008, Rwanda decided to enhance its community health program in order to further scale up the health system effectiveness. One of the components of the program is the community-based family planning. Between 2010 and 2015, the proportion of women using contraception from the community health workers (CHWs) increased threefold. This study aims at identify the socio-economic factors associated with the choice of CHWs as contraceptive providers in Rwanda in the period 2010-2015. Methods: The study uses a pooled dataset from the 2010 and 2015 Rwanda Demographic and Health Surveys. It is restricted to women in union aged 15-49 years. The dependent variable is the source of modern method used at the time of survey. Independent variables include demographic characteristics, socioeconomic factors, and regional variable. Descriptive statistics and multinomial logistic regression are used to assess the association. Results: The results indicate that the choice of CHWs is negatively associated with socioeconomic factors (education, economic status, residence, etc) and varies with provinces. The propensities of referring to CHWs are significantly higher among women with no or low education (odds ratio [OR]: 3.76 and 3.80), women from poor or middle households (OR: 1.20, 1.27) or among those living in rural areas (OR: 1.04) than among women with high education, residing in rich households or in urban areas. The Northern Province has recorded the highest adhesion to CHWs (OR: 2.47), followed by the Eastern (OR: 1.88) and Southern (OR: 1.69). Conclusions: The community health program gained higher approval and adoption among the lower socioeconomic segments of the population. The combined effects of high contraceptive uptake from CHWs among the poor populations and rural residents and that of their predominant share in the total population enable to assume further decline of fertility in Rwanda.
ACT001 Inhibits TLR4 Signaling by Targeting Co-receptor MD2 and Attenuates Neuropathic Pain
Authors: Zhang Tianshu , Lin Cong , Wu Siru , Li Xiaodong , Peng Yinghua , Wang Xiaohui
Published: February 2022

Background Neuropathic pain is a common and challenging neurological disease which remains poorly managed by currently available therapeutics. Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) expressed on immune cells in the central nervous system (CNS) arises as a novel target for treating neuropathic pain. In this study, we aim to investigate the effect of ACT001 on TLR4 signaling and neuropathic pain. Methods Protein intrinsic fluorescence titration, saturation transfer difference (STD)-NMR, cellular thermal shift assay (CETSA) and in silico simulation were performed to investigate the interaction of ACT001 with TLR4 co-receptor myeloid differentiation protein 2 (MD2). Immunoblotting and qRT-PCR were used to explore the effect of ACT001 on TLR4 signaling axis as well as the downstream cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. The proinflammatory factor nitric oxide (NO) was determined by the 2, 3-diaminonaphthalene-based fluorescent method. The effect of ACT001 on the mechanical paw withdrawal thresholds of rats were measured using the Von Frey test after chronic constriction injury (CCI)-induced allodynia. Immunofluorescence was used to investigate the effect of ACT001 on activation of microglia and astrocyte. Results In vitro protein intrinsic fluorescence titration and STD-NMR showed the direct binding of ACT001 to TLR4 co-receptor MD2. CETSA showed that ACT001 binding affected the MD2 stability, which implies that MD2 is the endogenous target of ACT001. ACT001 docked into the conserved hydrophobic cavity and overlapped with the space of R2', R3 and R2'' chains of Lipid A in MD2, therefore hindering the binding of LPS to MD2. Molecular dynamics simulations showed that ACT001 binding decreased the percentage of hydrophobic area in the buried solvent-accessible surface areas of MD2 and rendered most regions of MD2 to be more flexible, which consistent with experimental data that ACT001 binding decreased MD2 stability. ACT001 retrained the activation of TLR4 signaling axes of NF-κB and MAPKs, therefore blocking LPS-induced TLR4 signaling downstream pro-inflammatory factors NO, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. Furthermore, systemic administration of ACT001 attenuated allodynia induced by peripheral nerve injury and activation of microglia and astrocyte in vivo. Conclusions ACT001 is a novel TLR4 antagonist and could be a potential drug candidate for the treatment of chronic neuropathic pain.
An agent-based model to examine neuroinvasion by SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Bhat Varsha , S Aditi Lakshmi , Muraly Abhinaya , Rao Pranathi , Chatterjee Jhinuk
Published: February 2022

SARS-CoV-2 is known to primarily cause mild to severe respiratory infections as well as chemosensory disturbances such as anosmia. Furthermore, it has been associated with the occurrence of neurological symptoms. In this study probable route of neuroinvasion by SARS-CoV-2 from the olfactory epithelium to the central nervous system was suggested and an agent-based model has been developed using NetLogo 3D. A series of simulations were performed to analyze real-world infection patterns; based on these simulations, it was observed that there is a direct correlation between the age of the patient and the day of neuroinvasion onset.
Diagnosis of Staphylococcus Aureus in Non-treated Blood Using Mercury Immobilized on a Carbon Nanotube Biosensor.
Authors: Ly Suwyoung , Choi KwangJin , Kim Ji Hyun , Lee Kyung
Published: February 2022

BackgroundStaphylococcus aureus bacteria is a ubiquitous Gram-positive microorganism that causes of infections related to the sudden infant death syndromeObjectivesTo identify an effective diagnostic method for Staphylococcus aureus (SA), a voltammetric sensing probe was sought using mercury immobilized on a carbon nanotube sensor (MCN).Study designThe voltammetric MCN conditions were optimized through stripping and cyclic voltammetry. Diagnostic electrolyte was used on non-treated blood sera as an electrolyte solution.ResultsThe optimum cyclic and stripping analytical working range was 0.5-4.0 ml (3×10²~5×10²CFU/0.5mL) SA. The statistic relative standard deviation of 0.1-mL SA was observed to be 0.0078 (n = 5).ConclusionsUsing the optimum parameters, diagnostic application was performed in the direct assay of SA in non-treated human blood and patient sera.
Relativity and View Effects
Authors: Fischli Bernard
Published: February 2022

Relativity has been based on the implicit assumption that it would exclusively describe interactions. Relativistic view effects are included as well, and they act with no force and no energy exchanges. The Ehrenfest paradox is solved. View effects specific to each point of view are the solution. The calculation of the deflection of light by the sun explains in detail why the deflection angle must be almost double the value obtained with Newton’s laws. The compatibility of General Relativity with the new interpretation is discussed. An object has no speed limit due to gravitation but it is limited in speed with electromagnetism. Inertial behavior is examined. The equivalence principle does not introduce gravitation to General Relativity. Relativity impacts the energy formula of electromagnetism using the Lorentz factor which also introduces view effects that are optical illusions with no impact on energy.
Soluble OX40 is significantly increased in the serum of overweight and obese patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Zhu Yan , Hu Jingcheng , Lu Wen , Fu Nannan , Wang Qin , Du Xuan , Shi Bimin
Published: February 2022

Object: Our study mainly aimed to explore the presence of sOX40 in the peripheral serum of overweight and obese patients.Methods: 60 overweight and obese patients admitted to the endocrinology department of the first affiliated hospital of Soochow University were recruited into the study and divided into control group (25 participants) and T2DM group (35particpants) according to the World Health Organization diagnostic criteria. The differences of general statistics, biochemical parameters, islet function and sOX40 were compared among the two groups. The associations between HbA1C and other parameters and the influences of various parameters on the severity of hyperglycemia were analyzed. Results: Serum levels of OX40 was significantly higher in T2DM group compared with control group(p＜0.05). Pearson correlation analysis showed that HbA1c was positively correlated to sOX40 and FBG and negatively correlated to BMI, 2hINS, FCP and 2hCP(P<0.05). Multiple linear regression analysis showed significant positive influences of sOX40 and FBG on hyperglycemia in overweight and obese patients (P<0.05). Conclusion: Hyperglycemia in overweight and obese patients increased with sOX40. Higher sOX40 was the independent risk factors for hyperglycemia in overweight and obese patients.
Factors Affecting Unemployment Duration of the Science and Arts Stream University Graduates in Sri Lanka
Authors: Gunarathne Lakma , Jayasinghe Chathuri L
Published: February 2022

Sri Lanka has a significant youth unemployment problem. In the recent years, a more serious problem is graduate unemployment. Therefore, Sri Lanka needs to develop appropriate policies to decrease the duration of unemployment. In this regard, research is required to determine the factors that affect unemployment duration of graduates in order to provide the policy makers with solid foundations for their decision-making processes. Globally several studies have investigated unemployment duration of graduates. Up to date, no study has been done in Sri Lanka that thoroughly investigates the unemployment duration of graduates in Sri Lanka. Thus, the main aim of this research is to identify the factors that affect the duration of unemployment in the Science and Arts stream graduates in Sri Lanka. A survival analysis was conducted to determine how the considered factors affect the duration of unemployment among the Science stream graduates. Due to the nature of the information gathered in relation to the unemployment duration of the Arts stream graduates, an ordinal logistic regression was applied to identify the significant variables of unemployment duration of the Arts stream graduates among the variables considered. The findings of this study show that the Semi Parametric Cox Proportional model is appropriate to determine the relationship between graduates' time taken to obtain the first job and explanatory variables. According to the analysis, the gender, the type of the degree, the job category (private or government sector jobs) and the results of the GCE Advanced Level General English subject have a significant impact on unemployment duration of Science stream graduates. For the Arts stream graduates, the family income, the professional courses followed by graduates during their academic years at the university and the participation in extra-curricular activities while in the university were found to be significant.
Polypyrrole-based adsorbents for Cr(VI) ions remediation from aqueous solution: a review
Authors: Chigondo Marko , Nyamunda Benias , Maposa Munashe , Chigondo Fidelis
Published: February 2022

Anthropogenic activities are principally responsible for the manifestation of toxic and carcinogenic hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) triggering water pollution that threatens the environment and human health. The World Health Organisation (WHO) restricts Cr(VI) ion concentration to 0.1 and 0.05 mg/L in inland surface water and drinking water, respectively. The available technologies for Cr(VI) ion removal from water were highlighted with an emphasis on the adsorption technology. Furthermore, the characteristics of several polypyrrole-based adsorbents were scrutinized including amino-containing compounds, biosorbents, graphene/graphene oxide, clay materials and many other additives with reported effective Cr(VI) ion uptake. This efficiency in Cr(VI) ions adsorption is attributed to enhanced redox properties, increased number of functional groups as well as the synergistic behaviour of the materials making up the composites. The Langmuir isotherm best described the adsorption processes with maximum adsorption capacities ranging from 3.40–961.50 mg/g. The regeneration of Cr(VI) ion-laden adsorbents was studied. Ion exchange, electrostatic attractions, complexation, chelation reactions with protonated sites and reduction were the mechanisms of adsorption. Nevertheless, there are limited details on comprehensive adsorbent regeneration studies to prolong robustness in adsorption–desorption cycles and utilization of the Cr(VI) ion-laden adsorbent in other areas of research to limit the threat of secondary pollution.
PARTICIPAÇÃO SOCIAL E EFETIVAÇÃO DE AÇÕES PÚBLICAS
Authors: Dias Thiago Ferreira , Paiva Juarez Azevedo de
Published: February 2022

Este artigo tem como objetivo analisar os resultados da gestão da governança territorial a partir da Ação de Apoio a Projetos de Infraestrutura e Serviços em Territórios Rurais (PROINF),operacionalizada pela Secretaria de Desenvolvimento Territorial do Ministério do Desenvolvimento Agrário (SDT/MDA) nos Colegiados Territoriais do Rio Grande do Norte.Para tanto utilizou como base teórica para discussão os construtos controle social e participação social na Política Pública Os resultados evidenciam que, a política territorial trouxe novos atores para o cenário público, por um lado, e, por outro, dificuldades dos governos locais em operar sob a orientação de um novo paradigma de desenvolvimento. Nesse sentido, conclui-se a gestão territorial deve delinear estratégias participativas que envolvam todos os atores sociais fundamentais para o êxito no processo de consecução do PROINF.
USO DO TERRITÓRIO NO RIO GRANDE DO NORTE, CÍRCULOS DE COOPERAÇÃO E A REDE XIQUE-XIQUE DE ECONOMIA SOLIDÁRIA
Authors: Felix Felipe Silveira , Locatel Celso Donizete
Published: February 2022

A Economia Solidária envolve diversas formas de organização pautadas na autogestão e na cooperação e, a entendemos enquanto uma alternativa para os (as) trabalhadores (as) quebuscam nela as condições para conseguirem uma nova perspectiva de trabalho e de renda. As lógicas cooperativas e solidárias, nesse sentido, inserem-se de maneira diferente no território, modificando seu uso. Nessa perspectiva, combinam-se os usos e acirram-se as disputas, de um lado, os agentes hegemônicos, de outro, os Empreendimentos Econômicos Solidários que buscam, através de ações de resistência, reproduzir-se frente as adversidades encontradas. Dessa forma, buscamos compreender o uso do território a partir das ações em rede da RedeXique-Xique o ambiente institucional da Economia Solidária no Rio Grande do Norte e analisar o Círculo de Cooperação contra-hegemônico constituído a partir das práticas solidárias.
Poética da mobilidade
Authors: Ancona Lopez Freire Laura
Published: February 2022

Com base no livro “Memórias, sonhos, reflexões”, este artigo analisou as viagens de Jung, a partir de uma perspectiva multidisciplinar de viagem e estabelecendo conexões entre a obra junguiana e as distintas fontes de conhecimento e informação. Inicialmente, abordou-se a ideia de internacionalização e as primeiras curiosidades juvenis de Jung direcionadas a outras culturas. Em seguida, destacou-se a experiência relatada pelo próprio Jung sobre suas viagens. Jung realizou viagens de deslocamento físico, de elaboração de ideias e viagens internas, sendo que estas últimas têm caráter intimista e de transformação pessoal. No fim da obra analisada, Jung relata suas inquietações. Ele trata da racionalidade e da necessidade de aceitar o inconsciente e seus enigmas ainda não decifrados. Com uma perceptibilidade aguçada, discorre sobre temas que eram ridicularizados como objetos voadores não identificados, crença na vida após a morte e premonições dos sensitivos.
Rufino Tamayo
Authors: Torres Ana
Published: February 2022

Es una idea común considerar a Rufino Tamayo como una figura precursora “del primer rompimiento con el arte nacionalista”. Aunque es notable una persistente transformación en sus pinturas, sobre todo en la década de los años cuarenta, es uno de los artistas que continúa con una búsqueda estética anclada en las raíces del México indígena. Su estilo “primitivo” que inicia desde los años veinte y que forma parte de la diversidad de propuestas pictóricas de entonces, no desaparece del todo. Lo mismo sucede con la relación entre mexicanidad y modernidad, temática que desarrolla a lo largo de su carrera artística.

Las diversas interpretaciones han abordado su historia como la de un pintor “marginado” e “independiente”. El “indio oaxaqueño” que triunfó en Nueva York y que no tuvo ningún apoyo ni contacto con el mundo artístico mexicano de los años veinte y treinta, por lo general sus pinturas han sido estudiadas desde enfoques formalistas sin tomar en cuenta los contenidos políticos y filosóficos; también ha sido considerado el decano de la llamada generación de la Ruptura. Si bien es cierto, Tamayo tuvo discrepancias con algunos de sus colegas considero que también es preciso contemplar sus afinidades. Ha sido un error separarlo del contexto artístico y político que le tocó vivir. Considero importante aclarar estas imprecisiones historiográficas que han provocado la construcción de un mito alrededor de su figura. Es por ello, que en este artículo me propongo estudiar su desarrollo artístico desde la perspectiva de la continuidad y no de la ruptura.
Ambigüedad y polisemia en la enseñanza del español a extranjeros
Authors: Gutiérrez Haces Rosario
Published: February 2022

Entre todas las manifestaciones que existen en la lengua, que exigen un contexto para su comprensión y que constituyen un gran problema para un estudiante que aprende español están los casos originados por extensiones metafóricas, como la polisemia y la ambigüedad. Una de las mayores riquezas de las lenguas es que existen palabras y enunciados que son susceptibles de más de una interpretación, los hablantes nativos reanalizan el contenido y privilegian alguno de los sentidos posibles. Sin embargo, para un estudiante ésta es una tarea difícil sin estar suficientemente expuesto a la lengua y aun así no es nada sencillo, resulta a veces inaccesible y es indispensable la orientación. Para efectos didácticos conviene iniciar su enseñanza por los casos más prototípicos y de ahí extenderse hacia los periféricos.
La enseñanza de la historia en un mundo globalizado
Authors: Gómez-Aguado Guadalupe
Published: February 2022

Se ha dicho que en el contexto globalizado del siglo XXI las fronteras culturales tienden a desaparecer y las concepciones sobre el tiempo y la historia son iguales en todas partes. En ese sentido, en una realidad en la que el éxito económico se equipara con la felicidad y se busca la gratificación inmediata, la comprensión del pasado queda como una asignatura obsoleta que no tiene sentido en un mundo acostumbrado a la inmediatez.

Sin embargo, los seres humanos somos tiempo. El pasado está en nosotros, y nos explica y define. De ahí que la comprensión de la historia sea fundamental para entender, también, nuestra vida y los significados de la forma en que nos movemos y somos. El análisis de la época actual, en un contexto de globalización económica, así como los retos que implica la enseñanza de la historia hoy en día son el motivo de este artículo.
Melecio Galván
Authors: González Cruz-Manjarrez Maricela
Published: February 2022

El sentido del dibujo para Melecio Galván. Su valoración por parte de la crítica como uno de los mejores dibujantes del siglo XX en México. Historiografía y trabajos sobre el artista. Trayectoria, obras destacadas, planteamientos de un arte independiente y crítico dentro de la gráfica, especialmente en La Semana de Bellas Artes. Análisis estilístico y conceptual de su dibujo. El eclecticismo, la contracultura y lo gótico en su obra. Marco político y cultural relevante en sus 17 años de producción, especialmente el papel de los Grupos de los años setenta y el grupo Mira. La actualidad de sus planteamientos humanistas y neofigurativos.
Las competencias artísticas en la enseñanza del arte
Authors: Fernández Silvia , Chavero Gerardo
Published: February 2022

En el presente artículo se muestran las conclusiones y acuerdos obtenidos por los maestros del departamento de Arte en el seminario “La enseñanza del Arte en el Centro de Enseñanza para Extranjeros” sobre el análisis de los lineamientos nacionales e internacionales establecidos para la educación basada por competencias y generar las competencias específicas para el departamento de Arte del CEPE. Asimismo, se incluyen aspectos relacionados con los descubrimientos neurofisiológicos del cerebro humano, con el propósito de reflexionar ciertas nociones referentes al arte.
La cruz
Authors: Gómez-Aguado de Alba Guadalupe C.
Published: February 2022

A lo largo del siglo XIX mexicano las publicaciones periódicas fueron un medio idóneo para dar a conocer la ideología de grupos diversos y para crear opinión. Ese papel de la prensa decimonónica se acentuó a mediados de la centuria, cuando las leyes sobre libertad de prensa se flexibilizaron y ello coincidió con la llegada al poder de un grupo de liberales que pusieron en marcha un proyecto de nación que incluía la separación de la Iglesia y el Estado y la tolerancia de cultos. El periódico católico La Cruz comenzó a publicarse en ese contexto con el fin de defender a la religión de las medidas reformistas, y en sus páginas se dio a conocer un proyecto de nación católica que planteaba la necesidad de poner a Dios por encima de los intereses materiales. Los periodistas que escribieron en sus páginas identificaron al catolicismo como el único lazo de unión de los mexicanos, y afirmaron que dicha religión mantenía cohesionada a la sociedad de su tiempo. En el presente artículo se analiza el discurso de ese periódico, así como su proyecto político y el enfrentamiento que mantuvieron con el grupo liberal.
El “clóset de la crítica”
Authors: Silva Lomelí Alejandra
Published: February 2022

El presente trabajo tiene como objetivo mostrar algunas de las características más relevantes de la obra poética de la escritora jalisciense Rebeca Uribe (1911-1949), así como ofrecer algunos datos biográficos para, de esta manera, valorar su presencia y labor en los medios culturales de su tiempo. De igual manera, se consideran algunas de las razones por las cuales se desconoce su obra: la falta de un estudio más amplio de la poesía mexicana escrita por mujeres durante la primera mitad del siglo XX, un tiraje reducido de los libros de Uribe y la consiguiente escasa distribución, y finalmente el tratamiento de algunos temas en su poesía, especialmente el erotismo, en donde expuso ideas consideradas como transgresoras en su época.