bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self-colorimetric determination of bio-ethanol using permanganate in fermentation samples
Authors: Abdelazim Mohamed
Published: June 2021

Without the aid of chromatographic techniques, quantification of bio-ethanol in fermentation-broth distillate becomes inconvenient. Potassium permanganate is preferable over potassium dichromate because of the latter well-known toxic properties, it is common used in ethyl alcohol determination either by visible determination of Cr(III) green optical density, a consumed Cr(VI) determination in strong acid medium by measuring band absorbance decrease at 267 nm or the unreacted Cr(VI) determination iodometrically after alcohol oxidation. Nevertheless, these titre methods arise difficulties experience analysts from multiple solutions preparation, standardization that should be carried out every day and to successful end point detection in the presence of Cr(III) green color which leads to a significant ethanol quantification error. Noteworthy permanganate-iodometry drawbacks as same as titre dichromate difficult practical procedures and multiple reagents employed. In this laboratory a self colorimetric method was developed in neutral medium as alcohol-specific oxidizing agent precludes both of its undesirable high oxidizing properties and difficult titrimetric methodologies for bio-ethanol quantification. It is based on unreacted permanganate optical density difference between a non ethanol-containing sample as a blank and ethanol-containing sample is directly proportional to the consumed permanganate amount in ethanol red-ox reaction and consequently directly proportional to ethanol content. This optical density difference versus ethanol concentration 1–6% v/v obeys Beer-Lampert law provides limit of detection, limit of quantification and correlation coefficient equal 0.17%, 0.56% and 0.999 respectively.
Pathogenic antibodies induced by spike proteins of COVID-19 and SARS-CoV viruses
Authors: Wang Huiru , Chen Qiuchi , Hu Yue , Wu Xiancong , Dai Lin , Zhang Yuekai , Li Fang , Lu Jinfeng , Chen Yuxing , Liu Xiaoling
Published: June 2021

This study, using a virus-free mouse model, explores the pathogenic roles and novel mechanism of action of certain antibodies specific to the spike proteins of highly pathogenic coronaviruses such as the COVID-19 and the SARS-CoV viruses. These pathogenic antibodies, induced during a highly pathogenic infection such as the COVID-19 infection, target and bind to host vulnerable cells or tissues such as damaged lung epithelium cells, initiate a persistent self-attack immune response, and lead to serious conditions including ARDS, cytokine storms, and death. Moreover, the pathogenic antibodies may also be responsible for infection-related autoimmune diseases, including those experienced by COVID-19 long haulers. Furthermore, the pathogenic antibodies can bind to the unmatured fetal tissues and cause abortions, postpartum labors, still births, and neonatal deaths of pregnant females. Novel clinical interventions, through disrupting the binding of these pathogenic antibodies, can be developed to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, the new concept explored by this study may be applicable to other infectious diseases, such as the highly pathogenic influenza infections.
A Tablet ‐ Based Intervention for Activating Nursing Home Residents with Dementia: Results from a Cluster-Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: O'Sullivan Julie Lorraine , Lech Sonia , Gellert Paul , Grittner Ulrike , Voigt-Antons Jan-Niklas , Möller Sebastian , Kuhlmey Adelheid , Nordheim Johanna
Published: June 2021

Objectives: To investigate global and momentary effects of a tablet-based non-pharmacological intervention for nursing home residents living with dementia.Design: Cluster-randomized controlled trial.Setting: Ten nursing homes in Germany were randomly allocated to the tablet-based intervention (TBI, 5 units) or conventional activity sessions (CAS, 5 units).Participants: N = 162 residents with dementia. Intervention: Participants received regular TBI (n = 80) with stimulating activities developed to engage people with dementia or CAS (n = 82) for eight weeks.Measurements: Apathy Evaluation Scale (AES-I, primary outcome), Quality of Life in Alzheimer’s Disease scale, QUALIDEM scale, Neuropsychiatric Inventory, Geriatric Depression Scale and psychotropic medication (secondary outcomes). Momentary quality of life was assessed before and after each activity session. Participants and staff were blinded until collection of baseline data was completed. Data was analyzed with linear mixed-effects models.Results: Levels of apathy decreased slightly in both groups (mean decrease in AES-I of .61 points, 95%CI: -3.54 to 2.33 for TBI and .36 points, 95%CI: -3.27 to 2.55 for CAS). Group difference in change of apathy was not statistically significant (B = .25; 95%CI: -3.89 to 4.38, p = .91). This corresponds to a standardized effect size (Cohen’s d) of .02. A reduction of psychotropic medication was found for TBI compared to CAS. Further analyses revealed a post-intervention improvement in QUALIDEM scores across both groups and short-term improvements of momentary quality of life in the CAS group.Conclusions: Our findings suggest that interventions involving tailored activities have a beneficial impact on global and momentary quality of life in nursing home residents with dementia. Although we found no clear advantage of TBI compared to CAS, tablet computers can support delivery of non-pharmacological interventions in nursing homes and facilitate regular assessments of fluctuating momentary states. Funding: German National Association of Statutory Health Insurance Funds. Registry: ISRCTN98947160.
Exogenous surfactant in the late respiratory phase of COVID-19
Authors: Shapovalov K. G. , Lukyanov S. А. , Konnov V. А. , Rozenberg O. А.
Published: June 2021

The article presents data on the course of inhalations with a native surfactant administered in two patients (66 and 53 years old) at the late respiratory phase of the new coronavirus infection of COVID-19 (the 22nd and the 19th days from the disease onset) who received non-invasive artificial lung ventilation.Subjects and methods.For inhalations, an AeroNeb™ micropump nebulizer was used; for one inhalation, 75 mg of surfactant-BL was dissolved in 5 ml of isotonic sodium chloride solution. The treatment course included 5 days with 2 inhalations a day.Results.In both patients, upon the end of this therapy with the native surfactant, regression of respiratory failure was noted, the level of respiratory support was reduced to insufflation with humidified oxygen, and rehabilitation measures were started with subsequent discharge from the hospital.
Magmatic volatiles and platinum-group element mineralization in the Stillwater layered intrusion, U.S.A.
Authors: Parker Amy P. , Clay Patricia L. , Boudreau Alan E. , Burgess Ray , O’Driscoll Brian
Published: June 2021

The activity of volatile-rich fluids may be important in the evolution of basaltic magmatic systems and associated precious metal ore formation. There is evidence for Cl-rich fluids within the Stillwater Complex (Montana, U.S.A.), which have been linked to platinum and palladium mineralization in the economically important Johns-Manville (J-M) Reef ore body. We present the first data set for heavy halogens (Cl, Br, and I) and natural noble gas isotopes in bulk rock and mineral separates from the Peridotite Zone and the Olivine-Bearing Zone I of the Stillwater Complex, including samples from the J-M Reef and G Chromitite bodies. Our data reveal concentrations of 4 to 13 500 ppm for Cl, 26 ppb to 360 ppm for Br, and <1 ppb to 9 ppm I over the whole sample set. Cl, Br, and I correlate well with each other implying a shared process and/or distribution in mineral species. Br/Cl and I/Cl ratios span a range from 0.3 to 35 × 10−3 and 5 to 900 × 10−6 by weight, respectively, encompassing MORB-like to more enriched compositions, particularly for Br/Cl. High-Br/Cl ratios compared to MORB in some Stillwater samples suggest fractionation of halogens during the exsolution of a volatile-rich fluid to explain the most Br-enriched samples. More generally, the presence of minerals such as scapolite, hornblende, and apatite in the most halogen-enriched samples suggests that the halogen-bearing fluids were derived from the cooling of the intrusion rather than late-stage (low-temperature) metamorphism. The combined halogen abundance and noble gas isotope data set imply that crustal contamination may have played a limited role in the crystallization of pegmatoids and the G Chromitite but is not required to account for the halogen budget of the J-M Reef. High-halogen contents in the sulfide-bearing J-M Reef and associated lithologies are consistent with the influence of fluid-related activity during platinum-group element (PGE)-Reef formation, lending weight to the hydromagmatic model for mineralization in the Stillwater intrusion. Our new data also imply chalcophile tendencies of Br and I over Cl in sulfides in natural systems, hinting at the importance of sulfide liquid interaction with halogen-rich fluids in the formation of sulfide-hosted precious metal ore deposits.
New Trends in the Development of C-P Bond Forming Reactions
Authors: Romanenko Vadim D.
Published: June 2021

This account reviews some innovative (“non-classical”) synthetic strategies for the
formation of CP bonds developed during the last decades. It provides examples of the most
important milestones in this field, highlighting the state-of-art of functional phosphoruscontaining
molecules. Among these are the direct functionalization of organic substrates
through chlorine-free reactions with elemental phosphorus, syntheses based on phosphinidene
(RP) transfer, phosphorylating methodology employing multiple bonds containing P(III)
compounds, reactions with stable heterocyclic carbenes, and synthetic approaches using
phosphaethynolate and bis(trichlorosilyl)phosphide salts.
Peptidomimetics and Peptide-Based Blockbuster Drugs
Authors: Han Jianlin , Konno Hiroyuki , Sato Tatsunori , Izawa Kunisuke , Soloshonok Vadim A.
Published: June 2021

Amino acids (AAs) play an important role in the modern health industry. The aim
of this article was to assess that AAs’ residues are frequently found in the structures of smallmolecule
modern pharmaceuticals, while peptidomimetics and peptide-based drugs are entirely
derived from AAs. Currently, AAs serve as key structural features in numerous successful
pharmaceuticals, so-called blockbuster drugs. In this work, we provide a detailed profile
of 5 peptidomimetics and 4 peptide drugs. For each compound, we describe the spectrum of
biological activity, medicinal chemistry discovery, and synthetic preparation.
Spectroscopic and Computational Studies on a Dansyl Based Luminescent
Probe: Detection of Water Contaminant in Hygroscopic Deuterated
Solvents
Authors: Mandal Saurodeep , Pramanik Koushik , Das Sujoy , Islam Md Majharul , Mandal Sukhendu , Sahoo Prithidipa
Published: June 2021

:

A Dansyl functionalized fluorescent probe (DFFP) has been intended, synthesized,
and well-characterized (NMR, IR, Mass, SEM, SCXRD), capable of sensing trace amounts of
water contaminant in hygroscopic deuterated solvents by changing colour under UV irradiation.
A distinct bathochromic shift in emission spectra of probe DFFP and the visual colour change
(Green to Yellow) under UV lamp are the key evidence of the presence of water contaminant. To
prove the potentiality of the probe while detecting the remnant water, we did some experimental
studies along with exhaustive theoretical evaluation. DFT (Energy optimization and other
calculations) helped in better understanding the sensing mechanism and the mode of interactions
among probe-water-solvent. Total electron density mapped over Electrostatic Potential Surface
and calculation of ESP charges helped in locating more electron-dense regions in the ground
state. The involvement of TD-DFT studies helped in finding the possible electronic transitions
and corresponding absorption bands. Moreover, the probe is capable of sensing ethanolic water
vapour in the gaseous phase. Due to high fluorescence and being nontoxic to cells, probe DFFP
could be used as a potential cell imaging dye. It has been employed in a human cancer cell line
(A549), and fluorescent confocal microscopic images were obtained.
Synthesis of Stable Isotope Labeled D5-Cyhalothrin, D5-Fenpropathrin and
D5-Fenvalerate from Deuterium Phenol
Authors: Xu Zhongjie , Bai Shaofei , Shen Liyan , Luo Yong , Hu Zuming
Published: June 2021

:

A convenient synthetic route of deuterium-labeled D5-cyhalothrin, D5-fenpropathrin, and
D5-fenvalerate is described with 98.7%, 98.5%, and 98.3% isotopic enrichment and high chemical purities
using D6-phenol as labeled starting material. These structures and isotope-abundance were confirmed
by 1H NMR and mass spectrometry. The prepared D5-cyhalothrin, D5-fenpropathrin, and D5-
fenvalerate can be used as a standard internal reagent for the determination of residual pyrethroids of
food and environment.
How does emotional intelligence improve employee satisfaction and performance with mediating effect of employee engagement? Perspective from Saudi Arabian private companies
Authors:   Department of Business Administration, College of Business Administration, Majmaah University, Al-Majmaah, Saudi Arabia, Alferaih Adel
Published: June 2021

The main focus of this study is to examine how Emotional Intelligence (EI) improves Employee Job Satisfaction and Performance (EJSP) with mediating effect of Employee Engagement (EE) in private sector organizations of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). The nature of the research study is quantitative, and a correlational design has been adopted for the study. Primary data was collected from a sample of 537 employees of private organizations in major cities of KSA. SPSS and Smart PLS were used to run different statistical techniques to test the proposed model. The results of this research study reveal that EI positively impacts the performance and satisfaction level of employees where EE also mediates the relationship between EI and performance and satisfaction level of employees. Also, age, gender, and experience of employees act differently as a moderator in this study. The contribution from this research study would be an addition to existing literature. This research study holds a significant involvement towards theory, practice, and methodological progression in the field of learning and creating EI abilities and its vital influence on performance and satisfaction level of employees in the Saudi Arabian context, as no such study has been conducted in Saudi Arabia, to the best of our knowledge. The study is supposed to provide useful insights into the methodological advances in the field of EI as a learnable ability that can be created. EI should be enhanced to employees to get a significant level of performance and satisfaction in the working environment.
Фотолюминесценция композитов полиметилметакрилат / [(Zn,Cd)S : Mn,Cu,Eu]
Authors: Смагин В.П. , Исаева А.А.
Published: June 2021

Nanoscale structures based on zinc and cadmium sulfides doped with Mn, Cu, and Eu ions were synthesized by the method of emerging reagents in a polymerizing medium of methyl methacrylate. The broadband photoluminescence of the compositions is associated with recombination processes at the defect levels of semiconductor structures. Narrow photoluminescence bands occur during electron transitions between the energy levels of Eu3+ ions. The excitation of photoluminescence occurs as a result of the interband transition and electron transitions to the levels of structural defects, as well as during self-absorption and energy transfer to the levels of Eu3+ ions.
A Web Interface for Antibiotic Prescription Recommendations in Primary Care: User-Centered Design Approach
Authors: Madar Ronni , Ugon Adrien , Ivanković Damir , Tsopra Rosy
Published: June 2021

Background

Antibiotic misuse is a serious public health problem worldwide. National health authorities release clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) to guide general practitioners (GPs) in their choice of antibiotics. However, despite the large-scale dissemination of CPGs, GPs continue to prescribe antibiotics that are not recommended as first-line treatments. This nonadherence to recommendations may be due to GPs misunderstanding the CPGs. A web interface displaying antibiotic prescription recommendations and their justifications could help to improve the comprehensibility and readability of CPGs, thereby increasing the adoption of recommendations regarding antibiotic treatment.

Objective

This study aims to design and evaluate a web interface for antibiotic prescription displaying both the recommended antibiotics and their justifications in the form of antibiotic properties.

Methods

A web interface was designed according to the same principles as e-commerce interfaces and was assessed by 117 GPs. These GPs were asked to answer 17 questions relating to the usefulness, user-friendliness, and comprehensibility and readability of the interface, and their satisfaction with it. Responses were recorded on a 4-point Likert scale (ranging from “absolutely disagree” to “absolutely agree”). At the end of the evaluation, the GPs were allowed to provide optional, additional free comments.

Results

The antibiotic prescription web interface consists of three main sections: a clinical summary section, a filter section, and a recommended antibiotics section. The majority of GPs appreciated the clinical summary (90/117, 76.9%) and filter (98/117, 83.8%) sections, whereas 48.7% (57/117) of them reported difficulty reading some of the icons in the recommended antibiotics section. Overall, 82.9% (97/117) of GPs found the display of drug properties useful, and 65.8% (77/117) reported that the web interface improved their understanding of CPG recommendations.

Conclusions

The web interface displaying antibiotic recommendations and their properties can help doctors understand the rationale underlying CPG recommendations regarding antibiotic treatment, but further improvements are required before its implementation into a clinical decision support system.
Usability and Effectiveness of Immersive Virtual Grocery Shopping for Assessing Cognitive Fatigue in Healthy Controls: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Holdnack James A , Brennan Patricia Flatley
Published: June 2021

Background

Cognitive fatigue (CF) is a human response to stimulation and stress and is a common comorbidity in many medical conditions that can result in serious consequences; however, studying CF under controlled conditions is difficult. Immersive virtual reality provides an experimental environment that enables the precise measurement of the response of an individual to complex stimuli in a controlled environment.

Objective

We aim to examine the development of an immersive virtual shopping experience to measure subjective and objective indicators of CF induced by instrumental activities of daily living.

Methods

We will recruit 84 healthy participants (aged 18-75 years) for a 2-phase study. Phase 1 is a user experience study for testing the software functionality, user interface, and realism of the virtual shopping environment. Phase 2 uses a 3-arm randomized controlled trial to determine the effect that the immersive environment has on fatigue. Participants will be randomized into 1 of 3 conditions exploring fatigue response during a typical human activity (grocery shopping). The level of cognitive and emotional challenges will change during each activity. The primary outcome of phase 1 is the experience of user interface difficulties. The primary outcome of phase 2 is self-reported CF. The core secondary phase 2 outcomes include subjective cognitive load, change in task performance behavior, and eye tracking. Phase 2 uses within-subject repeated measures analysis of variance to compare pre- and postfatigue measures under 3 conditions (control, cognitive challenge, and emotional challenge).

Results

This study was approved by the scientific review committee of the National Institute of Nursing Research and was identified as an exempt study by the institutional review board of the National Institutes of Health. Data collection will begin in spring 2021.

Conclusions

Immersive virtual reality may be a useful research platform for simulating the induction of CF associated with the cognitive and emotional challenges of instrumental activities of daily living.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04883359; http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04883359

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

PRR1-10.2196/28073
Effects of Telemedicine and mHealth on Systolic Blood Pressure Management in Stroke Patients: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials (Preprint)
Authors: Lv Meina , Wu Tingting , Jiang Shaojun , Chen Wenjun , Zhang Jinhua
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND

Stroke is a common, harmful disease with high recurrence and mortality rates. Uncontrolled blood pressure is an important and changeable risk factor for stroke recurrence. Telemedicine and mobile health (mHealth) interventions may have the potential to facilitate the control of blood pressure among stroke survivors, but their effect has not been established.

OBJECTIVE

This systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted to estimate the effects of telemedicine and mHealth interventions on the control of systolic blood pressure among stroke survivors.

METHODS

The research literature published up to June 28, 2020, and consisting of RCTs related to telemedicine and mHealth interventions was searched in PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library. The Cochrane risk of bias tool (RoB 2.0) was used to evaluate the quality of the studies. The Cochran Q test and I2 statistic were used to assess heterogeneity. Data were meta-analyzed using a random-effects model. Mean difference (MD) with 95% CI and 95% prediction interval (PI) were calculated.

RESULTS

In total, 9 RCTs with a total sample size of 1583 stroke survivors met the inclusion criteria. Compared with the usual care, telemedicine and mHealth had a significantly greater impact on the control of systolic blood pressure (MD –5.49; 95% CI –7.87 to –3.10; P<.001; 95% PI –10.46 to –0.51). A subgroup analysis showed that the intervention mode of telephone plus SMS text messaging (MD –9.09; 95% CI –12.71 to –5.46; P<.001) or only telephone (MD –4.34; 95% CI –6.55 to –2.13; P<.001; 95% PI –7.24 to –1.45) had a greater impact on the control of systolic blood pressure than usual care. Among the stroke survivors with an intervention interval ≤1 week (MD –6.51; 95% CI –9.36 to –3.66; P<.001; 95% PI –12.91 to –0.10) or a baseline systolic blood pressure ≥140 mm Hg (MD –6.15; 95% CI –9.44 to –2.86; P<.001; 95% PI –13.55 to 1.26), the control of systolic blood pressure using telemedicine and mHealth was better than that of usual care.

CONCLUSIONS

In general, telemedicine and mHealth reduced the systolic blood pressure of stroke survivors by an average of 5.49 mm Hg compared with usual care. Telemedicine and mHealth are a relatively new intervention mode with potential applications for the control of systolic blood pressure among stroke survivors, especially those with hypertensive stroke.

CLINICALTRIAL
An Environmental Scan of Virtual “Walk-In” Clinics in Canada: Comparative Study (Preprint)
Authors: Matthewman Spencer , Spencer Sarah , Lavergne M Ruth , McCracken Rita K , Hedden Lindsay
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND

Canada has been slow to implement virtual care relative to other countries. However, in recent years, the availability of on-demand, “walk-in” virtual clinics has increased, with the COVID-19 pandemic contributing to the increased demand and provision of virtual care nationwide. Although virtual care facilitates access to physicians while maintaining physical distancing, there are concerns regarding the continuity and quality of care as well as equitable access. There is a paucity of research documenting the availability of virtual care in Canada, thus hampering the efforts to evaluate the impacts of its relatively rapid emergence on the broader health care system and on individual health.

OBJECTIVE

We conducted a national environmental scan to determine the availability and scope of virtual walk-in clinics, cataloging the services they offer and whether they are operating through public or private payment.

METHODS

We developed a power term and implemented a structured Google search to identify relevant clinics. From each clinic meeting our inclusion criteria, we abstracted data on the payment model, region of operation, services offered, and continuity of care. We compared clinics operating under different payment models using Fisher exact tests.

RESULTS

We identified 18 virtual walk-in clinics. Of the 18 clinics, 10 (56%) provided some services under provincial public insurance, although 44% (8/18) operated on a fully private payment model while an additional 39% (7/18) charged patients out of pocket for some services. The most common supplemental services offered included dermatology (15/18, 83%), mental health services (14/18, 78%), and sexual health (11/18, 61%). Continuity, information sharing, or communication with the consumers’ existing primary care providers were mentioned by 22% (4/18) of the clinics.

CONCLUSIONS

Virtual walk-in clinics have proliferated; however, concerns about equitable access, continuity of care, and diversion of physician workforce within these models highlight the importance of supporting virtual care options within the context of longitudinal primary care. More research is needed to support quality virtual care and understand its effects on patient and provider experiences and the overall health system utilization and costs.
Impact of a Postintensive Care Unit Multidisciplinary Follow-up on the Quality of Life (SUIVI-REA): Protocol for a Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Friedman Diane , Grimaldi Lamiae , Cariou Alain , Aegerter Philippe , Gaudry Stéphane , Ben Salah Abdel , Oueslati Haikel , Megarbane Bruno , Meunier-Beillard Nicolas , Quenot Jean-Pierre , Schwebel Carole , Jacob Laurent , Robin Lagandré Ségloène , Kalfon Pierre , Sonneville Romain , Siami Shidasp , Mazeraud Aurelien , Sharshar Tarek
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND

Critically ill patients are at risk of developing a postintensive care syndrome (PICS), which is characterized by physical, psychological, and cognitive impairments and which dramatically impacts the patient’s quality of life (QoL). No intervention has been shown to improve QoL. We hypothesized that a medical, psychological, and social follow-up would improve QoL by mitigating the PICS.

OBJECTIVE

This multicenter, randomized controlled trial (SUIVI-REA) aims to compare a multidisciplinary follow-up with a standard postintensive care unit (ICU) follow-up.

METHODS

Patients were randomized to the control or intervention arm. In the intervention arm, multidisciplinary follow-up involved medical, psychological, and social evaluation at ICU discharge and at 3, 6, and 12 months thereafter. In the placebo group, patients were seen only at 12 months by the multidisciplinary team. Baseline characteristics at ICU discharge were collected for all patients. The primary outcome was QoL at 1 year, assessed using the Euro Quality of Life-5 dimensions (EQ5D). Secondary outcomes were mortality, cognitive, psychological, and functional status; social and professional reintegration; and the rate of rehospitalization and outpatient consultations at 1 year.

RESULTS

The study was funded by the Ministry of Health in June 2010. It was approved by the Ethics Committee on July 8, 2011. The first and last patient were randomized on December 20, 2012, and September 1, 2017, respectively. A total of 546 patients were enrolled across 11 ICUs. At present, data management is ongoing, and all parties involved in the trial remain blinded.

CONCLUSIONS

The SUVI-REA multicenter randomized controlled trial aims to assess whether a post-ICU multidisciplinary follow-up improves QoL at 1 year.

CLINICALTRIAL

Clinicaltrials.gov NCT01796509; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01796509

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

DERR1-10.2196/30496
Sobre la presencia de algunos metales pesados en la atmósfera de la Ciudad de México
Authors: Salazar S. , Bravo J. L. , Falcón Y.
Published: June 2021

Las concentraciones de Cd y Pb en Ciudad Universitaria han aumentado 1.4 y 3.6 veces respectivamente en los últimos dos años. El Cu, Zn y Cd presentan una variación estacional y siguen el patrón de turbiedad atmosférica de la Ciudad de México (Lat. 19°20' N, 2, 268 m. s.n.m.). El Fe y el Pb se comportan aleatoriamente durante todo el año. Las concentraciones de Fe, Cd y Pb presentan una distribución log-normal; el Cu y Zn se aproximan muy débilmente a este tipo de distribución. Estos resultados fueron obtenidos recolectando muestras de aerosoles atmosféricos durante 14 meses (julio 79 - agosto 80) en el Observatorio de Radiación Atmosférica de Ciudad Universitaria, ubicado al sur de la Ciudad de México. Por el método de absorción atómica se analizaron 59 muestras, escogidas al azar y se determinaron las concentraciones de los cinco metales pesados ya mencionados.
Sobre la Acreditación en las Artes. Una lectura de los procesos de innovación curricular en la Facultad de Artes de la Universidad de Chile
Authors: Ponce de la Fuente Héctor , Olivares Rojas Paulo , Rossel Gallardo Camilo
Published: June 2021

El propósito de este artículo es ofrecer algunas reflexiones en torno a los procesos de acreditación académica en el marco de las artes a partir de una relación crítica sobre las etapas que conducen a la implementación de un plan de innovación curricular en el Departamento de Teatro de la Universidad de Chile. Además de ofrecer una breve inducción histórica, este escrito permite conocer las dimensiones disciplinares, curriculares y didácticas del proceso, junto con ofrecer una impresión desde la experiencia docente tanto sobre la etapa de elaboración del nuevo plan, como de la recepción por parte del claustro académico. Las miradas inscriptas en el presente ensayo permiten colegir la complejidad de un proceso en el que sus autores –variando las diversas perspectivas y posiciones en relación al objeto- intentan ofrecer un relato a partir de una experiencia situada, y, por ende, particular pero que, al mismo tiempo, permite pensar aspectos centrales de la relación entre Arte, Universidad, Educación y Sociedad.
Percepção de dermatologistas sobre a influência da psoríase na qualidade de vida dos pacientes
Authors: Souza Jhenifer , De Godoy Natalia Aparecida , Fernandes Pollo Camila , Miot Hélio Amante , Meneguin Silmara
Published: June 2021

Objetivo: Conhecer como a psoríase interfere na qualidade de vida dos pacientes na percepção de dermatologistas e identificar estratégias para melhoria e reorganização da assistência. Métodos: Pesquisa exploratória e descritiva, realizada em hospital público do interior de São Paulo, no período de dezembro de 2017 a março de 2018, com seis dermatologistas. As entrevistas foram transcritas e analisadas utilizando-se a estratégia metodológica do Discurso do Sujeito Coletivo. Resultados: Psoríase é uma doença que inflige prejuízo à qualidade de vida por estar associada a transtornos psicossociais, estigma, vergonha e perda da autoestima. Reduzir lesões e sintomas, melhorar a aparência, disponibilizar medicamento eficaz e oferecer atendimento humanizado são aspectos fundamentais para melhoria da qualidade de vida destes pacientes. Conclusão: Para os profissionais dermatologistas, a psoríase é uma doença crônica, que interfere na qualidade de vida dos pacientes, em virtude do preconceito sentido, dos transtornos psicossociais e sentimentos negativos que afloram, bem como das dificuldades sociais enfrentadas.
¿Es posible el pago de salarios con bitcoins en Uruguay?
Authors: Diana Juan , Gauthier Gustavo
Published: June 2021

Dado el creciente uso de las criptomonedas a nivel mundial, y dentro de estas el bitcoin (BTC), resulta necesario analizar el marco jurídico aplicable con el fin de detectar posibles cambios o actualizaciones. Uno de los aspectos incluidos en dicho análisis refiere a la posibilidad de efectuar el pago del salario de los trabajadores en bitcoins. En este artículo se busca, desde un abordaje principalmente jurídico y económico, conceptualizar jurídicamente al bitcoin para luego evaluar si la normativa vigente en Uruguay habilita el pago de salarios con esta criptomoneda. Se concluye que en Uruguay existen limitaciones legales para que los salarios mínimos se paguen con otros medios distintos de la moneda nacional, aunque podría establecerse un pago parcial con BTC mediante el mecanismo de los Consejos de Salarios. Para la parte del salario que supere el mínimo no habría inconvenientes, tanto se considere al BTC como dinero privado o como un bien incorporal “común”.
Perceived Impact of EMI on Students’ Language Proficiency in Vietnamese Tertiary EFL Contexts
Authors: Tran Thi Hoai Thu
Published: June 2021

English as a Medium of Instruction (EMI) has been widely adopted at the tertiary level in non-English speaking countries and Vietnam is no exception. Vietnamese universities and the Vietnamese government have anticipated significant linguistic benefits for student outcomes through the implementation of EMI. Using a mixed-methods design of surveys, interviews, and focus groups with students and lecturers at six Vietnamese universities, this study investigates lecturer and student perceptions of the impacts of EMI on students’ language proficiency in Vietnam. The study indicates that both students and lecturers were optimistic about students’ language improvement. This study recommends some implications for students, lecturers, and further research regarding EMI in the Vietnamese EFL context. Among the recommendations to emerge from this study, assessment on students’ language ability before they commence EMI courses and lecturers’ adequate language competence for EMI programs should be considered.
Novel nitrite reductase domain structure suggests a chimeric denitrification repertoire in Phylum Chloroflexi
Authors: Schwartz Sarah , Momper Lily , Rangel L. Thiberio , Magnabosco Cara , Amend Jan , Fournier Gregory
Published: June 2021

Denitrification plays a central role in the global nitrogen cycle,
reducing and removing nitrogen from marine and terrestrial ecosystems.
The flux of nitrogen species through this pathway has a widespread
impact, affecting ecological carrying capacity, agriculture, and
climate. Nitrite reductase (Nir) and nitric oxide reductase (NOR) are
the two central enzymes in this pathway. Here we present a previously
unreported Nir domain architecture in members of Phylum Chloroflexi.
Phylogenetic analyses of protein domains within Nir indicate that an
ancestral horizontal transfer and fusion event produced this chimeric
domain architecture. We also identify an expanded genomic diversity of a
rarely reported nitric oxide reductase subtype, eNOR. Together, these
results suggest a greater diversity of denitrification enzyme
arrangements exist than have been previously reported.
Effect of laser parameters on melting ratio and temperature distribution in dissimilar laser welding of brass and SS 308 using the artificial neural network model
Authors: Dong Xinmin , Hao Wangshen , Liu Jigao , Wang Guofang , Ren Haitao
Published: June 2021

In this study, according to the experimental results related to the dissimilar laser welding of brass-stainless steel 308, a performance approximation method called artificial neural network (ANN) was used. Welding speed, focal length, peak power, pulse width, and frequency were taken as input parameters, and temperature and melting ratio were considered as target characteristics. The ANN results were compared with the experimental results and the error percentage between them was obtained. Maximum relative errors were 9.63%, 10.55%, and 6.13% for brass alloy temperature, stainless steel, and melt ratio, respectively. Based on this comparison, the percentage of error between the experimental data and the ANN was at a reasonable level; so, this numerical method could be used with low time and cost. Also, by considering seven and five neurons in the hidden layer, the lowest mean squared error was obtained for temperature and melting ratio, respectively.
Biodiversidad de macrocrustáceos del río Fuerte, Sinaloa, México
Authors: Valdez-Flores Carlos M. , Soto-Domínguez Geovany , Hernández-Sandoval Pedro , Luna-Valdez Jesús G. , Rangel-Cota Gerardo , García Guerrero Marcelo U.
Published: June 2021

El río Fuerte, a través de su cauce forma grandes ecosistemas que sirven de hábitat para especies de macrocrustáceos de agua dulce que son de importancia ecológica y económica en la zona norte del estado de Sinaloa, México. El objetivo de esta investigación es generar información acerca de la diversidad de macrocrustáceos y su distribución espacial en el río Fuerte, ya que no existe información publicada al respecto. Se establecieron cinco estaciones de muestreo (El Fuerte, San Blas, San Miguel, San José y Las Grullas) a lo largo de su cauce en función de la altitud (m s.n.m) y distancia entre las mismas, iniciando en el municipio de El Fuerte (EI) hasta su desembocadura en la población de Las Grullas (EV) del municipio de Ahome. La riqueza específica total fue de 12 taxa. Palémonidos y cambáridos fueron los taxa mejor representados. La diversidad (índice de Shannon-Wiener) fue mayor (H ́=0,92) respecto a otros ríos de México. El análisis de ordenación nMDS de Bray Curtis indicó que la comunidad se puede agrupar en tres grupos bien definidos. Macrobrachium tenellum y Potimirim glabra fueron las especies más abundantes. El sector Las Grullas tuvo el menor número de individuos, con presencia de especies como Litopenaeus vannamei y Callinectes arcuatus. Además, se registró la presencia de una especie exótica (Procambarus clarkii) y una no citada previamente para la zona (P. glabra).
A HPV-oltás és a szülői egészségértés – kanyargós út az oltásig
Authors: Kun Eszter , Gács Zsófia , Benedek Angéla , Mészner Zsófia , Koltai Júlia
Published: June 2021

Az egészségértés (health literacy) szintje kulcstényező az egészségmegőrzés és a jóllét fenntartásában, amely egyre növekvő szerepet játszik a nemzetközi szakmapolitikai programok kidolgozásánál. Bár a kérdőíves felmérés szerint a gyermeket nevelő szülők magasabb egészségértési szinttel rendelkeznek, mint az átlag felnőttkorú lakosság hazánkban, a tudáselemek, felhasznált információk megítélésében (tévhitek), azok felhasználásában (problémamegoldás) és az adherencia tekintetében jelentős hiány mutatkozik. Az egészségügyi szakemberek még mindig a leghitelesebb forrásai az egészségügyi információk megosztásának, ezért kiemelten fontos, hogy felkészültek legyenek a hozzájuk forduló betegek illetve szülők egészségértésének kihívásaira.
Practical epistemology: the role of peer review in organizing scientific research
Authors: Shestopal A. V. , Konnov V. I.
Published: June 2021

The article considers peer review as the main procedure for demarcating scientific knowledge from other kinds thereof, which do not meet the criteria set for research results. The authors examine the history of peer review, which has first been used in early scientific journals and then has become one of the key approaches to distributing funds for research in science foundations, such as the U.S. National Science Foundation. The article also considers the role of peer review in the legal process, wherein observance of this procedure can be seen as the main criteria, which separates scientific evidence from mere testimony. The description of the main elements of the peer review procedure is based on the "Statement of principles for scientific merit review" the summary of the results of the Global Summit on Merit Review, which brought together heads of science funding organizations from more than 50 countries. The Statement listed the following principles: expert assessment, transparency, impartiality, appropriateness, confidentiality, integrity and ethical considerations. Although these principles are seen as a way to guarantee efficient peer review one has to consider the peculiarities of a particular research area, first of all the differences between social and natural sciences. Accordingly the article gives an overview of key traits of peer review in the social sciences and humanities. The authors also consider the main procedural elements - preparation of individual reviews, consideration by panels, anonymity of reviewers. Finally the article addresses the problems of peer review such as non-transparent process, elitism in selecting reviewers, conservativeness of decisions, and possible ways of handling these problems.
The Prototypes of MGIMO: from the History of Specialized Diplomatic Education in Russia
Authors: Kuznetsov A. I.
Published: June 2021

The article considers the history of establishing and developing specialized education of diplomats in the pre-revolutionary Russia that was perfected along with the professionalization and growth of the diplomatic service, while the country's international contacts expanded and grew more complicated. The author points out that specialized offices for foreign affairs and permanent diplomatic missions brought about the necessity of training personnel, which meant, in particular, developing specific skills and abilities. Perfecting the training of diplomats implied the growing role of higher education for the personnel in the diplomatic service and making entrance examinations to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs more and more difficult, which meant that the applicants had to possess specific knowledge in history, economics, law, regional studies, etc. The article analyzes the role of universities, lyceums and the Oriental Institute at the Asian Department of the 70 Ministry of Foreign Affairs in professional training of diplomats. The author gives a detailed analysis of the evolution of approaches of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Empire towards raising the standards of training diplomats, the role of the educational qualification and entrance examinations to the diplomatic service. It finally led the Ministry to the idea of creating a specialized education centre.
Credit Cycles: Econometric Analysis and Evidence for Russia
Authors: Artamonov N. V. , Artamonov D. V. , Artamonov V. A.
Published: June 2021

One of the principal problem in contemporary macroeconomics is concerned with factors increasing or decreasing economic dynamics. The mainstream approach is based on neoclassical assumptions, but recently new approaches appear mostly based on new Keynesian concepts. In present time the influence of monetary market and credit instruments become more and more significant. Credit resources of banking and financial structures can affect and distort to reallocation of resources for national and even for global economic. In present paper an empiric and econometric analysis for some macroeconometric and monetary indices for Russian Federation is done. An econometrical models describing the influence of credit variables onto real GDP is estimated. It is shown that in short-term periods changes in credit variables do influence significantly onto GDP. It is shown that on short-term periods changes in money aggregate M2 brings influence (through credit variables) onto national output. As well it is shown that changes in short-term interest rate brings significant negative influence onto real output. Impulse response functions for GDP on shocks of credit variables, monetary base and short-term interest rate are evaluated. For the present study of credit cycles and their impact to real business cycles statistical data (quarterly time series) on the following factors for Russian Federation are collected: nominal and real GDP, monetary base M2, short-term interest rate, long-term interest rate (10-year treasuries bill rate), total debt outstanding. All time series are seasonally adjusted and collected for the period 2004 Q1 - 2013 Q2. All interest rates are adjusted for inflation (i.e. we deal with real interest rates). The investigation of long-term relationship for the factors under consideration are based on integration. It is important to note that in the present paper all econometric models are estimated on "pure" statistical data, while in many research papers on business and credit cycles all evaluations and inferences are based on "filtered" time series (mostly filtered by Hodrick-Prescott's method). In present paper "causality" always means "Granger causality". All estimations are made in gretl, an open-source multiplatform econometric software.
Two Understandings of "Soft Power": Prerequisites, Correlates and Consequences
Authors: Parshin P.
Published: June 2021

The category of "soft power" suggested by Joseph Nye in early 1990s is analyzed in the paper as one of realization of tactile metaphor. Highlighted are those cognitive semantic peculiarities of this metaphor which contribute to its wide popularity and, at the same time, produce prerequisites for two dramatically different understandings of "soft power". According to technological understanding, "soft power" is an instrument or, broader, a technology, especially a communicative one, applied in world politics in such a way as to minimize damage caused to the object of power exertion in comparison to other, "hard power" instruments. In accordance with resource understanding, "soft power" is peculiar to influence exerted by an actor due to his/her/its attractiveness and shared values. The author analyses political and ideological correlates of these two understandings and relates them to different traditions in the study of country image and reputation, namely international relations theory and nation branding.. Analyzed are also the most topical disagreements about the "soft power" in the discourse of world politics.
Computer Network Attacks and Modern International Law
Authors: Kozik A. L.
Published: June 2021

Computer network attacks (CNA) is a no doubt actual theoretical and practical topic today. Espionage, public and private computer-systems disruptions committed by states have been a real life. States execute CNA's involving its agents or hiring private hacker groups. However, the application of lex lata remains unclear in practice and still undeveloped in doctrine. Nevertheless the international obligations, which states have accepted under the UN Charter and other treaties as well as customs - with any related exemptions and reservations - are still in force and create a legal framework, which one cannot ignore. Taking into account the intensity level or the consequences of a CNA the later could be considered as an unfriendly, but legal doing, or, as a use of force (prohibited under the article 2(4) of the UN Charter), or - in the case the proper threshold is taken - as an armed attack (which gives the victim-state the right to use force in self-defence under the customs and the article 51 of the UN Charter). Researches in the field of lex lata applicability to the CNAs could highlight gaps and week points of the nowadays legal regime. The subject is on agenda in western doctrine, and it is a pity - not in Russian one - the number of publication here is still unsatisfied. The article formulates issues related to CNAs and the modern international legal regime. The author explores the definition, legal volume of the term CNA, highlights main issues, which have to be analyzed from the point of the contemporary law.
Problem of “Cultural borders” in modern world: a value perspective
Authors: Silantieva M. V.
Published: June 2021

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Education as a value
Authors: Berezhnova E. V.
Published: June 2021

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