bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influência da pandemia da Covid-19 nos índices glicêmicos dos pacientes diabéticos
Authors: Silva Wenderson Bruno Herculano da , Côrtes Eunice Maria Pereira , Silva Wender Garcia Ramos da , Lima Tatiana Araújo de , Marta Cristiano Bertolossi , Francisco Márcio Tadeu Ribeiro , Silva Priscilla Oliveira da , Machado Paulo Roberto Ferreira , Gouvêa Abilene do Nascimento , Costa Cristiane Maria Amorim da
Published: November 2020

Introdução: O diabetes mellitus (DM) caracteriza-se como uma doença crônica não transmissível (DCNT) na qual o corpo não produz ou não consegue utilizar de maneira eficaz um hormônio chamado insulina, que é responsável por controlar a quantidade de glicose existente na corrente sanguínea. como método para evitar as complicações causadas por essa comorbidade o governo federal implementou a estratégia de saúde da família, que no ano de 2020 precisou fazer alterações no seu atendimento à população devido a pandemia causada pelo Sar-Cov-2. Objetivo: o objetivo desse trabalho foi identificar qual influência a pandemia causou nos índices glicêmicos dos pacientes portadores de DM. Metodologia: trata-se de um estudo descritivo de natureza quantiqualitativa, desenvolvida em uma Estratégia da Saúde da Família localizada na Zona Norte do Estado do Rio de Janeiro realizada com 10 enfermeiros lotados na unidade realizando uma busca nos prontuários e exames de hemoglobina glicada para identificarmos as alterações causadas pela pandemia. Para análise de conteúdo utilizou-se metodologia de Bardin. Resultado e Discussão: foram analisados 213 prontuários que fizeram parte dos critérios de inclusão, e todos apresentaram alteração dos índices glicêmicos. Conclusão: A atenção primária à saúde e suas equipes multidisciplinares são de extrema importância para a prevenção de agravos e promoção das doenças, da Saúde, isso ficou evidente no cuidado que as equipes tiveram para tratar dos sintomáticos respiratórios e das demais patologias e enquanto profissionais da saúde devemos sempre colocar o bem comunitário na frente de valores econômicos, e respeitar os indicadores epidemiológicos.
Reflexões sobre competências do enfermeiro especialista em dermatologia
Authors: Brandão Euzeli da Silva , Urasaki Maristela Belletti Mutt , Tonole Renato
Published: November 2020

Objetivo: promover a reflexão sobre as competências do enfermeiro na área de dermatologia. Método: trata-se de uma reflexão teórica baseada em uma pesquisa bibliográfica para fundamentação teórica. Resultado: na realidade multifacetada do cotidiano da enfermagem, o enfermeiro é um agente do processo de trabalho em saúde, com formação generalista. Um dos desafios tem sido se defrontar com uma diversidade de situações que nem sempre é capaz de intervir com resolutividade, realidade que leva a categoria enfrentar dilemas de ordem ética e moral. Nesse contexto, destaca-se que as doenças dermatológicas estão entre as três principais demandas de busca aos serviços de saúde, exigindo do enfermeiro competências para prevenção, tratamento e recuperação. Outro aspecto que prejudica a qualidade de atendimento a esta clientela específica relaciona-se à formação dos especialistas em dermatologia, pois os conteúdos programáticos dos cursos privilegiam temas relacionados ao tratamento de feridas, preterindo os cuidados às pessoas com afecções cutâneas, fato que dificulta a assistência digna e livre de riscos a esta clientela específica. Conclusão: para garantir a qualidade do cuidado da pele, torna-se necessário ao profissional enfermeiro um conjunto de saberes, habilidades e capacidades para adequado preparo do ambiente, avaliação integral da pessoa; seleção coerente de recursos e produtos; implementação de protocolos e guias, além da realização de pesquisas com níveis de evidências significativos junto a esta clientela específica. Acredita-se ser essencial estabelecer as competências e habilidades do enfermeiro especialista em dermatologia no brasil para que programas formadores se alinhem as propostas definidas.
Deficiência da glicose-6-fosfato desidrogenase (G6PD) em recém-nascidos, numa maternidade pública da cidade de Campina Grande, Estado da Paraíba, Brasil
Authors: Silva Keylla Malba da Costa e , Oliveira Evaldo Hipólito de , Fernandes Suenia Soares , Lins Sarah Pereira , Nóbrega Raquel de Almeida , Moreira Vandiara Martins , Nogueira Júnior Francisco Assis , Nascimento Maria do Socorro Viana do , Soares Leonardo Ferreira
Published: November 2020

Nos eritrócitos deficientes de glicose 6 fosfato desidrogenase (G6PD), a diminuição da redução de NADP em NADPH, leva a um baixo potencial redutor que interfere na capacidade metabólica oxidativa do organismo, ficando vulnerável a hemólise, com oxidação da membrana do glóbulo, podendo levar a crise hemolíticas. As manifestações da deficiência de G6PD são desencadeadas por fatores ambientais como drogas, fava, infecções. As manifestações clínicas consistem de crise hemolítica e icterícia neonatal.  Estudos indicam que no Brasil a prevalência de G6PD está em torno de 1 a 10%, sendo os maiores índices em populações com ancestralidade africana. O objetivo foi a pesquisa da deficiência da G6PD em recém-nascidos numa maternidade pública na cidade de Campina Grande. Trata-se de um estudo transversal, onde foram coletados sangue do cordão umbilical de 147 recém-nascidos. O diagnóstico da deficiência da G6PD será realizado através do teste da redução da metahemoglobina (teste de Brewer). A cidade de Campina Grande, bem como todo o Compartimento da Borborema não apresentam nenhum dado relativo a prevalência da deficiência da G6PD. O Ministério da Saúde fortalece através do SUS a coleta de informações relativas a esta doença na perspectiva de implantação de um programa de atenção à saúde dos doentes detectados, promovendo melhoras na sua qualidade de vida.
Year-round offshore distribution, behaviour, and overlap with commercial fisheries of a Critically Endangered small petrel
Authors: Fischer JH , Debski I , Spitz DB , Taylor GA , Wittmer HU
Published: November 2020

Without insights into the threats affecting species across their distributions and throughout their annual cycles, effective conservation management cannot be applied. The Whenua Hou diving petrel Pelecanoides whenuahouensis (WHDP) is a Critically Endangered small seabird whose offshore habits and threats are poorly understood. We tracked WHDPs year-round in 2015/16, 2017/18, and 2018/19 using global location-sensing immersion loggers to identify offshore distribution, movements, behaviour, and overlap with commercial fishing effort. During the breeding period, WHDPs ranged from southern Aotearoa (New Zealand) to Maukahuka (Auckland Islands). After breeding, WHDPs migrated southwest towards the Polar Front south of Australia, exhibited clockwise movements, and returned to their breeding grounds via the Subantarctic Front. During the non-breeding period, WHDPs exhibited extreme aquatic behaviour and spent >95% of their time on, or under, water. The core areas used consistently during breeding and non-breeding periods warrant listing as Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas. Spatiotemporal overlap of commercial fishing effort with breeding distributions was considerable (35%), in contrast with non-breeding distributions (0%). Spatial restrictions of anthropogenic activity around the breeding colony during the breeding period could help protect WHDPs, but such measures should be subjected to a structured decision-making framework. Our results illustrate the importance of year-round studies to inform conservation of marine species.
Evidence and description of a nursery habitat for the recently reclassified stingray Styracura schmardae from The Bahamas
Authors: O’Shea OR , Van Leeuwen TE , O’Brien DA , Arrowsmith L , McCalman R , Griffiths M , Exton DA
Published: November 2020

While definitions of elasmobranch nurseries remain fluid within the literature, the identification and description of nursery habitats for batoids remain relatively scarce. The Atlantic chupare stingray Styracura schmardae, a large-bodied demersal ray that was recently described from The Bahamas, is considered Data Deficient by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature. Using a combination of mark-recapture and benthic habitat surveying, we describe long-term site fidelity of S. schmardae for the first time, and provide evidence and characteristics of a nursery environment for this species in South Eleuthera, The Bahamas. Overall, 190 capture events were recorded from 86 tagged individuals from April 2014 to August 2017 (1222 d), with 51% of individuals recaptured at least once, 36% at least twice and 2% 6 times. Most (95%) of the captured rays were considered immature (mean disc width 553.5 mm) and had a mean ± SD residence time of 243 ± 177 d. Residence time did not differ among sites, sex or size (disc width) of individual rays at time of capture. Of 4 creeks sampled, Deep Creek had the highest prevalence of captures and recaptures, and correspondingly the highest values for soft sediment cover and sediment depth among sites, suggesting these habitat characteristics in particular may be important in supporting populations of juvenile S. schmardae. Results of this study will better inform effective management and conservation efforts for S. schmardae, including concentrating localised conservation efforts on these ecosystems.
„Itt az a jó, amit az emberből fölhoz” : Bartos Éva (szerk.): A biblioterápia közelről
Authors: Gombos Péter
Published: November 2020

Recenzió
Crisis of faith or faith of crisis
Authors: Bezniuk Dmitry K.
Published: November 2020

Some indicators of the religiosity of the population of Belarus according to the results of opinion polls 2017–2019 are presented. Global characteristics are distinguished against which the religious situation is developing, and a system of factors characterizing the specificity of religiosity in modern Belarus. An attempt is made to forecast a change in religiosity.
Culture potential and mechanism for forming a new progress ideal
Authors: Danilov Alexander N.
Published: November 2020

The article substantiates the theoretical foundations of the technology of forming a new progress ideal, reveals the role of culture and its potential in this process. The author justifies the existence and constant updating of the cultural code, its fundamental vital meanings and basic values, suggests the possibility of destructive changes when shifting the cultural status of basic values. The author considers of the article as the main conclusions, firstly, the mechanism of transition of society to a new state, where new types of sociality arise, fundamental life meanings and basic values are updated; secondly, the author shows that the formation of a new matrix of values and the renewal of life meanings is a condition for the transition to a new type of civilizational development, which is growing within modern society; thirdly, the revolution in the field of communication allows the transfer to the traditional cultural status of pseudocultural or extra-cultural values, thereby opening the way for the destruction of the foundations of culture.
Theoretical and practice-oriented sociology, its virtual and real grounds
Authors: Levko Anatoly I.
Published: November 2020

In this article, the author distinguishes between practical sociology, the field of study of which is socio-cultural reality, and theoretical sociology, the subject of study of which is logical analysis of concepts and empirical facts. Positivist sociology, according to his opinion, deals not with the social reality itself, but with its modeling in the researcher’s thinking with the help of methods of various surveys, document analysis, social experiment. Practice-oriented sociology studies the following: socio-historical, socio-symbolic, anthropological and other cultural reality, in the study of which the decisive role belongs not to theory and logical analysis, but to experience of social interaction within a certain social space and time characterized by their inherent values and norms of behavior (historical epoch, national, territorial, settlement, gender and age, professional and other community). To form a realistic picture of crime in society, to reveal the causes of crisis in education, spiritual and moral degradation etc. from the position of their theoretical modeling, is impossible, according to the researcher. Its creation requires an appeal to the analysis of spiritual, symbolic, energy and other foundations of the development and functioning of society. The author traces the development of sociological science from medieval nominalism and realism to positivism of Auguste Conte, and from him to social logic and laws of imitation of Gabriel Tarde and social-cultural sociology of Emile Durkheim, from the religious and philosophical tradition of orthodox energetism and cosmism to social structuralism of Levi-Strauss and Michel Foucault, «habitus» by Pierre Bourdieu, symbolic interactionism of George Mead, theory of stigmatization, noospheric sociology, and a number of other research areas of Western European, American and domestic sociology.
Phenomenon of Donna: the glamour and poverty of Fair Lady
Authors: Mojeiko Marina A.
Published: November 2020

It is devoted to identifying the causes of the formation of Donna’s phenomenon in the courteous tradition and the essence of the cult of the Fair Lady as the foundation of troubadours’ poetry. The specificity of womenʼs position in society in the period of 10th–13th centuries has been revealed. The situation of woman in marriage and its alternatives have been considered. The directions of womenʼs activity in various areas of medieval life have been analysed: economy, politics, religion, art. The mechanisms of limitations of this activity have been discovered. The features of the position of women in the southern French region have been described. The interpretation of woman in the courteous literature has been reconstructed.
Will science save humanity?
Authors: Babosov Evgenii M.
Published: November 2020

The article examines the global challenges of our time (globalisation, global instability, global climate change, digitalisation, etc.) and the role of science in resolving them. The history of science testifies that new ideas and theories are put forward most often when, within the framework of existing knowledge, an area of ignorance of the causes of a certain range of phenomena and processes appears. It is noted that Belarus is implementing a comprehensive program for the introduction of digital technologies in production, as well as in the health care, education, and culture systems. The basic components of a full-format digital technology package are powerful centralised and distributed computing resources, software based on artificial intelligence systems. Here, new generation network resources are being mastered, combining Big Data. The role of science in the movement of humanity towards the future is comprehended. The need for the emergence of human civilisation, in the center of which man will live and act, is affirmed. This person is comprehensively developed, multidimensional, creatively transforming the surrounding reality.
What such of subjectology?
Authors: Berkov Vladimir F.
Published: November 2020

The assumption is based that subjectology, synthesising the results of a number of particular disciplines about the man (sociology, politologii, psychology, the methodology of science, theory of control, etc.), it appears as transdisciplinary science. In its formation the ideas of constructivism play the decisive role. The Marxist principle of activity composes its philosophic methodological basis. Keywords: subjectology; activity; the principle of activity; transdisciplinary science; triad is purpose – means – result; shift «into the side»; the constructivism.
Corruption and Debt Hangover: An Empirical Study of sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Anaraki Nahid Kalbasi
Published: November 2020

This paper investigates the determinants of foreign debt for 25 countries in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Previous studies have emphasized factors such as oil price shocks, deteriorating terms of trade, rising public expenditures, and trade deficit as the main causes of debt hangover in SSA. This study uses a different approach, and measures the effects of corruption on debt through different regression models, and finds that the corruption index is significant in shaping debt hangover in sub-Saharan Africa. Also, the estimated results indicate that the corruption index plays a more important role compared to other macroeconomic fundamentals. The results also indicate that corruption has become a more significant post financial crisis of 2007 when several African countries faced with a new phase of debt forgiveness. Indeed, the results of this study suggest that debt forgiveness has entrapped SSA countries with more corruption, which has exacerbated the level of debt.
The Effectiveness of Adapting the Six Thinking Hats Model into Music Courses to Improve Critical Thinking Skills
Authors: Jasina John , Choi Eunjung
Published: November 2020

The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of adopting the Six Thinking Hats (STH) model into music appreciation courses to examine the improvement in student critical thinking skills. The research employed a pre-experimental research design with a single group pre-test and post-test design. The study was a quantitative study analyzing the results of a critical thinking pre-test and critical thinking post-test for a sample of 24 college students. The results of the study revealed that adapting the STH model for discussion activities resulted in more positive results compared to other teaching techniques proposed in the curriculum.
On the Discovery of an Elizabethan “Sonet in the commendation of Sir Thomas More Knyght”: Memory, Martyrdom, and Poetry
Authors: Bahr Stephanie
Published: November 2020

This article introduces the discovery of a “Sonet in the commendation of Sir Thomas More Knyght” found in a copy of the 1557 English Workes printed by Richard Tottel and edited by William Rastell. It argues the sonnet was written by a Tudor Catholic early in Elizabeth's reign and should also be read in light of its 1557 print context: its physical place in Workes alongside Rastell's Preface, and in conjunction with Tottel's Miscellany printed the same year. Read through such a lens, this newly discovered sonnet helps illuminate the idiosyncratic complexity of Catholic experience in Elizabethan England concerning memory, martyrdom, censorship and repression.
RANCANG BANGUN SISTEM INFORMASI LAYANAN KONSULTASI BANTUAN HUKUM LPKBH AL-BAIHAQY SURABAYA
Authors: Muriyatmoko Dihin , Sholeh Badrus , Utama Shoffin Nahwa
Published: November 2020

Aturan dan bahasa hukum yang terkesan kaku menyulitkan masyarakat tidak mampu dan awam hukum dalam memahami bagaimana memperjuangkan hak keadilannya.Hal ini mendorong Lembaga Pengkajian Konsultan Bisnis dan Bantuan Hukum (LPKBH) Al-Baihaqy Surabaya untuk memberikan layanan konsultasi dan bantuan hukum kepada masyarakat. Layanan konsultasi dan bantuan hukum yang ditawarkan LPKBH Al-Baihaqy dapat didapatkan dengan mendatangi kantor lembaga. Sedangkan, kesibukan masyarakat dalam aktivitas,kemungkinan sedikitkesempatan untuk pergi berkonsultasi di lembaga bantuan hukum atau di rumah praktik pengacara. Selain itu, keberadaan lembaga ini tidak begitu dikenal karena jangkauan pasar yang kecil. Keadaan ini membuat LPKBH Al-Baihaqy menginginkan untuk menghadirkan layanan konsultasi yang dapat dilakukan secara onlinedengan memanfaatkan teknologi informasi. Penelitian ini menghadirkan solusi dengan membangun sebuah sistem informasi yang mempermudah layanan konsultasi dan bantuan hukum di LPKBH Al-Baihaqy Surabaya secara transparan dan memberikan layanan konsultasi gratis kepada masyarakat yang kurang mampu. Sistem berbasis web dan dibangun dengan bahasa pemrograman PHP menggunakan kerangka kerja Codeigniter. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mempermudah masyarakat yang ingin berkonsultasi tentang masalah hukum dengan LPKBH Al-Baihaqy Surabaya melalui media online. Penelitian menghasilkan tiga fitur layanan, yaitu konsultasi online, konsultasi tatap muka, dan penanganan hukum. Aplikasi diimplementasikan dan diunggah ke hostingdengan domain ruanglawyer.com. Analisa kepuasan responden menunjukkan rata-rata berada pada 4.43 dari skala lima yang berarti sistem informasi layanan konsultasi bantuan hukum ini memberikan kepuasan kepada pengguna.
Rancang Bangun Sistem Kendali Jarak Jauh Lampu Menggunakan Thingsboard Berbasis Iot
Authors: Yuswandari  , Yuana Haris
Published: November 2020

Internet menyediakan berbagai fungsi dan fasilitas yang dapat digunakan sebagai suatu media informasi dan komunikasi yang canggih. Perkembangan teknologi yang bisa dimanfaatkan dari adanya koneksi internet ini adalah bisa mengakses peralatan elektronik seperti lampu ruangan yang dapat dioperasikan dengan cara online melalui website. Penelitian ini dilatar belakangi oleh perlunya suatu sistem kendali jarak jauh yang efesien dan optimal dalam penggunaannya di era globalisasi ini. Dengan kenyataan saat ini maka dituntut untuk dapat menyelesaikan permasalahan yang ada dengan memanfaatkan kecanggihan teknologi serta efiesiensi dalam penggunaannya. Dengan adanya keperluan tersebut muncul sebuah pemikiran untuk membuat sistem kendali jarak jauh lampu menggunakan thingsboard berbasis IoT. ThingsBoard adalah platform IoT open-source untuk pengumpulan data, pemrosesan, visualisasi, dan manajemen perangkat. Dalam penelitian ini mengunakan metode R & D karena hasil akhir penelitian ini akan menghasilkan produk rancang bangun sistem kendali jarak jauh lampu berbasis IoT. Hasil penelitian yang diperoleh adalah lampu dapat menyala sesuai dengan perintah melalui thingsboard. Web server thingsboard dapat berjalan dengan baik. Web server Thingsboard dan program NodeMCU dapat terhubung yaitu dengan menggunakan token dari Thingsboard. Sistem kendali jarak jauh lampu akan dapat berjalan apabila nodemcu dan perangkat untuk kendali (smartphone atau komputer) berada dalam satu jaringan wifi.
Blood pressure parameters and the development of congestive heart failure among hypertensive patients at Kiambu County Hospital, Kenya
Authors: Mac’oduol Isabell , Thigiti Joseph , Maingi Lydia
Published: November 2020

Introduction: Global incidence of heart failure is on increase. Heart failure has been shown to be on the increase with 1-3% admission rates globally and a 3-7% admission rate in the African hospitals. Hypertension (HTN) has been shown to play a pivotal role in the evolution and syndrome of heart failure where it is mostly non- ischemic in origin yet there are few studies on the association of the individual blood parameters and heart failure.

Objective: The study assessed the individual blood pressure parameters as prognosticators of congestive heart failure (CHF) in hypertensive patients.

Method: A retrospective study was carried out at Kiambu County Hospital, on 205 heart failure patients who met the Framingham Criteria. The parameters observed included the time of onset of CHF, systolic/ diastolic blood pressure, pulse pressure and their duration to the development of CHF. Multivariable cox proportional hazard regression models were used to determine the effects of individual blood pressure parameters relative to the onset of CHF.

Results: Overall, 205 patients were eligible for the study. Median time to CHF was estimated to be 4 years (range: 1-18), median age of CHF development was 65.7 years with a 68.8% female preponderance. Pulse pressure of 55- 60 mm Hg (AHR: 2.21; 95%CI: 1.16-4.21), hypertension duration of 5-10 years (AHR: 0.14; 95%CI: 0.088-0.223) and over 10 years (AHR: 0.023; 95%CI: 0.010-0.050) were significantly associated with the development of CHF.

Conclusion: Pulse pressure is a better prognosticator of CHF in hypertensive patients with a hazard ratio of 2.2 times more likely in patients with a pulse pressure of 55- 60 mmHg than those below 55mm Hg.
Effects of Teacher Participation in in-service Training on Achievement in Kenya Certificate of Primary Examination in Kirinyaga County, Kenya
Authors: Kariuki Damaris , Itegi Florence , Ogeta Norbert
Published: November 2020

Teacher Professional Development is a key component of educational reforms across the world due to its effects on teacher effectiveness and learner outcomes. Teachers engage in different professional development programs to improve learner achievements. However, the effects of teacher participation in in-service courses on learners’ achievement have come under scrutiny due to persistent low learning outcomes. The study adopted convergent parallel mixed methods approach design. A sample of 194 teachers in 68 public and private primary schools was selected using stratified random and purposive sampling. Data collection instruments were questionnaires and focus group discussion guide. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The study established that teacher participation in formal training programs had statistically insignificant effects on Kenya Certificate of Primary Examination achievement indicating that other factors like individualized attention to learners, prompt marking and revision of tests as well as supervision of teaching and learning contributed greatly. The in-service courses were found to be short term and infrequent. The study recommends engagement of teachers in continuous and frequent professional development activities and establishment of school infrastructure to support daily collaborative teacher professional development activities at the school level.
Metabolic Vulnerabilities and Epigenetic Dysregulation in Myeloproliferative Neoplasms
Authors: Sharma Vasundhara , Wright Kenneth L. , Epling-Burnette Pearlie K. , Reuther Gary W.
Published: November 2020

The Janus kinase 2 (JAK2)-driven myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) are associated with clonal myelopoiesis, elevated risk of death due to thrombotic complications, and transformation to acute myeloid leukemia (AML). JAK2 inhibitors improve the quality of life for MPN patients, but these approved therapeutics do not readily reduce the natural course of disease or antagonize the neoplastic clone. An understanding of the molecular and cellular changes requisite for MPN development and progression are needed to develop improved therapies. Recently, murine MPN models were demonstrated to exhibit metabolic vulnerabilities due to a high dependence on glucose. Neoplastic hematopoietic progenitor cells in these mice express elevated levels of glycolytic enzymes and exhibit enhanced levels of glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation, and the disease phenotype of these MPN model mice is antagonized by glycolytic inhibition. While all MPN-driving mutations lead to aberrant JAK2 activation, these mutations often co-exist with mutations in genes that encode epigenetic regulators, including loss of function mutations known to enhance MPN progression. In this perspective we discuss how altered activity of epigenetic regulators (e.g., methylation and acetylation) in MPN-driving stem and progenitor cells may alter cellular metabolism and contribute to the MPN phenotype and progression of disease. Specific metabolic changes associated with epigenetic deregulation may identify patient populations that exhibit specific metabolic vulnerabilities that are absent in normal hematopoietic cells, and thus provide a potential basis for the development of more effective personalized therapeutic approaches.
No Evidence of Re-infection or Person-to-Person Transmission in Cured COVID-19 Patients in Guangzhou, a Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Xu Gang , Liu Feng , Ye Min , Zhao Jun , Li Qing , Feng Congrui , Hu Yudong , Li Yueping , Shi Haiyan , Zhang Fuchun , Tong Yuwei , Ma Wei
Published: November 2020

Objectives: To clarify the clinical characteristics of cured patients with coronavirus disease (COVID-19), and to clarify the re-infection and person-to-person transmission in the cured.

Methods: A total of 187 cured COVID-19 patients with antibody test were followed up every 2 weeks in this retrospective observational study. Assessment for general condition, symptoms, epidemiological contact history, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay, and antibody tests were performed and recorded. Information from Guangzhou CDC was also screened.

Results: There were 33 (17.6%) patients with negative results for IgG and 35 (18.7%) patients with positive results for IgM. The average days of antibody detection from disease onset were 53.0. PCR assay was positive in 10 (5.3%) patients during the follow-up. Neither IgG nor IgM results showed a relationship with PCR test results (all P > 0.05). Neither re-infection nor person-to-person transmission was found in the cured patients. Factors associated with appearance of antibody comprised hospitalization days (OR: 1.06, 95%CI: 1.02–1.11, P = 0.006) and antibiotics treatment (OR: 3.50, 95%CI: 1.40–8.77, P = 0.007).

Conclusions: In our study, no evidence of person-to-person transmission was found in cured COVID-19 patients. There seemed to be no re-infection in the cured COVID-19 patients in Guangzhou. These finding suggest that the cured do not cause the spread of disease. Additionally, neither IgG nor IgM can be used to replace the PCR test in cured patients.
Arteriovenous Malformations Treated With Frameless Robotic Radiosurgery Using Non-Invasive Angiography: Long-Term Outcomes of a Single Center Pilot Study
Authors: Kelly Ryan , Conte Anthony , Nair M. Nathan , Voyadzis Jean-Marc , Anaizi Amjad , Collins Sean , Kalhorn Christopher , Stemer Andrew , Mai Jeffery , Armonda Rocco , Lischalk Jonathan , Berkowitz Frank , Nayar Vikram , McGrail Kevin , Collins Brian Timothy
Published: November 2020

Objective

CT-guided, frameless robotic radiosurgery is a novel radiotherapy technique for the treatment of intracranial arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) that serves as an alternative to traditional catheter-angiography targeted, frame-based methods.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with AVMs who completed single fraction frameless robotic radiosurgery at Medstar Georgetown University Hospital between July 20, 2006 – March 11, 2013 were included in the present study. All patients received pre-treatment planning with CT angiogram (CTA) and MRI, and were treated using the CyberKnife radiosurgery platform. Patients were followed for at least four years or until radiographic obliteration of the AVM was observed.

Results

Twenty patients were included in the present study. The majority of patients were diagnosed with Spetzler Martin Grade II (35%) or III (35%) AVMs. The AVM median nidus diameter and nidal volume was 1.8 cm and 4.38 cc, respectively. Median stereotactic radiosurgery dose was 1,800 cGy. After a median follow-up of 42 months, the majority of patients (81.3%) had complete obliteration of their AVM. All patients who were treated to a total dose of 1800 cGy demonstrated complete obliteration. One patient treated at a dose of 2,200 cGy developed temporary treatment-related toxicity, and one patient developed post-treatment hemorrhage.

Conclusions

Frameless robotic radiosurgery with non-invasive CTA and MRI radiography appears to be a safe and effective radiation modality and serves as a novel alternative to traditional invasive catheter-angiography, frame-based methods for the treatment of intracranial AVMs. Adequate obliteration can be achieved utilizing 1,800 cGy in a single fraction, and minimizes treatment-related side effects.
Manipulating Amino Acid Metabolism to Improve Crop Nitrogen Use Efficiency for a Sustainable Agriculture
Authors: Dellero Younès
Published: November 2020

In a context of a growing worldwide food demand coupled to the need to develop a sustainable agriculture, it is crucial to improve crop nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) while reducing field N inputs. Classical genetic approaches based on natural allelic variations existing within crops have led to the discovery of quantitative trait loci controlling NUE under low nitrogen conditions; however, the identification of candidate genes from mapping studies is still challenging. Amino acid metabolism is the cornerstone of plant N management, which involves N uptake, assimilation, and remobilization efficiencies, and it is finely regulated during acclimation to low N conditions and other abiotic stresses. Over the last two decades, biotechnological engineering of amino acid metabolism has led to promising results for the improvement of crop NUE, and more recently under low N conditions. This review summarizes current work carried out in crops and provides perspectives on the identification of new candidate genes and future strategies for crop improvement.
Mentalizing Subtypes in Eating Disorders: A Latent Profile Analysis
Authors: Gagliardini Giulia , Gullo Salvatore , Tinozzi Valeria , Baiano Monica , Balestrieri Matteo , Todisco Patrizia , Schirone Tiziana , Colli Antonello
Published: November 2020

Background: Mentalizing, the mental capacity to understand oneself and others in terms of mental states, has been found to be reduced in several mental disorders. Some studies have suggested that eating disorders (EDs) may also be associated with impairments in mentalizing. The aim of this work is to investigate the possible presence of mentalizing subtypes in a sample of patients with EDs.

Method: A sample of patients with eating disorders (N = 157) completed a battery of measures assessing mentalization and related variables, including the Reflective Functioning Questionnaire (RFQ), the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Strategies (DERS), the Interpersonal Reactivity Index (IRI). Clinicians rated patients in relation to imbalances in different dimensions of mentalization to prementalizing modes and attachment style by using the Mentalization Imbalances Scale, the Modes of Mentalization Scale (MMS), and the Adult Attachment Questionnaire. A latent profile analysis was conducted to test the possible presence of different subgroups. MANOVA was used to test the possible differences between the four mentalizing profiles in relation to emotion dysregulation (DERS), empathy (IRI), and adequate and impairments in mentalizing (MMS and RFQ).

Results: The latent profile analysis suggested the presence of four different profiles in relation to impairments in the dimensions of mentalization: (1) affective/self/automatic imbalances, (2) external imbalance, (3) cognitive/self/automatic imbalances, and (4) cognitive/other/automatic imbalances. Patients belonging to profile 1 are characterized by the prevalence of affective mentalization that overwhelms the capacity to reflect on mental states with an imbalance on the self-dimension; profile 2 patients are excessively focused on the external cues of mentalization; profile 3 patients are characterized by an over-involvement on the cognitive and self-facets of mentalization, with an impairment in adopting the other mind perspective; and profile 4 patients have similar impairments compared to profile 3 patients but with an excessive focus on others and deficits in self-reflection. These profiles were heterogeneous in terms of EDs represented in each group and presented significant differences on various variables such as attachment style, emotion dysregulation, empathy, interpersonal reactivity, and reflective function. This study represents, so far, the first work that confirms the presence of different mentalizing patterns in ED patients.

Conclusions: ED patients can be classified in relation to impairments in different dimensions of mentalization above and beyond ED diagnosis.
Tiny Fungi in the Soil Are Like Medicine for Nature
Authors: Neuenkamp Lena , Maaroufi Nadia I.
Published: November 2020

Like humans, plant and animal species have a specific type of place, called an ecosystem, where they prefer to live. If the ecosystem changes too much, some species will disappear, much the same way people avoid living in the desert because it is too hot and dry. Humans modify many ecosystems, sometimes so severely that almost no plants or animals can live there anymore. To help damaged ecosystems recover, we often start by planting trees or other plants. Biologists found that mycorrhizal fungi, tiny fungi living in the soil and inside plant roots, could speed up ecosystem recovery by making plants grow back faster and stronger. In this article, we describe how the recovery of ecosystems can be enhanced by mycorrhizal fungi, and when mycorrhizal fungi are especially helpful.
Uncertainty Assessment for Determining the Discharge Coefficient C for a Multi-Opening Orifice
Authors: Mrowiec Andrzej
Published: November 2020

This article contains the results of experimental studies of a multi-opening orifice with substitute constriction factor of β = 0.5 (m = 0.25), mounted in a DN50 hydraulic measuring flume. Flow measurements were taken from a progressing turbulent flow within Reynolds numbers (Re = 4700–19,500). Based on conducted experimental data, flow characteristics, and discharge coefficient C characteristics were determined. Relative expanded uncertainty of determining a discharge coefficient C was estimated within the changes of volume flow qv from 0.35 to 0.68 dm3/s, based on rules from the GUM international standard. The value, determined from uncertainty analysis, did not exceed 1.25% within the changes of Reynolds numbers 9800 ≤ Re ≤ 19,500.
Contact Efficacy of Different Wood Ashes against Spanish Slug, Arion vulgaris (Gastropoda: Arionidae)
Authors: Laznik Žiga , Majić Ivana , Horvat Aleksander , Trdan Stanislav
Published: November 2020

The wood ash from seven plant species (sessile oak, European beech, European hornbeam, silver fir, European spruce, common alder, and Spanish chestnut) was tested against Spanish slug (Arion vulgaris) as an environmentally acceptable alternative to chemical bait pellets. We carried out laboratory and semi-field experiments to assess the contact and barrier efficacy of selected wood ash. To demonstrate the contact efficacy, slugs were rolled in the wood ash. Geochemical analysis of wood ash was carried out as well. The highest concentrations of chemical compounds SiO2, Al2O3, Fe2O3, MgO and MnO and elements Ba, Co, Cs, Ga, Cu, Pb and Zn were identified in the most effective ashes (beech, oak, fir, and spruce) compared to the ineffective ashes (hornbeam, chestnut, black ader). The concentration of cobalt was comparably higher, while the concentration of molybdenum was comparably lower in the four most effective wood ashes. The results of our studies revealed that the wood ash of oak and spruce have great contact efficacy. The oak and beech wood ash showed the strongest barrier efficacy against slugs. In the semi-field trials, only 10% of the plants treated with oak wood ash were damaged by slugs. The oak wood ash is an efficient alternative for slug control, however, further studies and biotechnical enhancement are needed.
The Exploitation of Low-Temperature Hot Water Boiler Sources with High-Temperature Heat Pump Integration
Authors: Goričanec Darko , Ivanovski Igor , Krope Jurij , Urbancl Danijela
Published: November 2020

The article presents an original and innovative technical solution for the exploitation of low-temperature excess heat from hot water boilers that use gas or liquid fuel for the needs of high-temperature heating in buildings or in industry. The primary fuel efficiency used for hot water boilers can be significantly increased by utilizing the excess low-temperature heat of flue gases that are discharged into the environment and thus also reduce CO2 emissions. Hot water systems usually operate at higher temperatures of the heating water, which is transported to the heat consumer via supply pipe, and the cooled heating water is returned to the hot water boiler via the return pipe. For the excess low-temperature heat exploitation of the flue gases from hot water boiler, it is necessary to install a condenser in the flue gas discharge pipe, where condensation of water vapour present in the flue gas heats water or a mixture of water and glycol. The heating water, which is cooled and returned from the heat consumer via the return pipe, is led to the condenser of the high-temperature heat pump, where it is preheated and then led to the hot water boiler, where it is heated to the final temperature. A computer simulation with the Aspen plus software package for the series or parallel connection of high-temperature heat pump to a hot water heating system and the economic analysis of the excess heat exploitation from the flue gases are also performed.
Hierarchical Geographic Object-Based Vegetation Type Extraction Based on Multi-Source Remote Sensing Data
Authors: Mao Xuegang , Deng Yueqing , Zhu Liang , Yao Yao
Published: November 2020

Providing vegetation type information with accurate surface distribution is one of the important tasks of remote sensing of the ecological environment. Many studies have explored ecosystem structure information at specific spatial scales based on specific remote sensing data, but it is still rare to extract vegetation information at various landscape levels from a variety of remote sensing data. Based on Gaofen-1 satellite (GF-1) Wide-Field-View (WFV) data (16 m), Ziyuan-3 satellite (ZY-3) and airborne LiDAR data, this study comparatively analyzed the four levels of vegetation information by using the geographic object-based image analysis method (GEOBIA) on the typical natural secondary forest in Northeast China. The four levels of vegetation information include vegetation/non-vegetation (L1), vegetation type (L2), forest type (L3) and canopy and canopy gap (L4). The results showed that vegetation height and density provided by airborne LiDAR data could extract vegetation features and categories more effectively than the spectral information provided by GF-1 and ZY-3 images. Only 0.5 m LiDAR data can extract four levels of vegetation information (L1–L4); and from L1 to L4, the total accuracy of the classification decreased orderly 98%, 93%, 80% and 69%. Comparing with 2.1 m ZY-3, the total classification accuracy of L1, L2 and L3 extracted by 2.1 m LiDAR data increased by 3%, 17% and 43%, respectively. At the vegetation/non-vegetation level, the spatial resolution of data plays a leading role, and the data types used at the vegetation type and forest type level become the main influencing factors. This study will provide reference for data selection and mapping strategies for hierarchical multi-scale vegetation type extraction.
The Limitations of Decision-Making
Authors: Walton Paul
Published: November 2020

In a world faced with technological, health and environmental change and uncertainty, decision-making is challenging. In addition, decision-making itself is becoming a collaborative activity between people and artificial intelligence. This paper analyses decision-making as a form of information processing, using the ideas of information evolution. Information evolution studies the effect of selection pressures and change on information processing and the consequent limitations of that processing. The analysis identifies underlying information evolution factors that affect the quality of information used throughout decision-making and, hence, affect the quality of decisions. These factors imply a set of challenges in which the pressures that drive useful trade-offs in a static environment also hinder decision-making of the required quality in times of change. The analysis indicates the information evolution characteristics of a good decision-making approach and establishes the theoretical basis for tools to demonstrate the information evolution limitations of decision-making.
Carnosine to Combat Novel Coronavirus (nCoV): Molecular Docking and Modeling to Cocrystallized Host Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) and Viral Spike Protein
Authors: Saadah Loai M. , Deiab Ghina’a I. Abu , Al-Balas Qosay , Basheti Iman A.
Published: November 2020

Aims: Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) plays an important role in the entry of coronaviruses into host cells. The current paper described how carnosine, a naturally occurring supplement, can be an effective drug candidate for coronavirus disease (COVID-19) on the basis of molecular docking and modeling to host ACE2 cocrystallized with nCoV spike protein. Methods: First, the starting point was ACE2 inhibitors and their structure–activity relationship (SAR). Next, chemical similarity (or diversity) and PubMed searches made it possible to repurpose and assess approved or experimental drugs for COVID-19. Parallel, at all stages, the authors performed bioactivity scoring to assess potential repurposed inhibitors at ACE2. Finally, investigators performed molecular docking and modeling of the identified drug candidate to host ACE2 with nCoV spike protein. Results: Carnosine emerged as the best-known drug candidate to match ACE2 inhibitor structure. Preliminary docking was more optimal to ACE2 than the known typical angiotensin-converting enzyme 1 (ACE1) inhibitor (enalapril) and quite comparable to known or presumed ACE2 inhibitors. Viral spike protein elements binding to ACE2 were retained in the best carnosine pose in SwissDock at 1.75 Angstroms. Out of the three main areas of attachment expected to the protein–protein structure, carnosine bound with higher affinity to two compared to the known ACE2 active site. LibDock score was 92.40 for site 3, 90.88 for site 1, and inside the active site 85.49. Conclusion: Carnosine has promising inhibitory interactions with host ACE2 and nCoV spike protein and hence could offer a potential mitigating effect against the current COVID-19 pandemic.
Fiber-Coupled Quartz-Enhanced Photoacoustic Spectroscopy System for Methane and Ethane Monitoring in the Near-Infrared Spectral Range
Authors: Menduni Giansergio , Sgobba Fabrizio , Russo Stefano Dello , Ranieri Ada Cristina , Sampaolo Angelo , Patimisco Pietro , Giglio Marilena , Passaro Vittorio M.N. , Csutak Sebastian , Assante Dario , Ranieri Ezio , Geoffrion Eric , Spagnolo Vincenzo
Published: November 2020

We report on a fiber-coupled, quartz-enhanced photoacoustic spectroscopy (QEPAS) near-IR sensor for sequential detection of methane (CH4 or C1) and ethane (C2H6 or C2) in air. With the aim of developing a lightweight, compact, low-power-consumption sensor suitable for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs)-empowered environmental monitoring, an all-fiber configuration was designed and realized. Two laser diodes emitting at 1653.7 nm and 1684 nm for CH4 and C2H6 detection, respectively, were fiber-combined and fiber-coupled to the collimator port of the acoustic detection module. No cross talk between methane and ethane QEPAS signal was observed, and the related peak signals were well resolved. The QEPAS sensor was calibrated using gas samples generated from certified concentrations of 1% CH4 in N2 and 1% C2H6 in N2. At a lock-in integration time of 100 ms, minimum detection limits of 0.76 ppm and 34 ppm for methane and ethane were achieved, respectively. The relaxation rate of CH4 in standard air has been investigated considering the effects of H2O, N2 and O2 molecules. No influence on the CH4 QEPAS signal is expected when the water vapor concentration level present in air varies in the range 0.6–3%.