bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nociplastic Pain Criteria or Recognition of Central Sensitization? Pain Phenotyping in the Past, Present and Future
Authors: Nijs Jo , Lahousse Astrid , Kapreli Eleni , Bilika Paraskevi , Saraçoğlu İsmail , Malfliet Anneleen , Coppieters Iris , De Baets Liesbet , Leysen Laurence , Roose Eva , Clark Jacqui , Voogt Lennard , Huysmans Eva
Published: July 2021

Recently, the International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) released clinical criteria and a grading system for nociplastic pain affecting the musculoskeletal system. These criteria replaced the 2014 clinical criteria for predominant central sensitization (CS) pain and accounted for clinicians’ need to identify (early) and correctly classify patients having chronic pain according to the pain phenotype. Still, clinicians and researchers can become confused by the multitude of terms and the variety of clinical criteria available. Therefore, this paper aims at (1) providing an overview of what preceded the IASP criteria for nociplastic pain (‘the past’); (2) explaining the new IASP criteria for nociplastic pain in comparison with the 2014 clinical criteria for predominant CS pain (‘the present’); and (3) highlighting key areas for future implementation and research work in this area (‘the future’). It is explained that the 2021 IASP clinical criteria for nociplastic pain are in line with the 2014 clinical criteria for predominant CS pain but are more robust, comprehensive, better developed and hold more potential. Therefore, the 2021 IASP clinical criteria for nociplastic pain are important steps towards precision pain medicine, yet studies examining the clinimetric and psychometric properties of the criteria are urgently needed.
Ultrasound Patterns in the First Trimester Diagnosis of Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Herghelegiu Catalin G. , Panaitescu Anca Maria , Duta Simona , Vayna Ana Maria , Ciobanu Anca Marina , Bulescu Cristian , Ioan Raluca Gabriela , Neacsu Adrian , Gica Nicolae , Veduta Alina
Published: July 2021

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the most common birth defect, with a reported prevalence of 5–12 per 1000 live births. Very recently, the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine published a guideline recommending the use of the four-chamber and the three-vessel and trachea views to screen for CHD in the first trimester of pregnancy. Our aim is to present abnormal image patterns that are seen in the four-chamber, three-vessel, and trachea views of the fetal heart in the first trimester and to describe their association with specific CHD types. We used a total of 29 cases of CHD from the archives of Filantropia Hospital and the Maternal and Child Health Institute (INSMC) fetal medicine units. We selected cases with a clear and well-documented diagnosis of the CHD type. We identified a series of repeating color doppler flow patterns seen in the four-chamber, three-vessel, and trachea views of the studied cases. Our observations could be developed into a diagnosis algorithm to orientate the examiner to the most likely type of CHD in individual cases.
Chronic Critical Illness Elicits a Unique Circulating Leukocyte Transcriptome in Sepsis Survivors
Authors: Darden Dijoia B. , Ghita Gabriela L. , Wang Zhongkai , Stortz Julie A. , Lopez Maria-Cecilia , Cox Michael C. , Hawkins Russell B. , Rincon Jaimar C. , Kelly Lauren S. , Fenner Brittany P. , Ozrazgat-Baslanti Tezcan , Leeuwenburgh Christiaan , Bihorac Azra , Loftus Tyler J. , Moore Frederick A. , Brakenridge Scott C. , Baker Henry V. , Bacher Rhonda , Mohr Alicia M. , Moldawer Lyle L. , Efron Philip A.
Published: July 2021

Surgical sepsis has evolved into two major subpopulations: patients who rapidly recover, and those who develop chronic critical illness (CCI). Our primary aim was to determine whether CCI sepsis survivors manifest unique blood leukocyte transcriptomes in late sepsis that differ from transcriptomes among sepsis survivors with rapid recovery. In a prospective cohort study of surgical ICU patients, genome-wide expression analysis was conducted on total leukocytes in human whole blood collected on days 1 and 14 from sepsis survivors who rapidly recovered or developed CCI, defined as ICU length of stay ≥ 14 days with persistent organ dysfunction. Both sepsis patients who developed CCI and those who rapidly recovered exhibited marked changes in genome-wide expression at day 1 which remained abnormal through day 14. Although summary changes in gene expression were similar between CCI patients and subjects who rapidly recovered, CCI patients exhibited differential expression of 185 unique genes compared with rapid recovery patients at day 14 (p < 0.001). The transcriptomic patterns in sepsis survivors reveal an ongoing immune dyscrasia at the level of the blood leukocyte transcriptome, consistent with persistent inflammation and immune suppression. Furthermore, the findings highlight important genes that could compose a prognostic transcriptomic metric or serve as therapeutic targets among sepsis patients that develop CCI.
The Effect of Ejaculatory Abstinence Interval on Sperm Parameters and Clinical Outcome of ART. A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Sokol Piotr , Drakopoulos Panagiotis , Polyzos Nikolaos P.
Published: July 2021

Since the publication of the first edition of the WHO (World Health Organization) Laboratory Manual for the examination of Human Semen in 1980, the reference values of sperm parameters have been updated on four occasions. Currently and globally, most of the laboratories analyzing semen samples use the latest, 5th edition of the manual that recommends ejaculatory abstinence from two to seven days before producing the sample for examination. While this standardized interval of time facilitates the interpretation of the results and research, no solid evidence exists to support the WHO-recommended abstinence time for a semen analysis in order to optimize clinical outcomes after assisted reproduction. Most of the studies refer to different clinical outcomes, different groups of patients and different editions of the WHO Laboratory Manual, including heterogeneous intervals of abstinence or sperm parameters. The aim of the current systematic review was to evaluate available evidence correlating ejaculatory abstinence time with clinical outcomes and sperm parameters analyzed according to the last edition of the World Health Organization Laboratory Manual reference values in different male populations. The results from the included studies indicate that WHO abstinence recommendations may need revision, given that a shorter ejaculatory abstinence interval appears to be associated with improved sperm parameters, such as sperm DNA fragmentation, progressive motility or morphology, while evidence suggests a potential increase in embryo euploidy rates and pregnancy outcomes.
Characterization of a Biofilm Bioreactor Designed for the Single-Step Production of Aerial Conidia and Oosporein by Beauveria bassiana PQ2
Authors: Lara-Juache Héctor Raziel , Ávila-Hernández José Guadalupe , Rodríguez-Durán Luis Víctor , Michel Mariela Ramona , Wong-Paz Jorge Enrique , Muñiz-Márquez Diana Beatriz , Veana Fabiola , Aguilar-Zárate Mayra , Ascacio-Valdés Juan Alberto , Aguilar-Zárate Pedro
Published: July 2021

Beauveria bassiana is an entomopathogenic fungus that is used for the biological control of different agricultural pest insects. B. bassiana is traditionally cultivated in submerged fermentation and solid-state fermentation systems to obtain secondary metabolites with antifungal activity and infective spores. This work presents the design and characterization of a new laboratory-scale biofilm bioreactor for the simultaneous production of oosporein and aerial conidia by B. bassiana PQ2. The reactor was built with materials available in a conventional laboratory. KLa was determined at different air flows (1.5–2.5 L/min) by two different methods in the liquid phase and in the exhaust gases. The obtained values showed that an air flow of 2.5 L/min is sufficient to ensure adequate aeration to produce aerial conidia and secondary metabolites by B. bassiana. Under the conditions studied, a concentration of 183 mg oosporein per liter and 1.24 × 109 spores per gram of support was obtained at 168 h of culture. These results indicate that the biofilm bioreactor represents a viable alternative for the production of products for biological control from B. bassiana.
Special Issue: Fungal Nanotechnology
Authors: Abd-Elsalam Kamel A.
Published: July 2021

Fungal nanotechnology (FN) or myconanotechnology is a novel word which was originally introduced in 2009 by Rai M [...]
Risk Factors in Third and Fourth Degree Perineal Tears in Women in a Tertiary Centre: An Observational Ambispective Cohort Study
Authors: Barca Juan A. , Bravo Coral , Pintado-Recarte Maria P. , Cueto-Hernández Ignacio , Ruiz-Labarta Javier , Cuñarro Yolanda , Buján Julia , Alvarez-Mon Melchor , Ortega Miguel A. , De León-Luis Juan A.
Published: July 2021

Objectives: To analyze the main risk factors associated with third and fourth degree postpartum perineal tears in women attended to in our obstetrics service. Methods: An observational, retrospective, hospital cohort study was carried out in women whose deliveries were attended to in the obstetrics service of the Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón de Madrid (HGUGM), during the period from January 2010 to April 2017. Results: During the study period, a total of 33,026 patients were included in the study. For maternal variables, the associated increased risk of severe perineal tearing in nulliparous women is OR = 3.48, for induced labor OR = 1.29, and for instrumental delivery by forceps OR = 4.52 or spatulas OR = 4.35; for the obstetric variable of episiotomy, it is OR = 3.41. For the neonatal variables, the weight of the newborns has a directly proportional relationship with the risk of severe tears, and for birth weights of 3000 g (OR = 2.41), 3500 g (OR = 1.97), and 4000 g (OR = 2.17), statistically significant differences were found in each of the groups (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Primiparity, induction of labor, episiotomy, instrumental delivery with forceps or spatula, and a birth weight of 3000 g or more are significantly associated with an increased risk of third and fourth degree perineal tears.
Multiple Single Nucleotide Polymorphism Testing Improves the Prediction of Diabetic Retinopathy Risk with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Hsiao Yu-Ting , Shen Feng-Chih , Weng Shao-Wen , Wang Pei-Wen , Chen Yung-Jen , Lee Jong-Jer
Published: July 2021

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the most frequent causes of irreversible blindness, thus prevention and early detection of DR is crucial. The purpose of this study is to identify genetic determinants of DR in individuals with type 2 diabetic mellitus (T2DM). A total of 551 T2DM patients (254 with DR, 297 without DR) were included in this cross-sectional research. Thirteen T2DM-related single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were utilized for constructing genetic risk prediction model. With logistic regression analysis, genetic variations of the FTO (rs8050136) and PSMD6 (rs831571) polymorphisms were independently associated with a higher risk of DR. The area under the curve (AUC) calculated on known nongenetic risk variables was 0.704. Based on the five SNPs with the highest odds ratio (OR), the combined nongenetic and genetic prediction model improved the AUC to 0.722. The discriminative accuracy of our 5-SNP combined risk prediction model increased in patients who had more severe microalbuminuria (AUC = 0.731) or poor glycemic control (AUC = 0.746). In conclusion, we found a novel association for increased risk of DR at two T2DM-associated genetic loci, FTO (rs8050136) and PSMD6 (rs831571). Our predictive risk model presents new insights in DR development, which may assist in enabling timely intervention in reducing blindness in diabetic patients.
Landscape Pattern Evolution and Its Response to Human Disturbance in a Newly Metropolitan Area: A Case Study in Jin-Yi Metropolitan Area
Authors: Wu Tao , Zha Peipei , Yu Mengjie , Jiang Guojun , Zhang Jianzhen , You Qinglong , Xie Xuefeng
Published: July 2021

The impact of human interference on the ecological environment has attracted a significant amount of attention. In this study, hemeroby index (HI) was constructed to quantify the degree of human disturbance, and the relationship between HI and landscape pattern index was explored in a newly metropolitan area. The main objectives of this study were to analyze the temporal and spatial characteristics of landscape pattern and human disturbance in the process of urbanization of county-level cities in China, and to explore the relationship between the landscape pattern index and human disturbance under different disturbance intensity. The conclusions showed that: (1) the degree of human interference in the new area is on the rise, with a slow increase from 1980 to 2010, but since 2010, human interference has increased significantly. The diffusion of human disturbance intensity has obvious spatial directivity, spreading from east to west. (2) The impact of human activities on landscape pattern is shown as increasing fragmentation and increasing number of landscape types. With the enhancement of human activities, the heterogeneity and fragmentation of landscape types in the region reach their highest points. With the continuous increase of human activities, on a certain scale, the landscape types will gradually tend to be the same, and the same type of landscape patches will become one piece and tend to be integrated. This phenomenon is particularly obvious at the patch type level. (3) There is an inflection point value between human disturbance and landscape pattern index in landscape or patch type. On both sides of the inflection point value, the landscape pattern parameters and human disturbance have obvious opposite trends. (4) In the low interference range (1 ≤ HI < 4), with the increase of human interference, more heterogeneous structures (shown in the increase of SHDI) are brought to the landscape, there is more landscape fragmentation (shown in the decrease of LPI, CONTRACT, and AI), and the patch shape and landscape structure tend to be complex (shown in the increase of LSI, SQP, ED, and other indexes); in the high interference range (4 ≤ HI ≤ 7), due to human intervention, the increase of LPI, contract, and AI indicates that intense human activities turn the landscape into a broken and scattered structure and tend to be consistent and homogeneous. LSI, SQP, and ED were negatively correlated with HI at this stage, indicating that with the enhancement of human activities, the complexity of landscape shape decreased.
Intracellular Development of Resident Cardiac Stem Cells: An Overlooked Phenomenon in Myocardial Self-Renewal and Regeneration
Authors: Belostotskaya Galina , Sonin Dmitry , Galagudza Michael
Published: July 2021

At present, the approaches aimed at increasing myocardial regeneration after infarction are not available. The key question is the identity of cells capable of producing functional cardiac myocytes (CMs), replenishing those lost during ischemia. With identification of resident cardiac stem cells (CSCs), it has been supposed that this cell population may be crucial for myocardial self-renewal and regeneration. In the last few years, the focus has been shifted towards another concept, implying that new CMs are produced by dedifferentiation and proliferation of mature CMs. The observation that CSCs can undergo development inside immature cardiac cells by formation of “cell-in-cell structures” (CICSs) has enabled us to conclude that encapsulated CICSs are implicated in mammalian cardiomyogenesis over the entire lifespan. Earlier we demonstrated that new CMs are produced through formation of CSC-derived transitory amplifying cells (TACs) either in the CM colonies or inside encapsulated CICSs. In this study, we described the phenomenon of CSC penetration into mature CMs, resulting in the formation of vacuole-like CICSs (or non-encapsulated CICSs) containing proliferating CSCs with subsequent differentiation of CSC progeny into TACs and their release. In addition, we compared the phenotypes of TACs derived from encapsulated and non-encapsulated CICSs developing in immature and mature CMs, respectively.
First-Trimester Maternal Folic Acid Supplementation Modifies the Effects of Risk Factors Exposures on Congenital Heart Disease in Offspring
Authors: Qu Yanji , Lin Shao , Bloom Michael S. , Wang Ximeng , Nie Zhiqiang , Ou Yanqiu , Mai Jinzhuang , Gao Xiangmin , Wu Yong , Chen Jimei , Justino John , Tan Hongzhuan , Zhuang Jian , Liu Xiaoqing
Published: July 2021

This study aimed to examine effect modification of maternal risk factor exposures and congenital heart disease (CHD) by maternal folic acid supplementation (FAS)/non-FAS. We included 8379 CHD cases and 6918 CHD-free controls from 40 clinical centers in Guangdong Province, Southern China, 2004–2016. Controls were randomly chosen from malformation-free fetuses and infants and frequency matched to the echocardiogram-confirmed cases by enrollment hospital and year of birth. We used multiple regression models to evaluate interactions between FAS/non-FAS and risk factors on CHDs and major CHD categories, adjusted for confounding variables. We detected statistically significant additive and multiplicative interactions between maternal FAS/non-FAS and first-trimester fever, viral infection, and threatened abortion on CHDs. An additive interaction on CHDs was also identified between non-FAS and living in a newly renovated home. We observed a statistically significant dose-response relationship between non-FAS and a greater number of maternal risk factors on CHDs. Non-FAS and maternal risk factors interacted additively on multiple critical CHDs, conotruncal defects, and right ventricular outflow tract obstruction. Maternal risk factor exposures may have differential associations with CHD risk in offspring, according to FAS. These findings may inform the design of targeted interventions to prevent CHDs in highly susceptible population groups.
Relationship between Skin Temperature Variation and Muscle Damage Markers after a Marathon Performed in a Hot Environmental Condition
Authors: Rojas-Valverde Daniel , Gutiérrez-Vargas Randall , Sánchez-Ureña Braulio , Gutiérrez-Vargas Juan Carlos , Priego-Quesada Jose I.
Published: July 2021

This study aimed to assess the effect of a marathon running at a hot environmental temperature on the baseline skin temperature (Tsk) of the posterior day and to analyze the relationship between Tsk response and muscle damage markers variation. The Tsk, creatine kinase, and lactate dehydrogenase of 16 marathon runners were assessed four times before (15 days and 45 min) and after (24 h and 6 days) a marathon in a hot environment (thermal stress index = 28.3 ± 3.3 °C and humidity ~81%). The Tsk of thirteen different body regions of both right and left lower limbs were analyzed. Higher values after the marathon were observed than 45 min before in creatine kinase (174.3 ± 136.4 UI/L < 1159.7 ± 699.7 UI/L, p < 0.01 and large effect size) and lactate dehydrogenase (362.6 ± 99.9 UI/L < 438 ± 115.5 UI/L, p = 0.02 and moderate effect size). Generally, Tsk was higher the day after the marathon than at the other three moments (e.g., rectus femoris region, 6 days before vs. the day after, 95% confidence interval of the difference (0.3, 1.6 °C), p = 0.04 and large effect size). No relationship or correlation was observed between the variation of Tsk and muscle damage markers (p > 0.05). In conclusion, performing a marathon in a hot environmental condition results in a higher Tsk the day after the marathon. This increase in Tsk could be because of the heat generated by the marathon and its subsequent physiological processes (e.g., increase in endothelial nitric oxide, glycogen resynthesis, or increase of systemic hormones), which would be reflected in the Tsk due to the peripheral vasodilation promoted by the hot environment. However, among these processes, muscle damage does not seem to be of great importance due to the lack of an observed relationship between Tsk and muscle damage markers.
The Study of Magnetic Properties for Non-Magnetic Ions Doped BiFeO3
Authors: Li Yongtao , Liu Liqing , Wang Dehao , Zhang Hongguang , He Xuemin , Li Qi
Published: July 2021

BiFeO3 is considered as a single phase multiferroic. However, its magnetism is very weak. We study the magnetic properties of BiFeO3 by Cu and (Cu, Zn). Polycrystalline samples Bi(Fe0.95Cu0.05)O3 and BiFe0.95(Zn0.025Cu0.025)O3 are prepared by the sol-gel method. The magnetic properties of BiFe0.95(Zn0.025Cu0.025)O3 are greater than that of BiFeO3 and Bi(Fe0.95Cu0.05)O3. The analyses of X-ray absorption fine structure data show that the doped Cu atoms well occupy the sites of the Fe atoms. X-ray absorption near edge spectra data confirm that the valence state of Fe ions does not change. Cu and Zn metal ion co-doping has no impact on the local structure of the Fe and Bi atoms. The modification of magnetism by doping Zn can be understood by the view of the occupation site of non-magnetically active Zn2+.
Effects of Thermal Conductive Materials on the Freeze-Thaw Resistance of Concrete
Authors: Woo Byeong-Hun , Yoo Dong-Ho , Kim Seong-Soo , Lee Jeong-Bae , Ryou Jae-Suk , Kim Hong-Gi
Published: July 2021

To solve the problem of black ice, many studies are being carried out. The key in recent days is enhancing the thermal conductivity of concrete. In this study, to improve the thermal conductivity, silicon carbide was used to substitute 50% and 100% of the fine aggregate. In addition, steel fiber is not only for enhancing the mechanical properties but could enhance thermal conductive material. Hence, the arched-type steel fiber was used up to a 1% volume fraction in this study. Furthermore, graphite was used for 5% of the volume fraction for enhancing the thermal conductivity. However, thermal damage would occur due to the difference in thermal conductivity between materials. Therefore, the thermal durability must be verified first. The target application of the concrete in this study was its use as road paving material. To evaluate the thermal durability, freeze–thaw and rapid cyclic thermal attacks were performed. The thermal conductivity of the specimens was increased with the increase in thermal conductive materials. Graphite has already been reported to have a negative effect on mechanical properties, and the results showed that this was the case. However, the steel fiber compensated for the negative effect of graphite, and the silicon carbide provided a filler effect. Graphite also had a negative effect on the freeze–thaw and rapid cyclic thermal attack, but the steel fiber compensated for the reduction in thermal durability. The silicon carbide also helped to improve the thermal durability in the same way as steel fiber. Comprehensively, the steel fiber enhanced all of the properties of the tests. Using 100% silicon carbide was considered the acceptable range, but 50% of silicon carbide was the best. Graphite decreased all the properties except for the thermal conductivity. Therefore, the content of graphite or using other conductive materials used should be carefully considered in further studies.
Distributed Feedback Laser Based on Tunable Photonic Hypercrystal
Authors: Janaszek Bartosz , Szczepański Paweł
Published: July 2021

In this work, we investigate the generation of light in a distributed feedback (DFB) laser composed of periodically arranged layers of hyperbolic medium and active material forming a 1D photonic hypercrystal (PHC). The scope of our study covers the analysis of laser action in the presence of different types of dispersion that are achievable in a hyperbolic medium. Using the example of a PHC structure consisting of graphene-based hyperbolic medium, we demonstrate the possibility of controlling laser action by tuning effective dispersion. Our analysis reveals the possibility of obtaining a single-frequency generation with high side-mode suppression and controllable wavelength of operation. Moreover, we present a new mechanism for the modulation of laser amplitude arising from voltage-controllable dispersion of hyperbolic medium.
Fatigue Testing of Wearable Sensing Technologies: Issues and Opportunities
Authors: Persons Andrea Karen , Ball John E. , Freeman Charles , Macias David M. , Simpson Chartrisa LaShan , Smith Brian K. , Burch V. Reuben F.
Published: July 2021

Standards for the fatigue testing of wearable sensing technologies are lacking. The majority of published fatigue tests for wearable sensors are performed on proof-of-concept stretch sensors fabricated from a variety of materials. Due to their flexibility and stretchability, polymers are often used in the fabrication of wearable sensors. Other materials, including textiles, carbon nanotubes, graphene, and conductive metals or inks, may be used in conjunction with polymers to fabricate wearable sensors. Depending on the combination of the materials used, the fatigue behaviors of wearable sensors can vary. Additionally, fatigue testing methodologies for the sensors also vary, with most tests focusing only on the low-cycle fatigue (LCF) regime, and few sensors are cycled until failure or runout are achieved. Fatigue life predictions of wearable sensors are also lacking. These issues make direct comparisons of wearable sensors difficult. To facilitate direct comparisons of wearable sensors and to move proof-of-concept sensors from “bench to bedside”, fatigue testing standards should be established. Further, both high-cycle fatigue (HCF) and failure data are needed to determine the appropriateness in the use, modification, development, and validation of fatigue life prediction models and to further the understanding of how cracks initiate and propagate in wearable sensing technologies.
Evaluating the Application of CSR in the High-Tech Industry during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Chang Shih-Chia , Lu Ming-Tsang , Chen Mei-Jen , Huang Li-Hua
Published: July 2021

Since its conception, corporate social responsibility (CSR) has seen continuous growth and become a highly discussed issue. In this paper, we propose an evaluation of how the COVID-19 pandemic could impact CSR applications. The pandemic has provided an opportunity for commerce to move on to being more authentic, to offer genuine CSR applications and to contribute toward dealing with pressing environmental and social issues. Hence, this purpose of the research is to obtain a better understanding of whether the integration of environment, social, corporate governance and economic (ESGE) aspects into CSR strategies can support sustainable development toward more sustainable growth during the COVID-19 pandemic. To meet this challenge, we offer a mixture multiple-criteria decision making (MCDM) model. Very few empirical studies have discussed CSR in the high-tech industry and proposed strategies and planning for ESGE efficiency. Using interviews with experts and a literature review, we identify the elements related to actual practices of the high-tech industry’s appraisal and the integrated MCDM techniques to suggest efficient enhancement models. The best worst method (BWM) and modified VIKOR are implemented to estimate the strategic weights and the gaps of the aspiration value. The results are valuable for classifying the priorities of CSR and are therefore helpful for those who are associated with high-tech industry management, practices and implementation.
Importance of a Follow-Up Ultrasound Protocol in Monitoring Posttraumatic Spleen Complications in Children Treated with a Non-Operative Management
Authors: Djordjevic Ivona , Zivanovic Dragoljub , Budic Ivana , Kostic Ana , Djeric Danijela
Published: July 2021

Background and objectives: For the last three decades, non-operative management (NOM) has been the standard in the treatment of clinically stable patients with blunt spleen injury, with a success rate of up to 95%. However, there are no prospective issues in the literature dealing with the incidence and type of splenic complications after NOM. Materials and methods: This study analyzed 76 pediatric patients, up to the age of 18, with blunt splenic injury who were treated non-operatively. All patients were included in a posttraumatic follow-up protocol with ultrasound examinations 4 and 12 weeks after injury. Results: The mean age of the children was 9.58 ± 3.97 years (range 1.98 to 17.75 years), with no statistically significant difference between the genders. The severity of the injury was determined according to the American Association for Surgery of Trauma (AAST) classification: 7 patients had grade I injuries (89.21%), 21 patients had grade II injuries (27.63%), 33 patients had grade III injuries (43.42%), and 15 patients had grade IV injuries (19.73%). The majority of the injuries were so-called high-energy ones, which were recorded in 45 patients (59.21%). According to a previously created posttraumatic follow-up protocol, complications were detected in 16 patients (21.05%). Hematomas had the highest incidence and were detected in 11 patients (14.47%), while pseudocysts were detected in 3 (3.94%), and a splenic abscess and pseudoaneurysm were detected in 1 patient (1.31%), respectively. The complications were in a direct correlation with injury grade: seven occurred in patients with grade IV injuries (9.21%), five occurred in children with grade III injuries (6.57%), three occurred in patients with grade II injuries (3.94%), and one occurred in a patient with a grade I injury (1.31%). Conclusion: Based on the severity of the spleen injury, it is difficult to predict the further course of developing complications, but complications are more common in high-grade injuries. The implementation of a follow-up ultrasound protocol is mandatory in all patients with NOM of spleen injuries for the early detection of potentially dangerous and fatal complications.
Headache Associated with Sexual Activity—A Narrative Review of Literature
Authors: Ściślicki Piotr , Sztuba Karolina , Klimkowicz-Mrowiec Aleksandra , Gorzkowska Agnieszka
Published: July 2021

Headache associated with sexual activity (HAWSA) has accompanied humanity since ancient times. However, it is only since the 1970s that it has become the subject of more extensive and detailed scientific interest. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the development of the concept of HAWSA, its clinical presentation, etiopathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment especially from the research perspective of the last 20 years. Primary HAWSA is a benign condition, whose etiology is unknown; however, at the first occurrence of headache associated with sexual activity, it is necessary to exclude conditions that are usually immediately life-threatening. Migraine, hypnic headache or hemicrania continua have been reported to co-occur with HAWSA, but their common pathophysiologic basis is still unknown. Recent advances in the treatment of HAWSA include the introduction of topiramate, progesterone, and treatments such as greater occipital nerve injection, arterial embolization, and manual therapy. Whether these new therapeutic options will stand the test of time remains to be seen.
Direct Arylation in the Presence of Palladium Pincer Complexes
Authors: Urgoitia Garazi , Herrero Maria Teresa , Churruca Fátima , Conde Nerea , SanMartin Raul
Published: July 2021

Direct arylation is an atom-economical alternative to more established procedures such as Stille, Suzuki or Negishi arylation reactions. In comparison with other palladium sources and ligands, the use of palladium pincer complexes as catalysts or pre-catalysts for direct arylation has resulted in improved efficiency, higher reaction yields, and advantageous reaction conditions. In addition to a revision of the literature concerning intra- and intermolecular direct arylation reactions performed in the presence of palladium pincer complexes, the role of these remarkably active catalysts will also be discussed.
Structural, Mechanistic, and Functional Insights into an Arthrobacter nicotinovorans Molybdenum Hydroxylase Involved in Nicotine Degradation
Authors: Wang Lei , Mu Xia , Li Wenjin , Xu Qin , Xu Ping , Zhang Liyun , Zhang Yuebin , Wu Geng
Published: July 2021

Arthrobacter nicotinovorans decomposes nicotine through the pyridine pathway. 6-hydroxypseudooxynicotine 2-oxidoreductase (also named ketone dehydrogenase, Kdh) is an important enzyme in nicotine degradation pathway of A. nicotinovorans, and is responsible for the second hydroxylation of nicotine. Kdh belongs to the molybdenum hydroxylase family, and catalyzes the oxidation of 6-hydroxy-pseudooxynicotine (6-HPON) to 2,6-dihydroxy-pseudooxynicotine (2,6-DHPON). We determined the crystal structure of the Kdh holoenzyme from A. nicotinovorans, with its three subunits KdhL, KdhM, and KdhS, and their associated cofactors molybdopterin cytosine dinucleotide (MCD), two iron-sulfur clusters (Fe2S2), and flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD), respectively. In addition, we obtained a structural model of the substrate 6-HPON-bound Kdh through molecular docking, and performed molecular dynamics (MD) and quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics (QM/MM) calculations to unveil the catalytic mechanism of Kdh. The residues Glu345, Try551, and Glu748 of KdhL were found to participate in substrate binding, and Phe269 and Arg383 of KdhL were found to contribute to stabilize the MCD conformation. Furthermore, site-directed mutagenesis and enzymatic activity assays were performed to support our structural and computational results, which also revealed a trend of increasing catalytic efficiency with the increase in the buffer pH. Lastly, our electrochemical results demonstrated electron transfer among the various cofactors of Kdh. Therefore, our work provides a comprehensive structural, mechanistic, and functional study on the molybdenum hydroxylase Kdh in the nicotine degradation pathway of A. nicotinovorans.
NH3 Sensor Based on rGO-PANI Composite with Improved Sensitivity
Authors: Hadano Fabio Seiti , Gavim Anderson Emanuel Ximim , Stefanelo Josiani Cristina , Gusso Sara Luiza , Macedo Andreia Gerniski , Rodrigues Paula Cristina , Mohd Yusoff Abd. Rashid bin , Schneider Fabio Kurt , Deus Jeferson Ferreira de , José da Silva Wilson
Published: July 2021

This work reports on a reduced graphene oxide and poly(aniline) composite (rGO-PANI), with rGO clusters inserted between PANI chains. These clusters were formed due the plasticizing effect of N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) solvent, which was added during the synthesis. Further, this composite was processed as thin film onto an interdigitated electrode array and used as the sensitive layer for ammonia gas, presenting sensitivity of 250% at 100 ppm, a response time of 97 s, and a lowest detection limit of 5 ppm. The PANI deprotonation process, upon exposure to NH3, rGO, also contributed by improving the sensitivity due its higher surface area and the presence of carboxylic acids. This allowed for the interaction between the hydrogen of NH3 (nucleophilic character) and the -COOH groups (electrophilic character) from the rGO surface, thereby introducing a promising sensing composite for amine-based gases.
Intergroup Dialogues in the Landscape of Digital Societies: How Does the Dialogical Self Affect Intercultural Relations in Online Contexts?
Authors: Imperato Chiara , Mancini Tiziana
Published: July 2021

The effects of intergroup dialogues on intercultural relations in digital societies and the growing conflict, inflammatory and hate speech phenomena characterizing these environments are receiving increasing attention in socio-psychological studies. Based on Allport’s contact theory, scholars have shown that online intercultural contact reduces ethnic prejudice and discrimination, although it is not yet clear when and how this occurs. By analyzing the role of the Dialogical Self in online intercultural dialogues, we aim to understand how individuals position themselves and others at three levels of inclusiveness—personal, social, and human—and how this process is associated with attitudes towards the interlocutor, intergroup bias and prejudice, whilst also considering the inclusion of the Other in the Self and ethnic/racial identity. An experimental procedure was administered via the Qualtrics platform, and data were collected among 118 undergraduate Italian students through an anonymous questionnaire. From ANOVA and moderation analysis, it emerged that the social level of inclusiveness was positively associated with ethnic/racial identity and intergroup bias. Furthermore, the human level of inclusiveness was associated with the inclusion of the Other in the Self and ethnic/racial identity, and unexpectedly, also with intergroup bias. We conclude that when people interact online as “human beings”, the positive effect of online dialogue fails, hindering the differentiation processes necessary to define one’s own and the interlocutor’s identities. We discuss the effects of intercultural dialogue in the landscape of digital societies and the relevance of our findings for theory, research and practice.
Associations of Classroom Design and Classroom-Based Physical Activity with Behavioral and Emotional Engagement among Primary School Students
Authors: Hartikainen Jani , Poikkeus Anna-Maija , Haapala Eero A. , Sääkslahti Arja , Finni Taija
Published: July 2021

Educational reforms worldwide have resulted in schools increasingly incorporating open and flexible classroom designs. Open learning spaces may contribute to a student’s behavioral and emotional school engagement directly and by facilitating classroom-based physical activity (CPA). We investigated the associations between accelerometer-assessed CPA and student ratings of task-focused behavior and attitude towards school as indicators for behavioral and emotional engagement, respectively, with the associations of gender, grade, and classroom design on CPA among 206 3rd and 5th grade students in open learning spaces and conventional classrooms. Structural equation modelling showed open classroom design to be directly associated with better attitude towards school (B = −0.336; CI95% −0.616 to −0.055), but not with task-focused behavior. The relationship between task-focused behavior and attitude towards school was statistically significant (B = 0.188; 95%CI 0.068 to 0.031). CPA was not associated with task-focused behavior and attitude towards school, while classroom design (B = 1.818; 95%CI 1.101 to 2.536), gender (B = 1.732; 95%CI 20 1.065 to 2.398), and grade (B = 1.560; 95%CI 0.893 to 2.227) were statistically significantly associated with CPA. Open learning spaces seem to be associated with better emotional engagement, which is associated with behavioral engagement. Longitudinal studies investigating associations of open learning spaces and CPA on students’ behavioral, emotional, and cognitive engagement concurrently are warranted.
CHARACTERIZATION AND COMPARISON OF MECHANICAL PROPERTIES AND CORROSION RESISTANCE OF TI-10MO-20NB, TI-6AL-4V AND TI-CP ALLOYS FOR BIOMEDICAL APPLICATIONS
Authors: Vieira Patrick de Lima , Neuba Lucas de Mendonça , Pereira Junio Raí Felipe , Monteiro Sergio Neves
Published: July 2021

One of the main biomedical material for implants, the Ti-6Al-4V alloy, over time generates oxides of V and Al that accumulate in the body and cause cytotoxic effects. Researches have been making an effort for developing an alternative β metastable Ti alloy that combines corrosion resistance, biocompatibility and good mechanical properties. In view of this scenario, the present work aims to characterize a Ti-10Mo-20Nb alloy and compare the results obtained with a commercial purity Ti alloy and Ti-6Al-4V alloy. Ti-10Mo-20Nb samples were subjected to heat treatment at 1000°C, after that they were water quenched. A hot swagging process at 900°C was applied resulting on a cross section reduction of 80%. The alloy was characterized by optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Vickers microhardness and the linear polarization technique. For the Ti-10Mo-20Nb alloy the ratio between the hardness and the elastic modulus was of 3.22, the hardness value of 238 HV and the elastic modulus of 74 GPa. The Ti-10Mo-20Nb alloy showed a better mechanical as well as biological compatibility due to the non-cytotoxic of its alloy elements, Mo and NB, in spite of the lower corrosion resistance value when compared to other alloys, it is still possessing reasonable resistance to corrosion and develops a remarkable passivation layer. As such Ti-10Mo-20Nb is a promising alternative for biomedical applications due to its superior mechanical properties and better biocompatibility with human bone.
PROBLEMAS DE OTIMIZAÇÃO E MUDANÇA DE QUADROS EM UM TRABALHO COM PARTICIPANTES DE UM CURSO DE ENGENHARIA
Authors: Siqueira Erique , Elisa Esteves Lopes Galvão Maria
Published: July 2021

Na experiência docente, constataram-se dificuldades dos estudantes dos semestres iniciais de um curso de engenharia para trabalhar com funções e suas representações. Teve-se como objetivo, nesta pesquisa, identificar a contribuição de uma intervenção baseada em um conjunto de problemas de otimização para a ampliação do conhecimento dos participantes sobre funções. A pesquisa foi orientada segundo o Design Experiment de Cobb et al, uma metodologia de natureza intervencionista cuja intenção é investigar as possibilidades de melhoria educacional, trazendo novas formas de aprendizagem. As ideias de Douady sobre mudanças de quadros forneceram o aporte teórico e buscou-se, com os problemas propostos, provocar tais mudanças por meio da resolução de problemas de otimização. Os participantes tiveram a oportunidade de analisar com mais profundidade e propriedade os dados e conceitos que lhes foram apresentados na educação básica e desenvolver uma visão sobre o entendimento e compreensão da utilização das funções para resolução de problemas de otimização.
EPISTEMOLOGIA DE GASTON BACHELARD
Authors: Araujo do Nascimento Edilson
Published: July 2021

O presente artigo tem como objetivo principal levantar nas produções acadêmicas algumas das principais características da teórica do epistemólogo Gaston Bachelard. Para tanto, o corpus deste artigo é formado pelas produções acadêmicas obtidas através de levantamentos na Biblioteca Digital Brasileira de Teses e Dissertações – BDTD, repositório digital renomado, bem como em artigos apresentados na disciplina Teorias da Aprendizagem da Pós-Graduação em Educação Científica e Matemática da Universidade Estadual de Mato Grosso do Sul – UEMS e algumas das obras de Bachelard. Concluímos que a teoria de Bachelard embora não esteja totalmente voltada para a educação é importante para a compreensão da construção do conhecimento científico e ao mesmo tempo abre novos caminhos para conhecer o subconsciente humano.
(DES)ARTICULAÇÃO ENTRE CONHECIMENTOS MATEMÁTICOS E DIDÁTICOS-PEDAGÓGICOS: PERCEPÇÕES DE PROFESSORES EM INÍCIO DE DOCÊNCIA EM MATEMÁTICA
Authors: Dos Santos Lombardi Rudnei , Diniz Pereira Fabrine , Santos da Silva Ayres Luana Maria , Novello Tanise Paula
Published: July 2021

Inúmeras pesquisas buscam compreender o processo de formação inicial docente e essas têm apontado que os cursos de licenciatura ainda apresentam diversos desafios a serem superados. Nesse sentido, esta pesquisa buscou investigar a (des)articulação entre os conhecimentos matemáticos e didáticos-pedagógicos a partir da percepção de professores em início da docência em matemática. Para tanto, realizou-se entrevistas semiestruturadas com seis egressos do Curso de Licenciatura em Matemática da Universidade Federal do Rio Grande – FURG sobre as suas compreensões em relação a diversos aspectos referentes à sua formação inicial. Para analisar esses relatos utilizou-se o Discurso do Sujeito Coletivo (DSC) e emergiram três discursos: “Divergências entre Escola e Universidade”; “Desarticulação entre conhecimentos matemáticos e didáticos-pedagógicos”; e “Aproximação com o campo escolar”. Nesse artigo será analisado o segundo discurso, através do qual foi possível perceber que para alcançar uma formação docente mais completa, não basta aproximar a Matemática acadêmica da Matemática escolar, também é preciso integrar o estudo dos conhecimentos didático-pedagógicos com o estudo dos conhecimentos matemáticos. Dessa forma, conclui-se que as disciplinas de conhecimentos específicos e didáticos são importantes para a constituição do docente, porém é importante que os cursos de formação inicial estabeleçam relações entre esses conhecimentos, superando as rupturas conceituais.
BASIC PROVISIONS OF THE STANDARD METHODOLOGY FOR CALCULATING AND PLANNING THE CAPACITY OF 5G TRANSPORT NETWORKS BASED ON SDN/NFV TECHNOLOGIES
Authors: ЦЫМ А.Ю. , ЯРЛЫКОВА С.М. , БЫЧКОВА О.А.
Published: July 2021

Рассмотрены особенности транспортной сети мобильной связи, сооружаемой на основе технологии 5G. Приведена методика расчета структурного состава пользователей и оценки суммарного агрегированного трафика. Рекомендована форма итоговой таблицы с расчетными значениями пропускной способности на участках транспортной сети 5G. Предложено использовать методику для обеспечения массового внедрения инновационных технологий на сети связи общего пользования Российской Федерации путем стандартизации процессов проектирования, строительства и эксплуатации транспортных сетей 5G.

The features of the transport network of mobile communications built based on 5G technology are considered. The methodology for calculating the structural composition of users and assessing the total aggregated traffic is presented. The form of the final table with the calculated values of the bandwidth in the sections of the 5G transport network is recommended. It is proposed to use the methodology to ensure the massive introduction of innovative technologies on the public communication networks of the Russian Federation by standardizing the design, construction, and operation of 5G transport networks.
COMPUTER SIMULATION OF THE ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELD ON URBAN RADIO ROUTES WITH A MOBILE COMMUNICATION POINT
Authors: ГАВРИЛОВ В.М. , КОРНЕЕВА Н.Н.
Published: July 2021

Приведены результаты выполненного с помощью программы FEKO [1-3] электродинамического расчета распределения поля в зоне городской застройки, представленной трехмерной компьютерной моделью. Проведена оценка интенсивности электромагнитного поля в радиоканале с подвижным пунктом связи на затененных и закрытых трассах.

The results of the electrodynamic calculation of the field distribution in the urban area, represented by a threedimensional computer model, performed using the software FEKO, are presented. The intensity of the electromagnetic field in a radio channel with a mobile communication point on shaded and closed routes is estimated.
NBIC-TECHNOLOGIES FOR A DIGITAL ECONOMY
Authors: МАСЛОВ О.Н.
Published: July 2021

Дается обоснование необходимости ускоренного внедрения NBIC-технологий (нанотехнологии, информацион -ные, биологические и когнитивные технологии) в отечественное производство на стадии его перехода к цифровой экономике. Рассматривается проблема формирования системы генерации и реализации инновационных знаний; показана ключевая роль информационных технологий (реинжиниринг бизнес-процессов, имитационное моделирование, системы поддержки реше -ний и др.). Отмечена важность подготовки кадров новой формации, способных использовать достижения NBIC-технологий в интересах современного производства.

The paper discusses the need for accelerated implementation of NBIC-technologies (according to the first letters of their names: nanotechnology, biological, information, and cognitive technologies) in domestic production at the stage of its transition to the digital economy. The problem of forming a system for generating and implementing innovative knowledge is considered. The key role of information technologies (business processes reengineering, simulation modeling, decision support systems, etc.) in its solution is shown. The importance of training personnel of a new formation, capable of using the achievements of NBIC-technologies in the interests of modern production, is noted.