bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pharmacological management of seizures in patients with COVID-19: a systematic review
Authors: Mante Priscilla Kolibea , Adomako Nana Ofori , Omuojine John-Paul , Antwi Paulina
Published: November 2021

Background: Some patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) have been reported to exhibit neurological symptoms such as seizures and impaired consciousness. Our study reviews reported cases to assess the pharmacological approach to managing seizures in SARS-CoV-2 patients and associated outcomes.

Methods: A systematic review of case reports on the incidence of seizures following coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) among patients that reported use of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) in management was performed by using the PRISMA (preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis) guidelines. Databases used included EMBASE, PubMed, SCOPUS, and Google Scholar. Data was presented as qualitative and descriptive data.

Results: In total, 67 articles were selected for full-text assessment, of which 18 were included in the final review. Patients had a median age of 54 years, most of whom were male. Remdisivir, dexamethasone, Laninamivir, hydroxychloroquine, azithromycin, and Lopinavir-ritonavir were common agents used in the management of COVID-19. Most patients presented with either generalized tonic-clonic seizures or status epilepticus. Most patients received levetiracetam as drug choice or as part of their regimen. Other AEDs commonly prescribed included midazolam and sodium valproate. Some patients received no antiepileptic drug therapy. Most of the patients who died had more than one comorbidity. Also, most of the patients who died received COVID-19 treatment drugs. None of the patients who received midazolam as drug choice or as part of their regimen developed recurrent seizures in contrast to patients who received levetiracetam and sodium valproate as drug choice or as part of their regimen. Interestingly, none of the patients who received no AEDs suffered recurrent seizures or died.

Conclusions: Standard guidelines for managing seizures in COVID-19 patients may be required. A limitation of this review is that it involved the use of case reports with no controls and a small number of patients.
Gene expression changes in mammalian hosts during schistosomiasis: a review
Authors: Namulondo Joyce , Mulindwa Julius , Nyangiri Oscar A. , Egesa Moses , Noyes Harry , Matovu Enock ,   TrypanoGEN+ research group of the H3Africa consortium
Published: November 2021

Schistosomiasis affects over 250 million people worldwide with an estimated mortality of more than 200,000 deaths per year in sub-Saharan Africa. Efforts to control schistosomiasis in the affected areas have mainly relied on mass administration of praziquantel, which kills adult but not immature worms of all Schistosoma species. Mammalian hosts respond differently to Schistosoma infection with some being more susceptible than others, which is associated with risk factors such as sociodemographic, epidemiological, immunological and/or genetic.

Host genetic factors play a major role in influencing molecular processes in response to schistosomiasis as shown in gene expression studies. These studies highlight gene profiles expressed at different time points of infection using model animals. Immune function related genes; cytokines (Th1 and Th17) are upregulated earlier in infection and Th2 upregulated later indicating a mixed Th1/Th2 response. However, Th1 response has been shown to be sustained in S. japonicum infection. Immune mediators such as matrix metalloproteinases (Mmps) and tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases (Timps) are expressed later in the infection and these are linked to wound healing and fibrosis. Downregulation of metabolic associated genes is recorded in later stages of infection.

Most mammalian host gene expression studies have been done using rodent models, with fewer in larger hosts such as bovines and humans. The majority of these studies have focused on S. japonicum infections and less on S. haematobium and S. mansoni infections (the two species that cause most global infections). The few human schistosomiasis gene expression studies so far have focused on S. japonicum and S. haematobium infections and none on S. mansoni, as far as we are aware. This highlights a paucity of gene expression data in humans, specifically with S. mansoni infection. This data is important to understand the disease pathology, identify biomarkers, diagnostics and possible drug targets.
Can the financial performance of the micro, small, and medium-sized enterprise production sector in Medan be a signal in the use of a leanness strategy?
Authors: Triono Muhammad Andi Abdillah , Ahmad Selamat Triono , Ermiati Cut , Sihombing Humisar
Published: November 2021

Background: Business actors need to take strategic steps to maintain and improve business performance. Studying and deepening the strategies used by micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) to maintain their performance conditions are needed as a barometer of crisis resistance in the macroeconomic sector, especially those used by MSMEs in Medan, Indonesia. Thus, this research provides a real picture in the field of variables and indicators that affect the business strategy of MSMEs through the perspective of a lean approach.

Methods: The population in this region was 466 business actors of MSMEs in Medan. A random stratified sampling strategy is used, and 169 businesses in the MSMEs production sector were obtained as samples, which has exceeded the standard achievement of 80 percent in detecting an R2 value of at least 0.10 (with a 5 percent probability of error). The research variables used consisted of one endogenous variable (use of a lean strategy), two exogenous variables (external lean practice and internal lean practice), and one mediating variable (financial performance). Seven hypotheses (inner models) were tested using structural equation modelling–partial least squares, nonparametric statistical data analysis techniques with mediation effects, assisted by Smart PLS 3.0.

Results: Based on the path coefficient, internal lean practice predominantly influences the financial performance of MSMEs in Medan compared to external lean practice. Internal lean practice is the primary signal for identifying the degree of lean strategy practice in the MSMEs production sector in Medan city.

Conclusion: These findings can be a map for practitioners, academics, and the government to improve the financial performance of MSMEs and assist them in their business strategies through internal business practices. Moreover, this study's impact can lead to an understanding of business strategies in operations that directly or indirectly affect the environment toward global warming and various environmental problems.
Metabolic response against traffic congestion-induced stress
Authors: Putri Mirasari , Rathomi Hilmi Sulaiman , Yulianto Fajar Awalia , Djajanagara Raden Aliya T. M. , Rosady Dony Septriana , Achmad Sadiah , Djojosugito M. Ahmad
Published: November 2021

Background: Traffic congestion is a common problem in large cities, which can induce stress in participants in vehicles as well as pedestrians. In such conditions, several stress hormones, such as catecholamines and cortisol are secreted by the adrenal glands resulting in metabolic responses. Prolonged metabolic changes can lead to metabolic diseases, such as metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease. This study aimed to examine the metabolic responses induced by traffic congestion in young adults.

Methods: We enrolled 71 undergraduate students aged 20-30 years from the Faculty of Medicine Universitas Islam Bandung, who regularly go to campus on foot, by public transportation, motorcycles, and cars. Medical history was screened by questionnaires before the testing day. Blood samples were drawn soon after participants arrived on campus. We used bioimpedance analysis to measure fasting blood glucose, lipid profiles, and nutrient body status.

Results: Most participants rode motorcycles (46.48%), and the most common travel time was short (<15 min, 54.9%.). Total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels were significantly lower in participants using vehicles - either private or public transportation - compared with pedestrians (p<0.05 and p<0.02, respectively). Participants with a short travel duration had significantly higher total cholesterol and LDL levels than those with longer ones (p<0.02 and p<0.05, respectively).

Conclusions: Based on the above results, metabolic responses to traffic congestion such as changes to total cholesterol and LDL levels depended the type of transportation and travel duration.
PREDICTORS IN-HOSPITAL MORTALITY OF SEPTIC VS NON-SEPTIC ACUTE KIDNEY INJURY PATIENTS: AN OBSERVATIONAL COHORT STUDY
Authors: Samsu Nur , Marzuki Mochammad Jalalul , Pratiwi Irma Chandra , Pravitasari Ratna Adelia , Rifai Achmad , Anshory Muhammad
Published: November 2021

Background: To compare the predictors In-hospital mortality of patients with septic Acute Kidney Injury (S-AKI) and non-septic AKI (NS-AKI).

Methods: a cohort study of critically ill patients with AKI admitted to the emergency room at a tertiary hospital from January to June 2019. The primary outcome was hospital mortality.

Results: There were 116 patients who met the inclusion criteria. Compared with NS-AKI, patients with S-AKI had significantly lower mean MAP, median eGFR, and urine output. (UO). S-AKI had higher mortality and vasopressor requirements and had a lower renal recovery than NS-AKI (63.2% vs 31.4%, p=0.001; 30.8% vs 13.7%, p=0.031, and 36.9% vs 60.8%, p=0.011, respectively). AKI stage 3 and vasopressor requirements were dependent risk factors for both S-AKI and NS-AKI mortality. Meanwhile, SOFA score > 7 and the need for dialysis are dependent and independent risk factors for mortality in S-AKI. Worsening and/or persistence in UO, serum urea and creatinine levels at 48 h after admission were predictors of mortality in S-AKI and NS-AKI. Improvement in UO in surviving patients was more pronounced in S-AKI than in NS-AKI (50% vs 17.1%, p=0.007). The surviving S-AKI patients had a longer hospital stay than surviving NS-AKI [8 (6-14.5) vs 5 (4 – 8), p=0.004]. S-AKI have higher mortality and vasopressor requirements and have lower renal recovery than NS-AKI.

Conclusion: S-AKI have higher mortality and vasopressor requirements and a lower renal recovery than NS-AKI. Independent predictors of mortality in S-AKI were high SOFA scores and the need for dialysis.
A scoping review protocol to identify clinical signs, symptoms and biomarkers indicative of biofilm presence in chronic wounds
Authors: Ivory John D. , Vellinga Akke , O'Gara James , Gethin Georgina
Published: November 2021

Introduction: Wound healing is characterised by haemostatic, inflammatory, proliferative and remodelling phases. In the presence of comorbidities such as diabetes, healing can stall and chronic wounds may result. Infection is detrimental to these wounds and associated with poor outcomes. Wounds are contaminated with microbes and debris, and factors such as host resistance, bacterial virulence, species synergy and bioburden determine whether a wound will deteriorate to critically colonised/infected states. Biofilms are sessile microbial communities, exhibiting high-level antibiotic tolerance and resistance to host defences. Biofilm in critically colonised wounds can contribute to delayed healing. Little is known about clinical presentation and diagnosis of wound biofilms.

Objective: To identify from the literature clinical signs, symptoms and biomarkers that may indicate biofilm presence in chronic wounds.

Methods: This review will be guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR), and the Joanna Briggs Institute Manual for Evidence Synthesis. Studies of any design in any language recruiting adult patients with  venous, diabetic, pressure or mixed arterial-venous ulcers and reporting data on clinical signs/symptoms of biofilm are eligible. Searches of Medline, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane Central and BASE will be conducted from inception to present. Reference scanning and contact with content experts will be employed. Title/abstract screening and full text selection will be executed by two reviewers independently. Discrepancies will be resolved by discussion between reviewers or through third party intervention. Data will be extracted by a single reviewer and verified by a second. Clinical signs and symptoms data will be presented in terms of study design, setting and participant demographic data.

Discussion: Understanding biofilm impact on chronic wounds is inconsistent and based largely on in vitro research. This work will consolidate clinical signs, symptoms and biomarkers of biofilm in chronic wounds reported in the literature.
RuralCovidLife: Study protocol and description of the data
Authors: Stevenson Anna J , Huggins Charlotte F , Forbes Alison , Hume Jim , Fulton Grant , Thirlwall Claire , Miles Janet , Fawns-Ritchie Chloe , Campbell Archie , Nangle Clifford , Dawson Rebecca , Edwards Rachel , Flaig Robin , Hartley Louise , Levein Christie , McCartney Daniel L , Deary Ian J , Hayward Caroline , Marioni Riccardo E , McIntosh Andrew M , Sudlow Cathie , Porteous David J
Published: November 2021

RuralCovidLife is part of Generation Scotland’s CovidLife project, investigating the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and mitigation measures on people in Scotland. The RuralCovidLife project focuses on Scotland’s rural communities, and how they have been impacted by the pandemic.

During survey development, Generation Scotland consulted with people living or working in rural communities, and collaborated with a patient and public involvement and engagement (PPIE) group composed of rural community leaders. Through this consultation work, the RuralCovidLife survey was developed to assess the issues most pertinent to people in rural communities, such as mental health, employment, transport, connectivity, and local communities.

Between 14th October and 30th November 2020, 3,365 participants from rural areas in Scotland took part in the survey. Participant ages ranged from 16 to 96 (mean = 58.4, standard deviation [SD] = 13.3), and the majority of the participants were female (70.5%). Over half (51.3%) had taken part in the original CovidLife survey.

RuralCovidLife includes a subsample (n = 523) of participants from the Generation Scotland cohort. Pre-pandemic data on health and lifestyle, as well as biological samples, are available for these participants. These participants’ data can also be linked to past and future healthcare records, allowing analysis of retrospective and prospective health outcomes.

Like Generation Scotland, RuralCovidLife is designed as a resource for researchers. RuralCovidLife data, as well as the linked Generation Scotland data, is available for use by external researchers following approval from the Generation Scotland Access Committee. RuralCovidLife can be used to investigate mental health, well-being, and behaviour in participants living in rural areas during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as comparisons with non-rural samples. Moreover, the sub-sample with full Generation Scotland data and linkage can be used to investigate the long-term health consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic in rural communities.
State of emergency and Human Rights – the situation of Hungary
Authors: Csink Lóránt
Published: November 2021

In the first days of 2020, the nations of Europe could hardly imagine that their lives were going to change so drastically in a couple of months. SARS – Covid 19, aka coronavirus resulted in a great change in all societies on the globe. Most countries introduced a state of emergency and made restrictions on many aspects of people’s lives. The present paper intends to give an overview of the measures that the Hungarian government has taken so far. For this purpose, it first analyses the legal background of state of emergency that would help understand the present situation. Secondly, it describes the measures taken, and finally it evaluates how the measures affect human rights, especially free movement, freedom of enterprise and free speech.
Iterative Deepening Dynamically Improved Bounds Bidirectional Search
Authors: Pavlik John A. , Sewell Edward C. , Jacobson Sheldon H.
Published: November 2021

This paper presents a new bidirectional search algorithm to solve the shortest path problem. The new algorithm uses an iterative deepening technique with a consistent heuristic to improve lower bounds on path costs. The new algorithm contains a novel technique of filtering nodes to significantly reduce the memory requirements. Computational experiments on the pancake problem, sliding tile problem, and Rubik’s cube show that the new algorithm uses significantly less memory and executes faster than A* and other state-of-the-art bidirectional algorithms.

Summary of Contribution: Quickly solving single-source shortest path problems on graphs is important for pathfinding applications and is a core problem in both artificial intelligence and operations research. This paper attempts to solve large problems that do not easily fit into the available memory of a desktop computer, such as finding the optimal shortest set of moves to solve a Rubik’s cube, and solve them faster than existing algorithms.
An Analysis of Gender Equality of Chinese Culture in Mulan Film (2020)
Authors: Usman Sirikit A. , Umar Meis Sintia , Tamola Mifta Sulistia , Ishak Ridho
Published: November 2021

Mulan film (2020) raises gender issues and is still related to the laws of norms and traditions. Mulan has a strong and patriarchal nature while Chinese cultural traditions are not unilateral with Mulan figures. The study aims to promote justice for women with regard to Chinese culture and traditions, as well as whether it has the opportunity to promote equal treatment without discrimination. Gender equality is commonplace to raise and talk about. Each gender is formed in a complex culture of each gender either in their respective positions or positions. Gender equality is linked to feminist, masculine and also includes sexism. Women and men can change roles like women can be wise leaders and men can do the skills that women have such as cooking. This study uses qualitative descriptive methods to analyze the social circumstances associated with the scene. Researchers use the technique of observing the film, interpreting each situation in the film, then collecting data, seeking information on gender equality or activities through observation and sensing that are still related to gender equality in culture, After that give a view on the object to be observed. Thus the research of Mulan film (2020) is intended to find a new mindset or an idea and a new understanding. This method uses observation and sensing and then provides a new interpretation.
Hitler's Jewish Refugees
Authors: Kaplan Marion
Published: November 2021

This book describes the experience of Jewish refugees as they fled Hitler to live in limbo in Portugal until they could reach safer havens abroad. As the Nazis launched the Holocaust, Lisbon emerged as the best way station for Jews to escape Europe for North and South America. Jewish refugees had begun fleeing the continent in the mid-1930s from ports closer to home. But after Germany defeated Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, and France, and Italy joined the war, all in the spring of 1940, Lisbon became the port of departure from Europe. Jewish refugees from western and eastern Europe aimed for Portugal. An emotional history of fleeing, the book probes how specific locations touched refugees' inner lives, including the borders they nervously crossed or the overcrowded transatlantic ships that signaled their liberation.
A Review of Randomized Controlled Trials of Pes Anserinus Tendinitis/Bursitis Syndrome in the China National Knowledge Infrastructure Database
Authors: Choi Hyo Jung , Back Hye Kyung , Kim Young-Jun , Oh Da Yoon , Park Cheol Woo , Namgoong Jin
Published: November 2021

The purpose of this study was to review randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of pes anserinus tendinitis or bursitis (PATB) syndrome in the China National Knowledge Infrastructure database to investigate the efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine treatment for PATB syndrome. There were 20 RCTs published from 2001 to 2021 which were selected for analysis by publication year, number of samples, evaluation criteria, treatment duration, and treatment method. Out of the 142 retrieved RCTs, 20 were relevant to this review, and had performed Chinese medicine treatments including acupuncture (the most common treatment typically using acupoints SP10, ST35, SP9, and LR8), manipulation (typically using acupoints ST35, SP10, and SP9), and external application therapy (typically herbal medicine) in the treatment of PATB syndrome. Chinese medicine treatments were used widely in the treatment of PATB syndrome. We hope in the future, this review may initiate the development of treatments for PATB syndrome using Korean medicine.
Propagation of two relativistic hollow Gaussian laser beams in magnetized plasma: extended paraxial theory
Authors: Purohit Gunjan , Kothiyal Pradeep , Raizada Amita
Published: November 2021

This work presents an analytical and numerical study for the mutual interaction and propagation of two intense hollow Gaussian laser beams (HGLBs) at difference frequency in a magnetized plasma. This work has been done in the presence of relativistic nonlinearity, which depends on the intensity of both laser beams. In this process, the propagation of both laser beams in the plasma is described by cross-focusing, as the behavior of one laser beam affects that of another laser beam. The nonlinear differential equations for the beamwidth of HGLBs have been obtained within the Wentzel–Kramers–Brillouin (WKB) method and higher-order paraxial theory. The expression for the nonlinear dielectric constant of the plasma has been obtained from the maximum irradiance of the HGLBs. The obtained equations have been solved numerically to explore the effect of the well-established laser and plasma parameters on the focusing of both laser beams in a magnetized plasma. The results have been compared with paraxial ray theory and Gaussian profile of the laser beams. The focusing/intensity of both laser beams increases in the extended paraxial region compared to the paraxial region in the magnetized plasma. The focusing of both laser beams increases even at high values of beam order and electron cyclotron frequency in the extended paraxial region.
Van der Waals coherent epitaxy of GaN and InGaN/GaN multi-quantum-well via a graphene inserted layer
Authors: Yu Jiadong , Wang Lai , Han Xu , Hao Zhibiao , Luo Yi , Sun Changzheng , Han Yanjun , Xiong Bing , Wang Jian , Li Hongtao
Published: November 2021

GaN-based films grown on sp3-bonded single-crystalline substrates can maintain the coherent growth character. However, exfoliating III-nitride films from these substrates proves difficult because of the strong sp3-type covalent bonds between the substrates and epilayers. The sp2-bonded two-dimensional (2D) materials exhibit hexagonal in-plane lattice arrangements and weakly bonded layers, so the GaN epilayer grown on 2D materials can be transferred onto foreign substrates with ease. In this paper, graphene is used as the inserted layer (IL) on freestanding GaN substrate and the van der Waals coherent epitaxy of GaN-based single-crystalline films on such graphene/GaN templates is investigated. Density functional theory computations are performed to probe the transmission of crystallographic information of wurtzite GaN through the graphene IL. The appropriate layer numbers of graphene IL and GaN growth temperature are optimized to demonstrate the coherent epitaxy character. Both theoretical and experimental results support that the coherent epitaxy of GaN can only be achieved by using a monolayer graphene IL, and the crystalline quality of optimized GaN film can reach the same level of that grown directly on GaN freestanding substrates.
Metasurface doublet-integrated bidirectional grating antenna enabling enhanced wavelength-tuned beam steering
Authors: Lee Woo-Bin , Im Chul-Soon , Zhou Changyi , Bhandari Bishal , Choi Duk-Yong , Lee Sang-Shin
Published: November 2021

We propose and demonstrate an optical phased-array-based bidirectional grating antenna (BDGA) in silicon nitride waveguides. The BDGA is integrated with a miniaturized all-dielectric metasurface doublet (MD) formed on a glass substrate. The BDGA device, which takes advantage of alternately feeding light to its ports in opposite directions, is presumed to effectively provide a doubled wavelength-tuned steering efficiency compared to its unidirectional counterpart. The MD, which is based on vertically cascaded convex and concave metalenses comprising circular hydrogenated amorphous silicon nanopillars, is meticulously placed atop the BDGA chip to accept and deflect a beam emanating from the emission area, thereby boosting the beam-steering performance. The manufactured BDGA could achieve an enhanced beam-steering efficiency of 0.148 deg/nm as well as a stable spectral emission response in the wavelength range of 1530–1600 nm. By deploying a fabricated MD atop the silicon photonic BDGA chip, the steering efficiency was confirmed to be boosted by a factor of

∼
3.1

, reaching 0.461 deg/nm, as intended.
Trends in non-pharmaceutical intervention (NPI) related community practice for the prevention of COVID-19 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Hailemariam Damen , Kumie Abera , Wakuma Samson , Tefera Yifoker , Abegaz Teferi , Tefera Worku , Ayele Wondimu , Tamire Mulugeta , Yirsaw Shibabaw
Published: November 2021

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected Ethiopia since March 13, 2020, when the first case was detected in Addis Ababa. Since then, the incidence of cases has continued to increase day by day. As a result, the health sector has recommended universal preventive measures to be practiced by the public. However, studies on adherence to these preventive measures are limited.

Objective

To monitor the status of preventive practices of the population related to hand washing, physical distancing, and respiratory hygiene practices at selected sites within the city of Addis Ababa.

Methods

Weekly cross-sectional non-participatory observations were done during the period of April-June, 2020. Data was collected using the Open Data Kit (ODK) tool in ten public sites involving eight public facilities targeted for individual observations. Ten individuals were randomly observed at each facility over two days a week at peak hours of public services. WHO operational definitions of the preventive behaviors were adopted for this study. Observations were conducted anonymously at gates or entrances of public facilities and places.

Results

A total of 12,056 individual observations with 53% males and 82% in an estimated age range of 18–50 years age group were involved in this study. There was an increase in the practice of respiratory hygiene from 14% in week one to 77% in week 10, while those of hand hygiene and physical distancing changed little over the weeks from their baseline of 24% and 34%, respectively. Overall, respiratory hygiene demonstrated an increased rate of 6% per week, while hand hygiene and physical distancing had less than a 1% change per week, Females and the estimated age group of 18–50 years had practice changes in respiratory hygiene with no difference in hand hygiene and physical distancing practices. Respiratory hygiene took about six weeks to reach a level of 77% from its baseline of 24%, making an increment of about 9% per week.

Conclusion

The public practice of respiratory hygiene improved threefold whereas hand hygiene and physical distancing revealed no change. Regularly sustained public mobilization and mass education are required to sustain the achievements gained in respiratory hygiene and further hand hygiene and physical distancing.
Machine learning for DCO-OFDM based LiFi
Authors: Purnita Krishna Saha , Mondal M. Rubaiyat Hossain
Published: November 2021

Light fidelity (LiFi) uses different forms of orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM), including DC biased optical OFDM (DCO-OFDM). In DCO-OFDM, the use of a large DC bias causes optical power inefficiency, while a small bias leads to higher clipping noise. Hence, finding an appropriate DC bias level for DCO-OFDM is important. This paper applies machine learning (ML) algorithms to find optimum DC-bias value for DCO-OFDM based LiFi systems. For this, a dataset is generated for DCO-OFDM using MATLAB tool. Next, ML algorithms are applied using Python programming language. ML is used to find the important attributes of DCO-OFDM that influence the optimum DC bias. It is shown here that the optimum DC bias is a function of several factors including, the minimum, the standard deviation, and the maximum value of the bipolar OFDM signal, and the constellation size. Next, linear and polynomial regression algorithms are successfully applied to predict the optimum DC bias value. Results show that polynomial regression of order 2 can predict the optimum DC bias value with a coefficient of determination of 96.77% which confirms the effectiveness of the prediction.
Assessment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) severity with novel serum-based markers: A pilot study
Authors: Goyale Atul , Jain Anjly , Smith Colette , Papatheodoridi Margarita , Misas Marta Guerrero , Roccarina Davide , Prat Laura Iogna , Mikhailidis Dimitri P. , Nair Devaki , Tsochatzis Emmanuel
Published: November 2021

Background/Aims

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) represents a significant public health issue. Identifying patients with simple steatosis from those with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is crucial since NASH is correlated with increased morbidity and mortality. Serum-based markers, including adipokines and cytokines, are important in the pathogenesis and progression of NAFLD. Here we assessed the usefulness of such markers in patients with NAFLD.

Methods

This prospective, cross-sectional study included 105 adult patients with varying severity of NAFLD. Twelve serum-based markers were measured by 3 biochip platforms and 2 enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) methods. We also developed a NAFLD individual fibrosis index (NIFI) using the serum-based markers mostly correlated with fibrosis severity.

Results

Sixty-one out of 105 patients were male (58.1%) with mean age was 53.5 years. Higher Interleukin-6 (IL-6) increased (p = 0.0321) and lower Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) serum levels (p = 0.0031) were associated with higher fibrosis as measured by Fibroscan® in multivariable regression analysis. Using receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis for the NIFI, area under the curve for predicting Fibroscan values ≥ 7.2 kPa was 0.77 (95%CI: 0.67, 0.88, p<0.001), with sensitivity of 89.3%, specificity of 57.9% and a positive likelihood ratio of 2.8.

Conclusions

Increasing fibrosis severity in NAFLD is associated with differential expression of IL-6 and MMP-9. NIFI could be valuable for the prediction of advanced NAFLD fibrosis and potentially help avoid unnecessary interventions such as liver biopsy in low-risk patients.
Screening for consistency and contamination within and between bottles of 29 herbal supplements
Authors: Veatch-Blohm Maren E. , Chicas Iris , Margolis Kathryn , Vanderminden Rachael , Gochie Marisa , Lila Khusmanie
Published: November 2021

In the United States the marketing of dietary supplements, of which the majority are herbal supplements, is currently a multibillion-dollar industry involving use from over half of the adult population. Due to their frequency of use and the lack of regulation of herbal supplements by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) it is important for the health and safety of consumers to know about consistency of supplements and any possible contamination by harmful products, such as heavy metals or microorganisms. The purpose of the study was to determine consistency and contamination within and between bottles of common herbal supplements. Duplicate bottles of 29 herbal supplements were tested for consistency for antioxidant activity, phenolic concentration and flavonoid concentration under methanolic and water extraction. The supplements were also analyzed for the presence of metals and fungal contaminants. For all of the supplements tested there was high variability around the mean in antioxidant activity, phenolic concentrations and flavonoid concentrations, with coefficients of variation (CV) ranging from 0–120. Zinc was found in almost 90% of the supplements, nickel in about half of the supplements and lead in none of the supplements. Approximately 60% of the supplements contained fungal isolates. Although the majority of the fungi that were found in the supplements are generally not hazardous to human health, many of them could be problematic to sensitive groups, such as immunocompromised individuals. The data, which demonstrates contamination and a lack of consistency, in conjunction with previous studies on supplement contamination, strengthen the case that the FDA should regulate over-the-counter herbal supplements the same way that they regulate food and drugs. Until such time it is crucial that consumers are informed that many of the supplements that they take may lack the standardization that would reduce the chance of contamination and lead to consistency from one pill to the next.
Novas Abordagens sobre o Problema de Otimização do Projeto do Núcleo do Reator
Authors: Abud Kappel Marco André , Bastos Ivan Napoleão , Souza Caio Lucas dos Santos , Libotte Gustavo Barbosa , Domingos Roberto Pinheiro , Platt Gustavo Mendes
Published: November 2021

O projeto do núcleo de um reator nuclear é um problema que consiste na escolha pertinente de uma série de parâmetros que devem obedecer a algumas restrições técnicas e físicas. Diversos métodos têm sido aplicados na literatura especializada de modo a obter-se soluções ótimas para este problema. O presente trabalho tem como objetivo apresentar um análise comparativa de duas metodologias de otimização, quais sejam: Invasive Weed Optimization e Many-Objective Evolutionary Algorithm.
Combined Endoscopic Stent-In-Stent Placement by Lumen-Apposing Metal Stents Through Self-Expanding Metal Stents for Simultaneous Malignant Biliary and Duodenal Obstruction
Authors: Metelli Flavio , Pezzoli Alessandro , Fabbri Carlo , Pizzo Elena , Arena Rosario , Cifalà Viviana , Simone Loredana , Solimando Riccardo , Merighi Alberto
Published: November 2021

The palliation of simultaneous biliary and duodenal obstruction in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer is a clinically and technically challenging scenario. Endoscopic procedures are a valid alternative to surgical or percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage. The availability of self-expanding metal stents (SEMSs) and lumen-apposing metal stents (LAMS) have expanded therapeutic options. We describe a case in which biliary and duodenal obstructions were treated successfully with the combined use of SEMS and LAMS devices. Endoscopic ultrasound-guided biliary drainage with the use of new LAMS and a duodenal SEMS can be a valid option in expert hands as a palliative and minimally invasive treatment for gastric outlet and biliary obstruction.
Effect of Cryogenic Treatment on the Microstructure Modification of SKH51 Steel
Authors: Worasaen Kaweewat , Suwanpinij Piyada , Tuchinda Karuna
Published: November 2021

This research aimed to investigate the microstructure modification mechanism used to improve the hardness and wear resistance of SKH51 steel. The cryogenic treatment (CT), including both shallow cryogenic treatment (SCT) and deep cryogenic treatment (DCT), was used to modify the microstructure of SKH51 steel in this research. The effect of short and long holding time (12 and 36 h) in CT was studied. The microstructures were evaluated by using a light optical microscopy (LOM) and a scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The phase identifications of the matrix, carbides, and a-parameter of the matrix were analyzed by using X-ray diffraction (XRD). The M6C and MC carbides size, aspect ratio, and distribution were analyzed using digimizer image analysis software on the SEM micrographs. Micro-Vickers were employed to evaluate the hardness of the targeted samples. Wear tests were performed by using a 6 mm diameter WC ball as the indenter and 5-N-constant load with a ball-on-disk wear tester. The results suggested that the increase of the secondary carbide was caused by the contraction and expansion phenomena of the matrix’s lattice, forcing the carbon atom out and acting as the carbide nucleation. The influence of holding time in the SCT and DCT regions was different. For the SCT, increasing the holding time increased the volume’s fraction of MC carbide. Conversely, the M6C carbide size grew with increasing holding time in the DCT region, while no significant increase in the number of MC carbide was observed. The cryogenic treatment was found to increase the volume fraction of the MC carbide by up to 10% compared to the conventional heat treatment (CHT) condition in the SCT region (both 12 and 36 h) and DCT with 12 h holding time. Due to the microstructure modification, it was found that the cryogenic treatment can improve material hardness and lead to an increase in the wear resistance of SKH51 by up to 70% compared to the CHT treated material. This was due to the increase in the compressive residual stress, precipitation of the MC, and growth of the M6C primary carbide.
Zwischen rechtlichen Vorgaben, Forschung und praktischer Anwendung – zur Bewertung von Siedlungsflächen im Flächennutzungsplan
Authors: Schoppengerd Johanna , Schubert Katharina
Published: November 2021

The paper analyses the municipal assessment practice for the selection of settlement areas in preparatory land-use planning displays the influence of research results on current planning practice. Based on an analysis of the state of research and the legal framework conditions, the assessment of potential settlement areas for 29 preparatory land-use plans has been analysed. As a result, it was determined that the number of selection criteria and the complexity of the assessment in planning practice has increased significantly in recent years. Furthermore, it became obvious that and to what extend the planning methodology and the criteria applied to select settlement areas differ substantially between the municipalities. Despite extensive application-oriented research in recent years on the assessment and selection of settlement areas, only indirect influences of the research on planning practice can be identified. Nevertheless, the analyses revealed that municipality themselves also created new criteria and procedures.
BLASKI I CIENIE BADAŃ POSTKOLONIALNYCH NAD POLSKĄ LITERATURĄ ROMANTYCZNĄ
Authors: Bagłajewski Arkadiusz
Published: November 2021

This paper aims at a synthetic presentation of four representative research practices in the first stage of postcolonial studies concerned with Polish literature of the Romantic period. This is currently one of the key tools utilised in the studies of Polish Romanticism, which proved to offer a considerable scope for revisions, especially with regard to the myth of the Borderlands and Messianism, thus enabling major Romantic ideologies and myths to be redefined in terms of identity. An analysis of research discourses reveals the shortcomings and benefits of the postcolonial method when employed in the studies of Polish Romanticism. On the one hand, an all too rigid application of the tools has led to certain interpretive simplifications of Romantic texts, while on the other the authors of the discussed works were able to conceptualize the identities of Polish Romantic literature anew.
The prospective status of women in israel following a clash between the feminist and religious revolutions in the Israeli army
Authors: Pershitz Anat
Published: November 2021

In the past decade, the Israeli Army (IDF) has been undergoing simultane-ously two ‘social revolutions’: a ‘feminist revolution’ and a “religious revolution”. The two revolutions have different and conflicting ideologies causing a clash of values. Feminist values demand the integration of women in the army without gender separation, whereas religious principles require modesty and gender separation. At the moment, in practice, religious values which under-mine women’s equal opportunities in the army outweigh democratic values. If the secular women and men in Israeli society will not act to deprive the IDF of its unofficial and unauthorized role of balancing conflicting values in society, the status and roles of women in the army will be downgraded, directly im-pacting gender inequality in the employment market.
Pytania ontologiczne w badaniach nad społeczeństwem. Sabina Prejsnar-Szatyńska, Problematyka ontologiczna w pol-skiej teorii socjologicznej. Analiza myśli Floriana Znanieckie-go, Tadeusza Szczurkiewicza, Pawła Rybickiego i Jana Szczepańskiego, Wydawnictwo Libron Filip Lohner, Kraków 2017, ss. 236
Authors: Knast Patrycja Kinga
Published: November 2021

Pytania ontologiczne w badaniach nad społeczeństwem. Sabina Prejsnar-Szatyńska, Problematyka ontologiczna w polskiej teorii socjologicznej. Analiza myśli Floriana Znanieckie-go, Tadeusza Szczurkiewicza, Pawła Rybickiego i Jana Szczepańskiego, Wydawnictwo Libron Filip Lohner, Kraków 2017, ss. 236
THE FRENCH ASPECTS IN THE EDUCATION PATTERN OF THE POLISH NOBILITY IN THE SEVENTEENTH CENTURY
Authors: Serwański Maciej
Published: November 2021

The pattern of education of the Polish noble youth in the seventeenth century changed in comparison with the preceding century. In the latter, the mul-tinational, multicultural and multidenominational nature of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth nurtured attitudes of widely understood tolerance both in terms of ideology and in practice. Poland was receptive to strong Re-naissance influence, while numerous sons of the Polish nobles studied abroad, mainly in Italy but also in Germany and France. The education system in the Jagiellonian monarchy of reflected the trends and the ideals of contemporary European education. The seventeenth century saw increased influence of the Counter-Reformation in the Nobles’ Commonwealth.

The ideas of Sarmatism, embracing xenophobia, religiosity and self-glorification of the existing, petrified political system, became more pro-nounced. These tendencies were broadly present in the pattern of the educa-tion of nobility, a pattern that was prone to strong Jesuit influence in the spirit of the doctrine laid down by the Council of Trent.
Konceptualna mapa wizualności
Authors: Kucner Andrzej
Published: November 2021

The analysis conducted in this paper focuses on the issue of visuality, seeking to determine its fundamental ontological and semiotic aspects. The map of visuality referred to in the title denotes the intention to systematize the condi-tions underlying a visual image and its significance as a product of technology and culture as well as a medium of communication.
Study on the Creep-Fatigue Interaction Behavior of 1Cr11Ni2W2MoV Steel
Authors: Liu Lanzhou , Gao Yifei , Niu Tong , Zhang Zhiwei , Wang Yanjiang , Chen Xin
Published: November 2021

In order to investigate the creep-fatigue interaction of 1Cr11Ni2W2MoV steel, strain-controlled low-cycle fatigue tests were performed at various strain ranges with fully reversible cycle of triangular waveform at 500°C. In addition, different hold times were introduced at the maximum tensile strain to investigate the impact of creep damage on fatigue life. Fracture surfaces and axial section were evaluated in terms of crack growth behavior and propagation path. The creep-fatigue life decreased with increasing hold time. It was observed that cyclic softening effect intensified with tensile holding. Crack initiation and growth behavior changed in relation to hold time that exceeded 60 s at a strain range of 1.2 %, which led to premature failure. Under the present test conditions, a good description of fatigue life was provided by the model based on inelastic strain energy density.
Organic Compounds Evaluation from Fumes Generated in Laboratory by Bio-recycled Asphalt Mixtures
Authors: Gaudefroy Vincent , Presti Davide Lo , Porot Laurent , Pouget Simon , Planche Jean-Pascal , Williams Chris , Chailleux Emmanuel
Published: November 2021

Using bio-binder and bio-additives as recycling agents for asphalt mixtures with high-content of reclaimed asphalt (RA) is proving to be feasible. It is still not clear whether this combination might provide new known hazardous emissions from airborne binder fumes. The health hazard related to airborne bitumen fume generation is primarily relevant for paving crews, whereas there is little opportunity for exposure for asphalt plant workers. In this study, measurements of gaseous organic compounds from airborne binder fumes of selected bio-asphalt mixtures have been measured during the laboratory mixing process by using a thermo-mixer equipped with a chimney at University Gustave Eiffel. Parameters studied are the binder nature, mix formula, and mixing temperatures. Results show that generally combining bio-based materials and RA is as safe as using conventional bitumen and RA; however, thanks to this approach, it was possible to identify a strong link between bituminous materials’ composition and their emission potential.
Vertical Random Vibration Test Spectrum to Simulate Forklift Handling Environment
Authors: Böröcz Péter , Horvath Laszlo , Huang Yu Yang
Published: November 2021

Analyzing and measuring the vibration environment during distribution is fundamental to understanding and simulating the ability of a packaged-product system to avoid any damages from transportation hazards. During distribution, various vehicles, including forklifts, are used to perform shipping and handling tasks such as loading, unloading, and warehouse organizing processes. The aim of this paper was to provide an understanding of the average vibration levels that occur during handling so they can be used in pre-shipment testing. Various forklifts were observed, measured, and analyzed to obtain information about their average vibration levels while performing recommended tests. The measured acceleration-time data were analyzed in terms of power spectral densities (PSD) and presented with statistical data that provided an understanding of the variability of intensity. The PSD peaks were between approximately 2.5 and 5 Hz, and then they decreased to 120 Hz. The number of instances over 120 Hz was extremely low. The final recommended vibration test spectrum was determined to be in the frequency range of 1–120 Hz and the data were smoothed between six breakpoints.