bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
O Uso da Toxina Botulínica Tipo A em Pacientes com Disfunções Motoras Geradas por Síndromes Neurológicas / The Use of Botulinum Toxin Type A in Patients with Motor Disorders Generated by Neurological Syndromes
Authors: Bernardes Nicole Blanco , Moraes Laisa Nazareth , Vasconcelos Esdras Haine Soares , Pereira Claudiane Daliléia , Pinto Marcelo Pádua Carvalho , Caetano Carolina Costa , Oliveira Uyane Pereira da Silva
Published: August 2021

As toxinas botulínicas (TB’S) são consideradas as toxinas mais potentes conhecidas, produzidas pela bactéria anaeróbica estrita, gram positiva e esporulada denominada Clostridium botulinum. A alta toxicidade da TB aliada a mecanismos de ação extremamente específicos lhe confere características únicas de alta periculosidade e de extrema potência. Utilizada em procedimentos estéticos, no tratamento de diferentes condições distônicas como atenuação de linhas de expressão (rugas), correções assimétricas faciais e síndrome de Frey; no tratamento de hiperidrose, bruxismo e algumas outras condições; já foi utilizada como arma biológica; e é o causador do botulismo humano. É uma terapia que vem se mostrando muito eficiente no ramo da farmacoterapia, é a mais comumente utilizada em pacientes com disfunções motoras geradas por síndromes neurológicas, atuando na junção neuromuscular, bloqueando a ação do neurotransmissor acetilcolina, provocando assim uma paresia muscular (amenizando os espasmos) e melhorando gradativamente o quadro clínico desses pacientes, controlando quadros álgico e reduzindo a espasticidade. O papel dos profissionais da área, em meio a aplicação da TBA, é de fundamental importância para o sucesso da cirurgia. Os profissionais habilitados têm a função de cuidar do paciente durante o processo e acompanhar os resultados após cada aplicação, para que haja melhores resultados. Sendo esse trabalho um estudo descritivo observatório, realizado na cidade de Passos/Mg, na Associação de Pais e Alunos Excepcionais (APAE), onde foi acompanhado as aplicações executadas pelo fisiatra que é acompanhado de outros profissionais da saúde, quanto aos pacientes, foram acompanhados 32 pacientes, observamos que a maioria são do sexo feminino; quanto a faixa etária que varia entre 3 à 5 anos de idade, observamos que a maioria tem de 1 à 20 anos de idade; e quanto às patologias tratadas, observa-se que a de maior prevalência é a Paralisia cerebral espástica.
Os impactos ocasionados pela Pandemia Covid-19 no Bem-estar Psicológico de Profissionais de Saúde e Professores / The impacts caused by the Pandemic Covid-19 on the Psychological well-being of the Health Professionals and Teachers
Authors: Lima Otoniel Moreira Leite , Cordeiro Normelia Teixeira
Published: August 2021

Resumo: O presente estudo teve como objetivo discutir sobre o  COVID-19, que tem sido considerado uma das enfermidades mais agressivas, por causa do quantitativo de casos que exigem internação hospitalar. Também diversos profissionais que necessitaram  adaptarem-se a uma série de mudanças, desde mudanças nos hábitos pessoais de afastamento social, a permanência em casa, hábitos mais regulares de higiene pessoal, uso de máscaras e, o próprio trabalho que passou a ser remoto, em muitos casos.  A recente descoberta de vacina contra o vírus trouxe esperanças, mas ainda está longe de ter toda a população imunizada, o que continua preocupando as sociedades. Os resultados levaram a crer que o sofrimento psicológico que se tem presenciado, atinge a população geral, professores e os profissionais da saúde, esses últimos que têm atuado diretamente no controle do vírus. Assim, o quadro instaurado requer um cuidado especial não só voltado para a saúde física, como também para a saúde psicológica da sociedade. São os mais diversos motivos e exemplos de prejuízos que o momento pandêmico pode ocasionar às pessoas, razão pela qual é importante que sejam desenvolvidas novas estratégias e ferramentas de preservação e apoio psicológico e psiquiátrico, de forma a mitigar os impactos à saúde mental da população. Nesse sentido, políticas públicas precisam ser implementadas, com ações preventivas e emergenciais direcionadas para contornar os agravos provenientes desta pandemia que ora assola o país.
O Processo de Inclusão de Crianças Autistas na Rede Regular de Ensino: Um Olhar Docente / The Process of Including Autistic Children in the Regular Education Network: A Teacher's View
Authors: Amorim Samuel Ilo Fernandes de , Silva Luziete Jorge da , Ferino Luiz Paulo Da Penha , Diniz Felipe Lopes
Published: August 2021

Resumo: O presente trabalho teve como objetivo geral analisar o processo de inclusão de crianças autistas em uma escola regular de ensino no município de Iguatu, Ceará. Trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa, descritiva e transversal, desenvolvida na Escola Estação da Criança, com 12 professores, por meio de entrevistas semi-estruturadas e posteriormente analisadas pelo software Iramuteq. Demonstrou-se que existe uma necessidade de os professores terem uma formação continuada no sentido de conhecer a criança autista e suas particularidades, bem como enxergar cada criança como um ser individual para promover a inclusão dessa criança no ensino regular por meio de uma aprendizagem mais significativa. Ademais, para os professores, o autismo é um transtorno do neurodesenvolvimento, de origem genética, que afeta, principalmente, a comunicação verbal e não verbal, caracterizada por movimentos repetitivos e dificuldade de interação social. Mais estudos são necessários para elucidarem essa questão no sentido de compreender melhor esses alunos, desde o diagnóstico até o tratamento, inclusive, sua inserção em sala-de-aula no ensino regular, possibilitando uma melhor interação social desses alunos e consequentemente garantindo sua inclusão e uma formação mais adequada, como sujeitos sociais, já que estão assegurados por lei.
Odešel Jan Průcha
Authors: Walterová Eliška
Published: August 2021

Obituary on Jan Průcha
Quantitative laboratory results: normal or lognormal distribution?
Authors: Klawonn Frank , Hoffmann Georg , Orth Matthias
Published: August 2021

The identification of a suitable distribution model is a prerequisite for the parametric estimation of reference intervals and other statistical laboratory tasks. Classification of normal vs. lognormal distributions from healthy populations is easy, but from mixed populations, containing unknown proportions of abnormal results, it is challenging. We demonstrate that Bowley’s skewness coefficient differentiates between normal and lognormal distributions. This classifier is robust and easy to calculate from the quartiles Q1–Q3 according to the formula (Q1 − 2 · Q2 + Q3)/(Q3 − Q1). We validate our algorithm with a more complex procedure, which optimizes the exponent λ of a power transformation. As a practical application, we show that Bowley’s skewness coefficient is suited selecting the adequate distribution model for the estimation of reference limits according to a recent International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (IFCC) recommendation, especially if the data is right-skewed.
Analysis of blood index characteristics in COVID-19 patients and their associations with different outcomes
Authors: Xu Xiaoping , Cai Shuqian , Chen Wei , Wang Huabin , Wu Junqi
Published: August 2021

Objectives

The clinical implications of different blood indices in patients with coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) were analyzed at different stages.

Methods

We compared blood test results of 17 COVID-19 patients treated in Jinhua Central Hospital between January 1 and March 5, 2020 at different stages. We also compared the initial blood results of 17 COVID-19 patients with 115 influenza virus A/B (Flu A/B)-positive patients, 19 Mycoplasma pneumonia (MP)-positive patients and 50 healthy subjects (HSs).

Results

(1) The white blood cell count (WBC) and absolute neutrophil count (NEU#) were lower in the SARS-CoV-2 group than in the MP and Flu A/B groups; the eosinophil percentage (EO%) and absolute eosinophil count (EO#) were lower in the severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) group than in the MP group (p<0.05). (2) Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels were significantly lower when patients were discharged from the hospital (p<0.05), EO% and EO# recovered at discharge, and returned to normal levels during follow-up (p<0.05). (3) When the throat swab was nucleic acid-negative but the stool was still positive, lymphocyte percentage (LY%) and absolute lymphocyte count (LY#) decreased (p<0.05). (4) As the cycle threshold (Ct) value of the nucleic acid increased or decreased, EO# showed a consistent trend.

Conclusions

Blood cell count indices upon hospital admission could be helpful to give some tips of diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2-infection, Flu A/B-infection and MP-infection; AST and EO# could be used to predict the outcome of patients. Feces turned negative for nucleic acid more slowly than throat swabs; LY# was lower during the fecal-positive period and low Ct values of fecal nucleic acid were negatively associated with the patient’s recovery level.
Effect of sample heating on results of therapeutic drug monitoring
Authors: Cheng Dao-Hai , Huang Zhen-Guang , Zhu Jing-Bing
Published: August 2021

Objectives

Heat treatment is a convenient measure for pathogens inactivation. The authors investigated the effects of this method on blood concentrations of six commonly therapeutic drugs.

Methods

Plasma and whole blood were pretreated with or without heating at 56 °C for 30 min, and drug concentrations of vancomycin, methotrexate, valproic acid, digoxin, carbamazepine, and cyclosporine were examined.

Results

Increased valproic acid levels after plasma heating (63.2 ± 30.2 vs. 62.1 ± 29.8 mg/L, mean recovery 102.0%) and whole blood heating (64.5 ± 30.5 vs. 62.1 ± 29.8 mg/L, mean recovery 104.6%) were observed (both p<0.05), but these differences were not considered clinically important. Recoveries of vancomycin in heat treatments varied widely, with an average and significant decrease of 15.8% in value after whole blood heating (11.7 ± 8.1 vs. 13.7 ± 8.6 mg/L, p<0.05).

Conclusions

Plasma or whole blood heating at 56 °C for 30 min are feasible in pathogens inactivation during monitoring methotrexate, valproic acid, digoxin, carbamazepine, and cyclosporine. However, such pretreatment seems inappropriate in monitoring vancomycin concentrations. Those results highlight the need for caution when applying heat treatment for pathogens inactivation in therapeutic drug monitoring.
Calculation of indirect reference intervals of plasma lipase activity of adults from existing laboratory data based on the Reference Limit Estimator integrated in the OPUS::L information system
Authors: Amodeo Britta , Schindler Aline , Schacht Ulrike , Wahl Hans Günther
Published: August 2021

Objectives

Most laboratories have difficulties to determine their own reference intervals for the diagnostic evaluation of patient results by direct methods. Therefore, data is often just taken from the literature or package inserts of the analytical tests.

Methods

The section on Reference Limits of the German Society for Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (DGKL) first uploaded the Reference Limit Estimator (RLE) as an R-program with MS Excel-interface on the DGKL home page and now this tool is implemented in the commercial Laboratory Information System OPUS::L (OSM AG Essen, Germany). We used this OPUS::L “Population specific Reference Limits” tool online with our laboratory database. First calculations were done using the example of lipase.

Results

The manufacturer’s original reference interval for lipase 12–53 U/L (adults) was changed to age dependent upper reference limits of <41 U/L (<20 years), <60 U/L (20–80 years) and <70 U/L (>80 years).

Conclusions

By means of the OPUS::L “Population specific Reference Limits” tool we were able to establish our laborarotry specific reference interval for plasma lipase activity. The new reference limits helped to solve an old problem of implausible low elevated lipase values.
HIV Stigma Reduction Through Peer-Led Advocacy Training
Authors: Reif Susan , Cooper Haley , Wilson Elena , Brown Gina , Beckwith Nicole , Ward Dafina
Published: August 2021

HIV-related stigma is pervasive in the U.S. South and has potential negative effects on health outcomes and emotional well-being, and may act as a barrier to HIV-related advocacy among people living with HIV (PLWH). This article reports on the preliminary outcomes associated with participation in an HIV advocacy training for PLWH, LEAD, that included education and skills building for reducing HIV-related stigma. Fifty-seven PLWH at four sites in the U.S. South participated in the retreat-style training and completed a survey measuring stigma and comfort engaging in advocacy prior to and after the worshop. Participation was associated with statistically significant reduction in internalized HIV stigma and increase in comfort with participation in advocacy; however, participants reported a need for ongoing training and support to further increase comfort with advocacy participation. Although more research is needed on the LEAD Workshop, it shows promise as an option for reducing HIV-related stigma among PLWH.
Evaluating Locally Developed Interventions to Promote PrEP Among Racially/Ethnically Diverse Transgender Women in the United States: A Unique CDC Initiative
Authors: Rhodes Scott D. , Kuhns Lisa M. , Alexander Jasmine , Alonzo Jorge , Bessler Patricia A. , Courtenay-Quirk Cari , Denson Damian J. , Evans Kaiji , Galindo Carla A. , Garofalo Robert , Gelaude Deborah J. , Hotton Anna L. , Johnson Amy K. , Mann-Jackson Lilli , Muldoon Abigail , Ortiz Reyna , Paul Josie Lynne , Perloff Judy , Pleasant Kevin , Reboussin Beth A. , Refugio Aviles Lucero , Song Eunyoung Y. , Tanner Amanda E. , Trent Scott
Published: August 2021

In the United States, transgender women are disproportionately affected by HIV. However, few evidence-based prevention interventions exist for this key population. We describe two promising, locally developed interventions that are currently being implemented and evaluated through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Combination HIV Prevention for Transgender Women Project: (a) ChiCAS, designed to promote the uptake of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), condom use, and medically supervised hormone therapy among Spanish-speaking transgender Latinas, and (b) TransLife Care, designed to address the structural drivers of HIV risk through access to housing, employment, legal services, and medical services, including HIV preventive care (e.g., PrEP use) among racially/ethnically diverse urban transgender women. If the evaluation trials determine that these interventions are effective, they will be among the first such interventions for use with transgender women incorporating PrEP, thereby contributing to the evidence-based resources that may be used to reduce HIV risk among this population.
Neonatal White Matter Microstructure and Emotional Development during the Preschool Years in Children Who Were Born Very Preterm
Authors: Kanel Dana , Vanes Lucy D. , Pecheva Diliana , Hadaya Laila , Falconer Shona , Counsell Serena J. , Edwards David A. , Nosarti Chiara
Published: August 2021

Children born very preterm (<33 weeks of gestation) are at a higher risk of developing socio-emotional difficulties compared with those born at term. In this longitudinal study, we tested the hypothesis that diffusion characteristics of white matter (WM) tracts implicated in socio-emotional processing assessed in the neonatal period are associated with socio-emotional development in 151 very preterm children previously enrolled into the Evaluation of Preterm Imaging study (EudraCT 2009-011602-42). All children underwent diffusion tensor imaging at term-equivalent age and fractional anisotropy (FA) was quantified in the uncinate fasciculus (UF), inferior fronto-occipital fasciculus (IFOF), inferior longitudinal fasciculus (ILF), and superior longitudinal fasciculus (SLF). Children’s socio-emotional development was evaluated at preschool age (median = 4.63 years). Exploratory factor analysis conducted on the outcome variables revealed a three-factor structure, with latent constructs summarized as: “emotion moderation,” “social function,” and “empathy.” Results of linear regression analyses, adjusting for full-scale IQ and clinical and socio-demographic variables, showed an association between lower FA in the right UF and higher “emotion moderation” scores (β = −0.280;p < 0.001), which was mainly driven by negative affectivity scores (β = −0.281;p = 0.001). Results further showed an association between higher full-scale IQ and better social functioning (β = −0.334,p < 0.001). Girls had higher empathy scores than boys (β = −0.341,p = 0.006). These findings suggest that early alterations of diffusion characteristics of the UF could represent a biological substrate underlying the link between very preterm birth and emotional dysregulation in childhood and beyond.
Nutrient and stress tolerance traits linked to fungal responses to global change
Authors: Treseder Kathleen K. , Alster Charlotte J. , Cat Linh Anh , Gorris Morgan E. , Kuhn Alexander L. , Lovero Karissa G. , Hagedorn Frank , Kerekes Jennifer F. , McHugh Theresa A. , Solly Emily F.
Published: August 2021

In this case study analysis, we identified fungal traits that were associated with the responses of taxa to 4 global change factors: elevated CO2, warming and drying, increased precipitation, and nitrogen (N) enrichment. We developed a trait-based framework predicting that as global change increases limitation of a given nutrient, fungal taxa with traits that target that nutrient will represent a larger proportion of the community (and vice versa). In addition, we expected that warming and drying and N enrichment would generate environmental stress for fungi and may select for stress tolerance traits. We tested the framework by analyzing fungal community data from previously published field manipulations and linking taxa to functional gene traits from the MycoCosm Fungal Portal. Altogether, fungal genera tended to respond similarly to 3 elements of global change: increased precipitation, N enrichment, and warming and drying. The genera that proliferated under these changes also tended to possess functional genes for stress tolerance, which suggests that these global changes—even increases in precipitation—could have caused environmental stress that selected for certain taxa. In addition, these genera did not exhibit a strong capacity for C breakdown or P acquisition, so soil C turnover may slow down or remain unchanged following shifts in fungal community composition under global change. Since we did not find strong evidence that changes in nutrient limitation select for taxa with traits that target the more limiting nutrient, we revised our trait-based framework. The new framework sorts fungal taxa into Stress Tolerating versus C and P Targeting groups, with the global change elements of increased precipitation, warming and drying, and N enrichment selecting for the stress tolerators.
Reimagining futures
Authors: Tosca Mika G. , Galvin Adrian , Gilbert Ilai , Walls Kelvin L. , Tyler Grant E. , Nastan Abigail M.
Published: August 2021

As the climate crisis intensifies amid some persistent public denial of the science, there exists a necessary opportunity for scientists to engage in transdisciplinary collaborations, such as those with artists and designers, in an effort to both improve the communication of climate science, but also to bolster the production of scientific knowledge. We demonstrate how art and design can activate the human imagination and promote collaboration across disciplines in a way that the post-Enlightenment scientific endeavor has historically been unable to do and can provide a framework for developing sustainable solutions to the climate crisis. Here, we describe 2 studies that involved collaboration between artists and designers and climate scientists. The first study paired a team of designers and computer scientists with climate and atmospheric scientists from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in an effort to (re)build an exploratory research interface for the Multi-Angle Spectroradiometer Plume Height Project dataset. This project not only produced an aesthetic visualization interface with highly improved functionality, but it also demonstrated how an improved interface can enable scientists to pursue more and “better” research hypotheses. For the second study, we worked with artists at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago to create three sonic-based art pieces that effectively communicated the science of climate change, appealed to human aesthetic judgment, and expanded the scope of our “ecological awareness.” We show that, while collaborations between artists and scientists are not necessarily novel, the integration of art, design, and science from a project’s inception can improve both the production of knowledge and constitute an entry point for regular people to understand and engage with their rapidly changing planet.
MANAGEMENT OF ENDOCRINE DISEASE: Dysnatraemia in COVID-19: prevalence, prognostic impact, pathophysiology, and management
Authors: Tzoulis Ploutarchos , Grossman Ashley B , Baldeweg Stephanie E , Bouloux Pierre , Kaltsas Gregory
Published: August 2021

This review examines the prevalence, aetiology, pathophysiology, prognostic value, and investigation of dysnatraemia in hospitalised COVID-19 patients, taking into account all relevant studies published in PubMed and Cochrane Library studies until March 2021. Hyponatraemia is commonly observed in patients with bacterial pneumonia and is an independent predictor for excess mortality and morbidity. However, it remains unknown whether this association applies to coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19). Several studies reported a 20–35% prevalence for hyponatraemia and 2–5% for hypernatraemia in patients admitted with COVID-19. In addition, hyponatraemia on admission was a risk factor for progression to severe disease, being associated with an increased likelihood for the need for invasive mechanical ventilation, with an odds ratio (OR) of 1.83–3.30. Hyponatraemia seems to be an independent risk factor for mortality, with an OR of 1.40–1.50 compared to normonatraemia, while hypernatraemia is related to even worse outcomes than hyponatraemia. Furthermore, preliminary data show an inverse association between serum sodium and interleukin-6 levels, suggesting that hyponatraemia might be used as a surrogate marker for the risk of a cytokine storm and the need for treatment with interleukin antagonists. In conclusion, dysnatraemia is common and carries a poor prognosis in COVID-19 patients, indicating that it may play a future role in risk stratification and individualising therapy.
MECHANISMS IN ENDOCRINOLOGY: The physiology of neuronostatin
Authors: Andersen Mads R , Suppli Malte P , Bagger Jonatan I , Christensen Mikkel B , Yosten Gina L C , Knop Filip K , Lund Asger
Published: August 2021

In 2008, the first evidence of a new hormone called neuronostatin was published. The hormone was discovered using a bioinformatic method and found to originate from the same preprohormone as somatostatin. This small peptide hormone of 13 amino acids and a C-terminal amidation was soon found to exert pleiotropic physiological effects. In animal studies, neuronostatin has been shown to reduce food intake and delay gastric emptying and gastrointestinal transit. Furthermore, neuronostatin has been shown to affect glucose metabolism by increasing glucagon secretion during situations when glucose concentrations are low. Additionally, neuronostatin has been shown to affect neural tissue and cardiomyocytes by suppressing cardiac contractility. The effects of neuronostatin have not yet been delineated in humans, but if the effects found in animal studies translate to humans it could position neuronostatin as a promising target in the treatment of obesity, hypertension and diabetes. In this review, we describe the discovery of neuronostatin and the current understanding of its physiological role and potential therapeutic applicability.
Collagen type I enhances cell growth and insulin biosynthesis in rat pancreatic cells
Authors: Zhu Yingying , Liu Weiwei , Chen Shuaigao , Xu Fanxing , Zhang Luxin , Hayashi Toshihiko , Mizuno Kazunori , Hattori Shunji , Fujisaki Hitomi , Ikejima Takashi
Published: August 2021

Type I collagen (collagen I) is the most abundant component of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in the pancreas. We previously reported that collagen I-coated culture dishes enhanced proliferation of rat pancreatic β cell line, INS-1 cells, via up-regulation of β-catenin nuclear translocation. In this study, we further investigated the effects of collagen I on insulin production of INS-1 cells. The results indicate that insulin synthesis as well as cell proliferation is increased in the INS-1 cells cultured on the dishes coated with collagen I. Up-regulation of insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1R) on the INS-1 cells cultured on the collagen-coated dishes is involved in up-regulation of cell proliferation and increase of insulin biosynthesis; however, up-regulation of insulin secretion in the INS-1 cells on collagen I-coated dishes was further enhanced by inhibition of IGF-1R. Autophagy of INS-1 cells on collagen I-coated dishes was repressed via IGF-1R upregulation, and inhibition of autophagy with 3MA further enhanced cell proliferation and insulin biosynthesis but did not affect insulin secretion. E-cadherin/β-catenin adherent junction complexes are stabilized by autophagy. That is, autophagy negatively regulates the nuclear translocation of β-catenin that leads to insulin biosynthesis and cell proliferation. In conclusion, IGF-1R/downregulation of autophagy/nuclear translocation of β-catenin is involved in collagen I-induced INS-1 cell proliferation and insulin synthesis.
Insight into the deep eutectic solvent pretreatment of oil palm empty fruit bunches: Effects of temperature, empty fruit bunch to solvent ratio, and time
Authors: Harun Shuhaida , Mohd Tajuddin Aqilah , Abdul Latif Azuan , Mahmod Safa Senan , Sajab Mohd Shaiful , Markom Masturah , Md Jahim Jamaliah
Published: August 2021

This work aimed to comprehensively examine the pretreatment efficiency of oil palm empty fruit bunches (EFB) using two different types of deep eutectic solvent (DES) mixtures, i.e., choline chloride/imidazole (DES-I) and choline chloride/glycerol (DES-G) in terms of pretreated EFB structural composition and enzymatic hydrolysis. The influence of the pretreatment temperature (55 °C, 90 °C, 125 °C, 160 °C, and 195 °C), EFB to solvent ratio (1:5, 1:10, 1:15, and 1:20), and pretreatment time (2 h, 4 h, and 6 h) on the performance of pretreated EFB and the generated black liquor was examined. The optimal conditions for EFB pretreatment were 160 °C, 1:5 ratio, and 2 h using DES-I solvent, and 160 °C, 1:10 ratio and 4 h using DES-G solvent. The structural carbohydrates of empty fruit bunch pretreated with DES-I, DES-I EFB1 and DES-G, DES-G EFB2 increased to 66.1%, and 64.6%, respectively. The enzymatic hydrolysis of DES-I EFB1 resulted in higher glucan conversion (92.4%) compared to DES-G EFB2, indicating that DES-I solvent was more efficient than DES-G for EFB pretreatment. X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and variable-pressure scanning electron microscopy confirmed the removal of lignin and hemicelluloses from EFB during pretreatment and enzymatic hydrolysis.
Preparation of lignin-based mesoporous biochar nano- and microparticles, and their adsorption properties for hexavalent chromium
Authors: Hu Yu , Ling Meng , Li Xianfa
Published: August 2021

The removal performance and mechanism of Cr(VI) from aqueous solution was studied for a novel micro-nano particle kraft lignin biochar (BC) pyrolyzed at 400 to 700 °C. The physicochemical properties of BC were determined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and N2 adsorption-desorption isotherms. The results illustrated that the BC had irregular micro- and nanoparticles with abundant pore structure and high BET surface area (111.1 m2/g). The FT-IR results showed that the lower pyrolysis temperature resulted in more oxygen-containing functional groups. The Cr(VI) adsorption capacity decreased with the pyrolysis temperature increasing from 400 to 700 °C, and the maximum percentage removal of Cr(VI) for BC obtained at 400 °C was 100% at pH 2, which suggested that the removal efficiency was mainly dependent on functional groups. Kinetic analysis demonstrated that Cr(VI) adsorption on BC fit well to the pseudo-second-order kinetic model. The adsorption data was well fitted with the Langmuir isotherm models, and the maximum adsorption capacity was 37.2 mg/g at 298K. The BC could be reused twice with Cr(VI) removal of 63.91% and was suitable for Cr(VI) contaminated waste-water treatment.
Strength and stiffness of 3-ply industrial bamboo matting
Authors: Shmulsky Rubin , Correa Laurice Mara Spinelli , Quin Franklin
Published: August 2021

There is a pressing need to develop engineering standards for timber- and other wood-based mats suitable for supporting construction vehicles, etc. In 2018, a group of mat producers and users began discussing a potential grading standard specific to mats. There are large gaps in the literature regarding the performance of the available raw materials as well as bolt-laminated mat systems. This study addresses the issue of determining the strength and stiffness values of a commercially sourced industrial bamboo mat. A total of seven 8 ft × 14 ft (2.44 m × 4.27 m) commercial bamboo mats were cut into 28 billets that were 21.5 in (54.6 cm) in width. The bamboo mat billets were evaluated for bending stiffness (modulus of elasticity [MOE]) and strength (modulus of rupture [MOR]) using a three-point static bending test. The 5th percentile non-parametric tolerance limit (5% NTL) and design value for fiber stress in bending (Fb) were calculated. The mechanical property values measured for the 3-ply bamboo mat were at least 25% less than values reported for mixed hardwood timber mats. This type of structural performance information is helpful and useful in the development of matting standards, as it describes the minimum performance characteristics for this type of composite matting.
Recent advancements in biochar production according to feedstock classification, pyrolysis conditions, and applications: A review
Authors: Chun Youngsang , Lee Soo Kweon , Yoo Hah Young , Kim Seung Wook
Published: August 2021

Biochar is highly valuable in various applications due to its unique physicochemical properties such as high thermal efficiency, high surface area, surface functional groups, and crystal structure. The goal of this review is to establish a systematic strategy of biochar production for applications in various fields. First, the characteristics of biomass as feedstock for biochar production and their classification are discussed according to the types present in nature. Second, the technology for biochar production and the production yield are examined. In thermochemical conversion for biochar production, five major types of pyrolysis processes are suggested, and the production yield is evaluated according to pyrolysis parameters (feedstock pretreatment, operating temperature, heating rate, residence time, carrier gas). In addition, biochar production from pyrolysis of mixed feedstock has recently been suggested; thus, the evaluation of the production yield from co-pyrolysis is included. Finally, analytical techniques for biochar characterization are investigated and the application of biochar in various fields is considered, such as in adsorbents, energy storage devices, and catalysts.
Lignin functionalization strategies and the potential applications of its derivatives – A Review
Authors: Suota Maria Juliane , Kochepka Débora Merediane , Ganter Moura Marlon Gualberto , Pirich Cleverton Luiz , Matos Mailson , Magalhães Washington Luiz Esteves , Ramos Luiz Pereira
Published: August 2021

Lignin is one of the most important and widespread carbon sources on Earth. Significant amounts of lignin are delivered to the market by pulp mills and biorefineries, and there have been many efforts to develop routes for its valorization. Over the years, lignin has been used to produce biobased chemicals, materials, and advanced biofuels on the basis of its variable functionalities and physicochemical properties. Today, lignin’s applications are still limited by its heterogeneity, variability, and low reactivity. Thus, modification technologies have been developed to allow lignin to be suitable for a wider range of attractive industrial applications. The most common modifications used for this purpose include amination, methylation, demethylation, phenolation, sulfomethylation, oxyalkylation, acylation or esterification, epoxidation, phosphorylation, nitration, and sulfonation. This article reviews the chemistry involved in these lignin modification technologies, discussing their effect on the finished product while presenting some market perspectives and future outlook to utilize lignin in sustainable biorefineries.
A comparison between the effects of ozone and alkaline peroxide treatments on TMP properties and subsequent low consistency refining
Authors: Cheng Xue Feng , Olson James A. , Beatson Rodger P.
Published: August 2021

As part of a program to reduce electrical energy consumption in the refining process, the effects of the ozone and alkaline peroxide treatments on fibre and handsheet properties, prior and subsequent to low consistency (LC) refining, were assessed and compared by applying different levels of ozone and a range of peroxide and alkali charges to a primary stage hemlock thermomechanical pulp (TMP). Both highly alkaline peroxide treatments and ozone treatments decreased the specific energy required for strong mechanical pulp. The improvement in pulp strength through alkaline peroxide treatment mainly resulted from pulp surface changes caused by generation of acid groups. The highly alkaline peroxide treatments significantly increased pulp brightness but did not promote the further fibrillation during the subsequent LC refining. On the other hand, ozone treatments provided tensile strength increases, along with small brightness enhancements for the dark hemlock TMP, and increased the tensile gains obtained through LC refining. The effects of ozone treatments on tensile strength before and after LC refining were the result of pulp surface modifications, fibre swelling, and loss of fibre wall integrity due to non-selective chemical attack. High levels of ozone treatment caused tear strength to decrease during subsequent LC refining.
Literatura infantil y juvenil antiautoritaria en América Latina. Contrastes entre la literatura y la escuela al representar la realidad
Authors: Ocampo Alvarez Denise
Published: August 2021

El presente artículo ilustra cómo una parte de la literatura infantil y juvenil (LIJ) latinoamericana, en un inicio fuertemente ligada a la educación, adopta un discurso alternativo al representar la realidad. Para esto, se presentan coordenadas históricas y teóricas de la relación entre LIJ y educación; y luego, se ejemplifica con la literatura chilena sobre la dictadura militar y con la literatura cubana sobre los problemas sociales, entre ellos la calidad de la educación. El análisis inscribe estos corpus en la corriente neosubversiva de laLIJ de sesgo posmoderno, al entretejer varias modalidades encabezadas por el antiautoritarismo. Esto se ejerce desde un contraste con el discurso educativo, para enfocar de manera diferente las mismas realidades, representar negativamente la escuela y los docentes, o criticar sus discursos y comportamientos. Esta LIJ con visos infrapolíticos redimensiona las funciones literarias tradicionales y se alinea con el derecho a recibir información y el derecho a la participación social de la niñez y la adolescencia.
Vozes transgressoras na escola
Authors: Nascimento Robéria Nádia Araújo , Do Nascimento Thatiane Oliveira
Published: August 2021

O artigo, derivado de uma pesquisa em curso, adota as narrativas do funk para incursões sobre a problemática de gênero pelo viés da educação intercultural. Considerada uma expressão cultural híbrida, o funk insinua “performances” e linguagens de cunho sexista. Para verificar essa premissa no universo escolar, estudantes do 5º ano do ensino fundamental de uma escola pública paraibana desenvolveram uma perspectiva analítica das letras. Observou-se que o repertório instiga coreografias provocativas e é constituído por termos obscenos e/ou pejorativos que reverberam alusões depreciativas e discriminatórias em torno da mulher numa incitação da exploração sexual. Sugere-se, portanto, que a apropriação das letras do funk nos espaços-tempos escolares, por meio de observações semântico-culturais, pode fomentar reflexões pedagógicas sobre as questões do feminino.
Assessing resource utilisation in beef cattle feedlot system in Adamawa State, Nigeria
Authors: Ja’afar-Furo M.R. , Hamid M.Y. , Thlaffa A.Y. , Sulaiman A.
Published: August 2021

Abstract. This study assessed resource utilisation in beef cattle fattening units in Adamawa State, Nigeria, with the intent of highlighting some crucial areas that may require policy intervention for improvement. Purposive, multistage and random sampling methods were employed in selection of 270 beef cattle fatteners in the area studied. Structured questionnaire and group discussion were used in sourcing for data. The latter were analysed through descriptive statistics and efficiency methods of Data Enveloping Analysis (DEA). Results indicated that Sokoto gudali (72.60%) and Rahaji (20.00%) were the major cattle breeds adopted for fattening. While a total of 70.70% of fatteners fed bulls for a period of 4-6 months and in the open without shade (77.80%), the use of combination of crop residues and conventional feeds was the most popular (74.81%) in feeding stock in the State. Further, the most important resources were initial cost of bulls and cost of feeds with N169,056.00 and N10,559.00 per bull, respectively. Resources were found to be efficiently utilised within the beef cattle feedlot farms with Constant Return to Scale (CRS), Non-Increasing Return to Scale (NIRTS), Variable Return to Scale (VRS), Scale Efficiency (SE) and Return to Scale RTS) models mean scores of 84.44%, 84.44%, 91.48%, 84.74%, and 100%, respectively. Conclusively, it could be stated that indigenous breeds of Sokoto gudali and Rahaji were the main bulls used for fattening in the State, and a mixture of crop residues and conventional feeds was the popular plane of feeding stock, with most farms utilising resources efficiently. Stemming from the findings, soft credit facilities to accord fatteners afford initial off-setting cost of bulls and frequent extension services to same, for modernisation of beef cattle feedlot system are highly recommended.
Determination of eight kinds of glucocorticoids residues in chicken muscle with on-line clean up combined HPLC-MS/MS
Authors: Yang Yahua , Xue Zhizhong , Meng Ran , Wu Zhe , Li Zhaojia , Zhang Wei , Ge Shihui
Published: August 2021

A sensitive and rapid method using HPLC-MS/MS was developed for the determination of eight glucocorticoids residues in chicken muscle simultaneously by Turbo Flow. The eight glucocorticoids were prednisone, prednisolone, hydrocortisone, methylprednisolone, dexamethasone, betamethasone, beclomethasone and fludrocortisones. Samples were extracted with ethyl acetate and on-line cleaned up through a Turbo Flow solid-phase extraction column without time-consuming pretreatment before HPLC-MS/MS analysis. Sample pretreatment conditions, Turbo Flow conditions and mass spectral parameters were optimized and obtained eight glucocorticoids calibration curves. These curves showed good linearity over the concentration from 0.2 μg/kg to 50 μg/kg with an average recovery from 71.63% to 117.36%. This method could be applied on real samples and provided simple, rapid, sensitive and highly selective analysis, which made it feasible to be adopted in food inspection organizations or carry out quantitative analysis for other banned substance.
Spatial correlation between soil and leaf macronutrients in semiarid Brazilian mango (Mangifera indica L.) fields
Authors: Lira Aíris Layanne Ferreira , Silva Kátia Araújo da , Rodrigues Marcos Sales , Souza Clerison Gustavo Pereira , Moreira Filipe Bernard Ramos , Lima Augusto Miguel Nascimento
Published: August 2021

Abstract Understanding the relationship between the levels of nutrients in the soil and those found in the plant is of fundamental importance for site-specific fertility management in mango (Mangifera indica L.) crop fields. This study aimed to evaluate the spatial distribution of macronutrient contents both in the soil and in the leaf and their correlations in commercial mango orchards under semiarid region conditions and to delimit the management zones using soil and leaf data. The experiment was carried out in three commercial areas in San Francisco Valley, Brazil, cultivated with irrigated mango. Soil samples were collected in 0-0.2 and 0.2-0.4 m depths as well as leaf samples following sample grids. Ca, Mg, K, P, and N contents from soil and leaf samples were determined. Descriptive and geostatistics analyses were performed. Co-kriging was used for the delimitation of management zones. Positive spatial correlations were obtained between soil Ca2+ and leaf Ca contents (R2 = 0.80-0.93), soil K+ and leaf K contents (R2 = 0.35-0.61), and soil Mg2+ and leaf P contents (R2 = 0.51). Negative correlations were observed for soil Mg2+ and leaf Ca contents(R2 = 0.79-0.93) and soil Mg2+ and leaf K contents (R2 = 0.98). The soil 0-0.2 m depth had the greatest influence on mango Ca and K uptake. The negative correlation between soil Mg2+ and leaf Ca shows the competition existing in the plant uptake process. It was possible to delimit specific management zones using co-kriging for the three areas using soil and leaf data.
The role of Hartmann’s procedure in the elective management of rectal cancer: results of a Brazilian cohort study
Authors: LAZZARON ANDERSON RECH , SILVEIRA INGRID , MACHADO PAULINE SIMAS , DAMIN DANIEL C
Published: August 2021

ABSTRACT Background: although preservation of bowel continuity is a major goal in rectal cancer surgery, a colorectal anastomosis may be considered an unacceptably high-risk procedure, particularly for patients with multiple comorbidities. We aimed to assess rates of surgical complications in rectal cancer patients according to the type of procedure they had undergone. Materials and Methods: this cohort included all rectal cancer patients undergoing elective resection at a referral academic hospital over 16 years. There were three study groups according to the type of performed operation: (1) rectal resection with anastomosis without defunctioning stoma (DS); (2) rectal resection with anastomosis and DS; and (3) Hartmann’s procedure (HP). Postoperative complications and clinical outcomes were assessed. Results: four-hundred and two patients were studied. The 118 patients in group 3 were significantly older (>10 years), had higher Charlson Comorbidity Index scores, and more ASA class ≥3 than patients in the other two groups. Sixty-seven patients (16.7%) had Clavien-Dindo complications grade ≥ III, corresponding to an incidence of 11.8%, 20.9%, and 14.4% in groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively (p=0.10). Twenty-nine patients (7.2%) had major septic complications that required reoperation, with an incidence of 10.8%, 8.2% and 2.5% in groups 1, 2 and 3, respectively (p=0.048). Twenty-one percent of the group 2 patients did not undergo the stoma closure after a 24-month follow-up. Conclusion: HP was associated with a lower incidence of reoperation due to intra-abdominal septic complications. This procedure remains an option for patients in whom serious surgical complications are anticipated.
História da ciência, epistemologia e dialética
Authors: Silva Edson Pereira , Arcanjo Fernanda Gonçalves
Published: August 2021

Resumo: Neste trabalho, são discutidas teses sobre a atividade científica, na sua realidade histórica concreta, fundamentando-se no racionalismo aplicado de Bachelard e no materialismo histórico-dialético de Marx e Engels. Para tanto, são definidos e analisados dois aspectos da atividade científica, chamados de aspectos epistemológico e ontológico. Neles são abordadas, respectivamente, as relações de tensionamento e dupla realização entre a ciência e o seu referencial (a realidade) e as relações materiais estabelecidas entre os elementos presentes na produção do conhecimento científico (linguagem, tradição, técnicas, condições socioeconômicas etc.), sempre se lançando mão de episódios ilustrativos da história da biologia. Em consequência, a realidade histórica concreta da ciência é definida como aquela de um movimento de contradições e sínteses, animado pela acumulação quantitativa e episódios de saltos qualitativos.
La condición del académico en la época técnica1
Authors: Caraballo Germán Ulises Bula , García Hernan Ferney Rodríguez
Published: August 2021

Resumen: El siguiente artículo explora el condicionamiento del académico bajo lo que Heidegger, en su discusión sobre la esencia de la técnica, llama la estructura de emplazamiento. Particularmente, el quehacer de las humanidades está siendo dominada por instancias externas que ponderan la utilidad y lo medible métricamente por sobre lo cualitativo e inmanente a este trabajo. En ese sentido, el humanista se enfrenta a la reificación del conocimiento en medio de una empresa cultural que socava el contenido auténtico, a través de un aparataje de burocracias de mercado que ve el trabajo de las humanidades como una mercancía más. El trabajo del humanista consiste en convivir con los problemas propios de nuestro tiempo para ganar en lucidez, con la intención de apropiarse y responsabilizarse de las condiciones que enfrenta y las nuevas dimensiones de la acción humana capaces de contrarrestarla.
Tradução Observações sobre a Personalidade autoritária, de Adorno, Frenkel-Brunswik, Levinson e Sanford
Authors: Costa Virginia Helena Ferreira da
Published: August 2021

Resumo: Esta é a tradução inédita de um capítulo escrito por Theodor W. Adorno, em 1948, que integraria o livro The Authoritarian Personality, publicado em 1950, mas que acabou não incluído na obra. Nesse capítulo, Adorno pretende delinear em contornos mais precisos o conceito de “antropologia” do tipo autoritário, exposto na obra. O autor o descreve de forma bastante precisa: não sendo uma abordagem psicológica, nem sociológica, muito menos existencialista e religiosa, a antropologia do autoritário retratada aqui denota parte da formação hegemônica de indivíduos sob influência do capitalismo administrado. A tradução é precedida por um texto introdutório (de autoria da tradutora), o qual apresenta e contextualiza o capítulo traduzido e o relaciona com o livro original, publicado em 1950.