bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of Candidemia with Susceptibility Pattern in a Tertiary Care Hospital in North India
Authors: William Ashish , Oberoi Aroma , Dsouza Divya , Oberoi Arpit
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND Blood stream infections (BSI) caused by various candida species have been reported from many countries worldwide and are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in hospitalised patients. The alarming increase in infections with multidrug resistant bacteria is due to overuse of broad-spectrum antimicrobials, which leads to over growth of candida species; thus, enhancing its opportunity to cause the disease. During recent decades, there has been a change in the epidemiology of candida infections, characterised by a progressive shift from a predominance of Candida albicans to non-albicans candida species. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of candidemia in blood stream and the susceptibility pattern in a tertiary care hospital in North India. METHODS This is retrospective study which has been conducted for a period of 1.5 years form April 2015 to October 2016. All blood cultures received during this period by BACTEC automated culture system and Becton Dickinson were included in the study. The culture was done on positive blood culture bottles and were cultured on Sabouraud dextrose agar. Recovered candida isolates were speciated and antifungal susceptibility testing was performed as per Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines (CLSI). RESULTS A total of 80 out of 8020 blood cultures were culture positive for candida species. Therefore, the overall prevalence rate of isolation of candida species was 0.99 % in our study. The incidence of blood stream infection caused by non albicans candida species (73.8 %) was higher than Candida albicans (26.2 %). Among NAC species, Candida tropicalis (44 %) was the most common, followed by Candida parapsilosis (24 %), Candida glabrata (17 %), Candida krusei (8.5 %), Candida guilliermondii (5 %) and Candida dubliniensis (1.5 %). Candidemia was predominantly observed in ICU patients. Resistance was significantly higher among non-albicans candida species (NAC), amphotericin B, fluconazole, ketoconazole, itraconazole and clotrimazole - 96.72 %, 59.84 %, 51.23 %, 19.44 %, and 56.15 % respectively. CONCLUSIONS With an ever-expanding array of non-candida species-related infections in highly compromised and terminally ill patients, understanding the activity of the antifungal agents used against both C. albicans and nonalbicans species becomes mandatory. Continued surveillance of candida infections will be required to document changes in epidemiology and antifungal susceptibilities. KEYWORDS Bloodstream Infections, Candidemia, Non Albicans Candida (NAC)
Full Outline of Unresponsiveness Score versus Glasgow Coma Scale in Assessing Patients with Isolated Traumatic Head Injury
Authors: Nayak Ashok Kumar , Das Srikanta , Hoogar Prafullachandra
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND Traumatic head injury is one of the most common causes of mortality all over the world. Substantial initial assessment of head injury and its intensity in these patients is the primary goal for medical treatment. Hence, there is a necessity for a score better than GCS for the assessment of head injury patients. FOUR score, a new coma scale was published by Wijdicks in 2005. It included 4 components, motor response, eye response, brainstem reflex, and respiration. It precisely assesses the neurological activity as it includes the brain stem reflexes and eliminates the verbal component and identifies locked-in syndromes, temporal lobe herniations and third nerve dysfunctions which GCS fails to do so. We wanted to evaluate the correlation between FOUR score and GCS in evaluating the level of consciousness in patients with head injuries and evaluate the interobserver reliability of both the above-mentioned scores. METHODS This is an observational prospective study conducted on 92 patients with isolated traumatic head injury admitted to Department of General Surgery, VIMSAR, Burla, from November 2018 to October 2020. The parameters that were evaluated were clinical examination at the time of admission, were blood pressure (BP), temperature, pulse, and respiratory rate at the time of admission. Assessment of GCS and FOUR score at the time of admission, at 6 th hour, 24th hour and daily assessment till discharge. RESULTS A total of 92 isolated traumatic head injury patients were included in the study. Number of females (19.5 %) were significantly less when compared to males. The Pearson correlation coefficient between FOUR score and GCS was calculated to be 0.945, 0.962 and 0.951 respectively at the time of presentation, after 6 hours and isolated traumatic head injury. After 24 hours in patients with isolated traumatic head injury, Cohen’s weighted Kappa of GCS and FOUR score inter reliability was 0.956 and 0.985 respectively. Area under receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) for GCS and FOUR score with Modified Rankins Score was 0.951 and 0.951. Area under ROC for mortality for GCS and FOUR score was 0.974 and 0.997 respectively. CONCLUSIONS As per our results, there is an excellent correlation between GCS and FOUR score in head injury patients. The FOUR score aims to overcome these shortcomings with a scale that is both simple to use and comprehensive in its overall neurologic assessment of the isolated traumatic head injury patients. FOUR score might prove to be a better tool to evaluate the consciousness of head injury patients and help in detection and stratification of these patients and in monitoring the efficiency of ongoing treatment. KEYWORDS Four Score, GCS, Head Injury
How Does Aspartate Aminotransferase-to-Platelet Ratio Index (APRI) Hold Up in Predicting Adverse Outcomes and Prognosis among Patients with Chronic Liver Disease Compared to Other Liver Scoring Systems?
Authors: Gosavi Siddharth , Sangamesh Samarth , Rao Amogh Ananda , Shastry Shashank , Hulikal Aishwarya , Mendiratta Ayushi
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND Chronic liver disease is the progressive destruction of liver for 6 months thereby impairing clotting factor formation, bile metabolism, and protein synthesis. ChildPugh-Turcotte (CTP) score, model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) and MELD– sodium (Na) are well established calculated parameters to predict prognosis in chronic liver disease (CLD) patients. This study was conducted to determine as to how aspartate aminotransferase : platelet ratio index (APRI) fares in predicting adverse outcomes and prognosis among patients with chronic liver disease compared to other liver scoring. METHODS This was a cross-sectional hospital-based study of inpatients admitted in the department of General Medicine at Chigateri General Hospital. MELD, MELD-Na, Child-Pugh-Turcotte score, and APRI index, were applied and calculated on all the 50 patients to stage the chronic liver disease, and were followed up for 3 months. RESULTS 19 patients survived and 31 patients died. Among the 31 dead patients, 24 had MELD score of greater than 21.5 points. Sensitivity of MELD & MELD-Na in predicting mortality was 77.42 %. Diagnostic accuracy for both scores was 74 %. All patients who died had a Child Pugh score of greater than 10. The sensitivity of CTP scoring was 100 % and diagnostic accuracy was 98 %. 76 % of our patients experienced severe fibrosis according to APRI index. 4 % experienced significant fibrosis. 20 % of the patients did not have significant fibrosis. The least sensitivity (61.29 %) and diagnostic accuracy (62 %) was observed with APRI. However, positive predictive value was 73.08 % and diagnostic accuracy was 65 % for mortality. CONCLUSIONS Given the minimal investigations required in calculating APRI, it can be used as a fair indicator predicting status of the patient especially in resource limited settings. KEYWORDS Child Pugh Turcotte Score, APRI Index, MELD Score, MELD Na Score
A Cross Sectional Study on Covid-19 Related Anxiety Disorders amongst the Population Working from Home during the Pandemic in the State of Karnataka, South India
Authors: Jotibannad Darshan Yallappa , Singh Ayushi Devendra
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND Covid-19 has caused significant distress worldwide. It not only causes physical symptoms but also takes a toll on the mental well-being of an individual. A plethora of people develop the psychological disorders due to the pandemic. This study was an attempt to explore the occurrence of anxiety and its severity levels among the people working from home during the pandemic period. METHODS A cross sectional online survey was conducted by sharing Zung self-administered anxiety questionnaire using Google form. Informed consent was obtained from 105 participants and snowball sampling method was used in the study. The chi square and P-value were also calculated to determine the level of significance and association between different variables. RESULTS Out of 105 participants, 15 (14.28 %) were found to have anxiety disorder. Males were found to have higher anxiety levels than females. Higher numbers came from those living in a joint family and who were married. CONCLUSIONS Early identification of psychological distress and timely intervention will improve quality of life of an individual and will also reduce the severity of the psychological sequalae. KEYWORDS Pandemic, Anxiety, Covid-19, Mental Health
Johannes Kepler: un diálogo sobre la Reforma, la ciencia y la cultura
Authors: Ánjel Memo , Carvajal Godoy Johman
Published: April 2021

Este libro de investigación tiene el propósito de explorar la vida, sin ser una biografía, de uno de los científicos más importantes de la historia del pensamiento humano entre los siglos XVI y XVII: Johannes Kepler. La investigación se ha escrito bajo la figura del diálogo entre los dos autores siguiendo los hitos que marcaron la vida y la obra de Kepler: la caracterización de los tiempos difíciles en los que vivió, en una Europa dividida por las guerras religiosas entre católicos y protestantes, y la herencia del oscuro mundo medieval germano; su formación como pastor luterano en la Universidad de Tubinga, que preparaba la juventud luterana en la lucha por la supremacía religiosa y cultural en Europa; sus dificultades con el pensamiento ortodoxo reformista, particularmente con las ideas luteranas y el impacto de su obra en sí mismo, en el pensamiento moderno y en nuestros días.
O DIREITO À SAÚDE PARA PACIENTES COM TRANSTORNO DO ESPECTRO AUTISTA
Authors: Do Val Renata
Published: April 2021

O presente artigo versa sobre o direito à saúde e tratamentos aos pacientes portadores do transtorno do espectro autista. Tal tema é de suma importância por tratar dos principais bens jurídicos tutelados: a vida e a saúde. Pacientes portadores do TEA sofrem com recusas de cobertura das terapias e tratamentos atuais como a psicoterapia no método ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis), limitação ao número de sessões de tratamento como atendimentos por fonoaudiólogos ou sessões de psicoterapia, e outros, prescritos pelos seus médicos assistentes quando procuram a cobertura contratual de seus convênios privados. Necessitam buscar a cobertura, via de regra, junto ao Poder Judiciário, sendo que no presente artigo discutiremos a legalidade da cobertura do tratamento integral a esses pacientes tornando de fato efetivo seu direito à saúde.
LIMITES E POSSIBILIDADES DA INTELIGÊNCIA ARTIFICIAL APLICADA AO DIREITO: ESTADO DA ARTE NO BRASIL
Authors: Oliveira Júnior Ezio , Leonel Vilson
Published: April 2021

O artigo analisa o estado da arte da aplicação de soluções baseadas em Inteligência Artificial (IA) ao Direito no Brasil. A metodologia utilizada foi a pesquisa exploratória, com abordagem qualitativa.  Em relação à coleta de dados, é estudo bibliográfico e documental, valendo-se de publicações em livros, leis, artigos científicos, teses e dissertações. Procedeu-se ainda um levantamento por meio eletrônico com operadores de direito que atuam no setor privado.  A partir da análise dos dados identificou-se a existência de relevantes possibilidades de aplicação de IA ao direito nos setores público e privado, tais como a análise preditiva de decisões e a sugestão automática de minuta de sentenças, além de projetos de grande envergadura, em desenvolvimento, tudo no sentido de aumentar celeridade, a assertividade e a produtividade, na prestação jurisdicional. Mas são identificados ainda limites de caráter Ético-filosóficos, como o risco de viés de algoritmo, e outros de perfil técnico, como a dificuldade de auditoria dos sistemas, requerendo algum esforço para serem superados. Também se identificou a necessidade do estabelecimento de um marco legal em relação às aplicações de Inteligência Artificial. O meio jurídico brasileiro revela uma movimentação intensa, fruto do que traz a transformação digital, em termos de possibilidade de se proporcionar às pessoas melhores condições de acesso à justiça, através de uma prestação jurisdicional mais assertiva, rápida e barata. A superação dos limites deve ser apenas uma questão de tempo, uma vez que as condições para tal parecem estar estabelecidas
30 ANOS DE CDC: DUAS GRANDES PERSONALIDADES HISTÓRICAS DO DIREITO DO CONSUMIDOR
Authors: Moraes Oliveira Júlio
Published: April 2021

O presente texto traz para discussão duas personalidades importantes do direito do consumidor. Uma estrangeira e outra nacional. Nesses 30 anos de CDC é importante destacar pessoas que tiveram um papel relevante na implementação dessa importante lei. Para tanto, faz-se uma análise da trajetória e dos discursos de Emilio Antônio Sousa Aguiar Nina Ribeiro e também do Presidente John F. Kennedy.
Food consumption and use of Cerrado fruits in quilombola communities in Goiás
Authors: Borges Thaís Cristina , Silva Priscila Olin , Santiago Raquel de Andrade Cardoso , Monego Estelamaris Tronco
Published: April 2021

The aims of this study were to explore the qualitative food consumption and to investigate the use of native fruits of the Brazilian Cerrado biome by quilombola communities of Goiás, Brazil. Data collection was performed through interviews with leaders of communities who participated in the I Meeting of Health and Quality of Life of Quilombola Communities of Goiás. It was identified a food consumption restricted to basic items with recurrent presence of rice, pumpkin, potato, okra, banana, cassava, corn, beans, sesame, peanuts and castor oil in the usual diet. The presence of Cerrado fruits in sweets, liqueurs, canned and some salty recipes was identified, being the main, pequi, mangaba, baru, jatobá and cagaita. There was a reduction in the consumption of several native fruits, but at the same time, it was identified that there is a recognition by the communities regarding the importance of the use and preservation of these foods and quilombola eating practices. It reinforces the importance of actions to rescue and enhance the quilombola food culture, which dialogue with food and nutritional security and with the local development of the communities.
Racismo camuflado na “família ferroviária”
Authors: Ferreira Lania Stefanoni
Published: April 2021

Este artigo é fruto da minha dissertação de mestrado que tem como tema o estudo das relações entre trabalhadores brancos e negros da Companhia Paulista de Estrada de Ferro entre 1930 e 1961. Seu objetivo é entender como era a convivência entre esses dois grupos, como eles construíram suas identidades no cotidiano de trabalho e a existência ou não de desigualdades raciais. Para realizar este estudo foram entrevistados vinte trabalhadores aposentados da Companhia Paulista que residem na cidade de São Carlos.
A criação de municípios no Brasil
Authors: Mota Junior Vidal Dias da
Published: April 2021

Nos últimos anos, a criação de municípios tornou-se um dos fenômenos da política brasileira que mais despertou interesse nas diversas áreas das ciências sociais. Portanto, esse trabalho objetiva destacar os principais estudos e os seus respectivos perfis adotados para a compreensão do fenômeno criacionista municipal. Analisaram-se os estudos mais conhecidos e identificou-se que existe uma pluralidade na interpretação do fenômeno, pluralidade esta que ainda não esgotou as possibilidades de interpretação e de discussão sobre a temática.
Cultura e política
Authors: Szwako José Eduardo , Costa Luiz Domingos
Published: April 2021

Como se relacionam as esferas cultural e política? Como as Ciências Sociais vêm respondendo à constatação de que Cultura e Política não apenas se relacionam, mas se determinam? Em torno dessas questões, as contribuições deste dossiê trazem chaves-interpretativas que em cada campo disciplinar – Ciência Política, Antropologia e Sociologia – tentam ‘culturalizar a política’, bem como ‘politizar a cultura’.
Performance e percepção
Authors: Nespoli Eduardo
Published: April 2021

Este trabalho explora o tema da transformação corporal e da criação artística, tendo como foco a relação do corpo e as tecnologias audiovisuais. Para estudar estas relações, investiguei no ritual xamanístico denominado maraká, realizado pelo povo indígena Asuriní do Xingu, os elementos operacionais de sua performance, as relações que o xamã e o wanapy - papéis rituais do maraká - desenvolvem com a preparação do espaço e o manuseio de objetos plásticos enquanto agentes de sua transformação corporal. Acompanhei o processo de preparação do espaço ritual do maraká e assisti à realização de ritos. Esta investigação, por sua vez, forneceu recursos para observar uma relação específica entre os corpos e as tecnologias contemporâneas: estes elementos são utilizados para transformar as percepções. Tecendo este tema, abordado a partir desta perspectiva, criei uma instalação interativa utilizando recursos tecnológicos digitais, cujos conteúdos referem-se à experiência de campo.
Um duplo encontro
Authors: Scachetti Rodolfo Eduardo
Published: April 2021

Como olhar a escultura da mulher com gavetas de Salvador Dalí? Como um convite para perscrutar os mistérios do humano pós-freudiano? Certamente sim. Este artigo tem por objetivo percorrer hipóteses já clássicas sobre a especificidade do humano, assim como outras hipóteses mais contemporâneas sobre a co-evolução entre os humanos e os não-humanos. Estas últimas nos fazem pensar que, ao lado da figuração de Dalí de um humano com gavetas, nós podemos descobrir também gavetas antropomórficas repletas de magia.
The (faltering) renaissance of theory in higher education careers practice
Authors: Winter David , Yates Julia
Published: April 2021

This article charts the changes in career development theory and practice within UK higher education over the past two (and a bit) decades. We outline some of the social, economic and political drivers that have influenced both theory and practice over this time and examine the extent to which theory and practice have influenced each other - revealing a paucity of dialogue between theory and practice at a strategic service delivery level. We end with some suggestions for bringing these two strands closer and a call for further evaluation of the potential for theory to inform practice and vice versa.
The development of career guidance roles and their professionalism: 1999-2020
Authors: Gough John
Published: April 2021

Between 1999-2020, career practitioner roles in England have rapidly morphed. Entry routes, and qualification frameworks have changed too. But one significant factor features consistently: the lack of a legal requirement for an accredited qualification to practise. In the face of major political and structural changes to the profession this article explores how guidance and its practitioners have sought to re-define and re-claim their sense of professionalism.
Career development and older people
Authors: Barham Lyn
Published: April 2021

This article explores career development support offered to, and used by, older people since 2000. The context includes changes in age discrimination legislation and state pension entitlement, which intertwine in their effect on labour market participation. Career development services have changed, with a marked divergence between the fragmented delivery in England and the all-age services elsewhere in the UK. Initiatives have been piloted, judged successful, but not robustly pursued. The article argues that rhetoric outruns resources and delivery, and contemplates the additional complication of the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on older people and the economy.
Memories of Bill Gothard
Authors: McCash Phil , Mignot Phil
Published: April 2021

Not available
An evaluation of Ukrainian future teachers’ of humanities readiness for e-education
Authors: Tkachenko Vadym , Chychuk Vadym , Zakharevich Mykola , Nenko Yuliia
Published: April 2021

The article focuses on the students’ readiness for online education in Ukrainian pedagogical higher education institutions, since distance learning is not only a new learning technology for teachers-to-be, but also the object of their study and further application in the pedagogical career. The study employed the authors’ questionnaires for 120 faculty members and 320 students, observations and diagnostic tests. To assess the students’ current readiness for e-learning, the following criteria were employed: independence in the acquisition of knowledge, cognitive activity, mastering methods of online education activities. Characteristics of levels of students’ readiness for e-learning are given. The need for initial training of teachers and students to use distance learning technologies is confirmed. Analysis of research data revealed mostly medium and sufficient level of teachers’-to-be independence of learning, cognitive activity and experience of application of online educational activities. Basic conceptual positions and conditions for effective e-learning in Ukrainian pedagogical higher education institutions as prerequisites for students’ readiness for e-education are described.
Problem legitimnog predstavljanja Hrvata u Domu naroda Parlamenta Federacije Bosne i Hercegovine
Authors: Grbavac Valentino
Published: April 2021

U članku se analizira problem legitimnog predstavljanja Hrvata u Domu naroda Parlamenta Federacije Bosne i Hercegovine (FBIH) koristeći se konsocijacijalizmom, „fenomenom čiče Tome“ i jednosmjernim udruživanjem glasova kao teorijskim prizmama analize problema. Prvo se sažima povijest Doma naroda Parlamenta Federacije Bosne i Hercegovine te analizira značenje amandmana koje je Ustavu FBiH nametnuo visoki predstavnik Wolfgang Petritsch 2002. godine i značenje presude Ustavnog suda Bosne i Hercegovine U-23-14 Ljubić iz 2016. godine. Zatim se analizira realističan scenarij potpunog izbacivanja hrvatskih predstavnika iz vladajuće koalicije na svim razinama vlasti zbog neprovođenja presude Ljubić i mogućnost jednostranih izmjena Ustava FBiH koje mogu donijeti stranke bošnjačke većine nakon općih izbora 2022. godine. Naposljetku, raspravlja se o problemu operacionalizacije legitimnog predstavljanja Hrvata u Domu naroda Federacije Bosne i Hercegovine i njegovu potencijalnom alternativnom rješenju. Glavni je argument članka da zbog nedostataka izbornog zakona i nelogične operacionalizacije konsocijacijskih karakteristika u FBiH Hrvati nisu u stanju birati vlastite legitimne predstavnike u Hrvatski klub Doma naroda Parlamenta FBiH, za njih najvažniju političku instituciju u Bosni i Hercegovini.
Core Temperature Parameters in Elite Sailors during the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Test Event
Authors: Grushin Alexander , Ogurtsova Mariya , Lemesheva Yulia , Zotkin Sergey , Ilin Daniil , Zelenkova Irina
Published: April 2021

Objective On the eve of the summer Olympic Games in Tokyo research focus has shifted on the core temperature responses of elite athletes competing in the heat. In the absence of the field data of core temperature during Olympic sailing competition aim of the present study was to identify core temperature response during the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Test Event. Methods Four elite athletes from Olympic sailing (177.5±5.2 cm, 71.1±7.4 kg, body mass index 22.5±1.4 kg/m2, 24.8±3.7 yrs, VO2max 50.6±7.2 mL/min/kg)): 2 males and 2 females participated in the study. Core temperature was recorded using e-Celsius ingestible capsules, heart rate using a heart rate monitor. Ambient conditions in direct sunlight were measured using portable meteo station. Results Core temperature was recorded at water environment via an ingestible capsule in 4 sailors during the training (T), and competition (C), respectively. Ambient conditions in direct sunlight were hot and humid: during training temperature were 30.9°C±1.7°C and relative humidity 81.4%±2.8%, corresponding to a wet-bulb globe temperature of 41°C±4°C and during competition temperature was 31.2°C±2.3°C and relative humidity 87.2%±4.4%, corresponding to a wet-bulb globe temperature of 45.2°C±8.9°C. Core temperature increased during training reaching higher peak values (38.6°C±0.4°C) and during competition (38.9°C±0.4°C). The highest temperature recorded was 39.4°C (C). Conclusion The current study provides unique information into the core temperature parameters under heat stress in elite Olympic sailors during training and race event.
Simulation of Matrix Converter by using MATLAB-Simulink
Authors: Deshpande Abhinav Vinod
Published: April 2021

The matrix converter converts the input line voltage into a variable voltage with an unrestricted output frequency without using an intermediate circuit, dc link circuit. A pure sine in and pure sine out is the unique feature of the matrix converter. This research paper also analyzes the basic operating principle and the simulation modeling of the direct matrix converter, which is controlled by the Space Vector Pulse Width Modulation technique by using the software which is known as MATLAB/Simulink. The most desirable features in the power frequency changes can be fulfilled by using the matrix converters, and this is the reason for the tremendous interest in the topology. Since the power electronic circuits which is known as the motor drives are used to operate the AC motors at the frequencies other than that of the supply.
Analysis of Crisis Management of a Korean Fitness Center during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: kwon Jae-Yoon , Kim Jun-Su , Park Tae-Seung
Published: April 2021

: The purpose of this research was to verify the importance and performance of crisis management in Korean fitness center using Importance-Performance Analysis (IPA). For this study, 304 fitness center executives and managers in Seoul and Gyeonggi region were selected as from March 21 to May 17, 2020. Frequency analysis was performed using SPSS 24.0 and exploratory factor analysis was conducted to verify the validity and reliability. Priority analysis and IPA analysis were performed to compare the mean values, and the following results were obtained. First, in the first quadrant, there were 6 attributes besides keep social distancing between employees and customers. Second, in the second quadrant, there were four attributes in addition to regular disinfection of the gymnasium. Third, in the third quadrant, there were 6 attributes besides maintain furniture clean. Third, there were 6 attributes other than maintaining furniture clean in the third quadrant. Fourth, in the fourth quadrant, there are three attributes in addition to the restriction of face-to-face meetings. The conclusion is as follows. First, equip supplies for prevention of covid19, keep social distance, and check government support policies. Second, analyze of economic support policies, and research on their application methods. Third, Prepare various non-face-to-face communication methods and Untact(non-contact) marketing strategies. Fourth, make a checklist for factors with relatively little importance.
Aplicación de Técnicas SIG y A-DinSAR al análisis de movimientos del terreno en Guayaquil (Ecuador)
Authors: Carrillo Bravo Jeremy Antonio , Dominguez-Cuesta María José , Cuevas-Mons José
Published: April 2021

En este trabajo se ha realizado el análisis y cuantificación de las características del terreno del área metropolitana de la ciudad de Guayaquil y las aledañas de Samborondón y Durán (provincia del Guayas, Ecuador), aplicando una metodología basada en técnicas A-DinSAR y SIG. Para ello, se han utilizado imágenes del satélite Envisat ASAR correspondientes al período 2003-2005 que han permitido obtener una serie de puntos con velocidades de desplazamiento en la dirección de la línea de vista del satélite (LOS), expresada en mm/año. Se han diferenciado tres áreas: 2 de ellas áreas urbanas, situadas sobre depósitos aluviales con relieve suave y pendientes inferiores a 12º con velocidades medias de desplazamiento que pueden llegar a -20,7 – -10,0 /-10,0 – -5,0 mm/año, afectadas por inundaciones periódicas por el desbordamiento del Río Guayas; la tercera es un área urbana sobre una de las laderas de la Cordillera Chongón Colonche, donde se observa un antiguo deslizamiento con velocidades medias de desplazamiento entre -2,0 – 2,0/2,0 – 5,0 mm/año, afectando a depósitos coluviales. Las velocidades medias obtenidas se han relacionado con factores litológicos, orográficos y de inundabilidad, identificando deformaciones compatibles con determinados riesgos geológicos, como subsidencia urbana y deslizamientos.
Two-step skeletization of binary images based on the Zhang-Suen model and the producing mask
Authors: Ma J., , Tsviatkou V. Yu. , Kanapelka V. K.
Published: April 2021

The aim of the work is to limit excessive thinning and increase the resistance to contour noise of skeletons resulted from arbitrary binary image shape while maintaining a high skeletonization rate. The skeleton is a set of thin lines, the relative position, the size and shape, which conveys information of size, shape and orientation in space of the corresponding homogeneous region of the image. To ensure resistance to contour noise, skeletonization algorithms are built on the basis of several steps. Zhang-Suen algorithm is widely known by high-quality skeletons and average performance, which disadvantages are the blurring of diagonal lines with a thickness of 2 pixels and the totally disappear patterns of 2x2 pixels. To overcome them, a mathematical model that compensates the Zhang-Suen algorithm has proposed in this paper, along with a producing mask and two logical conditions for evaluating its elements.
Essential extensions of filters in residuated lattices
Authors: Haveshki Masoud
Published: April 2021

We deﬁne the essential extension of a ﬁlter in the residuated lattice A associated to an ideal of L(A) and investigate its related properties. We prove the residuated lattice A is a Boolean algebra, G(RL)-algebra or MV -algebra if and only if the essential extension of {1} associated to A \ P is a Boolean ﬁlter, G-ﬁlter or MV -ﬁlter (for all P ∈ SpecA), respectively. Also, some properties of lattice of essential extensions are studied.
Comparison of a Metronome-guided Prehospital Medication Infusion Technique with Manual Calculation: A Simulated Randomized, Controlled, Cross-over Study
Authors: Galvagno Samuel , Cloepin James , Hannas Jeannie , Rubach Kurt , Naumann Andrew , Wendell Jonathan
Published: April 2021

BackgroundLimited research regarding administration of timed medication infusions in the prehospital environment has identified wide variability with accuracy, timing, and overall feasibility. This study was a pragmatic, randomized, controlled, crossover study comparing two different techniques for medication infusion administration. We hypothesized that the use of a metronome-based technique would decrease medication dosage errors and reduce time to administration for intravenous medication infusions. Methods Forty-two nationally registered paramedics were randomized to either a metronome-based technique versus a standard stopwatch-based technique. Each subject served as a control. Subjects were asked to establish an infusion of amiodarone at a dose of 150 mg administered over 10 minutes, simulating treatment of a hemodynamically stable patient with sustained monomorphic ventricular tachycardia. Descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression were used for data analysis. Results When compared to a standard stopwatch-based technique, a metronome-based technique was associated with faster time to goal, fewer mid-infusion adjustments, and greater ease of use. Conclusions Use of a metronome technique for establishing medication infusion rates may help prehospital clinicians provide safer and more precise medication delivery.
Using qualitative methods to establish the clinically meaningful threshold for treatment success for the Severity of Alopecia Tool (SALT) score
Authors: Wyrwich Kathleen W. , Kitchen Helen , Knight Sarah , Aldhouse Natalie V.J. , Macey Jake , Mesinkovska Natasha , Ko Justin M. , King Brett A.
Published: April 2021

Purpose: Traditionally, appropriate anchors are used to investigate the amount of change on a clinician-reported outcome assessment that is meaningful to individual patients. However, novel qualitative methods can additionally inform the individual improvement threshold for demonstrating the clinical benefit of new treatments. This study aimed to establish a clinically meaningful threshold for treatment success for the clinician-reported Severity of Alopecia Tool (SALT) score for patients with alopecia areata (AA).Methods: A purposive sample of 10 dermatologists expert in the treatment of AA, and 30 adult and adolescent patients with AA and a history of ≥50% scalp hair loss were recruited. Semi-structured interview questions explored thresholds that represented treatment success to clinicians and patients with AA. Findings were analyzed using thematic methods to identify treatment success thresholds.Results: Expert clinicians considered a static threshold of 80% (n=5) or 75% (n=3) of the scalp hair as a treatment success. Patient responses ranged from 70 - 90% (median 80% of the scalp hair). Subsequently, queried patients confirmed that achieving SALT score ≤20 with treatment would be a success. Reflections on the methodology include: clinician perceptions can be informed by current clinical practice and knowledge of existing treatments and research and clinicians easily identified thresholds through qualitative discussions; patients were able to understand and identify thresholds for improvement less than complete absence of disease. Conclusions: This qualitative investigation of expert clinicians and patients with AA confirmed that achieving an amount of 80% or more scalp hair (SALT score ≤20) was an appropriate individual treatment success threshold indicating clinically meaningful improvement for patients with ≥50% scalp hair loss. A qualitative investigation of a quantifiable treatment success is possible through well-designed interview questions for the indication and patient population. Both clinician and patient input plays a critical role in understanding the clinical benefit meaningful to patients.
Expression Level of Annexin A1 Contributes to the Evaluation of the Disease Progression and Treatment Effect of Lung Adenocarcinoma: A New Perspective from Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Rong Biaoxue , Yan Hongling , Wu Ge , Li Kai , Li Min , Rong Congxue , Liu Wen
Published: April 2021

Background: Increased Annexin A1 has been showed to be related to malignant biological characteristics of tumors; the aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between the expression level of Annexin A1 and the disease progression and treatment effect of lung adenocarcinoma (LAC). Methods: The expression level of Annexin A1 in LAC tissues and cells was detected by the methods of immunohistochemistry, Real time-PCR and western blotting. The relationship between the expression of Annexin A1 and the disease progression and treatment effect of LAC was evaluated by descriptive statistics, T test and Chi-square test. Results: The protein expression of Annexin A1 was higher in lung cancer tissues and cells than that in normal tissues and 16 human bronchial epithelial (16HBE) cells (p<0.05). The level of Annexin A1 mRNA was higher in lung cancer tissues than that in normal tissues (p<0.05). The increase of Annexin A1 protein and mRNA was associated with the lymph node metastasis, advanced clinical stage (p<0.05). However, surgical resection and chemotherapy for LAC down-regulated the serum concentration of Annexin A1 in patients (p<0.05).Conclusions: Increased Annexin A1 protein and mRNA in LAC tissues correlate with the poor differentiation, lymph node metastasis and advanced stage of LAC. Surgical resection and chemotherapy for LAC down-regulate the serum concentration of Annexin A1 in patients. The results indicate that expression level of Annexin A1 contributes to the evaluation of the disease progression and treatment effect of LAC.
Effects of Complement 3 deficiency on its receptor downstream signaling pathway-mediated inflammatory response in knockout mice
Authors: Choi Yun Ju , Kim Ji Eun , Lee Su Jin , Gong Jeong Eun , Lee Ho , Hwang Dae Youn
Published: April 2021

The current study measured alterations in the inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS)‑mediated cyclooxygenase‑2 (COX‑2) induction pathway, inflammasome pathway, NF-kB activation, and inflammatory cytokine expressions in the transverse colon of C3 knockout (KO) mice, to determine whether complement component 3 (C3) deficiency affects its receptor downstream-mediated inflammatory response. Compared to wild type (WT) mice, the expression level of C3 protein was successfully suppressed in the transverse colon of C3 KO mice. Significant enhancement was observed in expression levels of important members of the iNOS‑mediated COX‑2 induction pathway, and in the phosphorylation of mitogen‑activated protein (MAP) kinase members. Also, a similar pattern of increase was observed in the expression levels of inflammasome proteins in C3 KO mice. Moreover, compared to WT mice, C3 KO mice showed remarkably enhanced phosphorylation of NF-kB and IkB-a, which was reflected in entirety as increased expressions of TNF-a, IL-6 and IL-1a. Taken together, results of the current study indicate that C3 deficiency induces activation of the iNOS‑mediated COX‑2 induction pathway, ASC-inflammasome pathway, and NF-kB signaling pathway, resulting in the enhancement of inflammatory cytokine expressions in the transverse colon of C3 KO mice.
Predesigned rigid dysprosium(III) single-molecule magnets exhibit preserved superparamagnetism in solution
Authors: Ding Xia-Li , Luo Qian-Cheng , Zhai Yuan-Qi , Zhang Xu-Feng , Lyu Yi , Zhang Xin-Liang , Ke Chao , Zheng Yan-Zhen
Published: April 2021

Molecules with long preserved magnetic moments are perceived as the smallest units for storing bytes, which could bring a new revolution for information technology. However, the rational design of such molecules remains challenging. Here we show it is possible to predesign such molecules by studying the vibration spectra. Two adamantanol based dysprosium(III) complexes with pentagonal-bipyramidal local geometry were theoretically predicted to display enhanced single-molecule magnet (SMM) behavior due to the reduced vibration modes in low energy regimes. The experimental isolation of these two complexes not only confirms this prediction, but further reveals almost unchanged large energy barriers and high blocking temperatures in solution state. This is never observed in previous studies of SMMs, indicating that the adamantanol ligand is rigid enough to make the complexes exhibiting intrinsic magnetic property in solution. As vibration spectrometer is routinely accessible in common laboratories this work provides a facile strategy to construct high-performance SMMs.
The Mechanism of Fos and Leptin Receptor in Neural Tube Development of Offspring Under The Regulation of Energy Balance
Authors: Li Ting , Huo Quan , Lu Zhi Guo , Xing Xin Ran , Ding Lu , Sun Dong Jun , Li Mei Gang , Du Yong
Published: April 2021

Background The occurrence of neural tube defects is a complex process in which genes, internal and external environment and other factors jointly influence and occur interactively. In this experiment, animal models of different energy balance states are constructed. To explore the mechanism of fos and leptin-leptin receptor during neural tube development of offspring under different energy states and its effect on neural tube development of offspringMethods Using gene identification technology to obtain Mex3c+/- negative energy balance mice and high-fat diet to obtain positive energy balance mice, and obtain E10.5d, E12.5d, E14.5d embryos. We will verify the expression of fos, leptin, LEPR, nestin, PAX3, and H3K27me3 proteins in the neural tube of the offspring through relevant experimental methods.Results We have successfully constructed animal models, Control group (18.82g±1.54g), Mex3c group (18.84g±1.08g), HFD group (22.61g±1.10g). Neural tube HE staining showen that compared with the Control group, the neuronal maturity of the Mex3c group and the HFD group was reduced. Immunohistochemical staining showed that both fos and leptin were expressed on the nucleus, and LEPR was expressed on the cell membrane. Western blot experiments showed that compared with the Control group, the Mex3c group and the HFD group had low expression of fos protein (P＜0.01), the Mex3c group had high expression of LEPR protein (P＜0.01) and the HFD group had high expression of LEPR protein (P＜0.01). Immunostaining experiments showed that nestin was expressed in nerve fibers, and PAX3 and H3K27me3 were both expressed in the nucleus. Western blooting experiment showed that compared with the Control group, the Mex3c group had high expression of nestin protein (P＜0.01), PAX3 protein (P＜0.01), H3K27me3 (P＜0.01), and the HFD group had high expression of nestin protein (P＜0.01). ) And PAX3 protein (P<0.01), H3K27me3 (P<0.01).ConclusionsMex3c regulates leptin and LEPR by enhancing the expression of fos mRNA to participate in the neural tube development process of offspring. The neural tube nestin, PAX3, and H3K27me3 of the offspring of Mex3c+/- mice and high-fat diet mice continue to be highly expressed. Mex3c+/- mice express low leptin, and high-fat diet mice highly express leptin; preliminary reveals the regulation of different energy states Leptin-LEPR is involved in the process of neurodevelopment. Mex3c mutant mice and mice on a high-fat diet lead to decreased neurodevelopmental maturity.
Two novel mutations in Gli-similar 3 in patients with congenital hypothyroidism and thyroid dysgenesis
Authors: Lan Jie , Sun Chunhui , Liang Xinping , Ma Ruixin , Ji Yuhua , Li Miaomiao , Liu Shiguo , Wang Fang
Published: April 2021

Background: Thyroid dysgenesis (TD) is the main cause of congenital hypothyroidism (CH). As variants of the transcription factor Gli-similar 3 (GLIS3) have been associated with CH and GLIS3 is one of candidate genes of TD, we screened and characterized GLIS3 mutations in Chinese patients with CH and TD.Methods: To detect mutations, we sequenced all GLIS3 exons in the peripheral blood genomic DNA isolated from 50 patients with TD and 100 healthy individuals. Wild-type and mutant expression vectors of Glis3 were constructed. Quantitative real-time PCR, western blotting, and double luciferase assay were performed to investigation the effect of the mutations on GLIS3 protein function and transcriptional activation.Results: Two novel heterozygous missense mutations, c.2710G>A (p.G904R) and c.2507C>A (p.P836Q), were detected in two unrelated patients. Functional studies revealed that p.G904R expression was 59.95% lower and p.P836Q was 31.23% lower than wild-type GLIS3 mRNA expression. The p.G904R mutation also resulted in lower GLIS3 protein expression compared with that encoded by wild-type GLIS3. Additionally, the luciferase reporter assay revealed that p.G904R mediated impaired transcriptional activation compared with the wild-type protein (p < 0.05) but did not have a dominant-negative effect on the wild-type protein.Conclusions: We for the first time screened and characterized the function of GLIS3 mutations in Chinese individuals with CH and TD. Our study not only broadens the GLIS3 mutation spectrum, but also provides further evidence that GLIS3 defects cause TD.
Hypoalbuminemia as a Predictor of Adverse Outcome in Critically Ill Children: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: El-shamy Abeer Yehia , Khattab Ahmed Anwar , Adbel-Aziz Alyaa Ahdy
Published: April 2021

Background

hypoalbuminemia is a common finding in critically ill patients associated with a high risk of mortality, but there is lack of data on its role in pediatric patients. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of low albumin levels in pediatric patients on poor prognosis and high risk of mortality in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU).
Methods

This was a prospective cohort study conducted at the PICU at El-Bagour hospital from November 2018 to November 2020. The aim was to evaluate low albumin level as a predictor of poor prognosis and clinical outcome in 150 critically ill children aged one month up to 18 years. ROC curve was used to assess the discriminatory ability of scoring systems for patients’ mortality.
Results

148 patients were included in the final analysis where the incidence of hypoalbuminemia in the 1st 48-h postadmission was 44.6% with an overall mean serum albumin level of 3.34 ± 0.78. Hypoalbuminemia was an independent factor of mortality prediction. Moreover, we found children with hypoalbuminemia had higher mortality rate (p-value < 0.001), higher PICU stays (p-value = 0.016), lower galscow coma score (GSC) (p-value = 0.0017), and more need of mechanical ventilation (p-value < 0.001).
Conclusion

hypoalbuminemia may be used as a significant predictor of mortality and risk assessment in critically ill children.
Effect of the Landscape on Functional and Spatial Connectivity in Magnolia Cubensis (Magnoliaceae) in Two Mountain Massifs of Cuba
Authors: Rodríguez Majela Hernández , Lozano Ernesto Testé , Veltjen Emily , Delgado Jhonny Quintana , Bejerano Alejandro Palmarola , Cruz Marlyn Valdés de la , Asselman Pieter , Larridon Isabel , Samain Marie-Stéphanie , Torres Luis Roberto González
Published: April 2021

Landscape features impact gene flow and the spatial patterns of genetic variation between populations of a species. Because many Magnoliaceae species occur in fragmented and highly disturbed landscapes, the family is an excellent model for landscape genetic studies. This research focuses on the subspecies and localities of Magnolia cubensis and aims to: (1) compare the genetic diversity, (2) search for genetic patterns, (3) describe the functional connectivity and (4) access the structural connectivity of the landscape. This study employs 21 microsatellite markers on two subspecies, complemented with landscape characteristics of the Guamuhaya and Sierra Maestra massifs in Cuba. Magnolia cubensis subsp. acunae does not have a well-defined spatial genetic pattern: there is no evidence of isolation by distance or spatial autocorrelation and the little genetic differentiation between the two localities does not reflect the characteristics of the landscape that separates them or the cost values to cross it. Magnolia cubensis subsp. cubensis presents evidence of isolation by distance and the autocorrelation analyses indicate that the approximate scale of the genetic neighborhood is between 35 and 40 km. There is a marked genetic structure with probability values that indicate the existence of three genetic groups. Large genetic differentiation was only found between Gran Piedra and the other localities, which reflects low gene flow. Our results support the recognition of these subspecies at the species level. We define one evolutionary significant unit in Magnolia cubensis subsp. acunae and two evolutionary significant units in Magnolia cubensis subsp. cubensis. These results must be combined with ecological, social and distribution data, in order to obtain a more accurate and realistic perspective of the conservation management strategies for these taxa.