bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictors of Opioid Prescribing for Non-Malignant Low Back Pain in an Italian Primary Care Setting
Authors: Cammarota Simona , Conti Valeria , Corbi Graziamaria , Di Gregorio Luigi , Dolce Pasquale , Fogliasecca Marianna , Iannaccone Teresa , Manzo Valentina , Passaro Vincenzo , Toraldo Bernardo , Valente Alfredo , Citarella Anna
Published: August 2021

This study explores which patient characteristics could affect the likelihood of starting low back pain (LBP) treatment with opioid analgesics vs. Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) in an Italian primary care setting. Through the computerized medical records of 65 General Practitioners, non-malignant LBP subjects who received the first pain intensity measurement and an NSAID or opioid prescription, during 2015–2016, were identified. Patients with an opioid prescription 1-year before the first pain intensity measurement were excluded. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to determine predictive factors of opioid prescribing. Results were reported as Odds Ratios (ORs) with a 95% confidence interval (CI), with p < 0.05 indicating statistical significance. A total of 505 individuals with LBP were included: of those, 72.7% received an NSAID prescription and 27.3% an opioid one (64% of subjects started with strong opioid). Compared to patients receiving an NSAID, those with opioid prescriptions were younger, reported the highest pain intensity (moderate pain OR = 2.42; 95% CI 1.48–3.96 and severe pain OR = 2.01; 95% CI 1.04–3.88) and were more likely to have asthma (OR 3.95; 95% CI 1.99–7.84). Despite clinical guidelines, a large proportion of LBP patients started with strong opioid therapy. Asthma, younger age and pain intensity were predictors of opioid prescribing when compared to NSAIDs for LBP treatment.
Additive Manufacturing and Maritime Spare Parts: Benefits and Obstacles for the End-Users
Authors: Kostidi Evanthia , Nikitakos Nikitas , Progoulakis Iosif
Published: August 2021

3D printing or additive manufacturing (AM) (in the industrial context) is an innovative, as opposed to subtractive, technology, bringing new opportunities and benefits to the spare part supply chain (SPSC). The aim of this work is to capture the views of the stakeholders at the end of the chain, extruding factors that will benefit the end-user and the factors that are likely to be an obstacle, by employing the questionnaire method. Company objectives regarding spares (cost reductions, improvement of services, space reduction) have been prioritized differently by the stakeholders. The most important barriers according to the participants are the quality assurance of the spare parts made by the new technology followed by the know-how and skills of staff. Other views such as suitable parts are suggested. The practical value of this work, in addition to assessing the readiness of the industry, is that it provides guidance for the successful implementation of AM in the maritime industry.
Verification and Validation of a Methodology to Numerically Generate Waves Using Transient Discrete Data as Prescribed Velocity Boundary Condition
Authors: Maciel Rafael P. , Fragassa Cristiano , Machado Bianca N. , Rocha Luiz A. O. , dos Santos Elizaldo D. , Gomes Mateus N. , Isoldi Liércio A.
Published: August 2021

This work presents a two-dimensional numerical analysis of a wave channel and a oscillating water column (OWC) device. The main goal is to validate a methodology which uses transient velocity data as a means to impose velocity boundary condition for the generation of numerical waves. To achieve this, a numerical wave channel was simulated using regular waves with the same parameters as those used in a laboratory experiment. First, these waves were imposed as prescribed velocity boundary condition and compared with the analytical solution; then, the OWC device was inserted into the computational domain, aiming to validate this methodology. For the numerical analysis, computational fluid dynamics ANSYS Fluent software was employed, and to tackle with water–air interaction, the nonlinear multiphase model volume of fluid (VOF) was applied. Although the results obtained through the use of discrete data as velocity boundary condition presented a little disparity; in general, they showed a good agreement with laboratory experiment results. Since many studies use regular waves, there is a lack of analysis with ocean waves realistic data; thus, the proposed methodology stands out for its capacity of using realistic sea state data in numerical simulations regarding wave energy converters (WECs).
Reduced MIP-1β as a Trait Marker and Reduced IL-7 and IL-12 as State Markers of Anorexia Nervosa
Authors: Keeler Johanna Louise , Patsalos Olivia , Chung Raymond , Schmidt Ulrike , Breen Gerome , Treasure Janet , Himmerich Hubertus , Dalton Bethan
Published: August 2021

Alterations in certain inflammatory markers have been found in individuals with anorexia nervosa (AN). However, their relation to clinical characteristics has not been extensively explored, nor is it clear whether they are trait or state features of the disorder. This cross-sectional study measured serum concentrations of 36 inflammatory markers in people with acute AN (n = 56), recovered AN (rec-AN; n = 24) and healthy controls (HC; n = 51). The relationship between body mass index (BMI), eating disorder psychopathology, depression symptoms and inflammatory markers was assessed. Statistical models controlled for variables known to influence cytokine concentrations (i.e., age, ethnicity, smoking status and medication usage). Overall, most inflammatory markers including pro-inflammatory cytokines were unchanged in AN and rec-AN. However, in AN and rec-AN, concentrations of macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)-1β were lower than HCs. Interleukin (IL)-7 and IL-12/IL-23p40 were reduced in AN, and concentrations of macrophage-derived chemokine, MIP-1α and tumor necrosis factor-α were reduced in rec-AN compared to HC. In conclusion, a reduction in MIP-1β may be a trait marker of the illness, whereas reductions in IL-7 and IL-12/IL-23p40 may be state markers. The absence of increased pro-inflammatory cytokines in AN is contradictory to the wider literature, although the inclusion of covariates may explain our differing findings.
Assessing the Spatial Distribution Pattern of Street Greenery and Its Relationship with Socioeconomic Status and the Built Environment in Shanghai, China
Authors: Xiao Chao , Shi Qian , Gu Chen-Jie
Published: August 2021

Urban greenery is widely acknowledged as a key element for creating livable urban environments and improving residents’ quality of life. However, only a few current studies on the subject of urban greenery focus on a human visual perspective and take street greenery into consideration. Street greenery is an indispensable component of urban vegetation to which residents have a higher frequency of access. Additionally, few studies focused on the disparity of the green view at a micro-level, such as at a county or community level. This study explored the spatial distribution of street greenery and its influential factors using the green view index (GVI) as the main evaluation indicator. Compared to other traditional indicators of greenery, such as the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) and accessibility, GVI is recognized as a human-oriented indicator to evaluate the quantity of greenery viewed by human eyes in daily life. The downtown area of Shanghai was chosen as the case study, as it reflects the common phenomenon of street greenery in many megacities globally. In addition, county/jiedao (the same administrative area as county in China) level was selected as the minimum geographical unit to evaluate the disparity of GVI and its influential factors to fill the knowledge gap. We analyzed 233,000 pieces of street-view images from Baidu Map and other correlated data. The results showed (1) the street greenery of 70% of the downtown area of Shanghai is less than the recommended comforFogre visual environment; (2) street greenery is spatially clustered in Huangpu district, Xuhui district, college town, and the Century Park of Shanghai; (3) street-greenery distribution is positively correlated with housing price and street network density, and negatively correlated with the ratio of society vulnerability; however, it is uncorrelated to population density. According to these findings, local municipalities could improve urban planning and design by introducing a more human-oriented green-space policy that improves social equity.
Does Transport Infrastructure Inequality Matter for Economic Growth? Evidence from China
Authors: Chen Anyu , Li Yueran , Ye Kunhui , Nie Tianyi , Liu Rui
Published: August 2021

Transport infrastructure (TI) plays a crucial role in socioeconomic development. The increase of TI inequality, an all-pervading phenomenon in both developed and developing countries, has been an obstacle to sustainable economic growth. The relationship between TI inequality and economic growth has attracted considerable interest over the past three decades. However, the relationship remains obscure, and people find it impossible to utilize to develop economies. This study collected a panel of empirical data from 1982 to 2015 from China to calculate the Gini coefficient and conduct the Granger causality test. The data analysis results show that TI inequality is not always conducive to economic growth. A softening TI inequality helps address the issues of uneven economic growth across regions in the long term. The short-term effects of improving TI inequality at the national level are reflected in the network effect. In addition, the “social filters” facilitate the region to absorb the economic benefits brought by the improvement of TI inequality. These findings offer a way to address the increase of TI inequality and shed light on the ways to improve transport investment from the perspective of economic growth.
Characterization of a Disordered above Room Temperature Skyrmion Material Co8Zn8Mn4
Authors: Henderson Melissa E. , Beare James , Sharma Sudarshan , Bleuel Markus , Clancy Pat , Cory David G. , Huber Michael G. , Marjerrison Casey A. , Pula Mathew , Sarenac Dusan , Smith Evan M. , Zhernenkov Kirill , Luke Graeme M. , Pushin Dmitry A.
Published: August 2021

Topologically nontrivial spin textures host great promise for future spintronic applications. Skyrmions in particular are of burgeoning interest owing to their nanometric size, topological protection, and high mobility via ultra-low current densities. It has been previously reported through magnetic susceptibility, microscopy, and scattering techniques that Co8Zn8Mn4 forms an above room temperature triangular skyrmion lattice. Here, we report the synthesis procedure and characterization of a polycrystalline Co8Zn8Mn4 disordered bulk sample. We employ powder X-ray diffraction and backscatter Laue diffraction as characterization tools of the crystallinity of the samples, while magnetic susceptibility and Small Angle Neutron Scattering (SANS) measurements are performed to study the skyrmion phase. Magnetic susceptibility measurements show a dip anomaly in the magnetization curves, which persists over a range of approximately 305 K–315 K. SANS measurements reveal a rotationally disordered polydomain skyrmion lattice. Applying a symmetry-breaking magnetic field sequence, we were able to orient and order the previously jammed state to yield the prototypical hexagonal diffraction patterns with secondary diffraction rings. This emergence of the skyrmion order serves as a unique demonstration of the fundamental interplay of structural disorder and anisotropy in stabilizing the thermal equilibrium phase.
Performance and Cost-Effectiveness of Short Pitch-Based Carbon Fiber Reinforced Mortar Composite
Authors: Safiuddin Md. , Abdel-Sayed George , Hearn Nataliya
Published: August 2021

This paper discusses the performance of the short pitch-based carbon fiber reinforced mortar (CFRM) composite considering its key properties and cost-effectiveness. Five different types of mortar composite were produced using 0–4% volume contents of short pitch-based carbon fibers. The mortar composites were tested for inverted slump cone flow (flow time and volume flow), unit weight, air content, compressive strength, flexural strength, impact resistance, and water absorption. The cost-effectiveness of CFRM was assessed based on the performance to cost ratio (PCR), which was calculated for each mortar composite, considering its workability, mechanical properties, and durability. The inverted slump cone volume flow was counted as a measure of workability, whereas the compressive strength, flexural strength, and impact resistance were considered as the major attributes of the mechanical behavior. In addition, the water absorption was used as a measure of durability. The test results revealed that the mortar composite made with 3% carbon fibers provided adequate workability, a relatively high unit weight and low air content, the highest compressive strength, excellent flexural strength, good impact resistance, and the lowest water absorption. It was also found that the PCR increased up to 3% carbon fibers. Beyond a 3% fiber content, the PCR significantly decreased. The overall research findings revealed that the mortar with 3% carbon fibers was the optimum and most cost-effective mortar composite.
Wool Keratin Hydrolysates for Bioactive Additives Preparation
Authors: Gaidau Carmen , Stanca Maria , Niculescu Mihaela-Doina , Alexe Cosmin-Andrei , Becheritu Marius , Horoias Roxana , Cioineag Cristian , Râpă Maria , Stanculescu Ioana Rodica
Published: August 2021

The aim of this paper was to select keratin hydrolysate with bioactive properties by using the enzymatic hydrolysis of wool. Different proteolytic enzymes such as Protamex, Esperase, and Valkerase were used to break keratin molecules in light of bioactive additive preparation. The enzymatic keratin hydrolysates were assessed in terms of the physico-chemical characteristics related to the content of dry substance, total nitrogen, keratin, ash, cysteic sulphur, and cysteine. The influence of enzymatic hydrolysis on molecular weight and amino acid composition was determined by gel permeation chromatography (GPC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analyses. Antimicrobial activity of keratin hydrolysates was analysed against Fusarium spp., a pathogenic fungus that can decrease the quality of plants. The bioactivity of enzymatic hydrolysates was tested on maize plants and allowed us to select the keratin hydrolysates processed with the Esperase and Valkerase enzymes. The ratio of organised structures of hydrolysate peptides was analysed by attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) deconvolution of the amide I band and may explain the difference in their bioactive behaviour. The most important modifications in the ATR spectra of maize leaves in correlation with the experimentally proven performance on maize development by plant length and chlorophyll index quantification were detailed. The potential of enzymatic hydrolysis to design additives with different bioactivity was shown in the case of plant growth stimulation.
Enhancement of Bentonite Materials with Cement for Gamma-Ray Shielding Capability
Authors: El-Khatib Ahmed M. , Elsafi Mohamed , Almutiri Mohamed N. , Mahmoud R. M. M. , Alzahrani Jamila S. , Sayyed M. I. , Abbas Mahmoud I.
Published: August 2021

The gamma-ray shielding ability of various Bentonite–Cement mixed materials from northeast Egypt have been examined by determining their theoretical and experimental mass attenuation coefficients, μm (cm2g−1), at photon energies of 59.6, 121.78, 344.28, 661.66, 964.13, 1173.23, 1332.5 and 1408.01 keV emitted from 241Am, 137Cs, 152Eu and 60Co point sources. The μm was theoretically calculated using the chemical compositions obtained by Energy Dispersive X-ray Analysis (EDX), while a NaI (Tl) scintillation detector was used to experimentally determine the μm (cm2g−1) of the mixed samples. The theoretical values are in acceptable agreement with the experimental calculations of the XCom software. The linear attenuation coefficient (μ), mean free path (MFP), half-value layer (HVL) and the exposure buildup factor (EBF) were also calculated by knowing the μm values of the examined samples. The gamma-radiation shielding ability of the selected Bentonite–Cement mixed samples have been studied against other puplished shielding materials. Knowledge of various factors such as thermo-chemical stability, availability and water holding capacity of the bentonite–cement mixed samples can be analyzed to determine the effectiveness of the materials to shield gamma rays.
Efficiency Boost in Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells by Post- Annealing UV-Ozone Treatment of TiO2 Mesoporous Layer
Authors: Augustowski Dariusz , Gala Maciej , Kwaśnicki Paweł , Rysz Jakub
Published: August 2021

The organic residues on titanium(IV) oxide may be a significant factor that decreases the efficiency of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSC). Here, we suggest the UV-ozone cleaning process to remove impurities from the surface of TiO2 nanoparticles before dye-sensitizing. Data obtained from scanning electron microscopy, Kelvin probe, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy showed that the amounts of organic contamination were successfully reduced. Additionally, the UV-VIS spectrophotometry, spectrofluorometry, and secondary ion mass spectrometry proved that after ozonization, the dyeing process was relevantly enhanced. Due to the removal of organics, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the prepared DSSC devices was boosted from 4.59% to 5.89%, which was mostly caused by the increment of short circuit current (Jsc) and slight improvement of the open circuit voltage (Voc).
Relationship between Pressure and Output Parameters in Belt Grinding of Steels and Nickel Alloy
Authors: Syreyshchikova Nelli Vladimirovna , Pimenov Danil Yurievich , Gupta Munish Kumar , Nadolny Krzysztof , Giasin Khaled , Aamir Muhammad , Sharma Shubham
Published: August 2021

Belt grinding of flat surfaces of typical parts made of steel and alloys, such as grooves, shoulders, ends, and long workpieces, is a good alternative to milling. Several factors can influence the belt grinding process of flat surfaces of metals, such as cutting speed and pressure. In this work, the importance of pressure in the belt grinding was investigated in terms of technological and experimental aspects. The grinding experiments were performed on structural alloy steel 30KhGSN2/30KhGSNA, structural carbon steel AISI 1045, corrosion-resistant and heat-resistant stainless steel AISI 321, and heat-resistant nickel alloy KHN77TYuR. The performance of the grinding belt was investigated in terms of surface roughness, material removal rate (MRR), grinding belt wear, performance index. Estimated indicators of the belt grinding process were developed: cutting ability; reduced cutting ability for belt grinding of steels and heat-resistant alloy. It was found that with an increase in pressure p, the surface roughness of the processed surface Ra decreased while the tool wear VB and MRR increased. With a decrease in plasticity and difficulty of machinability, the roughness, material removal rate, reduced cutting capacity (Performance index) qper, material removal Q decreased, and the tool wear VB increased. The obtained research results can be used by technologists when creating belt grinding operations for steels and alloys to ensure the required performance is met.
Theoretical and Numerical Aspect of Fractional Differential Equations with Purely Integral Conditions
Authors: Brahimi Saadoune , Merad Ahcene , Kılıçman Adem
Published: August 2021

In this paper, we are interested in the study of a Caputo time fractional advection–diffusion equation with nonhomogeneous boundary conditions of integral types ∫01vx,tdx and ∫01xnvx,tdx. The existence and uniqueness of the given problem’s solution is proved using the method of the energy inequalities known as the “a priori estimate” method relying on the range density of the operator generated by the considered problem. The approximate solution for this problem with these new kinds of boundary conditions is established by using a combination of the finite difference method and the numerical integration. Finally, we give some numerical tests to illustrate the usefulness of the obtained results.
Kadomtsev–Petviashvili Hierarchy: Negative Times
Authors: Pogrebkov Andrei K.
Published: August 2021

The Kadomtsev–Petviashvili equation is known to be the leading term of a semi-infinite hierarchy of integrable equations with evolutions given by times with positive numbers. Here, we introduce new hierarchy directed to negative numbers of times. The derivation of such systems, as well as the corresponding hierarchy, is based on the commutator identities. This approach enables introduction of linear differential equations that admit lifts up to nonlinear integrable ones by means of the special dressing procedure. Thus, one can construct not only nonlinear equations, but corresponding Lax pairs as well. The Lax operator of this evolution coincides with the Lax operator of the “positive” hierarchy. We also derive (1 + 1)-dimensional reductions of equations of this hierarchy.
Some New Simpson’s and Newton’s Formulas Type Inequalities for Convex Functions in Quantum Calculus
Authors: Siricharuanun Pimchana , Erden Samet , Ali Muhammad Aamir , Budak Hüseyin , Chasreechai Saowaluck , Sitthiwirattham Thanin
Published: August 2021

In this paper, using the notions of qκ2-quantum integral and qκ2-quantum derivative, we present some new identities that enable us to obtain new quantum Simpson’s and quantum Newton’s type inequalities for quantum differentiable convex functions. This paper, in particular, generalizes and expands previous findings in the field of quantum and classical integral inequalities obtained by various authors.
The Hamilton–Jacobi Theory for Contact Hamiltonian Systems
Authors: de León Manuel , Lainz Manuel , Muñiz-Brea Álvaro
Published: August 2021

The aim of this paper is to develop a Hamilton–Jacobi theory for contact Hamiltonian systems. We find several forms for a suitable Hamilton–Jacobi equation accordingly to the Hamiltonian and the evolution vector fields for a given Hamiltonian function. We also analyze the corresponding formulation on the symplectification of the contact Hamiltonian system, and establish the relations between these two approaches. In the last section, some examples are discussed.
Dermatitis Herpetiformis: An Update on Diagnosis, Disease Monitoring, and Management
Authors: Nguyen Christopher N. , Kim Soo-Jung
Published: August 2021

Dermatitis herpetiformis (DH), Duhring disease, is caused by gluten sensitivity and affects 11.2 to 75.3 per 100,000 people in the United States and Europe with an incidence of 0.4 to 3.5 per 100,000 people per year. DH is characterized by a symmetrical blistering rash on the extensor surfaces with severe pruritus. The diagnosis continues to be made primarily by pathognomonic findings on histopathology, especially direct immunofluorescence (DIF). Recently, anti-epidermal transglutaminase (TG3) antibodies have shown to be a primary diagnostic serology, while anti-tissue transglutaminase (TG2) and other autoantibodies may be used to support the diagnosis and for disease monitoring. Newly diagnosed patients with DH should be screened and assessed for associated diseases and complications. A gluten-free diet (GFD) and dapsone are still mainstays of treatment, but other medications may be necessary for recalcitrant cases. Well-controlled DH patients, managed by a dermatologist, a gastroenterologist, and a dietician, have an excellent prognosis. Our review comprehensively details the current diagnostic methods, as well as methods used to monitor its disease course. We also describe both the traditional and novel management options reported in the literature.
The Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Deletion/Deletion Genotype Is a Risk Factor for Severe COVID-19: Implication and Utility for Patients Admitted to Emergency Department
Authors: Annunziata Anna , Coppola Antonietta , Di Spirito Valentina , Cauteruccio Rosa , Marotta Antonella , Micco Pierpaolo Di , Fiorentino Giuseppe
Published: August 2021

Background and objective: Insertion/deletion polymorphisms of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) have been previously described in association with adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and correlated to outcome. The ACE deletion/deletion(D/D)genotype represents a marker of thrombosis in subjects apparently without predisposing factors and/or traditional thrombophilic alterations and increases the risk of venous thromboembolism in subjects in whom a thrombogenic condition occurs. Thrombosis seems to play a role very early in the disease caused by SARS-CoV-2, in particular in those with severe COVID-19 pneumonia. The counterbalance between angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and ACE2 activities in COVID-19 disease may play a crucial role in the thrombo-inflammatory process. We hypothesised that a genetic predisposition could condition the severity and complications of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Materials and methods: We conducted a spontaneous, single centre observational study in the Sub-Intensive Care Unit of A.O.R.N. Ospedali dei Colli, Cotugno Hospital, Naples (Italy). In this study, we performed genetic screening for ACE D/D genotype and other thrombophilic mutations in 20 patients affected by ARDS related to COVID-19 pneumonia, compared to 19 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Results: All tested patients had multiple polymorphisms and, in particular, a significantly higher prevalence of ACE D/D polymorphism in severe COVID-19 patients Conclusion: We found that the majority of patients who tested positive for ACE D-D genotype and who were not associated with other risk factors for VTE showed an evolution to ARDS. This finding could have a predicting role in the selection of patients more prone to developing severe COVID-19 during clinical observation in emergency department.
Xylella fastidiosa in Olive: A Review of Control Attempts and Current Management
Authors: Morelli Massimiliano , García-Madero José Manuel , Jos Ángeles , Saldarelli Pasquale , Dongiovanni Crescenza , Kovacova Magdalena , Saponari Maria , Baños Arjona Alberto , Hackl Evelyn , Webb Stephen , Compant Stéphane
Published: August 2021

Since 2013, Xylella fastidiosa Wells et al. has been reported to infect several hosts and to be present in different areas of Europe. The main damage has been inflicted on the olive orchards of southern Apulia (Italy), where a severe disease associated with X. fastidiosa subspecies pauca strain De Donno has led to the death of millions of trees. This dramatic and continuously evolving situation has led to European and national (Italian and Spanish) measures being implemented to reduce the spread of the pathogen and the associated olive quick decline syndrome (OQDS). Research has been also carried out to find solutions to better and directly fight the bacterium and its main insect vector, Philaenus spumarius L. In the course of this frantic effort, several treatments based on chemical or biological substances have been tested, in addition to plant breeding techniques and integrated pest management approaches. This review aims to summarize the attempts made so far and describe the prospects for better management of this serious threat, which poses alarming questions for the future of olive cultivation in the Mediterranean basin and beyond.
Latin American Origin Is Not Associated with Worse Outcomes among Hospitalized Patients with COVID-19 in a Public Healthcare System
Authors: Otero-Rodriguez Silvia , Moreno-Pérez Oscar , Ramos Jose Manuel , García Mar , Boix Vicente , Reus Sergio , Torrus Diego , Chico-Sánchez Pablo , Sánchez-Payá José , Aldana-Macias Fernando , Gil Joan , Portilla Joaquín , Merino Esperanza ,   on behalf of COVID19 ALC Research Group
Published: August 2021

Exploring differences in clinical outcomes based on race and origin among patients hospitalized for COVID-19 is a controversial issue. The ALC COVID-19 Registry includes all confirmed COVID-19 patients admitted to hospital from 3 March 2020 to 17 December 2020. The data were obtained from electronic health records in order to evaluate the differences in the clinical features and outcomes among European and Latin American patients. The follow-ups occurred after 156 days. A propensity score weighting (PSW) logistic regression model was used to estimate the odds ratio (OR, 95% CI) for Latin American origin and outcome associations. Of the 696 patients included, 46.7% were women, with a median age of 65 (IQR 53–67) years, 614 (88.2%) were European, and 82 (11.8%) were Latin American. Latin American patients were younger, with fewer comorbidities, and a higher incidence of extensive pneumonia. After adjusting for residual confounders, Latin American origin was not associated with an increased risk of death (PSW OR 0.85 (0.23–3.14)) or with the need for invasive mechanical ventilation (PSW OR 0.35 (0.12–1.03)). Latin American origin was associated with a shorter hospital stay, but without differences in how long the patient remained on mechanical ventilation. In a public healthcare system, the rates of death or mechanical ventilation in severe COVID-19 cases were found to be comparable between patients of European and Latin American origins.
Hybridized Zoonotic Schistosoma Infections Result in Hybridized Morbidity Profiles: A Clinical Morbidity Study amongst Co-Infected Human Populations of Senegal
Authors: Fall Cheikh B. , Lambert Sébastien , Léger Elsa , Yasenev Lucy , Garba Amadou Djirmay , Diop Samba D. , Borlase Anna , Catalano Stefano , Faye Babacar , Walker Martin , Sene Mariama , Webster Joanne P.
Published: August 2021

Hybridization of infectious agents is a major emerging public and veterinary health concern at the interface of evolution, epidemiology, and control. Whilst evidence of the extent of hybridization amongst parasites is increasing, their impact on morbidity remains largely unknown. This may be predicted to be particularly pertinent where parasites of animals with contrasting pathogenicity viably hybridize with human parasites. Recent research has revealed that viable zoonotic hybrids between human urogenital Schistosoma haematobium with intestinal Schistosoma species of livestock, notably Schistosoma bovis, can be highly prevalent across Africa and beyond. Examining human populations in Senegal, we found increased hepatic but decreased urogenital morbidity, and reduced improvement following treatment with praziquantel, in those infected with zoonotic hybrids compared to non-hybrids. Our results have implications for effective monitoring and evaluation of control programmes, and demonstrate for the first time the potential impact of parasite hybridizations on host morbidity.
Effect of Fine Aggregate Particle Characteristics on Mechanical Properties of Fly Ash-Based Geopolymer Mortar
Authors: Li Heng , Gao Pengpeng , Xu Fang , Sun Tao , Zhou Yu , Zhu Jing , Peng Chao , Lin Juntao
Published: August 2021

This research aimed to investigate the effect of fine aggregate particles on mechanical properties of fly ash-based geopolymer mortar. In this work, seven kinds of river sand particles were designed based on different fine aggregate characteristics. The fineness modulus was adopted to quantitatively describe the gradation of sands. The fluidity, compressive, flexural, and tensile strengths of geopolymer mortar with different sand gradations were analyzed by laboratory tests. Furthermore, the composition and morphology of fly ash-based geopolymer mortar was analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The reasonable gradation range and filling effect of sand were obtained. The results show that fluidity and compressive and flexural strengths of geopolymer mortar both improve with the increase of the fineness modulus, while specific surface area and voidage are opposite. The tensile strength of mortar largely lies on the interface properties between the geopolymer binder and fine aggregates. When the pass rate of the key sieving size 1.18 mm is 75–95%, the pass rate of the key sieving size 0.15 mm is 15–25%, the fineness modulus is 2.2–2.6 and the appropriate filling coefficient of geopolymer paste is around 1.0–1.15, the comprehensive performance of geopolymer mortar is the best. This research paper could provide a basis for the design of geopolymer mortar based on fly ash, and it is of great significance for its popularization and application.
Interpreting the Chemical Variability of Iron Smelting Slag: A Case Study from Northeastern Madagascar
Authors: Morel Mélissa , Serneels Vincent
Published: August 2021

The archaeological remains of a metallurgical workshop were excavated at Amboronala (northeast of Madagascar/1000–1200 CE). The bulk mineralogical (X-ray Diffraction) and chemical (X-ray Fluorescence) data on ores, building materials, and slag are used to carry out a mass balance calculation. The results show an important variability from one smelt to the other, reflecting a poorly controlled process. During each smelt, a given amount of building material contributes to the formation of the slag, and the conditions of reduction allow the extraction of a given amount of metal. These two main factors influence the composition of the slag independently and variably. This finding allows to make some inference on the origin of the technique and the organization of the production can be made.
Black Garlic and Its Bioactive Compounds on Human Health Diseases: A Review
Authors: Ahmed Tanvir , Wang Chin-Kun
Published: August 2021

Black garlic (BG) is a form of aged garlic obtained from raw garlic (Allium sativum) via Millard reaction under high temperature (60–90 °C) and humidity (70–90%) for a period of time. Several studies reported higher contents of water-soluble antioxidants compounds (S-allyl cysteine, S-allyl-mercapto cysteine), 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, organosulfur compounds, polyphenol, volatile compounds, and products of other Millard reactions compared to fresh garlic after the thermal processing. Recent studies have demonstrated that BG and its bioactive compounds possess a wide range of biological activities and pharmacological properties that preserve and show better efficacy in preventing different types of diseases. Most of these benefits can be attributed to its anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation, anti-obesity, hepatoprotection, hypolipidemia, anti-cancer, anti-allergy, immunomodulation, nephroprotection, cardiovascular protection, and neuroprotection. Substantial studies have been conducted on BG and its components against different common human diseases in the last few decades. Still, a lot of research is ongoing to find out the therapeutic effects of BG. Thus, in this review, we summarized the pre-clinical and clinical studies of BG and its bioactive compounds on human health along with diverse bioactivity, a related mode of action, and also future challenges.
Latest Insights on Novel Deep Eutectic Solvents (DES) for Sustainable Extraction of Phenolic Compounds from Natural Sources
Authors: Serna-Vázquez Julio , Ahmad Mohd Zamidi , Boczkaj Grzegorz , Castro-Muñoz Roberto
Published: August 2021

Phenolic compounds have long been of great importance in the pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic industries. Unfortunately, conventional extraction procedures have a high cost and are time consuming, and the solvents used can represent a safety risk for operators, consumers, and the environment. Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) are green alternatives for extraction processes, given their low or non-toxicity, biodegradability, and reusability. This review discusses the latest research (in the last two years) employing DESs for phenolic extraction, solvent components, extraction yields, extraction method characteristics, and reviewing the phenolic sources (natural products, by-products, wastes, etc.). This work also analyzes and discusses the most relevant DES-based studies for phenolic extraction from natural sources, their extraction strategies using DESs, their molecular mechanisms, and potential applications.
Chemoinformatics Analyses of Tau Ligands Reveal Key Molecular Requirements for the Identification of Potential Drug Candidates against Tauopathies
Authors: Pinzi Luca , Tinivella Annachiara , Rastelli Giulio
Published: August 2021

Tau is a highly soluble protein mainly localized at a cytoplasmic level in the neuronal cells, which plays a crucial role in the regulation of microtubule dynamic stability. Recent studies have demonstrated that several factors, such as hyperphosphorylation or alterations of Tau metabolism, may contribute to the pathological accumulation of protein aggregates, which can result in neuronal death and the onset of a number of neurological disorders called Tauopathies. At present, there are no available therapeutic remedies able to reduce Tau aggregation, nor are there any structural clues or guidelines for the rational identification of compounds preventing the accumulation of protein aggregates. To help identify the structural properties required for anti-Tau aggregation activity, we performed extensive chemoinformatics analyses on a dataset of Tau ligands reported in ChEMBL. The performed analyses allowed us to identify a set of molecular properties that are in common between known active ligands. Moreover, extensive analyses of the fragment composition of reported ligands led to the identification of chemical moieties and fragment combinations prevalent in the more active compounds. Interestingly, many of these fragments were arranged in recurring frameworks, some of which were clearly present in compounds currently under clinical investigation. This work represents the first in-depth chemoinformatics study of the molecular properties, constituting fragments and similarity profiles, of known Tau aggregation inhibitors. The datasets of compounds employed for the analyses, the identified molecular fragments and their combinations are made publicly available as supplementary material.
A Laser Reduced Graphene Oxide Grid Electrode for the Voltammetric Determination of Carbaryl
Authors: Saqib Muhammad , Dorozhko Elena V. , Barek Jiri , Vyskocil Vlastimil , Korotkova Elena I. , Shabalina Anastasiia V.
Published: August 2021

Laser-reduced graphene oxide (LRGO) on a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrate was prepared in one step to obtain the LRGO grid electrode for sensitive carbaryl determination. The grid form results in a grid distribution of different electrochemically active zones affecting the electroactive substance diffusion towards the electrode surface and increasing the electrochemical sensitivity for carbaryl determination. Carbaryl is electrochemically irreversibly oxidized at the secondary amine moiety of the molecule with the loss of one proton and one electron in the pH range from 5 to 7 by linear scan voltammetry (LSV) on the LRGO grid electrode with a scan rate of 300 mV/s. Some interference of the juice matrix molecules does not significantly affect the LSV oxidation current of carbaryl on the LRGO grid electrode after adsorptive accumulation without applied potential. The LRGO grid electrode can be used for LSV determination of carbaryl in fruit juices in the concentration range from 0.25 to 128 mg/L with LOD of 0.1 mg/L. The fabrication of the LRGO grid electrode opens up possibilities for further inexpensive monitoring of carbaryl in other fruit juices and fruits
Factors and Tools for Managing the Competitiveness of the Machine-Building Complex
Authors:   Academy of Public Administration under the President of the Republic of Belarus., Senko Anna N. , Bliznyuk Olga S. ,   Belarussian State University.
Published: August 2021

The article defines the main factors of increasing the competitiveness of the machine-building complex in the integration economic area. The relationship between the factors of comparative competitive advantages of export-oriented engineering production and the structure of commodity exports is presented in the article. A methodology for assessing the competitiveness of the machine-building complex is proposed, which is focused on determining its comparative advantages in prospective segments of export commodity groups. The results of testing the methodology on the basis of statistical data of export segments of the commodity groups of machine-building industry in the CIS countries are presented.
Printing Outsourcing: Local Market with Global Dominance
Authors:   Russian Academy of National Economy and Public Administration under the President of the Russian Federation (RANEPA)., Chasovikov Maxim A.
Published: August 2021

Using the example of print outsourcing, the article examines the problems of analyzing and forecasting markets that significantly depend on the global players' behaviour. At the same time provisions of the economic domination theory allow, through highlighting the typical strategies of market participants, to identify a number of new trends emerging in the market and opening up for Russian companies. First of all, they have to do with such processes as transition to electronic document management, expansion of the sphere of product labeling and traceability systems. In addition, the 2020 crisis has resulted in creation of a new demand for organizing home workplaces, changing the requirements for IT systems architecture in large offices. Based on the case studies of the companies that are present on the market, the author draws up conclusions on notable changes in the role of large Russian companies in this market, including under the impact of transformations on the related markets.
Strategy of Socio-Demographic Development of Russia and the Main Guidelines for Social Doctrine of the Russian Federation in 2025–2030
Authors:   Institute of Socio-Economic Studies of Population of the Russian Academy of Sciences (ISESP RAS), Dobrokhleb Valentina G. ,   Institute for Demographic Research of the RAS Federal Scientific-Research Sociological Center., Yakovets Tatiana Y. ,   Pitirim Sorokin — Nikolay Kondratiev International Institute.
Published: August 2021

The article analyzes the current situation and long-term strategy in the sphere of fertility and mortality in Russia. Methodology for elaborating the social doctrine of the Russian Federation in 2025–2030 is addressed.
Financial Flows Matrix — a Tool for Implementing the Country’s Economic Policy
Authors:   Institute for Economic Strategies, Ageev Aleksandr I. ,   International Research Institute for Advanced Systems,   MGIMO University,   MEPhI,   Lomonosov Moscow State University., Bakhtizin Al’bert R. ,   Central Economics and Mathematics Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences., Bakhtizina Nafisa V. ,   Central Economics and Mathematics Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences., Narayanan Badri ,   Washington State University., Steinbuks Jevgenijs , Khabriev Bulat R. ,   Central Economics and Mathematics Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences.
Published: August 2021

The article discusses a promising and well-proven tool for analyzing economic relations in socio-economic systems, which is actively used all over the world — the matrix of financial flows. The paper identifies the main areas of its application and briefly describes the history of its development in the world and specifically for Russia. The author also features the process of constructing a matrix for 12 economic regions of our country by types of economic activity. In the course of filling with statistical data the problem of assessing the volume of interregional trade was identified, which made it necessary to undertake an additional research, the results of which are presented in the article. In conclusion an example of practical use of the constructed matrix as an independent tool, as well as part of a more complex economic and mathematical model, is demonstrated.
Strategic Factor of Energy in Changing the Trend of Catching-up Technological Development
Authors:   Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation, Shcherbakov Victor N. ,   Institute of Economy of the Russian Academy of Sciences., Dubrovsky Andrey V. ,   Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation.
Published: August 2021

The article examines the problems of structural modernization of the Russian economy in relation to applying the fuel and energy complex potential. The author reveals regularities of structural modernization and identifies the role of the fuel and energy complex as the most important element for developing the country's productive forces. Creating a trajectory of sustainable economic growth requires an increased efficiency of using the energy complex potential. It is substantiated hat the low technical and technological level of extractive and processing sectors of the fuel and energy complex, pricing imbalances, ruble devaluation don't meet the strategic goals of industrial development and achieving economic security.
Digital Transformation of National Security in the Context of Global Hybrid Threats
Authors:   Institute for Economic Strategies, Ageev Aleksandr I. ,   International Research Institute for Advanced Systems,   MGIMO University,   MEPhI,   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Averyanov Maxim A. ,   CIT Group of Companies., Evtushenko Sergey N. , Kochetova Elena Yu. ,   CIT Group of Companies., Sivakov Ruslan L. ,   CIT Group of Companies.
Published: August 2021

In this article, the authors raise the issues of compliance (adequacy) of the ideology, approaches and infrastructure of the national security system in the light of global changes in the economy, de facto hybrid wars and ongoing natural and environmental emergencies. As a central element of preparation for such events and reaction to them, the authors considers mobilization in the classical sense, enshrined in the legislation, analyzes it for compliance with current hybrid threats, and also suggests new approaches to the digital transformation of the complex system of national security and mobilization, in particular.
Polarization Flipping of Even-Order Harmonics in Monolayer Transition-Metal Dichalcogenides
Authors: Kobayashi Yuki , Heide Christian , Kelardeh Hamed Koochaki , Johnson Amalya , Liu Fang , Heinz Tony F. , Reis David A. , Ghimire Shambhu
Published: August 2021

We present a systematic study of the crystal-orientation dependence of high-harmonic generation in monolayer transition-metal dichalcogenides, WS
2
and MoSe
2
, subjected to intense linearly polarized midinfrared laser fields. The measured spectra consist of both odd- and even-order harmonics, with a high-energy cutoff extending beyond the 15th order for a laser-field strength around ~1 V/nm. In WS
2
, we find that the polarization direction of the odd-order harmonics smoothly follows that of the laser field irrespective of the crystal orientation, whereas the direction of the even-order harmonics is fixed by the crystal mirror planes. Furthermore, the polarization of the even-order harmonics shows a flip in the course of crystal rotation when the laser field lies between two of the crystal mirror planes. By numerically solving the semiconductor Bloch equations for a gapped-graphene model, we qualitatively reproduce these experimental features and find the polarization flipping to be associated with a significant contribution from interband polarization. In contrast, high-harmonic signals from MoSe
2
exhibit deviations from the laser-field following of odd-order harmonics and crystal-mirror-plane following of even-order harmonics. We attribute these differences to the competing roles of the intraband and interband contributions, including the deflection of the electron-hole trajectories by nonparabolic crystal bands.
A GENERALIZAÇÃO DOS QUATÉRNIOS DE NARAYANA
Authors: Vieira Renata Passos Machado , Vieira Alves Francisco Regis , Machado Cruz Catarino Paula Maria
Published: August 2021

A pesquisa retrata uma discussão matemática em torno dos quatérnions de Narayana e da sua generalização para os números inteiros não positivos. Como resultados, tem-se que a partir do estudo da definição dos quatérions de Narayna, são investigadas algumas propriedades matemáticas, além de retratar a sua forma matricial, função geradora, fórmula de Binet e dentre outros aspectos matemáticos.