bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contos de Kolimá
Authors: Villaça Davi Lopes
Published: December 2020

A prosa de Varlam Tíkhonovitch Chalámov (1907-1982), sobrevivente dos campos de trabalho forçados soviéticos durante o regime de Stalin, é um monumento ao papel fundamental da arte de contar histórias na luta humana contra a morte e o esquecimento. Tendo realizado algumas considerações gerais sobre a experiência de Chalámov no gulag, tal como retratada em sua obra, proponho, a partir da análise de dois de seus contos, presentes no primeiro volume da série Contos de Kolimá, refletir a respeito da relação do autor com a literatura e a escrita.
Effect of haemolysis on an enzymatic measurement of ethanol
Authors: Çat Abdulkadir , Uçar Kamil Taha , Gümüş Alper
Published: December 2020

Introduction: We investigated the interference of haemolysis on ethanol testing carried out with the Synchron assay kit using an AU680 autoanalyser
(Beckman Coulter, Brea, USA).
Materials and methods: Two tubes of plasma samples were collected from 20 volunteers. Mechanical haemolysis was performed in one tube,
and no other intervention was performed in the other tube. After centrifugation, haemolysed and non-haemolysed samples were diluted to obtain
samples with the desired free haemoglobin (Hb) values (0, 1, 2, 5, 10 g/L). A portion of these samples was then separated, and ethanol was added to
the separated sample to obtain a concentration of 86.8 mmol/L ethanol. After that, these samples were diluted with ethanol-free samples with the
same Hb concentration to obtain samples containing 43.4, 21.7, and 10.9 mmol/L. Each group was divided into 20 equal parts, and an ethanol test
was carried out. The coefficient of variation (CV), bias, and total error (TE) values were calculated.
Results: The TE values of haemolysis-free samples were approximately 2-5%, and the TE values of haemolysed samples were approximately 10-
18%. The bias values of haemolysed samples ranged from nearly - 6.2 to - 15.7%.
Conclusions: Haemolysis led to negative interference in all samples. However, based on the 25% allowable total error value specified for ethanol in
the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA 88) criteria, the TE values did not exceed 25%. Consequently, ethanol concentration can be
measured in samples containing free Hb up to 10 g/L.
Reproduction probabilities and size distributions of the smooth snake Coronella austriaca in the Netherlands and Norway
Authors: Dalessi Domin , Bolle Harm , Jongejans Eelke , Sørensen Pål , Siepel Henk
Published: December 2020

Whether females participate in reproduction every year or rather skip years is pivotal information for understanding the dynamics of animal populations. In ectotherms this reproduction frequency might depend on factors like temperature, individual size, and prey availability. Here we studied the reproduction rate of the smooth snake Coronella austriaca at two latitudes: in Norway and The Netherlands. Reproductive and morphological data were collected in Norway (34 years) and The Netherlands (5 years). To account for differential resighting probabilities of pregnant and non-pregnant females, we performed multi-state mark-recapture analyses. Reproductive rate, quantified as the probability of participating in reproduction in consecutive years, was calculated for both pregnant and non-pregnant females. The results showed a clear difference in reproductive rate between the two latitudes, with only 15% of pregnant females reproducing again in the following year in Norway versus 93% in The Netherlands. Furthermore, in Norway females grew larger and started reproduction at a higher age. Litter size and juvenile total length and body mass were also significantly higher in Norwegian smooth snakes.
Application of Artificial Neural Networks for Heart Disease Prediction
Authors: Suyash Kumar , Shobha K. R.
Published: December 2020

Heart related diseases are on a rise throughout the world. While the WHO estimates 31% of all deaths worldwide are caused by heart related diseases, some estimates even attribute 18 million deaths throughout the world due to such diseases. Although, the monumental strides in the field
of machine learning, especially neural networks have enabled us to solve complex recognition problems, we still at large have been unable to utilize their power to the maximum in the data rich medical science field. These networks can in fact be used to construct intelligent systems which
can help predict the presence of heart diseases in their early stages. Such intelligent systems shall result in significant life savings due to the readily available timely medical care and the following treatments. Encompassing the techniques of classification, a supervised learning approach
of machine learning, in these intelligent systems can be aimed at pinpointing the accurate diagnosis. This paper thus, proposes a diagnostic system for predicting the presence of heart diseases using neural networks with back propagation.
Novel Framework for Quality Retention on Educational Big Data
Authors: Shidaganti Ganeshayya , Sheelvanthmath Prakash
Published: December 2020

Adoption of big data concept towards managing increasing data from the educational sector will have various benefits in terms of knowledge sharing process. The existing research approaches towards managing educational data in terms of high end analytics is either missing or is quite
narrowed that doesn’t encapsulate the concept of big data implementation with practical problem. Therefore, this paper presents a discussion of a distributed framework that is capable of performing transformation of raw educational data arriving from distributed sources followed by applying
a novel mining approach in order to ensure the final data with highest quality. The term quality interprets as a dynamic educational big data to be highly structured and free from any form of artifacts. Result analysis shows that proposed system offer faster transformation time and better
data purity over synthetic educational big data.
Comparative Study of Data Mining Classifiers for Students’ Academic Performance
Authors: Rattan Vikas , Mittal Ruchi , Malik Varun
Published: December 2020

Tremendous growth of educational institutions forced educational institutes to adopt data mining techniques to bring out important and yet unknown facts from educational data to have a competitive edge over their counterparts. In this paper, student performance dataset comprises of
131 records is taken from UCI repository and data mining tool Orange is used to study the comparative analyses of accuracy for classifying the performance of student in graduation using four classifiers namely random forest, k nearest neighbor (KNN), decision tree and naïve bayes.
The result shows that decision tree accuracy is highest among all other classifier
Assimilating In Situ and Remote Sensing Observations in a Highly Variable Estuary–Shelf Model
Authors: Lai Wenfeng , Gan Jianping , Liu Ye , Liu Zhiqiang , Xie Jiping , Zhu Jiang
Published: December 2020

To improve the forecasting performance in dynamically active coastal waters forced by winds, tides, and river discharges in a coupled estuary–shelf model off Hong Kong, a multivariable data assimilation (DA) system using the ensemble optimal interpolation method has been developed and implemented. The system assimilates the conductivity–temperature–depth (CTD) profilers, time series buoy measurement, and remote sensing sea surface temperature (SST) data into a high-resolution estuary–shelf ocean model around Hong Kong. We found that the time window selection associated with the local dynamics and the number of observation samples are two key factors in improving assimilation in the unique estuary–shelf system. DA with a varied assimilation time window that is based on the intratidal variation in the local dynamics can reduce the errors in the estimation of the innovation vector caused by the model–observation mismatch at the analysis time and improve simulation greatly in both the estuary and coastal regions. Statistically, the overall root-mean-square error (RMSE) between the DA forecasts and not-yet-assimilated observations for temperature and salinity has been reduced by 33.0% and 31.9% in the experiment period, respectively. By assimilating higher-resolution remote sensing SST data instead of lower-resolution satellite SST, the RMSE of SST is improved by ~18%. Besides, by assimilating real-time buoy mooring data, the model bias can be continuously corrected both around the buoy location and beyond. The assimilation of the combined buoy, CTD, and SST data can provide an overall improvement of the simulated three-dimensional solution. A dynamics-oriented assimilation scheme is essential for the improvement of model forecasting in the estuary–shelf system under multiple forcings.
Formative work to design a digital learning self-assessment and feedback tool to prevent weight gain among college students
Authors: Napolitano Melissa A , Lynch Sarah Beth , Mavredes Meghan N , Shambon Benjamin D , Posey Laurie
Published: December 2020

Objective

While colleges have implemented brief, tailored interventions for health-risk areas such as alcohol prevention, theoretically-guided digital learning offerings for weight gain prevention have lagged behind in programming and implementation. Thus, the objective was to design and usability test a weight gain prevention digital learning platform for college students with modules targeting key nutrition and physical activity behaviors.

Methods

Development occurred in iterative phases: formative research, descriptive normative data collection, prototype development, and usability testing. Formative research consisted of background work and survey administration to incoming and current freshmen. Prototype development was guided by theories of behavior change and cognitive processing, and consisted of brief assessment and feedback using written text, graphs, and videos. Iterative usability testing was conducted.

Results

Current freshmen reported eating more quick order meals per week than incoming freshman, but fewer high-fat snacks and fewer sugary beverages. Current freshmen reported more sedentary time than incoming freshmen. Based on iterative testing results, eight behavioral targets were established: breakfast, high-fat snacks, fried foods, sugary beverages, fruit/vegetables, physical activity, pizza intake, and sedentary behavior. Initial usability testers indicated the modules were easy to understand, held their attention, and were somewhat novel. Analysis of qualitative feedback revealed themes related to content, layout, structure and suggested refinements to the modules.

Conclusions

A gap exists for evidence-based obesity prevention programs targeted to adolescents as they transition into adulthood. Brief, tailored digital learning interventions show promise towards addressing key behavioral nutrition and physical activity targets among students during the transition to college.
The Gardos effect drives erythrocyte senescence and leads to Lu/BCAM and CD44 adhesion molecule activation
Authors: Klei Thomas R. L. , Dalimot Jill J. , Beuger Boukje M. , Veldthuis Martijn , Ichou Fatima Ait , Verkuijlen Paul J. J. H. , Seignette Iris M. , Ligthart Peter C. , Kuijpers Taco W. , van Zwieten Rob , van Bruggen Robin
Published: December 2020

Senescence of erythrocytes is characterized by a series of changes that precede their removal from the circulation, including loss of red cell hydration, membrane shedding, loss of deformability, phosphatidyl serine exposure, reduced membrane sialic acid content, and adhesion molecule activation. Little is known about the mechanisms that initiate these changes nor is it known whether they are interrelated. In this study, we show that Ca2+-dependent K+ efflux (the Gardos effect) drives erythrocyte senescence. We found that increased intracellular Ca2+ activates the Gardos channel, leading to shedding of glycophorin-C (GPC)–containing vesicles. This results in a loss of erythrocyte deformability but also in a marked loss of membrane sialic acid content. We found that GPC-derived sialic acid residues suppress activity of both Lutheran/basal cell adhesion molecule (Lu/BCAM) and CD44 by the formation of a complex on the erythrocyte membrane, and Gardos channel–mediated shedding of GPC results in Lu/BCAM and CD44 activation. This phenomenon was observed as erythrocytes aged and on erythrocytes that were otherwise prone to clearance from the circulation, such as sickle erythrocytes, erythrocytes stored for transfusion, or artificially dehydrated erythrocytes. These novel findings provide a unifying concept on erythrocyte senescence in health and disease through initiation of the Gardos effect.
A toolkit for the collection of thrombosis-related data elements in COVID-19 clinical studies
Authors: Siegal Deborah M. , Barnes Geoffrey D. , Langlois Nicole J. , Lee Adrienne , Middeldorp Saskia , Skeith Leslie , Wood William A. , Le Gal Grégoire
Published: December 2020

Thrombosis has emerged as an important complication of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), particularly among individuals with severe illness. However, the precise incidence of thrombotic events remains uncertain due to differences in study design, patient populations, outcome ascertainment, event definitions, and reporting. In an effort to overcome some of these challenges and promote standardized data collection and reporting in clinical studies, the American Society of Hematology Research Collaborative COVID-19 Non-Malignant Hematology Task Force, in collaboration with the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis COVID-19 Task Force, developed sets of data elements in the following domains: venous thromboembolism, myocardial infarction, stroke/transient ischemic attack, peripheral arterial thrombosis, bleeding, laboratory investigations, and antithrombotic therapy. Data elements in each of these domains were developed with 3 levels of detail to facilitate their incorporation into studies evaluating a range of interventions and outcomes. Previously published data elements were included where possible. The use of standardized variables in a range of clinical studies can enhance the quality of data collection, create efficiency, enhance comparison of results across studies, and facilitate future pooling of data sets.
Double-hit lymphoma of the male breast: a case report
Authors: Elgaafary Shaymaa , Nagel Inga , López Cristina , Bens Susanne , Szczepanowski Monika , Wagener Rabea , Klapper Wolfram , Siebert Reiner
Published: December 2020

Background

Whereas lymphoma of the female breast is already rare, lymphoma of the male breast has only anecdotally been reported. Within a study of 32 lymphoma of the breast reported between 1973 and 2014 as Burkitt lymphoma, we observed a single male case, which we report here.

Case presentation

A 72-years-old Caucasian man presented with a mass in his left breast. Clinical history included prior basal cell carcinoma, leiomyosarcoma, and administration of spironolactone. The reference pathology diagnosis at presentation was Burkitt lymphoma according to the Kiel Classification. The present re-investigation using fluorescence in situ hybridization revealed an IGH-MYC translocation and a break in the BCL2 locus in the tumor cells. Thus, in light of the current WHO classification, the diagnosis was revised to high-grade B-cell lymphoma with MYC and BCL2 rearrangement, Burkitt morphology (so-called “double-hit” lymphoma). Genome-wide chromosomal imbalance mapping revealed a complex pattern of aberrations in line with this diagnosis. The aberrations, including copy-number gains in chromosomes 3q and 18 and focal homozygous loss in 9p21.3, resembled typical changes of lymphomas affecting “immune-privileged” sites.

Conclusion

The present case adds to the understanding of the pathogenesis of male breast lymphomas, about which hardly any molecular characterization has been published yet.
Pathophysiology and clinical consequences of arterial blood gases and pH after cardiac arrest
Authors: Robba Chiara , Siwicka-Gieroba Dorota , Sikter Andras , Battaglini Denise , Dąbrowski Wojciech , Schultz Marcus J. , de Jonge Evert , Grim Chloe , Rocco Patricia RM , Pelosi Paolo
Published: December 2020

Post cardiac arrest syndrome is associated with high morbidity and mortality, which is related not only to a poor neurological outcome but also to respiratory and cardiovascular dysfunctions. The control of gas exchange, and in particular oxygenation and carbon dioxide levels, is fundamental in mechanically ventilated patients after resuscitation, as arterial blood gases derangement might have important effects on the cerebral blood flow and systemic physiology.

In particular, the pathophysiological role of carbon dioxide (CO2) levels is strongly underestimated, as its alterations quickly affect also the changes of intracellular pH, and consequently influence metabolic energy and oxygen demand. Hypo/hypercapnia, as well as mechanical ventilation during and after resuscitation, can affect CO2 levels and trigger a dangerous pathophysiological vicious circle related to the relationship between pH, cellular demand, and catecholamine levels. The developing hypocapnia can nullify the beneficial effects of the hypothermia. The aim of this review was to describe the pathophysiology and clinical consequences of arterial blood gases and pH after cardiac arrest.

According to our findings, the optimal ventilator strategies in post cardiac arrest patients are not fully understood, and oxygen and carbon dioxide targets should take in consideration a complex pattern of pathophysiological factors. Further studies are warranted to define the optimal settings of mechanical ventilation in patients after cardiac arrest.
The predictive validity for mortality of the driving pressure and the mechanical power of ventilation
Authors:   for the MARS Consortium, van Meenen David M. P. , Serpa Neto Ary , Paulus Frederique , Merkies Coen , Schouten Laura R. , Bos Lieuwe D. , Horn Janneke , Juffermans Nicole P. , Cremer Olaf L. , van der Poll Tom , Schultz Marcus J.
Published: December 2020

Background

Outcome prediction in critically ill patients under invasive ventilation remains extremely challenging. The driving pressure (ΔP) and the mechanical power of ventilation (MP) are associated with patient-centered outcomes like mortality and duration of ventilation. The objective of this study was to assess the predictive validity for mortality of the ΔP and the MP at 24 h after start of invasive ventilation.

Methods

This is a post hoc analysis of an observational study in intensive care unit patients, restricted to critically ill patients receiving invasive ventilation for at least 24 h. The two exposures of interest were the modified ΔP and the MP at 24 h after start of invasive ventilation. The primary outcome was 90-day mortality; secondary outcomes were ICU and hospital mortality. The predictive validity was measured as incremental 90-day mortality beyond that predicted by the Acute Physiology, Age and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) IV score and the Simplified Acute Physiology Score (SAPS) II.

Results

The analysis included 839 patients with a 90-day mortality of 42%. The median modified ΔP at 24 h was 15 [interquartile range 12 to 19] cm H2O; the median MP at 24 h was 206 [interquartile range 145 to 298] 10−3 J/min/kg predicted body weight (PBW). Both parameters were associated with 90-day mortality (odds ratio (OR) for 1 cm H2O increase in the modified ΔP, 1.05 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.03 to 1.08]; P < 0.001; OR for 100 10−3 J/min/kg PBW increase in the MP, 1.20 [95% CI 1.09 to 1.33]; P < 0.001). Area under the ROC for 90-day mortality of the modified ΔP and the MP were 0.70 [95% CI 0.66 to 0.74] and 0.69 [95% CI 0.65 to 0.73], which was neither different from that of the APACHE IV score nor that of the SAPS II.

Conclusions

In adult patients under invasive ventilation, the modified ΔP and the MP at 24 h are associated with 90 day mortality. Neither the modified ΔP nor the MP at 24 h has predictive validity beyond the APACHE IV score and the SAPS II.
Implementation fidelity of nutritional counselling, iron and folic acid supplementation guidelines and associated challenges in rural Uasin Gishu County Kenya
Authors: Riang’a Roselyter Monchari , Nangulu Anne Kisaka , Broerse Jacqueline E. W.
Published: December 2020

Background

Implementation fidelity which is defined as the degree to which programmes are implemented as intended is one of the factors that affect programme outcome, thus requiring careful examination. This study aims to acquire insight into the degree to which nutritional counselling and Iron and Folic Acid supplementation (IFAs) policy guidelines during pregnancy have been implemented as intended and the challenges to implementation fidelity.

Methods

Data were collected in rural Uasin Gishu County in the western part of Kenya through document analysis, questionnaires among intervention recipients (n = 188) and semi-structured interviews with programme implementers (n = 6). Data collection and analysis were guided by an implementation fidelity framework. We specifically evaluated adherence to intervention design (content, frequency, duration and coverage), exposure or dosage, quality of delivery and participant responsiveness.

Results

Coverage of nutritional counselling and IFAs policy is widespread. However, partial provision was reported in all the intervention components. Only 10% accessed intervention within the first trimester as recommended by policy guidelines, only 28% reported receiving nutritional counselling, only 18 and 15% of the respondents received 90 or more iron and folic acid pills respectively during their entire pregnancy period, and 66% completed taking the IFAs pills that were issued to them. Late initial bookings to antenatal care, drug stock shortage, staff shortage and long queues, confusing dosage instructions, side effects of the pills and issuing of many pills at one go, were established to be the main challenges to effective implementation fidelity. Anticipated health consequences and emphasis by the health officer to comply with instructions were established to be motivations for adherence to nutritional counselling and IFAs guidelines.

Conclusions

Implementation fidelity of nutritional counselling and IFAs policy in Kenya is generally weak. There is need for approaches to enhance early access to interventions, enhance stock availability, provide mitigation measures for the side effects, as well as intensify nutritional counselling to promote the consumption of micronutrient-rich food sources available in the local environment to substitute for the shortage of nutritional supplements and low compliance to IFAs.
Juvenile fish assemblages in the Jinju Bay region, Korea
Authors: Myoung Se Hun , Kwak Seok Nam , Kim Jin-Koo , Lee Won-Chan , Kim Jeong Bae , Kim Hyung Chul , Williamson Jane E.
Published: December 2020

Assemblages of juvenile fish and associated abiotic parameters were investigated inside and outside Jinju Bay in southern Korea, on a monthly basis from December 2014 to November 2015. Fluctuations in water temperature and salinity were larger inside than outside the bay. In total, 534,657 individuals per square kilometre from 81 fish species and 47 families were collected during the study period. The most dominant species wasNuchequula nuchalisboth inside (25.6%) and outside (26.9%) the bay. The next dominant species wereThryssa kammalensis(17.9%) andZoarces gillii(16.0%) inside the bay andLiparis tanakae(16.9%) andT.kammalensis(9.0%) outside the bay. Forty species (33% of total number of individuals) of young fish were recorded inside the bay and 47 species (52%) outside the bay. Therefore, it appears that a diversity of fish use nursery grounds inside and outside Jinju Bay. In particular, the following six species appeared:Z. gillii,Pleuronichthys cornutus,L. tanakae,Hemitripterus villosus,Pennahia argentata, andXenocephalus elongates. Due to assemblage differences for fishes within Jinju Bay and outside the bay, management of both areas is required to maintain current diversity of species in the region.
Comparative efficacy of Amprolium, Garlic oil (Allium sativum) and Ginger oil (Zingiber officinale) against Coccidiosis in common quail (Coturnix coturnix)
Authors: ASGHAR M. , DURRANI U.F. , HUSSAIN R. , MATLOOB K. , MAHMOOD A.K. , ANEES M. , ONEEB M.
Published: December 2020

In birds, Eimeria species are commonly reported coccidian parasites that cause anorexia, debilitation, bloody diarrhea, mortalities and economical losses. This study was conducted on 30 clinical cases of common quails presented at Pet Centre, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, suffering from coccidiosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate in vivo comparative anti-coccidial efficacy of amprolium, garlic oil and ginger oil. Drinking water of affected birds was supplemented with amprolium (130 mg/1000 mL), garlic oil (150μL/100 mL) and ginger oil (150μL/100 mL) for 15 days and fecal sample screening for coccidia oocyst count was performed on days 0, 3, 5, 7, 11 and 15 using direct microscopy with fecal floatation method and McMaster chamber counting technique. Data was statistically analyzed which revealed that amprolium showed highest and rapid efficacy against coccidiosis with complete disappearance of oocysts and improved activity level with better health, increased feed intake and normal feces on day 11, followed by garlic oil that showed recovery from oocysts on day 15, whereas in ginger oil treated birds oocysts were present till the end of study. It was concluded that amprolium is highly effective against coccidiosis followed by garlic oil; on the other hand, ginger oil was not clinically effective for the treatment of coccidiosis in quails.
First occurrences of Nerocila bivittata on Dusky Grouper (Ephinephelus marginatus) and Mottled Grouper (Mycteroperca rubra)
Authors: ÇELIK S.Y. , KORUN J. , GÖKOĞLU M.
Published: December 2020

The parasitic Isopod Nerocila bivittata was collected from caudal fins and body surface of dusky grouper (Ephinephelus marginatus) and mottled grouper (Mycteroperca rubra) captured by commercial trawl vessels as non-target species from Antalya Bay which is located in the eastern Mediterranean coast of Turkey. The parasites caused typically hemorrhages on caudal fins of both hosts. The parasitic isopod was identified as Nerocila bivittata which has not been reported from groupers in the worldwide. The study represents new hosts and geographical records.
Effect of iron oxide and silver nanoparticles on boar semen CASA motility and kinetics
Authors: BASIOURA A. , MICHOS I. , NTEMKA A. , KARAGIANNIS I. , BOSCOS C.M.
Published: December 2020

The objective of the study was to investigate the potential toxic effect of iron oxide (Fe3O4) and silver (Ag/Fe) spherical nanoparticles (NPs) as alternative antimicrobial compounds on boar semen. The NPs’ minimum inhibitory concentration was determined applying the in vitro antimicrobial activity evaluation test and included in the experiment. Totally, 9 ejaculates (3 boars; 3 ejaculates/boar) were extended in BTS without antibiotics at 30×106 spermatozoa/mL and divided in 3 aliquots corresponding to the following groups: 1) Control group (C): extended semen without treatment; 2) Iron oxide group (Fe): extended semen with Fe3O4 NPs of diameter 40 nm (0.192 mg/mL semen); and 3) Silver group (Ag): extended semen with Ag/Fe NPs of diameter 30 nm, consisted of Ag and a 5% of zero-valent Fe (0.128 mg/mL semen). Semen samples of all groups were incubated at 17o C for 30 min following NPs’ removal through a magnetic field. All post treated samples were stored at 17o C for 48 h. Total motility (TM) and kinetics (progressive motility PM; rapid/medium/slow movement spermatozoa; static spermatozoa; VCL; VSL; VAP; LIN; STR; WOB; ALH; BCF; hyperactive spermatozoa) were evaluated by CASA system at 0, 24 and 48 h post treatment. Data were analyzed with a repeated measures mixed model. Group Fe did not differ from group C at any time point. TM and PM were lower at 24 h of storage in group Ag compared to groups C and Fe (all P<0.001). By 48 h of storage spermatozoa of group Ag were totally immotile and thus excluded from analysis. The comparison within groups and between storage time points showed that the values of TM, PM, VCL, VAP, ALH and BCF decreased after 24 h of storage in group Ag (all P<0.05), but not in groups C and Fe, while no significant differences were observed for the remaining parameters between successive time points within any group (P>0.05). In conclusion, Ag/Fe NPs demonstrated a harmful effect on boar spermatozoa, while the used concentration of the examined Fe3O4 NPs did not affect boar sperm CASA motility parameters enhancing further research about their application on semen handling.
COVID-19 vaccine delivery: an opportunity to set up systems for the future
Authors: Weintraub Rebecca , Plotkin Stanley , Liu Margaret , Kim Jerome , Garcon Natalie , Bell David , Storisteanu Dan , Norman Toby , Aronoff-Spencer Eliah
Published: December 2020

The race to develop safe and effective SARS-COV-2 vaccines has moved with unprecedented speed. There are now multiple promising candidates seeking emergency use authorization from the United States Food and Drug Administration and a host of candidates positioned for approval worldwide. Attention has now turned to allocation, distribution and verification of these vaccines, yet this focus exposes that the underlying infrastructure for global delivery and monitoring is threadbare and unevenly distributed. This presents both a barrier and an opportunity to deploy sustainable infrastructure. Major global stakeholders must convene quickly, collaborate, and collectively invest in global standards, legal models, common vocabularies and interoperable biometric-supported digital health technologies. As the COVID-19 vaccine effort scales, governments, private sector and NGOs have the chance to place lasting resources needed for equitable and effective delivery that can pay dividends into the future.
Can the early stage copepad (Copepodites and Naupliies) abundance play important role on the fatty acid composition of Sagitta setosa (Chaetognatha) in the Southeastern Black Sea?
Authors: Sen Özdemir Nurgül , Feyzioglu Ali Muzaffer , Caf Fatma
Published: December 2020

In this study, the relationship between the fatty acid composition, abundance of carnivore Sagitta setosa (S. setosa) and total copepod abundance (copepodites and nauplii) which are the main diets of S. setosa was investigated. Sampling was conducted monthly during a year. During the sampling period, S. setosa and the total the copepod abundance showed a parallel distribution until November. Average total lipid was at the highest with 3% in spring and autumn, while the lowest was 2% in winter and summer. While DHA/EPA ratio (2.23) as carnivory index in S. setosa and the total copepod (copepodites and nauplii) abundance (1375 ind/m3) were at the highest in winter, but another carnivory index, 18:1ω9/18:1ω7 ratio did not show a parallel increase with copepod abundance. However, 18:1ω9 which increases the carnivory index, is among the main fatty acids in S. setosa. This might be indicated that S. setosa does not related to predation on the copepods, but it shows that feeding in a carnivorous style. Additionally, the herbivory index ∑ n-3/∑ n-6 ratio was detected in spring and autumn at the highest level. Consequently, although there is no direct effect between the copepod abundance and S. setosa fatty acids, it is possible an indirect effect.
Left views on liberal protests in Russia (review of Osin's monograph «Left forces and spontaneous protest: history, lessons, modernity, prospects»)
Authors: Matyukhin A.
Published: December 2020

This review is an analysis of the monograph of Roman Osin, candidate of philosophy, associate Professor of the Department of fundamental legal and social-humanitarian disciplines at synergy University "Left forces and spontaneous protest: history, lessons, modernity, prospects". The monograph examines the political and socio-class nature of the mass protests of 2011-2013 from the perspective of Marxist methodology and tactics of the Russian left movement in them. The monograph is of interest both from the point of view of studying the protest and left-wing movements of the early 2010s, and from the point of view of the methodology for understanding the phenomenon of "color" revolutions in General. The author analyzes the social composition of the protesters, their political views, as well as the political forces of the protest and their tactics based on the empirical material of sociological research, as well as personal experience of participating in the ongoing processes. Based on the study, R.S. Osin concludes that the protest was generally "petty-bourgeois" in nature and could not lead to fundamental changes in the basis of society. At the same time, from the author's point of view, this protest was an important milestone in the development of the politicization of Russian society and could not fail to be a useful experience for Russian citizens. Analyzing the tactics of the left forces, R.S. Osin notes as a disadvantage the political and ideological inconsistency of many left-wing organizations, which benefited the liberal protest forces or the authorities. From the point of view Of R.S. Osin, the most correct tactic was the tactics of those organizations that simultaneously opposed the liberal and state-Patriotic forces, which in practice means participating in protests with their own independent agenda. In conclusion, R.S. Osin expresses his own point of view on the need for fundamental changes in society, reveals the concept of social and political revolutions, and also States the thesis that only the organized labor movement and other layers of workers can change the system of industrial relations in the country. Despite the obvious ideological color of the work and the use of exclusively Marxist methodology as the research base, R.S. Osin's monograph is of scientific interest and can be used to study the modern protest and left-wing movement.
Is the Quantum State Real in the Hilbert Space Formulation?
Authors: Bhaumik Mani L.
Published: December 2020

The persistent debate about the reality of a quantum state has recently come under limelight because of its importance to quantum information and the quantum computing community. Almost all of the deliberations are taking place using the elegant and powerful but abstract Hilbert space formalism of quantum mechanics developed with seminal contributions from John von Neumann. Since it is rather difficult to get a direct perception of the events in an abstract vector space, it is hard to trace the progress of a phenomenon. Among the multitude of recent attempts to show the reality of the quantum state in Hilbert space, the Pusey–Barrett–Rudolph theory gets most recognition for their proof. But some of its assumptions have been criticized, which are still not considered to be entirely loophole free. A straightforward proof of the reality of the wave packet function of a single particle has been presented earlier based on the currently recognized fundamental reality of the universal quantum fields. Quantum states like the atomic energy levels comprising the wave packets have been shown to be just as real. Here we show that an unambiguous proof of reality of the quantum states gleaned from the reality of quantum fields can also provide an explicit substantiation of the reality of quantum states in Hilbert space.Quanta 2020; 9: 37–46.
Crusted scabies; a 2-year prospective study from the Northern Territory of Australia
Authors: Hasan Tasnim , Krause Victoria L. , James Christian , Currie Bart J.
Published: December 2020

Background

Scabies is listed as a neglected tropical disease by the World Health Organization. Crusted scabies affects vulnerable and immunosuppressed individuals and is highly contagious because of the enormous number of Sarcoptes scabiei mites present in the hyperkeratotic skin. Undiagnosed and untreated crusted scabies cases can result in outbreaks of scabies in residential facilities and can also undermine the success of scabies mass drug administration programs.

Methods and principal findings

Crusted scabies became a formally notifiable disease in the Northern Territory of Australia in 2016. We conducted a 2-year prospective study of crusted scabies cases notified between March 2016 and February 2018, with subsequent follow up for 22 months. Demographics, clinical and laboratory data, treatment and outcomes were analysed, with cases classified by severity of disease.

Over the 2-year study period, 80 patients had 92 episodes of crusted scabies; 35 (38%) were Grade 1 crusted scabies, 36 (39%) Grade 2 and 21 (23%) Grade 3. Median age was 47 years, 47 (59%) were female, 76 (95%) Indigenous Australians and 57 (71%) from remote Indigenous communities. Half the patients were diabetic and 18 (23%) were on dialysis for end-stage kidney failure. Thirteen (16%) patients had no comorbidities, and these were more likely to have Grade 3 disease. Eosinophilia was present in 60% and high immunoglobulin E in 94%. Bacteremia occurred in 11 episodes resulting in one fatality with methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia. Two other deaths occurred during admission and 10 others died subsequent to discharge consequent to comorbidities. Treatment generally followed the recommended guidelines, with 3, 5 or 7 doses of oral ivermectin depending on the documented grade of crusted scabies, together with daily alternating topical scabicides and topical keratolytic cream. While response to this therapy was usually excellent, there were 33 episodes of recurrent crusted scabies with the majority attributed to new infection subsequent to return to a scabies-endemic community.

Conclusions

Crusted scabies can be successfully treated with aggressive guideline-based therapy, but high mortality remains from underlying comorbidities. Reinfection on return to community is common while scabies remains endemic.
Postpartum hemorrhage in Suriname: A national descriptive study of hospital births and an audit of case management
Authors: Kodan Lachmi R. , Verschueren Kim J. C. , Prüst Zita D. , Zuithoff Nicolaas P. A. , Rijken Marcus J. , Browne Joyce L. , Klipstein-Grobusch Kerstin , Bloemenkamp Kitty W. M. , Grunberg Antoon W.
Published: December 2020

Background

Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is the leading cause of direct maternal mortality globally and in Suriname. We aimed to study the prevalence, risk indicators, causes, and management of PPH to identify opportunities for PPH reduction.

Methods

A nationwide retrospective descriptive study of all hospital deliveries in Suriname in 2017 was performed. Logistic regression analysis was applied to identify risk indicators for PPH (≥ 500ml blood loss). Management of severe PPH (blood loss ≥1,000ml or ≥500ml with hypotension or at least three transfusions) was evaluated via a criteria-based audit using the national guideline.

Results

In 2017, the prevalence of PPH and severe PPH in Suriname was 9.2% (n = 808/8,747) and 2.5% (n = 220/8,747), respectively. PPH varied from 5.8% to 15.8% across the hospitals. Risk indicators associated with severe PPH included being of African descent (Maroon aOR 2.1[95%CI 1.3–3.3], Creole aOR 1.8[95%CI 1.1–3.0]), multiple pregnancy (aOR 3.4[95%CI 1.7–7.1]), delivery in Hospital D (aOR 2.4[95%CI 1.7–3.4]), cesarean section (aOR 3.9[95%CI 2.9–5.3]), stillbirth (aOR 6.4 [95%CI 3.4–12.2]), preterm birth (aOR 2.1[95%CI 1.3–3.2]), and macrosomia (aOR 2.8 [95%CI 1.5–5.0]). Uterine atony (56.7%, n = 102/180[missing 40]) and retained placenta (19.4%, n = 35/180[missing 40]), were the main causes of severe PPH. A criteria-based audit revealed that women with severe PPH received prophylactic oxytocin in 61.3% (n = 95/155[missing 65]), oxytocin treatment in 68.8% (n = 106/154[missing 66]), and tranexamic acid in 4.9% (n = 5/103[missing 117]).

Conclusions

PPH prevalence and risk indicators in Suriname were similar to international and regional reports. Inconsistent blood loss measurement, varied maternal and perinatal characteristics, and variable guideline adherence contributed to interhospital prevalence variation. PPH reduction in Suriname can be achieved through prevention by practicing active management of the third stage of labor in every birth and considering risk factors, early recognition by objective and consistent blood loss measurement, and prompt treatment by adequate administration of oxytocin and tranexamic acid according to national guidelines.
Comparative efficacy of selenate and selenium nanoparticles for improving growth, productivity, fruit quality, and postharvest longevity through modifying nutrition, metabolism, and gene expression in tomato; potential benefits and risk assessment
Authors: Neysanian Maryam , Iranbakhsh Alireza , Ahmadvand Rahim , Oraghi Ardebili Zahra , Ebadi Mostafa
Published: December 2020

This study attempted to address molecular, developmental, and physiological responses of tomato plants to foliar applications of selenium nanoparticles (nSe) at 0, 3, and 10 mgl-1 or corresponding doses of sodium selenate (BSe). The BSe/nSe treatment at 3 mgl-1 increased shoot and root biomass, while at 10 mgl-1 moderately reduced biomass accumulation. Foliar application of BSe/nSe, especially the latter, at the lower dose enhanced fruit production, and postharvest longevity, while at the higher dose induced moderate toxicity and restricted fruit production. In leaves, the BSe/nSe treatments transcriptionally upregulated miR172 (mean = 3.5-folds). The Se treatments stimulated the expression of the bZIP transcription factor (mean = 9.7-folds). Carotene isomerase (CRTISO) gene was transcriptionally induced in both leaves and fruits of the nSe-treated seedlings by an average of 5.5 folds. Both BSe or nSe at the higher concentration increased proline concentrations, H2O2 accumulation, and lipid peroxidation levels, suggesting oxidative stress and impaired membrane integrity. Both BSe or nSe treatments also led to the induction of enzymatic antioxidants (catalase and peroxidase), an increase in concentrations of ascorbate, non-protein thiols, and soluble phenols, as well as a rise in the activity of phenylalanine ammonia-lyase enzyme. Supplementation at 3 mgl-1 improved the concentration of mineral nutrients (Mg, Fe, and Zn) in fruits. The bioaccumulated Se contents in the nSe-treated plants were much higher than the corresponding concentration of selenate, implying a higher efficacy of the nanoform towards biofortification programs. Se at 10 mgl-1, especially in selenate form, reduced both size and density of pollen grains, indicating its potential toxicity at the higher doses. This study provides novel molecular and physiological insights into the nSe efficacy for improving plant productivity, fruit quality, and fruit post-harvest longevity.
Saline water and bovine biofertilizer chemically enriched on jackfruit seedlings var. soft
Authors: Mesquita Francisco de Oliveira , Cavalcante Lourival Ferreira , Ferreira Jean Télvio Andrade , Souto Antônio Gustavo de Luna , Fátima Reynaldo Teodoro de , Nascimento Ana Paula Pereira do
Published: December 2020

Water scarcity and water quality is a subject of constant debate around the world, with the accumulation of salts in water and on soils causing a negative impact on food production, man and herds, especially in the arid and semi-arid regions. The use of bovine manure biofertilizers that potentiate the use of brackish water, normally restricted in agriculture due to its salinity, has been suggested for seedling formation and crop production, including jackfruit plants. An experiment was carried out from October/2012 to February/2013, in a protected environment, at Agrarian Sciences Center, Federal University of Paraíba, Areia county, Paraíba State, Brazil, to evaluate the effects of saline water and bovine biofertilizer chemically enriched with gypsum, cow's milk and molasses. The experimental design was completely randomized, with five replications of a plant, in a factorial scheme 5 × 2, corresponding   at values of electrical conductivity of the water of 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 3.0 and 4.0 dS m-1 substrate with and without bovine biofertilizer. Measurements were made of substrate salinity, height of growth, stem diameter, length mean root, leaf area, leaf area ratio, and total dry mass (root, shoots and leaves). The biofertilizer enriched with cow's milk, sugar cane molasses and agricultural gypsum increased the salinity of the soil; however, it attenuated the negative effects of the salts during establishment of jackfruit seedlings, to 95 days after emergence. All the growth variables studied were higher for seedlings developed in substrate with bovine biofertilizer chemically enriched.
Emergence flow of weeds as the result of temperature and luminosity conditions in hilly areas
Authors: Zandoná Renan Ricardo , Agostinetto Dirceu , Ulguim André da Rosa , Campos Rogério Costa , Vargas Andrés Antonio Monge , Silva Jéssica Dias Gomes da
Published: December 2020

Levels of weed infestation can be inferred from climate information since every species requires specific conditions for its germination process. This study aimed to evaluate weed species and their emergence flow in hilly areas, when subjected to different environmental conditions of temperature and luminosity. Two experiments were carried out in a completely randomized design with four replications. In the first experiment, treatments used plastic films (no film; film just on top; partially closed film; and fully closed film), whereas the second experiment used black polyethylene covers (0; 35; 50; and 80%). Weed emergence in the area was monitored daily, until the establishment of the emergence flow. Soil temperature, solar radiation interception and soil moisture were also monitored. For the analysis of species subjected to every type and level of covers, phytosociological parameters and the emergence speed index were calculated. Data were submitted to analysis of covariance and, when they were significant, the Tukey test (p ≤ 0.05) was applied. A hierarchical cluster analysis was performed to relate factors and experimental levels to distribution intervals of climate covariates. Increase of 8.5°C in soil temperature favors the emergence of crabgrass, while reducing the emergence of alexander grass, morning glory, beggartick and sida. The main species that adapted to decrease in temperature and solar radiation are sida, alexander grass and crab grass. Besides, decrease in radiation increases the number of magnoliopsida species and enables all species to establish faster.