bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pandemia COVID-19 y compromiso laboral: relación dentro de una organización del sector eléctrico colombiano
Authors: Santiago-Torner Carlos , Rojas-Espinosa Sandra Rismillia
Published: November 2021

El objetivo de esta investigación, es analizar la relación y el impacto de la pandemia Covid19 sobre el compromiso de los colaboradores de una organización del sector eléctrico colombiano, a través de un diseño no experimental, transversal, correlacional/causal y con un enfoque cuantitativo. La muestra correspondió a 113 trabajadores vinculados a la organización analizada y la información se recolectó a través de una encuesta tipo web. Los resultados establecen una relación significativa entre los cambios en las condiciones laborales y diarias debidos a la Pandemia Covid19 como variable independiente, y el compromiso laboral como variable dependiente, de r=0.565. Asimismo, la autopercepción de compromiso laboral y de adaptación al nuevo contexto de trabajo en las personas encuestadas, asciende a más del 92% de una manera fuerte o muy fuerte. En este sentido, la compañía estudiada debería considerar estrategias para acotar la jornada laboral, ya que el 61,06% de los encuestados considera que su tiempo de trabajo se ha incrementado desde que lo está desempeñando de forma remota.
AppMatetics como apoyo para el aprendizaje de operaciones algebraicas en estudiantes universitarios
Authors: Salazar-Gómez Julio Fernando , Dolores-Ruíz Erika , Vázquez-Cruz Rafael , Tejeda-Córdoba Daniel
Published: November 2021

Este artículo tiene como finalidad evaluar el efecto de una aplicación para dispositivos móviles, desarrollada para el aprendizaje de las operaciones algebraicas en estudiantes universitarios. La investigación tiene un enfoque cuantitativo de tipo correlacional, con diseño experimental de pre- y post-prueba en dos grupos. El grupo experimental utilizó la aplicación AppMatetics, diseñada para dispositivos Android, durante tres semanas. La muestra estuvo conformada por 196 estudiantes de primer semestre, pertenecientes a una institución educativa mexicana, que fueron divididos en dos grupos mediante el método de emparejamiento. En la postprueba, el grupo experimental tuvo una calificación media de 3.87, mientras que el grupo control obtuvo una media de 2.97. El p fue de 0.034, menor de 0.05, lo cual indica que hubo una diferencia significativa en las calificaciones de los grupos experimental y control. Se concluye que los usuarios del software AppMatetics tuvieron un mejor rendimiento que aquellos que no lo usaron, lo cual refuerza la necesidad de incorporar los dispositivos móviles en el proceso formativo de los estudiantes, empleando aplicaciones especialmente diseñadas para ello.
Pengaruh Employee Stock Ownership Program, Total Asset Turnover dan Leverage Terhadap Return On Asset pada Perusahaan yang Terdaftar di Bursa Efek Indonesia
Authors: Yessyca Rosalina , Wadhan
Published: November 2021

This research uses a quantitative approach with associative type and uses multiple linear regression analysis method. The data source is obtained from secondary data in the form of annual financial reports obtained through the official website of the Indonesia Stock Exchange with a sample of 10 companies and using four reporting periods. The results of this study indicate that the results of calculations and statistical tests with linear regression method using SPSS produce an R square value of 0.504 or 50.4%, this indicates that simultaneously the independent variables (ESOP, TATO, Leverage) have an effect of 50.4% on dependent variable (ROA) and the rest is influenced by other factors not examined. And based on partial testing, each independent variable (ESOP, TATO, Leverage) has a significant effect on the dependent variable (ROA) seen from the t-count value (3.321; 3.874; 2.813) which is greater than the t table (2.030).
PENERAPAN METODE ACTIVITY BASED COSTING (ABC) DALAM PERHITUNGAN HARGA POKOK PRODUKSI (HPP) PADA GRIYA BATIK PODHEK DI KECAMATAN PROPPO KABUPATEN PAMEKASAN
Authors: Dwi Amitha Desy , Firmansyah Farid
Published: November 2021

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis penerapan metode Activity Based Costing (ABC) dalam perhitungan harga pokok produksi (HPP) di Griya Batik Podhek Kecamatan Proppo Kabupaten Pamekasan. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kuantitatif deskriptif. Jenis data yang digunakan yaitu data kualitatif dan kuantitatif. Untuk sumber data yang digunakan yaitu data primer dan data sekunder. Sedangkan metode pengumpulan data diperoleh dengan tiga metode yaitu metode wawancara semi struktur, metode dokumentasi dari proses produksi batik dan menggunakan metode observasi di griya batik podhek. Metode analisis diawali dengan menghitung harga pokok produksi menggunakan metode tradisional dan dilanjutkan dengan menggunakan metode Activity Based Costing (ABC). Hasil penelitian dihasilkan bahwa harga pokok produksi per lembar kain batik dengan metode tradisional sebesar Rp Rp1.819.598,- sedangkan apabila menggunakan metode Activity Based Costing (ABC) diperoleh HPP sebesar Rp Rp1.498.783,798,-. Dari kedua perhitungan tersebut, antara metode tradisional dan metode Activity Based Costing (ABC) memiliki selisih beda harga pokok produksi yang dihasilkan yaitu sebesar Rp320.814,202,-. Hasil harga pokok yang diperoleh dengan menggunakan dua perhitungan tersebut diketahui bahwa perhitungan HPP dengan metode Activity Based Costing (ABC) lebih murah dari pada menggunakan metode tradisional. Dengan diketahuinya perbedaan harga pokok produksi yang dihasilkan, maka diketahui pula laba sebenarnya yang diperoleh. Dengan harga pokok produksi dari hasil perhitungan metode ABC, maka hal ini akan berpengaruh pula terhadap harga jual yang ditawarkan dari satu lembar batik jenis premium produk dari Griya Batik Podhek Kecamatan Proppo Kabupaten Pamekasan.
Animais Venenosos em Território Português: Abordagem Clínica de Picadas e Mordeduras
Authors: Valdoleiros Sofia R. , Gonçalves Inês Correia , Silva Carolina , Guerra Diogo , Silva Lino André , Martínez-Freiría Fernando , Rato Fátima , Xará Sandra
Published: November 2021

Em território português, existem várias espécies autóctones de animais capazes de provocar envenenamento e doença clinicamente significativa, com potencial de gravidade. Das quatro espécies de serpentes com relevância clínica, as víboras (Vipera latastei e Vipera seoanei) são as mais preocupantes; podem causar doença grave e necessitam de abordagem hospitalar, monitorização e tratamento específico, incluindo soro antiveneno. As serpentes Malpolon monspessulanus e Macroprotodon brevis causam maioritariamente manifestações clínicas locais, sem tratamento específico. Apenas uma minoria das espécies de aranha presentes em Portugal possui quelíceras (apêndices bucais dos Chelicerata, em forma de tenaz ou gancho, que podem conter veneno ou encontrar-se ligados às glândulas venenosas, usados para predação ou captura de alimentos) suficientemente compridas para perfurar a pele humana, mas as picadas de Latrodectus tredecimguttatus e Loxosceles rufescens podem implicar tratamento diferenciado em ambiente hospitalar, com necessidade de vigilância ativa. O tratamento da picada das centopeias Scolopendra cingulata e Scolopendra oraniensis é sintomático. A única espécie de escorpião presente em território nacional, Buthus ibericus, causa geralmente sintomas locais com dor intensa; o tratamento habitualmente baseia-se apenas na administração de analgesia. Os insetos da ordem Hymenoptera, como as abelhas e vespas, possuem capacidade de libertar veneno através de picadas; a maior parte dos indivíduos apresenta apenas reações inflamatórias locais ou regionais, para as quais a aplicação de medidas sintomáticas é suficiente, mas indivíduos que apresentem hipersensibilidade ao veneno podem desenvolver reações anafiláticas. Na costa portuguesa e em águas pouco profundas, encontram-se várias espécies marinhas venenosas para os humanos, como Echiichthys vipera (peixe-aranha comum), Dasyatis pastinaca, Taeniura grabata e Myliobatis aquila (ratões), Scorpaena scrofa (rascasso-vermelho), Pelagia noctiluca, Chrysaora hysoscella e Physalia physalis (cnidários) e Hermodice carunculata (verme-do-fogo), cujas picadas necessitam apenas de tratamento sintomático. O contacto com as larvas ou cerdas (estruturas quitinosas com funções locomotoras ou tácteis) de Thaumetopoea pityocampa (lagarta-do-pinheiro) pode provocar reações cutâneas, oculares e, raramente, respiratórias; a sua abordagem também é sintomática.
The Impact of COVID-19 in Older People in Portugal: Results from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement (SHARE)
Authors: Novais Filipa , Cordeiro Catarina , Câmara Pestana Pedro , Côrte-Real Beatriz , Reynolds Sousa Teresa , Delerue Matos Alice , Telles-Correia Diogo
Published: November 2021

Introduction: In March 2020, the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 as a pandemic, and Portugal reported its initial cases. In this study, we aimed to determine the impact of COVID-19 on Portuguese individuals aged over 60 years old.Material and Methods: We performed a cross-sectional study using data from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE 8: COVID-19 Survey). We selected a sample of 1080 noninstitutional Portuguese individuals aged ≥ 60 years.Results: The study sample consisted of 605 (56%) women and 475 (44%) men, with a mean age of 70 ± 9.1 years. In total, 80% of the participants experienced higher levels of anxiety, 73% felt more depressed and 30% experienced additional sleep problems comparedto the period before the pandemic. Interestingly, there were no statistically significant differences between the sexes or the two selected age groups (60 - 74 and over 75 years old) regarding the incidence of these changes. Only 23%, of those that were interviewed maintained their walking routines. In addition, only 8% of the participants continued visiting family members as frequently as before. While 8% of the participants were refused some form of medical treatment, 56% claimed that they experienced healthcare delays. However,only 15% of the participants reported that their health status worsened during the pandemic.Discussion: The pandemic has had a significant impact on Portuguese individuals aged ≥ 60 years; which is in agreement with the findings of previous international studies. It changed the participants’ routines and increased their anxiety and depression levels. Despite the deterioration of healthcare services, most participants did not experience worsening of their health status.Conclusion: In conclusion, a COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on the elderly population, particularly regarding their mental health.
Malaria Vector Control and the Electronic Malaria Surveillance Information System (E-SISMAL) in Bangka Barat Regency Indonesia
Authors: Asmiani Asmiani , Windusari Yuanita , Hasyim Hamzah
Published: November 2021

Introduction: Until the end of 2020, West Bangka Regency was the only one that has not been certified for malaria elimination, so that it has an impact on achieving malaria elimination at the provincial level of Bangka Belitung. The West Bangka Regency's Electronic Malaria Surveillance Information System (E-SISMAL) showed eight indigenous malaria cases and no malaria vector control reports in 2020. The indigenous cases in West Bangka Regency have prevented malaria elimination. This study aims to evaluate malaria vector control to help eliminate malaria. Methods: This research was a qualitative evaluation study with selected informants. E-SISMAL in West Bangka Regency was studied and was analysed with Nvivo 12 Plus for Windows. The variables studied were context, input, process, and product. Focus groups, in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and photovoice were used to collect data. Results and Discussion: The area's topography, miner's behaviour, lack of manual vector reporting, and extensive ex-mining pits were discussed. Each evaluation variable was constrained by the process (supporting data collection and sub-variables) and product (data coverage of malaria vector control in E-SISMAL). Conclusion: It can be concluded that each evaluation variable constrains malaria vector control in West Bangka Regency.
Health Risks Assessment of Heavy Metal from Consumption of Oreochromis Mossambicus and Oreochromis Niloticus in Denpasar, Bali
Authors: Dwipayanti Ni Made Utami , Dewi I Gst. Ayu Kunti Sri Panca , Palgunadi Ni Putu Gita Saraswati , Rofida Muliana , Sutiari Ni Ketut , Purnama I Gede Herry
Published: November 2021

Introduction: Heavy metals in the environment can accumulate in organisms through the food chain process. Previous studies recorded heavy metal concentrations above threshold limits value in Badung river, which warrants monitoring adverse health outcomes due to consuming fish from this river. This research aimed to estimate the potential risk from heavy metals exposure, namely Pb, Cd, Cu, and Cr, due to fish consumption. Methods: Fish samples were limited to Oreochromis Mossambicus and Oreochromis niloticus, commonly known as tilapia. Twenty samples of composite fish muscles were collected from three fishing sites. Subsequently, the heavy metals present in the samples were quantified using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS), and health risks were assessed by calculating estimated daily intake (EDI) and target hazard quotient (THQ) for both carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks. Results and Discussion: The average concentrations of Pb in Oreochromis Mossambicus (6.35±3.21 mg/kg) and Oreochromis niloticus (6.09±3.07 mg/kg) exceed the threshold limits value for fish products, but other heavy metals remain below. The average EDI from consuming Oreochromis Mossambicus with Pb is 0.0025-0.0026 mg/kg/days; Cu is 0.0037- 0.0062 mg/kg/day; Cr is 0.0001 mg/kg/day. EDI from consuming Oreochromis niloticus with Pb is 0.0015-0.0025 mg/kg/day; and 0.00 mg/kg/day for Cu and Cr. The THQ calculation for carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic health risks showed no health risk from consuming the fish from the Badung River. Conclusion: The study concludes that the consumption of Oreochromis Mossambicus and Oreochromis niloticus from the Badung River was generally safe from potential health risks.
PENGARUH PEMBENTUKAN HOLDING COMPANY BUMN PADA SEKTOR KEUANGAN TERHADAP PEMBERDAYAAN USAHA MIKRO, KECIL, DAN MENENGAH
Authors:   Universitas Islam Indonesia, Syach Fa'iq
Published: November 2021

Badan Usaha Milik Negara ("BUMN") di Indonesia merupakan salah satu penopang perekonomian negara. Penting bagi pemerintah untuk selalu mengoptimalkan kinerja BUMN di Indonesia untuk meningkatkan perekonomian negara, salah satunya melalui restrukturisasi BUMN dengan membentuk holding company. Di penghujung tahun 2020, pemerintah melalui Menteri BUMN menunjukkan antusiasnya dengan memaparkan rencana holding BUMN di bidang keuangan antara PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia Tbk, PT Pegadaian (Persero), dan PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (Persero). Tujuan utama dari rencana holding company adalah untuk membangun ekosistem bagi bisnis ultra-mikro sehingga layanan keuangan formal dapat tercapai. Mengingat pentingnya keberadaan UMK-M di Indonesia untuk menunjang perekonomian negara, maka perlu dikaji secara mendalam pengaruh rencana perusahaan holding company BUMN di bidang keuangan terhadap pemberdayaan UMK-M.
PEMANFAATAN PUPUK ORGANIK DAN HIDROGEL UNTUK MENDUKUNG PERTUMBUHAN MIMBA DI SUMBAWA, NUSA TENGGARA BARAT (Hydrogel and organic fertilizer utilization to support Neem growth in Sumbawa, West Nusa Tenggara Province)
Authors:   Balai Penelitian dan Pengembangan Teknologi Hasil Hutan Bukan Kayu, Krisnawati Krisnawati , Apriliani Dwi Rahayu Anita ,   Balai Penelitian dan Pengembangan Teknologi Hasil Hutan Bukan Kayu, Setiawan Ogi
Published: November 2021

Mimba (Azadirachta indica A. Juss.) merupakan salah satu jenis yang dapat dikembangkan dalam rangka rehabilitasi lahan kritis di daerah kering. Lahan kritis di daerah kering pada umumnya mempunyai faktor pembatas rendahnya unsur hara dan sumberdaya air. Oleh sebab itu diperlukan upaya peningkatan daya dukung lahan untuk pertumbuhan mimba, yaitu dengan pemanfaatan pupuk organik dan hidrogel. Penelitian ini bertujuan mengetahui pengaruh pemanfaatan pupuk organik dan hidrogel dalam mendukung pertumbuhan mimba. Rancangan penelitian yang digunakan adalah rancangan acak kelompok dengan tiga ulangan. Perlakuan yang diterapkan adalah pupuk organik+hidrogel (PH), pupuk organik (P), hidrogel (H) dan kontrol/tanpa pupuk organik dan hidrogel (K). Pemanfaatan pupuk organik atau dikombinasikan dengan hidrogel mampu meningkatkan pertumbuhan dan kemampuan hidup mimba. Pertumbuhan diameter dan tinggi mampu ditingkatkan berturut-turut sampai dengan 1,2 kali dan 1,3 kali perlakuan kontrol, sedangkan kemampuan hidup mencapai lebih dari 70%. Peningkatan pertumbuhan dan kemampuan hidup ini didukung oleh peningkatan kualitas tanah sebagai dampak pemanfaatan pupuk organik dan hidrogel yaitu berupa peningkatan unsur hara makro (N, P dan K), C-organik, KTK, mikroorganisme dan kadar lengas tanah.
Sustainability-Based Life Cycle Analysis of Biomethane as a Transportation Fuel Compared to Diesel and Natural Gas in Arequipa
Authors: Alvarez-Huamani Milagros , Paredes-Zavala Joshelyn , Davila-del-Carpio Gonzalo
Published: November 2021

The Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) was used to assess the impact of biomethane plant of the “La Católica” in Pedregal-Majes-Arequipa farm, fed with cow manure and holding a production of 60 Nm3/day of purified biogas. Life cycle inventory, impact assessment and interpretation were performed. The functional unit established was 1 MJ of energy produced; the study was modeled with SimaPro software, Ecoinvent Database and ReCiPe Midpoint (H) impact assessment methodology, according to the impact categories of climate change and fossil resource depletion. The impact analysis was limited to the Well to Tank (WTT) approach, which involves feedstock transport, substrate mixed, anaerobic digestion, biogas purification, storage and injection of the fuel into transport vehicles. The digestion process generated the highest amount of CO2 emissions (1.79E-02 kg CO2 eq/MJ-biomethane) and the highest depletion of fossil resources (6.58E-03 kg oil eq/MJ-biomethane), compared to the other fuel production, due to energy consumption and transport infrastructure. Biomethane was then compared to fossil fuels, resulting in natural gas generating the least amount of CO2 emissions, followed by diesel and finally biomethane. For the fossil resource depletion category, biomethane presented the lowest amount of fossil fuel consumption (1.37E-02 kg oil eq/MJ-biomethane), followed by natural gas and diesel.
Dietary Exposure and Risk Assessment of Aflatoxin M1 for Children Aged 1 to 9 Years Old in Serbia
Authors: Milićević Dragan R , Milešević Jelena , Gurinovic Mirjana , Janković Saša , Đinović Jasna , Zekovic Milica , Glibetic Maria
Published: November 2021

The present study was conducted to estimate the exposure and risk characterization of the children population of Serbia to Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) from milk and milk-based food. A total of 3404 samples comprising of milk and different milk-based food samples were collected from various regions of Serbia from 2017 to 2019. Evaluation of the AFM1 exposure was carried out using the deterministic method, whereas risk characterization was evaluated with the calculation of the Margin of Exposure (MOE) and the risk of Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC). Detection rates for AFM1 in milk and milk-based food samples ranged between 2% and 79%, with the highest incidence (79%) and mean level (22.34  0,018 ng kg-1) of AFM1 was detected in pasteurized and UHT milk. According to the three consumption estimates, the values of EDI were higher for toddlers as compared with children. Children aged 1–3 years had the highest risk of exposure to AFM1 in milk, with an estimated daily intake of 0.164 and 0.193 ng kg-1 bw day-1 using a lower bound (LB) and the upper bound (UB) exposure scenarios, respectively. Such difference could result from the higher consumption versus weight. Based on the EDI found in this study, the risk of AFM1 due to consumption of milk and milk-based food was low since MOE values obtained were 10000. In addition, the risk of HCC cases/year/105 individuals of different age groups showed that the value of HCC using potency estimates of 0.0017 (mean) was maximum (0.00034) in the age group 1–3 years which indicates no health risk for the evaluated groups. The present study revealed the importance of controlling and preventing AFM1 contamination in milk through continuous monitoring and regular inspection to reduce the risk of AFM1 exposure, especially in children.
Equations of Electrodynamics
Authors: Gorev Pavel
Published: November 2021

The equations of electrodynamics are presented, it is shown that plane and spherical electromagnetic waves are their solutions, while the spherical wave propagates only outward. Fields of uniformly moving charges are also solutions of equations. The question of finding a universal form of equations admitting a solution in the form of a field of an arbitrarily moving charge remains open. The question is raised about the existence of a two-parameter group of transformations of electromagnetic fields along with the well-known one-parameter group. The equation of motion of a charged particle in an electromagnetic field is considered without simplifying approximations. The principle of operation of an unconventional alternator in a constant electric field and a corresponding engine, as well as new types of generators of direct and impulse current, are described.
Differential Spatial Distribution of TSPO or Amino Acid PET Signal and MRI Contrast Enhancement in Gliomas
Authors: Kaiser Lena , Holzgreve Adrien , Quach Stefanie , Ingrisch Michael , Unterrainer Marcus , Dekorsy Franziska J , Lindner Simon , Brosch-Lenz Julia , Delker Astrid , Böning Guido , Brendel Matthias , Rupprecht Rainer , von Baumgarten Louisa , Tonn Joerg C , Bartenstein Peter , Ziegler Sibylle , Albert Nathalie L
Published: November 2021

In this study dual PET and contrast enhanced MRI were combined to investigate their correlation per voxel in patients at initial diagnosis with suspected glioblastoma. Correlation with contrast enhancement (CE) as an indicator of BBB leakage was further used to evaluate whether PET signal is likely caused by BBB disruption alone, or rather attributable to specific binding after BBB passage. PET images with [18F]GE180 and the amino acid [18F]FET were acquired and normalized to healthy background (TBR). Contrast enhanced images were normalized voxel by voxel with the pre-contrast T1-weighted MRI to generate relative CE values (rCE). Voxel-wise analysis revealed a high PET signal even within the sub-volumes without detectable CE. No to moderate correlation of rCE with TBR voxel-values and a small overlap as well as a larger distance of the hotspots delineated in rCE and TBR-PET images were detected. In contrast, voxel-wise correlation between both PET modalities was strong for most patients and hotspots showed a moderate overlap and distance. The high PET signal in tumor sub-volumes without CE observed in voxel-wise analysis as well as the discordant hotspots emphasize the specificity of the PET signals and the relevance of combined differential information from dual PET and MRI images.
CORRUPTION RISKMANAGEMENT IN THECUSTOMS BODIES OF THE EAEU
Authors: Brovka G. , Nazarchuk A.
Published: November 2021

The article deals with the phenomenon of corruption, its essence, causes and consequences. Attention is paid to corruption in Customs bodies and its features. The comparative economic analysis of corruption backgrounds in the Customs bodies of the EAEU is carried out. Foreign anticorruption instruments are reported. The ways of enhancing corruption counteraction in Customs bodies are defined.
Experimental Investigation on the Initiation of Hydraulic Fractures from a Simulated Wellbore in Laminated Shale
Authors: Liu Yang , Chen Congrui , Ma Tianshou , Zhu Gongsheng , Peng Nian , Zhang Xi
Published: November 2021

Understanding the formation mechanisms of complex fracture networks is vitally important for hydraulic fracturing operations in shale formation. For this purpose, a hydraulic fracturing experiment under a core-plunger scale is conducted to investigate the impact of the bedding plane angle, borehole size, and injection rate on fracture initiation behaviors of laminated shale rock. The results on rock properties demonstrate that the anisotropic characteristics of shale rock are reflected not only in elastic modulus but also in tensile strength. The results of fracturing experiments show that the bedding plane dip angle and borehole size have significant effects on fracture initiation behaviors, in that fracture initiation pressure (FIP) decreases with the increase of those two factors. The impact of injection rate, by contrast, has no obvious variety regulation. The above data is further used to validate our previously proposed fully anisotropic FIP model, which shows better agreement with experimental results than those using other models under various parameter combinations. Finally, a postfracturing analysis is performed to identify the fracture growth patterns and the microstructures on the fracture surfaces. The results show that the hydraulic fractures (HFs) always grow along mechanically favorable directions, and the potential interaction between HFs and bedding planes mainly manifests as fracture arrest. Meanwhile, the roughness of fracture surfaces is physically different from each other, which in turn results in the difficulties of fluid flow and proppant migration. The findings of this study can help for a better understanding of the fracture initiation behavior of laminated shale rock and the corresponding fracture morphology.
Development and Evaluation of a New Questionnaire to Assess Social Cognitive Factors of Self-Management in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Psychometric Study
Authors: Mirzaei Hamed , Siavash Mansour , Shahnazi Hossein , Eslami Ahmad Ali
Published: November 2021

Background
Self-care behaviors are essential in controlling blood sugar and preventing mortality and complications of diabetes. The evidence suggests that social cognitive factors play crucial role in adopting self-care behaviors ..
Objectives
this study aimed to develop and examine the psychometric properties of the Diabetes Self-Management Questionnaire based on the social cognitive theory (DSMQ-SCT).
Methods
The present methodological cross-sectional study investigated 460 patients with T2DM referred to Isfahan Endocrine and Metabolism Research Centre, Isfahan, Iran using the convenience sampling method. We assessed the reliability (internal consistency), content validity, convergent validity and construct validity. Construct validity was evaluated using exploratory factor analysis (calibration sample=230) and confirmatory factor analysis (validation sample= 230).
Results
In the EFA with the varimax rotation, we extracted four factors that could explain 65.9% of the total variance of the DSMQ-SCT scale. The CFA exhibited a satisfactory fit level for the four-factor structure extracted from the EFA with the following measures. CFI: .971, IFI: .971, NFI: .942, TLI: .966, RMSEA: .046).Internal consistency was good (Cronbach’s alpha coefficient for the whole scale: 0.88; the subscales: 0.85 to 0.92). The convergent validity showed significant negative correlations between DSMQ-SCT subscales and HbA1c.
Conclusion
The DSMQ-SCT is a valid and reliable instrument to assess social cognitive factors associated with self-management behaviors in patients with T2DM. Therefore, this instrument can be used in both future research and clinical practices.
Fn14 Exacerbates Acute Lung Injury by Activating the NLRP3 Inflammasome in Mice
Authors: Guan Xin-Xin , Yang Hui-Hui , Zhong Wen-Jing , Duan Jia-Xi , Zhang Chen-Yu , Jiang Hui-Ling , Xiang Yang , Zhou Yong , Guan Cha-Xiang
Published: November 2021

Background: Uncontrolled inflammation is an important factor in the occurrence and development of acute lung injury (ALI). Fibroblast growth factor-inducible 14 (Fn14) takes part in the pathological process of a variety of inflammatory diseases. However, the role of Fn14 in ALI has not yet been elucidated. Methods: C57BL/6J mice were used in this study. ALI model was induced by intratracheal injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 5 mg/kg). The effects of Fn14 receptor blocker ATA (20 mg/kg) on lung injury, inflammatory cell infiltration, inflammatory factor secretion, and oxidative stress in mice were observed. The activation of NLRP3 inflammasome was detected by qPCR, Western blot, and ELISA. Prophylactic or therapeutic ATA was administered to observe its effect on the survival rate of ALI mice. In vitro, primary mouse peritoneal macrophages were used to activate the NLRP3 inflammasome by LPS or LPS+ATP. Fn14 was activated by recombinant TWEAK, or knockdown by lentivirus, and the effects on NLRP3 inflammasome activation was detected.Results: We found that ATA significantly downregulated the expression of Fn14 in the lungs and improved the survival rate of mice receiving a lethal dose of LPS. ATA also attenuated lung tissue damage by decreasing the infiltration of macrophages and neutrophils, reducing inflammation, and suppressing oxidative stress. Interestingly, we found that ATA strongly inhibited the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome in the lungs of ALI mice. Furthermore, in vitro, exogenous TWEAK, a natural ligand of Fn14, enhanced the levels of NLRP3 and Caspase-1 p10 and the maturation and secretion of IL-1β in the primary murine macrophages, eventually leading to the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome. In addition, the expression of Fn14, NLRP3, and Caspase-1 p10 and the production of IL-1β were effectively blocked by Fn14 shRNA in macrophages. In mechanism, the activation of Fn14 promoted the production of reactive oxygen species in activated macrophages. Conclusion：Our study first reports that the activation of Fn14 aggravates ALI by amplifying the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome. Therefore, blocking Fn14 may be a potential way to treat ALI.
A holistic framework for reshaping urban energy infrastructure in Global South cities, a case study of the Greater Cairo Region, Egypt
Authors: Khalifa Yesmeen , George Sharon , Catney Philip
Published: November 2021

Key Messages- Cities are complex systems that need integrated approaches to understand their characteristics and to identify challenges and opportunities for sustainable development.- Context-based and tailored solutions are required for achieving SDGs and developing circular flows. This is particularly important in the Global South.- Integrated and cross-sectoral planning and collaboration are necessary to improve the development of sustainable strategies and interventions to reduce trade-offs. Areas like the Greater Cairo Region in Egypt demonstrate the complexities of action across formal/informal sectors of waste management.
Ripple Effects Mapping: Capturing the Wider Impacts of Systems Change Efforts in Public Health
Authors: Nobles James , Wheeler Jessica , Dunleavy-Harris Kirsty , Holmes Richard , Inman-Ward Alan , Potts Alexandra , Hall Jennifer , Redwood Sabi , Jago Russell , Foster Charlie
Published: November 2021

Background: Systems approaches are currently being advocated and implemented to address complex challenges in Public Health. These approaches work by bringing multi-sectoral stakeholders together to develop a collective understanding of the system, and then to identify places where they can leverage change across the system. Systems approaches are unpredictable, where cause-and-effect cannot always be disentangled, and unintended consequences – positive and negative – frequently arise. Evaluating such approaches is difficult and new methods are warranted.
Methods: Ripple Effects Mapping (REM) is a qualitative method which can capture the wider impacts, and adaptive nature, of a systems approach. Using a case study example from the evaluation of a physical activity systems approach in Gloucestershire, we: a) introduce the adapted REM method; b) describe how REM was applied in the example; c) explain how REM outputs were analysed; d) provide examples of how REM outputs were used; and e) describe the strengths, limitations, and future uses of REM based on our reflections.
Results: Ripple Effects Mapping is a participatory method that requires the active input of programme stakeholders in data gathering workshops. It produces visual outputs (i.e., maps) of the programmes activities and impacts, which are mapped along a timeline to understand the temporal dimension of systems change efforts. The REM outputs from our example were created over several iterations, with data collected every 3-4 months, to build a picture of activities and impacts that have continued or ceased. Workshops took place both in person and online. An inductive content analysis was undertaken to describe and quantify the patterns within the REM outputs. Detailed guidance related to the preparation, delivery, and analysis of REM are included in this paper.
Conclusion: REM may help to advance our understanding and evaluation of complex systems approaches, especially within the field of Public Health. We therefore invite other researchers, practitioners and policymakers to use REM and to continuously evolve the method to enhance its application and practical utility.
TNF-α Impairs Pericyte-Mediated Cerebral Microcirculation via the NF-κB/iNOS Axis After Experimental Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Zheng Shaorui , Wang Cheng , Lin Long , Mu Shuwen , Liu Haibing , Hu Xiaofang , Chen Xiangrong , Wang Shousen
Published: November 2021

Background
Secondary structural and functional abnormalities of the neurovascular unit are important pathological mechanisms following traumatic brain injury (TBI). The tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α)/nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway regulates neuroinflammation and oxidative damage, which may act as triggers for pathological processes after TBI. However, the role of TNF-α/NF-κB in pericyte-mediated cerebral microcirculation are currently unknown.
Methods
We assessed the activity and mechanisms of the TNF-α/NF-κB signaling axis on pericyte-mediated microcirculation using the mouse controlled cortical impact model and BV2 cells. Immunofluorescent staining and western blot analysis were used to detect activation of the TNF-α/NF-κB signaling pathway and the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) to evaluate the effects of the TNF-α specific inhibitor infliximab (IFX). Modified neurological severity scores, Garcia test, Nissl staining, and TUNEL staining were employed to determine the neuroprotective effects of IFX supplementation. The relative blood flow values in the capillary areas surrounding the impinging lesion were observed by Laser speckle contrast imaging. The impact of IFX on pericyte markers was assessed to evaluate whether pericyte damage was dependent on the TNF-α/NF-κB/iNOS axis to gain further insight into the mechanisms underlying the development of the microcirculation disturbance after TBI.
Results
Microglia were activated after TBI, and the expression of NF-κB, iNOS, a disintegrin and metalloproteinase 17, inflammatory factors, and free radicals increased around the injury areas. After lipopolysaccharide treatment, the expression of TNF-α and downstream NF-κB/iNOS in BV2 cells was significantly upregulated. Pharmacological inhibition of TNF-α via IFX significantly reduced NF-κB p65 phosphorylation and nuclear translocation and downregulated iNOS expression. Meanwhile, we found that specific inhibition of TNF-α reversed pericyte marker loss, and improved pericyte function and cerebral microcirculation perfusion after TBI, which could attenuate inflammation and oxidative damage, reduce neuronal cell damage and apoptosis, and play a neuroprotective role.
Conclusion
The results of this study suggested that microglia activated and released TNF-α after TBI, which promoted neuroinflammation and oxidative stress by activating downstream NF-κB/iNOS signals, and this led to pericyte-mediated disturbance of the cerebral microcirculation, which may be one of the vital mechanisms of secondary injury in TBI.
Protective Mechanism of Qi-Dan-Dihuang Decoction in Diabetic Kidney Disease Based on Network pharmacology
Authors: Kuang Liuyan , You Yanting , Qi Jieying , Zhou Xinghong , Chen Jieyu , Ji Shuai , Wang Min , Cheng Jingru , Kwan Hiu Yee , Jiang Pingping , Sun Xiaomin , Luo Ren , Zhao Xiaoshan
Published: November 2021

Background: Qi-Dan-Dihuang Decoction (QDD) has been used for treating diabetic kidney disease (DKD), but the mechanisms are poorly understood. The aim of this study is to reveal the therapeutic effects and the mechanism of QDD in ameliorating DKD by network pharmacology, in vivo, and in vitro studies.Methods: The effect of QDD on body weight, fast blood glucose, oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), 24 h urinary protein (24hU-Pro), serum creatinine (Scr), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and pathological evaluation in kidney were investigated in vivo using C57BLKS/J db/db mice. The main active compounds of QDD, compound-disease interaction targets, and related processes and pathways were discerned by network pharmacology analysis through Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database (TCMSP) and TCM Database@Taiwan. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network were established through STRING database. GO and KEGG pathway were used for analysis processes and pathways. Then Western blot was used to verified the predicted results. Finally, cell viability, wound healing and mainly pathway protein expression were detected in vitro using renal tubular epithelial cells HK-2 and NRK-52E cells.Results: Although QDD treatment showed no significant difference in FBG and AUC of OGTT, but had significant reduction in Scr level in C57BLKS/J db/db mice. Histopathologic results showed that QDD ameliorated the expansion of mesangial area, thickened membranes of Bowman’s capsules and basement membrane of glomerular capillaries, renal tubular epithelial cells vacuolar degeneration and reversed the glomerular and tubulointerstitial in C57BLKS/J db/db mice. For network pharmacology analysis of QDD, 143 active compounds related to 274 possible targets in QDD obtained and 117 compound-disease interaction targets were screened out combining with Genecards database. 18 key targets was excavated through network topological analysis. GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis showed that compound-disease interaction targets were significantly enriched in processes and pathways that are closely related to DKD. Western blot results showed that QDD significantly attenuated EMT-related proteins, p-NF-κb, IL-1β, IL-18, p-p38MAPK/p38MAPK, p-AKT/AKT, and p-mTOR/ mTOR protein expressions. Treatment with QDD could alleviate cell viability damaged, EMT process, p-NF-κb, IL-1β, IL-18, p-p38MAPK/p38MAPK, p-AKT/AKT and p-mTOR/ mTOR protein expressions by high D-gulcose.Conclusions: This study provides convincing evidence suggest that QDD protects renal fibrosis of DKD, by regulating EMT in RTECs and inflammatory response through p38MAPK and AKT/mTOR signaling pathways.
A Method for Mill Monitoring Based on Inter-insert Periodic Correlation Using Singular Value Decomposition (SVD)
Authors: ZHU Xiaowen , Girardin François , Antoni Jérôme
Published: November 2021

This paper introduces a method to monitor the wear of end milling tools in real-time production based on inter-insert periodic correlation. The aim is to detect abnormal behavior of the cutter as early as possible to prevent severe tool failure and subsequent losses. The approach takes advantage of the angular domain to segment the signal in periodic cycles of the same angular duration, which are then amenable to correlation analysis. An ordered separability index with latent correlation characteristics is proposed to assess the current operating state of the tool. A series of simulations with existing experimental data are run to test the feasibility of the proposed index and to calculate the corresponding confidence interval. This approach has a high potential to form an efficient tool condition monitoring system. Compared to the traditional teach-in method, this method is more independent of the cutting conditions (changes of velocity or direction) and has no requirement for a trial cut, making the method useful for small batch production and can reduce the rate of false alarms.
Modelling Spatial Pattern of Anemia and Malnutrition Co-occurrence Among Under-five Children in Ethiopia: A Bayesian Geostatistical Approach
Authors: Egbon Osafu Augustine , Balechew Asrat Mekonnen , Bogoni Mariella Ananias
Published: November 2021

Background: Anemia and Malnutrition among under-five children are one of the major challenges to public health in Ethiopia. While anemia is responsible for delayed child development and growth, malnutrition is associated with the high infant mortality rate in Ethiopia. Method: This study aims to determine the socioeconomic, demographic, and geographical risk factors that simultaneously increase the co-occurrence of anemia and malnutrition among under-five children in Ethiopia. Geostatistical data was obtained from the Ethiopia Demographic and Health Survey for 2011 and 2016. A Bayesian hierarchical linear mixed model was adopted using the stochastic partial differential equation to estimate the spatial pattern of the co-occurrence of anemia and malnutrition in Ethiopia. Result: The findings revealed that gender, maternal education, number of children under five, birth order, preceding birth, contraceptive use, vaccination, marital status, birth weight, diarrhea, and fever are significant risk factors of the co-occurrence of anemia and malnutrition. The findings also reveal the vulnerability of under-five children to the co-occurrence of anemia and malnutrition within the first twenty months after birth and young maternal age. Regarding the geographical aspect, this study found a geographical disparity in the prevalence of anemia and malnutrition in Ethiopia. The highest burden of the co-occurrence of anemia and malnutrition lies in the Northern Gambela, Western Oromia, Northeast Benishangul-gumuz, Central and Northern Amhara, Southern Afar, and parts of Somali. Conclusion: These findings could be utilized by policymakers and intervention programs to simultaneously tackle and contain the prevalence of both anemia and malnutrition. For cost-effective intervention, policies and programs that improve individual-level risk factors of parents and caregivers are a more promising approach to tackle high prevalent regions than the ones on the children and should be considered as an utmost priority in the country.
Plastome Phylogenomics and Historical Biogeography of Aquatic Plant Genus Hydrocharis (Hydrocharitaceae)
Authors: Li Zhi-Zhong , Lehtonen Samuli , Gichira Andrew W. , Martins Karina , Andrey Efremov , Wang Qing-Feng , Chen Jin-Ming
Published: November 2021

Background
Hydrocharis L. and Limnobium Rich. are small aquatic genera, including three and two species, respectively. The taxonomic status, phylogenetic relationships and biogeographical history of these genera have remained unclear, owing to the lack of Central African endemic H. chevalieri from all previous studies. We sequenced and assembled plastomes of all three Hydrocharis species and Limnobium laevigatum to explore the phylogenetic and biogeographical history of these aquatic plants.
Results
All four newly generated plastomes were conserved in genome structure, gene content, and gene order. However, they differed in size, the number of repeat sequences, and inverted repeat borders. Our phylogenomic analyses recovered non-monophyletic Hydrocharis. African species H. chevalieri was fully supported as sister to the rest of the species, and L. laevigatum was nested in Hydrocharis as a sister to H. dubia. Hydrocharis-Limnobium initially diverged from the remaining genera at ca. 53.3 Ma, then began to diversify at ca. 30.9 Ma. The biogeographic analysis suggested that Hydrocharis probably originated in Europe and Central Africa.
Conclusion
Based on the phylogenetic results, morphological similarity and small size of the genera, the most reasonable taxonomic solution to the non-monophyly of Hydrocharis is to treat Limnobium as its synonym. The African endemic H. chevalieri is fully supported as a sister to the remaining species. Hydrocharis mainly diversified in the Miocene, during which rapid climate change may have contributed to the speciation and extinctions. The American species of former Limnobium probably dispersed to America through the Bering Land Bridge during the Miocene.
Adaptive Fixed-time Control for Nonlinear Systems Against Time-varying Actuator Faults
Authors: Mei Yu , Wang Jing , Park Ju H. , Shi Kaibo , Shen Hao
Published: November 2021

The adaptive fixed-time control problem for nonlinear systems with time-varying actuator faults is investigated in this paper. A novel adaptive fixed-time controller is designed via combining the Lyapunov stability theory with the backstepping method. It can be adapted to both system uncertainties and unknown actuator faults. Compared with the existing fault-tolerant control schemes subject to actuator faults, the adaptive fixed-time neural networks control scheme can make sure that the tracking error is convergent in a small neighborhood of the origin within a fixed-time interval, and it does not depend on the original states of the system and actuator faults. In light of the control scheme proposed in this paper, the fixed-time stability of the closed-loop system can be guaranteed by theoretical analysis, and a numerical example is provided to verify the effectiveness of obtained theoretical results.
Trends in the Occurrence and Treatment Outcomes of Tuberculosis in North Shewa Zone of Ethiopia: A 5-Year Retrospective Analysis of Cases at Tarmaber District Health Centers
Authors: Teklesilassia Seble , Gelana Tegenu , Alelign Tilahun
Published: November 2021

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) remain a key global public health concern in Ethiopia. The study aimed at assessing prevalence and treatment outcomes of tuberculosis in the past five years. Methods: A retrospective data were collected from TB registry unit at Debre-Sina and Aremanya health centers from 2014-2018. A total of 221 TB patients who were registered and attended the direct observed treatment (DOTs) service in the health centers included in the study. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.Results: Among 221 TB patients, the prevalence of pulmonary TB was 175 (79.2%) of which 35.7% were smear positive, 43.4% were smear negative, 19.9% were with extra pulmonary TB and 0.9% were multidrug resistant. TB was found to be higher in males (52.5%) than females (47.5%). The highest TB cases (62%) occurred in the age group of 15 to 44 years (c2 =26.110, p= 0.002). The occurrence of all forms of TB was higher in urban (56.6%) than in rural settings (43.4%). The incidence of TB/HIV co-infection in the study area was 19% (c2=9.534, p= 0.023). Treatment success was increased from 2014 to 2018 in both health centers; however, TB detection rate was low (45.8%) in the study area. Conclusions: This retrospective study showed a decreasing trend of TB in the last five years. However, the study implies the need to give emphasis on pulmonary TB case detection for its elimination program.