bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insights into SARS-CoV-2 Persistence and Its Relevance
Authors: Desimmie Belete Ayele , Raru Yonas Y. , Awadh Hesham M. , He Peimei , Teka Samson , Willenburg and Kara
Published: May 2021

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causative agent of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) continues to wreak havoc threatening the public health services and imposing economic collapse worldwide. Tailoring public health responses to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic depends on understanding the mechanism of viral replication, disease pathogenesis, and accurately identifying acute infections and mapping the spreading risk of hotspots across the globe. However, effective identification and isolation of persons with asymptomatic and mild SARS-CoV-2 infections remain the major obstacles to efforts in controlling the SARS-CoV-2 spread and hence the pandemic. Understanding the mechanism of persistent viral shedding, reinfection, and the post-acute sequalae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC) is crucial in our efforts to combat the pandemic and provide better care and rehabilitation to survivors. Here we present a living literature review on SARS-CoV-2 viral persistence, reinfection and PASC. We also highlight potential areas of research to uncover putative links between viral persistence, intra-host evolution, host immune status, and protective immunity to guide and direct future basic science and clinical research priorities.
KETERLIBATAN WARGA DALAM PEMBENTUKAN RUANG PUBLIK (ANALISA PEMBENTUKAN RUANG PUBLIK DALAM REVITALISASI PASAR TRADISIONAL DI KOTA SURAKARTA)
Authors: Himawan Adi , Kartono Drajat Tri , SN Supriadi
Published: May 2021

This research was conducted to offer a democratic practice model in the era of openness, decentralization and direct local head election. It is the model opening communication spaces within our society post-new order era taking into account cultural, economic and political pluralities. A public policy should be based on the public interest. In democratic world, the broad space for idea exchange and argumentation is opened well when the policy will be implemented by the government.

This research was taken place in Surakarta. This study belonged to a qualitative one with phenomenological approach. The sample of research consisted of traditional market seller, municipal government and Surakarta people. Technique of analyzing data used was domain analysis.

In the currently developing democratic world, every collective decision making in the form of public policy impossibly occurs without featuring the public space schemata having penetrated many social actions and practices. Public space is the one where the citizens can express their opinions, interest, and needs discursively. Traditional market revitalization policy becomes one important policy taken by Surakarta’s Mayor in managing the city he heads.

Keywords: Public space, consensus, involvement, democracy
SUBKULTUR GRUNGE (ANALISIS KRITIS TENTANG KONSTRUKSI REALITAS SOSIAL DAN KESADARAN KRITIS MUSISI GRUNGE DI KOTA SURABAYA)
Authors: Laksono Puji , Kartono Drajat Tri , Demartoto Argyo
Published: May 2021

Subculture born from rock subcode frequently creates a counterculture of the mainstream. In fact, subculture of grunge shows its counterculture side through its resistance against capitalism, such as grunge offers new freedom to provide platforms for its followers to put forth their idealism, anger, disappointment towards the surroundings, politics, and social matters. The purpose of this study is to determine how the construction of social reality, such as the freedom, and resistance as well as critical consciousness of grunge subculture in Surabaya. The research was conducted to the grunge musicians in Surabaya. This study uses phenomenology method consisting of the object, meaning, experience, and consciousness from the grunge musicians’ perspectives. The theory used is the theory of social reality construction of Peter L. Berger and Thomas Luckmann, combined with the critical theory ─ the theory of music from Theodor W. Adorno. Data were collected through direct observation and in-depth interviews. The validity of the data was done by using triangulation.

The findings show that the grunge musicians tend to choose grunge as their music genre because it has motivation referring to the past and the future. The factors underlied their selection of grunge genre are the lack skill of music, the influence of the association, and also the influence of the close friends or family. The purpose their selection of grunge genre are to share their hobby in music and to share aspirations. The grunge musicians construct the freedom within the characteristic aspect of musicality in which its musicians are not required to have high skills in music due to no strick standard, a performance style that shows simplicity, and also the ethics of “Do It Yourself (DIY)” which shows the attitude of self-reliance. The freedom in subkultur grunge which formerly was known as a form of resistance, indeed it is not. In fact, not all musicians interpret the freedom in grunge as a resistance. From various interpretations upon this resistance,  the grunge musicians can be categorized into three kinds, namely resistance grunge musicians, subjective-resistance grunge musicians, and non-resistence grunge mucisians. Encountering some objective structures like the music industry and socio-politic matters, the grunge musicians have found their consciousness dimensions. Those dimensions include magical, naive, and critical consciousness. Through the grunge musicians who have critical consciousness, grunge genre becomes social media criticism.

Keywords: Subcultures, Grunge, Critical consciousness, Social reality.
PEMAKNAAN BONG PAY PADA WARGA KETURUNAN TIONGHOA DI KELURAHAN SUDIROPRAJAN SURAKARTA
Authors: Masruroh Yulia , Haryono Bagus , Demartoto Argyo
Published: May 2021

Chinese culture is one of the oldest in the world. Chinese people have many interesting culture from their ancestor which they keep to preserved until today, and one of it is the making of bong pay. Bong pay is a tomb which a Chinese people called it, is a construction that build on top of the grave give a meaning that somebody has died. For Chinese people, bong pay is not just a sign but also have another hidden symbolic meaning. The purpose of this research is (1) to describe the meaning of Bong Pay to Chinese descendent at  Village Sudiroprajan of Surakarta, (2) describe the shift thing of bong pay meaning at present.

This research is using a qualitative method with a phenomenological approach to obtain the source of information and data from descendants. The samples that had been taken were 4 people of Chinese descendants from Sudiroprajan village. The sampling technique is using purposive sampling. The data source that being used primary data that included the informant, places and the research location which is Sudiroprajan village. Another research is secondary which is data or records that supporting this research.

The results of this research is (1) Chinese descendent people give a meaning to bong pay is a prove of love and respect to ancestor because ancestry is most glorifield in Confucianism, to Christian Chinese descent is a sign that a person has died not forgotten. As symbolic bong pay is describe as prestige ad social status for someone  has died, because it’s take a lot of money to make it. Bong pay is given meaning as a symbol of identity because it can be identified with culture and tradition of Chinese. (2) there is shifting on the meaning of bong pay at the present. It happen because the changing of the religion from Chinese descendent people. That changing is affecting their behavior and acting on giving the meaning of bong pay.

 

Key world : Bong Pay, Chinese Descendent People, Symbolic
PERILAKU KONSUMSI KOPI SEBAGAI BUDAYA MASYARAKAT KONSUMSI (STUDI FENOMENOLOGI PADA PEMINUM KOPI DI KEDAI KOPI KOTA SEMARANG)
Authors: Solikatun Solikatun , Kartono Drajat Tri , Demartoto Argyo
Published: May 2021

The change occurring in coffee consuming behavior cannot be apart from the effect of globalization development making the society behaving consumptively. It will result in various changes in the interpretation of coffee consuming behavior in the Semarang society. The objective of research was to find out the coffee consuming behavior, consuming society culture, and tragedy of coffee consuming culture among the coffee drinkers in coffee shops of Semarang City. The theory employed in this study was Jean P Baudrillard’s consuming society theory, Geog Simmel’s modern cultural theory, and Thorstein Veblen’s leisure class theory. This study employed a phenomenological approach, aiming to explore the motive and meaning of action in-depth concerning the coffee consuming behavior as the consuming society culture. The data collection was conducted using direct observation and in-depth interview.

The result of research showed that the interpretation of coffee consuming behavior in Semarang society had changed. The coffee consuming behavior the coffee drinkers had could be seen from the actor or coffee drinkers, the activity the do, their appearance, reason of coffee consumption and coffee consumption place. In coffee consuming behavior, not only a cup of coffee was consumed but the coffee drinker also consumed prestige, social status, elegant and exclusive impression, and modern society lifestyle. In this case, what bought and consumed was no more than the signs embedded into consumption objects. The coffee consuming behavior was made to follow the modern society lifestyle emphasizing on prestige, although the coffee drinkers knew that what they consumed sometimes was not as they wanted, for example the taste of coffee beverage served was bitter because it derived from selected coffee seed. The difference of interpretation on coffee consuming behavior between one coffee drinker and another led to coffee drinker typification. The typification of coffee drinkers in interpreting the coffee consuming behavior was divided into two: opened-modern and closed-modern coffee drinker.

 

Keywords: Consumption Behavior, Consuming Society Culture, Cultural Tragedy

 
KENAKALAN PELAJAR DALAM KELUARGA SINGLE PARENT: STUDI KASUS PADA PELAJAR DALAM KELUARGA SINGLE PARENT DI SEKOLAH MENENGAH ATAS NEGERI 1 GIRIMARTO, WONOGIRI TAHUN 2012/2013
Authors: Wahyuni Sri , Soemanto RB , Haryono Bagus
Published: May 2021

Student deliquency is a deviant behavior by students that plaguing the
society. The purposes of this research were to determine how the forms of
student deliquency, the caused factors and the efforts to address student
delinquency in single parent family in first state SMA of Girimarto. The
research method was used descriptive case study. The theory used is the
Herbert Blummer’s symbolic interactionism theory. The results showed that
the forms of student delinquency in a single parent family in first state SMA of
Girimarto are sociological delinquency and individual delinquency. The
caused factor is children inside and outside factor that is single parent families.
Efforts made by first state SMA of Girimarto in handling students delinquency
in single parent families are includes of spiritual building, support group
therapy, application of school rules were tightened, teens posyandu, lesson in
Kinanthi song and to their parents for guidance and supervision.
Keywords: Delinquency, families, single parent, students.
Effect of interactive media, make a match and lecture method on learning virus achievement
Authors: Ariyanto Agus , Kristiyanto Wahyu Hari , Nugroho Rully Adi
Published: May 2021

The study investigates the effect of interactive media, make a match, and lecture method on learning achievement of virus. The research method used was quasi-experimental (quasi-experimental) with the pretest-posttest non-equivalent control group design. This research was conducted from September 2019 to November 2019 in High School A and High School T with a duration of learning ± 3 hours of study.ANOVA test results on the average value of N-Gain showed the same results as the post-test. N-Gain in ICT learning media class, make a match learning model class and lecture learning method classes respectively amounted to 58.6 ± 13.6, 40.8 ± 17.6 and 40.5 ± 14.3. However, based on linear regression analysis, student learning outcomes are influenced by student perception factors and students' visual learning styles (P <0.05). The successful use of interactive ICT learning media is influenced by student perception factors and student visual learning style factors.
Analysis of Impacts of Working Capital Management Practices on Financial Performance of Small and Medium Enterprises (Juakali) in Mandera County, Kenya
Authors: Omar Mariam Sheikh , Ronald Martin Onsiro , Nyaga Njagi Gilbert
Published: May 2021

The main purpose of this study was to analyzing working capital management practices on the performance of Small Medium Enterprises (Juakali) and develop instruments that may be used to assess and improve the performance in a business environment to enhance sustainable growth. The study was guided by the following four research objectives: to analyze the cash management practices, to examine the payables management practices, to assess the receivables management practices and to investigate the inventory management practices on the performance of small and medium enterprises in Mandera County. The research was carried out through a descriptive survey research design. The target population was six hundred (600) SMEs from the different Juakali sectors. The study revealed that the key performance indicator utilized by SMEs in Mandera County was customer satisfaction. The outcomes showed that in Mandera County SMEs performance was generally not good. The study concludes that cash management practices adopted by SMEs affected their performance and recommends better cash management ought to be adopted by SMEs to enhance their performance in Mandera County Kenya.
A Centenary Tale of Two Pandemics: The 1918 Influenza Pandemic and COVID-19, Part I
Authors: Morens David M. , Taubenberger Jeffery K. , Fauci Anthony S.
Published: May 2021

Separated by a century, the influenza pandemic of 1918 and the COVID-19 pandemic of 2019–2021 are among the most disastrous infectious disease emergences of modern times. Although caused by unrelated viruses, the two pandemics are nevertheless similar in their clinical, pathological, and epidemiological features, and in the civic, public health, and medical responses to combat them. Comparing and contrasting the two pandemics, we consider what lessons we have learned over the span of a century and how we are applying those lessons to the challenges of COVID-19.
Scale invariance of albedo-based wind friction velocity
Authors: Ziegler Nancy , Webb Nicholas , Chappell Adrian , LeGrand Sandra
Published: May 2021

Obtaining reliable estimates of aerodynamic roughness is necessary to interpret and accurately predict aeolian sediment transport dynamics. However, inherent uncertainties in field measurements and models of surface aerodynamic properties continue to undermine aeolian research, monitoring, and dust modeling. A new relation between aerodynamic shelter and land surface shadow has been established at the wind tunnel scale, enabling the potential for estimates of wind erosion and dust emission to be obtained across scales from albedo data. Here, we compare estimates of wind friction velocity (u*) derived from traditional methods (wind speed profiles) with those derived from the albedo model at two separate scales using bare soil patch (via net radiometers) and landscape (via MODIS 500 m) datasets. Results show that profile-derived estimates of u* are highly variable in anisotropic surface roughness due to changes in wind direction and fetch. Wind speed profiles poorly estimate soil surface (bed) wind friction velocities necessary for aeolian sediment transport research and modeling. Albedo-based estimates of u* at both scales have small variability because the estimate is integrated over a defined, fixed area and resolves the partition of wind momentum be-tween roughness elements and the soil surface. We demonstrate that the wind tunnel-based calibration of albedo for predicting wind friction velocities at the soil surface (us*) is applicable across scales. The albedo-based approach enables consistent and reliable drag partition correction across scales for model and field estimates of us* necessary for wind erosion and dust emission modeling.
In situ and post-processing volume rendering with with Cinema
Authors: Bauer Andrew , Abras Jennifer , Hariharan Nathan
Published: May 2021

We present a new batch volume rendering technique which alleviates the time and expertise needed by the domain scientist in order to produce quality volume rendered results. This process can be done both in situ and as a post-processing step. The advantage of performing this as an in situ process is that the user is not required to have a priori knowledge of the exact physics and how best to create a transfer function to volume render that physics during the in situ run. For the post-processing use case, the user has the ability to easily examine a wide variety of transfer functions without the tedious work of manually generating each one.
Attitude of Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching (PGDT) Trainees towards the Teaching Profession in Ethiopia
Authors: Zeleke Tensae
Published: May 2021

This study explored the attitude of trainees in postgraduate diploma in teaching towards the teaching profession. The study had a descriptive survey design. Two hundred and fifty-eight trainees participated in the study. Proportionate stratified random and simple random sampling were used in the selection of the study participants. Quantitative data was collected using a standardized questionnaire developed by Renthlei and Malsawmi (2015). Percentages and Stanine scale frequency distributions were used to analyze the data and report the findings. The study revealed that a lack of other better job opportunities was the main reason for the trainees to choose teaching as their future profession. Most also expressed the interest to quit the training and join any other better job opportunity the moment they get the chance. Overall, the majority had a low attitude towards teaching as a profession. Such a low trainees’ attitude towards teaching and their intention to quit the training or leave the profession any time the opportunity comes their way, puts the government’s plan to expand the coverage of education in jeopardy. Clearly, an increase in schools cannot be achieved without a parallel increase in the number of qualified teachers. Finally, implications of the findings were forwarded to pertinent bodies in teacher education programs.
Shorebird Surveys of the Lahontan Valley Nevada, 1986–2019, with Recommendations on Monitoring and Management
Authors: Senner Stanley , Tavernia Brian , Jeffers Jenni , Iglecia Monica , Chagnon Bethany
Published: May 2021

Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge and Carson Lake and Pasture are the key components of the Lahontan Valley wetlands, designated in 1988 as a site of hemispheric importance in the Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network. In 1990, Congress authorized transfer of Carson Lake and Pasture from federal ownership to the state of Nevada, provided that the area be managed consistent with its designation as part of the network. To enhance protection and management of the site, and specifically to inform development of a management plan for Carson Lake and Pasture, we analyzed spring and fall surveys for shorebirds, 1986–2019, archived by the Nevada Department of Wildlife. Over the 34 years of surveys, we documented 28 species, 19 of which occurred in ≥50% of the years surveyed. Annual counts of all shorebirds combined exceeded 100,000 in 24% of the survey years and 20,000 in 94%. Annual counts of the American Avocet (Recurvirostra americana) exceeded 10% (45,000 individuals) of the estimated global population in three years, and of the Long-billed Dowitcher (Limnodromus scolopaceus; 50,000 individuals) in two years. On the basis of their numbers and frequency of occurrence or status as species of national conservation concern, we identified these two species plus nine others as priorities for management. We recommend conducting more consistent surveys and identifying specific opportunities to manage water quantity and quality, vegetation, livestock grazing, or other factors to benefit shorebirds.
A Contact Zone between Coastal and Interior Fox Sparrows in South-Central Alaska
Authors: DeCicco Lucas H.
Published: May 2021

I report observations, supported by museum voucher specimens, photographs, and audio recordings, from an area of breeding contact between two divergent groups of subspecies of the Fox Sparrow (Passerella iliaca) in upper Cook Inlet, south-central Alaska. In this area, covering ~50 km2, the interior iliaca group comes in contact with the Pacific coast unalaschcensis group in lowland mixed boreal forest. Phenotypically pure P. i. zaboria and P. i. sinuosa (subspecies representing the iliaca and unalaschcensis groups, respectively) occur in approximately equal abundances and outnumber intermediate phenotypes. These subspecies co-occur on a fine scale, males of zaboria and sinuosa often holding adjacent territories. I conclude that some form of pre- or post-zygotic isolating mechanism between these two subspecies-groups is hindering free interbreeding.
Osteopathy in Germany: attitudes, beliefs and handling among general practitioners – results of a nationwide cross-sectional questionnaire survey
Authors: Schmid Gordian Lukas , Kluge Jeremias , Deutsch Tobias , Geier Anne-Kathrin , Bleckwenn Markus , Unverzagt Susanne , Frese Thomas
Published: May 2021

Background: Osteopathy is a type of complementary medicine based on specific manual techniques. In many countries, including Germany, the profession is not officially regulated, and evidence for the effectiveness of osteopathy is insufficient for most diseases. Nevertheless, many health insurances in Germany offer reimbursement for therapy costs, if osteopathy is recommended by a physician. This cross-sectional survey of German general practitioners (GPs) explored beliefs and attitudes towards osteopathic medicine and described their daily interactions with it. Methods: A random sample of 1000 GPs from all federal states was surveyed by mail using a self-designed questionnaire. We collected data on sociodemographics, personal experiences with osteopathy, and attitudes and expectations towards osteopathy. In particular, participants were asked about indications for osteopathic treatment and their beliefs about its effectiveness for different patient groups and diagnoses. A self-designed score was used to estimate general attitudes towards osteopathy and identify factors correlated with greater openness. Additionally, we performed logistic regression to reveal factors associated with the frequency of recommending osteopathy to patients. Results: Response rate was 34.4%. 46.5% of participants were women, and the median age was 56.0 years. 91.3% of GPs had referred patients to an osteopath, and 88.0% had recommended osteopathy to their patients. However, 57.5% acknowledged having little or no knowledge about osteopathy. Most frequent reasons for a recommendation were spinal column disorders (46.2%), other complaints of the musculoskeletal system (18.2%) and headaches (9.8%). GPs estimated the highest benefit for chronically ill and middle-aged adults. Female gender (OR 2.09; 95%CI 1.29-3.38) and personal treatment experiences (OR 5.14; 95%CI 2.72-9.72) were independently positively associated with more frequent treatment recommendation. Conclusion: GPs in Germany have frequent contact with osteopathy, and the vast majority have recommended osteopathic treatment to some extent in their practice, with foci and opinions comparable to other Western countries. The discrepancy between GPs making frequent referrals for osteopathic treatment while self-assessing to have little knowledge about it demonstrates need for intensified research on the collaboration with osteopaths and how to best integrate osteopathic treatments. Our results may help to focus future effectiveness studies on most relevant clinical conditions in general practice.
Towards a metagenomics machine learning interpretable model for understanding the transition from adenoma to colorectal cancer
Authors: Casimiro-Soriguer Carlos S , Loucera Carlos , Pena-Chilet Maria , Dopazo Joaquin
Published: May 2021

Background: Gut microbiome is gaining interest because of its links with several diseases, including colorectal cancer (CRC), as well as the possibility of being used to obtain non-intrusive predictive disease biomarkers. Results: Here we performed a meta-analysis of 1042 fecal metagenomic samples from seven publicly available studies. We used an interpretable machine learning approach based on functional profiles, instead of the conventional taxonomic profiles, to produce a highly accurate predictor of CRC with better precision than those of previous proposals. Moreover, this approach is also able to discriminate samples with adenoma, which makes this approach very promising for CRC prevention by detecting early stages in which intervention is easier and more effective. In addition, interpretable machine learning methods allow extracting features relevant for the classification, which reveals basic molecular mechanisms accounting for the changes undergone by the microbiome functional landscape in the transition from healthy gut to adenoma and CRC conditions. Conclusions: Functional profiles have demonstrated to provide superior accuracy in predicting CRC and adenoma conditions than taxonomic profiles and additionally, in a context of explainable machine learning, provide useful hints on the molecular mechanisms operating in the microbiota behind these conditions.
Feasibility and Outcomes of Bronchial Artery Embolization in Patients with Non-Massive Hemoptysis
Authors: Hwang Jung Han , Kim Jeong Ho , Park Suyoung , Lee Ki Hyun , Park So Hyun
Published: May 2021

Purpose
To evaluate the safety, efficacy, and long-term outcome of bronchial artery embolization (BAE) in the treatment of non-massive hemoptysis and the prognostic factors associated with recurrent bleeding.
Materials and Methods
From March 2005 to September 2014, BAE was performed in 233 patients with non-massive hemoptysis. All patients had a history of persistent or recurrent hemoptysis despite conservative medical treatment. We assessed the technical and clinical success, recurrence, prognostic factors related to recurrent bleeding, recurrence-free survival rate, additional treatment, and major complications in all the patients.
Results
Technical success was achieved in 224 patients (96.1%), and clinical success was obtained in 219 (94.0%) of the 233 patients. In addition, 64 patients (27.5%) presented hemoptysis recurrence with median time of 197 days after embolization. Tuberculosis sequelae, active tuberculosis, and presence of aberrant bronchial artery or non-bronchial systemic collaterals were significantly related to recurrent bleeding (p < 0.05). The use of Histoacryl-based embolic materials significantly reduced the recurrent bleeding rate (p < 0.05). Patient who had a tuberculosis sequelae and active tuberculosis showed a significantly lower recurrence-free survival rate (p = 0.013). Presence of aberrant bronchial artery or non-bronchial systemic collaterals showed a statistically significant correlation with recurrence-free survival rate (p = 0.021). No patients had major complications during follow-up.
Conclusions
BAE is a safe and effective treatment to manage non-massive hemoptysis. The procedure may offer a better long-term control of recurrent hemoptysis and quality of life than conservative therapy alone.
Effect of prone positioning on oxygenation and static respiratory system compliance in COVID-19 ARDS versus non-COVID ARDS
Authors: Park Jimyung , Lee Hong Yeul , Lee Jinwoo , Lee Sang-Min
Published: May 2021

Background: Prone positioning is recommended for patients with moderate-to-severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) receiving mechanical ventilation. While the debate continues as to whether COVID-19 ARDS is clinically different from non-COVID ARDS, there is little data on whether the physiological effects of prone positioning differ between the two conditions. We aimed to compare the physiological effect of prone positioning between patients with COVID-19 ARDS and those with non-COVID ARDS. Methods: We retrospectively compared 23 patients with COVID-19 ARDS and 145 patients with non-COVID ARDS treated using prone positioning while on mechanical ventilation. Changes in PaO2/FiO2 ratio and static respiratory system compliance (Crs) after the first session of prone positioning were compared between the two groups: first, using all patients with non-COVID ARDS, and second, using subgroups of patients with non-COVID ARDS matched 1:1 with patients with COVID-19 ARDS for baseline PaO2/FiO2 ratio and static Crs. We also evaluated whether the response to the first prone positioning session was associated with the clinical outcome. Results: When compared with the entire group of patients with non-COVID ARDS, patients with COVID-19 ARDS showed more pronounced improvement in the PaO2/FiO2 ratio (adjusted difference 39.3 [95% CI 5.2–73.5] mmHg) and static Crs (adjusted difference 3.4 [95% CI 1.1–5.6] mL/cmH2O). However, these between-group differences were not significant when the matched samples (either PaO2/FiO2-matched or compliance-matched) were analyzed. The improvements in PaO2/FiO2 ratio (subdistribution hazard ratio 1.19, 95% CI 1.08–1.30) and static Crs (subdistribution hazard ratio 1.57, 95% CI 1.29–1.91) after the first prone positioning session were associated with successful discontinuation of mechanical ventilation in patients with COVID-19 ARDS. Conclusions: In patients with COVID-19 ARDS, prone positioning was as effective in improving respiratory physiology as in patients with non-COVID ARDS. Thus, it should be actively considered as a therapeutic option. The physiological response to the first session of prone positioning was predictive of the clinical outcome of patients with COVID-19 ARDS.
Economic growth target and environmental regulation intensity: Evidence from 284 cities in China
Authors: Li Feiyang , Wang Zhen , Huang liangxiong
Published: May 2021

Management of economic growth targets is a universal measure employed by worldwide governments for macroeconomic regulation, as well as an important mechanism for central governments to motivate local governments and officials. This paper extracted panel data on annual economic growth targets and environmental regulation indicators from government work reports (2009–2016) of 284 China’s prefecture-level cities to empirically investigate the impact of economic growth targets set by governments of prefecture-level cities on the environmental regulation intensity. The study concludes that an increase in economic growth targets significantly weakens the intensity of environmental regulation. The conclusion still holds true after robustness tests by changing measurement variables, regression samples and conducting endogenous tests. This also corroborates that empirical results in this study are robust. The underlying reason for the inhibitory effect may be that local governments to achieve economic growth targets prefer less stringent environmental regulations so as to expand outputs in the short term, mainly by increasing the proportion of secondary industry in GDP, land transfer area and fixed asset investment. Further research in this paper also finds that the negative effect of a local government’s annual economic growth target on environmental regulation intensity only exists in cities with low economic development levels and low openness to the outside world.
Path Planning Algorithm for Fatigue Life Prediction of SiC/AL MMCs Considering Residual Stress
Authors: Shang Wenqian , Liu Xintian , Wang Xu , Wang Xiaolan
Published: May 2021

To explore the influence of path deflection on crack propagation, a path planning algorithm is presented to calculate the crack growth length. The fatigue crack growth life of metal matrix composites (MMCs) is estimated based on an improved Paris formula. Considering the different expansion coefficient of different materials, the unequal shrinkage will lead to residual stress when the composite is molded and cooled. The crack growth model is improved by the modified stress ratio based on residual stress. Although the data obtained by the new model are not consistent with the experimental data very well, it can still prove that the idea of establishing the model is effective to a certain extent.
Extent of Asymptomatic Plasmodium spp. Infections and Associated Risk Factors at Household and Individual Levels in Korhogo Health District, Northern Côte d’Ivoire: implications for Malaria Control
Authors: Benié Edjronké Marc Alexis , Silué Kigbafori D. , Esso Lasme J. C. E. , Coulibaly Jean T. , Kouadio Kouamé I. , Tuo karim , Gbalégba Constant G. N. , Kaba Aboudraman , Kouakou Yao E. , Assi Serge-Brice , Bonfoh Bassirou , Ding Xavier C. , N’Goran Eliézer K.
Published: May 2021

Background: Plasmodium spp. asymptomatic carriers are potential reservoirs contributing to the persistence of malaria transmission in endemic areas. The study was designed to assess the extent of Plasmodium spp. asymptomatic infection at household and individual levels and associated risk factors in Northern Côte d’Ivoire.Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in July 2016 at household level in the health district of Korhogo. A questionnaire was administered to household’s head to capture socio-demographic information and practices including malaria treatment and preventive measures. In each household, adults without malaria symptoms nor history of fever during the week before recruitment were screened. Capillary blood samples were collected and used for the detection of Plasmodium spp. infections using both conventional microscopy and a loop-mediated isothermal DNA amplification (LAMP) assay. Logistic regression was used to determine variables that influenced Plasmodium spp. asymptomatic infections.Results: In total, 376 households and 1’011 asymptomatic adults were screened. Asymptomatic Plasmodium spp. infections were identified in 12.5% [47/376] and 38.3% [144/376] of the households and in 5.2% [53/1011] and 18.8% [190/1011] of the individuals screened, according to microscopy and LAMP, respectively. At household level, asymptomatic carriers increased about two times when using mosquito repellent coils compared to those where it is not used (OR: 1.8; p=0.005). At individual level, men’s risk to be infected was about two times that of women (OR: 1.9; p<0.001). The odd to be infected was also two times higher in population living in periurban areas compared to those leaving in the urban center (OR: 2.3; p<0.001). Additionally, age appear to be risk factor, with younger individuals being at higher risk of infection than elders (OR: 0.5; p=0.001).ConclusionPlasmodium spp. asymptomatic carriers is important in Northern Côte d’Ivoire and male, age under 30 and perirban living area appear as significant risk factors. Interventions aiming at eliminating asymptomatic infections in this context, should primarily target among other strategy, the at-risk populations and zones.
Photoacoustic Response Optimization of Gold Nanorods in the Near-Infrared Region
Authors: Sun Jian-Ping , Ren Yatao , Jiang Dong-Hang , He Ming-Jian , Gao Bao-Hai , Qi Hong
Published: May 2021

Photoacoustic imaging (PAI) combines the advantage of optical and ultrasonic imaging, which have a high signal-to-noise ratio, penetration depth, and spatial resolution. To further improve the performance of PAI, gold nanorods (AuNRs) can be utilized as exogenous contrast agents. Therefore, in the present work, the photoacoustic properties of AuNRs in an aqueous solution in the near-infrared region are studied by the finite element method. The effects of different factors including orientation of AuNRs, incident laser wavelength, aspect ratio, and equivalent radius on the absorption efficiency, photothermal response, photoacoustic response, and the photoacoustic conversion efficiency of AuNRs are analyzed. Results show that the photoacoustic properties of AuNRs are highly related to their absorption efficiency which alters with the orientation of AuNRs and wavelength of the incident light. Moreover, the aspect ratio and equivalent radius significantly influence the heat transfer characteristics of AuNRs, which further leads to a variation of the photothermal response, photoacoustic response, and photoacoustic conversion efficiency of the AuNRs. Finally, we provide strategies to improve the photoacoustic signal of AuNRs at specific wavelengths. The structure of AuNRs at 808 nm and 1064 nm is optimized, and the size of AuNRs, which can obtain the maximum photoacoustic signal is obtained theoretically. Meanwhile, considering that it is difficult to achieve uniform size when synthesizing nanorods, the size range of nanorods with a photoacoustic efficiency threshold of 95% is given.
Maresin 1 promotes nerve regeneration and alleviates neuropathic pain after nerve injury
Authors: Wei Jinhuan , Chen Gang , Su Wenfeng , Zhao Yayu , Wei Zhongya , Hua Yuchen , Xue Peng , Zhu Xiang , Chen Ying
Published: May 2021

Background: Peripheral nerve injury (PNI) is a public health concern that results in sensory and motor disorders as well as neuropathic pain and secondary lesions. Currently, effective treatments for PNI are still limited. For example, while nerve growth factor (NGF) is widely used in the treatment of PNI to promote nerve regeneration, it also induces pain. Maresin 1 (MaR1) is an anti-inflammatory and proresolving mediator that has the potential to regenerate tissue. We determined whether MaR1 is able to promote nerve regeneration as well as alleviating neuropathic pain, and to be considered as a putative therapeutic agent for treating PNI.Methods: PNI models were constructed with eight-week-old adult male ICR mice and treated with NGF, MaR1 or saline by local application, intrathecal injection or intraplantar injection. Behavioral analysis and muscle atrophy test were assessed after treatment. Immunofluorescence assay was performed to examine the expression of ATF-3, GFAP, IBA1, and NF200. The expression transcript levels of inflammatory factors IL1β, IL-6, and TNF-α were detected by quantitative real-time RT-PCR. AKT, ERK, mTOR, PI3K, phosphorylated AKT, phosphorylated ERK, phosphorylated mTOR, and phosphorylated PI3K levels were examined by western blot analysis. Whole-cell patch-clamp recordings were executed to detect transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) currents.Results: MaR1 demonstrated a more robust ability to promote sensory and motor function recovery in mice after sciatic nerve crush injury than NGF. Immunohistochemistry analyses showed that the administration of MaR1 to mice with nerve crush injury reduced the number of damaged DRG neurons, promoted injured nerve regeneration and inhibited gastrocnemius muscle atrophy. Western blot analysis of ND7/23 cells cultured with MaR1 revealed that MaR1 regulated neurite outgrowth through the PI3K-AKT-mTOR signaling pathway. Moreover, MaR1 dose-dependently attenuated the mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia induced by nerve injury. Consistent with the analgesic effect, MaR1 inhibited capsaicin-elicited TRPV1 currents, repressed the nerve injury-induced activation of spinal microglia and astrocytes and reduced the production of proinflammatory cytokines in the spinal cord dorsal horn in PNI mice.Conclusions: Application of MaR1 to PNI mice significantly promoted nerve regeneration and alleviated neuropathic pain, suggesting that MaR1 is a promising therapeutic agent for PNI.
Performance Enhancement Method for Multiple License Plate Recognition in Challenging Environment
Authors: khan khurram , Imran Abid , Rehman Hafiz Zia Ur , Fazil adnan , Zakwan Muhammad , Mehmood Zahid
Published: May 2021

Multiple-license plate recognition is gaining popularity in the Intelligent Transport System (ITS) applications for security monitoring and surveillance. Advancements in acquisition devices have increased the availability of High definition (HD) images, which also can capture images of multiple vehicles. Since License Plate (LP) occupies a relatively small portion of an image, therefore, detection of LP in an image is considered a challenging task. Moreover, the overall performance deteriorates when the low-resolution factor combines with an unconstrained environment, such as night, dusk, and rainy, etc. As it is difficult to locate a small object with varying conditions in an entire image, this paper proposes a two-step approach for plate localization in challenging conditions. In the first step, the Faster-Region-based Convolutional Neural Network algorithm (Faster R-CNN) is used to detect all the vehicles in an image, which results in scaled information to locate plates. In the second step, morphological operations are employed to reduce non-plate regions. Meanwhile, geometric properties are used to localize plates in the HSI color space. This approach increases accuracy and reduces processing time. For character recognition, the Look-Up Table (LUT) classifier using adaptive boosting with Modified Census transform (MCT) as a feature extractor is used. Both proposed plate detection and character recognition methods have significantly outperformed conventional approaches in terms of precision and recall for multiple plate recognition.
First-principles study on methane storage properties of porous graphene modified with Mn
Authors: Zhao Yingjie , Chen Yuhong , Xu Wenhui , Zhang Meiling , Sang Cuicui , Zhang Cairong
Published: May 2021

Porous graphene (PG) has a promising future in gas storage due to its unique pore characteristics and large specific surface area. The adsorption properties of PG and PG modified by Mn atoms (Mn-PG) for CH4 molecules have been studied based on first-principles density functional theory. It was found that the optimal adsorption position of CH4 on PG was the carbon annulus pore, and the adsorption energy was − 0.174 eV. The optimal position of the PG system modified by a single Mn atom is the central hole of the carbon ring, and the optimal position of the two Mn atoms is that Mn atoms are respectively located at different carbon ring holes on the opposite side of PG, with an average binding energy of -4.101 eV. The modification of Mn atom enhances the electronegativity of PG substrate and forms a negative charge center at the carbon ring, which is beneficial to enhance the adsorption performance of CH4 molecules with positive charge on the surface. The CH4 molecules are adsorbed on the PG surface through the electrostatic interaction with Mn atoms and PG substrates as well as the intermolecular force of CH4 molecules. Mn-PG system can adsorb 6 CH4 molecules on one side, and the average adsorption energy is -0.345 eV. When PG was modified with two Mn atoms, 12 CH4 molecules could be adsorbed on both sides, and the average adsorption energy was − 0.338 eV, the adsorption capacity can reach 38.43 wt.%.
WITHDRAWN: Subclinical Sequelae of acute Kidney Injury Predispose To Acute Kidney Injury In Rats: Diagnostic Biomarkers
Authors: Fuentes-Calvo Isabel , Cuesta Cristina , Sancho-Martinez Sandra M. , Hidalgo-Thomas Omar A. , Paniagua-Sancho Maria , Lopez-Hernandez Francisco J. , Martinez-Salgado Carlos
Published: May 2021

Background. Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a risk factor for new AKI episodes and progression to chronic kidney disease, cardiovascular events and death, as under certain circumstances renal repair is maladaptive leading to proinflammatory and profibrotic signals. The definition for AKI recovery is based on increases in plasma creatinine, but it only happens when 50-70 % of nephrons have been lost. There are no studies monitoring the real state of structural and functional recovery after an AKI episode. We analysed the functional and structural sequelae after an episode of AKI in rats, whether and for how long animals retain enhanced sensibility to AKI and whether such a condition may be detected by known biomarkers of subclinical renal damage.Methods. We performed a cisplatin (5mg/kg body weight)-induced AKI in rats and, after recovery, we studied the renal susceptibility to new AKI episodes after treatment with subtoxic doses of gentamicin (50 mg/kg).Results. One week after the recuperation of a cisplatin-induced AKI, the kidneys show histological alterations (cast formation, necrosis and tubular dilatation), and predisposition to new AKI episodes after subtoxic gentamicin treatment. Tubular function (urine output and urinary excretion of K+, assessed by the furosemide tubular function test) remains affected despite the recovery of renal filtration after the AKI episode. Several urinary biomarkers detect this subclinical damage: albumin, transferrin, insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 7 (IGFBP7) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-2 (TIMP-2). The increased [TIMP-2]*[IGFBP7] urinary excretion predicts new AKI episodes before gentamicin subtoxic treatment.Conclusions. After a cisplatin-induced AKI, the kidneys are in functional risk for new AKI episodes, which can be prevented by monitoring IGFBP7 and TIMP-2 urinary excretion. Our findings require subsequent clinical validation to verify the potential of these biomarkers in predicting future episodes of kidney damage.
A semi-synthetic red light photoswitch for optogenetic control of protein activity
Authors: Kuwasaki Yuto , Suzuki Kazushi , Yu Gaigai , Kakihara Yuki , Nishiwaki Michiru , Fushimi Keiji , Bekdash Ramsey , Shimizu Yoshihiro , Narikawa Rei , Nakajima Takahiro , Yazawa Masayuki , Sato Moritoshi
Published: May 2021

Red light is useful for optogenetic control of various protein activities in mammalian deep tissues due to its high tissue penetration, low invasiveness, and low light scattering. However, technology that enables for the optogenetic manipulation using red light remains elusive. Here we develop a red light-activatable, semi-synthetic photoswitch, named MagRed. MagRed is composed of a red light-absorbing bacterial phytochrome incorporating a mammalian endogenous chromophore, biliverdin, and its photo-state-specific de novo synthetic binder. MagRed allows us to reassemble split-proteins using red light and thereby develop a red light-activatable Cre recombinase, which is applicable for mammalian deep tissues. Additionally, we take advantage of MagRed to develop red light-inducible transcription system based on the CRISPR-Cas9 system, enabling for high induction (up to 378-fold) of multiple user-defined endogenous target genes. With high versatility and regulatability, MagRed provides a powerful technology that easily facilitates optogenetics applications for a variety of biological research areas.