bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanisms of Delayed Lower Urinary Tract Stone Formation after Holmium Laser Enucleation of Prostate
Authors: Arif Fawad , West Alaiyi
Published: February 2021

Materials and methods:

We analysed Holmium Laser Enucleation of Prostate (HOLEP) database consisting of 1300 patients who presented more than 18 months after undergoing the procedure with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTSvoiding lower urinary tract symptoms, dysuria, haematuria, recurrent urinary tract infections-UTIs) secondary to delayed lower urinary tract stone formation. Information was gathered from the case notes, imaging modalities, operation notes and pathology reports.

Results:

Three patients were identified who presented with delayed lower urinary tract stone formation 18 months after undergoing HOLEP.

Case 1: A 68-year-old presented with a 4-cm mobile bladder stone on a retained prostatic fragment 29 months after HOLEP.

Case 2: A 74-year-old presented with 2.5 cm bulbar urethral stone 18 months after HOLEP.

Case 3: A 77-year-old presented with dystrophic calcification of the entire prostatic fossa 60 months after HOLEP.

Conclusion:

Delayed lower urinary tract stone presentation is unusual after HOLEP. Recurrent urethral pain, recurrent UTI, gross haematuria and voiding lower urinary tract symptoms in the presence of a lower urinary tract stone (bladder, prostate and urethra) with a radiolucent centre on a background of HOLEP should raise the suspicion that this may represent calcification on a prostatic tissue fragment or dystrophic calcification of the residual prostate/prostatic fossa. Careful morcellation, inspection of the prostatic fossa on withdrawing the morcellator for large residual prostate fragments still attached to the prostatic bed/bladder neck or simply stuck to the fossa (usually in a clot) will reduce the risk of retainment of such a significant prostatic fragment that can potentially cause complications in the future.
Got waste: knowledge, behavior and self-assessment on food waste of university students in Germany
Authors: Gabriel Andreas , Rombach Meike , Wieser Hannah , Bitsch Vera
Published: February 2021

The paper analyzes German students’ interest, perceived importance, knowledge, and behavior regarding food waste. This target group was expected to differ from the general population in terms of food consumption (shopping, cooking, and storage of food) and increased food waste due to their lifestyle. An online survey resulted in 253 participants enrolled in different study programs. Of the sample, 64% studied in life science programs, which were anticipated to have an impact on students’ behavior regarding food. Linear regression models were used to determine the importance of food waste avoidance to students, and their frequency of food disposal. In addition, students were asked about reasons for food waste and assessed statements for each consumption phase. High positive impacts were found for students’ general interest in food waste topics. They attested themselves sensible handling of food products, and rated themselves better than the average German consumer in all surveyed statements. For the target group of university students, detailed knowledge of food waste issues showed little influence on reported behaviors. In conclusion, awareness campaigns, while useful, should not be the only way to target a reduction in food waste, but have to be supplemented by other means.
Long term relationship between exports, gross domestic capital formation, transfer fund allocation, and private investment in Jambi Province
Authors: Syekh Sayid , Zainuddin Zainuddin
Published: February 2021

This study investigates the relationship between Jambi export with gross domestic capital formation, allocation of transfer funds, and private investment, based on the Vector Error Correction Model (VECM). The results show that, both in the short and long term, the gross domestic capital formation, allocation of transfer funds, and private investment can explain changes in Jambi exports. The gross domestic capital formation strongly influences Jambi's export fluctuations compared to other variables. There is a disequilibrium relationship in the short term, and it becomes equilibrium in the long run. Only 69 percent of export changes can be determined in the current period, and the rest is determined in other periods. Likewise, the gross domestic capital formation, only 38 percent, can be determined in the current period, and the rest is determined in other periods. Based on the impulse response function, the impact of export shocks has a large impact on itself. Shocks have a very significant impact and have a long lead to stable levels. Shocks can cause changes in Jambi exports to gross domestic capital formation. Shocks to the formation of gross domestic capital formation require a long time to reach a stable level.
The role of employee performance mediation on organizational performance
Authors: Herawati Efi , Tan Syamsurijal , Lubis Tona Aurora , Hidayat M. Syurya
Published: February 2021

This study aimed to analyze the effect of employee training and development, motivation, work environment, employee competence on employee performance, and organizational performance. This study also aims to analyze employee performance as a mediating variable on organizational performance. The method of this research used SEM-PLS analysis. This research used all civil servants employees in The Regional Technical Implementing Unit for Goods Quality and Certification Testing Center (UPTD BPSMB) of the Jambi Province, Indonesia. This research concluded that Organizational performance is influenced by motivation, employee competence, work environment, and employee performance. Training and development, motivation, and work environment affect employee performance.  Training and development, employee competence, work environment affect organizational performance mediated by employee performance. However, the influence of motivation on organizational performance cannot be mediated by employee performance
Monitoring of current land use pattern of Ramsar designated Kolleru Wetland, India using geospatial technologies
Authors:   Department of ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Fisheries Resource Management, Mumbai-400 061, India, Shivakrishna A. , Ramteke K.K. ,   Department of ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Fisheries Resource Management, Mumbai-400 061, India, Kesavan S. ,   Department of ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Fisheries Resource Management, Mumbai-400 061, India, Prasad P. ,   Department of CSIR- National Institute of Oceanography, Geological Oceanography, Goa- 403 004, India, Naidu B.C. ,   Department of ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Fisheries Resource Management, Mumbai-400 061, India, Dhanya M. ,   Department of ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Fisheries Resource Management, Mumbai-400 061, India, Abidi Z.J. ,   Department of ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Fisheries Resource Management, Mumbai-400 061, India
Published: February 2021

Aim: The present study is an attempt to analyze the land use pattern of Kolleru Lake in and around by using the techniques of remote sensing and GIS to detect the temporal changes of the Kolleru Lake. Methodology: The 1938 and 1967 years topographic sheets and Landsat-5 TM of 1997 and Resoucesat-2 LISS 4 of 2017 satellite images were used and analyzed by the latest version of Arc GIS 10.4 and ERDAS IMAGINE 2016 (Version 16.00). Unsupervised and supervised classification was done for 1997 and 2017 images, respectively. Results: It was estimated from the topographic map of 1938 that the total lake boundary area was 230.15 km2. Digital image processing of 2017 satellite data revealed that the lake area of 76.9 km2 (32.45%) only remained degraded, extensively colonized by macrophytes. The land use/land cover maps of 1997 and 2017 revealed that lake area was significantly occupied by aquaculture which amounted to 84 km2 (36.53%) and 56 km2 (24.35%), respectively, and no aquaculture activity was reported from 1938 and 1967 toposheets. Interpretation: The geospatial analysis data gives accurate and reliable information and associated factors. The spatio-temporal analysis data provide a significant foundation for monitoring activities in other lake systems, and are applicable to monitoring wetland use patterns in other sites of international importance. Key words: Eutrophication, Geospatial technology, Kolleru wetland, Macrophytes, Remote sensing
The geography of parasite local adaptation to host communities
Authors: Bellis Emily , McLaughlin Chloee , DePamphilis Claude , Lasky Jesse
Published: February 2021

Fitness responses to environment can shape species distributions, though
opposing eco-evolutionary processes can obscure environmental effects.
For example, host specificity influences parasite dynamics, but is
unclear how adaptation of parasites to local host communities may scale
up to continental distributions. Here, we develop a macroecological
framework to determine how host community structure affects the
distribution of specialist and generalist populations of Striga
hermonthica, an African parasitic plant of cereal crops. Combining data
from global crop production and parasite experimental trials, we find
that parasites perform best on the host species that is most common in
their location of origin. Moreover, niche model contrasts predict
parasite specialization on two hosts that evolved
alongside Striga during domestication (pearl millet and
sorghum), indicating that specialist parasites may be most likely
to occur where host niches differ most in multivariate environmental
space.  Our study demonstrates that patterns of parasite local
adaptation to host communities can emerge at continental scales and that
differential environmental tolerances of hosts indirectly shape the
distribution of specialist and generalist parasites.  By predicting
spatial dynamics of parasite specialization versus generalization
directly from environmental data, our approach may help inform current
and future management of pests and disease.
Waterbird habitat loss fringing the Yellow and Bohai seas along the East Asian--Australasian migratory flyway
Authors: Duan Houlang , Yu Xiubo , Xia Shaoxia , Zhang Guangshuai
Published: February 2021

Natural wetland along the coasts of Yellow and Bohai seas provided key
stopover sites for migratory waterbirds. However, these wetlands are
facing land loss. Understanding how natural wetlands loss influence
habitat is an important step for habitat management. Using species
distribution model to report changes in area of suitable habitat, and
the effects of natural wetland loss on habitat for 80 waterbird species
attributed to four functional categories (shorebird, duck, heron, gull),
between 2000 and 2015 in the Yellow and Bohai seas. Of 1794.8 km2 of
coastal wetland lost to development between 2000 and 2015, most
represented tidal flats converted into aquaculture and salt pan habitat,
or for construction. Consequently, habitat for 73 of these 80 species
has decreased in area over this time period. Generally, the proportional
decline in habitat suitable for species of duck was less than it was
shorebirds, herons and gulls. The proportional loss of tidal flat
habitat that formerly represented suitable habitat for shorebirds,
herons and gulls was also significantly higher than it was for ducks.
Because more species of duck exploit aquaculture and salt pan habitat
converted from tidal flats than do shorebird, heron and gull species,
such conversion of tidal flats pose a greater threat to shorebirds,
herons and gulls than they do to ducks. Preventing further reclamation
of tidal flats and managing artificial wetlands are priorities for
waterbirds conservation, especially for the species ducks.
Universal rules of life: metabolic rates, biological times and the equal fitness paradigm
Authors: Burger Joseph , Hou Chen , Hall Charles , Brown James
Published: February 2021

Here we review and extend the equal fitness paradigm (EFP) as an
important step in developing and testing a synthetic theory of ecology
and evolution based on energy and metabolism. The EFP states that all
organisms are equally fit at steady state, because they allocate the
same quantity of energy, ~22.4 kJ/g/generation to
production of offspring. On the one hand, the EFP may seem tautological,
because equal fitness is necessary for the origin and persistence of
biodiversity. On the other hand, the EFP reflects universal laws of
life: how biological metabolism – the uptake, transformation and
allocation of energy – links ecological and evolutionary patterns and
processes across levels of organization from: i) structure and function
of individual organisms, ii) life history and dynamics of populations,
iii) interactions and coevolution of species in ecosystems. The physics
and biology of metabolism have facilitated the evolution of millions of
species with idiosyncratic anatomy, physiology, behavior and ecology but
also with many shared traits and tradeoffs that reflect the single
origin and universal rules of life.
Religious Hermeneutics as a Means of De-escalating Conflict and Sustaining the Peace
Authors: Olayinka Akintayo Sunday
Published: February 2021

This paper presents the roles the interpretations of religious text(s)
and understanding of religion play in the sustainability of peace among
the Yorùbá people of southwest Nigeria. The Yorùbá’s way of interacting
and practising religion has remained moderately amiable over the last
two centuries. With attention on Yoruba Christians and Muslims, this
author examines some specific religious concepts and social values that
have been useful in guiding the two religions to retain their peace or
return to dialogue table to refrain from violence and keep the peace.

Please note: The bulk of this article is taken from chapter 8
of the author’s doctoral dissertation with a few amendments to suit this
journal.

Keywords: Christian-Muslim relations, peace studies, African
Yoruba, religious – ethics – culture – values.
INEVITABLE INTERACTIONS FOSTERING PEACE IN THE CONTEXT OF CULTURE AND RELIGION
Authors: Olayinka Akintayo Sunday
Published: February 2021

The inevitability of interactions among the Yorùbá as a community of
people regardless of their religious differences is the focus of this
paper. Here, I present how the Yorùbá have displayed a substantial
evidence of freedom of religion and understanding of their neighbours to
manage conflict and sustain their peace. One of the ways in which
religion has been useful to maintain good relationships among the Yorùbá
is its focus on tolerance, patience, and other virtues that the leaders
teach their members. Their social interactions at home and within their
community are incredibly inevitable, and these helped to keep the Yorùbá
in harmony and to settle conflicts and disputes more often than would
have thought of in other communities.

Note: This paper is a part of the author’s research findings and
contains some of chapter seven of the dissertation with a few amendments
to suit this journal article requirement.
COVID-19 coinfection in patients with active tuberculosis: First case-report in Iran
Authors: Fard Nasrin Ghodrati , Khaledi Mansoor , Afkhami Hamed , Barzan Molood , Farahani Hamed Eraghiye , Sameni Fatemeh , Gholizade Omid , Maghsoudi Fatemeh , Nezhad Reza Farhadi , mobarak Sara , Nojoumi Seyed Ali , Mohammadi Sheida
Published: February 2021

The pandemic of severe acute respiratory syndrome virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)
is a serious threat to global health. Since tuberculosis-COVID-19
co-infection is a great risk for tuberculosis patients. This is the
first report from Iran. Rapid screening of respiratory infections caused
by COVID-19, isolation, and treatment of tuberculosis patients is vital.
The single nucleotide polymorphisms rs11761556 and rs12706832 of the leptin gene are associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus in the Iraqi population
Authors: Musafer Karar , Huyop Fahrul , Ewadh Mufeed , Supriyanto Eko , Al-Thuwaini Tahreer , Al-Shuhaib Mohammed
Published: February 2021

This study was conducted to assess the potential association between leptin (LEP) gene polymorphisms and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in Iraqi patients. Genomic DNA was extracted from 120 diabetic subjects and 100 controls. Three specific PCR fragments were designed to flank three highly frequent single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)s within LEP, rs11761556, rs12706832 and rs2167270. The amplified loci were genotyped by PCR-single-strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) followed by Sanger sequencing for representative genotypes. Logistic regression analysis was performed to detect the association between the targeted genetic variants and T2DM. PCR-SSCP genotyping showed three banding patterns for all three targeted SNPs. Individuals with the AA genotype in both rs11761556 and rs12706832 SNPs showed significantly higher (P<0.05) body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), fasting blood glucose (FBG), hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), insulin, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and triglyceride (TG) values than those with other genotypes. Association analysis revealed that individuals with the A allele exhibited a greater risk of T2DM. Data of the present investigation indicated that both rs11761556 and rs12706832 SNPs exerted a noticeable association with T2DM. The study suggests implementing both rs11761556 and rs12706832 SNPs in the early detection of T2DM.
Chemical applicability of Sombor indices
Authors: Redzepovic Izudin
Published: February 2021

Recently, a novel class of degree-based topological molecular descriptors was proposed, the so-called Sombor indices. Within this study, the predictive and discriminative potentials of the Sombor index, the reduced Sombor index, and the average Sombor index were examined. All three topological molecular descriptors showed good predictive potential. The statistical data indicate that the reduced Sombor index preforms with a slightly better predictive potential. An external validation confirmed this finding. It was found that these degree-based indices exert modest discriminative potential, when tested on a large group of isomers.
Natural Protection From Type 1 Diabetes in NOD Mice Is Characterized by a Unique Pancreatic Islet Phenotype
Authors: Boldison Joanne , Thayer Terri C. , Davies Joanne , Wong F. Susan
Published: February 2021

The NOD mouse develops spontaneous type 1 diabetes, with some features of disease that are very similar to the human disease. However, a proportion of NOD mice are naturally protected from developing diabetes, and currently, studies characterizing this cohort are very limited. Here, using both immunofluorescence and multiparameter flow cytometry, we focus on the pancreatic islet morphology and immune infiltrate observed in naturally protected NOD mice. We show that naturally protected NOD mice are characterized by an increased frequency of insulin-containing, smaller-sized, pancreatic islets. Although mice remain diabetes free, florid immune infiltrate remains. However, this immune infiltrate is skewed toward a regulatory phenotype in both T- and B-cell compartments. Pancreatic islets have an increased frequency of IL-10–producing B cells and associated cell surface markers. Resident memory CD69+CD8+ T cells show a significant shift toward reduced CD103 expression, while CD4+ T cells have increased FoxP3+CTLA4+ expression. These data indicate that naturally protected NOD mice have a unique islet signature and provide new insight into regulatory mechanisms within pancreatic islets.
Quantifying Variation in Treatment Utilization for Type 2 Diabetes Across Five Major University of California Health Systems
Authors: Peterson Thomas A. , Fontil Valy , Koliwad Suneil K. , Patel Ayan , Butte Atul J.
Published: February 2021

OBJECTIVE

Using the newly created University of California (UC) Health Data Warehouse, we present the first study to analyze antihyperglycemic treatment utilization across the five large UC academic health systems (Davis, Irvine, Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This retrospective analysis used deidentified electronic health records (EHRs; 2014–2019) including 97,231 patients with type 2 diabetes from 1,003 UC-affiliated clinical settings. Significant differences between health systems and individual providers were identified using binomial probabilities with cohort matching.

RESULTS

Our analysis reveals statistically different treatment utilization patterns not only between health systems but also among individual providers within health systems. We identified 21 differences among health systems and 29 differences among individual providers within these health systems, with respect to treatment intensifications within existing guidelines on top of either metformin monotherapy or dual therapy with metformin and a sulfonylurea. Next, we identified variation for medications within the same class (e.g., glipizide vs. glyburide among sulfonylureas), with 33 differences among health systems and 86 among individual providers. Finally, we identified 2 health systems and 55 individual providers who more frequently used medications with known cardioprotective benefits for patients with high cardiovascular disease risk, but also 1 health system and 8 providers who prescribed such medications less frequently for these patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study used cohort-matching techniques to highlight real-world variation in care between health systems and individual providers. This demonstrates the power of EHRs to quantify differences in treatment utilization, a necessary step toward standardizing precision care for large populations.
Exploring Why People With Type 2 Diabetes Do or Do Not Persist With Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonist Therapy: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Polonsky William , Gamble Cory , Iyer Neeraj , Martin Mona , Hamersky Carol
Published: February 2021

OBJECTIVE

Despite the demonstrated benefits of glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist therapy, adherence and persistence with this therapy is often challenging. The purpose of this study was to expand current understanding of patients’ experiences, motivations, and challenges relevant to their persistence with GLP-1 receptor agonist therapy.

DESIGN AND METHODS

This noninterventional, cross-sectional, qualitative study used face-to-face interviews with 36 adults with type 2 diabetes who had been treated with at least one GLP-1 receptor agonist medication. Inclusion criteria were: ≥18 years of age, diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, and currently treated with a GLP-1 receptor agonist for ≥1 month at the time of screening (“continuers”) or discontinued use of a GLP-1 receptor agonist ≤1 year of screening but with a total ≥1 month of treatment (“discontinuers”). Interviews were conducted using a semi-structured qualitative interview guide that included open-ended questions and probes to obtain both spontaneous and prompted input from participants about their current and past treatment experiences with GLP-1 receptor agonist therapy.

RESULTS

Among continuers (n = 16), the most commonly identified facilitators supporting the decision to continue were the observations of improved glucose control (50%) and weight loss (55%). Among discontinuers (n = 20), the most commonly identified challenges leading to treatment discontinuation were side effects (55%) and high cost (50%). Continuers were more likely than discontinuers to receive clinically relevant information from their health care team, including facts about GLP-1 receptor agonist medications, likely treatment benefits, the importance of gradual dose titration, and the need to adjust diet after initiation.

CONCLUSION

Although cost is a major obstacle to treatment continuation, it can only be resolved through changes in ongoing reimbursement coverage and policies. However, many other obstacles could potentially be addressed (e.g., reducing side effects with gradual dosage titration and setting appropriate expectations regarding efficacy) through more collaborative patient-clinician interactions before initiating therapy.
Effect of solid and annular laser heat sources on thermal cycle and solid phase transformation in rail steel manufactured by laser directed energy deposition
Authors: Xia Zhixin , Chen Lei , Huang Shuhai , Xu Jiachao , Wang Liang , Zhang Shunhu
Published: February 2021

The service performance of U75V rail steel depends entirely on its laser-deposited microstructure, as coarse martensite has a damaging effect on wheel-rail contact behaviors. In this study, the formation mechanism of the microstructure in the rail steel was investigated based on simulated temperature fields in both solid and annular laser heat source models. U75V rail steel with pearlite was first fabricated via laser additive manufacturing with the annular laser beam and had a microstructure superior to that of the commercial U75V rail steel produced using the traditional slow-cooling heat treatment. This overcomes the long-perceived limitation that high-carbon steel can only form martensite through laser additive manufacturing. Active design of the grain size and the microstructure of U75V rail steel were proposed by controlling the cooling rate in two stages of solid phase transformation. The primary stage extended from the melting temperature to Ar1 and the secondary stage extended from Ar1 to the valley temperature. Granular pearlite in the annular laser beam-deposited sample shows considerably finer grains than the tempered martensite of the solid laser beam-deposited counterpart; therefore, the impact toughness of the sample can be increased by approximately 150%. The high cooling rate in the primary stage aids grain refinement in the annular laser beam-deposited sample, while the high valley temperature of the thermal cycle combined with the low cooling rate in the secondary stage leads to the formation of pearlite, instead of twin martensite.
Obesity Risk Assessment Concept
Authors: Bhaskar Aparna Govil
Published: February 2021

The obesity risk assessment concept is developed after considering the increased risk of obesity and the concomitant conditions arising due to obesity. The treatment of obesity is very crucial and proper awareness and diagnosis play the important role in treating obesity. WHO declared BMI as a measure of obesity; however BMI and waist circumference as screening tools to estimate obesity and related potential risk have their shortcomings. These parameters lack sensitivity and specificity when applied to individuals to complete risk assessment related to obesity. Edmonton Obesity Staging System (EOSS) is a clinical staging system that effectively captures the severity of obesity and its factors complicating the management. However, EOSS and other such clinical staging systems are not patient-oriented and are difficult to understand for a layperson. The available staging systems do not classify obesity on the basis of the presence and severity of risk factors, comorbidities, and functional limitations. Hence, we developed an obesity risk assessment scale, which is based on EOSS; but, is patient-oriented and allows patients to understand their level of obesity, the risks associated with it and provides the clinical expertise which will guide them to appropriate obesity management. As it is a novel concept, the concept validation is performed along with a Delphi round where the questionnaire and weightage for each respective question is finalized. The strengths of this obesity risk assessment scale include the simple nature of questions, scoring system, patient-facing tool, and treatment guidance. Future studies are required to carry out the clinical efficacy, reliability, and validity of this method.
Prevalence of Misconceptions about Diabetes and their Association with Metabolic and Psychological Variables
Authors: García-Ulloa Ana Cristina
Published: February 2021

Objective: To evaluate misconceptions about diabetes in people who attend the first visit at the CAIPaDi program, as well as its association with metabolic and psychological variables at short and long term. Methods and Analysis: The frequency of misconceptions in diabetes was determined through a true/false survey. We compared sociodemographic, metabolic and psychological variables between people with and without misconceptions at baseline, at 3 months and 1 year after a multidisciplinary educational program. Results: 902 participants answered the survey, with an age of 50 ±10 years old, 54.3% were women, with 1 (0-5) years living with type 2 diabetes. At baseline, 53% of the participants had at least 1 misconception, being more frequent in women (p=0.045) and in population with lower educational level (p<0.001). The most common were "emotional stress and fright cause diabetes" (34.4%), "in the control of my diabetes only matters glucose management" (15.2%) and "women with diabetes should not get pregnant" (11.8%). At basal, patients with misconceptions had higher HbA1c (9.0 ± 2.6 vs 8.4 ± 2.4, p <0.001), lower quality of life (DQOL 95.2 ± 26.2 vs 90.2 ± 23.6, p = 0.03), more problematic areas in diabetes (41.2 [21.2-58.4] vs 35 [17.5-52.6], p = 0.01), more depression (42.6% vs 32.9%, p = 0.003) and anxiety (58.6% vs 40.6%, p = 0.001) compared to patients without misconceptions. With the exception of HbA1c (6.6 ± 1 vs 6.4 ± 0.8, p = 0.025 at 1 year), no differences were observed in the annual visits. Conclusion: We found a high prevalence of people with misconceptions in diabetes. This group had worst glycaemic control, higher scores in PAID questionnaire, lower quality of life and more depression and anxiety symptoms. Participants with misconceptions had lower educational level. An educative program an educational assistance program can minimize differences by eradicating misconceptions.
Comparison of Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes between Outpatients and Hospitalized Patients with Diabetes and COVID-19
Authors: García-Ulloa Ana Cristina
Published: February 2021

Background: Patients with diabetes and COVID-19 have higher rates of complications. Objective: To describe and identify the characteristics and outcomes in patients with diabetes and COVID-19. Methods: From March to June 2020, we included patients with diabetes and probable COVID-19 infection. We compared parameters between outpatients and hospitalized patients. A second analysis compared patients who died vs those who survived. Results: 243 patients, 37.6% women, with 56 ±12 years, and BMI 29.6 ±5.3 kg/m2 were included. Risk factors for hospitalization were oximetry <90% (HR 2.29, 95%CI 1.14-4.58) and mean blood pressure (MBP) <80 mmHg (HR 1.75, 95%CI 1.09-2.81). Age (HR 0.93, 95%CI 0.89-0.97), respiratory rate (RR) (HR 1.05, 95%CI 1.00-1.10) and PaFiO2 (HR 0.99, 95%CI: 0.98-1.00) predicted admission to critical areas. Risk factors for mortality were age ≥65 years (HR 2.88, 95%CI 1.61-5.17), RR ≥25 bpm (HR 3.86, 95%CI 1.33-11.12), heart rate (HR 1.82, 95%CI 0.96-3.42), PaFiO2 <100 (HR 3.70, 95%CI 1.06-6.65) and glucose ≥150 mg/dl (HR 2.57, 95%CI 1.05-6.25). Length of hospitalization was 8.5 (6-14) and 6 (2-10) days for discharged and deceased patients (p=0.003), respectively. Conclusion: Oximetry <90% and MBP <80 mmHg were associated with hospitalization requirement. Glucose concentration >150 mg/dl significantly predicted mortality.
JAMES JOYCE’S ARABY IN INTERARTS PERSPECTIVE OF CHINESE CLASSICAL ART THEORIES
Authors: Min Hu
Published: February 2021

This paper explores the states of Chinese classical art theories in James Joyce’s Araby, revealing the idea resonance beyond visual and language media. The research method is Ekphrasis, a burgeoning interdisciplinary humanity in the 90s of the 20th century, providing opportunities for interarts researches, not only pictures in the poetry or the poetry in pictures, but multidimensional appreciation methods. James Joyce’s Araby is analyzed in this paper by enlightenment from calligraphy theories of Cai Yong, an official and scholar of the Eastern Han dynasty, to create interarts appreciation.
INNOVATION EFFECT THROUGH RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT ON ECONOMIC GROWTH IN 35 OECD COUNTRIES
Authors: Moustapha Maman Ali M. , Yu Qian
Published: February 2021

This paper analyzes the effect of research and development (R&D) expenditures on economic growth in the Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries over the period 2000-2016. This study conducts an empirical analysis using a multiple regression model. The main findings confirm that an increase in research and development expenditure by 1% would generate an increase of real GDP growth rate to 2.83 %. The implication emerging from this study is that government and institutions need to increase investment in R&D expenditures to fulfill inclusive economic growth perspective.
CONSUMO DE ÁGUA SETORIAL NO SISTEMA INTER-REGIONAL DE INSUMO-PRODUTO PARANÁ-RESTANTE DO BRASIL
Authors: Brene Paulo Rogério Alves , Sesso Filho Umberto Antonio , Rangel Ronaldo Raemy , Sesso Patrícia Pompermayer , Zapparoli Irene Domenes
Published: February 2021

The objective of the study is to estimate the demand for water from the economic sectors of the state of Paraná and to decompose the results into regional and interregional effects using the interregional input-product system Paraná-Brazil. The methodology is based on the construction of the matrix based on the works of Guilhoto and Sesso filho (2005), Guilhoto and Sesso Filho (2010) and Guilhoto et al. (2010). The water vector was estimated based on Brene et al. (2018). The results show that the sectors with the highest demand for water were Agriculture, Steel and Food Industry. For one million reais of final sector demand, the sectors demand 8.1, respectively; 4.2 and 3.4 billion cubic meters of water per year in full effect (regional and interregional). The sector that presented the highest water multiplier value is the Food Industry, the results showed that for each cubic meter of water used in this sector it is necessary that its production chain uses 322.8 cubic meters of this good (regional and interregional effect). The study advances in relation to the literature with the analysis of the demand for water in the productive chain of the sectors in an analysis of general equipoise.
STRATEGY, PROCESSES, CULTURE, AND FUNDING THE GROUNDWORK FOR SUSTAINABLE INNOVATION
Authors: Proença Joaquim José Carvalho
Published: February 2021

What does it take for organizations to innovate? Although, there several classifications that define Innovation Management they can be grouped into four categories: Strategy, Processes, Culture, and Funding. While strategy focus on the idea of organizations being proactive to fast adapt to changes and exploit opportunities, processes are determinant for the definition of the problems, validate and test solutions that fit the market. Meanwhile, culture is being necessary to leverage innovation and introduce practices for knowledge management and continuous innovation. The research focused on why and how, bringing relevance to the context of the organizations, either social or technological, experimental methods, partner value, and internal mechanisms for innovation orientation. The goal is to provide an integral vision and balanced practical approach for the development of products, services, business model redesign in a sustainable manner. It is an attempt to manage the uncertainty factor and at the same time identify and generate opportunities through the ability to intervene proactively in the market with stakeholders and technical systems. In this way, it overcomes the management problem-solution shorter cycle, within a micro constructivist approach of small groups, of mentoring programs.
ASPECTOS CRITICOS E JURIDICOS DO DANO PSIQUICO E A NEUROCIÊNCIA
Authors: Leite dos Santos Maria Celeste Cordeiro , Araujo Marilene
Published: February 2021

Resumo: O presente artigo tem como objetivo a reanálise do dano psíquico como um dano à saúde e suas consequências, no âmbito jurídico penal e da tutela da saúde, rearticulado com os novos desafios trazidos pela Neurociência. Para trilhar o caminho, os danos psíquicos são cuidadosamente analisados como uma espécie autônoma de dano moral, consistindo, os danos psíquicos em uma lesão das faculdades mentais e integrando-se na esfera jurídica de proteção constitucional da saúde. O dano à saúde compreende o dano psíquico, devendo ser objetivamente e cientificamente comprovado. Em uma segunda parte do trabalho, é restabelecido um ponto de intersecção entre os danos psíquicos e a neurociência, objetivando a tutela do direito à saúde psíquica, necessitando, para tanto, da criação de novos direitos (direito à privacidade mental e direito à integridade mental) e da efetivação das prescrições legais existentes. Na sistemática penal brasileira, o dano psíquico deve ser equiparado às lesões corporais graves ou gravíssimas, de acordo com o disposto no artigo 129, do Código Penal.
O Direito Penal e o liberalismo: considerações a respeito do papel do Direito Penal em um estado liberal
Authors: Oliveira Vivian Brenner de
Published: February 2021

O presente artigo trata da função que o Direito Penal deve ter em um estado liberal e tem o objetivo de defender que a função primordial do Direito Penal é a proteção de bens jurídicos, individuais ou coletivos, considerados essenciais em um ordenamento jurídico. Ao longo do texto, será feita uma análise a respeito da evolução do conceito de bem jurídico ao longo do desenvolvimento da teoria do crime. Serão fixados, ainda, alguns critérios para que o legislador escolha os bens jurídicos que devem ser protegidos pelo Direito Penal, já que, por ser a ultima ratio, este deve eleger apenas alguns bens jurídicos como objeto de proteção.
Prisão preventiva: Um olhar aos princípios e as concepções penais no Brasil
Authors: Galvan Fernanda , Régis Jonathan Cardoso , Ferreira Alexandre Couto
Published: February 2021

O presente artigo científico tem como objetivo esclarecer o caráter processual penal na federação brasileira, em um olhar abrangente à concepção legal, conforme o consenso sob a égide do código processual da década de quarenta. E mais, a regulamentação fundamentada e requisitada dos pressupostos penais no regulamento legitimado no Brasil. O método utilizado na elaboração desse artigo científico foi através de pesquisa bibliográfica, de modo indutivo e o procedimento monográfico. Nesta circunstância, estabelecer, também, os indícios que norteiam a área penal, bem como, o caráter processual penal aos estrangeiros. As explanações foram abordadas de modo formal, procurando evidenciar a fundamentação por meio de pressupostos legais e doutrinas em relação a aplicabilidade, deste, aos limites impostos na esfera brasileira. Como conclusão, apurou-se que a duração processual penal está distante do mecanismo característico da democracia e, depende de uma consciência jurídica em realizar uma reforma legislativa, considerando o panorama das prisões cautelares.
CORTE CONSTITUCIONAL FEDERAL: O AUTÊNTICO PODER MODERADOR?
Authors: Beneton Marco Antonio Hatem
Published: February 2021

O presente artigo visa afastar tentativas de eleger o art. 142 da CF como um mediador, um Poder Moderador no Brasil e sugere a criação de uma Corte Constitucional Federal para arbitrar e dirimir os conflitos jurídico-políticos entre os Poderes constituídos.
INDICATIVOS OU MANDADOS CONSTITUCIONAIS DE CRIMINALIZAÇÃO
Authors: Alves de Lima Ricardo , Brito Mendonça Dias Júnior Eteócles
Published: February 2021

O objetivo do presente estudo é demonstrar o atual cenário jurídico penal quanto ao entendimento das teorias que constituem fundamento para a salvaguarda de interesses e valores constitucionais através da força do direito penal, e a escolha de bens jurídicos merecedores de proteção (teoria do bem jurídico-penal), dentro de uma ordem axiológica constitucional que limita a atuação do Estado, e ao mesmo tempo indica pela necessidade de criminalização de novas condutas, ou de se equilibrar as punições em respeito aos princípios constitucionais, especialmente da proporcionalidade, em suas diversas vertentes, e do princípio da vedação do excesso. Na pesquisa foi utilizado o método dedutivo através da pesquisa bibliográfica da doutrina nacional e internacional, realizando uma análise dos conceitos e das teorias que nascem dentro de uma amplitude supranacional, e vêm sendo transpostas substancialmente para as constituições de diversos países, direcionando a atuação do legislador, bem como, influenciando as tomadas de decisões e soluções de conflitos pelo Poder Judiciário, na salvaguarda de interesses comuns, dos direitos e das garantias fundamentais e dos direitos humanos. Nesta direção apresenta-se o entendimento final pela existência de mandados constitucionais de criminalização, e a inexistência de instrumentos jurídicos hábeis para o controle, sobretudo, a correção de omissões legislativas quanto à criminalização de bens jurídicos necessários de proteção.
Penggunaan Aplikasi Blynk untuk Sistem Monitoring dan Kontrol Jarak Jauh pada Sistem Kompos Pintar berbasis IoT
Authors: Syukhron Imam
Published: February 2021

In the composting process, there are several aspects that need to be considered, namely temperature, humidity, pH content, and methane gas content in the compost. So that users can still monitor the condition of the compost during the composting process even though it is far from the compost location, this research provides an alternative solution to overcome this problem. The tool made in this study combines the capabilities of the Wemos D1 R1 as a data acquisition system equipped with a wifi module for sending data via the internet network, dht 22 sensor, pH sensor, and mq 4 sensor to determine the methane gas content in compost, and a special Android application blynk. as a monitoring aid. Wemos D1 R1 is also connected to a relay to regulate the ignition of a water pump or EM4 solution and two ac motors. Based on the tests conducted, it was found that each module can work properly according to its function and the results displayed in the Blynk application with the serial monitor are not much different and also at a distance of 25 m the device can still be controlled using the Blynk application even though there is a delay.
Evaluation of Diethyl Ether (DEE) as a Renewable Transport Fuel in Sudan
Authors: Karar Mohamed Yagoub Alkhalil , Mustafa Hamid M. , Hago Eltjani EL.
Published: February 2021

This study was conducted to investigate physicochemical properties, copper corrosion test and test the diesel engine performance of diethyl ether diesel blend fuel. With aid of distillation characteristic, the blends percentage were selected as DEE5%, DEE10, DEE15 and DEE20%. Stabinger Viscometer apparatus was used to determine the Kinematic viscosities, Digital Density Analyzer was used to determine the densities. ASTM D 4737 – 03 Test Method are used to determined calculated Cetane index. Copper strip corrosion device was used to determine corrosiveness of copper from diesel and DEE diesel blends. A single cylinder, four stroke diesel engines, mounted on a moving frame was used to conduct the engine test. From the study result we found that that blends physicochemical properties improved with diethyl ether ratio increased in the blends. While Cetane Index increased with diethyl ether ratio increased. At the higher load, the best result of Break thermal efficiency found at DEE10%, where at the low load, the best mechanical efficiency found at DEE5%, DEE15% and DEE20 and at the higher load, the best mechanical efficiency found at DEE20%, on other hand at the low load, the best specific fuel consumption found at DEE15%, While at the higher load the best specific fuel consumption found at DEE10%. Due to availability of diethyl ether in Sudan, diethyl ether can be used up to 10% in diesel blend with no further changed in diesel engine design, and this can be contributed to overcome the diesel fuel crisis in Sudan, but further information and studies are needed for diethyl ether transportation and blending facilities, beside study the effect the addition of diethyl ether on diesel price.
Recent Advances in Coherent Anti-Stokes Raman Scattering of Carbon Dioxide for Combustion Diagnostic. (Article Review)
Authors: Misoi Henry , Tanui Josephat , Wanjiru Patrick
Published: February 2021

The rising climatic degradation due to the emission of greenhouse gases is leading to emergence of clean combustion technology, oxy-fuel combustion to minimize the emissions of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere in combustion. Nitrogen molecules are used as probe molecule in laser-based combustion diagnostic in nitrogen rich air combustion. However, with the introduction of oxy-fuel combustion, carbon dioxide becomes the dominant molecule and has to be considered as probe molecule in combustion diagnostic. A detailed knowledge about thermodynamic properties: temperature, pressure and species concentration are necessary in optimization of combustion and minimizing the emission into the atmosphere. The non-intrusive spectroscopic measurement techniques are the most accurate methods to determine the combustion properties. The purpose of this review is to provide a brief overview of the recent advances made in application of coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering of carbon dioxide for development of models for thermometry. However, there is no sufficient empirical data of time-domain S-branch Raman linewidth dependence on temperature that has been determined for pure-rotational coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering of carbon dioxide and its mixtures for development of models for thermometry.
Strengthening Prestressed Concrete Bridge Girders and Building Beams with Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer Sheets
Authors: Hussein Herish A. , Razzaq Zia
Published: February 2021

The effect of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) retrofitting and concrete type on the flexural strength of prestressed concrete I-section girders used in bridges and beams in buildings is investigated. Non-linear moment-curvature relationships are predicted using an iterative algorithm for both non-retrofitted and CFRP-retrofitted prestressed concrete girder and beam cross-sections with various concrete types. Two different CFRP-retrofitting schemes are analyzed for comparing their effectiveness. It is found that although non-retrofitted beam section exhibits greater ductility, the use of CFRP retrofitting in both tension and compression regions simultaneously results in a significant increase in flexural strength. It is also found that the higher the ultimate concrete strength, the higher is the influence of CFRP-retrofitting on increasing flexural strength.
Assessing the Correlation between Brick Properties and Firing Hours of Locally Produced Clay-burnt Bricks in Taraba State, Nigeria
Authors: Bassah E. J , Joshua W. K.
Published: February 2021

The use of burnt-clay bricks is increasing in rural areas because of its availability and low cost. However, the burning of bricks locally at unknown temperatures will likely result in the production of bricks that are unfit for construction purposes. The study assesses the minimum number of days bricks require to attain the minimum stipulated standards for compressive strength and water absorption. The results obtained were compared to the NIS 87: 2000 standards to assess their conformity. From the study results, the mean compressive strength of bricks (1.576 N/mm², 2.306 N/mm², 3.634 N/mm²) at 48, 72 and 96 hours of firing fails to attain the target value of 5N/mm² as stipulated by the NIS building code. However, the mean compressive strength after 120 hours (5.386 N/mm²) attains the stipulated unit value. The water absorption rate displayed similar findings with mean values of 37.12%, 34.2%, 28.88% failing to conform with the stipulated 20% standards. However, the mean of water absorption after 120 hours (21.02%) has no significant difference and hence conforms to the stipulated value. This therefore means that bricks should be burnt far beyond the 120 hours in order to safely conform to 5N/mm² and 20% compressive strength and water absorption respectively.