bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transposon mutagenesis identifies cooperating genetic drivers during keratinocyte transformation and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma progression
Authors: Aiderus Aziz , Newberg Justin Y. , Guzman-Rojas Liliana , Contreras-Sandoval Ana M. , Meshey Amanda L. , Jones Devin J. , Amaya-Manzanares Felipe , Rangel Roberto , Ward Jerrold M. , Lee Song-Choon , Ban Kenneth Hon-Kim , Rogers Keith , Rogers Susan M. , Selvanesan Luxmanan , McNoe Leslie A. , Copeland Neal G. , Jenkins Nancy A. , Tsai Kenneth Y. , Black Michael A. , Mann Karen M. , Mann Michael B.
Published: August 2021

The systematic identification of genetic events driving cellular transformation and tumor progression in the absence of a highly recurrent oncogenic driver mutation is a challenge in cutaneous oncology. In cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cuSCC), the high UV-induced mutational burden poses a hurdle to achieve a complete molecular landscape of this disease. Here, we utilized the Sleeping Beauty transposon mutagenesis system to statistically define drivers of keratinocyte transformation and cuSCC progression in vivo in the absence of UV-IR, and identified both known tumor suppressor genes and novel oncogenic drivers of cuSCC. Functional analysis confirms an oncogenic role for the ZMIZ genes, and tumor suppressive roles for KMT2C, CREBBP and NCOA2, in the initiation or progression of human cuSCC. Taken together, our in vivo screen demonstrates an extremely heterogeneous genetic landscape of cuSCC initiation and progression, which can be harnessed to better understand skin oncogenic etiology and prioritize therapeutic candidates.
Rabies epidemiology, prevention and control in Nigeria: Scoping progress towards elimination
Authors: Mshelbwala Philip P. , Weese J. Scott , Sanni-Adeniyi Olufunmilayo A. , Chakma Shovon , Okeme Stephen S. , Mamun Abdullah A. , Rupprecht Charles E. , Magalhaes R. J. Soares
Published: August 2021

Background

Human rabies remains a significant public health problem in Africa with outbreaks reported in most countries. In Nigeria–the most populous country in Africa–rabies causes a significant public health burden partly due to perennial obstacles to implementing a national prevention and control program.

Methods

We conducted a scoping review using standard Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to identify and select published articles from Nigeria during 1978–2020 reporting on rabies virus infections (human, canine, livestock, and wildlife), canine bites, knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) surveys on rabies and canine ecology studies. We extracted information on study location, year and additional details of each study such as rabies prevalence, general characteristics of offending dogs, dog vaccination status and health-seeking behaviours.

Findings

Between 1978 and 2020, 90 published articles met our inclusion criteria. The prevalence of rabies virus antigen detection varied between 3% and 28%, with more studies in the north. Most bites were unprovoked from dog bite studies (36.4%-97%), by dogs with low vaccination rates (12–38%). A more significant proportion of biting dogs were owned (31–90%). Laboratory confirmation for biting was available for only a small proportion of studies (6%; n = 2/32). Of the dogs surveyed during ecology studies, indigenous dogs accounted for the majority (62–98%), used mostly for security purposes (52–98%), with the vaccination rate between 15% and 38% in most states. Studies conducted in areas distant from rabies diagnostic facilities accounted for more human rabies cases and fewer dog rabies cases.

Conclusion

Significant improvements are necessary to achieve the elimination of human rabies mediated via dogs by 2030.
Vitamin d and leishmaniasis: Neither seasonal nor risk factor in canine host but potential adjuvant treatment through cbd103 expression
Authors: Martori Clara , Velez Rita , Gállego Montserrat , Mesa Ignacio , Ferreira Rui , Alberola Jordi , Rodríguez-Cortés Alhelí
Published: August 2021

Vitamin D (VitD) deficiency has been shown to be a risk factor for a plethora of disorders. We have shown that dogs with clinical leishmaniasis presented lower VitD serum levels than non-infected dogs, and even lower than those with asymptomatic infection. However, if VitD deficiency is a risk factor to develop clinical leishmaniasis remains to be answered. It is also unknown if VitD participates in Leishmania control. First, we retrospectively analysed VitD concentration in serum samples from 36 healthy dogs collected in different periods of the year concluding that there isn’t a seasonal variation of this vitamin in dogs. We also included 9 dogs with clinical leishmaniasis and 10 non-infected healthy dogs, in which we measured VitD levels at the beginning of the study, when all dogs were negative for serology and qPCR, and 1 year later. Whereas non-infected dogs showed no change in VitD levels along the study, those developing clinical leishmaniasis showed a significant VitD reduction at the end of the study (35%). When we compared VitD concentration between the two groups at the beginning of the study, no differences were detected (43.6 (38–59) ng/mL, P = 0.962). Furthermore, an in vitro model using a canine macrophage cell line proved that adding active VitD leads to a significant reduction in L. infantum load (31.4%). Analyzing expression of genes related to VitD pathway on primary canine monocytes, we showed that CBD103 expression was significantly enhanced after 1,25(OH)2D addition. Our results show that VitD concentration is neither seasonal nor a risk factor for developing canine leishmaniasis, but it diminishes with the onset of clinical disease suggesting a role in parasitic control. Our in vitro results corroborate this hypothesis and point out that VitD regulates infection through CBD103 expression. These results open the possibility for studies testing VitD as an adjuvant in leishmaniasis therapy.
Finite-time stabilization and H∞ control of Port-controlled Hamiltonian systems with disturbances and saturation
Authors: Fu Baozeng , Wang Qingzhi , Li Ping
Published: August 2021

The finite-time stabilization and finite-timeH∞control problems of Port-controlled Hamiltonian (PCH) systems with disturbances and input saturation (IS) are studied in this paper. First, by designing an appropriate output feedback, a strictly dissipative PCH system is obtained and finite-time stabilization result for nominal system is given. Second, with the help of the Hamilton function method and truncation inequality technique, a novel output feedback controller is developed to make the PCH system finite-time stable when IS occurs. Further, a finite-timeH∞controller is designed to attenuate disturbances for PCH systems with IS, and sufficient conditions are presented. Finally, a numerical example and a circuit example are given to reveal the feasibility of the obtained theoretical results.
Predicting hemorrhagic transformation after large vessel occlusion stroke in the era of mechanical thrombectomy
Authors: Iwamoto Takanori , Kitano Takaya , Oyama Naoki , Yagita Yoshiki
Published: August 2021

Serum biomarkers are associated with hemorrhagic transformation and brain edema after cerebral infarction. However, whether serum biomarkers predict hemorrhagic transformation in large vessel occlusion stroke even after mechanical thrombectomy, which has become widely used, remains uncertain. In this prospective study, we enrolled patients with large vessel occlusion stroke in the anterior circulation. We analyzed 91 patients with serum samples obtained on admission. The levels of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), amyloid precursor protein (APP) 770, endothelin-1, S100B, and claudin-5 were measured. We examined the association between serum biomarkers and hemorrhagic transformation within one week. Fifty-four patients underwent mechanical thrombectomy, and 17 patients developed relevant hemorrhagic transformation (rHT, defined as hemorrhagic changes ≥ hemorrhagic infarction type 2). Neither MMP-9 (no rHT: 46 ± 48 vs. rHT: 15 ± 4 ng/mL, P = 0.30), APP770 (80 ± 31 vs. 85 ± 8 ng/mL, P = 0.53), endothelin-1 (7.0 ± 25.7 vs. 2.0 ± 2.1 pg/mL, P = 0.42), S100B (13 ± 42 vs. 12 ± 15 pg/mL, P = 0.97), nor claudin-5 (1.7 ± 2.3 vs. 1.9 ± 1.5 ng/mL, P = 0.68) levels on admission were associated with subsequent rHT. When limited to patients who underwent mechanical thrombectomy, the level of claudin-5 was higher in patients with rHT than in those without (1.2 ± 1.0 vs. 2.1 ± 1.7 ng/mL, P = 0.0181). APP770 levels were marginally higher in patients with a midline shift ≥ 5 mm than in those without (79 ± 29 vs. 97 ± 41 ng/mL, P = 0.084). The predictive role of serum biomarkers has to be reexamined in the mechanical thrombectomy era because some previously reported serum biomarkers may not predict hemorrhagic transformation, whereas the level of APP770 may be useful for predicting brain edema.
Host GRXC6 restricts Tomato yellow leaf curl virus infection by inhibiting the nuclear export of the V2 protein
Authors: Zhao Wenhao , Zhou Yijun , Zhou Xueping , Wang Xiaofeng , Ji Yinghua
Published: August 2021

Geminiviruses cause serious symptoms and devastating losses in crop plants. With a circular, single-stranded DNA genome, geminiviruses multiply their genomic DNA in the nucleus, requiring the nuclear shuttling of viral proteins and viral genomic DNAs. Many host factors, acting as proviral or antiviral factors, play key roles in geminivirus infections. Here, we report the roles of a tomato glutaredoxin (GRX), SlGRXC6, in the infection ofTomato yellow leaf curl virus(TYLCV), a single-component geminivirus. The V2 protein of TYLCV specifically and preferentially interacts with SlGRXC6 among the 55-member tomato GRX family that are broadly involved in oxidative stress responses, plant development, and pathogen responses. We show that overexpressed SlGRXC6 increases the nuclear accumulation of V2 by inhibiting its nuclear export and, in turn, inhibits trafficking of the V1 protein and viral genomic DNA. Conversely, the silenced expression of SlGRXC6 leads to an enhanced susceptibility to TYLCV. SlGRXC6 is also involved in symptom development as we observed a positive correlation where overexpression of SlGRXC6 promotes while knockdown of SlGRXC6 expression inhibits plant growth. We further showed that SlGRXC6 works with SlNTRC80, a tomato NADPH-dependent thioredoxin reductase, to regulate plant growth. V2 didn’t interact with SlNTRC80 but competed with SlNTR80 for binding to SlGRXC6, suggesting that the V2-disrupted SlGRXC6-SlNTRC80 interaction is partially responsible for the virus-caused symptoms. These results suggest that SlGRXC6 functions as a host restriction factor that inhibits the nuclear trafficking of viral components and point out a new way to control TYLCV infection by targeting the V2-SlGRXC6 interaction.
Integrative multi-omics profiling reveals cAMP-independent mechanisms regulating hyphal morphogenesis in Candida albicans
Authors: Min Kyunghun , Jannace Thomas F. , Si Haoyu , Veeramah Krishna R. , Haley John D. , Konopka James B.
Published: August 2021

Microbial pathogens grow in a wide range of different morphologies that provide distinct advantages for virulence. In the fungal pathogen Candida albicans, adenylyl cyclase (Cyr1) is thought to be a master regulator of the switch to invasive hyphal morphogenesis and biofilm formation. However, faster growing cyr1Δ/Δ pseudorevertant (PR) mutants were identified that form hyphae in the absence of cAMP. Isolation of additional PR mutants revealed that their improved growth was due to loss of one copy of BCY1, the negative regulatory subunit of protein kinase A (PKA) from the left arm of chromosome 2. Furthermore, hyphal morphogenesis was improved in some of PR mutants by multigenic haploinsufficiency resulting from loss of large regions of the left arm of chromosome 2, including global transcriptional regulators. Interestingly, hyphal-associated genes were also induced in a manner that was independent of cAMP. This indicates that basal protein kinase A activity is an important prerequisite to induce hyphae, but activation of adenylyl cyclase is not needed. Instead, phosphoproteomic analysis indicated that the Cdc28 cyclin-dependent kinase and the casein kinase 1 family member Yck2 play key roles in promoting polarized growth. In addition, integrating transcriptomic and proteomic data reveals hyphal stimuli induce increased production of key transcription factors that contribute to polarized morphogenesis.
Immunodiagnosis of cattle fascioliasis using a 27 kDa Fasciola gigantica antigen
Authors: Saadh Mohamed J. , Tanash Samer A. , Almaaytah Ammar M. , Sa'adeh Issam J. , Aldalaen Saed M. , Al-Hamaideh Khawla D.
Published: August 2021

Background and Aim: Diagnosis of fascioliasis depends on clinical symptoms and routine laboratory tests. Recently, antibodies and circulating antigens of Fasciola were used for detecting active infections. Therefore, this study aimed to identify Fasciola gigantica antigens in the sera of infected cattle using Western blotting and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for an accurate diagnosis of cattle infected with F. gigantica.

Materials and Methods: Serum samples were obtained from 108, 23, and 19 cattle infected with Fasciola gigantica, Paramphistomum cervi, and Strongylids, respectively, including 57 non-infected cattle that were used as healthy cattle for the study. Western blotting and ELISA were then used to detect circulating Fasciola antigens at 27 kDa.

Results: The target epitope was detected in an F. gigantica adult-worm antigen preparation, excretory/secretory products, and serum from cattle infected with F. gigantica. However, it was absent in sera from P. cervi, Strongylids, and healthy cattle. The purified 27 kDa F. gigantica (FPA-27) antigen was also detected in cattle serum using ELISA with high degrees of sensitivity and specificity (94% and 82%, respectively), and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.89 with a highly significant correlation of p<0.0001.

Conclusion: The FPA-27 is proposed to be a promising candidate for the serodiagnosis of fascioliasis in cattle.
O uso do pavimento para geração de energia e desenvolvimento sustentável de cidades inteligentes
Authors: Mota Bruno Cavalcante , Barroso Suelly Helena de Araújo
Published: August 2021

O pavimento rodoviário possibilita a obtenção de energia elétrica por meio da transformação da energia mecânica transmitida pelos veículos à sua estrutura. Nesse contexto, este artigo foi desenvolvido com o objetivo de investigar o pavimento como mecanismo de geração de energia, por meio da piezoeletricidade, para contribuir na redução do impacto ambiental relativo às energias. Foram realizadas simulações multifísicas em sete geometrias de células piezoelétricas, em caráter estacionário, e em um protótipo com arranjo de quatro células da que apresentou melhores resultados na etapa anterior, em caráter dinâmico. Dessa forma, verificou-se que a espessura da célula é a propriedade geométrica que mais influencia no potencial elétrico gerado. A partir do protótipo proposto seria capaz de serem gerados 306,37 MW de potência elétrica por ano. Além disso, sugere-se que trechos de rodovias interestaduais, com alta velocidade e volume de tráfego, e vias expressas seriam bons candidatos para aplicação do sistema piezoelétrico.
Toll-like receptors as a part of osteoarthritis pathophysiology: anti-inflammatory, analgesic and neuroprotective effects
Authors: Torshin I. Yu. , Gromova O. A. , Lila A. M. , Alekseeva L. I. , Taskina E. A.
Published: August 2021

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) act as receptors for bacterial lipopolysaccharides (LPS) and participate in innate immunity. Excessive TLRs activity leads to chronic inflammation and the development of several comorbid pathologies, including osteoarthritis (OA). Computer analysis of 52,312 publications devoted to TLRs was made to systematically describe the mechanisms of biological action of TLRs and their influence on the OA pathophysiology. In addition, we identified the mechanisms by which slow-acting drugs based on standardized forms of chondroitin sulfate (CS), which have symptom-modifying and structural-modifying effects, can decrease TLRs activity and be used in the treatment of OA. Our conclusions are supported by the results of TLRs chemoreactom analysis, as well as by clinical and experimental data.
Pharmacodynamic sodium channel blockers-induced seizure aggravation in patients with newly diagnosed focal epilepsy
Authors: Karlov V. A. , Vlasov P. N. , Azhigova A. M. , Kozhokaru A. B. , Orlova A. S.
Published: August 2021

Pharmacodynamic aggravation (PA) is an unpredictable increase in the frequency, the severity of existing seizures, and/or development of new seizure types despite rational (adequate for seizure type and epilepsy form) antiepileptic drug (AED) prescription. Many mechanisms and predictors of its development are still poorly understood.

Objective: to analyze PA of seizures in patients with newly diagnosed focal epilepsy receiving monotherapy with sodium channel blockers with epileptiform activity index (EAI) assessment.

Patients and methods. We enrolled 201 patients with newly diagnosed focal epilepsy aged 16—81 years. In twelve months, patients had five follow-up visits. At each visit, treatment tolerability and efficacy were assessed, taking into account changes in the type, severity, and frequency of seizures. Additionally, at each visit, video-electroencephalographic monitoring was performed with EAI assessment. PA of seizures occurred in patients on oxcarbazepine, carbamazepine, and lacosamide therapy.

Results and discussion. Five patients with PA of seizures had increased total EAI and EAI before sleep at the second follow-up visit after sodium channel blockers prescription. Electroencephalographic correlates of PA occurred earlier than clinical manifestations. In patients with PA, the absolute increase in EAI was minimal in patients receiving oxcarbazepine, and lacosamide therapy was associated with a minimal relative increase in EAI. At the end of the follow-up, total EAI decreased by 54—80% relative to its initial value in all five patients. The difference in the total index during the first and last visits was statistically significant.

Conclusion. Due to the low level of knowledge about PA of seizures, it seems necessary to consider its possibility in all cases of increased frequency, aggravation, or change in the type of seizures after the AED treatment initiation or an increase in its dose. It is also possible to use changes in total EAI and EAI before sleep as an early objective marker of PA in adults with focal epilepsy.
Rehabilitation of patients after lumbar microdiscectomy
Authors: Prokopovich V. S. , Parfenov V. A.
Published: August 2021

Objective: to investigate movement-based therapy (kinesitherapy) effectiveness in the rehabilitation of patients after lumbar microdiscectomy.

Patients and methods. We enrolled 90 patients (33 men and 57 women, mean age — 59.78±12.0 years) after lumbar microdiscectomy due to the ineffectiveness of conservative management of discogenic lumbosacral radiculopathy. One-half of the participants (45 patients: 15 men and 30 women, mean age — 60.24±12.0 years) underwent kinesitherapy under the supervision of a physician; in other 45 patients (18 men and 27 women, mean age — 59.33±11.0 years), kinesitherapy was not included in the radiculopathy treatment protocol. We assessed pain intensity with visual analogue scale (VAS) and disability using the Roland-Morris scale (RMS) before surgery, ten days after the surgery, and 1, 3, and 6 months after surgery.

Results and discussion. We observed a significant decrease in pain intensity - up to 4 points on the VAS, and an improvement in activities of daily living up to 10 points on the RMS 10 days after microdiscectomy. After six months, there was a decrease in pain intensity according to the VAS to 2 points in the kinesitherapy group and to 3 points in the group without kinesitherapy (p=0.088), as well as an improvement in activities of daily living according to RMS up to 5 points in the kinesitherapy group and up to 8 points in the group without kinesitherapy (p=0.003). Reoperations were required in two of 45 patients in the group without kinesitherapy (4.4%) and in one of 45 patients (2.2%) in the kinesitherapy group (p≥0.05).

Conclusion. Kinesitherapy can improve functional recovery in patients after lumbar microdiscectomy.
Postpartum depression — risk factors, clinical and treatment aspects
Authors: Makarova M. A. , Tikhonova Yu. G. , Avdeeva T. I. , Ignatko I. V. , Kinkulkina M. A.
Published: August 2021

Objective: to analyze the psychopathological structure, risk factors and tretment of depressive disorders in women in the postpartum period.

Patients and methods. A prospective cohort study included 150 women in the postpartum period (0-3 days after birth), aged 18 to 41 years, with follow-up every two weeks for six months. The evaluation included clinical interviews, Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale, and the 17-item Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale.

Results and discussion. 11.3% of women developed depression within six weeks after childbirth. Among them, 94.2% presented with mild depression, and 5.8% - moderate. Risk factors associated with postpartum depression included: periods of low mood and anxiety before and during the current pregnancy, traumatic situations during pregnancy, unwanted pregnancy, pathology of pregnancy and childbirth, cesarean section, perinatal status, lack of breastfeeding. All women with postpartum depression were treated with rational-emotive and cognitive-behavioral therapy. A short course of pharmacotherapy was prescribed to 17.6% of them to correct insomnia and anxiety symptoms. Psychotherapy was highly efficient in the treatment of postpartum affective disorders.

Conclusion. The postpartum depression prevalence was 11.3%. The severity of postpartum depression was predominantly mild, and the symptoms regressed during treatment within five months in all women.
Naming as doing: Identities, positioning, and ideologies in capital trials
Authors: Chaemsaithong Krisda
Published: August 2021

Adopting a socio-pragmatic view on linguistic choices, this study aims to show how proper names come to function as an ideologically-significant resource for identity construction, impression management, and the negotiation of meaning-making. Drawing upon twelve opening addresses from the penalty phase of capital trials, the research identifies the forms, functions and frequencies of the naming choices that the prosecution and defense use to reference the defendants and victims. The findings reveal characteristic patterns in the two sides’ speeches both in terms of the naming choices and purposes for which such choices are (not) used. It is argued that, despite the defense’s attempts to neutralize the damaging effects, this value-laden practice potentially construes distance and exaggerates differences between the person on trial and the victims, and shapes the relationship between the defendant and jury in such a way that hinders empathy and understanding, thereby becoming one of the aggravating factors itself.
Two palatovelar fricatives?! the case of theich-Lautin German
Authors: Kijak Artur Konrad
Published: August 2021

This study concentrates on the alternation between two dorsal fricatives: [x] and [ç] in Modern Standard German. The primary source of data for the analysis include both native German words and loanwords. Moreover, the discussion encompasses some strictly related processes such asg-spirantization [g] > [x]/[ç], e.g.Ber[ç] ‘mountain’ andTa[x] ‘day’, and coronalization [ç] > [ʃ], e.g.mi[ʃ] ‘me’ found in various German dialects and colloquial variants. Finally, since it is responsible for the appearance of both alternants in an identical context, e.g.Frau[ç]en‘woman, dim’ andrau[x]en‘to smoke’, a brief look is taken at the historical development of the diminutive suffixchen.

It is argued here that in contemporary German there are two palatovelar fricatives [ç] which differ in their internal organization of the melodic content. In loanwords and in the diminutive suffix-chen, [ç] is lexically specified for palatality, while after front vowels and coronal sonorants the same fricative shares the palatality element with the preceding segment. The analysis is couched in a recent version of Element Theory and it proceeds on two assumptions: a) front vowels and coronal sonorants [l ʁ n] in German are defined by the resonance element |I| and b) [ç] is a complex segment containing two resonants |I| and |U|.
Umzugsplanung in der Reorganisation von Fabrikobjekten
Authors: Nitsche Andreas , Aurich Paul , Stonis Malte
Published: August 2021

Die Durchführung von Umzugsprojekten im Kontext der Fabrikplanung, wie z. B. die Reorganisation von Produktionshallen, ist aufwendig und komplex. Verfahren der Projektplanung berücksichtigen meist nur zeitliche Restriktionen, räumliche Gegebenheiten werden oft vernachlässigt. Daher wird in einem Forschungsvorhaben derzeit eine Optimierungsmethode zur Umzugsplanung entwickelt, die Unternehmen als Entscheidungsunterstützung in der Gestaltung und Bewertung eines Umzugsplans verwenden können.
Potenziale einer Trockenbearbeitung beim Wälzschleifen
Authors: Krage Robin , Gentzen Jens , Kleinjans Manfred , Grinko Sergiy
Published: August 2021

Gegenwärtig erfolgt das kontinuierliche Wälzschleifen von Verzahnungen ausschließlich unter Einsatz von Kühlschmierstoff. In einem Forschungsprojekt konnten die technische Umsetzbarkeit einer Trockenbearbeitung bzw. der Einsatz einer Minimalmengenschmierung nachgewiesen und die Einsatzpotenziale abgeleitet werden. Außerdem wurden Problemstellungen definiert, die vor einer Serienanwendung gelöst werden müssen.
Additive Fertigung in der Ersatzteillogistik
Authors: Schlögel Santina , Gutsche Katja , Kölle Oliver
Published: August 2021

Die additive Fertigung ist für viele Unternehmen ein neues, in der industriellen Praxis selten genutztes Fertigungsverfahren. Gerade in der Ersatzteillogistik bringt sie jedoch viele Vorteile mit sich. Der vorliegende Beitrag soll daher einen Einblick über die Vorteile und vor allem über die Auswahl und Kategorisierung potenzieller Ersatzteile für die additive Fertigung geben. Es werden Analysen für die Bewertung potenzieller Ersatzteile vorgestellt und anhand einer Evaluationsstudie die Ergebnisse von additiver und konventioneller Fertigung verglichen.
Analytical measures (tests) recommended before delivery in a labour room for female
Authors: Khan Afzal , Ali Anwar , Ullah Naseer , Saeed Kausar , Shah Muzafar
Published: August 2021

The study was conducted at central hospital Saidu Sharif, Swat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa from April to September 2020. A total of 100 pregnant women belonging to different regions of district Swat were examined, prior to delivery in the research study. The age of the studied participants was 20-45 years. 3ml of venous blood was taken in a sterile syringe (3cc) from each woman and drained in EDTA (Ethylene diamine tetra acetate) tube. The tube was immediately carried to Sheikh-Al-Zahid-bin-Haiyan (casualty) hospital’s laboratory for complete blood count (CBC), Blood sugar (RBS). Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), HBS-Ag, Hepatitis C virus (HCV), malarial parasites (MP), Brucella and widal test. Urine was also collected in urine bottles for examination and for COVID-19 detection swab samples were taken from nose of the participants. From the recent study it was concluded that pregnant women in the study are susceptible to many diseases and complications. It was found that 12% women were severe anemic while 23% were moderate anemic and 40% were mild anemic. Covid-19 was detected in 12% of the studied women. 2% were observed as HCV positive. 10% of the women had higher blood sugar level (RBS 190mg/dl). 35% of the studied women had a urinary tract infection (UTI). Only 1% of the participant was found to be affected by Brucella bacteria. Malarial parasite was found in almost 5% of the examined participants. HIV was rare and detected in only 1% of the examined one hundred women.
Cesarean Section and Its Correlates Among Early Child Bearing Women in Nepal
Authors: Bhandari Aliza KC , Adhikari Ashmita , Shrestha Mijjal , Rahman Mahbubur
Published: August 2021

Background: Cesarean section (CS) is an important indicator of accessibility to emergency obstetric care. In Nepal there is a high rate of early marriage leading to increase in teen age pregnancy however, the factors associated with CS among early child bearing women remains unreported. Hence, the objective of this study is to examine the factors associated with CS among early child bearing women. Methods: We used the 2016 National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) data obtained from DHS department of USAID for this study. Bivariable analysis was done using chi square test. We used logistic regression model to identify the factors associated with CS among early child bearing women. Results: Out of 4006 women of reproductive age group from 1996 to 2016, more than 50% had early pregnancy. The population-based cesarean section (CS) rate was about 10% [95% confidence interval: (8.9-11.6)]. Our logistic regression model showed that women with early child bearing had 32% (p-value <0.05, 95% confidence interval: 0.50- 0.94) less chance of having CS than women of age group 19-29 years. It was also evident that poorest women of same age group had 66% less likelihood of having CS than the richest (p-value: <0.05, 95% confidence interval: 0.29-0.99). Similarly, women from province-1, province-3 and province-4, having complete four antenatal check-ups and delivering in a private institution were associated with CS among early child bearers. Conclusion: The odds of having CS decreased by 66% among women with early pregnancy than their counterparts after adjusting for all other covariates. This suggests that the early pregnancy might not be the risk factor for having a CS. However, we also found that this relationship might have been confounded by the interaction between wealth index and age groups as there was a huge disparity in CS rate among poorest and wealthiest women who had early child bearing. Thus, Nepal government should focus more on providing adequate accessibility to CS services throughout the population so that every woman could utilize the services in need.
Performative Framework and Case Study for Technology-Enhanced Learning Communities
Authors: Moumoutzis Nektarios , Sifakis Yiannis , Christodoulakis Stavros , Paneva-Marinova Desislava , Pavolva Lilia
Published: August 2021

This paper employs the overarching concept of communities to express the social contexts within which human creativity is exercised and learning happens. With the advent of digital technologies, these social contexts, the communities we engage in, change radically. The new landscape brought about by digital technologies is characterized by new qualities, new opportunities for action, new community affordances. The term onlife is adopted from the Onlife Manifesto and used to distinguish the new kind of communities brought about by the modern digital technologies, the onlife communities. Design principles are presented to foster such communities and support their members. These principles constitute a framework that emphasizes the concept of performativity, i.e. knowledge is based on human performance and actions done within certain social contexts, rather than development of conceptual representations. To demonstrate the use of the framework and the corresponding principles, the paper presents how they can be used to analyze, evaluate and reframe a concrete system addressing creativity and learning in the field of cultural heritage (history teaching and learning). One of the most significant results is the adoption of principles that facilitate students’ engagement in rich learning experiences moving from the role of end-user towards the role of expert-user with the support of so called maieuta-designers. The result of this process is the use of the studied software not only to consume ready-made content but the creation of new, student generated content, offering new learning opportunities to the students. As the evaluation shows, these new learning opportunities enable students to develop a deeper understanding of the topics studied.
Going home after a child’s cardiac surgery: education for safe care
Authors: Callé Aline , Furtado Maria Cândida de Carvalho , Manso Paulo Henrique , Fonseca Luciana Mara Monti , Dessotte Carina Aparecida Marosti , Carvalho Beatriz Molina
Published: August 2021

ABSTRACT Objectives: to validate the content and appearance of the booklet “Going home after a child’s cardiac surgery” and assess family members’ cognitive learning regarding its use. Methods: a methodological and quasi-experimental study of before and after type, with semi-structured interview, pre-test and reading of the booklet in a hospital; post-test and validation occurred after hospital discharge. Wilcoxon non-parametric statistics were used. Results: nineteen family members of children with heart disease participated. The average of correct answers increased 14 percentage points from pre- to post-test; most were medication errors. There was a significant difference (p <0.0001) in the comparison between cognitive knowledge prior to using the booklet and learning acquired from its use. All items received a positive rating, except font size. Conclusions: the booklet helps family members to understand a child’s needs after cardiac surgery, and can be used to prevent unwanted occurrences and enable safe care at home.
Oat development in response to temperature
Authors: Delatorre Carla Andréa , Duarte Vanessa de Freitas , Wairich Andriele , Fraga Guilherme Paim , Ribeiro Márcio Pacheco , Lazzari Helen Estima
Published: August 2021

ABSTRACT: Temperature affects plant development therefore phyllochron has been used as a predictor for developmental events to define the time for agricultural managing practices. This study aims to evaluate changes in phyllochron and thermal sum required for flowering by oat genotypes developed at different decades at three temperature regimes; the effect of high temperature on phytomere development; and identify the development stage at the moment of meristem transition to reproductive stage. Three environments were obtained by sowing in the fall, in the spring, and under constant temperature (17oC), always at inductive photoperiod. Despite changes in nominal values small differences were found among genotypes’ phyllochron. Adding specific optimal and maximum temperatures into the growing degree days’ calculation demonstrated phyllochron stability among environments. Plant cycle length and thermal sum correlated with the number of developed phytomeres. UFRGS 078030-2 plants flowered earlier, had a small number of phytomeres, and greater tolerance to elevated temperatures than the other genotypes. More recent genotypes transit to reproductive stage at an earlier Haun stage than older ones.
Genetic structure and diversity in Neochen jubata (Aves: Anatidae) from the Araguaia River, GO, Brazil
Authors: Pereira Maria Cecília , Coelho Thaís , Werther Karin , Andreazzi Rafael Biccio , Morales Adriana Coletto
Published: August 2021

Abstract: The Orinoco Goose (Neochen jubata) is a few-known and endemic Anatidae to South America, inhabiting sandy beaches along medium and large rivers, with a well-developed riparian forest and in swamp savannas and large freshwater baths. Recent data indicate the presence of longitudinal migratory behavior, and despite them, there are no records on the genetic profile of this species. The Araguaia River region, in the municipality of Luiz Alves, Goiás, receives an undetermined number of ducks seasonally, and there is little information about the individuals who visit this place, constituting the ideal scenario for a study able to offer a genetic overview perspective of this species and to understand the relationship between these individuals better. For this, we genetically characterized 61 individuals sampled in three distinct years of collection using microsatellite molecular markers and mitochondrial DNA. Genetic diversity analyses revealed low levels of heterozygosity for all sampled groups. However, they are within the equilibrium proposed by Hardy-Weinberg (HWE), as inbreeding or drift are not acting in these groups. The parentage analysis supports it, showing a high number of unrelated individuals over the years. AMOVA showed a significant difference among groups. These results may reflect the structure of this migratory species in that region, with the paired differentiation test of individuals from 2013 and 2014 being more similar to each other than those from other years, indicating a possible genetic structure diagnosed by the years of capture. However, there is a high allelic sharing among the three sampled groups, suggesting that these individuals are a population that connects over time and that they have a philopatric relationship with the location. The results found in this study constitute an initial milestone for the genetic knowledge of the mallard duck that should be raised in many other genetic studies.
Fish fauna in low-order streams of the Piquiri River, Upper Paraná River basin, Brazil
Authors: Camargo Mariele P. , Forneck Sandra C. , Dutra Fabrício M. , Ribas Leonardo B. , Cunico Almir M.
Published: August 2021

Abstract The South America ichthyofauna encompasses the highest diversity of the world, however is highly threatened by anthropogenic actions. The fish fauna of nine low-order streams, tributaries of the Piquiri River and impacted by aquaculture, agriculture and urbanization were sampled in the present study. Samplings were done quarterly from December 2017 to September 2018 at three sites in each stream, using a portable electric fishing device in 50-meter segments. A total of 14,507 individuals were collected, belonging to six orders, 20 families, 46 genera, and 70 species. The highest richness and abundance were found for the orders Characiformes and Siluriformes. In this study, nine species that had not been recorded were found, totaling 163 for the basin. In addition, 14 non-native species were captured. The presented list of species contributes to the existing database of ichthyofauna distribution in Neotropical streams, denoting that it is underestimated in the region, mainly in low-order tributaries. The present study reinforces the importance of inventories and monitoring in environments with high biodiversity and sensitive to anthropogenic actions.
SKIN TO SKIN CONTACT AND THE EARLY INITIATION OF BREASTFEEDING: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
Authors: Araújo Kadja Elvira dos Anjos Silva , Santos Camila Carvalho dos , Caminha Maria de Fátima Costa , Silva Suzana Lins da , Pereira Juliana De Castro Nunes , Batista Filho Malaquias
Published: August 2021

ABSTRACT Objective: to identify the prevalence and factors associated with the occurrence of skin-to-skin contact and the early initiation of breastfeeding in a Baby-friendly hospital in northeastern Brazil. Method: cross-sectional study, composed of pregnant women, in which delivery occurred at the Baby-friendly Hospital. Data were collected between April 2017 and May 2019 through forms containing sociodemographic variables, obstetric history and data on the delivery and birth of the newborn. The possible associated factors were analyzed through the chi-square test, adopting the significance level of 0.05. Result: among the 727 pregnant women, skin-to-skin contact occurred in 83.6% and breastfeeding in 58.3%. Full-term birth, birth weight ≥ 2500g, Apgar index >7 in the first minute, vaginal delivery, 6 or more prenatal consultations and years of study >9 were the factors associated with the practice of skin-to-skin contact. Regarding breastfeeding, in addition to the first five factors related to skin-to-skin contact, a statistical relationship with the beginning of prenatal care in the first trimester, skin-to-skin contact and multiparity was also evidenced. Conclusions: this study found a prevalence rate of skin-to-skin contact appropriate to a Baby-friendly Hospital and a direct association of this practice with breastfeeding.
Correlação entre os domínios de competência do tutor e o desempenho estudantil: estudo transversal
Authors: Sousa Monique Araújo de Oliveira , Falbo-Neto Gilliatt Hanois , Falbo Ana Rodrigues
Published: August 2021

Resumo: Introdução: Na aprendizagem baseada em problemas, o tutor atua como facilitador, e, nesse contexto, as congruências social e cognitiva e o conhecimento do conteúdo são considerados aspectos fundamentais para o exercício dessa função. Objetivo: Este estudo teve como objetivo verificar o perfil de domínios de competências do tutor e a correlação com o desempenho do estudante. Método: Trata-se de um estudo transversal realizado de 2016 a 2017 com tutores e estudantes de Medicina da Faculdade Pernambucana de Saúde. Utilizou-se o coeficiente de Spearman para verificar a correlação do perfil de domínios de competência do tutor com o rendimento geral. Resultado: Participaram do estudo 34 tutores e 533 estudantes. Identificaram-se três domínios de competência nas frequências: congruência cognitiva em 88,7%, congruência social em 93,6% e conhecimento de conteúdo em 98,9%. Não foi observada correlação entre os domínios de competência e rendimento. Conclusão: Especula-se que esse achado se deva à falta de controle das variáveis de confundimento.
Internato na pandemia Covid-19: a experiência de uma escola médica
Authors: Caramori Jacqueline Teixeira , Palhares Aristides Augusto , Smaira Sumaia Inaty , Silva Vanessa dos Santos , Costa Roberto Antonio de Araújo , Lima Maria Cristina Pereira
Published: August 2021

Resumo: Introdução: A pandemia da Covid-19 provocou milhares de mortes e levou a incontáveis mudanças na forma de organização de serviços de saúde e nas escolas de Medicina mundo afora. Relato de experiência: Este artigo relata a experiência da Faculdade de Medicina de Botucatu da Universidade Estadual Paulista (Unesp), cujas aulas foram suspensas em função da pandemia. Discussão: Descrevem-se as motivações para a suspensão e os procedimentos para a retomada das aulas do internato, depois de 15 semanas da interrupção. Conclusão: Ressalta-se a importância das decisões coletivas, da comunicação empática, do acolhimento e cuidado com a saúde mental e da parceria com o Hospital das Clínicas na realização de rastreamento para a presença do vírus entre os estudantes. Por fim, destaca-se o aprendizado para o professor ao se defrontar, por um lado, com a impotência diante da morte e do desconhecido, e, por outro, com a potência do cuidado que pode ser oferecido em situação tão singular quanto uma pandemia.
Systemic Reconfiguration of Capitalism: Applying Ruggie’s Critique of Waltz in Economics
Authors: Marques Sylvia Ferreira
Published: August 2021

Abstract This paper identifies changes in the center-periphery structure due to transformations in capitalism since 1970. In its new configuration, capitalism not only altered center-periphery relations but also exerted impact upon peripheral units that affect the system structure itself. This paper aims to apply Ruggie’s famous critique of Waltz in International Relations to analyse global capitalism and show how the changes in the center-periphery cleavage is affecting its systemic reconfiguration in the 21st century. This research identifies the boomerang effect as a new systemic element, that is, as a byproduct of the interaction of units of the global capitalist system in the 21st century.
English language assessment: unfolding school students’ and parents’ views
Authors: Larenas Claudio Díaz , Boero Nicolás Acuña , Rodríguez Barbara Ravanal , Sánchez Ignacio Riffo
Published: August 2021

Abstract The current study analyzes Chilean students’ and parents’ perceptions of English language assessment. 352 Chilean 10 th graders were surveyed using the Perceptions of the Assessment Tasks Inventory, the Perceived Classroom Assessment Environment Scale, and the Test Anxiety Scale in order to measure their perceptions of English language assessment. A semi-structured interview was also conducted to capture the perceptions of 74 parents about English and the way their children are assessed in the English subject. The quantitative data was analyzed using the Pearson Correlation Coefficient to measure how strong the relationship of the scores was in the three scales, and qualitative data was categorized using content and frequency analysis. The findings suggest that the subscales of the three surveys hold statistically significant relationships and students feel that a Learning-oriented assessment environment benefits them more than a Performance-oriented one. The former is a kind of environment that favors students’ learning and mastery of subject materials, whereas the latter is a type of environment that aligns with classroom assessment practices that emphasize the importance of grades over learning. The qualitative results also suggest that parents have a positive perception of the English language and believe it is useful for their children’s life even though they themselves might find it difficult to learn the language.
RESIGNIFICACIÓN PEDAGÓGICA EN LAS CARRERAS DE COMUNICACIÓN MEDIANTE INVESTIGACIÓN ACCIÓN PARTICIPATIVA Y AFORISMOS FILOSÓFICOS
Authors: Torres Valdés Rosa María
Published: August 2021

Se presenta una Investigación Acción Participativa en el marco de estudios del área de comunicación, cuyo objetivo es analizar un caso de resignificación de la práctica educativa en comunicación y de la praxis de la comunicación en sí misma, desde una perspectiva crítica, tomando como catalizador los aforismos de Wagensberg y las aportaciones de antiguos y modernos filósofos, como medio para corregir discursos abusivos actuales. Se aplicaron técnicas cualitativas para analizar el trabajo realizado por los estudiantes mediante la presentación de proyectos a empresas reales: unos cursando una asignatura en la que se incluía la filosofía como recurso para el diseño de propuestas; otros sin cursarla y sin desarrollar las dinámicas conversacionales filosóficas unidas al contenido teórico-técnico. La importancia del tema radica en la inclusión de la filosofía en los procesos de gestión de las Relaciones Públicas y de la creatividad, para estimular la capacidad de pensamiento crítico constructivo. Los resultados muestran indicios de que la utilización de aforismos y razonamientos filosóficos en la didáctica conducen a que el estudiantado elabore proyectos más consistentes, mejor fundamentados y estructurados, más holísticos y socialmente responsables. Esto evidenciaría la necesidad de reflexionar sobre la resignificación pedagógica en comunicación, con un amplio campo para la investigación.
Исследование признакового пространства для описания отрезков речевых сигналов в задачах распознавания устной речи
Authors: Жиляков Евгений Георгиевич , Болдышев Алексей Владимирович , Уманец Сергей Вячеславович
Published: August 2021

В данной работе рассматривается набор признаков для описания отрезков речевых сигналов с точки зрения их информативности. Наборы признаков используются в задачах распознавания. От информативности набора признаков во многом зависит успех решения задач распознавания. Информативность набора признаков оценивается с помощью информационной энтропии. В данной работе производится сравнение информационной энтропии для наборов признаков, полученных с помощью метода Фурье и субполосного метода. Также рассматриваются модификации этих методов для анализа речевых сигналов, а именно переход к мел шкале. Кроме мел шкалы, для субполосного метода рассматриваются и другие искажения частотной оси. В работе приводятся результаты вычисления информационной энтропии для разных способов получения набора признаков, описывающих отрезки речевых сигналов. В результате делается вывод о повышении информативности набора признаков при использовании субполосного метода с нелинейным разбиением частотной оси на полосы анализа.