bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Be Healthy in Pregnancy (BHIP): A Randomized Controlled Trial of Nutrition and Exercise Intervention from Early Pregnancy to Achieve Recommended Gestational Weight Gain
Authors: Atkinson Stephanie A. , Maran Atherai , Dempsey Kendra , Perreault Maude , Vanniyasingam Thuva , Phillips Stuart M. , Hutton Eileen K. , Mottola Michelle F. , Wahoush Olive , Xie Feng , Thabane Lehana
Published: February 2022

A randomized two-arm prospective superiority trial tested the efficacy of a novel structured and monitored nutrition (bi-weekly counselling for individualized energy and high dairy protein diet) and exercise program (walking goal of 10,000 steps/day) (intervention) compared to usual care (control) in pregnant women to achieve gestational weight gain (GWG) within current recommendations. Women recruited in communities in southern Ontario, Canada were randomized at 12–17 weeks gestation with stratification by site and pre-pregnancy BMI to intervention (n = 119) or control (n = 122). The primary outcome was the proportion of women who achieved GWG within the Institute of Medicine recommendations. Although the intervention compared to control group was more likely to achieve GWG within recommendations (OR = 1.51; 95% CI (0.81, 2.80)) and total GWG was lower by 1.45 kg (95% CI: (−11.9, 8.88)) neither reached statistical significance. The intervention group achieved significantly higher protein intake at 26–28 week (mean difference (MD); 15.0 g/day; 95% CI (8.1, 21.9)) and 36–38 week gestation (MD = 15.2 g/day; 95% CI (9.4, 21.1)) and higher healthy diet scores (22.5 ± 6.9 vs. 18.7 ± 8.5, p < 0.005) but step counts were similar averaging 6335 steps/day. Pregnancy and infant birth outcomes were similar between groups. While the structured and monitored nutrition with counselling improved diet quality and protein intake and may have benefited GWG, the exercise goal of 10,000 steps/day was unachievable. The results can inform future recommendations for diet and physical activity in pregnancy.
Socio-Psychological Factors Associated with Young Australian Adults’ Consumption of Energy Dense and Nutrient Poor (EDNP) Foods
Authors: Kombanda Krupa Thammaiah , Margerison Claire , Booth Alison , Worsley Anthony
Published: February 2022

Young Australian adults’ exhibit high consumption of Energy Dense and Nutrient Poor (EDNP) foods; however, there is limited research concerning the factors influencing their consumption. This study aimed to explore socio-psychological factors associated with young Australian adults’ (18–30 years) consumption of EDNP foods with consideration of the Food Related Lifestyle Model (FRLM) as a potential framework. Through qualitative descriptive research methodology, 38 young adults were interviewed. Data were thematically analyzed. Participants were classified into three groups based on their living arrangements namely, parental, shared and independent households. Five themes emerged, (1) psychological factors (2) intrinsic qualities of EDNP foods, (3) social factors, (4) accessibility and affordability and (5) health related beliefs. The FRLM takes into consideration some of the factors reported in this study as influencers of EDNP food intakes. However, the FRLM omits important psychological factors (motivation, restraint, cravings, coping strategies and habits) identified by participants as influencers over their EDNP food intakes. The FRLM may need to be extended in its application to EDNP food intakes of young Australian adults. Social marketing campaigns highlighting health risks, addressing social and environmental factors are suggested. The social desirability of healthier alternatives in social gatherings of young adults could be increased.
Community Perceptions of Zinc Biofortified Flour during an Intervention Study in Pakistan
Authors: Mahboob Usman , Ceballos-Rasgado Marena , Moran Victoria Hall , Joy Edward J. M. , Ohly Heather , Zaman Mukhtiar , Lowe Nicola M.
Published: February 2022

Zinc-biofortified flour may be a cost-effective approach to improve zinc status of populations in low-resource settings. The success of biofortification programmes is subject to acceptability and uptake by consumers. This study explored community leaders’ and community members’ (n = 72) experiences and attitudes towards the flour provided during a cluster randomised controlled trial of zinc biofortified wheat in rural Pakistan (BiZiFED2). Focus group discussions (n = 12) were conducted and thematic analysis applied using an inductive, semantic, contextualist approach. Five themes were identified: (1) Contribution to food security; (2) Better sensory and baking properties than local flour; (3) Perceived health benefits; (4) Willingness to pay for the flour; and (5) Importance of trusted promoters/suppliers. Although the participants were blind to whether they had received control or biofortified flour, referred to collectively as “study flour”, the results indicated that the study flour performed well in terms of its taste and bread making qualities, with no adverse reports from participants in either arm of the BIZIFED2 RCT. Participants suggested that they would buy the biofortified wheat if this was available at a fair price due to perceived health benefits, reporting positive sensory characteristics and cooking attributes when compared to the flour available in the local markets. Overall, there was a positive reception of the programme and flour among the participants, and members of the community hoped for its continuation and expansion.
Late Sodium Current of the Heart: Where Do We Stand and Where Are We Going?
Authors: Horváth Balázs , Szentandrássy Norbert , Almássy János , Dienes Csaba , Kovács Zsigmond Máté , Nánási Péter P. , Banyasz Tamas
Published: February 2022

Late sodium current has long been linked to dysrhythmia and contractile malfunction in the heart. Despite the increasing body of accumulating information on the subject, our understanding of its role in normal or pathologic states is not complete. Even though the role of late sodium current in shaping action potential under physiologic circumstances is debated, it’s unquestioned role in arrhythmogenesis keeps it in the focus of research. Transgenic mouse models and isoform-specific pharmacological tools have proved useful in understanding the mechanism of late sodium current in health and disease. This review will outline the mechanism and function of cardiac late sodium current with special focus on the recent advances of the area.
Nanoparticles Carrying NF-κB p65-Specific siRNA Alleviate Colitis in Mice by Attenuating NF-κB-Related Protein Expression and Pro-Inflammatory Cellular Mediator Secretion
Authors: Müller Elena K. , Białas Nataniel , Epple Matthias , Hilger Ingrid
Published: February 2022

Ulcerative colitis is a disease that causes inflammation and ulcers in the colon and which is typically recurrent, and NF-κB proteins are important players during disease progression. Here, we assess the impact of silica-coated calcium phosphate nanoparticles carrying encapsulated siRNA against NF-κB p65 on a murine model of colitis. To this end, nanoparticles were injected intravenously (2.0 mg siRNA/kg body weight) into mice after colitis induction with dextran sulfate sodium or healthy ones. The disease activity index, the histopathological impact on the colon, the protein expression of several NF-κB-associated players, and the mediator secretion (colon tissue, blood) were analyzed. We found that the nanoparticles effectively alleviated the clinical and histopathological features of colitis. They further suppressed the expression of NF-κB proteins (e.g., p65, p50, p52, p100, etc.) in the colon. They finally attenuated the local (colon) or systemic (blood) pro-inflammatory mediator secretion (e.g., TNF-α, IFN-β, MCP-1, interleukins, etc.) as well as the leucocyte load of the spleen and mesenteric lymph nodes. The nanoparticle biodistribution in diseased animals was seen to pinpoint organs containing lymphoid entities (appendix, intestine, lung, etc.). Taken together, the nanoparticle-related silencing of p65 NF-κB protein expression could well be used for the treatment of ulcerative colitis in the future.
Single and Multiple Stimuli-Responsive Polymer Particles for Controlled Drug Delivery
Authors: López Ruiz Aida , Ramirez Ann , McEnnis Kathleen
Published: February 2022

Polymers that can change their properties in response to an external or internal stimulus have become an interesting platform for drug delivery systems. Polymeric nanoparticles can be used to decrease the toxicity of drugs, improve the circulation of hydrophobic drugs, and increase a drug’s efficacy. Furthermore, polymers that are sensitive to specific stimuli can be used to achieve controlled release of drugs into specific areas of the body. This review discusses the different stimuli that can be used for controlled drug delivery based on internal and external stimuli. Internal stimuli have been defined as events that evoke changes in different characteristics, inside the body, such as changes in pH, redox potential, and temperature. External stimuli have been defined as the use of an external source such as light and ultrasound to implement such changes. Special attention has been paid to the particular chemical structures that need to be incorporated into polymers to achieve the desired stimuli response. A current trend in this field is the incorporation of several stimuli in a single polymer to achieve higher specificity. Therefore, to access the most recent advances in stimuli-responsive polymers, the focus of this review is to combine several stimuli. The combination of different stimuli is discussed along with the chemical structures that can produce it.
Polymeric Composite of Magnetite Iron Oxide Nanoparticles and Their Application in Biomedicine: A Review
Authors: Bustamante-Torres Moises , Romero-Fierro David , Estrella-Nuñez Jocelyne , Arcentales-Vera Belén , Chichande-Proaño Estefani , Bucio Emilio
Published: February 2022

A broad spectrum of nanomaterials has been investigated for multiple purposes in recent years. Some of these studied materials are magnetics nanoparticles (MNPs). Iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) and superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) are MNPs that have received extensive attention because of their physicochemical and magnetic properties and their ease of combination with organic or inorganic compounds. Furthermore, the arresting of these MNPs into a cross-linked matrix known as hydrogel has attracted significant interest in the biomedical field. Commonly, MNPs act as a reinforcing material for the polymer matrix. In the present review, several methods, such as co-precipitation, polyol, hydrothermal, microemulsion, and sol-gel methods, are reported to synthesize magnetite nanoparticles with controllable physical and chemical properties that suit the required application. Due to the potential of magnetite-based nanocomposites, specifically in hydrogels, processing methods, including physical blending, in situ precipitation, and grafting methods, are introduced. Moreover, the most common characterization techniques employed to study MNPs and magnetic gel are discussed.
Airbrushed Polysulfone (PSF)/Hydroxyapatite (HA) Nanocomposites: Effect of the Presence of Nanoparticles on Mechanical Behavior
Authors: Moradienayat Monireh , Olmos Dania , González-Benito Javier
Published: February 2022

Nanocomposite films of polysulfone (PSF)—hydroxyapatite (HA) were prepared with a commercial airbrush. Structural, thermal, and mechanical characterization allows obtaining new information to understand the role of the nanofiller–polymer matrix interphase in the final performance of these materials in relation to its possible applications in the restoration of bones. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy shows that there are hardly any structural changes in the polymer when adding HA particles. From thermal analysis (differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetry), it can be highlighted that the presence of HA does not significantly affect the glass transition temperature of the PSF but decelerates its thermal degradation. All this information points out that any change in the PSF performance because of the addition of HA particles cannot be due to specific interactions between the filler and the polymer. Results obtained from uniaxial tensile tests indicate that the addition of small amounts of HA particles (1% wt) leads to elastic moduli higher than the upper bound predicted by the rule of mixtures suggesting there must be a high contribution of the interphase. A simple model of the nanocomposite is proposed for which three contributions must be considered, particles, interphase and matrix, in such a way that interphases arising from different particles can interact by combining with each other thus leading to a decrease in its global contribution when the amount of particles is high enough. The mechanical behavior can be explained considering a balance between the contribution of the interphase and the number of particles. Finally, a particular mechanism is proposed to explain why in certain nanocomposites relatively high concentrations of nanoparticles may substantially increase the strain to failure.
Volume Dependence of Hydrogen Diffusion for Sorption and Desorption Processes in Cylindrical-Shaped Polymers
Authors: Jung Jae Kap , Kim Kyu Tae , Baek Un Bong , Nahm Seung Hoon
Published: February 2022

In the actual application of gas transport properties under high pressure, the important factors are sample size dependence and permeation efficiency, related to gas sorption. With a modified volumetric analysis technique, we firstly measured the overall diffusion properties and equilibrium times for reaching the saturation of hydrogen content in both hydrogen sorption and desorption processes. The measured parameters of total uptake (C∞), total desorbed content (C0), diffusion coefficient in sorption (Ds), diffusion coefficient in desorption (Dd), sorption equilibrium time (ts) and desorption equilibrium time (td) of hydrogen in two polymers were determined relative to the diameter and thickness of the cylindrical-shaped polymers in the two processes. C∞ and C0 did not demonstrate an appreciable volume dependence for all polymers. The identical values of C∞ and C0 indicate the reversibility between sorption and desorption, which is interpreted by the occurrence of physisorption by sorbed hydrogen molecules. However, the measured diffusivity of the polymers was found to be increased with increasing thickness above 5 mm. Moreover, the larger Dd values measured in the desorption process compared to Ds may be attributed to an increased amorphous phase and volume swelling caused by increased hydrogen voids and polymer chain scission after decompression. The ts and td were found to be linearly proportional to the square of the thickness above an aspect ratio of 3.7, which was consistent with the numerical simulations based on the solution of Fick’s law. This finding could be used to predict the ts in a polymer without any measurement, depending on the sample size.
Influence of Conventional Polymer, Hybrid Polymer and Zinc Phosphate Luting Agents on the Bond Strength of Customized Zirconia Post in Premolars—An In-Vitro Evaluation
Authors: AlAali Khulud A. , AlHelal Abdulaziz , Almahri Jawaher R. , Albakri Aroob A. , Albani Ragad M. , Alhaizan Yasmeen A. , Alhamdan Mai M. , Alaql Naif A. , Binhasan Mashael , Alhamdan Eman M. , Albaqawi Ahmed H. , Vohra Fahim , Abduljabbar Tariq
Published: February 2022

The aim was to identify the influence of conventional polymeric resin based cement (RC), hybrid polymer modified glass ionomer (RMGIC) and Zinc phosphate cement (ZPC) on the pull out strength of the customized zirconia post in premolars. Access cavity and root canals were performed in sixty premolar teeth with the standardized crown down technique (ProTaper Universal, Dentsply). Post space impressions were scanned, and the pre-sintered Zenostar Zr Translucent blanks (Weiland Dental, Pforzheim) were milled with the Opera-system to form the post. All prepared specimens were divided equally in three groups based on the cement type employed for luting as follows: group A: ZPC; group B (GC Fuji PLUS Capsule): RMGIC; group C (and RC (3M RelyX ARC). Ten specimens in each group were thermocycled (TC) at 5 and 55 °C in distilled water baths (40,000 cycles). Pull out bond strength was assessed using a universal testing machine at 0.5 mm/min. The means and standard deviations were compared using ANOVA and Tukey Kramer multiple comparisons tests. A significant difference among the cement groups as well as between TC and non-thermocycled (NTC) groups (p < 0.05) was observed. The highest tensile stress was demonstrated among group C (Resin, 69.89 ± 4.81 (NTC), 64.06 ± 4.36 (TC)) with the least in group A, (zinc phosphate, 43.66 ± 5.02 (NTC), 37.70 ± 5.10 (TC)) for both groups. Group A presented with 100% adhesive bond failures, followed by 80% in group C and 70% in group B, respectively. A similar outcome was observed in the TC group for the cement; however, unlike the NTC group, the TC group showed more cohesive failures compared to the NTC mixed failure. Dual cure polymer based cement demonstrated higher bond strength and efficient adhesive bonding of the customized Zr post with root dentine compared to zinc phosphate (non-polymeric) and RMGIC (hybrid polymer). Thermocycling compromised Zr post adhesive bonding to root dentin.
Microscopic Imaging Technology Assisted Dynamic Monitoring and Restoration of Micron-Level Cracks in the Painted Layer of Terracotta Warriors and Horses of the Western Han Dynasty
Authors: Wang Juanli , Li Jiaxin , Chao Xiaolian , Chen Youlu , Huang Yongsheng , Mai Bingjie , Li Yuhu , Cao Jing
Published: February 2022

Cracks are one of the most common issues affecting colored pottery relics; these can be divided into macroscopic cracks, recognizable by the human eye, and micron cracks, which cannot be observed by the naked eye. The gradual development of micron cracks eventually leads to large-scale cracks and the shedding of the coating layer. The repair of such micron cracks poses a key technical difficulty in restoring painted pottery remnants from the Western Han Dynasty. We attempt to solve this problem by reporting on a method that entails the use of a water-borne fluoropolymer material as the adhesive agent, as well as ultra-depth-of-field, digital microscopic imaging technology to build an operating platform for an optical imaging monitoring system. By making simulated ceramic samples, we systematically investigated the influences of water-borne fluoropolymer on chromaticity, adhesion, contact angle, surface morphology, and thermal stability of the paint layer. The results indicate that the color of the painted layer, when treated with the water-borne fluoropolymer, did not change, and the adhesion and contact angle of the painted layer were improved. Additionally, the outcomes of the SEM analysis show that the adhesion and hydrophobicity of the painted layer were improved because the water-borne fluoropolymer filled up the porous structure of the painted layer and covered the pigment particles. These findings demonstrate that aqueous, water-borne fluoropolymer can be used as an adhesive agent for micron cracks. Meanwhile, via the operating platform of the optical imaging monitoring system, the micron cracks of the painted terracotta warriors and horses from the Western Han Dynasty were successfully repaired using the water-borne fluoropolymer. The results imply that the microstructure, size, and geometric spaces of the cracks can be obtained directly utilizing microscopic imaging technology. The dynamic monitoring and imaging system described above can be employed to assist prosthetists in visualizing micro-repair operations in real time, assist with fine visual operations during the repair process, and realize dynamic video recording of the entire repair process. Our work provides a simple visualization method to repair micron-scale cracks in painted pottery relics by applying modern fluoropolymer and ultra-depth-of-field digital microscopic imaging technology.
Study of Aramid Yarns Sizing
Authors: Krstović Katarina , Kovačević Stana , Schwarz Ivana , Brnada Snježana
Published: February 2022

The process and efficiency of sizing aramid yarns before the weaving process was studied. The sizing was carried out under different conditions, with and without the pre-wetting of the threads before the actual sizing process. Two groups of yarns were tested. The first group consisted of five yarn samples that were blended with 95% meta-aramid and 5% para-aramid in counts of 20 × 2, 17 × 2, 14 × 2 and 12.5 × 2 tex. The second group of yarns consisted of three yarn samples that were blended with 93% meta-aramid, 5% para-aramid and 2% carbon in counts of 20, 20 × 2 and 17 × 2 tex. The inlet moisture of the yarn before sizing was 40% (with pre-wetting) and 4% (without pre-wetting), and the outlet moisture after drying was 4%. In order to carry out such tests to reproduce them, the sizing was carried out on a laboratory-sizing machine with the possibility of adapting to industrial conditions. According to the obtained results related to the properties of yarn before and after sizing, it can be concluded that sizing of aramid yarns is justified. When sizing the yarn without pre-wetting, the mechanical properties improved, especially breaking force, strength and abrasion resistance. Irregularity and hairiness were also reduced, especially when sizing with pre-wetting. Yarn hairiness or the frequency of protruding fibres also decreased with sizing in almost all samples and sizing conditions. The second group of yarns with a carbon fibre content mostly showed better mechanical properties before sizing, which continued after sizing. In general, the aramid yarn sized with pre-wetting showed certain deformations caused by stretching in the wet state and thus reduced the size pick-up, which caused less breaking forces and strength. Sizing with pre-wetting resulted in a slightly better smoothness of the thread and its higher evenness. It can be concluded that the aramid yarn should be sized with a lower size percentage (up to 4.5%), i.e., without pre-wetting in order to minimise the deformation of the yarn during sizing and thus improve the mechanical properties in the weaving process.
Certain Integral Formulae Associated with the Product of Generalized Hypergeometric Series and Several Elementary Functions Derived from Formulas for the Beta Function
Authors: Choi Junesang , Kurumujji Shantha Kumari , Kilicman Adem , Rathie Arjun Kumar
Published: February 2022

The literature has an astonishingly large number of integral formulae involving a range of special functions. In this paper, by using three Beta function formulae, we aim to establish three integral formulas whose integrands are products of the generalized hypergeometric series p+1Fp and the integrands of the three Beta function formulae. Among the many particular instances for our formulae, several are stated clearly. Moreover, an intriguing inequality that emerges throughout the proving procedure is shown. It is worth noting that the three integral formulae shown here may be expanded further by using a variety of more generalized special functions than p+1Fp. Symmetry occurs naturally in the Beta and p+1Fp functions, which are two of the most important functions discussed in this study.
An Approximate Solution for the Contact Problem of Profiles Slightly Deviating from Axial Symmetry
Authors: Popov Valentin L.
Published: February 2022

An approximate solution for a contact problem of profiles which are not axially symmetrical but deviate only slightly from the axial symmetry is found in a closed explicit analytical form. The solution is based on Betti’s reciprocity theorem, first applied to contact problems by R.T. Shield in 1967, in connection with the extremal principle for the contact force found by J.R. Barber in 1974 and Fabrikant’s approximation (1986) for the pressure distribution under a flat punch with arbitrary cross-section. The general solution is validated by comparison with the Hertzian solution for the contact of ellipsoids with small eccentricity and with numerical solutions for conical shapes with polygonal cross-sections. The solution provides the dependencies of the force on the indentation, the size and the shape of the contact area as well as the pressure distribution in the contact area. The approach is illustrated by linear (conical) and quadratic profiles with arbitrary cross-sections as well as for “separable” shapes, which can be represented as a product of a power-law function of the radius with an arbitrary exponent and an arbitrary function of the polar angle. A generalization of the Method of Dimensionality Reduction to non-axisymmetric profiles is formulated.
Sustainability of the Al-Abila Dam in the Western Desert of Iraq
Authors: Adham Ammar , Seeyan Shwan , Abed Rasha , Mahdi Karrar , Riksen Michel , Ritsema Coen
Published: February 2022

Water scarcity is a major problem in the arid climate of Iraq’s Western Desert and people struggle to manage the precarious water supply. Harvesting rainwater is one sustainable method that can be used to increase the supply of water. Rainwater harvesting systems (RWH) are considered to be sustainable “if they can continue collecting, utilising, and consuming natural water resources for maximum livelihood development”. This study assessed the sustainably of the Al- Abila dam in Iraq’s Western Desert by determining its level of functionality in harvesting water and using it effectively. The reliability of the water supply and its potential productivity and water use efficiency were investigated as well. The balancing storage at the end of each runoff shows that dam storage of this magnitude is insufficient to fulfil the water demand. This research highlighted constraints that have affected system functioning or sustainability and provided suggestions and recommendations for risk-managed rainwater harvesting system installation methods and designs. The water conveyance factor and adequacy of the system were low, with 60% conveyance losses. This research helps policymakers to conduct large-scale, high-level assessments and answer basic problems about small earth dam development and management in Anbar’s Western Desert.
Assessing Numerical Model Skill at Simulating Coastal Flooding Using Field Observations of Deposited Debris and Photographic Evidence
Authors: Ferguson Sean , Provan Mitchel , Murphy Enda , Bérubé Dominique , Desrosiers Marc , Robichaud André , Kim Joseph
Published: February 2022

Despite the growing range and availability of resources to support coastal flood hazard model development, there is often a scarcity of data to support critical assessment of the performance of community-scale coastal inundation models. Even where long-term tide gauge measurements are available in close proximity to the study area, the records provide little insight into the spatial distribution and limits of overland flooding, or the influence of topographic features and structures on flooding pathways. We present methods to support the assessment of model performance using field observations in lieu of, or supplementary to, conventional water-level records. A high-resolution, numerical coastal flood hazard model was developed to simulate storm surge-driven flooding in the Acadian Peninsula region of New Brunswick, Canada. Owing to the remoteness of the study area from tide gauge stations, model performance was assessed based on a comparison with field measurements of deposited wrack and debris, as well as photographic and video evidence of coastal flooding, for two significant storm surge events in recent history. Our research findings illustrate the value of observational and qualitative data for characterizing coastal flood hazards, lending gravity to the importance of non-conventional data sources, particularly in data-scarce regions.
Flood Flow in a Proglacial Outwash Plain: Quantifying Spatial Extent and Frequency of Inundation from Time-Lapse Imagery
Authors: Hiller Clemens , Walter Lukas , Helfricht Kay , Weisleitner Klemens , Achleitner Stefan
Published: February 2022

High mountain environments have shown substantial geomorphological changes forced by rising temperatures in recent decades. As such, paraglacial transition zones in catchments with rapidly retreating glaciers and abundant sediments are key elements in high alpine river systems and promise to be revealing, yet challenging, areas of investigation for the quantification of current and future sediment transport. In this study, we explore the potential of semi-automatic image analysis to detect the extent of the inundation area and corresponding inundation frequency in a proglacial outwash plain (Jamtal valley, Austria) from terrestrial time-lapse imagery. We cumulated all available records of the inundated area from 2018–2020 and analyzed the spatial and temporal patterns of flood flows. The approach presented here allows semi-automated monitoring of fundamental hydrological/hydraulic processes in an environment of scarce data. Runoff events and their intensity were quantified and attributed to either pronounced ablation, heavy precipitation, or a combination of both. We detected an increasing degree of channel concentration within the observation period. The maximum inundation from one event alone took up 35% of the analyzed area. About 10% of the observed area presented inundation in 60–70% of the analyzed images. In contrast, 60–70% of the observed area was inundated in less than 10% of the analyzed period. Despite some limitations in terms of image classification, prevailing weather conditions and illumination, the derived inundation frequency maps provide novel insights into the evolution of the proglacial channel network.
Multiple Recent Colonizations of the Australian Region by the Chydorus sphaericus Group (Crustacea: Cladocera)
Authors: Karabanov Dmitry P. , Bekker Eugeniya I. , Garibian Petr G. , Shiel Russell J. , Kobayashi Tsuyoshi , Taylor Derek J. , Kotov Alexey A.
Published: February 2022

Biotic introductions are an ongoing disruption for many ecosystems. For passively dispersed freshwater zooplankton, transcontinental introductions have been common but are poorly studied in the southern hemisphere. Here we assess the hypothesis of recent introduction for populations of the Chydorus sphaericus group (Crustacea: Cladocera) in Australia. We analyzed 254 sequences (63 original sequences) from the cytochrome oxidase I region of mitochondrial DNA of Chydorus sp., which included global representation. Three Australian populations were connected with separate clades in the northern hemisphere, suggesting multiple colonization events for Australia. The timescale of the divergences was consistent with recent (Quaternary) dispersal. As Australian populations are exposed to migrating birds from the northern hemisphere, both avian and anthropogenic sources are candidates for dispersal vectors. We concluded that recent cross-hemisphere dispersal in the Chydorus sphaericus group is more common than previously believed.
Greening Urban Areas with Decentralized Wastewater Treatment and Reuse: A Case Study of Ecoparque in Tijuana, Mexico
Authors: Garcia Denise , Muñoz Meléndez Gabriela , Arteaga Armando , Ojeda-Revah Lina , Mladenov Natalie
Published: February 2022

In rapidly growing urban areas, such as Tijuana, Mexico, the presence of urban green spaces (UGSs) can help stem soil erosion, improve infiltration, slow runoff, decrease flooding, reduce air pollution, and mitigate climate change. In many water-scarce parts of the world, where centralized wastewater treatment is not accessible or practical, decentralized wastewater treatment systems (DEWATSs) have the potential to supply the water needed for irrigating UGSs. Here, we first review UGS systems supported by DEWATSs and the water quality guidelines and challenges associated with implementing DEWATSs for urban greening in different countries, including Mexico. We also critically examine the linkages between the lack of UGSs in Tijuana, Mexico, extensive soil erosion, and failing sanitation infrastructure that has led to the infamously poor water quality in the Tijuana River. Tijuana’s Ecoparque Wastewater Treatment Facility, a low-energy, aerobic DEWATS, which collects, treats, and discharges residential sewage for localized landscape irrigation, demonstrates how DEWATSs can meet the water demands for urban greening in rapidly urbanizing cities. The aerobic decentralized treatment using a gravity-fed trickling biofilter resulted in a >85% removal of chemical oxygen demand and dissolved organic carbon. Prior to treatment facility upgrades, there was a ~2 log reduction in total coliform and Escherichia coli and a <20% decrease in ammonia from the influent to final effluent. After the addition of a maturation pond in 2020, the effluent met Mexico standards for irrigation reuse, with a ~4 log reduction in fecal coliforms from the influent to final effluent. Case study results demonstrated the potential for decentralized wastewater treatment to meet effluent standards for landscape irrigation, provide water for urban greening, and prevent pollution in the Tijuana River and other urban waterways.
PNAE (National School Feeding Program) and Its Events of Expansive Learnings at Municipal Level
Authors: da Silva Eliane Alves , Pedrozo Eugenio Avila , da Silva Tania Nunes
Published: February 2022

The National School Feeding Program (PNAE for its acronym in Portuguese) is one of the largest food policies in the world, partially covering the daily needs of 44 billion students per year. In 2009, Law No. 11,947 established that at least 30% of the total financial transfer of PNAE was used in the purchase of foodstuff directly from family farming in the left-wing government of Lula. In practice, the rules allow public policy managers to choose between bidding or public call, provision by large agribusiness companies or by family farmers, and this is practiced in idiosyncratic ways by 5568 Brazilian municipalities. Each municipality organizes its own system. Therefore, the aim of this article is to analyze how the evolution of Law No. 11,947 promotes expansive learning in the Brazilian National School Feeding Program (NSFP-PNAE), located in the Western Amazon. As a theoretical framework, the Cultural–Historical Activity Theory (CHAT) and the Theory of Expansive Learning (TEL) were used. Qualitative research in an abductive reasoning was carried out, using a single and incorporated case study as its strategy. The study included 21 interviews, later analyzed by Content Analysis. The main contribution is the advance in solutions for societal needs, in terms of continuous collective collaboration, creating expansive learning, transformative or not, in both sides of productive systems and consumption, integrating family farmers and students by a healthy nutrition and feeding in the same system since 2009.
A case of true transsexualism complicated by nervous anorexia with dysmorphomania syndrome
Authors:   Medical Institute, FSAEI HE RUDN, 8Moscow, Russian Federation, Suleimanov Roman Aleksandrovich , Artemieva Marina Stanislavovna ,   Medical Institute, FSAEI HE RUDN, Moscow, Arseniev Aleksandr Romanovich ,   Medical Institute, FSAEI HE RUDN, Moscow
Published: February 2022

The article examines the case history with long-term follow-up tracing of the course and clinical picture of comorbid psychosexual and eating disorders in a patient with true transsexualism complicated by anorexia nervosa with dysmorphomania syndrome.
Informatization of the procedure of medical examination for alcohol or drug intoxication in the Republic of Kazakhstan
Authors:   Astana Medical University, Kusainov Almas Abikhasovich , Rakisheva Ak-Uke Salimzhanovna ,   Astana Medical University, Imanbaeva Aliya Dosymbekovna ,   Astana Medical University, Batyrev Egor Igorevich ,   Peoples' Friendship University of Russia
Published: February 2022

This article is a brief overview of the issue of informatization of narcological practice in the Republic of Kazakhstan, in particular, the informatization of the procedure of medical examination for alcohol or drug intoxication. A brief description of the information system «Electronic Medical Examination System», as well as an analysis of the data collected during its application, is presented.
Public diplomacy of the people's republic of China in the context of post-Afghan events
Authors:   Diplomatic Academy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia, Moscow, Torshin M. P.
Published: February 2022

The article discusses the particular issues of the PRC’s modern public diplomacy. It is widely known that the rapid development of telecommunication technologies in the last decade has contributed to the active informational globalization processes in the modern world. Under these circumstances, the non-state actors’ activity has drastically increased. China is a prime example of effective implementation of such activities into public diplomacy by resorting to the “soft power”, which serves as the foundation of Chinese foreign policy. This article demonstrates the evolution and main stages of public diplomacy development in China. It is highlighted that the Chinese government has designated creating favorable international environment and modernization of the country as the main task of the public diplomacy. The article also demonstrates how the highest governing bodies of the Chinese Communist party and government, as well as specialized “think tanks”, devise the general vector of the foreign policy and public diplomacy both at home and overseas; the aforementioned organizations include the institutions engaged in economic and cultural cooperation, sports and education. Thus, the delegation of devising “soft power” policy to cultural institutions instead of foreign policy oriented organizations constitutes a specific trait of the Chinese public diplomacy. The article highlights issues of China’s economic development and the historical and political place of that country in the world. The main directions and methods of the Chinese public diplomacy are thoroughly analyzed in this article. The Confucius Institute, Chinese cultural centers, mass media, educational systems and numerous Chinese diaspora constitute the major actors of the “soft power”, which methods include such elements as Chinese economic influence and initiatives in Chinese language training. The author also draws attention to the questions regarding the One Belt One Road Initiative and its place in the development of modern economy. The article also analyzes the PRC authorities’ concept of “Community of Common Destiny”, which represents a global project of establishing the new world order. The author indicates that China faces a number of problems with the “soft power” despite significant progress in this sphere. For instance, the global community has its doubts whether Chinese economic aid and trade agreements are implementations of “soft power” or just other forms of political and economic pressure; many developing countries are disapproving of the Chinese investment mechanisms.
Development and external validation of a new clinical prediction model for early recognition of sepsis in adult patients in primary care: a diagnostic study
Authors: Loots Feike J , Smits Marleen , Hopstaken Rogier , Jenniskens Kevin , Schroeten Fleur H , Van den Bruel Ann , van de Pol Alma C , Oosterheert Jan-Jelrik , Bouma Hjalmar , Little Paul , Moore Michael , van Delft Sanne , Rijpsma Douwe , Holkenborg Joris , van Bussel Bas CT , Laven Ralph , Bergmans Dennis CJJ , Hoogerwerf Jacobien J , Latten Gideon , de Bont Eefje , Giesen Paul , den Harder Annemarie , Kusters Ron , van Zanten Arthur , Verheij Theo JM
Published: February 2022

Background: Recognising patients who need immediate hospital treatment for sepsis while simultaneously limiting unnecessary referrals is challenging for GPs. Aim: Develop and validate a sepsis prediction model for adult patients in primary care. Design and setting: Prospective cohort study in four out-of-hours primary care services in the Netherlands, between June 2018 and March 2020. Method: Acutely ill adult patients who received home visits were included. Nine clinical variables were candidate predictors, next to the biomarkers C-reactive protein, procalcitonin, and lactate. The primary endpoint was sepsis within 72 hours of inclusion, as established by an expert panel. Multivariable logistic regression with backwards selection was used to design an optimal model with continuous clinical variables. The added value of the biomarkers was evaluated. Subsequently, a simple model using single cutoff points of continuous variables was developed and externally validated in two emergency department populations. Results: 357 patients were included with a median age of 80 years, of which 151 (42%) were diagnosed with sepsis. A model based on a simple count of one point for each of six variables (age>65 years; temperature>38°C; systolic blood pressure≤110 mmHg; heart rate>110/min; saturation≤95%; altered mental status) had good discrimination and calibration (C statistic of 0.80 [95% CI 0.75-0.84]; Brier score 0.175). Biomarkers did not improve the performance of the model and were therefore not included. The model was robust during external validation. Conclusion: Based on this GP out-of-ours population, a simple model can accurately predict sepsis in acutely ill adult patients using readily available clinical parameters.
Cyclin-dependent Kinase 9 Induces Regional and Global Genomic DNA Methylation Via Influencing DNMT Gene Expression in Mouse Myoblast C2C12 Cells During Differentiation
Authors: Abkhooie Leila , Moradi Sarabi Mostafa , Kahroba Houman , Ghanbarian Hossein , Montazer Saheb Soheila , Tarhriz Vahideh , Hejazi Mohammad Saeid
Published: February 2022

Objectives: Cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) including Cdk9 have been associated with cardiac differentiation. The increasing evidence has proposed that Cdk9 overexpression can regulate the epigenome. However, the current research is the first report of the Cdk9 affection on the regional and global DNA methylation during differentiation. Materials and Methods: This study examined the effects of Cdk9 overexpression on the regional methylation patterns of cardiac miRNAs (miR-1, -133, -206) and myogenic regulatory factors (i.e., MyoD and Myogenin) and promoter DNA methylation in mouse myoblast C2C12 cells during differentiation by the methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction (MSP-PCR) method. Moreover, the mRNA expression levels of DNMT1, DNMT3A, DNMT3B, and global 5-methyl cytosine (5-mC) levels in mouse myoblast C2C12 cells were quantified during differentiation by RT-qPCR and ELISA methods, respectively. Results: The results demonstrated that Cdk9 overexpression results in DNA methylation changes in mouse myoblast C2C12 cells. It was found that the average expression levels of DNMTs in line with global DNA methylation significantly increased in Cdk9 transfected cells upon Cdk9 overexpression (P<0.05). In addition, the results showed that the regional promoter methylation of miR-1 and miR-133 genes increased in transfected cells during differentiation. An interesting possibility raised by our study is that further active global DNA methylation observed in Cdk9-transfected C2C12 cells can be clarified through the increased DNMT expression by Cdk9 in these cells. Conclusions: In general, our study provides a comprehensive mechanism that Cdk9 can promote epigenetic changes and modulate global and regional DNA methylation profiling of myoblast cells during differentiation.
Aníbal:
Authors: Pereyra Alejandra María , Lopéz Machado Marcelo
Published: February 2022

En 1993, la muerte dramática de Aníbal, en el contexto de una intervención inter-institucional, indujo a reflexionar críticamente sobre el papel de la interpretación; sobre sus límites y perspectivas para la misma desde la Antropología y el Trabajo Social. Las implicaciones teórico-metodológicas de la interpretación –que mediatiza toda práctica de intervención– nos orientó a un recorrido a través de los procedimientos que actúan constituyendo un problema (en este caso el representado por Aníbal) para los discursos jurídicos, médicos, psiquiátricos, de los psicólogos y trabajadores sociales que trataron con él; más los familiares que lo marcaron de modo categórico. Más que un “problema”, el caso de Aníbal representó la construcción de una subjetividad dentro de un circuito institucional en que su cuerpo fue “un cuerpo sacrificial”. La dimensión simbólica que adquieren estos discursos entrelazados, forman una trama en que su muerte adquiere una densidad muy significativa. Este es el eje de nuestra revisión actual del caso de Aníbal que pone en jaque la complicidad de las diversas prácticas y discursos intervinientes, en tanto ellos los anticipa, liminarizándolo, su muerte en un circuito institucional. Avanzamos con ello en la profundización y ampliación del concepto de “violencia institucional”.
Entrevista a Myriam Mitjavila
Authors: Mitjavila Myriam
Published: February 2022

Myriam Mitjavila es Trabajadora Social, Doctora en Sociologia por la Universi- dade de São Paulo (Brasil), Docente e investigadora de la Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina (Brasil) y Coordinadora del Núcleo de Estudos e Pesquisas so- bre Profissões e Instituições (NEPPI /UFSC/CNPq). Es especialista en biopolítica, riesgo, salud, saber médico, medicalización y saber psiquiátrico.

Esta entrevista fue realizada por la Lic. Sandra Ripoll en el mes de agosto de 2012, en la Escuela de Trabajo Social de la UNR y la versión que aquí se presenta ha sido revisada y aprobada para su publicación por la Dra. Mitjavila.
Geography of the COVID-19 pandemic and learnings for environmental sustainability
Authors:   Universidade Estadual Júlio Mesquita Filho, Antonio-Vieira Elías , Niño-Castillo Isaías Naú ,   Universidad Autónoma de Guerrero
Published: February 2022

This review article was prepared under the Geography approach and promotes discussions about the contents it studies, which are based on comparative data between the group of publications that addressed aspects of the advent of the Covid-19 pandemic and the group of publications that he related it to environmental sustainability as a prevention of the emergence of other pandemics. When the objective, at the same time, refers to the presentation of the result of the comparison of the approaches used in the publications on the subject, which can serve to formulate deeper reflections of other authors, with the production of new studies and publication of academic articles on the topic addressed. To facilitate understanding of the text, the meanings of terms and concepts used were defined, such as Agenda 2030, sustainable development, Covid-19, Public Health Emergency of International Importance (ESPII), metaphor, mode of production and consumption, new coronavirus (SARS CoV-2), pandemic, public policy, resilience, environmental sustainability and zoonoses. The sample of publications used to compare the aspects derived from the pandemic with the adoption of measures proposed in the objectives and goals of the 2030 Agenda, of sustainable development, was also defined as a guiding tool for the society-nature relationship, for, between other outcomes to prevent recurrence of pandemics.
Cuentos de familia
Authors: Courreges Gabriela
Published: February 2022

“Los cuentos de Gabriela Courreges –según explica el periodista Luis Bruschtein en el prólogo- hablan de esos miedos durante la dictadura y después, a lo largo de un despertar que se estiró muchos años cargado de negaciones, resquemores y culpas”. Este libro reconstruye desde la ficción aquellos años oscuros y lo hace desde un punto de vista original y con muy buena pericia literaria.