bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Responsabilidade pós-consumo de embalagens de agrotóxicos: estudo de caso sobre a logística reversa em Dourados, MS
Authors: Guimarães Verônica Maria Bezerra , Baltha Franciele Roberto Caramit
Published: July 2021

A pesquisa investigou a aplicação do instituto de logística reversa, previsto na Lei n. 12.305/10, Política Nacional de Resíduos Sólidos (PNRS), para embalagens de agrotóxico em Dourados, MS. O trabalho analisou o cumprimento e os principais obstáculos da norma no município. Além da pesquisa teórica, foi realizado um estudo de caso que consistiu em: analisar o cumprimento em nível municipal da PNRS; investigar os principais obstáculos para o cumprimento da PNRS; verificar a atuação dos órgãos de defesa e de fiscalização do setor de logística reversa. Foram feitas visitas e entrevistas semiestruturadas com funcionários de órgãos fiscalizadores. Depreende-se que o setor está consolidado, porém não se observa uma atuação efetiva dos envolvidos no setor para diminuir o uso dos defensivos agrícolas. Além disso, faltam servidores para que a fiscalização seja específica, e não por amostragem, bem como para a coleta de dados e observação de riscos potenciais ao meio ambiente.
A tríade sarcopenia, disfagia e desnutrição em pacientes internados para reabilitação em um hospital de retaguarda
Authors: Fourny Barão Yulle , Mata de Oliveira Rafael Alves , Camposano Calças Natalí , Dias Soares Maruska
Published: July 2021

A tríade sarcopenia, disfagia e desnutrição tem sido estudada devido a sua provável associação. Nos pacientes internados para reabilitação, é possível identificar perdas consideráveis de massa muscular, o que influencia diretamente essas três condições. O estudo objetivou identificar a frequência com que pacientes admitidos para reabilitação, em um hospital de retaguarda, apresentam sarcopenia associada à desnutrição e à disfagia. O trabalho foi do tipo quantitativo, transversal, prospectivo e contou com a participação de 18 pacientes. Foram aplicados questionários e escalas validadas para se rastrear, triar, avaliar ou diagnosticar as complicações temas da pesquisa. A sarcopenia foi diagnosticada em 77,7% (n=14) dos casos; entre esses, 4 (28,6%) apresentaram, concomitantemente, provável disfagia e desnutrição. Ainda, todos os pacientes sem sarcopenia não apresentaram risco nutricional, tampouco distúrbios de deglutição. Sugere-se que a sarcopenia pode ser o fator predisponente à disfagia e à desnutrição, contudo estudos com grupos maiores precisam ser realizados.
Perfil das notificações de câncer relacionado ao trabalho em um hospital referência em oncologia no estado de Mato Grosso do Sul, Brasil
Authors: Lazorek Saldanha da Silva Jackeline , Contrera Luciana , Campos Elen Villegas , Carvalho Alexandra Maria Almeida
Published: July 2021

A Organização Mundial da Saúde (OMS) estimou que, no ano de 2030, são esperados 27 milhões de casos de câncer, 17 milhões de mortes e 75 milhões de pessoas com câncer. Uma em cada seis mortes é relacionada à doença, que apresenta grande impacto em trabalhadores. Este estudo teve o objetivo de analisar as fichas de notificação de câncer relacionado ao trabalho em um hospital de referência em oncologia no estado de Mato Grosso do Sul. Metodologia: estudo quantitativo que analisou fichas de notificação de câncer relacionado ao trabalho (anos de 2015-2017) em um hospital oncológico. Foram analisadas 41 fichas de notificação por meio de estatística descritiva. Resultados: 85,4% eram do gênero masculino; 87,7%, com idade superior a 50 anos (39,0% de 51 a 70 anos e 48,8% acima de 70 anos); 51,2%, da raça branca; 83%, autônomo; e 62,4%, com ocupação rural. O câncer mais notificado foi de pele não melanoma (56,1%) e o de boca, faringe, esôfago e estômago (21,9%).
Coleopterofauna (Insecta: Coleoptera) associated with a planting of Acacia mearnsii
Authors: Alves Saldanha Mateus , Costa Ervandil Corrêa , Machado Leonardo Mortari , Machado Dayanna do Nascimento
Published: July 2021

A acacicultura é uma importante fonte de renda para o Rio Grande do Sul, estando entre as três principais culturas de espécies florestais exóticas presentes no Estado. O objetivo do presente trabalho é analisar quali-quantitativamente as espécies de insetos da Ordem Coleoptera associadas a um plantio de A. mearnsii. Para isso, foram instaladas 36 armadilhas etanólicas de interceptação de voo em um plantio de A. mearnsii, onde foram realizadas quatro coletas quinzenais. Após a coleta, os insetos capturados foram acondicionados em recipientes devidamente identificados e levados ao laboratório para triagem. Foram coletados 440 espécimes de coleópteros, distribuídos em 23 famílias, 82 morfoespécies; destas, 41 foram identificadas em nível de espécie e 41 em nível de gênero. Cerambycidae e Scarabaeidae foram as famílias mais abundantes, perfazendo 32,83% e 12,93% do total de espécimes coletados, respectivamente. Euetheola humilis, com 27 espécimes, teve destaque, sendo a espécie mais abundante.
PENGARUH KEPEMIMPINAN TRANSFORMASIONAL, KEPUASAN KERJA, DAN KOMITMEN ORGANISASIONAL TERHADAP KINERJA KARYAWAN (Studi pada karyawan Hotel Aston Banua)
Authors: Hartanto Didy Agus , Ghalib Saladin , Irwansyah Irwansyah
Published: July 2021

The research objective was to determine the effect of Transformational Leadership on Job Satisfaction and Employee Performance, Organizational Commitment on Job Satisfaction and Employee Performance, Job Satisfaction on Employee Performance, Job Satisfaction as an intervening variable between Transformational Leadership and Employee Performance, and Job Satisfaction as an intervening variable between Organizational Commitments and Employee Performance.The population of the study was all employees totaling 40 people. Data collection using a questionnaire with Likert Scale. Data analysis was performed using the Partial Least Square (PLS) method.The results showed that Transformational Leadership has a significant influence on Job Satisfaction but does not have a significant effect on Employee Performance, Organizational Commitment has a significant effect on Job Satisfaction and Employee Performance, Job Satisfaction has a significant effect on Employee Performance, Job Satisfaction does not have a significant effect as an intervening variable between Transformational Leadership and Employee Performance, Job Satisfaction has a significant influence as an intervening variable between Organizational Commitment and Employee Performance.Keywords : Transformational Leadership, Job Satisfaction, Organizational Commitment, Employee Performance
INTRODUCTION MODEL OF COST PROCESS ACCOUNTING IN HOTEL INDUSTRY
Authors: Janković Sandra
Published: July 2021

Uslužni sektor ubrzo nakon proizvođačkog bilježi implementaciju obračuna troškova procesa. To se posebno odnosi na zdravstvene, financijske, obrazovne, osiguravateljske institucije ali ne i na hotelska pouzeća. Uvođenjem obračuna troškova procesa hotelski menadžeri će znati koja im je usluga najprofitabilnija, koji su gosti najprofitabilniji te koje sve procese konzumiraju određene grupe gostiju. Fokusiranje na procese povećati će kvalitetu usluga i poboljšati profitabilnost tržišnih segmenata hotela. Klasifikacija procesa na one koji stvaraju i koji ne stvaraju vrijednost pridonijeti će da sc dugoročno smanje troškovi nekorisnih procesa, izluče procesi koji uzrokuju nepotrebne troškove, koji su neučinkoviti ili se mogu poboljšati.
COMMUNICATICE GRAMMAR IN GERMAN LANGUAGE TEACHING IN TOURISM
Authors: Blažević Nevenka
Published: July 2021

This article deals with contents of a communicative grammar in German language teaching in tourism. To this purpose a morph syntactic analysis of the chosen corpus was carried out. The analysis has revealed which verbs, substantives, pronouns, adjectives, prepositions and conjunctions in the corpus are especially frequent and in which morphologic forms and collocations they appear. The data for oral and written communication are presented separately. The results of this research serve as basis for a communicative grammar book of German as a foreign language in tourism.
BLOSSOMING OF THE SEA ON SEA BEACHES OF THE RIJEKA BAY
Authors: Knežević Rade , Smolčić Jurdana Dora , Magaš Dragan
Published: July 2021

In this work the blossoming of the sea was researched as well as the influences of the blossoming on tourists. The field of research contains sea becahcs on the coasts of the Rijeka Bay. Rijeka Bay is being watched as a sea surface which is separated from the open sea by the islands of Krk and Cres, and the sea passages Vinodolski kanal, Srednja vrata i Vela vrata. In the paper is pronounced that the blossoming of the sea were registered in the earlier periods, however, that was very rear (in average every sixteen years). The manifestation of blossoming was intensived after 1998, and from 2000 it has been appearing every year. The blossoming is provocted by the fitoplantonic algaes by the eutrofication. In the eutrofication nutrients are involved, which are rarely natural and more frequently antropogenic. Antropogenic nutrients don't stay on one place because they are are a dissolved substance which is extended by the sea movements (mostly sea streams and turbulences). When the sea blossoms, the beaches become deserted and those who are on the beaches bade rarely. Jelly mass is not dangerous in the contact with the skin, however, certain microorganisms which with fitoplanctons create biogeocenosis could be toxic. The biological charaterstics are very familiar, however, the mechanism of blossoming is still not known very much so it is very hard to predict with accuracy the appearance and development of blossoming.
Study on Temperature (τ) Variation for SimCLR based Activity Recognition
Authors: Kumar Pranjal
Published: July 2021

Human Activity Recognition (HAR) is a process to automatically detect human activities based on stream data generated from various sensors, including inertial sensors, physiological sensors, location sensors, cameras, time, and many others. Unsupervised contrastive learning has been excellent, while the contrastive loss mechanism is less studied. In this paper, we provide a temperature (τ) variance study affecting the loss of SimCLR model and ultimately full HAR evaluation results. We focus on understanding the implications of unsupervised contrastive loss in context of HAR data. In this work, also regulation of the temperature(τ) coefficient is incorporated for improving the HAR feature qualities and overall performance for downstream tasks in healthcare setting. Performance boost of 1.3% is observed in experimentation.
Bounds on the sum of (log(p))2 Terms
Authors: Feliksiak Jan
Published: July 2021

In this research paper, we implement the theory of the primorial function, to develop the Supremum and Infimum bounds for the sum of (log(p))2. There are, however, considerable computational difficulties related to these bounds. Therefore, from a pragmatic point of view, a set of Upper and Lower bounds had been developed to bypass this issue. Despite the increased estimation error, the Upper and Lower bounds are still considered sufficiently accurate, while facilitating an easy and fast computation of the estimate of the sum.
Fallopia Japonica and Prunella Vulgaris Inhibit Myopia Progression by Suppressing Akt and NFκB Mediated Inflammatory Reactions
Authors: Lin Chia-Hung , Chen Chih-Sheng , Wang Yao-Chien , Lin En-Shyh , Chang Ching-Yao , Chen Jamie Jiin-Yi , Wu Ming-Yen , Lin Hui-Ju , Wan Lei
Published: July 2021

The increased global incidence of myopia requires the establishment of therapeutic approaches. Previous studies have suggested that inflammation plays an important role in the development and progression of myopia. We used human retinal pigment epithelial cell to study the molecular mechanisms on how FJE and PVE lowering the inflammation of the eye. The effect of FJE and PVE in MFD induced hamster model and explore the role of inflammation cytokines in myopia. Expression levels of IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α were upregulated in retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells treated with IL-6 and TNF-α. FJ extract (FJE) + PV extract (PVE) reduced IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α expression in RPE cells. Furthermore, FJE and PVE inhibited inflammation by attenuating the phosphorylation of protein kinase B (AKT), and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B (NF-κB) pathway. In addition, we report two resveratrol + ursolic acid compounds from FJ and PV and their inhibitory activities against IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α expression levels in RPE cells treated with IL-6 and TNF-α. FJE, PVE, and FJE + PVE were applied to MFD hamsters and their axial length was measured after 21 days. The axial length showed statistically significant differences between phosphate-buffered saline- and FJE-, PVE-, and FJE + PVE-treated MFD eyes. FJE + PVE suppressed expressions of IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α. They also inhibited myopia-related transforming growth factor-beta (TGF)-β1, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, and NF-κB expression while increasing type Ⅰ collagen expression. Overall, these results suggest that FJE + PVE may have a therapeutic effect on myopia and be used as a potential treatment option.
Mechanical and Microscopic Characteristics of Polyurethane-Based Pervious Pavement Composites
Authors: Cho Hongdong , Bae Hongsu , Park Changho , Park Hyeong Min , Oh Seo-Eun , Chung Sang-Yeop , Yang Beomjoo
Published: July 2021

Conventional pervious pavement materials (PPM) consist of cement and aggregate materials and are known for poor durability due to their brittle behavior. Herein, we fabricated polymeric PPMs from durable and abundant polyurethane (PU) to enhance the durability of the material and undertook mechanical and microscopic characterizations. PU-based PPM samples with varying aggregate sizes were produced and the compressive strength and water permeability of each were examined. The pore and tortuosity characteristics of the specimens were analyzed using X-ray micro-computed tomography (micro-CT). Through the micro-CT analysis, the morphological characteristics of the internal structures of PPM were identified and the correlations between the pore size distribution, connectivity, and tortuosity within the specimen were quantitatively analyzed. The microstructures derived from micro-CT were generated as a finite element model and the stress distribution generated inside was numerically determined.
EDUKASI GIZI YANG SEHAT UNTUK PENCEGAHAN STUNTING DI KELURAHAN BENDA BARU KECAMATAN PAMULANG TANGERANG SELATAN
Authors: Rusilanti  , Riska Nur
Published: July 2021

Abstract

The number of malnutrition in Indonesia is considered high with the results of the Nutrition Status Monitoring conducted by the Indonesian Ministry od Health in 2016, the nutritional status of children aged 0-59 months shows the percentage of malnutrition is 3.4% and under nourished is 14.4% (depkes.go.id, 2018). One of the effects of malnutrition is the occurrence of grow short in children or often referred to as stunting. In 2017 22.2% or around 150.8 million toddlers in the world were stunted. The aim of the implementation of the community service program was to develop the welfare section, namely the productivity of the culinary business a manufacture of processed mackerel and soybean through nutrition education to prevent stunting and increase the family economy. The methodology used in this community service program are planning and training productive community partnership programs. The mechanisms for implementing this activity are present material content, and indirect practice. Community service activities that have been carried out in Benda Baru, Pamulang, South Tangerang has been conducted online. The results obtained from the community service program based on of knowledge aspect, there was an increase with a difference of 32.2 obtained from the result of the pre-test and post-test and having skills on several examples of processed food products made from mackerel and soybean which contain high protein to prevent stunting.

Abstrak

Angka gizi buruk di Indonesia terhitung tinggi menurut hasil Pemantauan Status Gizi (PSG) yang dilakukan Kementerian Kesehatan tahun 2016, status gizi balita usia 0-59 bulan menunjukkan persentase gizi buruk sebesar 3,4% dan gizi kurang sebesar 14,4% (depkes.go.id, 2018). Salah satu dampak dari kekurangan gizi adalah terjadinya tumbuh pendek pada anak atau sering disebut dengan stunting. Tahun 2017,  22,2% atau 150,8 juta balita di dunia mengalami stunting. Tujuan dari pelaksanaan program PPM (Pengabdian Pada Masyarakat) ini adalah mengembangkan bidang kesejahteraan yakni produktivitas usaha kuliner berbahan dasar ikan kembung dan kacang kedelai melalui edukasi gizi pencegahan stunting serta dapat menambah perekonomian keluarga. Metodologi yang digunakan pada program PPM ini adalah perencanaan dan pelatihan program kemitraan masyarakat produktif. Mekanisme pelaksanaan kegiatan ini adalah pemberian materi, dan praktek online. Kegiatan PPM yang telah dilaksanakan di Kelurahan Benda Baru, Pamulang, Tangerang Selatan ini telah dilakukan secara online. Hasil yang diperoleh dari program PPM berdasarkan aspek pengetahuan, terjadinya peningkatan dengan selisih 32,2 yang diperoleh dari hasil pre test dan post test serta mempunyai keterampilan tentang beberapa contoh produk olahan makanan berbahan dasar ikan kembung dan kacang kedelai yang mengandung protein tinggi untuk mencegah stunting.
Simultaneous, Ipsilateral Distal Biceps and Distal Triceps Rupture in Healthy Weight Lifter
Authors: Tramer Joseph S , Patel Ravi , Kuhlmann Noah A , Muh Stephanie J
Published: July 2021

Case:

A 38-year-old weight lifter presented with a complete distal biceps rupture with retraction and a near complete ipsilateral distal triceps tear sustained during the bench press exercise. The tendons were fixed operatively using a simultaneous posterior and anterolateral approach to the elbow.

Conclusion:

Simultaneous, ipsilateral distal biceps and distal triceps tendon injury is a rare occurrence that leads to significant functional loss. Repair of distal biceps rupture using a single-incision technique with a cortical button and distal triceps using a double-row suture anchor repair was successful in restoring functional anatomy to our patient.
Return to Paralympic Rowing After Partial Joint Transplantation
Authors: Daud Anser , Safir Oleg A. , Gross Allan , Kuzyk Paul R. T.
Published: July 2021

Case:

A 24-year-old competitive rower suffered a severe road injury to the medial aspect of his knee. He was referred to us for a partial joint transplantation consisting of a medial tibiofemoral fresh osteochondral allograft (FOCA), medial collateral ligament, meniscal allograft, and osteotomy. Two years after reconstruction, the patient won a bronze medal in the Summer Paralympics. At the 6-year follow-up, he demonstrates excellent clinical and radiographic outcomes and high satisfaction.

Conclusion:

For extensive knee injuries with large, complex defects, FOCA with concomitant meniscal allograft transplantation, ligamentous allograft, and osteotomy may be considered in high-demand athletes who wish to return to play.
INTERVENÇÕES EM CORPOS HÍDRICOS E ALTERAÇÕES NO MEIO GEOGRÁFICO: O DESASSOREAMENTO DO CANAL DO PIATÓ – ASSÚ, RIO GRANDE DO NORTE, BRASIL.
Authors: Rocha Joshuá Davinci Nunes , Silva Rafael Pereira da
Published: July 2021

O desassoreamento é uma medida periódica que visa manter a profundidade e o curso do corpo hídrico constante, pois em períodos de baixa pluviosidade o rio pode sofrer por meios antrópicos ou naturais transformações que o torne menos profundo. A deposição de sedimentos ou objetos como lixo em seu leito, contribui para que em momentos de chuvas mais intensas a água que passa pelo canal ultrapasse os limites pré-estabelecidos pelas suas margens. Sendo assim, o presente trabalho busca compreender os impactos  socioambientais causados pelo processo de desassoreamento no canal do Piató. O referido canal está sendo debatido na Câmara Municipal de Assú, sendo que o mesmo já passou por outras intervenções de desassoreamentos, segundo relato de moradores locais, porém  sem sucesso. Fato ocorrido entre as décadas de 40 e 50, pelo então prefeito Edgar Borges Montenegro, nos anos entre 1948 a 1953. Tendo em vista problemas que por ventura podem ser acarretados a partir da realização do desassoreamento do canal, buscaremos compreender os impactos socioambientais decorrentes da recuperação do Canal do Piató. A equipe técnica da SEMARH (Secretaria do Meio Ambiente e Recursos Hídricos do Estado do Rio Grande do Norte), está realizando os estudos topográficos e ambientais in loco para posteriormente, iniciar a reconstrução do sangradouro do Canal do Piató. A SEMARH demonstra preocupação quanto a real possibilidade sobre o abastecimento da Lagoa do Piató pelas águas do canal em períodos chuvosos, ou não, e também qual o melhor local para o início dos trabalhos de desassoreamento dentro do canal do Piató.
ANÁLISE DA EVAPOTRANSPIRAÇÃO POTENCIAL NO MUNICÍPIO DE CAMBARÁ DO SUL/RS
Authors: Santanna Castiglio Vinicius , Campagnolo Karla , Kobiyama Masato
Published: July 2021

A evapotranspiração, como parte do ciclo hidrológico, é classificada em duas categorias: real e potencial, onde a primeira representa a perda natural de água para a atmosfera, e a segunda, retrata condições ótimas de equilíbrio entre a evaporação e a transpiração. Neste trabalho foi caracterizado a evapotranspiração potencial (ETP) pelos métodos de Thornthwaite e Penman modificado e analisados os dados medidos em duas estações meteorológicas instaladas na cidade de Cambará do Sul (RS), no período de outubro/2017 a setembro/2019, e os dados de insolação diária de uma estação convencional para o mesmo período no município de Bom Jesus (RS). Então, foram analisadas as diferenças dos dados medidos de precipitação, temperatura, umidade relativa e velocidade do vento entre as duas estações meteorológicas, bem como da ETP estimada, no qual uma se encontra em uma região de preservação ambiental e a outra em uma área urbanizada. Com o método de Penman modificado, a Estação INMET apresenta uma evapotranspiraçãomédia de 1075 mm/ano e a Estação GPDEN 684 mm/ano. No caso do método de Thornthwaite com os dados da Estação GPDEN, o valor mensal da ETP foi sempre subestimado, com exceção de janeiro. Os resultados obtidos permitem concluir que o método de Penman modificado gera os valores da ETP maiores do que o de Thornthwaite.
The Deterioration of Meibomian Gland Over the Duration of Sjögren Syndrome
Authors: Song Mi Yeon , Noh Sung Rae , Kim Kook Young , Hwang Kyu Yeon , Kwon Young A , Koh Kyungmin
Published: July 2021

Purpose: To investigate the correlation between Sjögren syndrome (SS) duration and ocular surface parameters in patients with SS-related dry eye. Methods: We analyzed 108 eyes of 108 female patients with primary SS-related dry eye. Meibomian gland (MG) dysfunction, MG dropout, lipid layer thickness (LLT), partial and total blinking, and partial blinking rate (PBR) were measured using a LipiView® II ocular surface interferometer (TearScience, Morrisville, NC, USA). All patients underwent rheumatoid serologic tests and ocular surface assessments. The ocular surface assessment included the Standard Patient Evaluation of Eye Dryness (SPEED), Schirmer’s I test, non-invasive tear break-up time, and grading of corneal/conjunctival staining. The correlations between SS duration and MG dropout rates as well as other ocular surface parameters were determined. Results: The mean SS duration was 54.1±41.3 months. There was a strong positive correlation between SS duration and MG dropout (r = 0.766, p < 0.001). The average, maximum, and minimum LLTs showed a weak negative correlation with SS duration (r = -0.310, -0.211, and - 0.304, respectively, p = 0.014, 0.028, and 0.022, respectively) and MG dropout (r = -0.191, -0.326, and -0.299, respectively, p = 0.049, 0.002, and 0.009, respectively). Significant positive correlations were also observed between the SPEED scores and SS duration (r = 0.303, p = 0.042) and MG dropout (r = 0.450, p = 0.029). Conclusions: Longer durations of primary SS-related dry eye were associated with worse MG dysfunction.
Mental Health Literacy and Stigma Towards Patients with Mental Health Disorders Among Pharmacists in the MENA Region
Authors: Batarseh Yazan S , Abukhalaf Mariam , Fakhoury Rula Marwan , Alfalah Laith , Wazaify Mayyada
Published: July 2021

Background –Mental Health Literacy is necessary for pharmacists to provide proper care for mental health patients, however research which assesses mental health literacy among pharmacists in the Middle East and North Africa region is limited.Objective -Evaluate mental health literacy of pharmacists in the Middle East and North Africa region. Methods –An online survey was delivered via social media platforms to a sample of pharmacists Setting - Middle East and North Africa region community, hospital, clinical, and other pharmacy sectors.Main outcome measure -The survey assessed mental health literacy in terms of knowledge, attitude, and stigma in providing care to mental health patients.Results –A total of 372 pharmacists filled in the questionnaire, majority were female (71%) and under 29 years of age (78.7%). Half were community pharmacists. Majority of respondents recognized depression (93.3%), anxiety (63.7%), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (68%). Almost 35% of pharmacists were unable to classify psychiatric medications. Analysis of pharmacists’ attitudes towards different interventions showed the following order of help seeking preference; psychiatrists (83.3%), spiritual activity (59.9%), family support (55.6%), friends support (53%), pharmacists support (40.6%), and social workers (39%). Conclusion –Although baseline knowledge of responding pharmacists regarding mental disorders was adequate, their advanced knowledge of multiple use of intervention was shallow. Stigma was noted in perceived dangerousness and recovery of mental health patients, social responsibility, and social distance.
The Association of Stem Cell Factor and Soluble c-Kit (s-cKit) Receptor Serum Concentrations with the Severity and Risk Prediction of Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Mashayekhi Farhad , Shabani Somayeh , Sasani Soheila Talesh , Salehi Zivar
Published: July 2021

Stem cell factor (SCF) and its receptor (c-kit) signaling play important role in normal brain physiology including neurogenesis, synapse formation and spatial learning function of the hippocampal region of the brain. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is believed to result from abnormal development of neuronal networks and synaptic function. The aim of this study was to evaluate the SCF and its soluble receptor (s-ckit) serum concentrations in ASD. We also studied the serum SCF and s-ckit concentration with the severity of ASD (Levels 1–3; Mild, Moderate and severe, respectively). Ninety five patients with ASD (Mild; n = 33, Moderate; n = 32 and severe; n = 30) and 82 normal controls age matched were included in this study. The serum concentration of SCF and s-ckit were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The SCF serum concentration in control subjects was 3.45 ± 1.06 ng/ml and in ASD was 3.41 ± 0.92 ng/ml (P = 0.88). The serum levels of s-ckit in control and ASD groups were 56.82 ± 13.22 ng/ml and 67.11 ± 12.00, respectively (P = 001). We have also studied serum SCF and s-ckit concentrations with the severity of ASD. The serum concentration of SCF in mild, moderate and severe ASD groups was 3.45 ± 0.93, 3.4 ± 0.87 and 3.43 ± 0.98 ng/ml, respectively (P > 0.05) and for s-ckit was 48.77 ± 9.28, 61.66 ± 12.18 and 93.11 ± 14.81ng/ml, respectively (P < 0.05). The result of this study suggests that serum s-cKit concentrations may provide a reliable and practical indicator of ASD and positively correlated with disease severity. It is also concluded that s-cKit might be involved in the pathophysiology of ASD.
Supralevator Abscess Presenting With Pneumoarthrosis And Retroperitoneal Air, A Case Report
Authors: Ekkel Elisabeth , Hain Jon
Published: July 2021

74-year-old male presented to the emergency department with complaint of fever, weakness, and fatigue and was admitted to the hospital for further workup. The patient was found to have gram negative bacteremia and Clostridioides difficile infection. Computed tomography imaging of the abdomen and pelvis was obtained and demonstrated air in the retroperitoneal/ presacral space tracking to the left hemipelvis and femoral joint. Concern for possible septic joint lead to an Orthopedic surgery evaluation and magnetic resonance imaging of the left hip and pelvis which revealed a complicated perirectal infection tracking to the left hemipelvis. The patient was taken to the operating room with colorectal surgery for further management and treatment.
Burdens of Post-acute Sequelae of COVID-19 by Age, Race, Sex, and Health Status
Authors: Al-Aly Ziyad , Xie Yan , Bowe Benjamin
Published: July 2021

The Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC) have been characterized; however, the burden of PASC remains unknown. And whether the burden of individual sequela varies in different population groups is also not clear. Here we estimate that PASC — defined as the presence of at least one sequela in excess of non-infected controls — was 73.43 (72.10, 74.72) per 1000 persons at 6 months. The burden of PASC was 44.51 (43.09, 45.85), 217.08 (212.43, 222.23), and 360.16 (350.53, 369.38) among non-hospitalized, hospitalized, and those who required intensive care during the first 30-days of infection. Burdens of some sequelae were more pronounced in younger individuals, and some were more pronounced in older adults; the same picture was evident in analyses across race, and sex groups. The burden of individual sequela was consistently higher in people with poorer baseline health and increased in a graded fashion according to care setting of the acute infection. In sum, the burden of PASC is substantial; however, PASC is non-monolithic with sequelae that are differentially expressed in various population groups. Collectively, our results may be useful in informing health systems capacity planning and care strategies of people with PASC.
Relationship between Personality Traits and Eating speed - Results from a large cross-sectional study among Iranian adults
Authors: Kafeshani Marzieh , Feizi Awat , Esmaillzadeh Ahmad , Keshteli Ammar , Roohafza Hamidreza , Afshar Hamid , Adibi Peyman
Published: July 2021

The eating speed has been hypothesized to be associated with energy intake and weight control. Recently, the effects of some factors on eating rate were investigated, however; studies about the impacts of psychological factors in this field are rare. One of these possible factors is personality traits. This study aimed to assess the relationship between personality traits and eating speed. This cross-sectional study was performed among 4763 adults in 2011. Personality trait was assessed by using the Big Five Personality Inventory Short Form. The eating speed was evaluated using a pretested questionnaire and latent class analysis (LCA) was applied to categorize participants according to the eating speed. Multiple binary logistic regression analysis was used for data analyses. We found that the higher levels of neuroticism (quartile 4) were associated significantly with lower odds of normal eating speed (OR: 0.43; 95% CI: 0.31, 0.60; P<0.001) but higher levels of other personality traits were statistically significantly associated with higher odds of normal eating speed. The current study showed significant associations between personality traits and eating speed; accordingly, it provides primary evidence about the potential value of personality traits for managing the eating rate. Further prospective observational and interventional studies are recommended.
The Efficacy, Safety, And Tolerability of Levofloxacin Quadruple Therapy For Helicobacter Pylori Eradication: A Randomized, Double-Blind Clinical Trial
Authors: Mansour-Ghanaei Fariborz , Masihypour Behnam , Fathalipour Mohammad , Hassanipour Soheil , Sokhanvar Homayoon , Mansour-Ghanaei Alireza , Asgharnezhad Mehrnaz , Joukar Farahnaz
Published: July 2021

The incidence of microbial resistance is increasing, and new rescue regimens are needed in order to treat Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection. To evaluate the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of levofloxacin based quadruple therapies in the eradication of H. pylori. In a randomized, double-blind clinical trial, 220 patients with dyspepsia and H. pylori infection were randomly assigned to receive either bismuth subcitrate 240 mg, pantoprazole 20 mg, amoxicillin 1000 mg twice a day, and levofloxacin 500 mg daily for seven days (BPAL-7), or ten days (BPAL-10). The eradication of H. pylori was evaluated two months after the end of treatment, and adverse drug reactions (ADRs) were assessed during the intervention. According to intention-to-treat and per-protocol, the eradication rate was significantly lower in the BPAL-7 regimen 49.1 % (95 % CI: 39.3-57.8) and 47.6 % (95 % CI: 39.7-58.4), respectively compared to the BPAL- 10 regimen 62.7 % (95 % CI: 53.6-72.8) and 62.4 % (95 % CI: 55.1-72.8), respectively. The incidence of ADRs was not statistically significant between BPAL-7 (33.6 %) and BPAL-10 (36.7 %) groups. Although the ADRs were negligible in both groups, these regimens could not be an ideal alternative therapy for H. pylori because of low eradication rates compared to standard regimens.Trial registration: The study reviewed and approved by the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT201406141155N19).
A robust novel approach for dynamic energy management of smart grids in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Ghosh Ramkrishna
Published: July 2021

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Congenital Central Hypoventilation Syndrome Caused by A de novo RET Pathogenic Variant
Authors: Silvestri Paola , Pizzuti Antonio , Rinaldi Paolo , Giansanti Veronica , Russo Giusy , Spalice Alberto , Schiavetti Amalia
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Congenital central hypoventilation syndrome (CCHS) is a rare life-threatening disorder characterized by a failure in physiologic autonomic control of breathing resulting in apnoea, hypoxemia, and hypoventilation episodes, associated to a large spectrum of autonomic nervous system dysfunctions. Despite this condition is most likely caused by mutations in the PHOX2B gene, other genes have been found responsible for CCHS in rare cases. Case report: We report a 15-month-old toddler presenting episodes of central and obstructive apnoea with cyanosis, hypertonia, hypercapnia, and cyanotic breath-holding spells. The CCHS diagnosis was supported by central desaturating apnoea/hypopneas episodes during rapid eye movement sleep and obstructive apnoea in polysomnography, as well as by the presence of hypoxia and hypercapnia in arterial blood gas during critical episodes. Autonomic dysregulation with sporadic profuse sweating and gastrointestinal dysmotility resulting in gastro-oesophageal reflux and chronic constipation were also associated. Next Generation Sequencing revealed the missense variant p.Met918Thr in the RET gene.Conclusion: This case, identifying a de novo pathogenic variant in the RET gene, highlights the importance of using clinical exome sequencing or a panel of genes associated with the specific disease, rather than looking for mutations in the single most frequently correlated gene.
A Higher-Order Accurate Operator Splitting Spectral Method for The Wigner-Poisson System
Authors: Chen Zhenzhu , Shao Sihong
Published: July 2021

An accurate description of 2-D quantum transport in a double-gate metal oxide semiconductor filed effect transistor (dgMOSFET) requires a high-resolution solver to a coupled system of the 4-D Wigner equation and 2-D Poisson equation. In this paper, we propose an operator splitting spectral method to evolve such Wigner-Poisson (WP) system in 4-D phase space with high accuracy. After an operator splitting of the Wigner equation, the resulting two sub-equations can be solved analytically with spectral approximation in phase space. Meanwhile, we adopt a Chebyshev spectral method to solve the Poisson equation. Spectral convergence in phase space and a fourth-order accuracy in time are both numerically verified. Finally, we apply the proposed solver into simulating dgMOSFET, develop the steady states from long-time simulations and obtain numerically converged current-voltage (I-V) curves.
Prospective cohort study reveals MMP-9, a neuroplasticity regulator, as a prediction marker of cochlear implantation outcome in prelingual deafness treatment.
Authors: Matusiak Monika , Oziębło Dominika , Ołdak Monika , Rejmak Emilia , Kaczmarek Leszek , Skarżyński Piotr Henryk , Skarżyński Henryk
Published: July 2021

Because of vast variability of cochlear implantation outcomes in prelingual deafness treatment, identification of good and poor performers remains a challenging task. To address this issue, we investigated genetic variants of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) and brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and plasma levels of MMP-9, BDNF, and pro-BDNF that have all been implicated in neuroplasticity after sensory deprivation in the auditory pathway. We recruited a cohort of prelingually deaf children, all implanted before the age of 2, and carried out a prospective observation (N = 61). Next, we analyzed the association between (i) functional MMP9 (rs20445, rs1839242, rs2234681) and BDNF (rs6265) gene variants (and their respective protein levels) and (ii) the child’s auditory development as measured with the LittlEARS Questionnaire (LEAQ) before cochlear implant (CI) activation and at 8 and 18 months post-CI activation. Statistical analyses revealed that the plasma level of MMP-9 measured at implantation in prelingually deaf children was significantly correlated with the LEAQ score 18 months after CI activation. In the subgroup of DFNB1-related deafness (N = 40), rs3918242 of MMP9 was significantly associated with LEAQ score at 18 months after CI activation; also, according to a multiple regression model, the ratio of plasma levels of pro-BDNF/BDNF measured at implantation was a significant predictor of overall LEAQ score at follow-up. In the subgroup with DFNB1-related deafness, who had CI activation after 1 year old (N = 22), a multiple regression model showed that rs3918242 of MMP9 was a significant predictor of overall LEAQ score at follow-up.
Intraspecific Genetic Distance and Phylogenetic Evolution of Schizothorax Plagiostomus Inferred from Mitochondrial D-Loop Sequences
Authors: Akhtar Tasleem , Musthafa Muneeb M. , Sehar Noor Us , Ali Ghazanfar
Published: July 2021

The fish in the genus Schizothorax from the Cyprinidae family live in high-altitude Rivers andstreams, are threatened by various anthropogenic stressors. This study aims to characterize S. plagiostomus across Pakistan and throughout the world available on NCBI using the mitochondrial D-loop region, and in particular, to assess the degree of intra-specific pairwise distance among these sequences, as well as to establish their phylogenetic relationships. The percent overall nucleotide composition was 32.6% (A), 33.6% (T), 19.8% (C), and 14.0% (G), which infers that S. plagiostomus control regions is AT-rich (66.2%) and poor in G contents. The mean pair-wise intra-specific nucleotide diversity (Pi)of all the S. plagiostomus was 0.022. While, the inter-specific nucleotide diversity of all the Schizothorax species was 0.049. D-loop sequences for intra-specific variations revealed 765 sites were invariable and 10 were variable, 8 parsimony informative sites and only 2 were singletons. The overall transition/transversion ratio is R = 7.135. Three domains in S. plagiostomus were observed, namely, the termination associated sequence (TAS) domain, the central conserved sequence block (CSB) domain, and the conserved sequence block (CSB) domain. No substitution saturation was detected as an Iss value was significantly (𝑃< 0.001) lower than the Iss.c in all cases indicating the suitability of the data for phylogenetic analysis. This study signifies the importance of the control region for the genetic analysis of S. plagiostomus and also provides a hypothesis of their phylogenetic relationships.
Dental pulp stem cells as a therapy for congenital entero-neuropathy
Authors: Kajioka Shunichi , Yoshizumi Junko , Oda Yoshinao , Iwata Naoko , Takai Chiho , Nakayama Shinsuke
Published: July 2021

Hirschsprung’s disease (HSCR) and its allied disorders are congenital entero-neuropathies with life-long implications in many cases. Here we report the effects of intravenous transplantation of cultured dental pulp stem cells derived from deciduous teeth (dDPSCs) into ‘Japanese fancy-1’ (JF1) mice with entero-neuropathy caused by Ednrb mutation. Intravenously injected dDPSCs (multipotent neural crest cells with low immunogenicity) migrated to affected regions of the intestine through interactions between stromal cell-derived factor-1α and C-X-C chemokine receptor type-4. Notably, transplanted dDPSCs differentiated into both enteric neurons and pacemaker interstitial cells to correct abnormalities in the electrical and mechanical activities of the proximal colon. dDPSC transplantation also led to repair of the small intestinal mucosa, changes in the gastrointestinal microbiota, improvements in nutritional status and prolongation of survival. We anticipate that dDPSC transplantation could be developed into a novel cell-based therapy for HSCR and its allied disorders.
Post-harvest Sensory Characteristics and Consumer Acceptance of Vegetable Pigeonpea
Authors: Ojwang David , Nyankanga R.O. , Imungi J. , Gangarao N. , Modesto Olanya
Published: July 2021

Pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan Milsp) is an important food crop in the dryland tropics. The objective of this research was to evaluate the effects of post-harvest processing and storage on sensory characteristics of pigeonpea. Moisture content of harvested pigeonpeas was assessed at 0. 22 and 60 days of storage. Five treatments of podded, deep-frozen (-18°C), blanched (72°C, 2min), oven-dried (65°C, 8hr), and blanched + oven-dried pigeonpea, in a completely randomized design were evaluated for sensory characteristics at post-harvest storage. The reduction in moisture content was highest (43%) in podded and lowest (6%) on blanched pigeonpea at 60 days of storage. Consumer acceptance of pigeonpea varied significantly (P < 0.05) for traits of physical appearance, color, aroma, and seed tenderness. Physical appearance of podded pigeonpea had a sensory rating of 6.3, indicating high acceptability, while blanched samples had a 6.0 rating on a 7-point hedonic scale. The podded, blanched + oven-dried and seed tenderness had 5.6, 6.6, and 6.1 scores, respectively. The sensory scores of podded and oven-dried were attributed to high sugar concentrations (4.25 mg/100g) the samples at 22 days post pre-treatment. Palatability and overall acceptance of pigeonpea were comparable, indicating that post-harvest treatment and 22-day storage had positive sensory attributes. Post-harvest processing treatment and storage may enhance vegetable pigeonpea utilization in the dryland regions.
Clear anti-phase tendency of volcanic eruptions and consistent U.S. Dollar Index response to volcanic forcing
Authors: Hwang Seokhwan
Published: July 2021

Numerous studies have presented statistical relations between large volcanic eruptions and ensuing El Niño events or between El Niño events and local economies. However, the relation between volcanic eruptions and economies has not been completely clarified. This study compares volcanic eruptions and the U.S. Dollar Index for the past 54 years (1967–2020) to identify significant economic responses to volcanic activity. There is a clear anti-phase tendency between the volcanic eruptions of the western Pacific and those of the eastern Pacific. And volcanic eruptions and U.S. Dollar Index exhibit a strong correlation and U.S. Dollar Index follows the fluctuation trend of volcanic eruptions with a 1-year delay. Thus, results indicate that changes in forces within the earth due to volcanic eruptions continuously impact the global economy. This study identifies a teleconnection between heterogeneous factors that had not been previously reported and provides a new scientific clue regarding the mechanism how has geodynamics affected the human life.
Application of Artificial Neural Networks to Project Reference Evapotranspiration under Climate Change Scenarios
Authors: Maqsood Junaid , Farooque Aitazaz A. , Abbas Farhat , Esau Travis , Wang Xander , Acharya Bishnu , Afzaal Hassan
Published: July 2021

Evapotranspiration, one of the major elements of the water cycle, is sensitive to climate change. The main objective of this study was to examine the response of reference evapotranspiration (ET0) under various climate change scenarios using artificial neural networks and a general circulation model (GCM) - the Canadian Earth System Model Second Generation (CanESM2). The Hargreaves method was used to calculate ET0 for western, central, and eastern parts of Prince Edward Island. The two input parameters of the Hargreaves method; daily maximum temperature (Tmax), and daily minimum temperature (Tmin) were projected using CanESM2. The Tmax and Tmin were downscaled with the help of statistical downscaling and simulation model (SDSM) for three future periods 2020s (2011–2040), 2050s (2041–2070), and 2080s (2071–2100) under three representative concentration pathways (RCP’s) including RCP 2.6, RCP P4.5, and RCP 8.5, and the. Temporally, there were major changes in Tmax, Tmin, and ET0 for the 2080s under RCP8.5. The temporal variations in ET0 for all RCPs matched the reports in the literature for other similar locations and for RCP8.5 it ranged from 1.63 (2020s) to 2.29 mm/day (2080s). As a next step, a one-dimensional convolutional neural network (1D-CNN), long-short term memory (LSTM), and multilayer perceptron (MLP) were used for estimating ET0 due to the non-linear behavior of ET0 and the limited meteorological input data. High coefficient of correlation (r > 0.95) values for both calibration and validation periods showed the potential of the artificial neural networks in ET0 estimation. The results of this study will help decision makers and water resource managers to quantify the availability of water in future for the island and to optimize the use of island water resources on a sustainable basis.