bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of circuit training or a nutritional intervention on body mass index and other cardiometabolic outcomes in children and adolescents with overweight or obesity
Authors: Seo Young-Gyun , Lim Hyunjung , Kim YoonMyung , Ju Young-Su , Choi Yong-jun , Lee Hye-Ja , Jang Han Byul , Park Sang Ick , Park Kyung Hee
Published: January 2021

Objective

We aimed to assess the effectiveness of the first 6 months of a 24 month multidisciplinary intervention program including circuit training and a balanced diet in children and adolescents with obesity.

Methods

A quasi-experimental intervention trial included 242 participants (age [mean±standard deviation]: 11.3±2.06 years, 97 girls) of at least 85th percentile of age- and sex-specific body mass index (BMI). Participants were grouped into three to receive usual care (usual care group), exercise intervention with circuit training (exercise group), or intensive nutritional and feedback intervention with a balanced diet (nutritional group). Primary outcome was BMI z-score, while secondary outcomes included body composition, cardiometabolic risk markers, nutrition, and physical fitness.

Results

Among the participants, 80.6% had a BMI ≥ the 97th percentile for age and sex. The BMI z-score of the overall completers decreased by about 0.080 after 6 months of intervention (p < 0.001). After the intervention, both exercise and nutritional groups had significantly lower BMI z-scores than the baseline data by about 0.14 and 0.075, respectively (p < 0.05). Significant group by time interaction effects were observed between exercise versus usual care group in BMI z-score (β, -0.11; 95% confidence interval (CI), -0.20 to -0.023) and adiponectin (β, 1.31; 95% CI, 1.08 to 1.58); and between nutritional versus usual care group in waist circumference (β, -3.47; 95% CI, -6.06 to -0.89). No statistically significant differences were observed in any of the other secondary outcomes assessed.

Conclusion

Multidisciplinary intervention including circuit training and a balanced diet for children and adolescents with obesity reduced the BMI z-score and improved cardiometabolic risk markers such as adiponectin and waist circumference.
Synergistic effect and ultrastructural changes in Trypanosoma cruzi caused by isoobtusilactone A in short exposure of time
Authors: de Almeida Júlio Menta , Nunes Felipe Oliveira , Ceole Lígia Fernanda , Klimeck Tabata D’Maiella Freitas , da Cruz Letícia Alves , Tófoli Danilo , Borges Beatriz Santana , Garcez Walmir Silva , Tozetti Inês Aparecida , Medeiros Lia Carolina Soares , Garcez Fernanda Rodrigues , Ferreira Alda Maria Teixeira
Published: January 2021

Butanolides have shown a variety of biological effects including anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiprotozoal effects against certain strains of Trypanosoma cruzi. Considering the lack of an effective drug to treat T. cruzi infections and the prominent results obtained in literature with this class of lactones, we investigated the anti-T. cruzi activity of five butanolides isolated from two species of Lauraceae, Aiouea trinervis and Mezilaurus crassiramea. Initially, the activity of these compounds was evaluated on epimastigote forms of the parasite, after a treatment period of 4 h, followed by testing on amastigotes, trypomastigotes, and mammalian cells. Next, the synergistic effect of active butanolides against amastigotes was evaluated. Further, metacyclogenesis inhibition and infectivity assays were performed for the most active compound, followed by ultrastructural analysis of the treated amastigotes and trypomastigotes. Among the five butanolides studied, majoranolide and isoobtusilactone A were active against all forms of the parasite, with good selectivity indexes in Vero cells. Both butanolides were more active than the control drug against trypomastigote and epimastigote forms and also had a synergic effect on amastigotes. The most active compound, isoobtusilactone A, which showed activity against all tested strains inhibited metacyclogenesis and infection of new host cells. In addition, ultrastructural analysis revealed that this butanolide caused extensive damage to the mitochondria of both amastigotes and trypomastigotes, resulting in severe morphological changes in the infective forms of the parasite. Altogether, our results highlight the potential of butanolides against the etiologic agent of Chagas disease and the relevance of isoobtusilactone A as a strong anti-T. cruzi drug, affecting different events of the life cycle and all evolutionary forms of parasite after a short period of exposure.
Trans and gender diverse people’s experiences of healthcare access in Australia: A qualitative study in people with complex needs
Authors: Haire Bridget Gabrielle , Brook Eloise , Stoddart Rohanna , Simpson Paul
Published: January 2021

Introduction

This study aimed to explore the experiences of healthcare access in a diverse sample of trans and gender diverse individuals with complex needs using qualitative methods. We recruited 12 individuals using trans community-based networks facilitated by the Gender Centre. Each individual participated in an in-depth, semi structured interview conducted by a peer interviewer. Interviews were analysed thematically.

Findings

Participants had a range of complex health needs to manage, including ongoing access to gender-affirming hormones, mental health care and sexual health care. Some also had chronic diseases. Accordingly, scheduling appointments and affording the co-payments required were major preoccupations. Most participants were not in full time work, and economic hardship proved to be a major compounding factor in issues of healthcare access, impacting on the choice of clinician or practice. Other barriers to accessing health included issues within health services, such as disrespectful attitudes, misgendering, ‘deadnaming’ (calling the person by their previous name), displaying an excessive interest is aspects of the participants’ life that were irrelevant to the consultation, and displaying ignorance of trans services such that the participants felt an obligation to educate them. In addition, participants noted how stereotyped ideas of trans people could result in inaccurate assumptions about their healthcare needs. Positive attributes of services were identified as respectful communication styles, clean, welcoming spaces, and signs that indicated professionalism, care and openness, such as relevant information pamphlets and visibility of LGBTIQ service orientation. Participants valued peer-based advice very highly, and some would act on and trust medical advice from peers above advice from medical professionals.

Conclusion

These findings demonstrate a need for comprehensive wrap-around service provision for trans people with complex needs which includes a substantial peer-based component, and addresses physical and mental health and social services conveniently and affordably.
Early evidence of royal purple dyed textile from Timna Valley (Israel)
Authors: Sukenik Naama , Iluz David , Amar Zohar , Varvak Alexander , Shamir Orit , Ben-Yosef Erez
Published: January 2021

In the context of a broad study aimed at examining dyeing technologies in the Timna textiles collection, three samples of prestigious fibers dyed with murex sea snail were identified. Our identification is based on the presence of6-monobromoindigotinand6,6-dibromoindigotincomponents (detected using HPLC analysis), which is considered unequivocal evidence for the use of murex-derived purple dyestuff. Furthermore, by comparing the analytical results with those obtained in a series of controlled dyeing experiments we were able to shed more light on the specific species used in the dyeing process and glean insights into the ancient dyeing technology. The samples originated from excavations at the extensive Iron Age copper smelting site of “Slaves’ Hill” (Site 34), which is tightly dated by radiocarbon to the late 11th–early 10thcenturies BCE. While evidence for the important role of purple dyes in the ancient Mediterranean goes back to the Middle Bronze Age (early 2ndmillennium BCE), finds of dyed textiles are extremely rare, and those from Timna are the oldest currently known in the Southern Levant. In conjunction with other observations of the very high quality of the Timna textiles, this provides an exceptional opportunity to address questions related to social stratification and organization of the nomadic society operating the mines (early Edom), the “fashion” of elite in the region during the early Iron Age, trade connections, technological capabilities, and more.
SARS-CoV-2 infection in asymptomatic healthcare workers at a clinic in Chile
Authors: Olmos Claudio , Campaña Gonzalo , Monreal Victor , Pidal Paola , Sanchez Nannet , Airola Constanza , Sanhueza Dayan , Tapia Patricio , Muñoz Ana María , Corvalan Felipe , Hurtado Sebastian , Meneses Claudio , Orellana Ariel , Montecino Martin , Arriagada Gloria , Bustos Fernando Jose
Published: January 2021

Asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection of healthcare workers (HCWs) has been reported as a key player in the nosocomial spreading of COVID-19. Early detection of infected HCWs can prevent spreading of the virus in hospitals among HCWs and patients. We conducted a cross-sectional study to determine the asymptomatic infection of HCWs in a private clinic in the city of Santiago, Chile. Our study was conducted during a period of 5 weeks at the peak of transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in Chile. Nasopharyngeal samples were obtained from 413 HCWs and tested for the presence of SARS-CoV-2 using RT-qPCR. We found that a 3.14% of HCWs were positive for the presence of SARS-CoV-2 (14/413). Out of these, 7/14 were completely asymptomatic and did not develop symptoms within 3 weeks of testing. Sequencing of viral genomes showed the predominance of the GR clade; however, sequence comparison demonstrated numerous genetic differences among them suggesting community infection as the main focus of transmission among HCWs. Our study demonstrates that the protocols applied to protect HCWs and patients have been effective as no infection clusters due to asymptomatic carriers were found in the clinic. Together, these data suggest that infection with SARS-CoV-2 among HCWs of this health center is not nosocomial.
Sustainability planning in the US response to the opioid crisis: An examination using expert and text mining approaches
Authors: Gallo Carlos , Abram Karen , Hannah Nanette , Caton Lauren , Cimaglio Barbara , McGovern Mark , Brown C. Hendricks
Published: January 2021

Between January 2016 and June 2020, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration rapidly distributed $7.5 billion in response to the U.S. opioid crisis. These funds are designed to increase access to medications for addiction treatment, reduce unmet treatment need, reduce overdose death rates, and provide and sustain effective prevention, treatment and recovery activities. It is unclear whether or not the services developed using these funds will be sustained beyond the start-up period. Based on 34 (64%) State Opioid Response (SOR) applications, we assessed the states’ sustainability plans focusing on potential funding sources, policies, and quality monitoring. We found variable commitment to sustainability across response plans with less than half the states adequately describing sustainability plans. States with higher proportions of opioid prescribing, opioid misuse, and poverty had somewhat higher scores on sustainment. A text mining/machine learning approach automatically rated sustainability in SOR applications with an 82% accuracy compared to human ratings. Because life saving evidence-based programs and services may be lost, intentional commitment to sustainment beyond the bolus of start-up funding is essential.
Turning preference in dogs: North attracts while south repels
Authors: Adámková Jana , Benediktová Kateřina , Svoboda Jan , Bartoš Luděk , Vynikalová Lucie , Nováková Petra , Hart Vlastimil , Painter Michael S. , Burda Hynek
Published: January 2021

It was shown earlier that dogs, when selecting between two dishes with snacks placed in front of them, left and right, prefer to turn either clockwise or counterclockwise or randomly in either direction. This preference (or non-preference) is individually consistent in all trials but it is biased in favor of north if they choose between dishes positioned north and east or north and west, a phenomenon denoted as “pull of the north”. Here, we replicated these experiments indoors, in magnetic coils, under natural magnetic field and under magnetic field shifted 90° clockwise. We demonstrate that "pull of the north" was present also in an environment without any outdoor cues and that the magnetic (and not topographic) north exerted the effect. The detailed analysis shows that the phenomenon involves also "repulsion of the south". The clockwise turning preference in the right-preferring dogs is more pronounced in the S-W combination, while the counterclockwise turning preference in the left-preferring dogs is pronounced in the S-E combination. In this way, south-placed dishes are less frequently chosen than would be expected, while the north-placed dishes are apparently more preferred. Turning preference did not correlate with the motoric paw laterality (Kong test). Given that the choice of a dish is visually guided, we postulate that the turning preference was determined by the dominant eye, so that a dominant right eye resulted in clockwise, and a dominant left eye in counterclockwise turning. Assuming further that magnetoreception in canines is based on the radical-pair mechanism, a "conflict of interests" may be expected, if the dominant eye guides turning away from north, yet the contralateral eye "sees the north", which generally acts attractive, provoking body alignment along the north-south axis.
Rebamipide ameliorates indomethacin-induced small intestinal damage and proton pump inhibitor-induced exacerbation of this damage by modulation of small intestinal microbiota
Authors: Tanigawa Tetsuya , Watanabe Toshio , Higashimori Akira , Shimada Sunao , Kitamura Hiroyuki , Kuzumoto Takuya , Nadatani Yuji , Otani Koji , Fukunaga Shusei , Hosomi Shuhei , Tanaka Fumio , Kamata Noriko , Nagami Yasuaki , Taira Koichi , Shiba Masatsugu , Suda Wataru , Hattori Masahira , Fujiwara Yasuhiro
Published: January 2021

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) induce small intestinal damage. It has been reported that rebamipide, a mucoprotective drug, exerts a protective effect against NSAID-induced small intestinal damage; however, the underlying mechanism remains unknown. In this study, we investigated the significance of the small intestinal microbiota in the protective effect of rebamipide against indomethacin-induced small intestinal damage in mice. A comprehensive analysis of the 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed an alteration in the composition of the small intestinal microbiota at the species level, modulated by the administration of rebamipide and omeprazole. The transplantation of the small intestinal microbiota of the mice treated with rebamipide suppressed the indomethacin-induced small intestinal damage. Omeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor, exacerbated the indomethacin-induced small intestinal damage, which was accompanied by the alteration of the small intestinal microbiota. We found that the transplantation of the small intestinal microbiota of the rebamipide-treated mice ameliorated indomethacin-induced small intestinal damage and the omeprazole-induced exacerbation of the damage. These results suggest that rebamipide exerts a protective effect against NSAID-induced small intestinal damage via the modulation of the small intestinal microbiota, and that its ameliorating effect extends also to the exacerbation of NSAID-induced small intestinal damage by proton pump inhibitors.
Risk factors for mortality of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) patients in two centers of Hubei province, China: A retrospective analysis
Authors: Zhang Xiao-Bin , Hu Lan , Ming Quan , Wei Xiao-Jie , Zhang Zhen-Yu , Chen Li-Da , Wang Ming-Hui , Yao Weng-Zhen , Huang Qiu-Fen , Ye Zhang-Qiang , Cai Yu-Qing , Zeng Hui-Qing
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Since the outbreak in late December 2019 in Wuhan, China, coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) has become a global pandemic. We analyzed and compared the clinical, laboratory, and radiological characteristics between survivors and non-survivors and identify risk factors for mortality.

Methods

Clinical and laboratory variables, radiological features, treatment approach, and complications were retrospectively collected in two centers of Hubei province, China. Cox regression analysis was conducted to identify the risk factors for mortality.

Results

A total of 432 patients were enrolled, and the median patient age was 54 years. The overall mortality rate was 5.09% (22/432). As compared with the survivor group (n = 410), those in the non-survivor group (n = 22) were older, and they had a higher frequency of comorbidities and were more prone to suffer from dyspnea. Several abnormal laboratory variables indicated that acute cardiac injury, hepatic damage, and acute renal insufficiency were detected in the non-survivor group. Non-surviving patients also had a high computed tomography (CT) score and higher rate of consolidation. The most common complication causing death was acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) (18/22, 81.8%). Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that hemoglobin (Hb) <90 g/L (hazard ratio, 10.776; 95% confidence interval, 3.075–37.766; p<0.0001), creatine kinase (CK-MB) >8 U/L (9.155; 2.424–34.584; p = 0.001), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) >245 U/L (5.963; 2.029–17.529; p = 0.001), procalcitonin (PCT) >0.5 ng/ml (7.080; 1.671–29.992; p = 0.008), and CT score >10 (39.503; 12.430–125.539; p<0.0001) were independent risk factors for the mortality of COVID-19.

Conclusions

Low Hb, high LDH, PCT, and CT score on admission were the predictors for mortality and could assist clinicians in early identification of poor prognosis among COVID-19 patients.
Design of a diagnostic system based on molecular markers derived from the ascomycetes pan-genome analysis: The case of Fusarium dieback disease
Authors: Vázquez-Rosas-Landa Mirna , Sánchez-Rangel Diana , Hernández-Domínguez Eric E. , Pérez-Torres Claudia-Anahí , López-Buenfil Abel , de Jesús García-Ávila Clemente , Carrillo-Hernández Edgar-David , Castañeda-Casasola Cynthia-Coccet , Rodríguez-Haas Benjamín , Pérez-Lira Josué , Villafán Emanuel , Alonso-Sánchez Alexandro , Ibarra-Laclette Enrique
Published: January 2021

A key factor to take actions against phytosanitary problems is the accurate and rapid detection of the causal agent. Here, we develop a molecular diagnostics system based on comparative genomics to easily identify fusariosis and specific pathogenic species as theFusarium kuroshium, the symbiont of the ambrosia beetleEuwallaceae kuroshioGomez and Hulcr which is responsible forFusariumdieback disease in San Diego CA, USA. We performed a pan-genome analysis using sixty-three ascomycetes fungi species including phytopathogens and fungi associated with the ambrosia beetles. Pan-genome analysis revealed that 2,631 orthologue genes are only shared byFusariumspp., and on average 3,941 (SD ± 1,418.6) are species-specific genes. These genes were used for PCR primer design and tested on DNA isolated fromi)different strains of ascomycete species,ii)artificially infected avocado stems andiii)plant tissue of field-collected samples presumably infected. Our results let us propose a useful set of primers to either identify any species fromFusariumgenus or, in a specific manner, species such asF.kuroshium,F.oxysporum, andF.graminearum. The results suggest that the molecular strategy employed in this study can be expanded to design primers against different types of pathogens responsible for provoking critical plant diseases.
Understanding wildlife crime in China: Socio-demographic profiling and motivation of offenders
Authors: Shao Mei-Ling , Newman Chris , Buesching Christina D. , Macdonald David W. , Zhou Zhao-Min
Published: January 2021

Wildlife crime presents a growing threat to the integrity of ecological communities. While campaigns have raised consumer awareness, little is known about the socio-demographic profile of wildlife offenders, or how to intervene. Using data from China Judgements Online (2014–2018), we documented 4,735 cases, involving 7,244 offenders who smuggled, hunted, transported, sold and/or purchased protected species in contravention of China’s Criminal Law. Offenders were predominantly men (93.0% of 7,143 offenders), aged 30–44 (43.9% of 4,699), agricultural workers (48.4% of 3,960), with less schooling (78.6% of 4,699 < senior secondary school). Socio-economic profiles related to crime seriousness, the type of illegal activity, motivation and taxon involved. These generalizations reveal scope to tailor specific intervention and mitigation approaches to offender profiles, through public information campaigns, proactive incentives opposed by punitive disincentives, and provision of alternative incomes.
Predicting changes in cataract surgery health outcomes using a cataract surgery appropriateness and prioritization instrument
Authors: Lim Morgan E. , Minotti Simona C. , D’Silva Chelsea , Reid Robert J. , Schlenker Matthew B. , Ahmed Iqbal K.
Published: January 2021

Objective

Determine whether items in a cataract surgery appropriateness and prioritization questionnaire can predict change in best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and health related quality of life (HRQOL) following cataract surgery.

Methods

313 patients with a cataract in Ontario, Canada were recruited to participate. BCVA was measured using the Snellen chart. HRQOL was measured using a generic instrument (EQ5D), a visual functioning instrument (Catquest-9SF), and an appropriateness and prioritization instrument (17 items). Outcomes were measured preoperatively and 3–6 months postoperatively. Descriptive statistics were used to describe demographics and outcomes. For each appropriateness and prioritization questionnaire item, a one-way ANOVA was used to compare group means of the change in BCVA, EQ5D, and Catquest-9SF.

Results

Participants had a mean age of 69 years and were 56% female. BCVA improved in 81%, EQ5D in 49.6%, and Catquest-9SF score in 84% of patients. Improvement in both BCVA and Catquest-9SF scores were found in 68.5% of patients. The ANOVA showed a statistically significant association between a change in BCVA and the ability to participate in social life, and a statistically significant association between a change in Catquest-9SF and glare, extent of impairment in visual function, safety and injury concerns, ability to work and care for dependents, ability to take care of local errands, ability to assist others and ability to participate in social life.

Conclusions

Almost all patients had improved BCVA and/or visual functioning after surgery. Seven variables from the cataract appropriateness and prioritization instrument were found to be predictors of improvement in Catquest-9SF measuring visual functioning.
Quantifying the dose-dependent impact of intracellular amyloid beta in a mathematical model of calcium regulation in xenopus oocyte
Authors: Minicucci Joseph , Alfond Molly , Demuro Angelo , Gerberry David , Latulippe Joe
Published: January 2021

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a devastating illness affecting over 40 million people worldwide. Intraneuronal rise of amyloid beta in its oligomeric forms (iAβOs), has been linked to the pathogenesis of AD by disrupting cytosolic Ca2+homeostasis. However, the specific mechanisms of action are still under debate and intense effort is ongoing to improve our understanding of the crucial steps involved in the mechanisms of AβOs toxicity. We report the development of a mathematical model describing a proposed mechanism by which stimulation of Phospholipase C (PLC) by iAβO, triggers production of IP3with consequent abnormal release of Ca2+from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) through activation of IP3receptor (IP3R) Ca2+channels. After validating the model using experimental data, we quantify the effects of intracellular rise in iAβOs on model solutions. Our model validates a dose-dependent influence of iAβOs on IP3-mediated Ca2+signaling. We investigate Ca2+signaling patterns for small and large iAβOs doses and study the role of various parameters on Ca2+signals. Uncertainty quantification and partial rank correlation coefficients are used to better understand how the model behaves under various parameter regimes. Our model predicts that iAβO alter IP3R sensitivity to IP3for large doses. Our analysis also shows that the upstream production of IP3can influence Aβ-driven solution patterns in a dose-dependent manner. Model results illustrate and confirm the detrimental impact of iAβOs on IP3signaling.
Herpesvirus surveillance and discovery in zoo-housed ruminants
Authors: Partin Teagen G. , Schrenzel Mark D. , Braun Josephine , Witte Carmel L. , Kubiski Steven V. , Lee Justin , Rideout Bruce A.
Published: January 2021

Gammaherpesvirus infections are ubiquitous in captive and free-ranging ruminants and are associated with a variety of clinical diseases ranging from subclinical or mild inflammatory syndromes to fatal diseases such as malignant catarrhal fever. Gammaherpesvirus infections have been fully characterized in only a few ruminant species, and the overall diversity, host range, and biologic effects of most are not known. This study investigated the presence and host distribution of gammaherpesviruses in ruminant species at two facilities, the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park. We tested antemortem (blood, nasal or oropharyngeal swabs) or postmortem (internal organs) samples from 715 healthy or diseased ruminants representing 96 species and subspecies, using a consensus-based herpesvirus PCR for a segment of theDNA polymerase(DPOL) gene. Among the 715 animals tested, 161 (22.5%) were PCR and sequencing positive for herpesvirus, while only 11 (6.83%) of the PCR positive animals showed clinical signs of malignant catarrhal fever. Forty-fourDPOLgenotypes were identified of which only 10 have been reported in GenBank. The data describe viral diversity within species and individuals, identify host ranges of potential new viruses, and address the proclivity and consequences of interspecies transmission during management practices in zoological parks. The discovery of new viruses with wide host ranges and presence of co-infection within individual animals also suggest that the evolutionary processes influencing Gammaherpesvirus diversity are more complex than previously recognized.
Antagonistic maternal and direct effects of the leptin receptor gene on body weight in pigs
Authors: Solé Emma , Ros-Freixedes Roger , Tor Marc , Reixach Josep , Pena Ramona N. , Estany Joan
Published: January 2021

Maternal effects on offspring growth can impact survival and evolution of natural and domesticated populations. Genetic correlation estimates often support a negative relationship between direct and maternal effects. However, the genetic underpinnings whereby this antagonism operates are unclear. In pigs, sow feeding status and body composition condition piglet development and growth. We hypothesized that variants in genes impacting these traits may be causative of maternal influences that could be antagonistic to the direct effects for piglet growth. A recessive missense mutation (C>T) in the porcine leptin receptor (LEPR) gene (rs709596309) has been identified as the possible causal polymorphism for increased feed intake and fatness. Using data from a Duroc line, we show that the TT sows exerted a negative impact on the body weight of their offspring at the end of the growing period of similar extent to the positive direct effect of the TT genotype over each individual. Thus, TT pigs from TT dams were about as heavy as CC and CT (C–) pigs from C–dams, but TT pigs from C–dams were around 5% heavier than C–pigs from TT dams. In contrast, body composition was only influenced by LEPR direct effects. This antagonism is due to a higher propensity of TT pigs for self-maintenance rather than for offspring investment. We show that TT pigs consumed more feed, favored fatty acid uptake over release, and produced lighter piglets at weaning than their C–counterparts. We conclude that LEPR underlies a transgenerational mechanism for energy distribution that allocates resources to the sow or the offspring according to whether selective pressure is exerted before or after weaning.
The pressure relief protection effect of different strip widths, dip angles and pillar widths of an underside protective seam
Authors: Fang Shuhao , Zhu Hongqing , Huo Yujia , Zhang Yilong , Wang Haoran , Li Feng , Wang Xiaokuan
Published: January 2021

To design underside protective seam strip layout. Similarity model experiments, numerical simulations and theoretical calculations are used to quantitatively study the pressure relief protection effect of different strip widths, dip angles and coal pillar widths of a thin underside protective seam under deeply buried conditions. The optimal strip width range is obtained according to the change law of strain during the mining process of the underside protective seam in a similar model experiment. The change law of the expansion of the protected coal seam is obtained and the fitting surfaces among the dip angle and strip width of the coal seam with the protection distance and pressure relief angle along the strike and dip of the protected coal seam are established according to the numerical simulation results of underside protective seam mining. It is concluded that the best pressure relief effect can be achieved when the dip angle is 16.7° and the strip width is 70 m. According to the stability threshold of coal pillars considered in strip mining theory, the coal pillar width is calculated to be 50 m. Similarity model experiments and numerical simulations of protected coal seam mining verify the pressure relief effect of the designed protective seam strip width and pillar width. A calculation method of the protective seam strip width, position and pillar width required by the specific width of the protected seam is proposed.
Functional analyses of epidemic Clostridioides difficile toxin B variants reveal their divergence in utilizing receptors and inducing pathology
Authors: Pan Zhenrui , Zhang Yuanyuan , Luo Jianhua , Li Danyang , Zhou Yao , He Liuqing , Yang Qi , Dong Min , Tao Liang
Published: January 2021

Clostridioides difficiletoxin B (TcdB) is a key virulence factor that causesC.difficileassociated diseases (CDAD) including diarrhea and pseudomembranous colitis. TcdB can be divided into multiple subtypes/variants based on their sequence variations, of which four (TcdB1-4) are dominant types found in major epidemic isolates. Here, we find that these variants are highly diverse in their receptor preference: TcdB1 uses two known receptors CSPG4 and Frizzled (FZD) proteins, TcdB2 selectively uses CSPG4, TcdB3 prefers to use FZDs, whereas TcdB4 uses neither CSPG4 nor FZDs. By creating chimeric toxins and systematically switching residues between TcdB1 and TcdB3, we determine that regions in the N-terminal cysteine protease domain (CPD) are involved in CSPG4-recognition. We further evaluate the pathological effects induced by TcdB1-4 with a mouse intrarectal installation model. TcdB1 leads to the most severe overall symptoms, followed by TcdB2 and TcdB3. When comparing the TcdB2 and TcdB3, TcdB2 causes stronger oedema while TcdB3 induces severer inflammatory cell infiltration. These findings together demonstrate divergence in the receptor preference and further lead to colonic pathology for predominant TcdB subtypes.
Fabricating herstory: Using embroidery to map Bedouin tribal borders in South Sinai
Authors: Jacobs Jessica
Published: January 2021

Research into Bedouin culture by predominantly male scholars has tended to rely on analysing nineteenth-century traveller accounts, Cartesian maps and documenting oral histories. Much less attention has been paid to the role of Bedouin women’s handicrafts as a form of mapping and cultural knowledge production. In this article I reflect on the impact of commissioning an embroidered map of the Sinai during a British Academy/Leverhulme funded research project on Bedouin tribal borders and consider how collaborative engagements with traditional women’s handicrafts can be used as a form of artistic research practice, historical analysis and community mapping.
Galaksija: Representation of science in Yugoslavia’s socialist-era popular science magazine
Authors: Tatalović Mićo
Published: January 2021

Popular science coverage in Soviet countries was often determined by the ideological function of the media. But this was not always the case, especially on the periphery of the Soviet Union. I analyse science coverage in a cult popular science magazine published at the edges of the communist East, socialist Yugoslavia, in the mid-1970s at the height of the magazine’s circulation and during the reign of the country’s communist leader Josip Broz Tito. This analysis shows that at least some Yugoslav media rose above the East/West ideological divide, freeing science from the shackles of US and Soviet ideology, while imparting a unique Yugoslav ideological vision of the world to media science coverage.
All the creatures of the wheel at stake: Re-assessing science, anti-science and religion in The Omega Man
Authors: Bigliardi Stefano
Published: January 2021

The most significant motifs of Boris Sagal’s The Omega Man (1971) have been heavily scrutinized. Critical literature mentions science vs. anti-science as one of the film’s themes, yet only occasionally and fragmentarily. I contend that this opposition is central to the movie and that a richer interpretation of it can be reached by taking into account more elements in the movie’s action, dialog and imagery than critics have done thus far.
Transformaciones del Presupuesto Participativo en España: de la aplicación del modelo de Porto Alegre a la instrumentalización de las nuevas experiencias
Authors: López Ronda Sergio , Gil-Jaurena Inés
Published: January 2021

Se presenta una investigación sobre la evolución del Presupuesto Participativo en España, desde su aparición a principios del siglo XXI hasta la actualidad. El Presupuesto Participativo es una metodología de gestión pública y democracia participativa en la que la ciudadanía, en un espacio de diálogo y deliberación, decide sobre una parte del presupuesto municipal. El estudio parte de los modelos propuestos por Ganuza y Francés (2012) y se centra en las experiencias de las “Grandes Ciudades”. Los resultados indican el surgimiento de un nuevo modelo, al que hemos denominado “instrumentalista”, con menos espacios deliberativos y en el que las tecnologías son el mecanismo participativo predominante.
Evaluation of a PV-TEG Hybrid System Configuration for an Improved Energy Output: A Review
Authors: Saleh Umar Abubakar , Johar Muhammad Akmal , Jumaat Siti Amely Binti , Rejab Muhammad Nazri , Wan Jamaludin Wan Akashah
Published: January 2021

The development of renewable energy, especially solar, is essential for meeting future energy demands. The use of a wide range of the solar spectrum through the solar cells will increase electricity generation and thereby improve energy supply. However, solar photovoltaics (PV) can only convert a portion of the spectrum into electricity. Excess solar radiation is wasted by heat, which decreases solar PV cells’ efficiency and decreases their life span. Interestingly, thermoelectric generators (TEGs) are bidirectional devices that act as heat engines, converting the excess heat into electrical energy through thermoelectric effects through when integrated with a PV. These generators also enhance device efficiency and reduce the amount of heat that solar cells dissipate. Several experiments have been carried out to improve the hybrid PV-TEG system efficiency, and some are still underway. In the present study, the photovoltaic and thermoelectric theories are reviewed. Furthermore, different hybrid system integration methods and experimental and numerical investigations in improving the efficiency of PV-TEG hybrid systems are also discussed. This paper also assesses the effect of critical parameters of PV-TEG performance and highlights possible future research topics to enhancing the literature on photovoltaic-thermoelectric generator systems.
Reprezentacje gender w polskiej sferze publicznej – próba uchwycenia dynamiki dyskursu
Authors: Grochalska Monika
Published: January 2021

Before 2013, the term ‘gender’ as used to define male and female social roles had appeared relatively rarely in the public sphere. However, it had not been completely unknown. Whenever this term did occur in utterances of public figures, it was mostly in reference to equality policies (gender policy) and the idea of gender mainstreaming in EU projects. It was commonly associated with feminism and has in this form entered the social consciousness, including the minds of major public figures, especially those with highest state positions. The situation changed radically in 2013. The term ‘gender’ started to be connected with ‘gender ideology’, a term coined by people associated with the Catholic Church. This article presents the ways in which the issues related to the broadly meant gender are presented on the right and left sides of the political scene. This analysis is based on selected interviews and other utterances of famous politicians as well as the articles in popular weekly magazines published in 2011–2015. This paper covers both kinds of utterances – those in line with the rules of political correctness and the examples of hate speech. All examples are provided to highlight the mechanisms of discrimination hidden in the language of politics.
A High-Throughput Forging Technique and Its Application in the Optimization of the Deformation Conditions
Authors: Hu Zhiqiang , Wang Kaikun
Published: January 2021

The high-throughput (HT) forging technique is introduced for speeding up the research on the forming property of materials. The core concept of the HT forging technology is to assign two influencing factors to multiple samples simultaneously. By se4tting gradients with different factors in the vertical direction and the horizontal direction, all the samples will be forged at different deformations and HT experimentation will be achieved. HT forging equipment was designed and developed to accomplish the 5 by 6 HT experimentation by establishing a temperature gradient in the vertical direction and a strain or a strain rate gradient in the horizontal direction. A simplified experiment with 5CrNiMoV steel to verify the reliability and efficiency was carried out. Combined with the analysis of microstructure, the relatively excellent deformation condition for the steel was the temperature of 1,000°C and strain rate of 1s−1. For obtaining the optimum deformation condition, more specimens should be forged in the HT equipment. It evidenced that the HT forging technique and the HT equipment would be favorable for analyzing the property and optimize the forming process rapidly.
How Brazil and Mexico Diverged on Social Protection in the Pandemic
Authors: Lustig Nora , Trasberg Mart
Published: January 2021

Mexico and Brazil, both among the region’s hardest hit by COVID-19, took strikingly different steps to mitigate the economic impact of the pandemic. Although President Jair Bolsonaro dismissed the need for social distancing measures, the government provided substantial financial aid to citizens though cash transfer programs, avoiding potentially sharp increases in poverty and inequality. Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, who also displayed a dismissive attitude about the virus, made relatively little effort to protect the poor and unemployed from its effects, despite his pro-poor rhetoric. As a result, the Mexican economy was projected to contract by 9 percent in 2020, while poverty sharply increased. Rising malnutrition and missed schooling may have long-term consequences for inequality.
Dungeons, Dragons, and Music
Authors: Borecky Andrew
Published: January 2021

Since 1974, Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) has existed on the fringes of popular culture alongside many other tabletop roleplaying games. In recent years, however, D&D and other RPGs have emerged at the forefront of gaming culture. The allure of fantasy and magic draws players into creating and roleplaying characters in a mediated fantasy space through social interaction. Though largely untheorized, Dungeons & Dragons has been examined through sociological and philosophical lenses, though these studies often ignore the performative aspects of the game itself.

During gameplay, Dungeon Masters (DMs) often exploit sensory detail, music specifically, in order to encourage roleplay in their players. The fifth edition handbook of D&D states that DMs can use “music, art, or recorded sound effects to help set the mood, and many players and DMs alike adopt different voices for the various adventurers, monsters, and other characters they might play in the game.” The following research explores the use of music within D&D as it relates to the players’ ability to immerse themselves within the game, drawing on research in ludomusicology and applying a lens of reflexive and close ethnography. Additionally, this research explicates a growing popularity of D&D on the internet through shows such as Critical Role and the live storytelling genre, as well as how it has altered ideas concerning the performance of voice. Based on interviews with players and observations of D&D games in person and via online streaming services, this article asserts that music allows players to immerse themselves within the setting of the game, which in turn creates a form of participatory performance for both the players and the Dungeon Master.
Progress in the synthesis and properties of 2,5-furan dicarboxylate based polyesters
Authors: Zhang Junhua , Liu Yao , Qi Zhaohua , He Liang , Peng Lincai
Published: January 2021

Biomass is a class of abundant renewable resource. Its efficient use in the field of biobased materials is one of the important ways for implementation of sustainable development strategies. 2,5-Furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) as a potential alternative of terephthalic acid (PTA) to make alipharomatic polyesters, can be obtained in mass amount from cellulose via bio- or chemical process. For this reason, FDCA-based polyesters have gained high interest recently. This review systematically summarizes recent progress in the making of FDCA-based polyesters (including poly(ethylene 2,5-furandicarboxylate) (PEF), poly(propylene 2,5-furandicarboxylate) (PPF), poly(butylene 2,5-furandicarboxylate) (PBF), poly(hexylene 2,5-furandicarboxylate) (PHF), and their copolyesters), especially highlighting the progress and fundamental aspects for their synthesis and properties. Significant advantages (and also disadvantages) of the FDCA-based polyesters are clearly indicated relative to price, performance, and sustainable development, in reference to traditional petroleum-based polyesters in industrial application. The goal of this review is to provide useful information regarding the synthesis and properties of FDCA-based polyesters.
ТЕОРЕТИЧНИЙ ВИМІР ІНФОРМАЦІЙНО-ЦИФРОВОЇ ЕКОНОМІКИ: ОСНОВИ І СИСТЕМА ПЕРВИННИХ ІНФОРМАЦІЙНИХ ФЕНОМЕНІВ
Authors: ТАРАСЕВИЧ Віктор
Published: January 2021

Теоретично осмислено діяльнісно-знаннєві ноумени первинних інформаційних та інформаційно-цифрових феноменів у контексті теоретичного виміру інформаційно-цифрової економіки в умовах сучасної кореволюції. Розглянуто пізнавальні витоки й основи зазначених феноменів. Інформаційний феномен або продукт представлено як знак знаннєвого образу пізнаваного об\'єкта. Визначено загальні та особливі риси знаннєвого, знаннєво-інформаційного, знаннєво-понятійного та інформаційного продуктів. Охарактеризовано основні види пізнавальної діяльності (інтегрально-синтетична, власне пізнавальна, пізнавально-інформаційна, пізнавально-понятійна, власне інформаційна, чуттєво-емоційна, емпірико-абстрактна, теоретико-абстрактна, прикладна) та їх відповідні результати (продукти). Подано систему інтегрально-синтетичного, а також цілісних (чуттєво-емоційні, емпірико-абстракті, теоретико-абстрактні, прикладні) та часткових (візуальний, аудіальний, тактильний, нюховий, смаковий тощо) первинних інформаційних продуктів як результатів відповідних видів власне інформаційної діяльності. Представлено знаннєво-інформаційний «ланцюжок», що складається з відповідних знаннєвих та інформаційних продуктів. Сформульовано базові принципи власне інформаційної діяльності, зокрема: 1) повноти вираження реального об\'єкта в знаннєво-інформаційних, знаннєво-понятійних та інформаційних продуктах; 2) адекватності або відповідності знаннєвого продукту реальному об\'єкту, знаннєво-інформаційного продукту – знаннєвому продукту, понятійного та інформаційного продуктів –знаннєво-інформаційному продукту; 3) жорсткої прив\'язки: а) до визначеного пласта об\'єкта (об\'єкта в цілому) цілком відповідного єдиного знаннєвого продукту; б) до цього останнього – відповідного єдиного понятійного продукту; в) до цього продукту – відповідного єдиного інформаційного продукту. Запропоновано кількісну оцінку інформаційного продукту на основі визначення ступеня повноти позначення цим продуктом (феноменом) відповідного знаннєвого продукту (ноумену).
ДЖЕРЕЛА ТА ПРИНЦИПИ РОЗВИТКУ СОЦІАЛЬНОГО КАПІТАЛУ
Authors: ЗВОНАР Віктор
Published: January 2021

Висвітлено специфіку джерел і принципи розвитку соціального капіталу як неодмінної складової процесів соціалізації економіки. Обґрунтовано потенціал освіти, громадського активізму (особливо волонтерства), а також соціальних інновацій як джерел розвитку соціального капіталу. Виявлено, що яскравим прикладом конструктивного впливу інновацій у цьому контексті є ігрофікація з метою ініціювання та підтримання процесів соціального згуртування. На перспективність і переваги ігрофікації вказує той факт, що її елементи вже сьогодні широко використовуються комерційними компаніями з метою згуртування персоналу. В Україні ігрофікаційні підходи також дістають застосування в практиці публічного менеджменту як окремих державних органів найвищого рівня, так і органів місцевого самоврядування для активізації комунікації та співробітництва у громадах.Визначено, що в науковому дискурсі нині фактично ігноруються освітні аспекти проблематики формування соціального капіталу. Поряд з тим, обґрунтовано висновок, що в сучасних умовах освіта має позиціонуватись як вагоме джерело соціального капіталу. В цьому контексті постульовано першочергове значення загальної (шкільної) освіти, яка справляє найширший суспільний вплив.Виявлено, що серед принципів розвитку соціального капіталу основоположними є ті, що утверджують його саме як економічну субстанцію та ресурс. Такими принципами визначено соціоцентричну раціональність, складний (Парето-ефективний) утилітаризм, синергію соціоекономічної взаємодії, її інституційну обумовленість, а також соціальну свободу. В цьому зв’язку поглиблено розуміння відмінностей між соціальною та індивідуальною свободою. Соціальну свободу як принцип розвитку соціального капіталу запропоновано розглядати з позиції комплексності, що передбачає врахування специфіки громадянської та економічної свободи, а також імперативів людського розвитку.
Uzupełnianie braków pism procesowych według Kodeksu postępowania cywilnego po nowelizacji wprowadzonej ustawą z dnia 4 lipca 2019 r.
Authors:   Uniwersytet Gdański, Polska, Mróz-Szarmach Dominika
Published: January 2021

The amendment of Civil Procedure Code, was made by Act of 4 July 2019, introduces a lot of developments in the sphere of formal and fiscal pleadings’ defects remedying. New solutions regard inter alia unification of the results of failure to eliminate defects of pleadings by attorneys ad litem, extending terms for proceedings aimed at reforming specific pleadings’ defects and moving soi-disant reformatory proceedings with ordinary remedies to courts of second instance. The article discusses the amendments on the title issue, presents the assessment of its practical use as well as stresses certain de lege ferenda proposals in said matter.