bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapid mixed-methods assessment of COVID-19 impact on Latinx sexual minority men and Latinx transgender women
Authors: MacCarthy Sarah , Izenberg Max , Barreras Joanna L. , Brooks Ron A. , Gonzalez Ana , Linnemayr Sebastian
Published: December 2020

We conducted a rapid, mixed-methods assessment to understand how COVID-19 affected Latinx sexual minority men (LSMM) and transgender women (LTGW). Using a computer-assisted telephone interviewing software, one interviewer called 52 participants (randomly sampled from a larger HIV prevention pilot study aiming to increase HIV knowledge and testing frequency; n = 36 LSMM and n = 16 LTGW) between 04/27/20-05/18/20. We quantified core domains using the Epidemic-Pandemic Impacts Inventory scale and provided important context through open-ended qualitative questions assessing: 1) COVID-19 infection history and experiences with quarantine; 2) Health and healthcare access; 3) Employment and economic impact of COVID-19. Participants reported increases in physical conflict or verbal arguments with a partner (13.5%) or other adult(s) (19.2%) due to stressors associated with the safer-at-home order. Participants also reported increased alcohol consumption (23.1%), problems with sleep (67.3%) and mental health (78.4%). Further, disruptions in access to Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis or PrEP–a daily pill to prevent HIV–occurred (33.3% of 18 participants who reported being on PrEP). Many said they received less medical attention than usual (34.6%), and LTGW reported delays in critical gender-affirming hormones/procedures. Half of the participants lost their jobs (50.0%); many undocumented participants relayed additional financial concerns because they did not qualify for financial assistance. Though no COVID-19 infections were noted, COVID-19 dramatically impacted other aspects of health and overall wellbeing of LSMM and LTGW. Public health responses should address the stressors faced by LSMM and LTGW during the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact on wellbeing.
Willingness to pay for kidney transplantation among chronic kidney disease patients in Ghana
Authors: Boima V. , Agyabeng K. , Ganu V. , Dey D. , Yorke E. , Amissah-Arthur M. B. , Wilson A. A. , Yawson A. E. , Mate-Kole C. C. , Nonvignon J.
Published: December 2020

Background

Kidney transplantation is the preferred treatment for patients with end stage renal disease. However, it is largely unavailable in many sub-Sahara African countries including Ghana. In Ghana, treatment for end stage renal disease including transplantation, is usually financed out-of-pocket. As efforts continue to be made to expand the kidney transplantation programme in Ghana, it remains unclear whether patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) would be willing to pay for a kidney transplant.

Aim

The aim of the study was to assess CKD patients’ willingness to pay for kidney transplantation as a treatment option for end stage renal disease in Ghana.

Methods

A facility based cross-sectional study conducted at the Renal Outpatient clinic and Dialysis Unit of Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital among 342 CKD patients 18 years and above including those receiving haemodialysis. A consecutive sampling approach was used to recruit patients. Structured questionnaires were administered to obtain information on demographic, socio-economic, knowledge about transplant, perception of transplantation and willingness to pay for transplant. In addition, the INSPIRIT questionnaire was used to assess patients’ level of religiosity and spirituality. Contingent valuation method (CVM) method was used to assess willingness to pay (WTP) for kidney transplantation. Logistic regression model was used to determine the significant predictors of WTP.

Results

The average age of respondents was 50.2 ± 17.1 years with most (56.7% (194/342) being male. Overall, 90 out of the 342 study participants (26.3%, 95%CI: 21.7–31.3%) were willing to pay for a kidney transplant at the current going price (≥ $ 17,550) or more. The median amount participants were willing to pay below the current price was $986 (IQR: $197 –$1972). Among those willing to accept (67.3%, 230/342), 29.1% (67/230) were willing to pay for kidney transplant at the prevailing price. Wealth quintile, social support in terms of number of family friends one could talk to about personal issues and number of family members one can call on for help were the only factors identified to be significantly predictive of willingness to pay (p-value < 0.05).

Conclusion

The overall willingness to pay for kidney transplant is low among chronic kidney disease patients attending Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital. Patients with higher socio-economic status and those with more family members one can call on for help were more likely to pay for kidney transplantation. The study’s findings give policy makers an understanding of CKD patients circumstances regarding affordability of the medical management of CKD including kidney transplantation. This can help develop pricing models to attain an ideal poise between a cost effective but sustainable kidney transplant programme and improve patient access to this ultimate treatment option.
Fruit quality and antioxidant potential of Prunus humilis Bunge accessions
Authors: Fu Hongbo , Mu Xiaopeng , Wang Pengfei , Zhang Jiancheng , Fu Baochun , Du Junjie
Published: December 2020

In this study, we aimed to evaluate the fruit quality of Prunus humilis and identify cultivars that could provide superior human health benefits. We measured the basic characteristics, bioactive compounds, and antioxidant capacities of 137 P. humilis accessions. Flavonoid and phenol content were determined via colorimetry and ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography. Single fruit and stone weights varied widely and were genetically diverse among accessions. The variation in soluble solid content was comparatively narrow. Total flavonoid content (TFC) ranged from 3.90 to 28.37 mg/g FW, with an average of 10.58 mg/g FW in 2019. Significant differences between accessions in terms of TFC, total phenol content, and antioxidant capacity were found. TFC in the accessions was normally distributed and predominantly in the medium range (9.57–15.23 mg/g FW). Red was the predominant peel color over all other phenotypes (i.e., dark red, red, light red, red-orange, and yellow). There was no obvious correlation between peel color and TFC. Catechin was the major flavonoid component in the fruit. Principal component analysis showed that TFC, ABTS, single fruit weight, and vertical and horizontal diameter contributed to the first two principal components for each accession. Accessions 10–02, 3-17-2, 3-17-4, and JD1-6-7-37 were characterized by high TFC, ABTS, and large fruit. We believe that our results will aid in the breeding and functional food processing of Prunus humilis.
Randomised clinical trial comparing concomitant and hybrid therapy for eradication of Helicobacter pylori infection
Authors: Mestrovic Antonio , Perkovic Nikola , Bozic Josko , Pavicic Ivelja Mirela , Vukovic Jonatan , Kardum Goran , Puljiz Zeljko , Tonkic Ante
Published: December 2020

Background

The primary objective of this study was to compare concomitant and hybrid therapy in the first line eradication treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection in Split-Dalmatia County, Croatia, in which clarithromycin resistance is above 20%. The secondary objective of the study was to determine and compare compliance and adverse events rate between these therapeutic protocols.

Materials and methods

In an open-label, randomised clinical trial 140 patients total with H. pylori infection were randomly assigned to either concomitant (esomeprazole 40 mg, amoxicillin 1 g, metronidazole 500 mg, clarithromycin 500 mg, twice daily for 14 days) or hybrid (esomeprazole 40 mg and amoxicillin 1 g twice daily during 14 days with adding metronidazole 500 mg and clarithromycin 500 mg twice daily, in the last 7 days,) treatment group.

Results

Eradication rates for concomitant group and hybrid therapy group were 84.1% (58/69) and 83.1% (59/71) respectively in the intention-to-treat analysis and 96.7% (58/60) and 95.2% (59/62) in per-protocol analysis. There was no significant difference between the groups (ITT analysis: P = 0.878; PP analysis: P = 0.675). Adverse events were more frequent in the concomitant group (33.3% vs 18.3%, P = 0.043). There was no difference among groups regarding compliance rate.

Conclusion

Hybrid therapy has similar eradication rate as concomitant therapy, with lower adverse events rate. In the era of increasing antibiotic resistance, eradication regime with less antibiotic’s usage, as hybrid therapy, should be reasonable first line treatment choice for H. pylori infection.

Clinical Trials, gov: NCT03572777.
Use of a filamentous green alga (Chaetomorpha sp.) and microsnail (Stenothyra sp.) as feed at an early stage of intensive aquaculture promotes growth performance, artificial feed efficiency, and profitability of giant tiger prawn (Penaeus monodon)
Authors: Tsutsui Isao , Aue-umneoy Dusit , Pinphoo Piyarat , Thuamsuwan Worachet , Janeauksorn Kittipong , Meethong Grissada , Keattanaworada Patcharanut , Songphatkaew Jaruwan , Ganmanee Monthon , Abe Osamu , Hamano Kaoru
Published: December 2020

With the worldwide demand for tropical penaeid prawn increasing in recent decades, more research on shrimp culture methods is needed to enhance efficiency and profitability for shrimp farmers. The objective of this study was to develop a technique to boost the productivity, feed efficiency, and profitability of the giant tiger prawn (Penaeus monodon). To accomplish this, a novel culture setup was established in which two benthic organisms, a filamentous green alga (Chaetomorpha sp.) and a microsnail (Stenothyra sp.), were propagated together with P. monodon post-larvae during an early culture stage and then offered to shrimp as supplementary live feeds in intensive aquaculture ponds. For the experiment, shrimp post-larvae (density: approximately 33 individuals m-2) were cultured in outdoor concrete ponds (9 × 9 × 1.2 m) under either control (fed only artificial feed, n = 3) or experimental (fed artificial feed and benthic organisms, n = 3) conditions until they reached marketable size (15 weeks). Apparent green algae consumption was 6.81 kg (8.4% green alga to total feed consumption), whereas microsnail consumption was 1.96 kg (2.4% microsnail to total feed consumption). Compared with the control group of giant tiger prawn, the experimental group showed significantly higher productivity (total number of shrimp produced: 118%; total shrimp production: 133%), feed efficiency (feed conversion ratio of artificial shrimp feed: 89%), and profitability (shrimp sales: 139%; balance between shrimp sales and costs: 146%), while labor and financial costs were kept minimal. These results can be explained by the enhanced growth of shrimp at the early stages of culture. The techniques developed in this study will help to advance the efficiency of intensive aquaculture operations for giant tiger prawn and also improve profitability for shrimp farmers.
Location problem of Osmia cornuta nesting aids for optimum pollination
Authors: Pekár Juraj , Reiff Marian , Brezina Ivan
Published: December 2020

The economic contribution of insect pollinators is evident as they contribute to higher crop yield quantity and quality. The management of bee species is key to crop production, especially where wild and domesticated bees are in low abundance. Several bee species have been identified as possible candidates for replacing, or at least supplementing, the decreasing number of honey bees. Our research seeks to address the location problem as regards nesting aids forOsmia cornutabees in orchards using mathematical programming models for determining the optimal location of nesting aids and optimizing the management of solitary bees. A differential evolution algorithm is used to solve a location model ofOsmia cornutanesting aids for optimum pollination. Instead of a random ad hoc location of nesting aids in an orchard, or at the edge of an orchard, we utilize an effective optimization tool to determine locations which will optimize pollination by alternative pollinators, and increase the economic output of an agricultural business. The importance of this proposed model is likely to increase with agricultural intensification, and the decrease of the numbers of wild pollinators.
Factors influencing implementation of an insulin patient decision aid at public health clinics in Malaysia: A qualitative study
Authors: Tong Wen Ting , Lee Yew Kong , Ng Chirk Jenn , Lee Ping Yein
Published: December 2020

Background

Many patient decision aids (PDAs) are developed in academic settings by academic researchers. Academic settings are different from public health clinics where the focus is on clinical work. Thus, research on implementation in public health settings will provide insights to effective implementation of PDA in real-world settings. This study explores perceived factors influencing implementation of an insulin PDA in five public health clinics.

Methods

This study adopted a comparative case study design with a qualitative focus to identify similarities and differences of the potential barriers and facilitators to implementing the insulin PDA across different sites. Focus groups and individual interviews were conducted with 28 healthcare providers and 15 patients from five public health clinics under the Ministry of Health in Malaysia. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using the thematic approach.

Results

Five themes emerged which were: 1) time constraint; 2) PDA costs; 3) tailoring PDA use to patient profile; 4) patient decisional role; and 5) leadership and staff motivation. Based on the interviews and drawing on observations and interview reflection notes, time constraint emerged as the common prominent factor that cut across all the clinics, however, tailoring PDA use to patient profile; patient decisional role; leadership and staff motivation varied due to the distinct challenges faced by specific clinics. Among clinics from semi-urban areas with more patients from limited education and lower socio-economic status, patients’ ability to comprehend the insulin PDA and their tendency to rely on their doctors and family to make health decisions were felt to be a prominent barrier to the insulin PDA implementation. Staff motivation appeared to be stronger in most of the clinics where specific time was allocated to diabetes team to attend to diabetes patients and this was felt could be a potential facilitator, however, a lack of leadership might affect the insulin PDA implementation even though a diabetes team is present.

Conclusions

This study found time constraint as a major potential barrier for PDA implementation and effective implementation of the insulin PDA across different public health clinics would depend on leadership and staff motivation and, the need to tailor PDA use to patient profile. To ensure successful implementation, implementers should avoid a ‘one size fits all’ approach when implementing health innovations.
Impact of diabetes self-management, diabetes management self-efficacy and diabetes knowledge on glycemic control in people with Type 2 Diabetes (T2D): A multi-center study in Thailand
Authors: Hurst Cameron P. , Rakkapao Nitchamon , Hay Karen
Published: December 2020

We investigate the relationship of diabetes knowledge, diabetes management self-efficacy and diabetes self-management with blood glucose control among people with Thai type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D). Seven hundred outpatients from diabetes clinics from large university and small community hospitals in two provinces of Thailand (Khon Kaen and Bangkok) were interviewed to evaluate their diabetes knowledge (DK), diabetes management self-efficacy (DMSE) and diabetes self-management (DSM). In addition, patient medical records were accessed to obtain other patient characteristics including patients’ HbA1c levels. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression modelling was conducted and unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios obtained, respectively. Over half (52.4%) of the patients in our sample failed to control their blood glucose (HbA1c > 7%). All three psychometric measures (DK, DMSE and DSM) were identified as associated with blood glucose control in the bivariate analysis (ORDK(unadj) = 0.89, 95%CI: 0.82, 0.96; ORDSM(unadj) = 1.64, 95%CI: 1.46, 1.82; ORDMSE(unadj) = 2.84; 95%CI: 2.43, 3.32). However, after mutual adjustment and adjustment for other patient characteristics, of the three psychometric measures, only diabetes management self-efficacy remained associated with blood glucose control (ORDMSE(adj) = 2.67; 95%CI: 2.20, 3.25). Diabetes management self-efficacy is shown to be strongly associated with blood glucose control in the Thai Type 2 diabetes population. Current early diabetes interventions in Thailand tend to focus on disease knowledge. A stronger emphasis on enhancing patients’ disease management self-efficacy in these interventions is likely to lead to substantial improvement in both diabetes self-management and blood glucose control, thereafter reducing the risk, or prolonging the development, of chronic diabetes complications.
Serological and hematological characteristics of Sjogren’s syndrome and dry eye syndrome patients using a novel immune serology technique
Authors: Ben-Eli Hadas , Solomon Abraham , Aframian Doron J. , Ben-Chetrit Eldad , Mevorach Dror , Kleinstern Geffen , Waterboer Tim , Willhauck-Fleckenstein Martina , Pawlita Michael , Paltiel Ora
Published: December 2020

Objectives

To compare hematologic and serological parameters among patients with Sjogren’s syndrome (SS), dry eye syndrome (DES) and controls, and validate a novel multiplex-serology method for identifying auto-antibodies in these populations.

Methods

In a clinic-based case-control study a total of 422 participants were recruited, including 91 with SS, 120 DES, and 211 controls (age and sex frequency-matched). We measured blood counts, anti-nuclear-antibodies (ANA), anti-SSA/SSB, anti-ribonucleoprotein (RNP), anti-double-stranded-DNA (DS-DNA), and rheumatoid factor (RF) using the “Immunodot” qualitative-ELISA assay. Immunoglobulins, C3 and C4 were measured by immune-fluorescence. Autoantibodies were also quantified with a newly-developed method using glutathione-S-transferase fusion proteins of SSA/Ro 52 and 60kD and SSB/La (multiplex-serology), measuring median fluorescence intensity (MFI).

Results

Among DES patients, only 2% (95%CI: 0.36–6.3) had positive immune serology. SS patients had lower lymphocyte, hemoglobin and C3 levels but higher prevalence of RF, ANA, anti-SSA/B and higher IgG and MFI levels, compared to DES and controls (P<0.001). Presence of anti-SSA/Ro-52kD was associated with SS [odds ratio (OR) = 2.05, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.46–2.88]. Anti-SSB/La was inversely associated with DES (OR = 0.81, 95%CI: 0.65–1.00) compared to controls. Positivity to RF (adjusted for age, gender and ethnicity OR = 5.03, 95%CI: 1.78–14.21), ANA (OR = 14.75, 95%CI: 4.09–53.17), or combination of anti-SSA/B (OR = 20.97, 95%CI: 4.60–95.54) were more likely in SS compared to DES. The novel multiplex-serology method correctly identified anti-SSA/B autoantibodies by ELISA among SS, DES patients and controls (sensitivity = 1.0, negative-predictive-value = 1.0).

Conclusions

Serologic parameters distinguish SS from DES patients and controls. A newly-developed multiplex-serology technique may be useful to detect autoantibodies in large epidemiologic studies.
Heterogeneous taxonomic resolution of cytochrome b gene identification of bats from Argentina: Implications for field studies
Authors: Caraballo Diego A. , Montani María E. , Martínez Leila M. , Antoniazzi Leandro R. , Sambrana Tomás C. , Fernández Camilo , Cisterna Daniel M. , Beltrán Fernando J. , Colombo Valeria C.
Published: December 2020

Bats are among the most diverse, widespread, and abundant mammals. In Argentina, 67 species of bats have been recorded, belonging to 5 families and 29 genera. These high levels of biodiversity are likely to complicate identification at fieldwork, especially between closely related species, where external morphology-based approaches are the only immediate means for a priori species assignment. The use of molecular markers can enhance species identification, and acquires particular relevance in capture-release studies. In this study, we discuss the extent of the use of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene for species identification, comparing external morphology identification with a molecular phylogenetic classification based on this marker, under the light of current bat systematics. We analyzed 33 samples collected in an eco-epidemiological survey in the province of Santa Fe (Argentina). We further sequenced 27 museum vouchers to test the accuracy of cytochrome b -based phylogenies in taxonomic identification of bats occurring in the Pampean/Chacoan regions of Argentina. The cytochrome b gene was successfully amplified in all Molossid and Vespertilionid species except for Eptesicus, for which we designed a new reverse primer. The resulting Bayesian phylogeny was congruent with current systematics. Cytochrome b proved useful for species-level delimitation in non-conflicting genera (Eumops, Dasypterus, Molossops) and has infrageneric resolution in more complex lineages (Eptesicus, Myotis, Molossus). We discuss four sources of incongruence that may act separately or in combination: 1) molecular processes, 2) biology, 3) limitations in identification, and 4) errors in the current taxonomy. The present study confirms the general applicability of cytochrome b -based phylogenies in eco-epidemiological studies, but its resolution and reliability depend mainly, but not solely, on the level of genetic differentiation within each bat genus.
Validation of a simplified risk prediction model using a cloud based critical care registry in a lower-middle income country
Authors: Tirupakuzhi Vijayaraghavan Bharath Kumar , Priyadarshini Dilanthi , Rashan Aasiyah , Beane Abi , Venkataraman Ramesh , Ramakrishnan Nagarajan , Haniffa Rashan ,   the Indian Registry of IntenSive care(IRIS) collaborators
Published: December 2020

Background

The use of severity of illness scoring systems such as the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation in lower-middle income settings comes with important limitations, primarily due to data burden, missingness of key variables and lack of resources. To overcome these challenges, in Asia, a simplified model, designated as e-TropICS was previously developed. We sought to externally validate this model using data from a multi-centre critical care registry in India.

Methods

Seven ICUs from the Indian Registry of IntenSive care(IRIS) contributed data to this study. Patients > 18 years of age with an ICU length of stay > 6 hours were included. Data including age, gender, co-morbidity, diagnostic category, type of admission, vital signs, laboratory measurements and outcomes were collected for all admissions. e-TropICS was calculated as per original methods. The area under the receiver operator characteristic curve was used to express the model’s power to discriminate between survivors and non-survivors. For all tests of significance, a 2-sided P less than or equal to 0.05 was considered to be significant. AUROC values were considered poor when ≤ to 0.70, adequate between 0.71 to 0.80, good between 0.81 to 0.90, and excellent at 0.91 or higher. Calibration was assessed using Hosmer-Lemeshow C -statistic.

Results

We included data from 2062 consecutive patient episodes. The median age of the cohort was 60 and predominantly male (n = 1350, 65.47%). Mechanical Ventilation and vasopressors were administered at admission in 504 (24.44%) and 423 (20.51%) patients respectively. Overall, mortality at ICU discharge was 10.28% (n = 212). Discrimination (AUC) for the e-TropICS model was 0.83 (95% CI 0.812–0.839) with an HL C statistic p value of < 0.05. The best sensitivity and specificity (84% and 72% respectively) were achieved with the model at an optimal cut-off for probability of 0.29.

Conclusion

e-TropICS has utility in the care of critically unwell patients in the South Asia region with good discriminative capacity. Further refinement of calibration in larger datasets from India and across the South-East Asia region will help in improving model performance.
Effectiveness of COVID-19 shelter-in-place orders varied by state
Authors: Feyman Yevgeniy , Bor Jacob , Raifman Julia , Griffith Kevin N.
Published: December 2020

State “shelter-in-place” (SIP) orders limited the spread of COVID-19 in the U.S. However, impacts may have varied by state, creating opportunities to learn from states where SIPs have been effective. Using a novel dataset of state-level SIP order enactment and county-level mobility data form Google, we use a stratified regression discontinuity study design to examine the effect of SIPs in all states that implemented them. We find that SIP orders reduced mobility nationally by 12 percentage points (95% CI: -13.1 to -10.9), however the effects varied substantially across states, from -35 percentage points to +11 percentage points. Larger reductions were observed in states with higher incomes, higher population density, lower Black resident share, and lower 2016 vote shares for Donald J. Trump. This suggests that optimal public policies during a pandemic will vary by state and there is unlikely to be a “one-size fits all” approach that works best.
Biodiversity of mosquitoes and Mansonia uniformis as a potential vector of Wuchereria bancrofti in Hulu Sungai Utara District, South Kalimantan, Indonesia
Authors: Ridha Muhammad Rasyid , Rahayu Nita , Hairani Budi , Perwitasari Dian , Kusumaningtyas Harninda
Published: December 2020

Background and Aim: Lymphatic filariasis, also known as elephantiasis, still remains a problem in Indonesia. The primary causative species of this disease are the filarial worms Wuchereria bancrofti and Brugia spp. This study was conducted to identify the diversity of species and behavior of mosquitoes and to determine the mosquitoes that could be potential vectors of filariasis. Materials and Methods: Mosquito samples derived from Hulu Sungai Utara (HSU) district in the 2017 multicenter study conducted in Indonesia were used in this cross-sectional study. The diversity of mosquito species was analyzed using the Shannon–Wiener diversity index. Mosquitoes were identified based on their species, and their DNA was isolated by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Transcription-insulated isothermal PCR method was used to detect microfilariae/filaria larvae in the mosquitoes. Results: Biodiversity was found in 14 species of mosquitoes belonging to five genera. The maximum number of mosquitoes was recorded from the species Mansonia dives, Culex vishnui, Culex quinquefasciatus, and Mansonia uniformis. W. bancrofti infection was detected in M. uniformis at an infectivity rate of 0.3% (n=311). Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of M. uniformis species as a vector of W. bancrofti in HSU district, Indonesia. More efficient and accurate studies are required to aid in the lymphatic filariasis elimination programs in this subregion.
Uranium removal from tin smelter slag by bisulfate fusion and acidic leaching
Authors: Prasetyo Erik Prasetyo , Meiliastri Sonia Saraswati , Trinopiawan Kurnia , Supriyatna Yayat Iman , Bahfie Fathan , Giyatmi Giyatmi
Published: December 2020

Slag as secondary product (waste) of tin smelter still contains not only valuable elements e.g. Ti, Nb, Ta, Zr, Hf and rare earth elements, but also radioactives such as Th and U, wich are accumulated in the slag phase during the smelting. Due to valuable element content, the slag becomes major of interest in mineral processing industries, hence the slag needs to be decontaminated before it could be processed further.Common approach to reduce U content from the slag using leaching process is considered ineffective due to association of U with refractory elements e.g. Si and Ti in the slag. To break down the refractory phases, the fusion approach by using fusing agent is required in order to release U so that they could be leached out using mild lixiviant.In this research, potassium hydrogen sulfate (KHSO4) and sulfuric acid was used as fusing agent and lixiviant, respectively. The parameters studied includes molar ratio between fusing agent and refractory elements in slag, fusion temperature, fusion time, sulfuric acid concentration in lixiviant and pulp density during leaching stage. The studies so far demonstrated that optimum condition in U removal occurred at fusion temperature 400 °C, fusion time 2 hours, molar ratio of potassium hydrogen sulfate to tin slag 5, sulfuric acid concentration 2 M and pulp density 15 ml/gr. The maximum recovery of U was 85.6%, which was significant compared to the results using direct leaching without fusion (0.1%).
LAPISAN FLAME SPRAYED SS430-AL PADA BAJA KARBON: STRUKTUR DAN KETAHANAN OKSIDASI TEMPERATUR TINGGI
Authors: Fahmi Muhammad Rizki Hifdzia , Sutrisno Sutrisno , Hermanto Bambang , Sudiro Toto
Published: December 2020

Pada penelitian ini, telah dilakukan proses pelapisan serbuk SS430 murni dan SS430-10Al pada substrat baja karbon rendah dengan teknik flame spray guna meningkatkan ketahanannya terhadap oksidasi pada temperatur tinggi. Untuk menganalisa ketahanan oksidasi dari lapisan tersebut, masing-masing sampel diuji oksidasi pada temperatur 550°Cselama 10 siklus dengan sampel pembanding adalah baja karbon tanpa pelapisan. Struktur lapisan yang terbentuk pada permukaan sampel sebelum dan sesudah uji oksidasi dianalisa dengan menggunakan X-Ray Diffractometer (XRD) danScanning Electron Microscope-Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDX). Analisis XRD lapisan hasil flame spray sebelum uji oksidasi menunjukkan bahwa lapisan SS430 murni tersusun atas  fasa (Fe-Cr) dan lapisan SS430-10 Al terdiri atas fasa (Fe-Cr) dan Al. Hasil analisis mikrostruktur pada lapisan hasil flame spray menunjukkan bahwa dengan penambahan alumunium, lapisan yang terbentuk lebih tebal dan mengikat dengan tingkat porositas yang lebih sedikit. Namun, evaluasi oksidasi menunjukkan bahwa lapisan SS430 murni memiliki ketahanan terhadap oksidasi yang lebih baik dibandingkan dengan lapisan SS430-10Al dan substrat tanpa coating.
KONTRIBUSI ADITIF SUCCINONITRILE (SN) PADA PERFORMA ELEKTROLIT PADAT LIBOB UNTUK BATERAI LI-ION
Authors: Sabrina Qolby , Lestariningsih Titik , Ratri Christin Rina , Lalasari Latifa Hanum
Published: December 2020

Pengembangan elektrolit polimer padat untuk substitusi elektolit cair bertujuan untuk mengurangi kebocoran pada sistem baterai. Performa elektrolit polimer padat masih terus ditingkatkan agar memiliki konduktifitas ionik sebanding dengan performa elektrolit cair. Salah satu upaya peningkatan performa elektrolit polimer padat dengan menambahkan Succinonitrile (SN). SN merupakan matriks serbaguna untuk menghantarkan Li-ion dalam elektrolit padat, tingginya polaritas SN diharapkan dapat membantu pemisahan ion lithium yang berasal dari garam elektrolit LiBOB. Peningkatan mobilitas ion akan menghasilkan konduktifitas ion yang tinggi. Penambahan Jumlah SN dalam pembuatan elektrolit padat dibuat bervariasi dengan metode mixing slurry dan solution casting. Hasil karakterisasi  FESEM dan XRD dengan penambahan SN 32% memperlihatkan adanya lubang pori dan mempunyai bentuk struktur amorf, hal ini akan memudahkan ion lithium untuk berpindah secara merata. Hasil pengujian TGA/DSC  menunjukkan elektrolit polimer padat  akan mengalami kestabilan sampai pada temperatur 117oC dengan kehilangan berat sebesar 25,1% dan nilai derajad kristalinitas adalah paling kecil.  Penambahan SN 32%  menunjukkan jendela tegangan stabilitas elektrokimia 2.2 volt cukup lebar dari hasil karakterisasi Linier Sweep Voltammetry. Pengukuran konduktifitas ionik dilakukan menggunakan EIS, hasilnya memperlihatkan nilai konduktifitas elektrolit polimer padat dengan penambahan SN 32%  sebesar  6,711x10-8 S/cm, masih lebih kecil bila dibandingkan dengan kisaran nilai konduktifitas elektrolit cair. Optimasi jumlah penambahan SN pada elektrolit padat masih harus dilakukan untuk mencapai performa baterai yang lebih baik.
SINTESA AL2O3 DARI SERBUK BOEHMITE MENGGUNAKAN TEKNIK SPARK PLASMA SINTERING (SPS): STUDI TRANSFORMASI FASA, MIKROSTRUKTUR DAN KEKERASAN
Authors: Ayu Diastati Puspita Ning , Hermanto Bambang , Tjahjono Arif , Sudiro Toto
Published: December 2020

Pada studi ini, telah disintesa bulk alumina dari serbuk boehmite menggunakan teknik spark plasma sintering (SPS) pada temperatur 650oC, 750oC, 950oC, 1100oC, 1200oC dan 1300oC. Transformasi fasa dari boehmite menjadi α-Al2O3, mikrostruktur dan sifat mekaniknya dipelajari pada rentang temperatur 650-1300oC. Struktur fasa yang terbentuk dianalisa dengan X-ray diffractometer (XRD), dan nilai crystallite size, lattice strain serta dislocation density di hitung berdasarkan hasil analisa puncak difraksi XRD. Morfologi permukaan sampel diobservasi dengan menggunakan alat optical micoscope (OM). Karakteristik mekanik sampel yang terdiri atas nilai kerapatan massa dan kekerasan sampel masing-masing diukur menggunakan prinsip Archimedes dan vickers microhardness. Hasil XRD menunjukkan bahwa -alumina mulai terbentuk pada temperatur 1100oC, namun masih terdapat struktur lain yaitu -alumina. Struktur -alumina terbentuk sempurna pada temperatur 1300oC. Hasil perhitungan menunjukkan bahwa nilai crystallite size berbanding terbalik dengan nilai lattice strain dan dislocation density. Analisa mikrostruktur dengan menggunakan OM menunjukkan bahwa pada temperatur 650oC dan 750oC sampel belum homogen. Nilai kekerasan dan kerapatan massa sampel meningkat seiring dengan kenaikan temperatur sintering.
Assistência de Enfermagem nas Urgências e Emergências no Atendimento aos Pacientes com Crises Hipertensivas / Nursing Assistance in Emergencies and Emergencies in Care of Patients with Hypertensive Crises
Authors: Lopes Edson Lima , Bezerra Martha Maria Macedo
Published: December 2020

Resumo: Hipertensão arterial sistêmica (HAS) é uma categoria clínica multifatorial caracterizada por níveis superiores e sustentados de pressão arterial (PA), é motivo frequente de procura por pronto-socorro, sendo possível que muitos pacientes recebam erroneamente um diagnóstico de crise hipertensiva e, consequentemente, um tratamento inapropriado. O objetivo deste estudo é conhecer a percepção dos profissionais diante da assistência de enfermagem nas urgências e emergências no atendimento intra e extra hospitalar com o quadro hipertensivo. Esta pesquisa trata-se de uma revisão de literatura, na qual consiste em analisar as pesquisas relevantes e sintetizar os resultados sobre o tema em questão. Foram pesquisadas 30 referências e utilizadas 20, os estudos descartados não ofereciam fidedignidade das informações e não se adequavam ao assunto. É visto que a saúde coletiva no Brasil é muitas vezes negligenciada, no entanto esta população inclui-se nos principais óbitos causados por muitas vezes de uma boa assistência prestada, e outras doenças crônicas. Com isso visa-se a necessidade de uma capacitação dos profissionais, para que estes estejam aptos a desenvolver, promover educação continuada tanto para os pacientes como pra os próprios profissionais, para tomar medidas que facilitem o acesso dinâmico e rápida de resolução para o usuário. Descritores: Assistência de enfermagem, crise hipertensiva, urgências, emergências.
A língua, a lei e a cisnormatividade
Authors: Glauco Damião Souza da Silva
Published: December 2020

RESUMO: Este trabalho destinou-se a explorar, a partir de um estudo de caso, sobre como o discurso jurídico pode ser um instrumento de normatização e dominação. O nosso interesse centrou-se nas relações entre a recontextualização e representação dos atores sociais, buscando compreender  as funções das escolhas linguísticas utilizadas para a construção argumentativa da decisão judicial. Assim, nos debruçamos sobre a execução de uma decisão judicial a respeito do uso de banheiros por pessoas trans, investigando os componentes e estratégias textuais, discursivas e ideológicas de sua composição. Para estes fins, utilizamos a abordagem dialético-relacional de Estudos Críticos do Discurso (FAIRCLOUGH, 2003; 2004; 2009), recorrendo as categorias de modalização, avaliação e representação de atores sociais (VAN LEEUWEN, 2008), além de correlacionarmos aos modos gerais de operação da ideologia (THOMPSON, 2011). Tendemos a observar que, na amostra em questão, a partir de um processo de recontextualização, a autora do processo, antes vítima de discriminação de gênero, passou a exercer características de agente causadora das ações que pleiteava, de maneira que assumiu a função de “agente” na grande parte das construções sintático-semânticas dos eventos negativos. Por outro lado, a parte ré foi representada como conciliadora e pacífica, com agência suprimida ou em segundo plano, nos eventos de valor negativo. Por fim, em nossa análise, notabilizamos que o caráter poroso da linguagem foi utilizado para ordenar manobras argumentativas que culminaram em uma tomada de decisão discriminatória e excludente e que urge de maiores reflexões sobre ações jurídicas cisnormativas que não reconhecem o direito das pessoas trans.

Palavras-chave: Linguística Forense; Estudos Críticos do Discurso; Discriminação de Gênero; Acórdão; O uso de banheiro por pessoas trans.
En torno al estudio del discurso social ‒ Entrevista a Marc Angenot
Authors: Vitale María Alejandra
Published: December 2020

En torno al estudio del discurso social ‒ Entrevista a Marc Angenot
Effect of Hands-on Science Activities on the Ghanaian Student: A Preliminary Control Study
Authors: Beem Heather
Published: December 2020

A quasi-experimental study was carried out with 309 students across 9 public Junior High Schools in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana. The effect of $<$Blinded Institution$>$'s approach of training STEM teachers on low-cost approaches to employing hands-on activities was studied in terms of student learning and attitudes towards science. Experimental schools received weekly teacher training over a 2.5 month period. Pre-post differences were measured across both experimental and control schools. The intervention caused an average difference-in-differences of 10.9% increase in exam scores, but the results were mixed at the school-level. The intervention caused a significant increase in student engagement in the lessons (p = 3 x 10-7, g = 0.85). On average, there was also a 22% greater increase in student enjoyment of science at the experimental schools than the control schools. No significant change was measured in the ease of learning science. Females reported a significant shift in interest towards STEM majors and careers, while their male counterparts did not. Results from this study should inform the design of future studies with longer duration and which take factors such as quality of school infrastructure into account.
Transformational Leadership and Wealth Creation in Educational Organizations: The Case of Higher Education in Cameroon
Authors: Teneng Patience P.
Published: December 2020

Education is a trillion-dollar industry, booming, with a growing population thirsty for knowledge. There has been tremendous influx of graduates in this industry, seeking for self-reliance since obtaining a decent job upon graduation remains a nightmare particularly in developing countries. Consequently, the surroundings of all state and private universities in Cameroon are overcrowded with educational subsidiary firms created by graduates. Most of these firms intend to metamorphose into giant self-reliant enterprises while mitigating the problem of graduate unemployment. This hardly happens as most end at ground levels, while others close down in less than 5 years of existence.  The question that arises is; what hinders these small and medium-sized education businesses from thriving? This study surveyed 210 small and medium-sized educational firms, selected through the clustering technique. The SWOT analysis technique was used to determine the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats to these firms. Results revealed little or no leadership education, specifically in wealth creation as a major weakness, that threatens these firms from thriving. The multiple regression further confirms the absence of transformational leadership education as a statistical predictor to setbacks in these firms. Key recommendations call for mainstreaming pragmatic transformational and strategic leadership education in higher education courses, using the case of the Faculty of education of the University of Yaoundé I.  learners should be opened to the world of business through meaningful partnership with the world of work, and quality entrepreneurship courses as well.
Critical success factors for implementing learning analytics in higher education: A mixed-method inquiry
Authors: Clark Jo-Anne , Liu Yulin , Isaias Pedro
Published: December 2020

Critical success factors (CSFs) have been around since the late 1970s and have been used extensively in information systems implementations. CSFs provide a comprehensive understanding of the multiple layers and dimensions of implementation success. In the specific context of learning analytics (LA), identifying CSFs can maximise the possibilities of an effective implementation and harness the value of converting data into actionable information. This paper proposes a framework that aims to identify and explore the CSFs for the implementation of LA within the higher education sector by examining the viewpoints of higher education professionals. To obtain a rounded insight into stakeholders’ perceptions, we conducted a mixed-method inquiry with factor analysis, profile analysis and thematic analysis of both quantitative and qualitative data collected with an online questionnaire from an international sample. The responses validate five CSFs of LA implementation: strategy and policy at organisational level, information technological readiness, performance and impact evaluation, people’s skills and expertise and data quality. Results also disclose diverse views about the CSFs’ priorities and the associated difficulties and achievements.

Implications for practice or policy:

Higher education practitioners should consider CSFs for implementing an LA initiative successfully.

This study validates five dimensions of the CSFs of implementing LA in higher education.

The validated framework enumerates several factors in each of the main dimensions for achieving optimum results.

Stakeholders have diverse opinions about the priorities of CSFs, particularly in organisational commitment, data quality and human capital.
Pomarańcze na drutach Witolda Wirpszy. Kłopoty z rozumieniem eksperymentu prozatorskiego w świetle przed-tekstu
Authors: Pawelec Dariusz
Published: December 2020

Szkic przedstawia nową interpretację powieści Witolda Wirpszy Pomarańcze na drutach (1964), możliwą dzięki mikroanalizie przed-tekstów. Są to przede wszystkim materiały z archiwum pisarza zachowane w Książnicy Pomorskiej w Szczecinie, w tym 39 kart maszynopisu zawierających polski tekst pierwszej redakcji powieści z jesieni 1946 roku oraz listy pisane przez Wirpszę z oflagu w Gross Born do przyszłej żony Marii Kureckiej. Wczesny odbiór Pomarańczy na drutach zdominowany został przez pytanie o jej formę oraz uznanie formy poetyckiej jako wyznacznika wartości i gwarancji sensu tego prozatorskiego przedsięwzięcia. Autor interpretacji wychodzi od pytania, czy na tle istniejących dokumentów recepcji uprawnione będą interpretacyjne sugestie dokonywane ponad językową i „poetycką” tkanką tekstu, czy zasadne będzie wskazanie klucza do rozumienia powieści poza jej nastawieniem na sam język i poza właściwościami typowymi dla nurtu lingwistycznego w poezji, z którym kojarzony jest Wirpsza. Interpretacja odwołująca się do śladów pozostawionych w przed-tekstach wychodzi od rozumienia tytułu w kategoriach symbolu, powiązanego z odrealnionym, onirycznym, na wpół fantastycznym opisem oflagowego świata przedstawionego. Przegląd dokumentów genezy pozwala włączyć do próby zrozumienia powieści i jej tytułu, oprócz pierwszej wersji utworu z roku 1946, listy autora powstałe w bezpośredniej relacji z powieściową czasoprzestrzenią. Według niniejszej propozycji interpretacyjnej przynoszą one odpowiedź na pytanie o „początek początku”, albowiem to w nich właśnie odnaleźć można „realnie istniejące wskazówki pierwszego śladu” (wedle terminologii, jaką proponuje Pierre-Marc de Biasi).
W meandrach akademickiej wspólnoty – (za)myślenie
Authors: Kromolicka Barbara
Published: December 2020

The article presents socio-cultural changes which have been taking place in the academic environment  as a result of the process of implemented higher education reform and social change undergoing in the society. The author discusses the process of a university transformation which, while subject to economic challenges, changes substantially the quality of the functioning of the academic community.
„Fotoobrazy”, „fotogłosy” i „fotonarracje” w badaniach pedagogicznych
Authors: Nowotniak Justyna
Published: December 2020

The dynamic development of the visual culture requires a revised approach and thinking about its role in didactic process and its presence in scientific research. The key goals of the author’s scientific interest in the different aspects of the visual aspect are as follows: to join the discussion on if and how to utilize photography in research on education, to rework the selected imaging techniques and analytical methods in this very context, and to carry out an interpretation of the visual material. The article references the outcomes obtained so far by an author.
Nuda szkolnego wychowania do życia w rodzinie
Authors: Buchnat Marzena , Chmura-Rutkowska Iwona , Gulczyńska Anna
Published: December 2020

Despite a lot of scientific research and study, sexual education issues as an element of formal education are still considered to be a controversial subject. Those challenges, dilemmas, controversies or difficulties relate to many areas, connected both with form and organization of classes, teachers, and also (at more general level) with some ministerial indications or school management. All the above matters directly influence what sexual education classes look like and what the students’ experience is. It is disturbing that the sexual education subject at school was generally considered to be boring according to the respondents. Therefore, it has been decided to analyze why classes which are non-obligatory but important and wanted by students are considered boring and out of touch with life.
Does the School Last Immutably or Unchanged? Egalitarianism and Elitism in the Approach to Education in the Era of Globalisation, Technopolisation, Instant Culture
Authors: Przybyła Mariusz
Published: December 2020

Globalisation and new media have completely changed the living environment of modern humanity. Technologies have entered almost all spheres of human existence. Education also could not (should not) remain unchanged. The presence of electronic media in the educational process forces a thinking pedagogue to ask questions, including the following: Who are the digital natives and the digital immigrants? Is the contemporary school on the verge of a chance that it has not had so far? Is this an opportunity to enrich and develop human cognitive function, using the available technical means, by deliberately influencing the course of a number of human life processes, including our development?
Коронавирус: что может сделать и делает Европейский союз
Authors: Babynina Ludmila
Published: December 2020

Тяжелая ситуация с распространением коронавируса в Европе закономерно привела к целому ряду ответных мер со стороны национальных правительств. Во многих государствах ЕС стали звучать обвинения в бездействии в адрес общеевропейских органов власти. Однако, они не имеют под собой достаточных оснований, поскольку функции и возможности деятельности Евросоюза четко ограничены в основополагающем договоре ЕС. Автор анализирует, что именно и в каких областях может сделать и уже делает Евросоюз для борьбы с коронавирусом и его последствиями, где его действия наиболее эффективны, и к каким результатам привели односторонние меры государств-членов.