bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Collagen Supplements for Aging and Wrinkles: A Paradigm Shift in the Field of Dermatology and Cosmetics
Authors: Al-Atif Hend
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Slowing the aging process by use of collagen supplements has become a driving force in the field of dermatology and cosmetics. Generally, oral and topical collagen are used in anti-aging products, as reported in the literature.
Objectives: The overarching goal of this research is to collate the consequences of oral collagen with those of topical collagen in reducing or delaying the aging process.
Methods: We executed an electronic search in Google Scholar and PubMed. We considered a study eligible if it was original research, published in English between 2010 and 2020, and if it provided information on the topic of collagen and aging. We retrieved 12 full-text articles, and these were assessed by reviewers independently.
Results: All human studies included in the review were randomized controlled trials mainly conducted in high- to middle-income countries which highlighted that both oral and topical collagen supplements help to delay the aging process, with no differences arising between the two types of collagen. The evidence from the reviewed studies suggested that both collagen supplements improve skin moisture, elasticity, and hydration when orally administered. Additionally, collagen reduces the wrinkling and roughness of the skin, and existing studies have not found any side effects of its oral supplements.
Conclusions: Both oral and topical collagen can contribute to reducing or delaying skin aging. Future epidemiological studies with large sample sizes and thorough follow-up measures would be required to comprehensively understand the potential effects of these two types of collagen on the aging process.
The Function Argument in the Eudemian Ethics
Authors: Lee Roy C. ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: February 2022

This paper reconstructs the function argument of Aristotle’s Eudemian Ethics 2.1. The argument (1) seeks to define happiness through the method of division; (2) shows that the highest good is better than all four of the goods of the soul, not only two, as commentators have thought; and (3) unlike the Nicomachean argument, makes the highest good definitionally independent of the human function.
τὰ πολλὰ ἥσσω νοῦ
Authors: Lesher J. H. ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: February 2022

Diogenes Laertius reports that Xenophanes of Colophon said that τὰ πολλὰ ἥσσω νοῦ εἶναι— on one defensible translation: that ‘many things are weaker than mind.’ The remark has been interpreted in various ways, none of them entirely convincing. However, a review of the relevant fragments and ancient testimonia will provide the basis for a credible interpretation. Ultimately, it will emerge that the remark reflects Xenophanes’ understanding of the relationship between the divine mind and the cosmos.
Good for Anything?
Authors: Weiss Roslyn ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: February 2022

This paper aims to show that in Republic ii Glaucon and Adeimantus contend that being just is not a good of any kind; it is the good consequences of seeming just that place it in Glaucon’s third and lowest class of goods. The brothers challenge Socrates to prove that being just has good consequences. They do not ask him to prove that being just is good for itself apart from its consequences, nor is this something he attempts to prove.
Aristotle on Personal Enmity
Authors: Echeñique Sosa Javier , Errazuriz Besa Jose Antonio ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: February 2022

In this paper we develop Aristotle’s remarks about personal enmity (ἔχθρα) into a systematic account, with a view to determining whether personal enmity has a role to play in the good life. We argue that such an account can be obtained by examining Aristotle’s claims about hatred, and that this examination reveals that there is a significant place for enmity in Aristotle’s conception of the good life.
“Streichen Wir das Bewußtsein, so Streichen Wir die Welt.”
Authors: De Santis Daniele ,   Canadian Society for Continental Philosophy
Published: February 2022

This paper presents a systematic discussion of Edith Stein’s critical understanding of Husserl’s transcendental-phenomenological idealism. After a brief explanation of the way in which, according to Stein, Husserl’s idealism should be framed, this paper offers an evaluation of her criticism with a special focus on her Introduction to Philosophy lectures of 1920. I argue that if, ultimately, Stein’s rejection of Husserl’s idealism in the text in question is deemed unsuccessful, we must examine the premises on which her own per-spective on the eidetics of nature is based.
Cosmologie et création ex nihilo chez Cornelius Castoriadis
Authors: Tranchant Thibault ,   Canadian Society for Continental Philosophy
Published: February 2022

L’un des gestes distinctifs de Cornelius Castoriadis fut de rapporter l’histoire de la philosophie à un concept de création « ex nihilo », qu’il définissait comme surgissement immotivé et irréductible de nouvelles déterminations formelles de l’être dans le temps. Cet article s’intéresse à la signification d’un tel parti pris pour l’instruction de la question cosmologique, entendue comme enquête sur les principes et le devenir de la totalité de l’être. L’auteur montre dans un premier temps comment Castoriadis a justifié sa position ontologique à partir d’une réflexion sur l’histoire de la science. Il la rapporte ensuite à deux voies possibles afin de résoudre la question cosmologique : la dialectique et la complexité. Il est soutenu que l’intention de Castoriadis ne fut pas de produire une cosmologie comme telle, mais de rapporter la pratique scientifique à la création et d’expliciter les conditions de possibilité de son intellection.
The effect of reticulocyte hemoglobin content on the diagnosis of iron deficiency anemia: A meta-analysis study
Authors: Kılıç Merve , Özpınar Aysel , Serteser Mustafa , Kilercik Meltem , Serdar Muhittin
Published: February 2022

Background: Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is the most common type of anemia worldwide and has many adverse effects on life quality. This meta-analysis study aims to show that reticulocyte hemoglobin content (CHr) is more effective than routinely used parameters in the diagnosis of IDA. Methods: Comprehensive and systematic research was done using international databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Science Direct, and Google Scholar, which contain all articles published on IDA until December 29, 2020. Seventeen articles were included in the meta-analysis. Results: The analyses found the Cohen's deffect size (Standardized Mean Difference) values of the parameters. Accordingly, CHr is 2.84 (95% CI 2.36 to 3.31), mean corpus volume (MCV) is 2.46 (95% CI 1.97 to 2.95), ferritin is 2.37 (95% CI 1.63 to 3.11), and transferrin saturation (TSAT) is 3.76 (95% CI 2.14 to 5.38). To diagnose IDA, the sensitivity value of the CHr concentration was found as 83.5% (95% CI 76.1 to 89.8), specificity value to be 91.8% (95% CI 85.5 to 96.4), and mean cut-off value as 28.2 pg. Conclusions: The results of our study reveal the findings that CHr is a better biomarker than MCV and ferritin used in determining IDA, and its efficacy is lower than TSAT. It is very important to use it routinely for the pre-diagnosis of IDA, which is very important for public health. The groups in the study are heterogeneous but contain bias. Therefore, meta-analyses of studies with less heterogeneity of CHr are needed.
Establishing reference intervals for von Willebrand factor multimers
Authors: Pikta Marika , Vasse Marc , Smock Kristi , Moser Karen , van Dievoet , Lejniece Sandra , Szanto Timea , Bautista Hector , Nouadje George , Banys Valdas
Published: February 2022

Background: von Willebrand factor (VWF) multimers (VWF:MM) methodologies are technically difficult, laborious, time consuming, non-standardized and results vary between laboratories. A new semi automated VWF:MM assay is available for routine use (Sebia). Due to lack of reference values for VWF:MM fractions, results interpretation can be challenging in some cases. The aim of this study was to determine reference intervals for low molecular weight (LMWM), intermediate molecular weight (IMWM) and high molecular weight (HMWM) multimers. Methods: By the international cooperation initiated between 4 countries (Estonia, Latvia, France, and USA) 131 samples of relatively healthy individuals were analyzed for VWF:MM (in total 51 males and 80 non-pregnant females aged 17-69 years). Reference intervals were calculated according to CLSI C28-A3 standard. Results: The proposed reference intervals for VWF:MM were calculated for LMWM 10.4-22.5%, IMWM 22.6-37.6%, HMWM 45.6-66.6%. Age related differences were seen in IMWM and HMWM (p<0.001 and 0.038). There was no gender related difference observed. Geographically LMWM results of France were different from the other regions (p<0.05). Conclusions: Quantification of VWF:MM fractions, in addition to qualitative assessment of VWF:MM patterns, has the potential to aid in differential diagnosis of von Willebrand disease (VWD) subtypes. The reference values calculated in this study can be used in future research to establish clinical decision limits.
Application of quasi-f -power increasing sequence in absolute ph - |C, a, b; d; l| of infinite series
Authors: Sonker Smita , Jindal Rozy , Mishra Lakshmi
Published: February 2022

An increasing quasi-f-power sequence of a wider class has been used to establish a universal theorem on a least set of conditions, which is sufficient for an infinite series to be generalized ph-|C, a, b; d; l| k summable. Further, a set of new and well-known arbitrary results have been obtained by using the main theorem. Considering suitable conditions a previous result has been obtained, which validates the current findings. In this way, Bounded Input Bounded Output(BIBO) stability of impulse has been improved by finding a minimal set of sufficient condition for absolute summability because absolute summable is the necessary and sufficient conditions for BIBO stability.
Applications of Borel distribution series on holomorphic and bi-univalent functions
Authors: Wanas Abbas , Al Amoush
Published: February 2022

In present manuscript, we introduce and study two families BS(l, d; a) and B * S (l, d; b) of holomorphic and bi-univalent functions which involve the Borel distribution series. We establish upper bounds for the initial Taylor-Maclaurin coefficients |a2| and |a3| for functions in each of these families. We also point out special cases and consequences of our results.
Application of the Hunter prothesis in reconstruction of the hand flexor tendons
Authors: Matić Slađana , Milutinović Suzana , Gambiroža Katarina , Vukman Petar , Korica Stefan
Published: February 2022

Flexor tendon injuries, especially in zone 2, still present a surgical challenge, even in cases of recent injuries and early reconstruction. Today`s generally accepted attitude is, in obsolete cases, that the best functional results are achieved by reconstruction within two acts, with the silicone Hunter prosthesis used. In previous five years in our Department of Microsurgery and Reconstructive Surgery, we used this prosthesis in seven cases: six patients were male, and their average age was around 41.71 ± 13.52. In addition, there were four patients previously operated in other hospitals. Phalanx fractures, soft tissue defects, and neurovascular lesions were injuries associated with hand flexor tendons. The average time from the injury to the Hunter prosthesis application was 30.28 ± 23.96 weeks (10 to 86 weeks). When using this implant, the precise instructions of sterilization and installation procedure, given by manufacturer, must be followed. Absolute contraindications for the use of Hunter prosthesis are: presence of infection, insufficient circulation of the finger, destruction of the finger nerves and severe joint contractures. Risks during silicone implant placement are infection, fracture of prothesis, loosening, and dislocation. It is important to make the right decision when entering in this type of surgery. The final result may not often meet the patient's expectations and may worsen over time, requiring revision surgery.
Modeling of geothermal evolution of sedimentary rocks in East Herzegovina based on vitrinite reflectance
Authors: Aleksić Nikoleta
Published: February 2022

This paper presents the first results of the geothermal evolution modeling in East Herzegovina based on vitrinite reflectance calculations and measurements. Modeling of burial and geothermal was performed using "SimpleMat" software with well known kinetic model of vitrinite reflectance - EASY % Ro. By fitting the calculated reflectance values with mean measured vitrinite reflectances, it was concluded that there was erosion of some 900 m in the area, and that first possible petroleum generation could have started some 100 Ma ago. According to final calibration model that includes additional thickness and subsequent erosion of Paleogene sequence, the Upper Triassic sediments should have maturity from 0.70 to 1.1 % Rr, Lower Jurassic from 0.62 to 0.70 % Rr, whereas Upper Cretaceous sediments should have values from 0.40 to 0.60 % Rr, which is in accordance with measured vitrinite reflectance in 23 samples. Assuming that beginning of oil window in the East Herzegovina correspond to the vitrinite reflectance of 0.50 % Rr, all analyzed Mesozoic samples are at the initial stage of catagenesis ("oil window"), while Cenozoic sediments are at the stage of diagenesis.
Improvement of at-welding technology of railway rails with different cross sections
Authors: Manojlović Vaso , Kamberović Željko , Sokić Miroslav , Momčilović Dejan , Gavrilovski Milorad
Published: February 2022

The paper presents a new aluminothermic (AT) welding technology of 49E1 transition rails on 60E1 (EN 13674-1: 2005), based on entirely new materials. It refers to sand molds in which the shape and dimensions of the inflow system are designed to meet all requirements for achieving welded joints of a given quality. The AT mixture was also designed to fulfill those requests; resulting liquid steel has a casting temperature that ensures optimal castability of the metal and slag viscosity. The paper presents the test results of the transients welded joints, following the standards JŽS.Z2.610 and EN 14730-1: 2012, and relates to the determination of mechanical properties of welded joints macrostructural and microstructural characteristics, homogeneity, and chemical composition of thermite steel. The obtained results show that the applied technology is optimal because it ensures the use of this technology in industrial conditions on the railway.
José Romera Castillo, Francisco Gutiérrez Carbajo y Mario García-Page (eds.): Literatura y multimedia. Madrid: Visor Libros, 1997, 386 pp.
Authors: Piñol María Cruz
Published: February 2022

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VV.AA.: Intertextualité (Francia en el origen de un término y el desarrollo de un concepto). Selección y traducción de Desiderio Navarro. La Habana: UNEAD, Casa de las Américas, Embajada de Francia en Cuba, 1997
Authors: Álamo Felices Francisco
Published: February 2022

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Presentación
Authors: Romera Castillo José
Published: February 2022

En este apartado se recogen algunas de las conferencias impartidas en el curso El teatro en España en la década de los noventa, celebra do en Ávila (del 12 al 16 de julio de 1999), inserto en los X Cursos de Verano de la UNED, bajo la dirección de José Romera Castillo. En el citado curso intervinieron, además, Andrés Amorós (Catedrático de la Universidad Complutense), Eduardo Galán (Dramaturgo y Subdirector General de Teatro), Rafael Pérez Sierra (Director de la Compañía Nacional de Teatro Clásico), Luciano García Lorenzo (Director del Festival de Almagro) y Yolanda Pallín (Dramaturga). Se añaden dos nuevos textos: el panorama de Xosé Manuel Fernando Castro (sobre el teatro gallego de los noventa) y el texto de Juan Mayorga, Cartas de amor a Stalin.
Ãndice de temperatura e umidade para o desenvolvimento da avicultura no Nordeste de Mato Grosso
Authors: Borges Pedro Hurtado de Mendoza , Lima Heder José D'Avila , Morais Pedro Hurtado de Mendoza , Mendoza Zaíra Morais dos Santos Hurtado de
Published: February 2022

A pesquisa teve como objetivo estimar o índice de temperatura e umidade (ITU) em municípios localizados no nordeste mato-grossense, visando caracterizar o seu perfil bioclimático para a implementação da avicultura nessa mesorregião. Neste estudo foram utilizados os dados horários da temperatura de bulbo seco e da umidade relativa do ar, registrados nas duas estações meteorológicas convencionais da região nordeste de Mato Grosso, localizadas nos municípios de Canarana e Nova Xavantina. As informações corresponderam a uma série histórica de 32 anos, entre 01/01/1988 e 31/12/2020, nos horários de 00:00, 12:00 e 18:00 horas, disponíveis no Banco de Dados Meteorológicos para Ensino e Pesquisa do Instituto Nacional de Meteorologia (INMET). Os procedimentos para a análise dos dados foram realizados com auxílio do Programa R. Dessa forma, determinaram-se as estatísticas descritivas mensais das séries históricas e em seguida elaboraram-se os gráficos de colunas com base nos valores de ITU. Nesses gráficos foram indicados os valores médios mensais de ITU, bem como os limites adequados para as poedeiras e as aves de corte em cada semana do ciclo de produção, com a finalidade de qualificar o conforto térmico ambiental nos dois municípios. Concluiu-se que o índice de temperatura e umidade (ITU) possibilitou identificar o perfil bioclimático na mesorregião Nordeste de Mato Grosso para a implementação da avicultura, em função dos meses do ano. As condições climáticas da referida região foram favoráveis à avicultura de postura, sem ocasionar elevados custos nas modificações ambientais para o controle do microclima em aviários. Porém, a aptidão bioclimática da região avaliada não foi adequada para a avicultura de corte, principalmente nas últimas quatro semanas, sendo necessários investimentos extras na climatização dos galpões. A metodologia aplicada apresentou-se como uma ferramenta apropriada para estimar o conforto térmico mensal, auxiliando na tomada de decisões em relação à implantação de aviários nessa região.
Monitoring the water quality Formoso river of the Amazon Region â€“ Brazil using principal component analysis
Authors: Guarda Patricia Martins , Rambo Magale Karine Diel , Machado Mayana Mendes Dias , Ramos Fabrício de Oliveira , Mendes Danylo Bezerra , Guarda Emerson Adriano , Da Silva José Expedito Cavalcante
Published: February 2022

The expansion of the agricultural frontier poses a major threat to the quality of water bodies and conservation and biodiversity of biomes. In the Tocantins-Araguaia, hydrographic region is located the largest irrigated flood type rice project in the world, and in the inter-harvest period, the area is still used for soybean production. Considering the great economic, environmental and social importance of the area, the objective of this study was to evaluate the water quality Considering the great economic, environmental and social importance of the area, the objective of this study was to evaluate the water quality of a river in the Amazon Region, Brazil, and to identify the critical pollution sites in the area of influence of the agricultural project. The monitoring occurred between April 2018 and February 2019, during periods of drought and drought. The water quality was evaluated based on the determination of 34 physical-chemical and 2 microbiological parameters. The comparison of the values obtained with the limits allowed by the legislation for class II waters pointed out samples with high total phosphorus values, which can lead to eutrophication phenomena, concentrations above the expected of metals such as Fe, Cu, and Mn and samples with low percentage of dissolved oxygen. The main component analysis (PCA) showed little variation along the river, i.e., homogeneity in the different points evaluated in the same collection; however, the comparison between collections with different seasonalities revealed quite divergent results, reinforcing that seasonal variations can aggravate the changes in the water quality of the river.
Rede de pesquisadores e instituições atuando na descrição de espécies de peixes da ecorregião Tocantins-Araguaia
Authors: Guedes Tharles Lopes de Oliveira , Marques Elineide Eugênio , Alves José Robson Mariano
Published: February 2022

A ecorregião Tocantins-Araguaia corresponde à área da bacia Tocantins-Araguaia à montante da UHE-Tucuruí. Nessa região a ictiofauna é diversificada com centenas de espécies descritas. Assim, neste estudo o objetivo foi revelar a rede de pesquisadores e instituições envolvidas nas descrições originais de 270 espécies de peixes com localidade tipo dentro da ecorregião Tocantins-Araguaia de 1831 a 2019, considerando 205 publicações com participação de 157 autores. As primeiras descrições foram realizadas por pesquisadores e instituições internacionais e, gradativamente, substituídas pelas nacionais. A partir da década de 1970 os pesquisadores e instituições brasileiras protagonizaram a descrição de espécies, mantendo colaborações estrangeiras. As descrições foram publicadas em 49 periódicos, sendo as mais frequentes Ichthyological Exploration of Freshwaters, Neotropical Ichthyology, Zootaxa e Copeia. A maioria dos artigos contou com a participação de um (36,1%) ou dois autores (39,0%) e uma (50,6%) ou duas instituições (36,4%), sendo 5,3% deles escritos em português. Os resultados sugerem uma tendência ascendente na descrição de espécies nas últimas décadas, fruto de uma ação colaborativa entre pesquisadores e instituições nacionais e internacionais. No entanto, a melhoria do acesso e popularização da informação deve contribuir para a disseminação do conhecimento e inspirar novos pesquisadores a se envolverem com a temática, considerando as lacunas existentes. Portanto, a promoção de ações que possibilitem aos cidadãos acesso ao conhecimento científico de forma mais fácil é uma das etapas importantes nesse processo.
Genotoxicidade do uso de agrotóxicos em horticultores da região metropolitana de Goiânia-GO, Brasil
Authors: Silva Regisnei Aparecido de Oliveira , Silva Ana Carolina Graça Carvalho , Silva Daniela de Melo , Souza Marcelino Benvindo de
Published: February 2022

Com o aumento da produtividade e o modelo de política agrícola adotado, o uso de agrotóxicos no Brasil cresceu em larga escala nos últimos anos. Esse contexto, gera uma preocupação quanto aos efeitos nocivos da exposição dos trabalhadores agrícolas a esses produtos. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a frequência de dano genotóxico em horticultores expostos aos agrotóxicos na Região Metropolitana de Goiânia-GO. A investigação foi conduzida por meio do ensaio cometa, na tentativa de caracterizar os grupos de risco mais propensos aos efeitos nocivos dos pesticidas, visando gerar um alerta para os danos causados na saúde dos trabalhadores. O grupo foi constituído por 65 indivíduos com faixa etária de 22 a 72 anos, expostos no período de 1 a 16 anos. Foram feitas análises para variáveis como: hábito do consumo de bebida alcoolicas, tabagismo, relação entre homens e mulheres, e uso de EPIs. Tais variáveis foram associadas aos parâmetros do ensaio cometa, contudo, não foram observadas diferenças significativas para uma série de variáveis investigadas para o dano no DNA.
Avaliação da qualidade da água em uma represa utilizada para abastecimento público no município de Sorocaba/SP
Authors: Silva Tatiana Acácio da , Duarte Miqueias Lima , Coelho Cecília Maria de Paula , Oliveira Victor Eduardo de , Costa Pedro Bartholo , Guandique Manuel Enrique Gamero
Published: February 2022

A água é um recurso essencial para a existência de vida na Terra, o Brasil possui um vasto potencial hídrico, entretanto sua distribuição espacial não coincide com as maiores aglomerações populacionais o que, consequentemente, exige dos gestores mais esforços para superar a escassez hídrica. Visando atender a demanda hídrica são implementados reservatórios para armazenamento desse recurso. Entretanto, as atividades antrópicas desenvolvidas no contexto das bacias hidrográficas têm influenciado sua qualidade e capacidade de armazenamento. Nesse sentido, este trabalho teve por objetivo avaliar a qualidade da água na represa Clemente localizada na região metropolitana de Sorocaba. Foi realizado uma amostragem de água uma vez por mês entre janeiro de 2016 a dezembro de 2019, sendo realizado a análise de parâmetros físico-químicos e biológicos, bem como avaliado o Índice de Qualidade da Água – IQA, e por fim, os dados foram avaliados por meio de Análise de Componentes Principais-ACP. Apesar dos resultados obtidos mostraram pouca variação nos parâmetros físico-químicos e biológico ao longo dos anos, foi possível notar uma redução na qualidade da água do manancial. O IQA obtido ao longo do período foi considerado “Bom”, “ótimo” e “regular”. A ACP indicou que mais de 70% da variância dos dados foram explicadas por três primeiros componentes, com contribuição significativa de oxigênio dissolvido, temperatura, fósforo, DBO e Coliformes Termotolerantes, sendo que os últimos três fatores são relacionados aos poluentes de origem doméstica e industrial.
STUDY OF THE DYNAMIC BEHAVIOR OF FINE SOIL REINFORCED WITH RECYCLED POLYETHYLENE TEREPHTHALATE (PET) FIBER
Authors: HERNANDEZ VALERIO CAROLINA , BOTERO JARAMILLO EDUARDO , OSSA LOPEZ ALEXANDRA
Published: February 2022

ABSTRACT:
PET occupies a preponderant place in plastic waste in Mexico, in the last six years the post-consumer stockpiling of PET has been the highest in America and during 2017 its recovery increased by 20,000 tons per year, their increase reached 445,000 tons per year [1]. In this way, one of the alternatives to recycling PET is produce fibers to reinforce fine soils of low shear strength and high deformation like Mexico’s city soil.
For this particular case, Mexico City’s soil is notorious for its high plasticity, low strength, high compressibility and cracking tendency. Due to these, the strongest earthquakes have shown the brutal amplification and the substantial increase in the duration of the movements. In order to seek new alternatives for soil improvement in the Valley of Mexico, this study investigates the dynamic behavior of a high plasticity silty soil extracted from the former Texcoco Lake, reinforced with different PET fiber contents.
The results indicate that there is a significant modification in the dynamic parameters of the soil due to fiber inclusion, an increase in the maximum elastic shear stiffness of the soil and a significant decrease in deformation for a fiber content of 0.3% at all confining pressures, this can be useful in the construction by improving the properties of this type of soil for geotechnical works through the inclusion of synthetic fibers, the large-scale use of stone materials from loan banks for stabilizing soil can be reduced, which will also avoid requiring reinforcement geosynthetics made of new materials. According to the results obtained in this research it was developed some applications and a general construction method for geotechnical works

Key Words: Fiber-reinforcement, Soil stabilization, Seismic engineering, Unsaturated soils, Geosynthetics.
Computational Challenges of t and Related Copulas
Authors: Hintz Erik , Hofert Marius , Lemieux Christiane
Published: February 2022

The present paper addresses computational and numerical challenges when working with t copulas and their more complicated extensions, the grouped t and skew t copulas. We demonstrate how the R package nvmix can be used to work with these copulas. In particular, we discuss (quasi-)random sampling and fitting. We highlight the difficulties arising from using more complicated models, such as the lack of availability of a joint density function or the lack of an analytical form of the marginal quantile functions, and give possible solutions along with future research ideas.
Bullous lung disease in association with an isolated giant plexiform neuroma: A case report and brief review of pulmonary involvement in neurofibromatosis type 1
Authors:   Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonology, Sefako-Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa, Shongwe M S , Mpe M J
Published: February 2022

Neurofibromatosis is common. It can be accompanied by abnormalities related to the thorax. These vary in severity and can be lifethreatening. We present a case of plexiform neuroma with associated extensive bullous lung disease.
Children caught in the long shadow of COVID-19
Authors:   Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa, Dangor Z , Naidoo K D , Saloojee H , Mahdi S A
Published: February 2022

Despite the more transmissible delta variant being associated with higher rates of COVID-19 in unvaccinated adolescents, children have remained relatively spared from severe disease. Nevertheless, children are indirectly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, which threatens to have far-reaching consequences. The effect of disruptions of seasonal patterns of circulation of respiratory pathogens on future immunity against such pathogens, childhood immunisation programmes, and HIV and tuberculosis treatment programmes poses a threat to the future wellbeing of children. Furthermore, the economic devastation caused by the pandemic, including an increase in unemployment, gives rise to numerous challenges, such as food insecurity, which is likely to worsen childhood nutritional status. Also, COVID-19 has ongoing effects on the mental wellbeing of children, driven in part by the interruption of schooling and other opportunities to socialise. An increase in psychological illnesses has manifested in children consequent to the stresses of the pandemic, lockdowns, caregiver deaths. In this article, we highlight the indirect effects of COVID-19 on children, and suggest solutions to mitigate against the long-term sequelae. A focused health, nutrition, education and child protection response is required from government and healthcare practitioners to safeguard the health and wellbeing of South African children.
Complications associated with central venous lines for paediatric oncology patients at Universitas Academic Hospital, Bloemfontein, from 1992 to 2018
Authors:   Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa, Mokone L , Ndove P , Magooa K , Tsilo K , Rampeta R , Brits E , Joubert G
Published: February 2022

Background. Central venous access devices are associated with complications such as central-line infections and systemic sepsis. Objective. To determine the complication rates associated with central venous lines used to administer chemotherapy at the Paediatric Haematology Oncology Unit, Universitas Academic Hospital, Bloemfontein, from January 1992 to March 2018. Methods. A retrospective descriptive analysis of paediatric oncology patients who received intravenous catheterisation and were treated at the unit. Cases with incomplete data, age >16 years and treatment after 31 March 2018 were excluded. Results. Records of 293 Hickman lines were analysed. The median patient age was 64.7 months. Sepsis was noted in 13.3% of the cases; no in situ local complications were found in 62.5% of the lines. Of the 39 cases that presented with line sepsis, 23.1% showed no signs of systemic sepsis, whereas 61.5% were neutropenic and septic. In total, 190 patients had symptoms of systemic sepsis and accompanying neutropenia. Of these, 67.4% did not develop in situ line complications. Lines were removed mostly because the end of treatment had been reached (44.7%); line sepsis was noted as the reason for removal in only 16.3% of cases. Conclusion. Despite the study population having a high risk for infections because of a young age, a large proportion of haematological malignancies and surgical placement of Hickman lines, there was a low incidence of line sepsis complications. The special care taken intraoperatively and meticulous aseptic postoperative handling and maintenance are suggested as contributing to limited infective complications.
Gaucher disease: A cause of massive splenomegaly in a 15-year-old black African male
Authors:   Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa, Ramdin T , Schapkaitz E , Varughese S , Sevitz H
Published: February 2022

Patients with Gaucher disease (GD), a rare autosomal recessive lysosomal storage disease, commonly present to paediatricians with massive splenomegaly. While the diagnosis and management of patients with this chronic multisystem disorder has evolved significantly in recent years, the initial diagnosis represents a challenge. We describe the case of a 15-year-old black African male who presented with abdominal distension, delayed growth and fatigue. Initial laboratory studies revealed severe anaemia (haemoglobin concentration 8 g/dL) and moderate thrombocytopenia (platelet count 80 × 109/L). A computed tomography scan of the abdomen showed an enlarged liver of 173 mm and massive splenomegaly of 27 mm. The diagnosis of GD was confirmed by reduced beta-glucocerebrosidase activity and heterozygous mutations in the GBA1 gene. The patient was managed at a dedicated paediatric haematology unit with enzyme replacement therapy and regular clinical, biochemical and radiological monitoring.
« Racisme, sexisme, homophobie, quelle carte tu veux ? » L’expérience post-migratoire des personnes LGBTQ du Nord global et du Sud global
Authors: de Sousa Barbara Andrade , Chamberland Line
Published: February 2022

Cet article examine l’histoire de vie de sept immigrants ou immigrantes LGBTQ, originaires du Nord et du Sud global, qui habitent à Montréal. Les recherches sur l’immigration ont longtemps été réalisées selon un cadrage hétéronormatif, ce qui met à l’écart toute une série de questions relatives à l’impact de l’orientation sexuelle et de l’identité de genre non normative sur l’expérience migratoire. Les sociétés imposent des contraintes distinctes vis-à-vis des personnes LGBTQ. Une fois installées dans la société d’accueil, ces sujets peuvent expérimenter plus de possibilités sur le plan sexuel ; néanmoins leur origine peut devenir un marqueur qui les place à l’intérieur d’un rapport de pouvoir avec le groupe majoritaire. Notre article vise à mettre en lumière la manière dont les immigrants LGBTQ construisent leurs histoires de vie dans un contexte où leur vécu est traversé par l’imbrication de plusieurs aspects identitaires comme l’orientation sexuelle, l’identité de genre, l’ethnicité et la religion, pour n’en nommer que quelques-uns. L’approche intersectionnelle rend possible l’identification des systèmes de pouvoirs contraignants auxquels les participants font face quotidiennement. L’analyse thématique nous a permis d’être à l’écoute des individus afin de connaître les catégories de pouvoir et les systèmes d’oppression dont ils parlent — le but étant de positionner les répondants comme des sujets connaissants, et non de simples objets d’étude. L’analyse des entrevues montre que les individus LGBTQ qui expriment une combinaison variée d’identités affrontent des défis spécifiques liés au parcours migratoire.
Inclure les personnes concernées dans la production du savoir sur les personnes LGBTQ+
migrantes à travers la recherche communautaire : limites structurelles, défis
méthodologiques et pistes de réflexion
Authors: Fuentes-Bernal Javier , Hamila Ahmed , Hayadi Iyan , Tiedjou Joseph Achille , Gerembaya Mike , Siino Amanda , O’Neill Brian , Lee Edward Ou Jin
Published: February 2022

Bien qu’il y ait un intérêt grandissant dans la recherche en sciences sociales sur
la réalité des personnes migrantes marginalisées, telle que celles appartenant à la
population LGBTQ+, on dispose de très peu d’études dans la littérature québécoise sur les
meilleures stratégies d’implication des personnes concernées dans la construction des
savoirs. Cet article vise à contribuer à la diffusion de la connaissance empirique et
autoréflexive sur l’inclusion des personnes LGBTQ+ migrantes dans les espaces de
délibération et de co-construction des savoirs. Pour ce faire, plusieurs pistes sont
proposées pour dépasser les limites systémiques ainsi que résoudre les défis méthodologiques
et éthiques liés à l’inclusion des personnes LGBTQ+ migrantes au sein des espaces de
réflexion et de construction des connaissances autour des enjeux qui les concernent
directement. D’un point de vue empirique, notre démarche s’appuie sur l’autoreflexivité de
différents acteurs et actrices concernés (membres soutenus, membres du conseil
d’administration, membres de l’équipe de soutien et employés) dans une recherche
communautaire menée en collaboration avec l’organisme communautaire AGIR (Action LGBTQ avec
les immigrant.e.s et les réfugié.e.s).
Functional visualization of NK cell-mediated killing of metastatic single tumor cells
Authors: Ichise Hiroshi , Tsukamoto Shoko , Hirashima Tsuyoshi , Konishi Yoshinobu , Oki Choji , Tsukiji Shinya , Iwano Satoshi , Miyawaki Atsushi , Sumiyama Kenta , Terai Kenta , Matsuda Michiyuki
Published: February 2022

Natural killer (NK) cells lyse invading tumor cells to limit metastatic growth in the lung, but how some cancers evade this host protective mechanism to establish a growing lesion is unknown. Here, we have combined ultra-sensitive bioluminescence imaging with intravital two-photon microscopy involving genetically encoded biosensors to examine this question. NK cells eliminated disseminated tumor cells from the lung within 24 hr of arrival, but not thereafter. Intravital dynamic imaging revealed that 50% of NK-tumor cell encounters lead to tumor cell death in the first 4 hr after tumor cell arrival, but after 24 hr of arrival, nearly 100% of the interactions result in the survival of the tumor cell. During this 24-hr period, the probability of ERK activation in NK cells upon encountering the tumor cells was decreased from 68% to 8%, which correlated with the loss of the activating ligand CD155/PVR/Necl5 from the tumor cell surface. Thus, by quantitatively visualizing, the NK-tumor cell interaction at the early stage of metastasis, we have revealed the crucial parameters of NK cell immune surveillance in the lung.
Overexpression of the LcCUC2-like gene in Arabidopsis thaliana alters the cotyledon morphology and increases rosette leaf number
Authors: Wen Shaoying , Li Jiayu , Hao Ziyuan , Wei Lingmin , Ma Jikai , Zong Yaxian , Li Huogen
Published: February 2022

Background

The unique ‘mandarin jacket’ leaf shape is the most famous trait of Liriodendron chinense and this characteristic gives L. chinense aesthetic and landscaping value. However, the underlying regulatory mechanism of genes involved in the leaf development of L. chinense has remained unclear.

Methods

Based on transcriptome data of leaves at different developmental stages from L. chinense, we identified differentially expression genes (DEGs) functioning in leaf development. A candidate gene named LcCUC2-like (LcCUC2L) had high similarity in sequence with Arabidopsis thaliana CUC2, and used for further research. We isolated the full-length LcCUC2L gene and its promoter from L. chinense. Subsequently, we analyzed the function of the LcCUC2L gene and its promoter activity via transformation into A. thaliana.

Results

In this study, we found that the LcCUC2L and AtCUC2 are homologous in sequence but not homologous in function. Unlike the role of AtCUC2 in leaf serration and SAM formation, the LcCUC2L mainly regulates cotyledon development and rosette leaf number. Histochemical β-glucuronidase (GUS) staining revealed that LcCUC2L was expressed in the cotyledons of A. thaliana seedlings, indicating that the LcCUC2L may play a role in cotyledon development. Ectopic expression of LcCUC2L resulted in long, narrow cotyledons without petioles, abnormal lamina epidermis cells and defective vascular tissue in cotyledons, and these results were consistent with the LcCUC2L expression pattern. Further analysis showed that overexpression of LcCUC2L also induced numerous rosette leaves. Also, LcCUC2L and other related genes showed a severe response in L. chinense by introducing exogenous auxin stimulation, partly revealed that LcCUC2L affects the leaf development by regulating the auxin content.

Conclusions

These results suggest that LcCUC2L may play a critical role in leaf development and morphogenesis in L. chinense, and our findings provide insight into the molecular mechanisms of leaf development in L. chinense.
Preferensi Anak Tentang Gaya Narasi dalam Merancang Animasi Edukasi pada Kegiatan Ekowisata
Authors: Lionardi Angelia
Published: February 2022

Salah satu prinsip ekowisata adalah mengadakan kegiatan edukasi tentang pentingnya konservasi biota dan ekosistem pendukungnya kepada para wisatawan. Namun, terbatasnya kemampuan masyarakat lokal sebagai pelaku ekowisata dalam melakukan edukasi kepada pengunjung terutama kepada anak-anak membuat kegiatan edukasi sulit dilakukan. Untuk mengatasi hal tersebut, seorang fasilitator atau pengajar di ekowisata memerlukan media edukasi untuk menyampaikan materi secara persuasif. Anak-anak masa kini merupakan para generasi internet yang terbiasa menggunakan media digital. Salah satu media digital yang berpotensi menjadi media edukasi adalah animasi 2D. Animasi 2D dipilih karena mampu mengakomodasi sifat psikologis anak yang penuh imajinasi dengan menggunakan narasi visual. Pendekatan yang dapat digunakan dalam menulis konten animasi adalah pendekatan naratif atau bercerita. Pendekatan narasi dapat menciptakan hubungan emosional antara audiens dengan obyek yang dilindungi dalam ekowisata. Terdapat dua teknik atau gaya dalam menarasikan konten di dalam ekowisata yaitu menggunakan pendekatan narasi ekspositorik dan narasi sugestif. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengidentifikasi jenis narasi mana yang lebih disukai oleh anak-anak. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah metode kuantitatif. Data penelitian dikumpulkan melalui pembagian kuisioner kepada 118 orang siswa sekolah dasar di Indonesia. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa anak-anak lebih menyukai narasi sugestif (68%) daripada narasi ekspositorik.
High Performance Space Lubrication of MoS2 with Tantalum
Authors: Serles Peter , Nicholson Eric , Tam Jason , Barri Nima , Chemin Jean‐Baptiste , Wang Guorui , Michel Yann , Singh Chandra Veer , Choquet Patrick , Saulot Aurélien , Filleter Tobin , Colas Guillaume
Published: February 2022

Molybdenum disulfide coatings have been employed as lubricants for spacecraft since the 1950s but continue to face major engineering challenges including performance in both terrestrial air and deep space vacuum environments and service lifetimes on the order of decades without maintenance. Co‐deposition of MoS2 with additive compounds provide enhancements in some circumstances but a lubricant which can perform in all space‐facing environments with long lifetimes remains an ongoing problem. Herein, it is demonstrated the multi‐environment adaptable performance of a novel MoS2 + tantalum lubricant coating, which excels as a lubricant in both terrestrial and space environments while the benchmark space‐qualified commercial MoS2 lubricants do not. It is noted that the 10% tantalum additive exhibits preferential oxidation in air to preserve the lubricating ability of MoS2 while forming phases of TaS2, which aid in the exceptional lubrication of MoS2 in ultra‐high vacuum. Additionally, completely different tribofilms of small particles and compact sheets are noted for air and vacuum environments, respectively, which allows for adaptable lubricating mechanisms from a single coating depending on the environment. This novel coating sets the benchmark as the first demonstrated instance of a fully versatile space lubricant which offers high‐performance in both terrestrial and deep space environments.
Investigating Particle Size‐Dependent Redox Kinetics and Charge Distribution in Disordered Rocksalt Cathodes
Authors: Zhang Yuxin , Hu Anyang , Liu Jue , Xu Zhengrui , Mu Linqin , Sainio Sami , Nordlund Dennis , Li Luxi , Sun Cheng‐Jun , Xiao Xianghui , Liu Yijin , Lin Feng
Published: February 2022

Understanding how various redox activities evolve and distribute in disordered rocksalt oxides (DRX) can advance insights into manipulating materials properties for achieving stable, high‐energy batteries. Herein, the authors present how the reaction kinetics and spatial distribution of redox activities are governed by the particle size of DRX materials. The size‐dependent electrochemical performance is attributed to the distinct cationic and anionic reaction kinetics at different sizes, which can be tailored to achieve optimal capacity and stability. Overall, the local charged domains in DRX particles display random heterogeneity caused by the isotropic delithiation pathways. Owing to the kinetic limitation, the micron‐sized particles exhibit a holistic “core‐shell” charge distribution, whereas sub‐micron particles show more uniform redox reactions throughout the particles and ensembles. Sub‐micron DRX particles exhibit increasing anionic redox activities yet inferior cycling stability. In summary, engineering particle size can effectively modulate how cationic and anionic redox activities evolve and distribute in DRX materials.
Ru Coordinated ZnIn2S4 Triggers Local Lattice‐Strain Engineering to Endow High‐Efficiency Electrocatalyst for Advanced Zn‐Air Batteries
Authors: Hou Zhiqian , Sun Zhuang , Cui Chenghao , Zhu Deming , Yang Yanan , Zhang Tao
Published: February 2022

Developing bifunctional electrocatalysts is the primary challenge to improve the reaction efficiency of zinc‐air batteries. Lattice‐strain engineering constructs high‐efficiency oxygen redox catalysts by tuning the physicochemical properties of nanomaterials. However, the randomness and complexity of lattice mismatch make it difficult to effectively identify the structure–activity relationship between the strain and catalyst. Herein, a strategy of Ru triggered partial coordination environment mutation of ZnIn2S4 (R0.1ZIS) to regulate the d‐band center of catalytic sites is provided, which dramatically activates intrinsic activity and accelerates electron transfer. Density functional theory calculations and system characterizations reveal that local lattice strain causes anti‐bonding orbital to occupy more electrons and narrower bandwidth, reduce the migration energy barrier of *OH deprotonation and optimize the adsorption/desorption process of oxygen‐containing intermediates, thus demonstrating extraordinary catalytic performance in oxygen reduction reaction and oxygen evolution reaction. Expectedly, the R0.1ZIS‐based cell delivers the open circuit potential of 1.587 V almost identical to the theoretical voltage, and an ultralow voltage gap of 0.71 V after undergoing 262 h operation. This work offers a promising avenue for building lattice–strain engineering to realize robust bifunctional electrocatalysts.