bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantitative Morphological Analysis of Filamentous Microorganisms in Cocultures and Monocultures: Aspergillus terreus and Streptomyces rimosus Warfare in Bioreactors
Authors: Ścigaczewska Anna , Boruta Tomasz , Bizukojć Marcin
Published: November 2021

The aim of this study was to quantitatively characterize the morphology of the filamentous microorganisms Aspergillus terreus ATCC 20542 and Streptomyces rimosus ATCC 10970, cocultivated in stirred tank bioreactors, and to characterize their mutual influence with the use of quantitative image analysis. Three distinct coculture initiation strategies were applied: preculture versus preculture, spores versus spores and preculture versus preculture with time delay for one of the species. Bioreactor cocultures were accompanied by parallel monoculture controls. The results recorded for the mono- and cocultures were compared in order to investigate the effect of cocultivation on the morphological evolution of A. terreus and S. rimosus. Morphology-related observations were also confronted with the analysis of secondary metabolism. The morphology of the two studied filamentous species strictly depended on the applied coculture initiation strategy. In the cocultures initiated by the simultaneous inoculation, S. rimosus gained domination or advance over A. terreus. The latter microorganism dominated only in these experiments in which S. rimosus was introduced with a delay.
Emergence and Enhancement of Ultrasensitivity through Posttranslational Modulation of Protein Stability
Authors: Kumbale Carla M. , Voit Eberhard O. , Zhang Qiang
Published: November 2021

Signal amplification in biomolecular networks converts a linear input to a steeply sigmoid output and is central to a number of cellular functions including proliferation, differentiation, homeostasis, adaptation, and biological rhythms. One canonical signal amplifying motif is zero-order ultrasensitivity that is mediated through the posttranslational modification (PTM) cycle of signaling proteins. The functionality of this signaling motif has been examined conventionally by supposing that the total amount of the protein substrates remains constant, as by the classical Koshland–Goldbeter model. However, covalent modification of signaling proteins often results in changes in their stability, which affects the abundance of the protein substrates. Here, we use mathematical models to explore the signal amplification properties in such scenarios and report some novel aspects. Our analyses indicate that PTM-induced protein stabilization brings the enzymes closer to saturation. As a result, ultrasensitivity may emerge or is greatly enhanced, with a steeper sigmoidal response, higher magnitude, and generally longer response time. In cases where PTM destabilizes the protein, ultrasensitivity can be regained through changes in the activities of the involved enzymes or from increased protein synthesis. Importantly, ultrasensitivity is not limited to modified or unmodified protein substrates—when protein turnover is considered, the total free protein substrate can also exhibit ultrasensitivity under several conditions. When full enzymatic reactions are used instead of Michaelis–Menten kinetics for the modeling, the total free protein substrate can even exhibit nonmonotonic dose–response patterns. It is conceivable that cells use inducible protein stabilization as a strategy in the signaling network to boost signal amplification while saving energy by keeping the protein substrate levels low at basal conditions.
Accuracy of the Electronic Nose Breath Tests in Clinical Application: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Yang Hsiao-Yu , Chen Wan-Chin , Tsai Rodger-Chen
Published: November 2021

(1) Background: An electronic nose applies a sensor array to detect volatile biomarkers in exhaled breath to diagnose diseases. The overall diagnostic accuracy remains unknown. The objective of this review was to provide an estimate of the diagnostic accuracy of sensor-based breath tests for the diagnosis of diseases. (2) Methods: We searched the PubMed and Web of Science databases for studies published between 1 January 2010 and 14 October 2021. The search was limited to human studies published in the English language. Clinical trials were not included in this review. (3) Results: Of the 2418 records identified, 44 publications were eligible, and 5728 patients were included in the final analyses. The pooled sensitivity was 90.0% (95% CI, 86.3–92.8%, I2 = 47.7%), the specificity was 88.4% (95% CI, 87.1–89.5%, I2 = 81.4%), and the pooled area under the curve was 0.93 (95% CI 0.91–0.95). (4) Conclusion: The findings of our review suggest that a standardized report of diagnostic accuracy and a report of the accuracy in a test set are needed. Sensor array systems of electronic noses have the potential for noninvasiveness at the point-of-care in hospitals. Nevertheless, the procedure for reporting the accuracy of a diagnostic test must be standardized.
Is Aducanumab for LMICs? Promises and Challenges
Authors: Gunawardena Illangage P. C. , Retinasamy Thaarvena , Shaikh Mohd. Farooq
Published: November 2021

Aducanumab, a human monoclonal antibody, was approved in June of 2021 as the first disease-modifying treatment for Alzheimer’s disease by the United States Food and Drug Administration (U.S. FDA). A substantial proportion of patients with Alzheimer’s disease live in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), and the debilitating effects of this disease exerts burdens on patients and caregivers in addition to the significant economic strains many nations bear. While the advantages of a disease-modifying therapy are clear in delaying the progression of disease to improve patient outcomes, aducanumab’s approval by the U.S. FDA was met with controversy for a plethora of reasons. This paper will provide precursory insights into aducanumab’s role, appropriateness, and cost-effectiveness in low- and middle-income countries. We extend some of the controversies associated with aducanumab, including the contradicting evidence from the two trials (EMERGE and ENGAGE) and the resources required to deliver the treatment safely and effectively to patients, among other key considerations.
FRP Pedestrian Bridges—Analysis of Different Infill Configurations
Authors: Stepinac Lucija , Skender Ana , Damjanović Domagoj , Galić Josip
Published: November 2021

The main aim of this study is to analyze fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) bridge decks according to their material, cross-section, and shape geometry. Infill cell configurations of the decks (rectangular, triangular, trapezoidal, and honeycomb) were tested based on the FRP cell units available in the market. A comparison was made for each cell configuration in flat and curved bridge shapes. Another comparison was made between the material properties. Each model was computed for a composite layup material and a quasi-isotropic material. The quasi-isotropic material represents chopped fibers within a matrix. FE (finite element) analysis was performed on a total of 24 models using Abaqus software. The results show that the bridge shape geometry and infill configuration play an important role in increasing the stiffness, more so than improving the material properties. The arch shape of the bridge deck with quasi-isotropic material and chopped fibers was compared to the cross-ply laminate material in a flat bridge deck. The results show that the arch shape of the bridge deck contributed to the overall stiffness by reducing the deformation by an average of 30–40%. The results of this preliminary study will provide a basis for future research into form finding and laboratory testing.
Unlocking Household Electricity Consumption in Pakistan
Authors: Amber Khuram , Ahmad Rizwan , Farmanbar Mina , Bashir Muhammad , Mehmood Sajid , Khan Muhammad , Saeed Muhammad
Published: November 2021

In Pakistan, data for household electricity consumption are available in the form of monthly electricity bills only, and, therefore, are not helpful in establishing appliance-wise consumption. Further, it does not help in establishing the relationship among the household electricity consumption and various driving factors. This study aimed to unlock the household electricity consumption in Pakistan by analyzing electricity bills and investigating the impact of various socioeconomic, demographic, and dwelling parameters and usage of different appliances. The methodology adopted in this study was survey-based data collection of the residential sector. For this purpose, data were collected from 523 dwellings through surveys and interviews in Mirpur city. The results of the data analysis revealed that the average household electricity consumption is 2469 kWh/year with an average family size of seven and an average floor area of 78.91 m2. Based on possession of various appliances, the households were categorized into four types and their consumption patterns were established and compared. Air Conditioned (AC) houses consume 44% more electricity compared to the non-AC houses, whereas an Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS) consumes electricity equivalent to an AC. The research findings are useful for policy makers and building designers and are discussed in the conclusion section.
Long-Term Outcomes after Neonatal Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy in the Era of Therapeutic Hypothermia: A Longitudinal, Prospective, Multicenter Case-Control Study in Children without Overt Brain Damage
Authors: Cainelli Elisa , Vedovelli Luca , Mastretta Emmanuele , Gregori Dario , Suppiej Agnese , Bisiacchi Patrizia Silvia
Published: November 2021

Background. Data on long-term outcomes in the era before therapeutic hypothermia (TH) showed a higher incidence of cognitive problems. Since the introduction of TH, data on its results are limited. Methods. Our sample population consisted of 40 children with a history of hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) treated with TH, with an average age of 6.25 years (range 5.5, 7.33), 24 (60%) males; and 33 peers with an average age of 8.8 years (6.08, 9.41), 17 (51%) males. Long-term follow-up data belong to two centers in Padova and Torino. We measured general intelligence (WPPSI-III or WISC-IV) and neuropsychological functioning (language, attention, memory, executive functions, social skills, visual motor abilities). We also administered questionnaires to their parents on the children’s psychopathological profiles and parental stress. Results. We found differences between groups in several cognitive and neuropsychological domains: intelligence, visuomotor skills, executive functions, and attention. Interestingly, IQ test results effectively differentiated between the groups (HIE vs. controls). Furthermore, the incidence of psychopathology appears to be significantly higher in children with HIE (35%) than in control peers (12%). Conclusions. Our study supports previous findings on a higher incidence of neuropsychological, cognitive, and psychopathological sequelae after HIE treated with TH. As hypothesized, TH does not appear to ameliorate the outcome after neonatal HIE in those children who survive without major sequelae.
Solution-Processed All-Solid-State Electrochromic Devices Based on SnO2/NiO doped with Tin
Authors: Kim Gieun , Hong Songeun , Yoo Suho , Park Jongwoon
Published: November 2021

We investigated the photochromic (PC) and electrochromic (EC) properties of tin-doped nickel oxide (NiO) thin films for solution-processable all-solid-state EC devices. The PC effect is shown to be enhanced by the addition of Sn into the precursor NiO solution. We fabricated an EC device with six layers—ITO/TiO2 (counter electrode)/SnO2 (ion-conducting layer)/SiO2 (barrier)/NiO doped with tin (EC layer)/ITO—by a hybrid fabrication process (sputtering for ITO and TiO2, sol–gel spin coating for SnO2 and NiO). The EC effect was also observed to be improved with the Sn-doped NiO layer. It was demonstrated that UV/O3 treatment is one of the critical processes that determine the EC performance of the hydroxide ion-based device. UV/O3 treatment generates hydroxide ions, induces phase separation from a single mixture of SnO2 and silicone oil, and improves the surface morphology of the films, thereby boosting the performance of EC devices. EC performance can be enhanced further by optimizing the thickness of TiO2 and SiO2 layers. Specifically, the SiO2 barrier blocks the transport of charges, bringing in an increase in anodic coloration. We achieved the transmittance modulation of 38.3% and the coloration efficiency of 39.7 cm2/C. We also evaluated the heat resistance of the all-solid-state EC device and found that the transmittance modulation was decreased by 36% from its initial value at 100 °C. Furthermore, we demonstrated that a large-area EC device can be fabricated using slot-die coating without much compromise on EC performance.
The Crystal Structure of Nα-p-tosyl-lysyl Chloromethylketone-Bound Oligopeptidase B from Serratia Proteamaculans Revealed a New Type of Inhibitor Binding
Authors: Timofeev Vladimir , Petrenko Dmitry , Agapova Yulia , Vlaskina Anna , Karlinsky David , Mikhailova Anna , Kuranova Inna , Rakitina Tatiana
Published: November 2021

A covalent serine protease inhibitor—Na-p-Tosyl-Lysyl Chloromethylketone (TCK) is a modified lysine residue tosylated at the N-terminus and chloromethylated at the C-terminus, one molecule of which is capable of forming two covalent bonds with both Ser and His catalytic residues, was co-crystallized with modified oligopeptidase B (OpB) from Serratia proteomaculans (PSPmod). The kinetics study, which preceded crystallization, shows that the stoichiometry of TCK-dependent inhibition of PSPmod was 1:2 (protein:inhibitor). The crystal structure of the PSPmod-TCK complex, solved at a resolution of 2.3 Å, confirmed a new type of inhibitor binding. Two TCK molecules were bound to one enzyme molecule: one with the catalytic Ser, the other with the catalytic His. Due to this mode of binding, the intermediate state of PSPmod and the disturbed conformation of the catalytic triad were preserved in the PSPmod-TCK complex. Nevertheless, the analysis of the amino acid surroundings of the inhibitor molecule bound to the catalytic Ser and its comparison with that of antipain-bound OpB from Trypanosoma brucei provided an insight in the structure of the PSPmod substrate-binding pocket. Supposedly, the new type of binding is typical for the interaction of chloromethylketone derivatives with two-domain OpBs. In the open conformational state that these enzymes are assumed in solution, the disordered configuration of the catalytic triad prevents simultaneous interaction of one inhibitor molecule with two catalytic residues.
Axial Behavior of Concrete-Filled Double-Skin Tubular Stub Columns Incorporating PVC Pipes
Authors: Javed Muhammmad Faisal , Rafiq Haris , Khan Mohsin Ali , Aslam Fahid , Musarat Muhammad Ali , Vatin Nikolai Ivanovich
Published: November 2021

This experimental study presents concrete-filled double-skin tubular columns and demonstrates their expected advantages. These columns consist of an outer steel tube, an inner steel tube, and concrete sandwiched between two tubes. The influence of the outer-to-inner tube dimension ratio, outer tube to thickness ratio, and type of inner tube material (steel, PVC pipe) on the ultimate axial capacity of concrete-filled double-skin tubular columns is studied. It is found that the yield strength of the inner tube does not significantly affect the ultimate axial capacity of concrete-filled double-skin tubular composites. With the replacement of the inner tube of steel with a PVC pipe, on average, less than 10% strength is reduced, irrespective of size and dimensions of the steel tube. Hence, the cost of a project can be reduced by replacing inner steel tubes with a PVC pipes. Finally, the experimental results are compared with the existing design methods presented in AISC 360-16 (2016), GB51367 (2019), and EC4 (2004). It is found from the comparison that GB51367 (2019) gives better results, followed by AISC (2016) and EC4 (2004).
Resectable and Borderline Resectable Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: Role of the Radiologist and Oncologist in the Era of Precision Medicine
Authors: Vernuccio Federica , Messina Carlo , Merz Valeria , Cannella Roberto , Midiri Massimo
Published: November 2021

The incidence and mortality of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma are growing over time. The management of patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma involves a multidisciplinary team, ideally involving experts from surgery, diagnostic imaging, interventional endoscopy, medical oncology, radiation oncology, pathology, geriatric medicine, and palliative care. An adequate staging of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and re-assessment of the tumor after neoadjuvant therapy allows the multidisciplinary team to choose the most appropriate treatment for the patient. This review article discusses advancement in the molecular basis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, diagnostic tools available for staging and tumor response assessment, and management of resectable or borderline resectable pancreatic cancer.
Improving Readability of Online Privacy Policies through DOOP: A Domain Ontology for Online Privacy
Authors: Audich Dhiren A. , Dara Rozita , Nonnecke Blair
Published: November 2021

Privacy policies play an important part in informing users about their privacy concerns by operating as memorandums of understanding (MOUs) between them and online services providers. Research suggests that these policies are infrequently read because they are often lengthy, written in jargon, and incomplete, making them difficult for most users to understand. Users are more likely to read short excerpts of privacy policies if they pertain directly to their concern. In this paper, a novel approach and a proof-of-concept tool are proposed that reduces the amount of privacy policy text a user has to read. It does so using a domain ontology and natural language processing (NLP) to identify key areas of the policies that users should read to address their concerns and take appropriate action. Using the ontology to locate key parts of privacy policies, average reading times were substantially reduced from 29–32 min to 45 s.
Performance of a Noninvasive Magnetic Sensor-Based Current Measurement System in Power Systems
Authors: Shrawane Prasad , Sidhu Tarlochan S.
Published: November 2021

A large increase in distributed generation integrated within power system networks has resulted in power quality challenges and in the need to resolve complex system faults. The monitoring of the real-time state of the power parameters of the transmission and distribution grid helps to control the stability and reliability of the grid. In such a scenario, having current monitoring equipment that is flexible and easy to install can always be of great help to reduce the price of energy monitoring and to increase the dependability of a smart grid. Advances in magnetic sensor research offer measurement system accuracy that is less complex to install and that can be obtained at a lower less cost. Tunneling magnetoresistive (TMR) sensors can be used to measure the AC current by sensing the magnetic field that is generated by the current-carrying conductor in a contactless manner. This paper illustrates the results of a thorough investigation of factors that can influence the performance of the TMR sensors that are used for the current phasor measurements of a single-phase AC current application, such as the effects of distance, harmonics, and conductor insulation.
Exploiting Solar Energy during an Aerial Mapping Mission on a Lightweight UAV
Authors: Hrovatin Dejan , Žemva Andrej
Published: November 2021

In this study, we present options for extending the endurance of a lightweight unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), along with their advantages and disadvantages. We present a developed solution based on the use of gallium–arsenide (GaAs) solar modules installed on a UAV and connected to a custom-made maximum power point tracker (MPPT) with an integrated perturb and observe (P&O) algorithm. The mathematical behavior required to calculate the electrical energy production from solar energy on the UAV from known UAV angles of rotation, the position of the sun in the sky, solar irradiance measurements, the solar module area and the solar modules efficiency is presented. A comparison of the calculated and actual measured electrical energy production results during an aerial mapping mission is presented. We perform a number of aerial mapping mission flights and the experimental results confirm an energy efficiency value of more than 96.27% for the MPPT and extended flight endurance by up to 21.25%. In addition, onboard measurements and other data captured during flights confirm the proposed electrical energy production calculation.
First-Principles Study of Pt-Based Bifunctional Oxygen Evolution & Reduction Electrocatalyst: Interplay of Strain and Ligand Effects
Authors: Kim Seung-hoon , Kang Yoonmook , Ham Hyung Chul
Published: November 2021

We examined the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) of Pt-based Pt3M/Pt nanoalloy catalysts (where M represents a 3d transition metal) for bifunctional electrocatalysts using spin-polarized density functional theory calculations. First, the stability of the Pt3M/Pt catalyst was investigated by calculating the bulk formation energy and surface separation energy. Using the calculated adsorption energies for the OER/ORR intermediates in the modeled catalysts, we predicted the OER/ORR overpotentials and potential limiting steps for each catalyst. The origins of the enhanced catalytic reactivity in Pt3M/Pt catalysts caused by strain and ligand effects are explained separately. In addition, compared to Pt(111), the OER and ORR activities in a Pt3Ni/Ptskin catalyst with a Pt skin layer were increased by 13.7% and 18.4%, respectively, due to the strain and ligand effects. It was confirmed that compressive strain and ligand effects are key factors in improving the catalytic performance of OER/ORR bifunctional catalysts.
Seismic Behavior of Steel-Fiber-Reinforced High-Strength Concrete Shear Wall with CFST Columns: Experimental Investigation
Authors: Shi Ke , Zhang Mengyue , Li Pengfei , Xue Ru , You Peibo , Zhang Tao , Cui Baoyu
Published: November 2021

To improve the seismic behavior of shear walls, a new composite shear wall composed of a steel-fiber-reinforced high-strength concrete (SFRHC) web and two square concrete-filled steel tube (CFST) columns, namely a steel-fiber-reinforced concrete shear wall with CFST columns, is proposed in this paper. Therefore, the main purpose of this paper is to present an experimental investigation of the seismic behavior of the SFRHC shear wall with CFST columns. Pseudo-static tests were carried out on seven composite shear walls, and the seismic performance of the shear walls was studied and quantified in terms of the aspects of energy consumption, ductility and stiffness degradation. Furthermore, the experimental results indicated that adding steel fiber can effectively restrain the crack propagation of composite shear walls and further help to improve the ductility and energy dissipation capacity of composite shear walls and delay the degradation of their lateral stiffness and force. Moreover, the seismic behavior of the SFRHC shear wall with CFST columns was obviously superior to that of the conventionally reinforced shear wall, in terms of load-bearing capacity, ductility, stiffness and energy dissipation capacity, because of the confinement effect of the CFST columns on the web. Finally, the preliminary study demonstrated that the composite shear wall has good potential to be used in regions with high seismic risk.
The Use of Electronic Nose as Alternative Non-Destructive Technique to Discriminate Flavored and Unflavored Olive Oils
Authors: Rodrigues Nuno , Silva Kevin , Veloso Ana C. A. , Pereira José Alberto , Peres António M.
Published: November 2021

Cv. Arbequina extra virgin olive oils (EVOO) were flavored with cinnamon, garlic, and rosemary and characterized. Although flavoring significantly affected the physicochemical quality parameters, all oils fulfilled the legal thresholds for EVOO classification. Flavoring increased (20 to 40%) the total phenolic contents, whereas oxidative stability was dependent on the flavoring agent (a slight increase for rosemary and a decrease for cinnamon and garlic). Flavoring also had a significant impact on the sensory profiles. Unflavored oils, cinnamon, and garlic flavored oils had a fruity-ripe sensation while rosemary flavored oils were fruity-green oils. Fruit-related sensations, perceived in unflavored oils, disappeared with flavoring. Flavoring decreased the sweetness, enhanced the bitterness, and did not influence the pungency of the oils. According to the EU regulations, flavored oils cannot be commercialized as EVOO. Thus, to guarantee the legal labelling requirement and to meet the expectations of the market-specific consumers for differentiated olive oils, a lab-made electronic nose was applied. The device successfully discriminated unflavored from flavored oils and identified the type of flavoring agent (90 ± 10% of correct classifications for the repeated K-fold cross-validation method). Thus, the electronic nose could be used as a practical non-destructive preliminary classification tool for recognizing olive oils’ flavoring practice.
Cooking African Pumpkin Leaves (Momordica balsamina L.) by Stir-Frying Improved Bioactivity and Bioaccessibility of Metabolites—Metabolomic and Chemometric Approaches
Authors: Mashiane Petunia , Manhivi Vimbainashe E. , Shoko Tinotenda , Slabbert Retha M. , Sultanbawa Yasmina , Sivakumar Dharini
Published: November 2021

The leaves of African pumpkins (Momordica balsamina L.) are a commonly consumed traditional vegetable. They are a good source of polyphenolic antioxidants and carotenoids, which are, however, affected by cooking or digestion. We investigated the effect of household cooking methods (stir-frying or boiling) on the changes in bioactive metabolites, antioxidant capacity, release and accessibility of β-carotene and also inhibition of inhibitory activity against α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes during in vitro digestion of African pumpkin leaves compared to the raw leaves. Compared to boiled or raw leaves, stir-frying improved the availability of bioactive metabolites at the gastrointestinal phase. Quercetin 3-galactoside and rhamnetin 3-O-glucoside (marker compounds) discriminated the stir-fried leaves from raw leaves and boiled leaves after digestion. Stir-frying improved the release and accessibility of β-carotene and enhanced the antioxidant activities compared to boiling. Dialysable fractions of stir-fried leaves exhibited the greatest inhibitory activity against α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes compared to the raw and boiled leaves, as well as acarbose. Stir-frying, therefore, is recommended for use in household cooking to benefit consumers by increasing the intake of phenolics and β-carotene.
Perceived Usefulness of Telerehabilitation of Musculoskeletal Disorders: A Belgium–France Pilot Study during Second Wave of COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Dierick Frédéric , Pierre Amélie , Profeta Loredana , Telliez Frédéric , Buisseret Fabien
Published: November 2021

Background: COVID-19 has affected the practice of physiotherapy, and telerehabilitation (TR) may be seen as an alternative model of care if it is accepted by patients and physiotherapists. This study investigates the perceived usefulness of TR and the intention to use it among physiotherapists and patients from Belgium and France concerned with musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) during the pandemic period. Methods: An online questionnaire based on the technology-acceptance model was designed. Sociodemographic data were collected and Likert scales were proposed to assess perceived ease-of-use, perceived usefulness and intention to use TR. Data were collected between 17 January and 17 March 2021; 68 patients and 107 physiotherapists answered. Results: In total, 88% of patients and 76% physiotherapists had not used TR at the time they answered. Only 12% of patients and 1% of physiotherapists are willing to use TR, and 50% of physiotherapists think they will never use TR compared to 25% of patients. A total of 98% of participants agreed that they had a good mastery of the technological tools requested. Conclusions: Physiotherapists are more reluctant to use TR than patients, regardless of convincing EBM results. This is related to their own representation of proper MSD management, which must include the use of hands-on techniques.
Social Support, Self-Care Behaviour and Self-Efficacy in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Paulsamy Premalatha , Ashraf Rizwan , Alshahrani Shadia Hamoud , Periannan Kalaiselvi , Qureshi Absar Ahmed , Venkatesan Krishnaraju , Manoharan Vani , Govindasamy Natarajan , Prabahar Kousalya , Arumugam Tamilselvi , Venkatesan Kumar , Chidambaram Kumarappan , Kandasamy Geetha , Vasudevan Rajalakshimi , Krishnaraju Kalpana
Published: November 2021

Diabetes mellitus is a major public health issue that considerably impacts mortality, morbidity, and healthcare costs worldwide. The COVID-19 pandemic has created havoc in diabetes management, too, like other spectrums of life. A descriptive, cross-sectional study was adopted to determine the effect of Social Support, Self-Care Behaviour and Self-Efficacy in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2D) during this COVID-19 pandemic. Two hundred T2D patients who satisfied the inclusion criteria were chosen using a convenient sampling procedure. The tool consists of four sections, including socio-demographic characteristics, Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), revised Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities (SDSCA) Scale and modified Diabetes Management Self-Efficacy Scale (DMS). Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the obtained data. The mean and SD of diabetic management self-efficacy is 5.74 (1.95) and 4.37 (1.4), respectively, for patients with HbA1c < 6.5% and HbA1c ≥ 6.5%. The self-care activities of the patients who had good glycemic control were 4.31 (2.06) compared to 3.50 (1.73) who did not. The social support received by the patients was 6.13 (2.13) vs. 5.31 (1.67) among patients with glycemic control vs. no control. The results show that social support (p = 0.04), self-efficacy (p =0.01) and self-care activities (p = 0.001) were significantly related to the level of glycemic control of the T2D patients. A significant relationship was also identified between gender (p = 0.036), age (p = 0.001) and education status (p = 0.000) with HbA1c control of the participants. This study demonstrates a significant relationship between social support, self-care behaviours, self-efficacy and glycemic management in T2D patients. During this COVID-19 pandemic, interventions to enhance the self-care activities like exercise and social support to boost their self-efficacy; for better diabetes management, reducing diabetes complications or prolonging their onset are the need of the hour.
Lessons of Centralized Procurement of Domestic Office and Antivirus Software in 2019–2020 Years
Authors:   Analytical Center for the Government of the Russian Federation, Tikhomirov Pavel A.
Published: November 2021

The article shows effects assessment of procurement process centralisation and centralized purchasing; describes case of centralized procurement of domestic office and antivirus software for federal government bodies; explain advantages and disadvantages; forms recommendations for future centralized procurement.
Fractal Design Boosts Extrusion-Based 3D Printing of Bone-Mimicking Radial-Gradient Scaffolds
Authors: Qu Huawei , Han Zhenyu , Chen Zhigang , Tang Lan , Gao Chongjian , Liu Kaizheng , Pan Haobo , Fu Hongya , Ruan Changshun
Published: November 2021

Although extrusion-based three-dimensional (EB-3D) printing technique has been widely used in the complex fabrication of bone tissue-engineered scaffolds, a natural bone-like radial-gradient scaffold by this processing method is of huge challenge and still unmet. Inspired by a typical fractal structure of Koch snowflake, for the first time, a fractal-like porous scaffold with a controllable hierarchical gradient in the radial direction is presented via fractal design and then implemented by EB-3D printing. This radial-gradient structure successfully mimics the radially gradual decrease in porosity of natural bone from cancellous bone to cortical bone. First, we create a design-to-fabrication workflow with embedding the graded data on basis of fractal design into digital processing to instruct the extrusion process of fractal-like scaffolds. Further, by a combination of suitable extruded inks, a series of bone-mimicking scaffolds with a 3-iteration fractal-like structure are fabricated to demonstrate their superiority, including radial porosity, mechanical property, and permeability. This study showcases a robust strategy to overcome the limitations of conventional EB-3D printers for the design and fabrication of functionally graded scaffolds, showing great potential in bone tissue engineering.
Who is responsible for protecting my health during the COVID- 19 pandemic?
Authors: Kallmeyer Karlien , Ambele Melvin A , Durandt Chrisna , Ford Graeme , Grobbelaar Simone , Pitere Reabetswe , Pepper Michael
Published: November 2021

Since the report of the first COVID-19 infected person in South Africa, COVID-19 moved from being a distant threat to a new reality overnight. Metaphorically, COVID-19 could be described as rain, and in order to be protected one would need to stand under an umbrella. The fundamental question that stems from this is who is holding this protective umbrella? Is the government holding the umbrella or are we holding the umbrella? In this article/commentary/perspective, we briefly discuss the responsibility of the South African government and the individual during this global pandemic, the reasoning behind the implementation of lockdown and the consequences thereof. We conclude that both government and citizens need to cooperatively take responsibility and work together to fight COVID-19. The protective umbrella needs to be held by both government and by ourselves.
¿Feminismo transexcluyente? Breves apuntes en torno al `` sexo´´.
Authors: Fernández Chagoya Melissa
Published: November 2021

En los últimos años la mediatización de la agenda feminista ha cobrado una fuerza insospechada y un tema efervescente y afortunadamente no concluyente resulta ser el lugar que ocupan las personas trans en los feminismos. Dicho de otra manera, parece que la pregunta (y batalla) que se pretende responder (y ganar) es la siguiente: ¿a quién le pertenece el feminismo? O bien ¿quién puede ser feminista?. Este texto busca retomar las nociones que las feministas materialistas ofrecen sobre `sexo´, se trata de responder por qué prefieren llamar al género `diferencia sexual´ y, finalmente, retomar la discusión sobre la materialización del sexo en las experiencias corporalizadas. Es un esfuerzo por dotar de entendimiento y nutrir los debates que hoy en día se agotan en sí mismos, y en su propia retórica.
A las vueltas con el enemigo principal:
Authors: Estermann Victoria , Bolla Luisina
Published: November 2021

El objetivo de este artículo es revisitar la propuesta de Christine Delphy desde una mirada situada y actual. En primer lugar, analizamos su concepción del sistema patriarcal en términos de modo de producción doméstico y la ubicamos en el contexto de los debates entre teorías unitarias y sistemas duales, que han sido objeto de un renovado interés en el último tiempo. Nuestro objetivo es evaluar los aportes del enfoque delphiano y también precisar su especificidad en relación con las teorías feministas marxistas que actualmente gozan de mayor difusión en nuestro medio y a las que, no obstante, se suele asimilar el enfoque feminista materialista. A continuación, mostramos que la idea de un “enemigo principal” se complejiza en la medida en que se considera la existencia de otras relaciones sociales estructurales, acorde el recorrido de la socióloga Danièle Kergoat y de la propia Delphy en su producción más reciente. Estos desarrollos permiten esbozar una aproximación entre las perspectivas materialistas francesas y algunas teorías latinoamericanas contemporáneas.
UPAYA PENCEGAHAN KEBOCORAN DATA KONSUMEN MELALUI PENGESAHAN RUU PERLINDUNGAN DATA PRIBADI (STUDI KASUS E-COMMERCE BHINNEKA.COM)
Authors: Firmansyah Putri Deanne Destriani , Fahrozi Muhammad Helmi
Published: November 2021

ABSTRAKKemajuan teknologi yang diiringi perkembangan internet kini kian pesat. Di era globalisasi seperti ini kita semakin dipermudah semenjak kemuncul internet. Seperti belanja, kita dapat membeli kebutuhan sehari-hari melalui aplikasi belanja online lewat beberapa e-commerce. Pelanggan e-commerce di Indonesia tercatat mengalami peningkatan sebesar 38,3% setelah terjadi pandemi, hal ini justru membuat tingkat keamanan internet semakin rentan karena banyak pendaftar baru yang mendaftarkan data pribadinya ke dalam data pelanggan e-commerce. Maka tak banyak terjadi kasus kebocoran data seperti yang terjadi pada e-commerce Bhinneka.com. Oleh karena itu tentu kita masih dihadapi persoalan mengenai bagaimana pencegahan kebocoran data dan apa upaya penindakan untuk pelaku kebocoran data serta bagaimana tanggung jawab dari e-commerce tersebut, maka perlu adanya pengesahan RUU Perlindungan Data Pribadi yang mana telah dibentuk oleh pemerintah dari lama, RUU ini apabila disahkan dapat menjadi jawaban dari persoalan kebocoran data. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah yuridis-normatif dengan pendekatan perundang-undangan dan pendekatan kasus. Dalam penelitian ini akan menjabarkan betapa pentingnya RUU Perlindungan Data Pribadi untuk segera disahkan untuk menutut pelaku dan menuntut pertanggungjawaban pemilik e-commerce itu sendiri, tentunya masyrakat akan mendapatkan kepastian hukum untuk menangani masalah kebocoran data.Kata Kunci: E-commerce; Kebocoran Data; Pandemi COVID-19; Perlindungan Data Pribadi.ABSTRACTThe progression of the technology which accompanied by development of the internet are growing rapidly. In this era of globalization, we’ve made it easier by the since emerged of the internet. Like shopping, we can buy our needs by online shopping application through some e-commerces. The consumers of e-commerce in Indonesia has increased until 38,3% after this pandemic happened, this thing actually makes the level of internet security more vulnerable because many registrants just register their data into the e-commerce. So many cases about data leakage, like it happened in e-commerce Bhinneka.com. Therefore, we still facing problems regarding about data leakage and how to prevent data leakage, what our behaviour regarding data leakage perpetrators and what the responsibility by the e-commerce, and then to legalization The Protection of Personal Data Bill is very important, if this bill has legalized it can answer all problems about data leakage. The research method used is normative juridical with statute approach and case approach. In this research will be explained how important to legalization The Protection of Personal Data Bill, because many important articles which can be applied to the consumers who feel disadvantaged by data leakage perpetrators and public will get legal certainty to deal with data leakage problems.Keywords: Data Leakage; E-commerce; Pandemic of COVID-1; Personal Data Protection.
PENGEMBANGAN GAME ACTION-ADVENTURE BERDASARKAN CERITA RAKYAT SULTAN SURIANSYAH BERMUATAN KEARIFAN LOKAL BANJARMASIN BERBASIS PERANGKAT BERGERAK
Authors: Syahidi Aulia Akhrian , Riyadi Ahmad , Zakiah Siti , Astuti Maya
Published: November 2021

Sultan Suriansyah was the King of Bandarmasih (the First King of Banjar) who ruled from 1520-1540 and was the first king to embrace Islam. Tourism-related to the tomb of Sultan Suriansyah is very popular among the people of Banjar. However, the folklore that tells about Sultan Suriansyah is not as popular as his tomb, many young people today don't know it, even across Indonesia it is also not well known for this folklore from South Kalimantan. The purpose of this research is to design and build a folklore game with an action-adventure genre that adapts the story of Sultan Suriansyah to preserve Banjarmasin folklore and as a means to understand grammar in the Banjar language. The research method used is the Game Development Life Cycle with stages in the form of Pre-Production, Production, Testing, and Post-Production. The results show that the game design has been produced in the form of a storyboard and then developed using Godot Engine software with the output of the (.apk) extension application that can be installed on mobile devices. Then the Playtesting and Gameflow testing was also carried out which involved 50 respondents as players with an age range of 13-15 years, the results showed that the games built and tested had met the elements and criteria with an overall average value of 4.84 and no bugs were found in the game. Tests related to player knowledge and justification for using games as a media to preserve folklore and a means to understand the Banjarese language have also been carried out with very good results.
Analysis Of The Impact Of Company Size On Systemic Risk Based On Capital Asset Pricing Model In Food And Beverages Companies Listed On The Indonesia Stock Exchange Year 2009-2011
Authors: Agusti Rahmadina
Published: November 2021

Before investing, investors should consider the stock beta as a measure of systematic risk. By knowing beta stocks investors can directly determine the sensitivity of the return securities market returns. By knowing the sensitivity return, it automatically investors would be able to assess how much risk it will face when investing their funds in the company's stock. Investors can also adjust the investment that is fit to return they want to earn. This study aim is to determine the impact of company size on systematic risk based capital asset pricing models. Population of this study are all food and beverages manufacturing companies listed (listing) on ​​the Indonesian Stock Exchange from 2009 to 2011. There are 16 companies that fit in the criteria and the sample was 12 companies. Data were analyzed by multiple linear regression analysis. Results of this study showed that the size of the company significant positive effect on the systematic risk with adjusted R square value of 0.994, which means the size of the company has a strong influence in predicting systematic risk.
The contributions of reading and phonological awareness for spelling in grade three isiXhosa learners
Authors: Daries Mikaela , Bowles Tracy Nicole , Schaefer Maxine
Published: November 2021

One factor, which is consistently highlighted in research on literacy, is the lack of understanding of how literacy develops in the Southern-Bantu languages. In particular, little is known about spelling in the Southern-Bantu languages such as isiXhosa. Through the use of an initial exploratory study and a conceptual replication study, we examined the relationships between reading, phonological awareness (PA), and spelling in isiXhosa grade 3 learners. The initial exploratory study sought to describe the relationships between reading and spelling, and PA and spelling in a sample of 49 grade 3 isiXhosa learners. We then conceptually replicated this study with a larger sample of 200 grade 3 isiXhosa learners. We expected that both reading and PA would be related to spelling and that the strength of the relationship between reading and spelling, and PA and spelling would vary with spelling ability, due to the changes that occur in the development of spelling. Cross-sectional, quantitative secondary data was used from two different projects to answer the research questions. Tasks of PA, oral reading fluency and spelling were developed and administered to the participants. We found that reading was a replicable predictor of spelling for grade 3 isiXhosa learners and that PA was influential only at the mid-range of spelling performance. Our findings emphasise the importance of the reading-writing connection, and lend support for what has been found for other consistently written languages, adding to the growing body of knowledge of universal predictors of reading and spelling development.
Warm Compress on Lowering Body Temperature Among Hyperthermia Patients: A Literature Review
Authors: Lismayanti Lilis , Abdul Malik Andika , Siti Padilah Nida , Anisa Firdaus Fidya , Setiawan Henri
Published: November 2021

Hyperthermia increased the core human body temperature above normal 36.7-37.5 °C, usually caused by infection, resulting in fever, and was the most common manifestation. One of the efforts that could be done to overcome the symptoms of hyperthermia was the application of warm compresses to the frontal, axillary, and dorsalis pedis. The study aimed to describe body temperature changes in hyperthermic patients after warm compress was applied. This study used a descriptive design with a literature review approach. Twelve articles were included in this review by six journal databases: PubMed, JSTOR, Wiley Online Library, Sage Journal, Taylor and Francis Online, and Google Scholar. The selection was carried out by assessing articles that met the inclusion criteria, including the publication range for 2008-2021, English and Indonesian languages ??, and open access to full-text pdf. The critical assessment was carried out by using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programmed instrument. The review results showed that the warm compress method had a positive effect in lowering body temperature in the nursing process in patients with hyperthermia. Based on the literature from the reviewed articles, it could be concluded that a warm compress intervention needed to be given to hyperthermic patients to lower the patient's body temperature whether they were undergoing treatment or not
Asociación entre salud mental y actitudes ante el confinamiento durante la pandemia COVID-19 en hospitales de Lima y Callao
Authors: Campos-De La Cruz Iris , Burneo-Ramírez María C. , Runzer-Colmenares Fernando M.
Published: November 2021

Objetivo: Identificar la asociación entre la depresión, ansiedad y estrés con las actitudes ante el confinamiento durante la pandemia por COVID-19 en personal de salud del Hospital Nacional Daniel Alcides Carrión y Hospital Militar Central mediante el empleo de la escala DASS-21. Materiales y métodos: Estudio transversal, observacional y analítico, participaron personal de salud que trabajó en áreas Covid durante la pandemia COVID-19. Se empleó la escala Dass-21 para medir la existencia de estados emocionales de depresión, ansiedad y estrés, y la escala de actitudes adaptada frente al confinamiento para COVID-19. Resultados: Se incluyó 124 participantes, 54% (n=67) de sexo femenino, con una mediana de edad de 34.5 años [Ri]= 16.5 que reportaron una mediana de años de experiencia de 6 (Ri = 17). La mediana del puntaje de la Escala Dass-21 para ansiedad fue de 2 (Ri= 5), la mediana del puntaje de Dass-21 para depresión fue de 1 (Ri=4.5) y la mediana del puntaje de la Escala Dass-21 para estrés fue de 4 (Ri=5).  El análisis bivariado entre los valores de los parámetros de la Escala Dass-21 y las demás covariables identificó que el grado de instrucción tenía una relación significativa con la subescala de depresión, ansiedad y estrés. Conclusión: Se encontró asociación entre los parámetros afectivos de la escala sobre actitudes ante el confinamiento y las tres subescalas de DASS-21.