bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Análisis de los sitios web de las Universidades Nacionales Interculturales Peruanas
Authors: Ríos Campos Carlos Alberto , Santamaría Baldera Nemesio , Estela Urbina Ronald Omar , García Grados Oscar Esteban , Adrianzén Olano Iván
Published: July 2020

El artículo se elaboró con el objetivo de realizar un análisis de los sitios web de las universidades nacionales interculturales peruanas, las cuales son cuatro y se hallan ubicadas en diversas regiones del Perú y cuentan con un sitio web activo. Los resultados indican que los sitios web de las cuatro universidades interculturales, ofrecen un canal de comunicación gratuito y rápido con la comunidad universitaria. Se concluyó que, el mayor nivel de errores (51) y advertencias (98) fue el sitio web de la Universidad Nacional Intercultural de la Amazonía (UNIA), mientras que el menor nivel de errores (5) y advertencias (1) fue el sitio web de la Universidad Nacional Intercultural de Quillabamba (UNIQ). El mayor puntaje y rendimiento lo tiene la Universidad Nacional Intercultural de Quillabamba (UNIQ) con 78 puntos. El mayor nivel de posicionamiento lo obtuvo la Universidad Nacional Intercultural de Quillabamba (UNIQ), con 5,9 puntos. El mayor nivel de movilidad lo obtuvo la Universidad Nacional Intercultural de la Selva Central Juan Santos Atahualpa (UNISCJSA) con 4,4 puntos. El mayor nivel de experiencia de usuario lo obtuvieron la Universidad Nacional Intercultural de la Amazonía (UNIA) y la Universidad Nacional Intercultural Fabiola Salazar Leguía de Bagua (UNIBAGUA) con 6,4 puntos. El mejor rendimiento lo tiene el sitio web de la Universidad Nacional Intercultural de Quillabamba (UNIQ) con 30 puntos. El mejor tiempo de carga lo tiene el sitio web de la Universidad Nacional Intercultural de la Selva Central Juan Santos Atahualpa (UNISCJSA) con 4.9 s.
Una perspectiva del mundo que se nos avecina
Authors: Parra Contreras Reyber
Published: July 2020

Presentación del Número 29 de la Revista de la Universidad del Zulia, donde el editor analiza algunos desafíos de la humanidad a partir de la crisis económica que se inició con la pandemia del COVID-19.
Drug delivery via α-Cyclodextrin: A Statistical-Nucleus Independent Chemical Shifts (S-NICS) study
Authors: Sadat Ghazimokri Hediyeh , Monajjemi Majid , Aghaie Hossein
Published: July 2020

This study aims to investigate a novel method by using nucleus independent chemical shifts or S-NICS method of cyclo-dextrin. Monajjemi et.al (2008 a, 2015) has exhibited this novel method which so called “S-NICS” a few years ago. This program is arranged to calculate the aromaticities in some non-benzene rings. As the asymmetry (η) and skew (κ) parameters are fluctuated in a short and are alternative in lengthy distances, the S-NICS is a certain criterion for estimating the aromaticity. By generation of pseudo-random numbers in a Monte Carlo calculation which distributed in different function, the maximum abundant of skew and asymmetry parameters have been calculated for (η∗), (κ∗), and lastly the modified isotropy (σ_iso^*) has been calculated for α-Cyclodextrin as an electromagnetic criterion. The results revealed that positive S-NICS and NICS values for α-Cyclodextrin indicate anti-aromaticity. It was observed from the values of (η∗), (κ∗) based on our calculations for α-Cyclodextrin is negatives which are depending on the distances to the center of those rings. At last, by this work it has been presented a schematic diagram of S-NICS for post-ab-initio calculations.
Literacia acadêmica em Bibliotecas Universitárias
Authors: Corrêa Elisa C.D. , García-Quismodo Miguel Ángel Marzal
Published: July 2020

Objetivo: Apresentar o conceito de literacia acadêmica e discutir as possibilidades de atuação das bibliotecas universitárias (BU) no desenvolvimento de habilidades necessárias ao sucesso da comunidade acadêmica por meio de estudo de caso do Centro de Recursos para Aprendizagem e Investigação (CRAI) da Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF) em Barcelona.Método: Estudo exploratório e descritivo de caráter qualitativo que utilizou técnicas de pesquisa bibliográfica e documental. Realizou-se análise de conteúdo em páginas web de universidades da Europa e América do Norte, cujas bibliotecas prestam serviços de Academic Skills Centre (Centro de Habilidades Acadêmicas) – ASC – espaços para orientação e tutoria aos alunos universitários com a finalidade de auxiliá-los no desenvolvimento de habilidades que os permitam tirar o máximo proveito de seu potencial acadêmico. Foram criadas categorias de serviços que serviram de parâmetro para estudo comparativo dos serviços prestados pelo CRAI UPF disponíveis em sua página web.Resultado: A análise permitiu verificar que o CRAI UPF apresenta indícios de atuação nos moldes ASC, em especial, no que se refere ao uso de tecnologias de informação e comunicação. Contudo, não foi possível afirmar que trata-se de um ambiente que privilegia o desenvolvimento de ações voltadas à literacia acadêmica, embora apresente potencial para um envolvimento dessa natureza.Conclusões: A partir deste estudo de caso acredita-se que as BU possam atuar no campo da literacia acadêmica e que, para tal, devem investir em parcerias com outros setores da universidade a fim de explorar as possibilidades de criação de produtos e serviços que visem ao desenvolvimento de habilidades para o sucesso da vida universitária. Considera-se que esta pesquisa representa um ponto de partida para muitas outras e, espera-se que os conceitos e exemplos aqui estudados possam servir de inspiração para a introdução de programas inovadores de literacia acadêmica em bibliotecas universitárias de diferentes contextos e lugares.
Dos dados ao conhecimento: tendências da produção científica sobre Big Data na Ciência da Informação no Brasil
Authors: Dos Santos-d'Amorim Karen Isabelle , Dos Reis Cruz Rúbia Wanessa , Lino da Silva Marcela , Galvão Coutinho Correia Anna Elizabeth
Published: July 2020

Objetivo: Este estudo analisa a produção científica acerca da temática do big data na Ciência da Informação no Brasil, a fim de compreender os elementos estruturais dessa produção e como o assunto é discutido no campo da CI, além de suas relações com outras áreas e subáreas do conhecimento.Método: Assume um caráter exploratório, utilizando-se o levantamento bibliográfico como método de coleta dos artigos indexados na base Brapci, entre os anos de 1972 e 2019, além da análise de conteúdo, e da bibliometria como técnica de análise.Resultado: Como resultados, evidencia-se o caráter exploratório e predominantemente teórico desses artigos em detrimento da experimentação e pesquisa de campo. As publicações distribuem-se em 25 periódicos, contudo, 67% dessa produção concentram-se em nove periódicos.Conclusões: O cenário apresentado sinaliza um espaço profícuo para as novas pesquisas da área e um posicionamento estratégico à CI, mas também, uma lacuna a ser preenchida frente a novas exigências de pesquisas que tragam algum impacto social, sendo essa, inclusive, uma das novas dimensões de avaliação dos Programas de Pós-graduação no País, anunciada recentemente pela Capes.
Formas de abasto y consumo alimentario en Santa María Tecuanulco, Texcoco, Estado de México
Authors: Chávez Arellano María Eugenia , Díaz Anguiano Amanda Yaollín
Published: July 2020

En este artículo se presentan avances de una investigación sobre cultura alimentaria en la comunidad de Santa María Tecuanulco en el municipio de Texcoco, Estado de México. El objetivo es transmitir algunas formas de abasto, preferencias y consumo alimentario que tienen los pobladores de esta comunidad. Se utilizan datos obtenidos de una encuesta aplicada con base en un muestreo probabilístico en 117 hogares de la comunidad. Se encontró que entre los productos que conforman el abasto alimentario, los producidos localmente tienen poca relevancia. El prevalenciente consumo de maíz y sus derivados, indica la persistencia de una cultura alimentaria tradicional a través del tiempo. También privilegia el consumo de productos lácteos y leguminosas sobre los productos cárnicos. Limitaciones: Al privilegiar la perspectiva cuantitativa, solo tenemos un acercamiento parcial a las prácticas alimentarias. No obstante, es posible adelantar que, junto a la persistencia protagónica del maíz, se identifica un cambio en las prácticas de alimentación de la comunidad a la par de transformaciones de actividades económicas de la población.
Caracterización del sector ladrillero en Puebla, México: Producción, comercialización, pobreza y territorio
Authors: Ortíz Herrera Luis Ángel , Aguilar Estrada Alma Esther , Ramos Cortés Roberto Osvaldo
Published: July 2020

La producción de ladrillos es una actividad económica históricamente predominante en hogares rural-urbanos con pobreza elevada de la región Angelópolis, en Puebla, México. El objetivo del presente trabajo fue elaborar una tipología y caracterizar a 239 ladrilleras artesanales de la región, para lo cual se emplearon métodos estadísticos multivariados. Se concluye que en la región conviven tres tipos de ladrilleras: tradicionales, mecanizadas e innovadoras. Identificar las características y principales diferencias es un referente para impulsar el desarrollo endógeno de la región y disminuir los niveles de pobreza, principalmente, por la trascendencia de la actividad en la generación de ingreso rural no agropecuario, para las familias periurbanas.
Technical Note: Effect of varying the λ = 185 and 254 nm photon flux ratio on radical generation in oxidation flow reactors
Authors: Rowe Jake P. , Lambe Andrew T. , Brune William H.
Published: July 2020

Abstract. Oxidation flow reactors (OFRs) complement environmental smog chambers as a portable, low-cost technique for exposing atmospheric compounds to oxidants such as ozone (O3) and hydroxyl (OH) radicals. OH is most commonly generated in OFRs via photolysis of externally added O3 at λ = 254  nm (OFR254), or combined photolysis of O2 and H2O at λ = 185 nm plus photolysis of O3 at λ = 254 nm (OFR185) using low-pressure mercury (Hg) lamps. Whereas OFR254 radical generation is influenced by [O3], [H2O], and photon flux at λ = 254 nm (I254), OFR185 radical generation is influenced by [O2], [H2O], I185, and I254. Because the ratio of photon fluxes, I185 : I254, is OFR-specific, OFR185 performance varies between different systems even when constant H2O and I254 are maintained. Thus, calibrations and models developed for one OFR185 system may not be applicable to another. To investigate these issues, we conducted a series of experiments in which I185 : I254 emitted by Hg lamps installed in an OFR was systematically varied by fusing multiple segments of lamp quartz together that either transmitted or blocked 185 nm radiation. Integrated OH exposure (OHexp) values achieved for each lamp type were obtained using the tracer decay method as a function of UV intensity, humidity, residence time, and external OH reactivity (OHRext). Following previous related studies, a photochemical box model was used to develop a generalized OHexp estimation equation as a function of [H2O], [O3] and OHRext that is applicable for I185 : I254 ≈ 0.001 to 0.1.
BeiDa Imaging Electron Spectrometer observation of multi-period electron flux modulation caused by localized ultra-low-frequency waves
Authors: Chen Xingran , Zong Qiugang , Zou Hong , Zhou Xuzhi , Li Li , Hao Yixin , Wang Yongfu
Published: July 2020

Abstract. We present multi-period modulation of energetic electron flux observed by the BeiDa Imaging Electron Spectrometer (BD-IES) on board a Chinese navigation satellite on 13 October 2015. Electron flux oscillations were observed at a dominant period of ∼190 s in consecutive energy channels from ∼50 to ∼200 keV. Interestingly, flux modulations at a secondary period of ∼400 s were also unambiguously observed. The oscillating signals at different energy channels were observed in sequence, with a time delay of up to ∼900 s. This time delay far exceeds the oscillating periods, by which we speculate that the modulations were caused by localized ultra-low-frequency (ULF) waves. To verify the wave–particle interaction scenario, we revisit the classic drift-resonance theory. We adopt the calculation method therein to derive the electron energy change in a multi-period ULF wave field. Then, based on the modeled energy change, we construct the flux variations to be observed by a virtual spacecraft. The predicted particle signatures well agree with the BD-IES observations. We demonstrate that the particle energy change might be underestimated in the conventional theories, as the Betatron acceleration induced by the curl of the wave electric field was often omitted. In addition, we show that azimuthally localized waves would notably extend the energy width of the resonance peak, whereas the drift-resonance interaction is only efficient for particles at the resonant energy in the original theory.
Quantifying spatiotemporal variability in zooplankton dynamics in the Gulf of Mexico with a physical–biogeochemical model
Authors: Shropshire Taylor A. , Morey Steven L. , Chassignet Eric P. , Bozec Alexandra , Coles Victoria J. , Landry Michael R. , Swalethorp Rasmus , Zapfe Glenn , Stukel Michael R.
Published: July 2020

Abstract. Zooplankton play an important role in global biogeochemistry, and their
secondary production supports valuable fisheries of the world's oceans.
Currently, zooplankton standing stocks cannot be estimated using remote
sensing techniques. Hence, coupled physical–biogeochemical models (PBMs)
provide an important tool for studying zooplankton on regional and global
scales. However, evaluating the accuracy of zooplankton biomass estimates
from PBMs has been a major challenge due to sparse observations. In this
study, we configure a PBM for the Gulf of Mexico (GoM) from 1993 to 2012 and
validate the model against an extensive combination of biomass and rate
measurements. Spatial variability in a multidecadal database of
mesozooplankton biomass for the northern GoM is well resolved by the model
with a statistically significant (p < 0.01) correlation of 0.90.
Mesozooplankton secondary production for the region averaged 66±8×109 kg C yr−1, equivalent to ∼10 % of
net primary production (NPP), and ranged from 51 to 82×109 kg C yr−1, with higher secondary production inside cyclonic eddies and
substantially reduced secondary production in anticyclonic eddies. Model
results from the shelf regions suggest that herbivory is the dominant
feeding mode for small mesozooplankton (< 1 mm), whereas larger mesozooplankton are primarily carnivorous. In open-ocean oligotrophic
waters, however, both mesozooplankton groups show proportionally greater
reliance on heterotrophic protists as a food source. This highlights an
important role of microbial and protistan food webs in sustaining
mesozooplankton biomass in the GoM, which serves as the primary food source
for early life stages of many commercially important fish species, including
tuna.
Carbon Monitoring System Flux Net Biosphere Exchange 2020 (CMS-Flux NBE 2020)
Authors: Liu Junjie , Baskaran Latha , Bowman Kevin , Schimel David , Bloom A. Anthony , Parazoo Nicholas C. , Oda Tomohiro , Carroll Dustin , Menemenlis Dimitris , Joiner Joanna , Commane Roisin , Daube Bruce , Gatii Lucianna V. , McKain Kathryn , Miller John , Stephens Britton B. , Sweeney Colm , Wofsy Steven
Published: July 2020

Abstract. Here we present a global and regionally-resolved terrestrial net biosphere exchange (NBE) dataset with corresponding uncertainties between 2010–2018: CMS-Flux NBE 2020. It is estimated using the NASA Carbon Monitoring System Flux (CMS-Flux) top-down flux inversion system that assimilates column CO2 observations from Greenhouse gases Observing SATellite (GOSAT) and the NASA’s Observing Carbon Observatory-2 (OCO-2). The regional monthly fluxes are readily accessible as tabular files, and the gridded fluxes are available in NetCDF format. The fluxes and their uncertainty estimates are evaluated by extensively comparing the posterior CO2 mole fractions with aircraft CO2 observations. We describe the characteristics of the dataset as global total, regional climatological mean, and regional annual fluxes and seasonal cycles. We find that the global total fluxes of the dataset agree with atmospheric CO2 growth observed by the surface-observation network within uncertainty. Averaged between 2010 and 2018, the tropical regions range from close-to neutral in tropical South America to a net source in Africa; these contrast the extra-tropics, which are a net sink of 2.5 ± 0.3 gigaton carbon per year. The regional satellite-constrained NBE estimates provide a unique perspective for understanding the terrestrial biosphere carbon dynamics and monitoring changes in regional contributions to the changes of atmospheric CO2 growth rate. The gridded and regional aggregated dataset can be accessed at: https://doi.org/10.25966%2F4v02-c391 (Liu et al., 2020).
Enhancement and validation of the state-of-the-art global hydrological model H08 (v.bio1) to simulate second-generation herbaceous bioenergy crop yield
Authors: Ai Zhipin , Hanasaki Naota , Heck Vera , Hasegawa Tomoko , Fujimori Shinichiro
Published: July 2020

Abstract. Large-scale deployment of bioenergy plantations would have adverse effects on water resources. There is an increasing need to ensure the appropriate inclusion of the bioenergy crops in global hydrological models. Here, through parameter calibration and algorithm improvement, we enhanced the global hydrological model H08 to simulate the bioenergy yield from two dedicated herbaceous bioenergy crops, Miscanthus and switchgrass. Site-specific evaluations showed that the enhanced model had the ability to simulate yield for both Miscanthus and switchgrass, with the calibrated yields being well within the ranges of the observed yield. Independent country-specific evaluations further confirmed the performance of the enhanced H08. Using this improved model, we found that unconstrained irrigation more than doubled the yield of the rainfed condition, but reduced the water use efficiency (WUE) by 32 % globally. With irrigation, the yield in dry climate zones can exceed the rainfed yields in tropical climate zones. Nevertheless, due to the low water consumption in tropical areas, the highest WUE was found in tropical climate zones, regardless of whether the crop was irrigated. Our enhanced model provides a new tool for the future assessment of bioenergy–water tradeoffs.
Technical Note: Disentangling the groundwater response to Earth
and atmospheric tides to improve subsurface characterisation
Authors: Rau Gabriel C. , Cuthbert Mark O. , Acworth R. Ian , Blum Philipp
Published: July 2020

Abstract. The groundwater response to Earth tides and atmospheric pressure changes can be used to understand subsurface processes and estimate hydraulic and hydro-mechanical properties. We develop a generalised frequency domain approach to disentangle the impacts of Earth and atmospheric tides on groundwater level responses. By considering the complex harmonic properties of the signal, we improve upon a previous method for estimating barometric efficiency (BE) estimation while simultaneously assessing system confinement and estimating hydraulic conductivity as well as specific storage. We demonstrate and validate the novel approach using an example barometric and groundwater pressure record with strong Earth tide influences. Our method enables improved and rapid assessment of subsurface processes and properties using standard pressure measurements.
Identifying robust bias adjustment methods for extreme precipitation in a pseudo-reality setting
Authors: Schmith Torben , Thejll Peter , Berg Peter , Boberg Fredrik , Christensen Ole Bøssing , Christiansen Bo , Christensen Jens Hesselbjerg , Steger Christian , Madsen Marianne Sloth
Published: July 2020

Abstract. Severe precipitation events occur rarely and are often localized in space and of short duration; but they are important for societal managing of infrastructure. Therefore, there is a demand for estimating future changes in the statistics of these rare events. These are usually projected using Regional Climate Model (RCM) scenario simulations combined with extreme value analysis to obtain selected return levels of precipitation intensity. However, due to imperfections in the formulation of the physical parameterizations in the RCMs, the simulated present-day climate usually has biases relative to observations. Therefore, the RCM results are often bias-adjusted to match observations. This does, however, not guarantee that bias-adjusted projected results will match future reality better, since the bias may change in a changed climate. In the present work we evaluate different bias adjustment techniques in a changing climate. This is done in an inter-model cross-validation setup, in which each model simulation in turn plays the role of pseudo-reality, against which the remaining model simulations are bias adjusted and validated. The study uses hourly data from present-day and RCP8.5 late 21st century from 19 model simulations from the EURO-CORDEX ensemble at 0.11° resolution, from which fields of selected return levels are calculated for hourly and daily time scale. The bias adjustment techniques applied to the return levels are based on extreme value analysis and include analytical quantile-matching together with the simpler climate factor approach. Generally, return levels can be improved by bias adjustment, compared to obtaining them from raw scenarios. The performance of the different methods depends of the time scale considered. On hourly time scale, the climate factor approach performs better than the quantile-matching approaches. On daily time scale, the superior approach is to simply deduce future return levels from observations and the second best choice is using the quantile-mapping approaches. These results are found in all European sub-regions considered.
Including informal housing in slope stability analysis – an application to a data-scarce location in the humid tropics
Authors: Bozzolan Elisa , Holcombe Elizabeth , Pianosi Francesca , Wagener Thorsten
Published: July 2020

Abstract. Empirical evidence from the humid tropics shows that informal housing can increase the occurrence of rainfall-triggered landslides. However, informal housing is rarely accounted for in landslide hazard assessments at community or larger scales. We include informal housing influences (vegetation removal, slope cutting, house loading and point water sources) in a slope stability analysis. We extend the mechanistic model CHASM (Combined Hydrology and Stability Model) to include leaking pipes, septic tanks, and roof gutters. We test CHASM+ in a region of the humid tropics, using a stochastic framework to account for uncertainties related to model parameters and drivers (incl. climate change). We find slope cutting to be the most detrimental construction activity for slope stability. When informal housing is present, more failures (+85 %) are observed in slopes with low landslide susceptibility and for high intensity, short duration precipitations. As a result, the rainfall threshold for triggering landslides is lower when compared to non-urbanised slopes, and comparable to those found empirically for similar urbanised regions. Finally, low cost-effective low regrets mitigation actions are suggested to tackle the main landslide drivers identified in the study area.
Basin inversion and structural architecture as constraints on fluid flow and Pb–Zn mineralization in the Paleo–Mesoproterozoic sedimentary sequences of northern Australia
Authors: Gibson George M. , Edwards Sally
Published: July 2020

Abstract. As host to several world-class sediment-hosted Pb–Zn deposits and unknown
quantities of conventional and unconventional gas, the variably inverted
1730–1640 Ma Calvert and 1640–1575 Ma Isa superbasins of northern
Australia have been the subject of numerous seismic reflection studies with
a view to better understanding basin architecture and fluid migration
pathways. These studies reveal a structural architecture common to inverted
sedimentary basins the world over, including much younger examples known to
be prospective for oil and gas in the North Sea and elsewhere, with
which they might be usefully compared. Such comparisons lend themselves to
suggestions that the mineral and petroleum systems in Paleo–Mesoproterozoic
northern Australia may have spatially, if not temporally overlapped and
shared a common tectonic driver, consistent with the observation that
basinal sequences hosting Pb–Zn mineralization in northern Australia are
bituminous or abnormally enriched in hydrocarbons. Sediment-hosted Pb–Zn
mineralization coeval with basin inversion first occurred during the
1650–1640 Ma Riversleigh Tectonic Event towards the close of the Calvert
Superbasin with further pulses taking place during and subsequent to the onset of the 1620–1580 Ma Isa Orogeny and final closure of the Isa Superbasin.
Mineralization is typically hosted by the post-rift or syn-inversion
fraction of basin fill, contrary to existing interpretations of Pb–Zn ore
genesis where the ore-forming fluids are introduced during the rifting or
syn-extensional phase of basin development. Mineralizing fluids were instead
expelled upwards during times of crustal shortening into structural and/or
chemical traps developing in the hangingwalls of inverted normal faults.
Inverted normal faults predominantly strike NNW and ENE, giving rise to a
complex architecture of compartmentalized sub-basins whose individual
uplifted basement blocks and doubly plunging periclinal folds exerted a
strong control not only on the distribution and preservation of potential
trap rocks but the direction of fluid flow, culminating in the co-location
and trapping of mineralizing and hydrocarbon fluids in the same carbonaceous
rocks. An important case study is the 1575 Ma Century Pb–Zn deposit where
the carbonaceous host rocks served as both a reductant and basin seal during
the influx of more oxidized mineralizing fluids, forcing the latter to give
up their Pb and Zn metal. A transpressive tectonic regime in which basin
inversion and mineralization were paired to folding, uplift, and erosion
during arc–continent or continent–continent collision, and accompanied by
orogen-parallel extensional collapse and strike-slip faulting best accounts
for the observed relationships.
Basel IV Postponed: A Chance to Regulate Shadow Banking?
Authors: Parchimowicz Katarzyna , Spence Ross
Published: July 2020

Basel IV Postponed: A Chance to Regulate Shadow Banking?

In the aftermath of the 2007 global financial crisis, regulators have agreed a substantial tightening of prudential regulation for banks operating in the traditional banking sector (TBS). The TBS is stringently regulated under the Basel Accords to moderate financial stability and to minimise risk to government and taxpayers. While prudential regulation is important from a financial stability perspective, the flipside is that the Basel Accords only apply to the TBS, they do not regulate the shadow banking sector (SBS). While it is not disputed that the SBS provides numerous benefits given the net credit growth of the economy since the global financial crisis has come from the SBS rather than traditional banking channels, the SBS also poses many risks. Therefore, the fact that the SBS is not subject to prudential regulation is a cause of serious systemic concern. The introduction of Basel IV, which compliments Basel III, seeks to complete the Basel framework on prudential banking regulation. On the example of this set of standards and its potential negative consequences for the TBS, this paper aims to visualise the incentives for TBS institutions to move some of their activities into the SBS, and thus stress the need for more comprehensive regulation of the SBS. Current coronavirus crisis forced Basel Committee to postpone implementation of the Basel IV rules – this could be perceived as a chance to complete the financial regulatory framework and address the SBS as well.
Electrospun nanofibers: A nanotechnological approach for drug delivery and dissolution optimization in poorly water-soluble drugs
Authors: Castillo-Henríquez Luis , Vargas-Zúñiga Rolando , Pacheco-Molina Jorge , Vega-Baudrit Jose
Published: July 2020

Electrospinning is a novel and sophisticated technique for the production of nanofibers with high surface area, extreme porous structure, small pore size, and surface morphologies that make them suitable for biomedical and bioengineering applications, which can provide solutions to current drug delivery issues of poorly water-soluble drugs. Electrospun nanofibers can be obtained through different methods asides from the conventional one, such as coaxial, multi-jet, side by side, emulsion, and melt electrospinning. In general, the application of an electric potential to a polymer solution causes a charged liquid jet that moves downfield to an oppositely charged collector, where the nanofibers are deposited. Plenty of polymers that differ in their origin, degradation character and water affinity are used during the process. Physicochemical properties of the drug, polymer(s), and solvent systems need to be addressed to guarantee successful manufacturing. Therefore, this review summarizes the recent progress in electrospun nanofibers for their use as a nanotechnological tool for dissolution optimization and drug delivery systems for poorly water-soluble drugs.
Molecular biology methods in assessing occupational exposure to harmful biological agents
Authors: BAKAL ALEKSANDRA , Górny Rafał , Ławniczek-Wałczyk ANNA , Cyprowski Marcin
Published: July 2020

All employers are responsible for ensuring safe working conditions for employees in their workplace.
It is necessary to accurately identify and eliminate all hazards that are possible to remove
and to ensure proper collective and personal protective measures. Among occupational hazards, biological
agents are one of the most important. They are considered as the most frequent cause of occupational
diseases in Poland. They can affect human body and cause various adverse health outcomes
such as allergies, irritations, infections, toxicoses or even a cancer. Among them we can distinguish
harmful microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, fungi), human parasites and biologically active chemical
compounds produced by microorganisms (e.g., fungal mycotoxins). Currently, the most frequent
used laboratory procedures to identify biological hazards are culture-based, microscopic and biochemical
methods. Despite their unquestionable advantages and widespread presence, these techniques
have also important limitations. They only enable identification of microorganisms which are
viable and capable to grow in laboratory conditions.
As the studies have shown, such microorganisms constitute (in extreme cases) merely 1% of
their population present in the environment. This paper presents an overview of molecular biology
methods (based on DNA analysis) which allow the qualitative and quantitative identification of microorganisms,
determining their biochemical features and enabling to obtain their environmental species
profile without the need for their culturing in laboratory conditions. Application of these methods
provides more accurate identification of microorganisms present in occupational environment, allowing
more precise analysis of potential health risks derived from exposure to harmful biological
agents.
Emergency Tracheostomy in Two Airway Trauma Patients Suspected of COVID-19: A Case Report
Authors: Hassani Valiollah , Amniati Saied , Ahmadi Aslan , Mohseni Masood , Sehat-Kashani Saloome , Nikoubakht Nasim , Derakhshan Pooya , Farahmand Rad Reza , Habibi Azadeh
Published: July 2020

: Coronavirus disease 2019, known as COVID-19, was first identified in Wuhan, China, in December 2019 and became a pandemic on Mar 11, according to the World Health Organization report. In the epidemic of COVID-19, many patients admitted to hospitals for other reasons may be silent carriers of COVID-19 and have the risk of infecting medical personnel. Thus, meticulous personal protection measures should be considered in suspicious patients, especially when close contact with the patient’s airway is anticipated. We introduce two airway trauma patients suspected of COVID-19 who required emergency tracheostomy. Patient one was a 29-year-old man who suffered facial trauma following a car accident. A chest CT scan showed peripheral ground-glass opacities suggestive for COVID-19. The second patient was a young elevator mechanic who experienced maxillofacial trauma after an elevator crash. The methods of anesthesia and airway protection and safety precautions are described.
The Effect of Foot Reflexology on Fatigue, Sleep Quality and Anxiety in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Sajadi Mahbobeh , Davodabady Fahimeh , Ebrahimi-Monfared Mohsen
Published: July 2020

Background: Fatigue, sleep disorders, and anxiety are common symptoms in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. MS reduced the quality of life by these symptoms in patients. Studies have shown that foot reflexology may reduce some problems of this disease. Objectives: The present randomized controlled trial study investigated the effect of reflexology on fatigue, sleep quality, and anxiety in patients with multiple sclerosis. Methods: This study included 63 patients with MS referred to Arak MS society in 2018 - 2019. Reflexology and placebo intervention had applied twice a week for 4 weeks, and each session lasted about 30 - 40 minutes. Fatigue Impact scale (FIS), Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI) and state-trait anxiety inventory (STAI) was used for data collection before and after the intervention. A significant statistical level was considered 0.05. Data were analyzed using the SPSS software (V. 16.0). Results: Significant improvement was observed in physical fatigue (P = 0.042), sleep quality (P = 0.001) and anxiety (P = 0.034) in the reflexology group after the intervention. Fatigue Impact Scale (FIS) revealed a decrease in fatigue level in MS patients, but these alterations were not significant (P = 0.134). Conclusions: Reflexology is a non-invasive, simple, affordable, and low-cost nursing intervention that can be helpful in reducing physical fatigue, anxiety, and improving sleep quality of people with MS.
Molecular Detection and Identification of Bacteria in Urine Samples of Asymptomatic and Symptomatic Pregnant Women by 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing
Authors: Lakshmi Pragya , Bharadwaj Alok , Srivastava Ranjan Kumar
Published: July 2020

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to identify bacteria in urine samples of pregnant women of asymptomatic and symptomatic women by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. This study aims to identify different strains of microbes causing urinary tract infection (UTI). Methods: In the semi-quantitative culture technique, bacterial isolates such as Escherichia coli, Klebsiella, Pseudomonas, Staphylococcus, Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus, and Proteus were subjected to 16S rRNA gene sequencing followed by BLAST analysis and phylogenetic tree formation. The 16S rRNA gene sequencing was carried out to identify the specific strains of bacteria causing UTI. Results: According to the BLAST analysis, sample 1 revealed a 100% similarity to E. coli strain U5/41. Likewise, samples 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 exhibited a 100% similarity to Klebsiella aerogenes strain F26, Pseudomonas entomophila strain 2014, Staphylococcus aureus strain NCTC13616, Staphylococcus saprophyticus strain FDAARGOS_355, Proteus mirabilis strain NCTC 11938, respectively. Conclusions: Six bacterial isolates were analyzed by 16S RNA gene sequencing followed by the construction of a phylogenetic tree construction up to the species level. This method was a valuable tool for cost-effective and accurate diagnosis of an array of uropathogens in both asymptomatic and symptomatic pregnant women.
Comparison of Working Memory and Executive Function in Patients with Internet Addiction Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and Normal Individuals
Authors: Shafiee-Kandjani Ali Reza , Mohammadzadeh Zahra , Amiri Shahrokh , Arfaie Asghar , Sarbakhsh Parvin , Safikhanlou Salman
Published: July 2020

Background: Cognitive functions are higher-order cortical activities that include various parameters such as concentration, executive function, and working memory. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to compare cognitive functions in three groups of Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Internet Addiction Disorder (IAD), and normal people. Patients and Methods: This descriptive-analytical study included patients with ADHD, IAD, and normal individuals (26 normal individuals and 27 patients in each of the IAD and ADHD groups) who were evaluated by Conners’ Adult Scale, General Health Questionnaire (GHQ), Young Internet Addiction Test, and Persian Paper and Pencil Cognitive Assessment Package (PCAP). Data were analyzed by SPSS 23 software. The ANOVA test with Bonferroni’s pairwise comparison and chi-square test were used for data analysis at a significance level of 0.05. Results: The results showed that the ADHD subjects scored higher (P < 0.01) on the GHQ test and its subscales, as well as the Conners’ test. Also, patients with ADHD had lower scores on attention, concentration, and working memory scales than IAD and normal counterparts (P < 0.01). Working memory was weaker in IAD patients than normal subjects and ADHD and cognitive function is more damaged than IAD. Conclusions: The results showed that patients with ADHD had higher levels of impairment in working memory than IAD patients. Meanwhile, cognitive deficits were more sensible in ADHD.
Effects of Cyclosporine Therapy on Liver and Kidney Retrieval in Poisoned Male Rats by Mesobuthus eupeus Scorpion Venom
Authors: Zangiabadi Sara , Navidpour Shahrokh , Zolfagharian Hossein , Vaezi Gholamhassan
Published: July 2020

Background: Mesobuthus eupeus venom is a member of Buthidae family, which can enter the blood circulation exerting detrimental effects on body organs, such as the liver and kidney through inflammation. Cyclosporine, known as an anti-inflammatory drug, is used to treat many inflammation-associated diseases. Objectives: In this study, cyclosporine was selected to inhibit the scorpion toxin effects on rat organs. Methods: This experimental study was conducted in the Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Agricultural Research Education and Extension Organization, Karaj, Iran, from June to November 2019. Fifty male rats were randomly divided into five groups of 10, including the control (10 mg/kg olive oil i.p), M. eupeus venom (10 mg/kg i.p.), cyclosporine 10 mg/kg (venom 10 mg/kg for 30 min i.p followed by cyclosporine 10/kg mg for 7 day i.p.), cyclosporine 20 mg/kg (venom 10 mg/kg for 30 min i.p followed by cyclosporine 20 mg/kg for 7 day i.p.), and cyclosporine 30 mg/kg (venom 10 mg/kg for 30 min i.p followed by cyclosporine 30 mg/kg for 7 day i.p.). After treatment with cyclosporine, the liver and kidney function was analyzed by calculating some biochemical enzymes, including serum glutamate-pyruvate transaminase (SGPT), serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), nitric oxide (NO), interleukin-2 (IL-2), malondialdehyde (MDA), creatinine, and urea via ELISA and spectrophotometry. Then, to determine the rate of apoptosis in tissue, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling method was done. Results: At the end of the study, the results showed a significant elevation in SGPT (164.5 ± 10 vs. 126.2 ± 7, P < 0.0001), SGOT (190.37 ± 11 vs. 148 ± 10, P < 0.0001), NO (24.4 ± 1.17 vs. 17.4 ± 1.4, P = 0.02), and MDA (0.42 ± 0.05 vs. 0.22 ± 0.04, P < 0.0001) in the venom group compared with the control group. There were no significant differences in the urea, IL-2, and creatinine between the venom and control groups. However, the group receiving cyclosporine (30 mg/kg) showed a significant decline in SGPT (96.42 ± 5.7 vs. 164.5 ± 10, P < 0.0001), SGOT (144.57 ± 9.24 vs. 190.37 ± 11, P < 0.0001), urea (28.83 ± 1.32 vs. 38.83 ± 1.6, P = 0.00), creatinine (0.023 ± 0.01vs. 0.29 ± 0.005, P < 0.0001), and MDA (0.10 ± 0.01 vs. 0.42 ± 0.05, P < 0.0001), as well as increased apoptosis rate (P < 0.05), compared with the venom group. No significant difference was observed between the cyclosporine and venom groups in NO and IL-2. Conclusions: Cyclosporine at a dose of 30 mg was able to decrease inflammatory responses and induce apoptosis rate. Therefore, it could be a suitable drug for patients bitten by a scorpion sting.
Explaining Consequences of Parents Having Child with Thalassemia: Qualitative Study
Authors: Heidari Haydeh , Ahmadi Ali
Published: July 2020

Background: Thalassemia can affect different aspects of life the same as any other chronic disease. Despite therapeutic measures of thalassemia, the patient and families encounter several physical and psychological problems. Having a child with thalassemia can disrupts the family mental balance. Objectives: The purpose of this study is to explain the consequences of parents who have children with thalassemia. Methods: Inductive qualitative approach was applied in 2017 - 2018 in Hajar Hospital. Semi-structured interviews were conducted for data collection. Qualitative conventional content analysis was employed for data analysis. 10 five mothers, one grandmother, and two fathers and nurses participated in this study. Results: The three specified categories were as follows: (1) Non-acceptance of disease: disbelief, not following up treatment, and interest for abortion, (2) parent psychological reactions: unhappiness, anxiety, and mental confusion, (3) Isolation: dissociation and stigma. Conclusions: Parents who had children with thalassemia experienced several psychological problems. The consultative and supportive services of the health system were necessary for these parents. Also, it was urgent that the health authorities establish consulting clinics for chronic diseases to provide them the required consulting services.
Relationship Between Perceptions of Treatment Goals and Psychological Distress in Patients With Advanced Cancer
Authors: El-Jawahri Areej , Forst Deborah , Fenech Alyssa , Brenner Keri O. , Jankowski Amanda L. , Waldman Lauren , Sereno Isabella , Nipp Ryan , Greer Joseph A. , Traeger Lara , Jackson Vicki , Temel Jennifer
Published: July 2020

Background: Studies have shown gaps in prognostic understanding among patients with cancer. However, few studies have explored patients’ perceptions of their treatment goals versus how they perceive their oncologist’s goals, and the association of these views with their psychological distress. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study of 559 patients with incurable lung, gastrointestinal, breast, and brain cancers. The Prognosis and Treatment Perception Questionnaire was used to assess patients’ reports of their treatment goal and their oncologist’s treatment goal, and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale was used to assess patients’ psychological symptoms. Results: We found that 61.7% of patients reported that both their treatment goal and their oncologist’s treatment goal were noncurative, whereas 19.3% reported that both their goal and their oncologist’s goal were to cure their cancer, 13.9% reported that their goal was to cure their cancer whereas their oncologist’s goal was noncurative, and 5% reported that their goal was noncurative whereas their oncologist’s goal was curative. Patients who reported both their goal and their oncologist’s goal as noncurative had higher levels of depression (B=0.99; P=.021) and anxiety symptoms (B=1.01; P=.015) compared with those who reported that both their goal and their oncologist’s goal was curative. Patients with discordant perceptions of their goal and their oncologist’s goal reported higher anxiety symptoms (B=1.47; P=.004) compared with those who reported that both their goal and their oncologist’s goal were curative. Conclusions: One-fifth of patients with incurable cancer reported that both their treatment goal and their oncologist’s goal were to cure their cancer. Patients who acknowledged the noncurative intent of their treatment and those who perceived that their treatment goal was discordant from that of their oncologist reported greater psychological distress.
A Web-Based Tool to Automate Portions of Pretest Genetic Counseling for Inherited Cancer
Authors: Cragun Deborah , Weidner Anne , Tezak Ann , Zuniga Brenda , Wiesner Georgia L. , Pal Tuya
Published: July 2020

Background: Increasing demand for genetic testing for inherited cancer risk coupled with a shortage of providers trained in genetics highlight the potential for automated tools embedded in the clinic process to meet this demand. We developed and tested a scalable, easy-to-use, 12-minute web-based educational tool that included standard pretest genetic counseling elements related to panel-based testing for multiple genes associated with cancer risk. Methods: The tool was viewed by new patients at the Vanderbilt Hereditary Cancer Clinic before meeting with a board-certified genetics professional. Pre- and post-tool surveys measured knowledge, feeling informed/empowered to decide about testing, attitudinal values about genetic testing, and health literacy. Of the initial 100 participants, 50 were randomized to only have knowledge measured on the post-tool survey to assess for a priming effect. Results: Of 360 patients approached, 305 consented and completed both the pre- and post-tool surveys, with a mean age of 47 years, including 80% female patients and 48% patients with cancer. Survey results showed an increase in knowledge and feeling informed/empowered after viewing the tool (P<.001), but no significant change in attitude (P=.64). Post-tool survey data indicated no difference in median knowledge between low and high health literacy groups (P=.30). No priming effect was present among the initial 100 participants (P=.675). Conclusions: Viewing the educational tool resulted in significant gains in knowledge across health literacy levels, and most individuals felt informed and empowered to decide about genetic testing. These findings indicate that the use of an automated pretest genetic counseling tool may help streamline the delivery of genetic services.
Evolving Role of Immunotherapy in Recurrent Metastatic Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Le Xiuning , Ferrarotto Renata , Wise-Draper Trisha , Gillison Maura
Published: July 2020

Immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer treatment in the past 2 decades, mostly with immune checkpoint blockade approaches. In squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN), the initial efficacy of immunotherapy was observed in patients with recurrent or metastatic (R/M) disease who received other prior systemic treatment. As monotherapy, anti–PD-1 therapies induce responses in 13% to 18% of patients. More recently, immunotherapy in combination with cytotoxic chemotherapy demonstrated greater safety and efficacy as first-line systemic treatment compared with chemotherapy alone. In R/M SCCHN, the most important benefit of immunotherapy is the significantly improved overall survival, especially in patients with PD-L1–positive tumors. As of 2019, immunotherapy can be used as first-line or subsequent treatment of R/M SCCHN. Many ongoing trials are evaluating immunotherapy combinations or novel immunotherapy strategies, aiming to improve response rate and overall survival. As new targets are identified and new approaches are leveraged, the role of immunotherapy in R/M SCCHN continues to evolve.