bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluación del diagnóstico clínico, la aspiración citología con aguja fina y la mamografía, en lesiones palpables de la glándula mamaria
Authors: Ceballos María Clemencia , Díaz Constancia , Serna Eduardo , Uribe Jaime , Sannin Alejandro
Published: May 2020

El análisis de 322 lesiones palpables de la mama, con estudio histo-patológico, mostró alta sensibilidad, especificidad, valor predictivo positivo y valor predictivo negativo, a la combinación del diagnóstico clínico y la aspiración citología con aguja fina, y a la de éstas con la mamografía.
Análisis psicológico de la incontinencia urinaria femenina
Authors: Lomanto Morán Antonio , Sánchez Angarita Jacinto , Rochel Navarro Beatriz Y.
Published: May 2020

El objetivo de la investigación es la aplicación de un programa de Intervención Psicológica que identifique e intervenga factores que dificulten la adherencia al tratamiento médico prescrito a pacientes con incontinencia urinaria en el Instituto Materno Infantil (I.M.I.). Los sujetos fueron 80 mujeres de estrato socioeconómico medio-bajo, con edades entre los 30 y 70 años que presentaban el cuadro. Se hizo uso de un diseño cuasi experimental de dos grupos, experimental y control. La variable independiente fue el paquete terapéutico que fomentó la adherencia al tratamiento. El análisis de los resultados permite establecer características de acuerdo con cada uno de los grupos diagnósticos en cuanto a los niveles de neuroticismo, ansiedad, depresión y estilos de afrontamiento. Igualmente se estableció la eficacia del programa psicológico para la identificación y manejo de las diversas variables que afectan el cumplimiento.
Embarazo heterotópico: Presentación de un caso
Authors: Sarmiento Andrés , Silva Luis Eduardo , Jordán Anaheim , Carrillo Mauricio
Published: May 2020

Se presenta el caso de una paciente con gestación heterotópica. Se revisan aspectos relacionados con la etiología, diagnóstico y manejo de esta entidad. Se hace énfasis en el aumento de la incidencia de esta patología, especialmente en pacientes sometidas a técnicas de reproducción asistida. Las estadísticas previas donde se refería a esta entidad como infrecuente deben ser revaluadas.
Phenomenological Concept of Law from the Perspective of Carlos Cossio
Authors: Goździalski Krzysztof
Published: May 2020

The originality of Cossio’s works is expressed by a strong relationship between philosophy of law and his philosophical assumptions. The starting point for deliberating on law are widely recognized ontological and epistemological contentions. Cossio justifies his legal theses basing them on his philosophical views. Egology derives from Edmund Husserl’s phenomenology which is related to some elements of William Dilthey’s philosophy of culture. Martin Heiddeger’s and Immanuel Kant’s philosophies are the basis too. The first part describes Cossio’s ontologies of subjects otherwise known as regional ontologies. Methods for examining the above subjects and gnoseological acts are presented here too. The second part presents the characteristics of law as a cultural subject. The article is not only a report. Its aim is also to show that Carlos Cossio’s legal philosophy is semantic in character.
Evaluating COs of computer programming course for OBE-based BSc in EEE program
Authors: Bhuyan Muhibul Haque , Tamir Azwad
Published: May 2020

It is an important and challenging task to develop concepts and skills of undergraduate engineering students in computer programming course and hence their evaluation on higher order skills. Already several methods are developed to evaluate the students of this course for various engineering programs, but a method for undergraduate electrical and electronic engineering (EEE) program was not found in the literature. In this paper, a simple evaluation method for the students of computer programming course of undergraduate EEE (BSc in EEE) program has been reported using result-oriented learning. Detail methodology, course syllabus design, course outcomes (COs) and mapping it with program outcomes (POs) of BSc in EEE, question setting following Bloom’s taxonomy, laboratory experiment, assessment plan, course and PO evaluation data and graphs have been presented along with relevant statistics. All data are presented for a cohort of students who took this course in summer 2019 Semester at EEE Department of Southeast University. It has been observed that the target set by the course teacher has been achieved by the students. Recommendations of the course teacher for further improvement of the COs’ achievement have also been presented. Keywords: CO evaluation, programming course, OBE
Model-based instruction to improve the concept of students on human anatomy: Primary School, Ethiopia
Authors: Kelkay Asrat Dagnew , Endris Aminat
Published: May 2020

The purpose of this study was to improve the conceptual understanding of students using model-based teaching about the human skeletal system in grade seven. Quasi-experimental research was employed pre- and post-test, control and experimental group design. Out of four sections, two sections (n = 132) were selected using simple random sampling techniques. The data were gathered by tests, observation and informal assessment. The data obtained from tests were analysed quantitatively through mean, standard deviation, independent t-test and the observation and informal assessmentdata were analysed qualitatively. The pre-test results indicated that there was no significant mean difference and p>0.05 between the two groups. Similarly, the result of pre-informal assessment showed that students in both groups had common misconceptions about the topic. The post-test results revealed that model-based teaching approach exhibited significant changes compared to the traditional groups of students. From the results of this study, it is possible to conclude that the model-based teaching approach improves students’ conceptual understanding, participations and clear misconceptions compared to the students taught by traditional teaching approach. Based on the finding it was recommended that the model-based teaching approach should be encouraged for teaching and learning biology.
Keywords: Conceptual understanding, human anatomy, model-based instruction
Coping Strategies of Norwegian Healthcare Professionals Facing Perinatal Death—A Qualitative Study
Authors: André Beate , Dahlø Raija , Eilertsen Tina , Hildingsson Ingegerd , Shorey Shefaly , Ringdal Gerd I.
Published: May 2020

AIM

Perinatal death is often regarded as a critical incident for the healthcare personnel involved. How healthcare personnel respond to traumatic events in their work is a function of their level of awareness or exposure to the incident, as well as their genuine expectations, support, and trust. The aim of this study was to explore coping strategies of Norwegian healthcare professionals including midwifes, obstetricians, and assistant nurses when faced with perinatal death in a clinical setting.

METHOD

Midwives, obstetricians, and assistant nurses in two public hospitals in Norway participated in an in-depth and semi-structured interview. The data was analyzed using Kvale's approach, which involves condensing and thematic analysis.

FINDINGS

The results are divided into three categories with eight subcategories. Having the support of one's colleagues was described as an important factor for coping with these situations. Both immediate support in the situation and talking about their feelings later with colleagues were found to be important. Discussing and sharing responsibility were also mentioned.

CONCLUSION

Informants in this study stated that talking with one another about the challenges they faced in these situations was important. Appropriate education and training programs, together with healthy coping and debriefing strategies must be implemented in maternity units.
Mesotelioma Intraparenquimatoso Difuso: Uma Apresentação Rara
Authors: Pais Ana , Pinto Nicole , Cardoso João , Fernandes Manuel , Coutinho Ana Isabel , Oliveira Ana Sofia , Carvalho Lurdes , Bárbara Cristina
Published: May 2020

O mesotelioma pleural é uma doença associada à exposição ao amianto. Embora raro, é a principal neoplasia maligna da pleura, sendo o seu diagnóstico difícil e o seu prognóstico reservado. O caso clínico apresentado refere-se a um doente de 62 anos, do género masculino, com história ocupacional de exposição prolongada a amianto e clínica arrastada, com meses de evolução, de dispneia para pequenos esforços e tosse produtiva. Imagiologicamente, apresentava um envolvimento intersticial extenso com marcado espessamento dos septos interlobulares e centrilobulares, associado a ténues alterações pleurais. Várias hipóteses diagnósticas foram equacionadas tais como, asbestose, pneumonia organizativa criptogénica, pneumonia intersticial descamativa, metástases pleuropulmonares, e/ou patologia infeciosa broncopulmonar, mas o resultado histológico e imunohistoquímico foi compatível com mesotelioma pleural- uma neoplasia maligna rara, de origem pleural, com uma taxa de mortalidade elevada.
Imunodeficiência Comum Variável: A Propósito da Importância da Referenciação a Centros Especializados
Authors: Pina Trincão David , Palma Carlos Susana , Leiria Pinto Paula
Published: May 2020

N/a.
Letter to the Editor Regarding the Article: “Work-Family Balance Within the Medical Profession: An Exploratory Study”
Authors: Florea Mira
Published: May 2020

N/a.
Submeti um Artigo à Acta Médica Portuguesa. E Agora?
Authors: Villanueva Tiago , De Sousa Carla , Escada Pedro , Donato Helena , Reis Miguel
Published: May 2020

N/a.
Gestão ambiental integrada
Authors: Calonge Átila M. , Forini Sérgio L. , Oliveira Vanderlei de
Published: May 2020

O projeto “Gestão Ambiental Integrada”, inserido no Programa Institucional de Incentivo às Práticas de Investigação do Centro de Pesquisa e Extensão da Faculdade de Ciências Humanas de Pedro Leopoldo, encontra-se em fase de execução (levantamento bibliográfico, definição dossujeitos da pesquisa e organização de questionários e roteiros de entrevistas).
Juros: o preço do dinheiro
Authors: Oliveira Eli Eustáquio de
Published: May 2020

A complexidade crescente dos problemas econômico-financeiros nas empresas, face às exigências do mercado, tem ocasionado a necessidade de aplicação de técnicas de planejamento e controle dos resultados, hoje em dia, fundamentais para a efetiva prática administrativa dos negócios.
Contribution of e-learning in company productivity
Authors: Sarmento Manuela , Durão Diamantino
Published: May 2020

In the knowledge society, human resources must have updated knowledge in order to face the highly competitive markets. So, to improve productivity it is crucial that human resources have an appropriate education and training for the performance of their jobs. Competitiveness and sustainable development are related with the capacity of getting information, to transform it into knowledge and to distribute it throughout the company in order to promote the human resources knowledge
A gestão da escola pública de ensino fundamental e a diversidade socioeconômica e cultural das crianças
Authors: Leite Maria Ruth Siffert Diniz Teixeira , Duarte Vanda Catarina
Published: May 2020

A evolução do sistema educacional nos países ocidentais, ao longo das últimas quatro décadas, caracteriza-se pela tendência à universalização do ensino fundamental. No Brasil, o principal objetivo das mudanças verificadas a partir dos anos noventa é a tentativa de corrigir, mesmo que parcialmente, o padrão histórico de exclusão, de desigualdades e de baixos níveis de eficácia do sistema escolar público. A Constituição de 1988 e as recentes alterações nas legislação nacional - promulgação da nova Lei de Diretrizes e Bases da Educação Nacional (LDB/1996) e a criação do Fundo Nacional de Desenvolvimento da Educação e de Valorização do Magistério (FUNDEF,1997) - redimensionaram as diretrizes norteadoras das políticas públicas direcionadas ao ensino fundamental no país, através de propostas voltadas para a democratização e a valorização da escola pública. A nova legislação institucionalizou aaceitação da diversidade socioeconômica e cultural das crianças e o pluralismo de concepções pedagógicas. O objetivo deste trabalho é analisar como as instituições públicas de ensino fundamental estão se adequando para lidar com a diversidade socioeconômica e cultural dos alunos, a partir do novo modelo de gestão escolar instituído pela legislação vigente, e como tem ocorrido o atendimento às crianças provenientes de famílias de situação desfavorável e que apresentam dificuldades de aprendizagem.
Contribution of natural gas for sustainable development in Portugal
Authors: Sarmento Manuela , Durão Diamantino
Published: May 2020

Portugal has strongly limited domestic energy resources, since imports almost 90% of its energy needs and its energy production is totally from renewable energy sources. The addition of natural gas to the Portuguese energy mix in 1997 helped to diversify Portugal’s energy sources and is a contribution to the mitigation of environmental problems. In 1997 also ceased the production and use of domestic coal. In fact, Portugal is working to reduce the growth in energy use and CO2 emissions, in order to follow the Kyoto Protocol. This measure can be linked to environmental sustainability policies, creating the opportunity for new business to appear. Natural gas, in some applications, can substitute the electricity, implying a decrease in price. Security of gas supply is an important issue, since Portugal depends mainly on a single supplier. This paper aims at analysing the emerging gas market, (threats and opportunities), its evolution andcomparison with other OECD countries.
O sistema Toyota de produção e o institucionalismo comunicativo
Authors: Callefi Jéssica Syrio , Crubellate João Marcelo
Published: May 2020

O Sistema Toyota de Produção (STP) vem sendo disseminado por todo o mundo, por sua filosofia de melhoria da produção e redução de desperdícios. Nota-se que, apesar dos esforços das organizações em se adequarem ao novo sistema, ainda não é possível implementá-lo completamente. Dentro deste contexto, este estudo tem o objetivo de compreender como a retórica de dentro das organizações contribui para a implantação do STP visto que existem diversos tipos de organizações com diferentes contextos culturais. A fim de aprofundar neste tema, utilizou-se o Institucionalismo Comunicativo, que apresenta os estudos sobre comunicação e retórica como maneiras de institucionalizar novas práticas. Conclui-se que, quando as retóricas de legitimação, manutenção e mudança institucional se orientam na mesma corrente da cultura organizacional em que se insere, esta mudança pode institucionalizar-se mais facilmente, trazendo novas práticas que beneficiem toda a organização.
EVALUATION OF POLYMORPHONUCLEAR IMMUNE CELLS IN BIOCOMPATIBILITY TEST DFLP SPONGE CARTILAGE SCAFFOLD, ADIPOSE DERIVED MSC AND SECRETOME WITH CARTILAGE INJECTION MODEL
Authors: Wirashada Brilliant Citra , Novemberi Utomo Dwikora , Widhiyanto Lukas
Published: May 2020

Background: In recent years, Freeze-Dried Scaffold Bovine Cartilage has been widely used as an alternative therapy for joint cartilage defects. This study aims to determine the biocompatibility of scaffold without involving implantation which provides clinical reports as expected through the evaluation of post-implantation chondrocytes regeneration, biocompatibility markers of the scaffold, and biocompatibility of sponge cartilage scaffold involving cartilage defects New Zealand White Rabbit.Methods: This experimental in-vivo study was conducted for four weeks. Rabbits were divided into 4 treatment groups: microfracture defect group with DFLP sponge cartilage scaffold (P1) implantation; Microfracture defect group with DFLP sponge cartilage scaffold-secretome implantation (P2); Microfracture defect group with DFLP sponge cartilage scaffold-adipose derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (ADMSCs) (P3); Microfracture defect group without implantation (control). The evaluations of basophil, eosinophil, neutrophil, and polymorphonuclear (PMN) cells were done in the first 24 hours, 3 days, and 1 week after the treatment. The collected data will be analyzed statistically.Results: Research observations performed three times in the first, third, and seventh days. The results showed a small number of average Neutrophil (Neutrophil granulated) and PMN (segmented Neutrophils) cells both in the P2 and P3 groups compared with the control and the P1 group.Conclusion: In general, biocompatibility is not included on the cytotoxic effects including inflammatory reactions and post-cartilage scaffold sponge implantation (DFLP) with or without the addition of ADMSC and secretome in the white rabbit New Zealand cartilage defect associated with differences seen in eosinophils, basophils, neutrophils, also total PMN cells in four groups.
REPAIR OF SCIATIC NERVE LESION AUGMENTED WITH AMNION MEMBRANE COMPOSITE AND MESENCHYMAL STEM CELL
Authors: Suroto Heri , Mulyo Wibisono R. Taufan
Published: May 2020

Background: Peripheral nerve injuries (PNI) are quite common, with an incidence of 13.9% per 100,000 people per year. The most cause is direct penetrating trauma. PNI will cause a significant decrease in the quality of life of patients.Case: A 21-years-old woman complained of the inability to move her right leg and numbness. She had been injured in the of the right thigh due to broken glass. The patient underwent emergency surgery to repair the right Femoral artery and the Sciatic nerve.Discussion: After six months since the first operation, flail foot and anesthesia were persisting with a FADI score of 47.1. We decided to perform re-exploration, from the exploration we found neuroma on the sciatic nerve. Excision was performed on the Neuroma then an end-to-end anastomosis was performed on both sciatic nerve components (tibial and peroneal) and augmented using amniotic membrane composites and mesenchymal stem cells. After 6 months since the second surgery, the patient could perform ankle dorsal flexion. After 12 months postoperatively, the patient could move his right leg functionally, sensory function also improved. Patients can undergo daily activities without difficulty, with a FADI score of 96.2. Conclusion: There is a significant improvement in the patient's foot function after surgery using the method we used, more research is needed to optimize the use of amniotic membrane and mesenchymal stem cells as augmentation in nerve repair.
HUBUNGAN KEMOTERAPI DAN ASUPAN ENERGI DENGAN STATUS GIZI PASIEN KANKER PAYUDARA STADIUM II DAN III DI RSUP FATMAWATI JAKARTA PADA TAHUN 2018-2019
Relationship of Chemotherapy and Energy Intake with Nutritional Status of Breast Cancer Patients Stage II-III at Fatmawati General Hospital in 2018–2019

Authors: Hidayat Alfat , Purwani Luh Eka , Nugrohowati Nunuk
Published: May 2020

Breast cancer is the highest cause of death in women around the world. Common problems that arise in breast cancer patients is nutritional problems. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between chemotherapy, energy intake and nutritional status of stage II and III breast cancer patients at Fatmawati General Hospital in 2018-2019. The type of study was observational analytic with cross-sectional design on 34 breast cancer patients at Fatmawati General Hospital. The sample used purposive sampling technique by choosing patients who accomplish inclusion criterias including patients with compos mentis state, stage II and III, aged between 25–64 years old, have been taken chemotherapy without complication, outpatient, and agreed to be participant in this study. The exclusion criteria were patients with undernutrition before chemotherapy, received radiation and hormonal therapy, patients with severe infectious diseases (TBC and HIV/AIDS) and chronic diseases. The taken datas including nutritional status measured by Body Mass Index (BMI); chemotherapy status gained from medical record; and energy intake assessed by 3×24 hours food recall. The Chi-Square test showed there was no relationship between chemotherapy and nutritional status of breast cancer patients (p=1.000). However, there was a relationship between energy intake and nutritional status of breast cancer patients (p<0.05) with CI 95%, OR = 65.000 (4.905-861.448) which means that the patients with the intake of energy defi cit have 65 times bigger risk for malnutrition. The conclusion from this study is, there was a relationship between the energy intake with nutritional status of stage II and III breast cancer patients at Fatmawati General Hospital.
The Value of Direct Instruction for At-Risk Students
Authors: Butler Kevin
Published: May 2020

Students of color and low-income students are at a much higher risk of dropping out of school than more privileged students. Dropping out of school can lead to severe social issues -- students who drop out of school are much more likely to end up incarcerated and to remain unemployed for long periods of time. However, strong empirical research indicates that certain teaching methods are highly beneficial for the academic achievement of at-risk students in addition to being beneficial for the achievement of all students in general. These teaching methods are based around direct, teacher-centered instruction. In contrast, teaching methods based around minimally-guided instruction tend to be ineffective (or even detrimental) for at-risk students. This text outlines the benefits of direct instruction and the potential risks of minimally-guided instruction, along with specific steps for implementing effective teaching strategies.
Epidemiological Challenges in Pandemic Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19): Role of Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Dasgupta Abhijit , Bakshi Abhisek , Mukherjee Srijani , Das Kuntal , Talukdar Soumyajeet , Chatterjee Pratyayee , Mondal Sagnik , Das Puspita , Ghosh Subhrojit , Som Archisman , Roy Pritha , Kundu Rima , Sarkar Akash , Biswas Arnab , Paul Karnelia , Basak Sujit , Manna Krishnendu , Saha Chinmay , Mukhopadhyay Satinath , Bhattacharyya Nitai P. , De Rajat K.
Published: May 2020

World is now experiencing a major health calamity due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus clade 2 (SARS-CoV- 2). The foremost challenge facing the scientific community is to explore the growth and transmission capability of the virus. Use of artificial intelligence (AI), such as, deep learning, in (i) rapid disease detection from x-ray/computerized tomography (CT)/ high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) images, (ii) accurate prediction of the epidemic patterns and their saturation throughout the globe, (iii) identification of the epicenter in each country/state and forecasting the disease from social networking data, (iv) prediction of drug-protein interactions for repurposing the drugs, and (v) socio-economic impact and prediction of future relapses, has attracted much attention. In the present manuscript, we describe the role of various AI-based technologies for rapid and efficient detection from CT images complementing quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and immunodiagnostic assays. AI-based technologies to anticipate the current pandemic pattern, possibility of future relapses and socio-economic impact are also discussed. We inspect how the virus transmits depending on different factors, such as, population density and mobility among others. We depict how AI-based mobile app for contact tracing and surveys can prevent the transmission. A modified deep learning technique can assess affinity of the most probable drugs to treat COVID-19. Here a few effective antiviral drugs, such as, Geneticin, Avermectin B1, and Ancriviroc among others, have been reported with their appropriate validation from previous investigations.
Tachyonic Dirac Equation Revisited
Authors: Nanni Luca
Published: May 2020

In this paper, we revisit the two theoretical approaches for the formulation of the tachyonic Dirac equation. The first approach works within the theory of restricted relativity, starting from a Lorentz invariant Lagrangian consistent with a spacelike four-momentum. The second approach uses the theory of relativity extended to superluminal motions and works directly on the ordinary Dirac equation through superluminal Lorentz transformations. The equations resulting from the two approaches show mostly different, if not opposite, properties. In particular, the first equation violates the invariance under the action of the parity and charge conjugation operations. Although it is a good mathematical tool to describe the dynamics of a space-like particle, it also shows that the mean particle velocity is subluminal. In contrast, the second equation is invariant under the action of parity and charge conjugation symmetries, but the particle it describes is consistent with the classical dynamics of a tachyon. This study shows that it is not possible with the currently available theories to formulate a covariant equation that coherently describes the neutrino in the framework of the physics of tachyons, and depending on the experiment, one equation rather than the other should be used.
Impact of Border Enforcement Measures, Medical Resources, and Public Counter-Compliancy on the Global Spread of the Novel Covid-19: Two-Body Export-Importation Epidemic Dynamics
Authors: Kabir K M Ariful , Chowdhury Atiqur , Tanimoto Jun
Published: May 2020

In the wake of the novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-19, the world has undergone a critical situation in which grave threats to global public health emerged. Among human populations across the planet, travel restraints, border enforcement measures, quarantine, and isolation provisions were implemented in an attempt to control and limit the spread of the contagion. Decisions on how to implement and enforce various control policies should be determined based on available real-world evidence and theoretical prediction. In this study, we propose a novel exportation- importation epidemic model associated with the quarantine and hospitalized-isolation policies by considering the two-body system: a source country of a contagious disease and a neighboring country that is initially disease-free. The model is first applied to the original COVID-19 data in China, Italy, and the Republic of Korea (ROK) and observed through consistent fitting results with equivalent goodness-of-fit. Then, the data are estimated per the fitting parameters. Driven by these parametric settings and considering the normalized population, the numerical analysis, and epidemiological exploration, this work further elucidates the substantial impact of quarantine policies, healthcare facilities, and the public counter-compliance effect.
Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Movement Control Order to Limit the Spread of COVID-19
Authors: Amiruzzaman Md , Abdullah-Al-Wadud M. , Mohd Nor Rizal , A. Aziz Normaziah
Published: May 2020

This study presents a prediction model based on Logistic Growth Curve to evaluate the effectiveness of Movement Control Order (MCO) on COVID-19 pandemic spread. The evaluation assesses and predicts the growth models. The estimated model is a forecast-based model that depended on partial data from the COVID-19 cases in Malaysia. The model is then studied together with the effectiveness of the three phases of MCO implemented in Malaysia. Evidence from this study suggests that results of the LGC prediction model match with the progress and effectiveness of the MCO to flatten the curve, thus helped to control the spike in number of active COVID-19 cases and spread of COVID-19 infection growth.
Horizon Radius of Spacetime Curvature
Authors: Al-Fadhli Mohammed
Published: May 2020

The necessity of the dark energy and dark matter in the present universe could be a consequence of the antimatter elimination assumption in the early universe. In this research, I derive a new model to obtain the potential cosmic topology and the horizon radius of spacetime curvature utilising a new construal of the geometry of space inspired by large-angle correlations of the cosmic microwave background (CMB). I utilise the Big Bounce theory to tune the initial conditions of the curvature density, and to avoid the Big Bang singularity and inflationary constraints. The mathematical derivation of a positively curved universe governed by only gravity revealed horizon solutions. Although the positive horizon is conventionally associated with the evolution of the matter universe, the negative horizon solution could imply additional evolution in the opposite direction. This possibly suggests that the matter and antimatter could be evolving in opposite directions as distinct sides of the universe such as visualised Sloan Digital Sky Survey Data. Using this model, we found a decelerated stage of expansion during the first 10 Gyr, which is followed by a second stage of accelerated expansion; potentially matching the tension in Hubble parameter measurements. In addition, the model predicts a final time-reversal stage of spatial contraction leading to the Big Crunch of a cyclic universe. The predicted density is 1.14. Other predictions are (1) a calculable flow rate of the matter side towards the antimatter side at the accelerated stage; conceivably explaining the dark flow observation, (2) a time-dependent spacetime curvature over horizon evolution, which could influence the galactic rotational speed; possibly explaining the high speed of stars, and (3) evolvable spacetime internal voids at the accelerated stage, which could contribute in continuously increasing the matter and antimatter densities elsewhere in both sides respectively. These findings may indicate the existence of the antimatter as a distinct side, which influences the evolution of the universe instead of the dark energy or dark matter.
Outcomes Comparison of SpCas9- and LbCas12a-mediated DNA Editing in Zebrafish Embryos
Authors: Meshalkina Darya , Glushchenko Aleksei , Kysil Elana , Mizgirev Igor , Frolov Andrej
Published: May 2020

CRISPR/Cas genome editing is a widely used research technology. Its simplest variant is gene knockout resulting from reparation errors after introduction of dsDNA breaks by Cas nuclease. We compared the outcomes of the break repair by two commonly used nucleases (SpCas9 and LbCas12a) in zebrafish embryos to reveal if application of one nuclease is advantageous in comparison to the other. To address this question, we injected ribonucleoprotein complexes of nucleases and corresponding guide RNAs in zebrafish zygotes and three days later sequenced the target gene regions. We found that LbCas12a breaks resulted in longer deletions and more rare inserts, in comparison to those generated by SpCas9, while the editing efficiencies of both nucleases were the same. On the other hand, overlapping protospacers were shown to lead to similarities in repair outcome, although they were cut by two different nucleases. Thus, our results indicate that the repair outcome depends both on the nuclease mode of action and on protospacer sequence.
COVID-19 Pandemic: Insights into Structure, Function, and hACE2 Receptor Recognition by the SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Mittal Anshumali , Manjunath Kavyashree , Ranjan Rajesh Kumar , Kaushik Sandeep , Kumar Sujeet , Verma Vikash
Published: May 2020

SARS-CoV-2 is a newly emerging, highly transmissible, and pathogenic coronavirus in humans, which has caused global public health emergency and economic crisis. To date, millions of infections and thousands of deaths have been reported worldwide, and the numbers continue to rise. Currently, there is no specific drug or vaccine against this deadly virus; therefore, there is a pressing need to understand the mechanism through which this deadly virus enters the host cell. Viral entry into the host cell is a multistep process in which SARS-CoV-2 utilizes the receptor binding domain of the spike glycoprotein (S) to recognize ACE2 receptors on the human cells; this initiates the host cell entry by promoting the viral-host cell membrane fusion through large scale conformational changes in the S protein. Receptor recognition and fusion are critical and essential steps of viral infections and are key determinants of the viral host range and cross-species transmission. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the origin and evolution of SARS-CoV-2, roles of key viral factors and discuss the receptor recognition mechanisms of coronaviruses. We provide a comparative analysis of the SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 S proteins, receptor-binding specificity, and discuss the differences in their antigenicity based on biophysical and structural characteristics. Finally, we dive into available medications, and the current COVID-19 treatment options, which will be beneficial for the scientific community as well as for the general public.
Pre-lesson assignments and formative assessment strategies with interactive invention instruction on low achievers in physics
Authors: Ukoh Edidiong Enyeneokpon , Onifade Sunday Adeyemi
Published: May 2020

This study examined the impacts of Interactive–Invention Instruction with Pre-Lesson Assignments (PLA) and Weekly Formative Tests Assessment Strategies (WFTAS) on students with low achievement in Physics in Ibadan, Nigeria. Pre-test post-test quasi-experimental research design and ninety Senior Secondary II students participated in the study. Two experimental groups and control were taught using Interactive-invention instruction, in addition, experimental group (1) was exposed to PLA while group (2) was exposed to WFTAS but the control group was only taught with interactive-invention instruction. Physics Achievement Test (r=0.89) and three teachers guides were instru-ments used while analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used to analyse the data. The treatments had significant main effect on low achieving students’ achievements in physics (F(2,75) =9.205; p<0.05, partial η2 = 0.197). Low achieving students exposed to the treat-ments obtained a higher post-test mean score of 14.10 for PLA, 16.02 for WFTAS, than those exposed to Interactive-invention instruction only 11.47. It was therefore concluded that the pre-lesson assignments and weekly formative tests assessment strategies improv-ed the performance of low achieving students in physics. It was recommended that teach-ers identify students with low achievement early and inter-twine their chosen instructio-nal strategies with Pre-Lesson Assignment and Weekly Formative Test Assignment.
Landslide reactivation susceptibility modeling in Iași Municipality
Authors: Nicușor NECULA , Mihai NICULIȚĂ
Published: May 2020

Iași Municipality as other urban areas around the world has a long history of landslide activity which needs to be studied considering the urban sprawl. We performed a first landslide susceptibility modeling for Iași Municipality based on the AHP method using weights given by expert judgements regarding the influence of preparatory and conditional landslides factors (slope, ruggedness, lithology, historic landslide density and hydrogeology) and weights given by the historic landslide density over the factors. The landslide inventory was performed based on LiDAR data and aerial imagery using the geomorphological mapping of landslide elements. Using the landslide probability density function we have shown that the landslide inventory is valid and we have selected 411 landslides considered recent to be used for the validation. The resulted susceptibility show that the most susceptible to landslide reactivations are the hillslopes of cuesta hills with relict and old landslides, especially at the main scarp. Recent landslides are mainly scarp slumps or landslide body translational reactivations. The validation showed that almost 70% of recent landslides are located on high susceptibility areas. Future work to improve the susceptibility and extend it to hazard modeling is needed considering the long history of landslide reactivations from Iași Municipality and the slow evolution of old landslides like in Țicău neighborhoods.
Fuzzy modelling of slope erosion by runoff. Case study in Corinth basin, Greece
Authors: EVELPIDOU Niki , GOURNELOS Theodoros , KARDARA Eirini , KARKANI Anna
Published: May 2020

This research applies the fuzzy set theory via Geographical Information Systems (GIS) – based analysis, in order to model slope erosion by runoff. For this purpose, the following steps were accomplished: definition of input variables (rocks’ susceptibility to erosion, slope inclination, slope morphology), development of a fuzzy inference system based on theoretical and empirical knowledge, transformation of input to output variables (erosion – deposition) and visualization of the output variables (spatial distribution of erosion–deposition processes). The method was applied on the drainage basin of Corinth, located in the north–eastern part of Peloponnese (Greece), where a series of catastrophic erosional events have recently occurred.
Recognition of erosion risk areas using Neural Network Technology: an application to the Island of Corfu
Authors: GOURNELOS Theodoros , EVELPIDOU Niki , KARKANI Anna , KARDARA Eirini
Published: May 2020

There is a wide range of alternative approaches to study erosion processes. In this paper, we describe the construction of a model based on the interaction of Geographical Information System (GIS) and Artificial Neural Networks (ANN). The neural model uses supervised competitive learning process. The whole process begins with the digitization of collected data and the definition of the input variables, such as slope form and gradient, susceptibility to erosion and protective cover. The input variables are transformed into the erosion risk output variable using the neural model. The last stage is the development of a map of erosion risk zones. As a case study the island of Corfu (Ionian Sea, Greece) was chosen, which consists of lithologies very vulnerable to erosion and receives considerable amounts of rainfall, especially in comparison to the rest of Greece. Finally, the whole model was validated and its proper function was confirmed by field data observations.
Custo-efetividade de mirabegrona no tratamento de primeira escolha da síndrome da bexiga hiperativa: uma análise sob a perspectiva do sistema de saúde brasileiro
Authors: Gomes Cristiano , Vita Ricardo , Cintra Caio , Gonçalves Sarah , Soler Roberto
Published: May 2020

Objetivo: Avaliar a relação de custo-efetividade de mirabegrona como tratamento de primeira escolha de pacientes adultos com síndrome da bexiga hiperativa (SBH) comparada a antimuscarínicos orais comumente prescritos no manejo dessa condição. Métodos: O modelo de Markov foi utilizado, com ciclos mensais e horizonte temporal de um ano, para analisar a relação de custo-efetividade de mirabegrona em comparação a tolterodina, oxibutinina, darifenacina e solifenacina. Os pacientes iniciaram o modelo em tratamento com mirabegrona ou um dos comparadores, sendo distribuídos em cinco níveis de gravidade da doença, de acordo com a frequência miccional e número de episódios de incontinência, e a cada ciclo mensal poderiam melhorar, piorar ou permanecer no mesmo nível de severidade do ciclo anterior. Os resultados foram apresentados por meio de uma razão de custo-efetividade incremental. Resultados: Considerando a perspectiva do sistema de saúde suplementar, o custo total do tratamento com mirabegrona foi de R$ 2.455,26 e os parâmetros de efetividade em 0,491 e 0,498 (melhora na gravidade da incontinência e frequência miccional, respectivamente), sendo mais efetivo que os comparadores. Com relação à perspectiva pública, foi estimado um custo com o tratamento de R$ 1.396,01, com características similares de efetividade. De maneira geral, o tratamento com mirabegrona foi dominante quando comparado à tolterodina e custo-efetivo na comparação com os demais antimuscarínicos, em ambas as perspectivas analisadas. Conclusão: Mirabegrona demonstrou ser a melhor opção para tratamento de primeira escolha da SBH com potencial de redução de custos ao longo do tempo, tanto para o sistema público quanto para o sistema de saúde suplementar brasileiro.
Custo direto da judicialização dos sistemas de infusão contínua de insulina (Sici) no município do Rio de Janeiro
Authors: Telheiro Viviane , Veras Bruna , Saturnino Luciana
Published: May 2020

Objetivo: Estimar o custo direto anual da judicialização dos sistemas de infusão contínua de insulina (Sici), no município do Rio de Janeiro, entre 2015 e 2017, e analisar as características dos processos relacionados à referida tecnologia. Métodos: Estudo transversal descritivo que analisou os pareceres técnicos emitidos pelo Núcleo de Assessoria Técnica em Ações de Saúde e os respectivos processos judiciais. As informações relacionadas aos custos foram provenientes do relatório de solicitação de empenho da Central de Atendimento às Demandas Judiciais do Estado do Rio de Janeiro e de orçamentos fornecidos pelos fabricantes/distribuidores. Resultados: Foram avaliados 189 processos emitidos. A média de idade dos autores dos processos foi de 25,1 anos e 57,1% eram do sexo feminino. Em 98 casos (51,9%), o documento utilizado no processo foi proveniente de médicos da rede pública de saúde. O juiz deferiu o pleito em 153 processos (80,9%). De um total de 75 médicos prescritores, nove foram responsáveis por 43,9% das prescrições, demonstrando uma concentração das prescrições em determinados profissionais. O valor estimado de custo direto acumulado (2015- 2017) decorrente da judicialização dos Sici, no município do Rio de Janeiro, corresponde a R$ 6,9 milhões, o que representa 6,7% dos gastos de judicialização da saúde no mesmo período. Conclusão: Considerando que a tecnologia analisada é recorrentemente judicializada, os dados coletados podem gerar informações úteis para os gestores governamentais da área da saúde, na avaliação da eficiência na alocação dos recursos públicos, para os profissionais que trabalham na assistência judiciária e para os juízes.
Application of the critical incident technique in refining a realist initial programme theory
Authors: Cunningham Una , De Brún Aoife , McAuliffe Eilish
Published: May 2020

Background: As realist methodology is still evolving, there is a paucity of guidance on how to conduct theory driven interviews. Realist researchers can therefore struggle to collect interview data that can make a meaningful contribution to refining their initial programme theory. Collecting data to inform realist IPTs in healthcare contexts is further compounded due to the healthcare workers’ busy work schedules. In this case study of team interventions in acute hospital contexts, we explore the benefits of using the Critical Incident Technique (CIT) in order to build and refine an initial programme theory. We contend that use of the CIT helps to draw on more specific experiences of “Key Informants” and therefore elicits richer and more relevant data for realist enquiry. Methods : The five steps of the CIT were mapped against realist methods guidance and adapted into an interview framework. Specifications to identify an incident as “critical” were agreed. Probes were embedded in the interview framework to confirm, refine and/or refute previous theories. Seventeen participants were interviewed and recordings were transcribed and imported for analysis into NVivo software. Using RAMESES guidelines, Context-Mechanism-Outcomes configurations were extrapolated from a total of 31 incidents. Results: We found that the CIT facilitated construction of an interview format that allowed participants to reflect on specific experiences of interest. We demonstrate how the CIT strengthened initial programme theory development as it facilitated the reporting of the specifics of team interventions and the contexts and mechanisms characteristic of those experiences. As new data emerged, it was possible to evolve previous theories synthesised from the literature as well as to explore new theories. Conclusions: Utilising a CIT framework paid dividends in terms of the relevance and usefulness of the data for refining the initial programme theory. Adapting the CIT questioning technique helped to focus the participants on the specifics relating to an incident allowing the interviewers to concentrate on probes to explore theories during the interview process. The CIT interview format therefore achieved its purpose and can be adapted for use within realist methodology
A high dietary fiber randomized clinical trial reduces gestational weight gain, fat accrual, and postpartum weight retention
Authors: Hull Holly R. , Herman Amy , Gibbs Heather , Gajewski Byron , Krase Kelli , Carlson Susan E. , Sullivan Debra K. , Goetz Jeannine
Published: May 2020

Background: Interventions to prevent excessive gestational weight gain (GWG) have had limited success This pilot study examined the effectiveness of a single goal (SG) high dietary fiber intervention to prevent excessive GWG. Methods: Twelve weekly lessons focused on consuming a high fiber diet (≥30 g/day). Snacks containing 10-12 g of dietary fiber were given for the first six weeks only. Body composition was measured at baseline and at the end of the intervention. At one-year postpartum, body weight retention and dietary practices were assessed. A p-value is reported for the primary analysis only. For all other comparisons, Cohen’s d is reported to indicate effect size. Results: The SG group increased fiber intake during the study (32 g/day at 6 weeks, 27 g/day at 12 weeks), whereas the UC group did not (~17 g/day). No differences were found for the proportion of women classified as excessive gainers (p=0.13). During the intervention, the SG group gained less body weight (-4.1 kg) and less fat mass (-2.8 kg) (d=1.3). At one year postpartum, the SG group retained less weight (0.35 vs. 4.4 kg, respectively; d=1.8), and reported trying to currently eat high fiber foods.Conclusion: The SG intervention resulted in less weight gain, fat accrual, and weight retention at one year postpartum. A residual intervention effect was detected postpartum with the participants reporting continued efforts to consume a high fiber diet. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03984630; Trial registered June 13, 2019 (retrospectively registered)