bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Review of Filter Strip Performance and Function for Improving Water Quality from Agricultural Lands
Authors: Douglas-Mankin Kyle R. , Helmers Matthew J. , Harmel R. Daren
Published: April 2021

Highlights

Filter strip processes for water pollutant reductions were quantified from 74 studies with almost 300 data points.

Regression was significant versus width (sediment, N, P), area ratio (sediment, atrazine), and Ks (N, P, atrazine, alachlor).

This review discusses ten functional factors affecting FS efficiency as well as FS monitoring recommendations.

Cost-effectiveness was assessed and varies considerably by influent load and treatment effectiveness.

Abstract. Filter strips (FSs) are edge-of-field conservation practices commonly implemented to reduce flux of sediment, nutrients, and other constituents from agricultural fields. While various aspects of FS effectiveness have been reviewed, this study provides a comprehensive summary of FS efficiency data for sediment, nutrients, pesticides, and pathogens as part of a special collection focused on agricultural conservation practices. This analysis also fills an important gap by assessing performance-based FS costs and cost-effectiveness. Data from 74 U.S. and international studies with 294 different treatments and 3,050 replications were compiled and analyzed. Results showed that runoff reduction tended to increase with increasing FS width up to about 15 m and that sediment reduction was significantly related to the ratio of FS area to drainage area and to FS width, with reduction tending to increase with increasing width up to about 20 m. Total P reduction was significantly related to FS soil saturated hydraulic conductivity, and total N reduction was significantly related to both saturated hydraulic conductivity and width. Total P and total N reductions both tended to increase with increasing FS width up to about 20 m and with increasing FS slope up to about 10%. Annualized FS costs were estimated to range from $314 to $865 ha-1 year-1 for different FS implementations. A major component of the cost is the opportunity cost of taking land out of production. Costs per unit of sediment retained by FS systems ranged from $10.3 to $18.6 Mg-1. A comprehensive assessment of FS cost-effectiveness (cost:benefit) is needed. Monitoring equipment, approaches, and recommendations are discussed, acknowledging the challenges of implementing field-scale FS studies. This information is critical to guide on-farm and programmatic FS decisions and to increase the scientific understanding of this commonly used agricultural conservation practice. Keywords: Best management practice, Buffer strip, Nonpoint-source pollution, Riparian buffer, Vegetated filter strip.
Quantification of intermittent retinal capillary perfusion in sickle cell disease
Authors: Zhou Davis B. , Castanos Maria V. , Pinhas Alexander , Gillette Peter , Migacz Justin V. , Rosen Richard B. , Glassberg Jeffrey , Chui Toco Y. P.
Published: April 2021

Pathophysiology of sickle cell disease (SCD) features intermittent
vaso-occlusion of microcirculatory networks that facilitate ischemic
damage. Past research has, however, relied on static images to
characterize this active disease state. This study develops imaging
metrics to more fully capture dynamic vascular changes, quantifying
intermittent retinal capillary perfusion in unaffected controls and
SCD patients using sequential optical coherence tomography angiography
(OCT-A) scans. The results reveal significant dynamic variation of
capillary perfusion in SCD patients compared to controls. This
measurement of vaso-occlusive burden in patients would provide utility
in monitoring of the disease state and in evaluating treatment
efficacy.
Accurate quantitative phase imaging by the transport of intensity equation: a mixed-transfer-function approach: erratum
Authors: Lu Linpeng , Fan Yao , Sun Jiasong , Zhang Jialin , Wu Xuejuan , Chen Qian , Zuo Chao
Published: April 2021

In this erratum, we correct Fig. 4 of our Letter [Opt. Lett.
46, 1740 (2021)OPLEDP0146-959210.1364/OL.422095]. This
does not change the scientific conclusions of the original Letter.
Identification and classification of innexin gene transcripts in the central nervous system of the terrestrial slug Limax valentianus
Authors: Sadamoto Hisayo , Takahashi Hironobu , Kobayashi Suguru , Kondoh Hirooki , Tokumaru Hiroshi
Published: April 2021

Intercellular gap junction channels and single-membrane channels have been reported to regulate electrical synapse and the brain function. Innexin is known as a gap junction-related protein in invertebrates and is involved in the formation of intercellular gap junction channels and single-cell membrane channels. Multiple isoforms of innexin protein in each species enable the precise regulation of channel function. In molluscan species, sequence information of innexins is still limited and the sequences of multiple innexin isoforms have not been classified. This study examined the innexin transcripts expressed in the central nervous system of the terrestrial slugLimax valentianusand identified 16 transcripts of 12 innexin isoforms, including the splicing variants. We performed phylogenetic analysis and classified the isoforms with other molluscan innexin sequences. Next, the phosphorylation, N-glycosylation, and S-nitrosylation sites were predicted to characterize the innexin isoforms. Further, we identified 16 circular RNA sequences of nine innexin isoforms in the central nervous system ofLimax. The identification and classification of molluscan innexin isoforms provided novel insights for understanding the regulatory mechanism of innexin in this phylum.
Modeling changes in baleen whale seasonal abundance, timing of migration, and environmental variables to explain the sudden rise in entanglements in California
Authors: Ingman Kaytlin , Hines Ellen , Mazzini Piero L. F. , Rockwood R. Cotton , Nur Nadav , Jahncke Jaime
Published: April 2021

We document changes in the number of sightings and timing of humpback (Megaptera novaeangliae), blue (Balaenoptera musculus), and gray (Eschrichtius robustus) whale migratory phases in the vicinity of the Farallon Islands, California. We hypothesized that changes in the timing of migration off central California were driven by local oceanography, regional upwelling, and basin-scale climate conditions. Using 24 years of daily whale counts collected from Southeast Farallon Island, we developed negative binomial regression models to evaluate trends in local whale sightings over time. We then used linear models to assess trends in the timing of migration, and to identify potential environmental drivers. These drivers included local, regional and basin-scale patterns; the latter included the El Niño Southern Oscillation, the Pacific Decadal Oscillation, and the North Pacific Gyre Oscillation, which influence, wind-driven upwelling, and overall productivity in the California Current System. We then created a forecast model to predict the timing of migration. Humpback whale sightings significantly increased over the study period, but blue and gray whale counts did not, though there was variability across the time series. Date of breeding migration (departure) for all species showed little to no change, whereas date of migration towards feeding areas (arrival) occurred earlier for humpback and blue whales. Timing was significantly influenced by a mix of local oceanography, regional, and basin-scale climate variables. Earlier arrival time without concomitant earlier departure time results in longer periods when blue and humpback whales are at risk of entanglement in the Gulf of the Farallones. We maintain that these changes have increased whale exposure to pot and trap fishery gear off the central California coast during the spring, elevating the risk of entanglements. Humpback entanglement rates were significantly associated with increased counts and early arrival in central California. Actions to decrease the temporal overlap between whales and pot/trap fishing gear, particularly when whales arrive earlier in warm water years, would likely decrease the risk of entanglements.
Ubiquitous digital technologies and spatial structure; an update
Authors: Tranos Emmanouil , Ioannides Yannis M.
Published: April 2021

This paper examines the impact of widespread adoption of information and communication technologies (ICT) on urban structure worldwide. Has it offset agglomeration benefits and led to more dispersed spatial structures, or has it strengthened urban externalities and thus resulted in more concentrated spatial structures? Theoretical and empirical studies on this question have produced contradictory findings. The present study recognizes that assumptions made earlier about the evolution of technological capabilities do not necessarily hold today. As cutting-edge digital technologies have matured considerably, a fresh look at this question is called for. The paper addresses this issue by means of several data sets using instrumental variable methods. One is the UN data on Urban Settlements with more than 300, 000 inhabitants. Estimation methods with these data show that increased adoption of ICT has resulted in national urban systems that are less uniform in terms of city sizes and are characterized by higher population concentrations in larger cities, when concentration is proxied the Pareto (Zipf) coefficient for national city size distributions. Two, is disaggregated data for the urban systems of the US, defined as Micropolitan and Metropolitan Areas, and for the UK, defined as Built-up Areas in England and Wales, respectively. These data allow for the impacts to be studied for cities smaller than those included in the cross-country data. Increased internet usage improved a city’s ranking in the US urban system. Similarly, increased download speed improves a built-up area’s ranking in England and Wales.
Examining the mental health outcomes of school-based peer-led interventions on young people: A scoping review of range and a systematic review of effectiveness
Authors: King Thomas , Fazel Mina
Published: April 2021

Schools worldwide have implemented many different peer-led interventions with mixed results, but the evidence base on their effectiveness as mental health interventions remains limited. This study combines a scoping review and systematic review to map the variations of peer-led interventions in schools and to evaluate the quality of the existing evidence base. This scoping review and systematic review evaluated the existing literature across 11 academic databases. Studies were included if they reported a peer-led intervention that aimed to address a mental health or wellbeing issue using a peer from the same school setting. Data were extracted from published and unpublished reports and presented as a narrative synthesis. 54 studies met eligibility criteria for the scoping review, showing that peer-led interventions have been used to address a range of mental health and wellbeing issues globally. 11 studies met eligibility criteria for the systematic review with a total of 2,239 participants eligible for analysis (929 peer leaders; 1,310 peer recipients). Two studies out of seven that looked at peer leaders showed significant improvements in self-esteem and social stress, with one study showing an increase in guilt. Two studies out of five that looked at peer recipient outcomes showed significant improvements in self-confidence and in a quality of life measure, with one study showing an increase in learning stress and a decrease in overall mental health scores. The findings from these reviews show that despite widespread use of peer-led interventions, the evidence base for mental health outcomes is sparse. There appear to be better documented benefits of participation for those who are chosen and trained to be a peer leader, than for recipients. However, the small number of included studies means any conclusions about effectiveness are tentative.
Exploring the risk of hypospadias in children born from mothers living close to a vineyard
Authors: Bougnères Pierre , Porcher Raphael , Esterle Laure , Baker David , de la Vaissière Adrien , Meurisse Sofia , Valtat Sophie , Castell Anne-Laure , Mouriquand Pierre , Valleron Alain-Jacques
Published: April 2021

Hypospadias (H) is a common birth defect affecting the male urinary tract. It has been suggested that exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals might increase the risk of H by altering urethral development. However, whether H risk is increased in places heavily exposed to agricultural pesticides, such as vineyards, remains debated and difficult to ascertain. The objective of the work is to test the possible association of H with residential proximity to vineyards. Residential address at birth of 8,766 H cases born 1980–2011 was taken from 17 specialized surgery centers. The geographical distribution of vineyards was obtained from the European Land Parcel Identification System (LPIS) and the distance of address to the nearest vineyard was computed. A first estimate of the variation of H relative risk with distance to vineyards was obtained using as controls 13,105 cryptorchidism (C) cases operated during the same period in the same centers. A separate estimate was obtained from a case-control study using “virtual controls” (VC) defined as points of the map sampled to match the demographic distribution of births within the recruitment territories of the study centers. Non-exposed patients were defined as those with a residence between 5,000 and 10,000 m from the closest vineyard. The residential distance to vineyard was smaller for H than for C cases (p<10−4). We found 42/8766 H cases (0.48%) and 50/13,105 C cases (0.38%) born to mothers living within 20 m of a vineyard. The odds ratios for H were 2.48 (CI: 1.0 to 5.1) and 2.4 (CI: 1.3 to 4.4), vs C or vs VC, respectively, when pregnant mothers lived 10–20 m from a vineyard. In conclusion, our study supports that children born to mothers living close to a vineyard have a two-fold increased risk of H. For environmental research, the use of VC provides an alternative to classical case control technique.
Structural and thermodynamic analysis of factors governing the stability and thermal folding/unfolding of SazCA
Authors: Kumar Shashi , Deshpande Parag A.
Published: April 2021

Molecular basis of protein stability at different temperatures is a fundamental problem in protein science that is substantially far from being accurately and quantitatively solved as it requires an explicit knowledge of the temperature dependence of folding free energy of amino acid residues. In the present study, we attempted to gain insights into the thermodynamic stability of SazCA and its implications on protein folding/unfolding. We report molecular dynamics simulations of water solvated SazCA in a temperature range of 293-393 K to study the relationship between the thermostability and flexibility. Our structural analysis shows that the protein maintains the highest structural stability at 353 K and the protein conformations are highly flexible at temperatures above 353 K. Larger exposure of hydrophobic surface residues to the solvent medium for conformations beyond 353 K were identified from H-bond analysis. Higher number of secondary structure contents exhibited by SazCA at 353 K corroborated the conformations at 353 K to exhibit the highest thermal stability. The analysis of thermodynamics of protein stability revealed that the conformations that denature at higher melting temperatures tend to have greater maximum thermal stability. Our analysis shows that 353 K conformations have the highest melting temperature, which was found to be close to the experimental optimum temperature. The enhanced protein stability at 353 K due the least value of heat capacity at unfolding suggested an increase in folding. Comparative Gibbs free energy analysis and funnel shaped energy landscape confirmed a transition in folding/unfolding pathway of SazCA at 353 K.
Novel anatomical apical dissection utilizing puboprostatic “open-collar” technique: Impact on apical surgical margin and early continence recovery
Authors: Koga Fumitaka , Ito Masaya , Kataoka Madoka , Fukushima Hiroshi , Nakanishi Yasukazu , Takemura Kosuke , Suzuki Hiroaki , Sakamoto Kazumasa , Kobayashi Shuichiro , Tobisu Ken-ichi
Published: April 2021

Purpose

To evaluate the impact of modifications to anatomical apical dissection including a puboprostatic open-collar technique, which visualizes the lateral aspect of the apex and dorsal vein complex (DVC) covering the rhabdosphincter while preserving the puboprostatic collar, on positive surgical margin (PSM) and continence recovery.

Methods

One-hundred-and-sixty-seven patients underwent gasless single-port retroperitoneoscopic radical prostatectomy using a three-dimensional head-mounted display system. Sequentially modified surgical techniques comprised puboprostatic open-collar technique, sutureless transection of the DVC, retrograde urethral dissection, and anterior reconstruction. The associations of these modifications with PSM and continence recovery were assessed.

Results

The puboprostatic open-collar technique, sutureless DVC transection, and retrograde urethral dissection were significantly associated with lower apical PSM (P = 0.003, 0.003, and 0.010, respectively). The former two also showed similar associations in 84 patients with anterior apical tumor (P = 0.021 and 0.030, respectively). Among 92 patients undergoing all of these three procedures, overall and apical PSM rates were 13.0% and 3.3%, respectively. Retrograde urethral dissection (odds ratio [OR] 2.73, P = 0.004) together with nerve sparing (OR 2.77, P = 0.003) and anterior apical tumor (OR 0.45, P = 0.017) were independently associated with immediate continence recovery. A multivariable model for 3-month continence recovery included anterior apical tumor (OR 0.28, P = 0.003) and puboprostatic open-collar technique (OR 3.42, P = 0.062). Immediate and 3-month continence recovery rates were 56.3% and 85.4%, respectively, in 103 patients undergoing both the puboprostatic open-collar technique and retrograde urethral dissection.

Conclusion

Novel anatomical apical dissection utilizing a puboprostatic open-collar technique may favorably impact on both apical surgical margin and continence recovery.
Prognostic value of serial neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio measurements in hospitalized community-acquired pneumonia
Authors: Lee Heock , Kim Insu , Kang Bo Hyoung , Um Soo-Jung
Published: April 2021

Introduction

Several serum inflammatory markers are associated with poor clinical outcomes in community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). However, the prognosis and early treatment response in hospitalized CAP patients based on serial neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) measurement has never been investigated.

Methods

We performed a retrospective observational study for 175 consecutive patients hospitalized with CAP between February 2016 and February 2018. NLR, C-reactive protein (CRP) and procalcitonin levels were measured on admission day (D1) and on hospital day 4 (D4). The Pneumonia Severity Index (PSI) was also assessed on admission. The primary endpoint was all-cause death within 30 days after admission. The secondary endpoint was early treatment response such as intensive care unit (ICU) admission during hospitalization and clinical unstability on day 4.

Results

The 30-day mortality rate was 9.7%. In multivariate analysis, NLR D4 (OR: 1.11; 95% CI: 1.04–1.18; P = 0.003) and its incremental change (NLR D4/D1 >1) (OR: 7.10; 95% CI: 2.19–23.06; P = 0.001) were significant predictors of 30-day mortality. NLR D4 and its incremental change were significant predictors of ICU admission and clinical unstability on day 4 in multivariate analyses. Adding of incremental NLR change significantly improved the prognostic ability of the PSI. The additive value of incremental NLR change for the prognostic ability of the PSI was larger than that of incremental CRP change.

Conclusion

Serial NLR measurement represents useful laboratory tool to predict the prognosis and early treatment response of hospitalized CAP patients.
Rosuvastatin revert memory impairment and anxiogenic-like effect in mice infected with the chronic ME-49 strain of Toxoplasma gondii
Authors: Evangelista Fernanda Ferreira , Costa-Ferreira Willian , Mantelo Francini Martini , Beletini Lucimara Fátima , de Souza Amanda Hinobu , de Laet Sant’Ana Priscilla , de Lima Keller Karla , Crestani Carlos Cesar , Falavigna-Guilherme Ana Lúcia
Published: April 2021

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of rosuvastatin treatment on memory impairment, and anxiogenic-like effects in mice chronically infected with Toxoplasma gondii. For this, Balb/c mice were infected orally with chronic ME-49 strain of Toxoplasma gondii. Oral treatment with rosuvastatin (40mg/kg/day) started on the 51st day post-infection and was performed daily for 21 days. After completion of treatment, anxiety-like effects and locomotion were investigated in the open field (OF) test, whereas novel object recognition (NOR) test was used for evaluation of short- and long-term memory. At the end of the experiments, the brain was collected for Toxoplasma gondii DNA quantification and histopathological analysis. Infection with ME-49 strain decreased the time spent in the center of OF, indicating an anxiogenic effect, without affecting total and peripheral locomotion. Rosuvastatin treatment inhibited the change in the center time. Besides, pharmacological treatment increased total and central locomotion in both non-infected and infected animals. Infection also impaired both short- and long-term memory in the NOR test, and these effects were reverted by rosuvastatin treatment. In addition to effects in behavioral changes, rosuvastatin also reduced parasite load in the brain and attenuated signs of brain inflammation such as perivascular cuffs, inflammatory cell infiltration and tissue damage. These findings indicate for the first time the efficacy of rosuvastatin in treatment of memory impairment and anxiogenic effect evoked by infection with Toxoplasma gondii. These effects might be mediated by reduced cyst load, which in turn decrease inflammation and damage in the brain.
Insight into resident burnout, mental wellness, and coping mechanisms early in the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Zoorob Dani , Shah Shivam , La Saevig Danielle , Murphy Courtney , Aouthmany Shaza , Brickman Kris
Published: April 2021

Background

Acute augmentation of stress and disruption of training, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic, may impact resident wellbeing.

Objectives

We investigated how residents in various specialties in the United States were impacted by COVID-19 on mental wellbeing and resilience levels, and the methodology for coping with the stress incurred.

Methods

In April 2020, the authors electronically surveyed 200 residency programs of all specialties nationally. The survey utilized two validated questionnaires to assess wellbeing and resilience, while investigating demographics and coping mechanisms. The authors used student t-test and ANOVA to quantitatively analyze the data.

Results

The sample consisted of 1115 respondents (with an 18% response rate). Male gender & Age >39 years were associated with more favorable average well-being indices (both p<0.01). Regarding resources, institutional support (IS) appeared favorable for resident well-being (IS 2.74, SD1.96 vs NoIS 3.71, SD2.29, p<0.01) & resilience (IS 3.72, SD0.70 vs NoIS 3.53, SD0.73, p = 0.05). The effects of mindfulness practices (MP) were not statistically significant for improvement of wellness (MP 2.87, SD 1.99 vs No MP 2.76, SD 2.15, p = 0.85) or resilience (MP 3.71, SD 0.70 vs No MP 3.72, SD 0.68, p = 0.87).

Conclusions

Findings highlight the critical importance of resident mental status in cases of augmented stress situations. Institutional support may contribute to promotion of resident wellbeing.
Association between social determinants of health and direct economic burden on middle-aged and elderly individuals living with diabetes in China
Authors: Guo Jianwei , Wu Yun , Deng Xinlei , Liu Zifeng , Chen Lijin , Huang Yixiang
Published: April 2021

Aims

The aim of this study was to determine the association between social determinants of health and direct economic burden on Chinese middle-aged and elderly individuals living with diabetes in China.

Methods

This study used data from the baseline wave of The China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) database, covering 17,708 middle-aged and elderly residents in China. The population with diabetes was grouped into those diagnosed with diabetes mellitus (DDM) and those undiagnosed with diabetes mellitus (UDM). Direct economic cost data, including total direct medical costs (TC) and out-of-pocket (OOP) payments, were extracted as outcome variables. A two-part model was applied to analyze the association between social determinants of health and direct economic burden.

Results

In our analysis, we included 958 patients with DDM and 1,285 patients with UDM. The mean TC and OOP payments were 11,193 CNY (US $1,733; 6.46 CNY = 1 USD) and 7,266 CNY (US $1,125) in DDM patients, and 3,700 CNY (US $573) and 3,060 CNY (US $474) in UDM patients. Rural-urban status (p<0.05), regional status (p<0.05), household personal consumption expenditures (p<0.05), and comorbidities(p<0.05) were crucial factors associated with medical costs in people with diabetes.

Conclusion

Although progress has been made in the development of current health policies intended to contain the direct economic burden of diabetes, the gaps in that burden in populations with different social characteristics remains a burning issue. More policy breakthroughs are needed to achieve health equity.
Irish energy landscapes on film
Authors: Brereton Pat , Barrios-O’Neill Danielle
Published: April 2021

Landscape, and its relation to place identity, is a powerful tool for visualizing and making legible the effects of environmental change. So often the operations of resource consumption and conservation occur in a way that shapes and changes particular regional landscapes. This is significant in an era where inspiring audiences and policy-makers to respond to unsustainable resource use and environmental change is difficult, but where we are still compelled to care for particular elements of place as they relate to identity. In this article we examine how resource use and landscape change are communicated through Irish films, where the interactions of place identity and landscape are central. A key through line argument is how landscape is an important vehicle for expressing anxieties and contexts for resource interdependency; another is how elements of local and regional identity compete and interact with global concerns, such as climate change or globalization, in complex ways. We analyse these interactions to demonstrate how energy resource use and environmental change are linked, highlighting ‘small nation’ tensions concerning geographic identity and resource ownership that are relevant to real-world energy transitions and apply much more broadly.
Do Manuscrito ao Livro Impresso II
Authors: Andrade António Manuel Lopes , Carrington Maria Cristina
Published: April 2021

Este livro vem dar continuidade ao projeto de publicar as contribuições decorrentes do Ciclo de Conferências “Do manuscrito ao livro impresso”, reunindo agora, num segundo volume, os estudos da terceira e quarta edições (2017/18 e 2018/19), que tiveram lugar no Departamento de Línguas e Culturas da Universidade de Aveiro, no âmbito da Licenciatura em Línguas e Estudos Editoriais e do Mestrado em Estudos Editoriais.
A realização desta iniciativa tem o propósito de fomentar e aprofundar a articulação entre investigação e ensino, proporcionando aos estudantes um contacto privilegiado com os múltiplos aspetos da História do Livro e da Edição. A estreita colaboração entre o Departamento de Línguas e Culturas e a Imprensa da Universidade de Coimbra tem permitido alargar o alcance desta ação formativa e investigativa à prática profissional, uma vez que, na edição das obras, são envolvidos os estudantes do Mestrado que realizam o estágio curricular na editora.
Os estudos do presente volume, sujeitos a um rigoroso processo de arbitragem, versam sobre temas vários da História do Livro e da Edição e constituem um dos resultados mais visíveis de um projeto que se vem renovando, e que se propõe contribuir para a propagação das Artes do Livro.
Prevalence, genetic, and biochemical evaluation of immune response of police dogs infected with Babesia vogeli
Authors: Zaki Ahmed Adel , Attia Marwa Mohamed , Ismael Elshaimaa , Mahdy Olfat Anter
Published: April 2021

Background and Aim: Babesia species are tick-borne protozoan parasites of apicomplexan type which infect the erythrocytes of dogs it ranges from subclinical to severe cases, depending on different factors such as immune status, age, and presence of other co-infections with the Babesia species. Hence, this study aimed to identify the protozoan parasites infecting police dogs of different breeds, ages, and both sexes in Egypt. Concerning molecular detection of Babesia vogeli using conventional polymerase chain reaction sequencing and phylogenetic analysis, followed by the assessment of immunological and biochemical status of infected dogs.

Materials and Methods: The blood of 242 police K9 dogs was collected. The age, breed, sex, and health status with clinical signs of dogs were recorded. Hematological, biochemical, and oxidative stress analyses of the blood were performed together with gene expression analysis using two genes (gamma interferon [IFN-γ] and tumor necrosis factor-alpha [TNF- α]). The identification of the causative agent was performed using molecular analysis of the 18S ribosomal RNA (rRNA). The 18S rRNA region of canine Babesia spp. was successfully amplified, and sequencing data were deposited in GenBank (accession number: MT565474.1), which resembled those of B. vogeli.

Results: The results of blood samples screening revealed that of the 242 blood samples, 62 were positive for B. vogeli infection. The infection rate in male dogs was higher than that in female dogs. The police dogs were classified into the following three groups of dogs: (1st group) healthy, (2nd infected with B. vogeli, and mixed infection of B. vogeli and Ehrlichia canis). The oxidative stress biomarkers levels in B. vogeli infected dogs were greater than that of healthy dogs. Likewise, IFN-γ and TNF-α level in B. vogeli infected dogs were elevated in infected dogs.

Conclusion: Our findings demonstrated that B. vogeli had completely adverse effects on the health condition of the police dogs that may lead to death in some dogs.
Vezetői döntéshozatal és versenyképesség (The managerial decision making and the competitiveness)
Authors: Zoltayné Paprika Zita , Wimmer Ágnes , Szántó Richárd
Published: April 2021

A tanulmány a vezetői döntéshozatal három lényeges aspektusát tárja fel. A Versenyben a világgal c. kutatási program eredményei alapján arra lehet következtetni, hogy a menedzserek döntéshozatali képességei és megközelítései, a vállalati teljesítménymérés és menedzsment döntéseket támogató szerepe, valamint a vállalatok érintettekhez fűződő viszonya meghatározó lehet a hatékony vezetői döntéshozatal során. A vállalati döntéshozatal jellemzőinek bemutatása után megvizsgáljuk azt is, hogy a különböző teljesítményű cégek döntéseit mennyire támogatja a menedzserek felkészültsége, a teljesítménymérési gyakorlat és az érintettek elvárásai. A szerzők úgy találták, hogy a fenti tényezők mindegyike hozzájárul a hazai cégek versenyképességéhez, általánosságban ugyanis elmondható, hogy a döntéseket támogató vállalati környezet jobb üzleti teljesítményhez és gyorsabb reagálóképességhez vezethet. Az eredmények összegzése mellett ajánlásokkal is éltek a vállalatok számára, amelyek alkalmazásával hatékonyabb döntéseket hozhatnak. _______ This study presents three main aspects of the managerial decision making. Based on the results of the research program In competition with the World it points to the fact that decision making abilities and approaches of the managers, the corporate performance appraisal and the management decision support role, and the corporate relations to the stakeholders will be determinant in the process of the efficient managerial decision making. After presentation of characteristics of the corporate decision making the authors examine that how the decisions of enterprises with different performances are supported by the preparedness of the managers, the performance appraisal practice and the stakeholders expectations. The authors have thought that every factor contributes to the competitiveness of the domestic enterprises, and generally the decision supporting corporate environment can lead to better business performance and faster responsive abilities. Besides the results summary the authors give useful recommendations to the corporations with which they can make more efficient decisions.
Az innovációterjedés lehetőségei egy technológiai piacon (Opportunity of the innovation on a technologic market)
Authors: Bauer András , Horváth Dóra , Mitev Ariel Zoltán
Published: April 2021

Az innovációterjedés vizsgálatának számos módszere ismert a szakirodalomban, a leggyakoribb a szociológiai alapú közelítés, melynek marketingvonatkozásait alapvetően Rogers (1962) dolgozta fel. Rogers elmélete kettős – egyrészt elméleti szegmentációt nyújt az innováció elfogadásához, másrészt bemutatja a sikeres innovációelfogadás tényezőit. Az elmélet további alkalmazása során egy viszonylag egységes, de – mint ahogy a szerzők 2005-ben végzett kutatásából kiderült – nem feltétlen valós kép alakult ki az egyes fogyasztói csoportokról. A legtöbb innovációs kutatás kvantitatív jellegű, amily eleve feltételezi, hogy pontosan ismerjük a probléma szerkezetét. Radikálisan új megoldások esetében azonban nem feltétlenül rendelkezünk ilyen ismeretekkel, s szükséges lehet egy feltáró kutatás elvégzése. A szerzők vizsgálatukban alapvetően kvalitatív kutatási technikákat alkalmaztak: a résztvevők megfigyelését, a strukturálatlan interjút, mélyinterjút egyaránt használták, és a felhasználók, illetve az érdekelt vállalatok széles körét vonták be a kutatásba. _____________ In their paper the authors study the user acceptance of a new innovation, wifi applications in a technologically less developed market with qualitative research techniques. They used Rogers’ framework of aspects of the diffusion of innovation, to explore whether those factors are traceable and have influence in the spreading of hotspot. Their objective was to explore the factors of diffusion of innovation in a less developed market, what the major possible success factors of introducing wifi solutions for operating hotspots. They found that current users show two separate groups: one group is the technology freak, trend follower innovators. The other group is also technologically well-educated more conservative – security sensitive professional users, innovators in the sense of using the new technology at the earliest stage, but hold negative attitudes towards the new application in question. This raises the question whether companies are to approach these innovators with differentiated strategy.
Tudásmenedzsment az üzleti stratégia szolgálatában
Authors: Klimkó Gábor , Tóth Róbert
Published: April 2021

A MOL 1999-ben indította el tudásmenedzsment- (TM) tevékenységeit egy holisztikus TM-stratégia kidolgozásával és elfogadásával. A TM-stratégia rövid távon kívánt eredményeket felmutatni, ez a gyakorlatban főként informatikai eszközök alkalmazását jelentette. A vezetés figyelme a kezdeti sikerek után a TM témája iránt fokozatosan csökkent. A MOL üzleti stratégiájának megvalósítása részeként Közép-Európában akvizíciókat hajtott végre. A MOL Csoport bővülése ismét a felszínre hozta a TM szükségességét. A TM-stratégiát megújították, a tevékenységeket felülvizsgálták. A TM-tevékenységek legfontosabb iránymutatója a MOL 2006–2010 üzleti stratégiája lett. Az eset illusztrálja, hogy a TM-tevékenységek értékarányos volta szükséges a vezetés támogatásának elnyeréséhez és megtartásához.
Tudásmenedzsmentet támogató szervezeti megoldások (Knowledge management supported by organizational solutions)
Authors: Fehér Péter
Published: April 2021

A tudás a vállalatok egyre fontosabb erőforrásává vált, ezért tudatos megoldásokkal kell törekedni a szervezeti tudásban rejlő lehetőségek hatékony kihasználására. A tudás kezelésére irányuló tevékenységeket mind technológiai-informatikai, mind HR-, mind pedig szervezeti megoldásokkal lehet támogatni. Jelen cikkben a vállalatok szervezeti megoldásait elemzi a szerző: rámutat a szervezeti struktúrák, a szervezeti kultúra, a vezetői megközelítések (leadership) szerepére, valamint a kommunikáció különböző formáinak lehetőségeire. ______ Knowledge management activities became important part of knowledge oriented organisations, like software development companies. These activities can be supported by technological and organisational solutions. This paper concentrates on the organisational support factors of knowledge management activities in the software development industries, and examines the role of organisational design, structures, processes, communication and management support, while highlights the challenges.
A tudásmenedzsment és az IT audit kapcsolódási pontjai - a tudásmenedzsment-rendszerek auditja (Connection points of knowledge management and IT audit – audit of knowledge management systems)
Authors: Kő Andrea , Szabó Zoltán
Published: April 2021

A cikkben a szerzők megvizsgálják a tudásmenedzsment komplex rendszerfejlesztési projektekben és az informatikai auditban játszott szerepét. Fő céljuk, hogy a tudásmenedzsment-rendszerek fejlesztéséhez kapcsolódó audit támogatására értékelési modellt készítsenek. Cikkükben megvizsgálják a tudásmenedzsmentnek az IT-auditban játszott általános szerepét, az auditban érintett tudásvagyon védelmének kérdését, a tudásmenedzsment-folyamatok szerepét a rendszerfejlesztésben (auditszempontból), a kontrollok implementálását, valamint a tudásmenedzsment és az IT-audittal kapcsolatos szabványok, módszertanok kapcsolatát. Az eredmények illusztrálására egy az Európai Unió 7. keretprogramjából finanszírozott nemzetközi projekt (GUIDE, IST–2003–507498) szolgál. ________________ Authors investigate the role of knowledge management in complex system development projects and IT audit. The primary goal is to provide an evaluation framework for an assessment of the development of special knowledge management solutions. On the other hand IT audit itself is a knowledge-dependent activity. The paper analyses the role of knowledge management in IT audit in general, the protection of knowledge assets during an audit, the role of knowledge management processes during system development (from audit point of view) and in the implementation of controls, the relationship of knowledge management with audit standards. Authors investigate the specialities of KM developments from audit point of view (particularly important aspects of audit, specific control objectives) A case study, based on experiences gained from GUIDE project (IST-2003-507498 funded by the European Commission’s 6th Framework Programme) illustrates the findings.
A távmunka és a vállalati profit
Authors: Jáki Erika
Published: April 2021

Magyarországon a távmunka fogalma kevesebb, mint egy évtizedre tekint vissza. A telework, illetve 2000 óta használt eWork kifejezés fordításaként jött létre. A cikk elején maga a távmunka fogalma kerül definiálásra, kitérve az eWork és a telework fogalmakra is, majd az Európai Unió kapcsolatát és szerepvállalását mutatja be a szerző a távmunka elterjedésében. A távmunka alkalmazásának lehetőségét a versenyszférában két vetület mentén vizsgálja: az egyik az emberi dimenzió, a másik a vállalat. A szerző részletesen tárgyalja a hatékonyságnövelés, a költségcsökkentés lehetőségét, a távmunkásokból álló csapat kontrollálásának nehézségeit, és azt, hogy a vállalat távmunkások alkalmazásával szociális felelősséget is vállal. Végül a távmunka elterjedését hátráltató tényezők kerülnek sorra.
A felismerés és annak 23-féle támogatása
Authors: Angyal Ádám
Published: April 2021

A tudományos haladásban fontos lépés a megismerés, de nem feledkezhetünk meg a felismerésről, azaz a mentális folyamatokról sem. A tudományelméleti megállapítások, amelyek valamely kérdés megalapozottságára, a tudás és ismeret objektivitására vonatkoznak, döntően a megismerés folyamatát érintik. A szerző írásának középpontjában azonban a felismerés áll.
Kis- és középvállalkozások fejlődésének vizsgálata egy empirikus felmérés tükrében
Authors: Poór József , Kiss Katalin , Gross András , Francsovics Anna
Published: April 2021

A kis- és közepes vállalkozások (KKV) egyre jelentősebb szerepet töltenek be a magyar gazdaság életében. A belső és külső problémáik ellenére is képességet mutatnak a túlélésre. Az elmúlt évtized során ezek a vállalkozások kezdik figyelmüket az ország határain túli piaci lehetőségekre irányítani. A vállalkozások indításához és működtetéséhez szükséges vállalkozási, menedzseri és szakmai képességeik kezdenek elkülönülni. A cégeket alapító tulajdonosok teret engednek külső menedzsereknek, és szakembereket alkalmaznak speciális feladatok megoldására. Az empirikus kutatásban 112 magyar kis- és közepes vállalkozás vett részt, amelyekről elmondható, hogy kisebb-nagyobb erőfeszítések árán, de sikereket értek el az 1987-től 2005-ig terjedő időszakban.
Retreatment of 6 Ceramic Restorations In A Single Session - The Application of Er:YAG Laser And CAD/CAM Technology: An 1 Year Follow Up Clinical Evaluation
Authors: Bernal Christian Giancarlo , Lee Ester Mi Ryoung , Eduardo Carlos De Paula , Souza Ana Maria Aparecida , Azevedo Luciane Hiramatsu
Published: April 2021

Background: To present the benefits of high power lasers (Er: YAG and Nd: YAG) over the use of the high speed turbine for the extraction of ceramics restorations, without damaging the surfaces of the teeth; being a relatively easier and faster procedure without the use of anesthetic agents, and the preparation of the ceramic restorations and cementing in the single session; with a follow-up of 1 year. Objective: The benefits of lasers over high-speed turbine mechanical instrumentation for crown removal encompass efficient restoration recovery without damage to tooth surfaces; and a relatively easier and faster procedure without the use of anesthetic agents. Methods: The Er: YAG laser (no contact; 3.2-4.0 W, 20 Hz) was used to extract the porcelain prosthesis, followed by a gingivectomy with the Nd: YAG laser on tooth 12 to improve the gingival contour. The dental surfaces where the ceramic prosthesis will be cemented were scanned. Then, CAD / CAM technology was used to make the ceramic veneers that were cemented in the same session. Results: The efficacy the Er:YAG laser energy was observed by the decreased of the time to remove all-ceramic materials through ablation of bonding cements, reducing working time by 75% compared to a high-speed turbine. Conclusions: An Er: YAG laser can safely remove lithium disilicate crowns with the settings used in this study. Laser-assisted removal of all ceramic PDFs is a promising treatment protocol. The use of the Nd: YAG (2.0 W power, short 20Hz, 320 µm optical fiber, in contact) laser allowed gingivoplasty to be performed, automatically cauterizing avoiding post-operative bleeding, and facilitating the preparation of ceramic restorations the same day. The use of high-power lasers and the use of accompanying CAD / CAM technology allowed this clinical case to be completed in a single visit without the use of temporary restorations, achieving absolute patient satisfaction.
 
Keywords
Er:YAG; Nd:YAG; Lithium disilicate ceramic; CAD/CAM.
Effects of salbutamol, montelukast and prednisone on orthodontic tooth movement in rats
Authors: Chumpitaz-Cerrate Victor , Chávez-Rimache Lesly , Franco-Quino César , Ruiz-Ramirez Eliberto , Aguirre-Siancas Elías , Erazo-Paredes Carlos
Published: April 2021

Objective: To evaluate the effect of salbutamol, montelukast, and prednisone on orthodontic tooth movement in rats. Material and Methods: In vivo experimental preclinical study. The sample consisted of 48 rats randomly distributed in four study groups. Group A was given saline solution; to group B, salbutamol 4 mg/Kg; to group C, montelukast 2.5 mg/Kg and to group D, prednisone 2.5 mg/Kg. All were fitted with orthodontic devices and the medications were administered intraperitoneally every 12 hours for 5 days. The clinical evaluation (variation in the interincisal distance) was performed at one, three, five, and seven days and the histopathological analysis (cell count) at five and seven days. Results: In the clinical evaluation of the variation in the interincisal distance, a significant difference was found in all the evaluations (p <0.05). It was found that the salbutamol group presented higher variation values in the interincisal distance on all the days evaluated. In the histopathological analysis at five and seven days, it was found that the osteoblast and osteocyte count was significantly higher in the salbutamol group compared to the other groups (p ><0.05). However, in the subgroup analysis, it was found that there was no significant difference in the osteoblast and osteocyte count between the prednisone, montelukast, and control group (p>0.05). Conclusion: The administration of salbutamol increased the magnitude of orthodontic tooth movement; nonetheless, the administration of montelukast and prednisone did not modify the magnitude of orthodontic tooth movement in rats.
 
Keywords
Albuterol; Montelukast; Prednisone; Rats; Tooth movement.
Inferior alveolar nerve paraesthesia after overfilling into the mandibular canal, confirmed by cone-beam computed tomography: a case report
Authors: Souza Júnior Claudemir de , Machado Ricardo , Batts Renee Ashley , Garcia Lucas da Fonseca Roberti
Published: April 2021

The filling material should be restricted to the root canal, and not extend to the periradicular tissues. Overextension occurs when there is an overflow of gutta-percha and sealer, whereas overfilling refers to the overflow only of sealer beyond the apical foramen. Both may cause several negative clinical consequences. Nevertheless, an accurate diagnosis of where they occurred cannot always be performed by conventional radiographic examination, because of the two-dimensional aspect of the image. This paper describes a clinical case of labiomandibular paraesthesia after overfilling into the mandibular canal (MC), as diagnosed by cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), later used to perform the treatment planning. A 34-year-old Caucasian female patient sought a private dental clinic complaining of pain in the right mandibular posterior region. After taking the anamnesis and performing clinical and radiographic exams, the patient was diagnosed with pulp necrosis in the second right mandibular molar, and underwent root canal treatment. The final radiography showed overextension or overfilling, probably into the MC. About 2 hours after the procedure, the patient reported paraesthesia of her lower right lip and chin. A CBCT confirmed a small overfilling into the MC. For this reason, vitamin B12 was prescribed as the first treatment option. After 7 days, the patient reported a significant decrease in paraesthesia, and was completely normal after 15 days. This case report shows that CBCT is an effective radiographic diagnostic tool that can be used as an alternative in clinical cases of labiomandibular paraesthesia caused by overextension or overfilling.
 
Keywords
Endodontic treatment; Overfilling; Paraesthesia; Conebeam computed tomography.