bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Programmable spectral shaping demonstrated at the solar spectral irradiance distribution
Authors: Mühleis Matthias , Hohl-Ebinger Jochen
Published: February 2021

Highly accurate short-circuit current measurements of photovoltaic devices require spectrally adjustable radiation sources. This paper presents an optical setup, which is able to generate and adjust the spectral irradiance in the wavelength range from 355 nm to 1200 nm with an optical resolution of 7 nm to 15 nm. A grating light valve (GLV) is used as a spectral shaping tool. We prove the highly resolved spectral shaping capability by matching the spectral irradiance of the generated radiation to the AM1.5g reference solar spectral irradiance distribution, slightly smoothed to consider the limited bandwidth of the spectrometer. Remaining deviations are mostly lower than the spectral measurement noise of 0.5 % to 3 %.
Controllable transport of nanoparticles along waveguides by spin-orbit coupling of light
Authors: Zhang Zhibin , Min Changjun , Fu Yanan , Zhang Yuquan , Liu Weiwei , Yuan Xiaocong
Published: February 2021

Waveguide optical tweezers can capture and transport nanoparticles, and have important applications in biology, physics, and materials science. However, traditional waveguide optical tweezers need to couple incident light into one end of the waveguide, which causes problems such as difficulty in alignment and low efficiency. Here, we propose a new type of waveguide optical tweezers based on spin-orbit coupling of light. Under the effect of spin-orbit coupling between the waveguide and nearby particles illuminated by a circularly polarized light, the particles experience a lateral recoil force and a strong optical gradient force, which make particles in a large area to be trapped near the waveguide and then transmitted along the waveguide, avoiding the coupling of light into one end of the waveguide. We further demonstrate that the particles can be transmitted along a curved waveguide and even rotated along a ring-shaped waveguide, and its transmission direction can be simply switched by adjusting the spin polarization of incident light. This work has significance in the research of optical on-chip nano-tweezers.
Grayscale image for broadband linear polarization measurement by an ultracompact metasurface
Authors: Cao Yue , Tang Lili , Jin Renchao , Li Jiaqi , Wang Jin , Dong Zheng-Gao
Published: February 2021

The polarization of light, the vector nature of electromagnetic waves, is one of the fundamental parameters. Finding a direct and efficient method to measure the state of polarized light is extremely urgent for nano-optical applications. Based on Malus’s law, we design an ultracompact metasurface composed of silver nanorods, which is demonstrated to directly measure the state of linear polarization by a grayscale image. Using an ultrathin metasurface, we generate grayscale images with gradient grayscale levels which are linked directly to the polarization state of the incident light. The direction of the linear polarization of incident light can be conveniently and efficiently obtained through extracting the angle of the brightest area of the grayscale image. The ultrathin metasurface operates in the broadband 750–1100 nm spectral range. It is a novel and significant method to analyze the linear polarization state of light, which provides opportunities for various applications, such as polarimetric multispectral imaging and miniaturized polarimeter.
Echis carinatus snake venom metalloprotease-induced toxicities in mice: Therapeutic intervention by a repurposed drug, Tetraethyl thiuram disulfide (Disulfiram)
Authors: Rudresha Gotravalli V. , Urs Amog P. , Manjuprasanna Vaddarahally N. , Milan Gowda Mallanayakanakatte D. , Jayachandra Krishnegowda , Rajaiah Rajesh , Vishwanath Bannikuppe S.
Published: February 2021

Echis carinatus (EC) is known as saw-scaled viper and it is endemic to the Indian subcontinent. Envenoming by EC represents a major cause of snakebite mortality and morbidity in the Indian subcontinent. Zinc (Zn++) dependent snake venom metalloproteases (SVMPs) present in Echis carinatus venom (ECV) is well known to cause systemic hemorrhage and coagulopathy in experimental animals. An earlier report has shown that ECV activates neutrophils and releases neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) that blocks blood vessels leading to severe tissue necrosis. However, the direct involvement of SVMPs in the release of NETs is not clear. Here, we investigated the direct involvement of EC SVMPs in observed pathological symptoms in a preclinical setup using specific Zn++ metal chelator, Tetraethyl thiuram disulfide (TTD)/disulfiram. TTD potently antagonizes the activity of SVMPs-mediated ECM protein degradation in vitro and skin hemorrhage in mice. In addition, TTD protected mice from ECV-induced footpad tissue necrosis by reduced expression of citrullinated H3 (citH3) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) in footpad tissue. TTD also neutralized ECV-induced systemic hemorrhage and conferred protection against lethality in mice. Moreover, TTD inhibited ECV-induced NETosis in human neutrophils and decreased the expression of peptidyl arginine deiminase (PAD) 4, citH3, MPO, and p-ERK. Further, we demonstrated that ECV-induced NETosis and tissue necrosis are mediated via PAR-1-ERK axis. Overall, our results provide an insight into SVMPs-induced toxicities and the promising protective efficacy of TTD can be extrapolated to treat severe tissue necrosis complementing anti-snake venom (ASV).
Short-term outcomes of pubertal suppression in a selected cohort of 12 to 15 year old young people with persistent gender dysphoria in the UK
Authors: Carmichael Polly , Butler Gary , Masic Una , Cole Tim J. , De Stavola Bianca L. , Davidson Sarah , Skageberg Elin M. , Khadr Sophie , Viner Russell M.
Published: February 2021

Background

In adolescents with severe and persistent gender dysphoria (GD), gonadotropin releasing hormone analogues (GnRHa) are used from early/middle puberty with the aim of delaying irreversible and unwanted pubertal body changes. Evidence of outcomes of pubertal suppression in GD is limited.

Methods

We undertook an uncontrolled prospective observational study of GnRHa as monotherapy in 44 12–15 year olds with persistent and severe GD. Prespecified analyses were limited to key outcomes: bone mineral content (BMC) and bone mineral density (BMD); Child Behaviour CheckList (CBCL) total t-score; Youth Self-Report (YSR) total t-score; CBCL and YSR self-harm indices; at 12, 24 and 36 months. Semistructured interviews were conducted on GnRHa.

Results

44 patients had data at 12 months follow-up, 24 at 24 months and 14 at 36 months. All had normal karyotype and endocrinology consistent with birth-registered sex. All achieved suppression of gonadotropins by 6 months. At the end of the study one ceased GnRHa and 43 (98%) elected to start cross-sex hormones.

There was no change from baseline in spine BMD at 12 months nor in hip BMD at 24 and 36 months, but at 24 months lumbar spine BMC and BMD were higher than at baseline (BMC +6.0 (95% CI: 4.0, 7.9); BMD +0.05 (0.03, 0.07)). There were no changes from baseline to 12 or 24 months in CBCL or YSR total t-scores or for CBCL or YSR self-harm indices, nor for CBCL total t-score or self-harm index at 36 months. Most participants reported positive or a mixture of positive and negative life changes on GnRHa. Anticipated adverse events were common.

Conclusions

Overall patient experience of changes on GnRHa treatment was positive. We identified no changes in psychological function. Changes in BMD were consistent with suppression of growth. Larger and longer-term prospective studies using a range of designs are needed to more fully quantify the benefits and harms of pubertal suppression in GD.
Mixed methods exploration of Ghanaian women’s domestic work, childcare and effects on their mental health
Authors: Owoo Nkechi S. , Lambon-Quayefio Monica P.
Published: February 2021

This research paper aims to understand the effects of time spent in domestic work, including childcare, on women’s mental health in Ghana. The paper adopted a triangulation convergence mixed methods approach. The quantitative information was sourced from two waves (2009/ 2014) of the Ghana Socioeconomic Panel Survey (GSEPS) while qualitative information was obtained from in-depth interviews with couples and key informants from five (5) regions, representing diverse ethnic backgrounds, in Ghana. Employing fixed effects regressions and a multinomial logistic regression model with fixed effects, we find that domestic work contributes to poorer mental health outcomes among women. These results are consistent, even when we correct for potential self-selectivity of women into domestic work. We also examine whether the relationship is differentiated between women of higher and lower socioeconomic status. We find that women from wealthier households who spend increasing time in domestic work have higher odds of mental distress. These results are supported by the qualitative data- women indicate increasing stress levels from domestic work and while some husbands acknowledge the situation of their overburdened wives and make attempts, however minor, to help, others cite social norms and cultural expectations that act as a deterrent to men’s assistance with domestic work. Efforts should be made to lessen the effects of social and cultural norms which continue to encourage gendered distributions of domestic work. This may be done through increased education, sensitization and general re-socialization of both men and women about the need for more egalitarian divisions of household work.
Physical and mental health outcomes including behavior and attitudes in people having social contacts with COVID-19 patients
Authors: Xu Zijun , Zhang Dexing , Xu Dong , Li Xue , Xie Yao Jie , Sun Wen , Lee Eric Kam-Pui , Yip Benjamin Hon-Kei , Mo Phoenix Kit-Han , Xiao Shuiyuan , Wong Samuel Yeung-Shan
Published: February 2021

The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) infection has spread worldwide since late 2019. People who have social contacts with COVID-19 patients might be at higher risk of physical or mental health problems. This study investigated whether people who had social contacts with COVID-19 patients would have poorer physical or mental outcomes, and different attitudes and behaviors. Chinese adults were recruited to fill in an online survey using snowball sampling during 21st-26ndFebruary 2020. Physical symptoms, psychological outcomes, quality of life, COVID-19 related attitudes, and behaviors were measured. The differences in the outcomes between participants who had COVID-19 social contacts and those who had not were analyzed. The survey included 1,447 non-infected eligible participants. Among those, 173 (12.0%) reported at least one confirmed/suspected case in their social contacts. In the multiple regression adjusted for demographic data, the presence of confirmed/suspected infection cases in one’s social contacts was significantly associated with poorer physical and mental outcomes, lower health-related quality of life, and different COVID-19 related attitudes and behaviors (p<0.05). In conclusion, people who had social contacts with COVID-19 patients were at risk of adverse health outcomes. Future studies are needed to understand the long-term impacts. Similarly, strategies to improve health outcomes for these people are needed.
Cost-effectiveness of the long-acting regimen cabotegravir plus rilpivirine for the treatment of HIV-1 and its potential impact on adherence and viral transmission: A modelling study
Authors: Parker Ben , Ward Tom , Hayward Olivia , Jacob Ian , Arthurs Erin , Becker Debbie , Anderson Sarah-Jane , Chounta Vasiliki , Van de Velde Nicolas
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) improves outcomes for people living with HIV (PLWH) but requires adherence to daily dosing. Suboptimal adherence results in reduced treatment effectiveness, increased costs, and greater risk of resistance and onwards transmission. Treatment with long-acting (LA), injection-based ART administered by healthcare professionals (directly observed therapy (DOT)) eliminates the need for adherence to daily dosing and may improve clinical outcomes. This study reports the cost-effectiveness of the cabotegravir plus rilpivirine LA regimen (CAB+RPV LA) and models the potential impact of LA DOT therapies.

Methods

Parameterisation was performed using pooled data from recent CAB+RPV LA Phase III trials. The analysis was conducted using a cohort-level hybrid decision-tree and state-transition model, with states defined by viral load and CD4 cell count. The efficacy of oral cART was adjusted to reflect adherence to daily regimens from published data. A Canadian health service perspective was adopted.

Results

CAB+RPV LA is predicted to be the dominant intervention when compared to oral cART, generating, per 1,000 patients treated, lifetime cost-savings of $1.5 million, QALY and life-year gains of 107 and 138 respectively with three new HIV cases averted.

Conclusions

Economic evaluations of LA DOTs need to account for the impact of adherence and HIV transmission. This study adds to the existing literature by incorporating transmission and using clinical data from the first LA DOT regimen. Providing PLWH and healthcare providers with novel modes of ART administration, enhancing individualisation of treatment, may facilitate the achievement of UNAIDS 95-95-95 objectives.
HIV testing uptake and prevalence among hospitalized older adults in Togo: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Gbeasor-Komlanvi Fifonsi Adjidossi , Zida-Compaore Wendpouire Ida Carine , Sadio Arnold Junior , Tchankoni Martin Kouame , Kadangha Balakiyem Magnim , Salou Mounerou , Dagnra Anoumou Claver , Ekouevi Didier Koumavi
Published: February 2021

Objectives

This study aimed to describe HIV testing uptake, as well as HIV prevalence and its associated factors among older adults aged ≥50 years in health facilities in Togo.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was carried out from February 2018 to June 2019 among hospitalized older adults aged ≥50 years in tertiary and secondary hospitals in Togo. HIV testing was performed according to the national algorithm. Socio-demographic data and HIV testing history were collected using a standardized questionnaire.

Results

A total of 619 patients (43.9% female) of median age 61 years, (IQR: 55–70) were recruited and offered HIV testing. Among them, 25.7% had never previously tested for HIV. In total, 91.6% (567/619) accepted HIV testing while 8.4% (52/619) refused to be tested. Of those who tested, forty patients were HIV positive, yielding a prevalence of 7.1%. Twenty-three patients (57.5%) were newly diagnosed with HIV infection. In multivariable analysis, two factors were associated with HIV infection: living alone (aOR = 5.83; 95%CI = [2.26–14.53]) and being <60 years (aOR = 3.12; 95%CI = [1.51–6.66]).

Conclusion

The majority of older adults in this study accepted testing for HIV and almost three in five HIV positive older adults were newly diagnosed with HIV as a result of this testing. There is an urgent need to integrate older adults into responses to the HIV epidemic and to strengthen targeted prevention care and treatment in this population.
A Delphi study to explore and gain consensus regarding the most important barriers and facilitators affecting physiotherapist and pharmacist non-medical prescribing
Authors: Graham-Clarke Emma , Rushton Alison , Marriott John
Published: February 2021

Non-medical prescribing was introduced into the United Kingdom to improve patient care, but early research indicated a third of Allied Health Professionals may not use their prescribing qualification. A previous literature review, highlighting factors influencing prescribing, identified only papers with nursing and pharmacy participants. This investigation explored consensus on factors affecting physiotherapist and pharmacist non-medical prescribers. A three round Delphi study was conducted with pharmacist and physiotherapist prescribers. Round One comprised information gathering on facilitators and barriers to prescribing participants had experienced, and underwent content analysis. This was followed by two sequential consensus seeking rounds with participants asked to rate the importance of statements to themselves. Consensus criteria were determined a priori, including median, interquartile range, percentage agreement and Kendall’s Coefficient of Concordance (W). Statements reaching consensus were ranked for importance in Round Three and analysed to produce top ten ranks for all participants and for each professional group. Participants, recruited October 2018, comprised 24 pharmacists and 18 physiotherapists. In Round One, content analysis of 172 statements regarding prescribing influences revealed 24 themes. 127 statements were included in Round Two for importance rating (barriers = 68, facilitators = 59). After Round Two, 29 statements reached consensus (barriers = 1, facilitators = 28), with no further statements reaching consensus following Round Three. The highest ranked statement in Round Three overall was: “Being able to prescribe to patients is more effective and really useful working [in my area]”. Medical support and improved patient care factors appeared the most important. Differences were noted between physiotherapist and pharmacist prescribers regarding the top ten ranked statements, for example team working which pharmacists ranked higher than physiotherapists. Differences may be explained by the variety of practice areas and relative newness of physiotherapy prescribing. Barriers appear to be post or person specific, whereas facilitators appear universal.
Application of a simulation model to the prognosis of material loss in wood processing
Authors: Żywicki Krzysztof , Bartkowiak Tomasz , Kujawińska Agnieszka
Published: February 2021

The article discusses the influence of a sample size on the credibility of a simulation model created for the estimation of material loss in the production of a middle layer of a wooden floorboard. The study was conducted in a production company operating in the wood processing industry. Geometric characteristics of input material were captured and used to derive statistical distributions, which were then included in the simulation model. The conducted experiments indicated that the quality of the simulation model was significantly affected by the quality and quantity of the sample, on the basis of which the stochastic model is estimated. It was shown that small sample for wood processing data was insufficient to capture process variability. On the other hand, excessive sample size (80 or more observations) for the material with high natural geometric variability, involves taking into account outliers, which may lower the overall prognostic quality of the simulation model. Based on the conducted simulation experiments, the recommended sample size which allows development of a reliable model for estimation of material loss in the analyzed manufacturing process, ranges from 40 to 60 measurements.
Negative self-appraisal: Personal reasons for dying as indicators of suicidality
Authors: Madsen Julian , Harris Keith M.
Published: February 2021

Reasons for dying (RFD) are one of the most authentic factors illustrating the lived experience of suicidal individuals. However, the field has been criticized for inadequate evaluation of risk factors and suicidal symptoms, such as RFD, to develop more robust theoretical models and risk assessments. In this study, we aimed to critically examine RFD themes as predictors of suicidal symptoms to improve our understanding of the suicidal mind, test suicide theory validity and improve risk assessment. This cross-sectional mixed-method study included anonymous survey data (N = 713) with a subsample (n = 474; 77% female; age M = 31.48, SD = 13.53) who provided RFD. Participants were asked to write down five RFD (ranked 1stto 5thmost important) and completed the Suicidal Affect-Behavior-Cognition Scale (SABCS). Thematic analysis revealed eight valid RFD themes—Negative Self-appraisal, Hopelessness, Desire to Escape, Escape Pain, Relationships, Loneliness, Financial Hardship, and Physical Health. Themes were quantified by rank and total endorsements of the theme. Hierarchical regression modelling, statistically controlling for demographics, showed all RFD themes, except Physical Health, were positive predictors of suicidality, accounting for 26% of variance in suicidal symptoms. Negative Self-appraisal was the strongest predictor. RFD differences were also found by gender, age and education. From these findings, we determined current suicide theories do not fully account for suicidal persons’ RFD. There is a pressing need for more critical review of current theories, as current theories only partially represent this key attribute of the suicidal mind, and none of the reviewed theories accurately reflected suicidal participants’ RFD. Clinical implications include integrating financial therapies into suicide prevention treatments and incorporating RFD into assessments and treatments. To aid research and risk assessment efforts, we propose a new RFD Index, with eight five-point response items.
Representation of Parkinson's disease and atypical Parkinson's syndromes in the Czech Republic—A nationwide retrospective study
Authors: Búřil Jiří , Búřilová Petra , Pokorná Andrea , Kováčová Ingrid , Baláž Marek
Published: February 2021

Background

Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disease which causes health problem that affects more patients in the past few years. To be able to offer appropriate care, epidemiological analyses are crucial at the national level and its comparison with the international situation.

Aim

The demographic description of reported patients with parkinsonism (including Parkinson's disease and atypical parkinsonian syndromes) according to the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) from the national health registries.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of data available from the National Health Information System–NHIS and the National Registry of Reimbursed Health Services (NRRHS). Analyzed epidemiological data are intending to determine the regional and specific prevalence of Parkinsonism in the Czech Republic. The International Classification of Diseases diagnoses (ICD-10) of G20 (Parkinson’s disease—PD) and G23.1, G23.2, G23.3 (other degenerative disorders of basal ganglia), and G31.8 (another degenerative disease of basal ganglia) from the period of 2012 to 2018 were included into the analysis.

Results

We identified 78 453 unique patients from national registries in the period 2012 to 2018. Diagnoses of G20, G23.1, G23.2, and G31.8 were registered as the principal diagnoses in 76.6% of all individual patients.

Conclusion

We have found a growing number of patients coded with ICD-10 of dg. G20, G23.1, G23.2, G23.3, or G31.8 (N = 27 891 in 2012, and N = 30 612 in 2018). We have proven regional differences in the prevalence of Parkinson´s diagnoses. Therefore we assume most likely also differences in the care of patients with PD based on the availability of specialty care centers.
Development of a coronavirus disease 2019 nonhuman primate model using airborne exposure
Authors: Johnston Sara C. , Ricks Keersten M. , Jay Alexandra , Raymond Jo Lynne , Rossi Franco , Zeng Xiankun , Scruggs Jennifer , Dyer David , Frick Ondraya , Koehler Jeffrey W. , Kuehnert Paul A. , Clements Tamara L. , Shoemaker Charles J. , Coyne Susan R. , Delp Korey L. , Moore Joshua , Berrier Kerry , Esham Heather , Shamblin Joshua , Sifford Willie , Fiallos Jimmy , Klosterman Leslie , Stevens Stephen , White Lauren , Bowling Philip , Garcia Terrence , Jensen Christopher , Ghering Jeanean , Nyakiti David , Bellanca Stephanie , Kearney Brian , Giles Wendy , Alli Nazira , Paz Fabian , Akers Kristen , Danner Denise , Barth James , Johnson Joshua A. , Durant Matthew , Kim Ruth , Hooper Jay W. , Smith Jeffrey M. , Kugelman Jeffrey R. , Beitzel Brett F. , Gibson Kathleen M. , Pitt Margaret L. M. , Minogue Timothy D. , Nalca Aysegul
Published: February 2021

Airborne transmission is predicted to be a prevalent route of human exposure with SARS-CoV-2. Aside from African green monkeys, nonhuman primate models that replicate airborne transmission of SARS-CoV-2 have not been investigated. A comparative evaluation of COVID-19 in African green monkeys, rhesus macaques, and cynomolgus macaques following airborne exposure to SARS-CoV-2 was performed to determine critical disease parameters associated with disease progression, and establish correlations between primate and human COVID-19. Respiratory abnormalities and viral shedding were noted for all animals, indicating successful infection. Cynomolgus macaques developed fever, and thrombocytopenia was measured for African green monkeys and rhesus macaques. Type II pneumocyte hyperplasia and alveolar fibrosis were more frequently observed in lung tissue from cynomolgus macaques and African green monkeys. The data indicate that, in addition to African green monkeys, macaques can be successfully infected by airborne SARS-CoV-2, providing viable macaque natural transmission models for medical countermeasure evaluation.
Validation of a novel multiplex real-time PCR assay for Trypanosoma cruzi detection and quantification in açai pulp
Authors: Finamore-Araujo Paula , Faier-Pereira Amanda , Ramon do Nascimento Brito Carlos , Gomes Peres Eldrinei , Kazumy de Lima Yamaguchi Klenicy , Trotta Barroso Ferreira Renata , Moreira Otacilio Cruz
Published: February 2021

In Brazil, orally acquired T. cruzi infection has become the most relevant transmission mechanisms from public health perspective. Around 70% of new Chagas disease cases have been associated with consumption of contaminated food or beverages. Açai (Euterpe oleracea and Euterpe precatoria) is currently one of the most commercialized Amazonian fruits in the Brazilian and international markets. Therefore, it has become important to incorporate in the production process some procedures to measure out effective hygiene and product quality control required by global market. Molecular methods have been developed for rapid detection and quantification of T. cruzi DNA in several biological samples, including food matrices, for epidemiological investigation of Chagas disease and food quality control. However, a high-performance molecular methodology since DNA extraction until detection and quantification of T. cruzi DNA in açai berry pulp is still needed. Herein, a simple DNA extraction methodology was standardized from the supernatant of açai berry pulp stabilized in a 6M Guanidine-HCl/0.2M EDTA buffer. In addition, a multiplex real time qPCR assay, targeting T. cruzi DNA and an Exogenous Internal Positive Control was developed and validated, using reference from all T. cruzi DTUs and commercial samples of açai pulp, from an endemic municipality with previous history of oral Chagas disease outbreak. Thus, a high-sensitivity qPCR assay, that could detect up to 0.01 parasite equivalents/mL in açai, was reached. As of the 45 commercial samples analyzed, 9 (20%) were positive for T. cruzi. This high-sensitive, fast, and easy-to-use molecular assay is compatible with most of the laboratories involved in the investigations of oral Chagas disease outbreaks, representing an important tool to the epidemiology, control, and surveillance of Chagas disease.
Extrafollicular CD4 T cell-derived IL-10 functions rapidly and transiently to support anti-Plasmodium humoral immunity
Authors: Surette Fionna A. , Guthmiller Jenna J. , Li Lei , Sturtz Alexandria J. , Vijay Rahul , Pope Rosemary L. , McClellan Brandon L. , Pack Angela D. , Zander Ryan A. , Shao Peng , Lan Linda Yu-Ling , Fernandez-Ruiz Daniel , Heath William R. , Wilson Patrick C. , Butler Noah S.
Published: February 2021

Immunity against malaria depends on germinal center (GC)-derived antibody responses that are orchestrated by T follicular helper (TFH) cells. Emerging data show that the regulatory cytokine IL-10 plays an essential role in promoting GC B cell responses during both experimental malaria and virus infections. Here we investigated the cellular source and temporal role of IL-10, and whether IL-10 additionally signals to CD4 T-cells to support anti-Plasmodium humoral immunity. Distinct from reports of virus infection, we found that IL-10 was expressed by conventional, Foxp3-negative effector CD4 T cells and functioned in a B cell-intrinsic manner only during the first 96 hours of Plasmodium infection to support humoral immunity. The critical functions of IL-10 manifested only before the orchestration of GC responses and were primarily localized outside of B cell follicles. Mechanistically, our studies showed that the rapid and transient provision of IL-10 promoted B cell expression of anti-apoptotic factors, MHC class II, CD83, and cell-cell adhesion proteins that are essential for B cell survival and interaction with CD4 T cells. Together, our data reveal temporal features and mechanisms by which IL-10 critically supports humoral immunity during blood-stage Plasmodium infection, information that may be useful for developing new strategies designed to lessen the burden of malaria.
Haemoparasites in captive birds at Uberlândia zoo, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil
Authors: Aguiar Lívia Mendonça de , Marçal Júnior Oswaldo
Published: February 2021

Haemoparasites are one of the most important groups of bird parasites, with emphasis on the genera Haemoproteus, Plasmodium, Leucocytozoon and Trypanosoma. Zoos sustain different wild animals and are valuable tools for the education and conservation of species. The conditions of captive animals differ from wild animals, as zoos have sufficient availability of food throughout the year, protection against predators and veterinary care for animals. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of haemoparasites in captive birds of the Sabiá Municipal Park Zoo, municipality of Uberlândia, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Blood samples were collected from the alveolar vein puncture to make blood swabs. This material was fixed with methanol, stained by the GIEMSA technique and examined under optical microscope. A total of 46 birds (19 species) were analyzed and only three individuals (6.52%) were positive for Plasmodium sp. The hosts were Pavo cristatus and Tyto furcata. This low positivity was expected, since haemoparasites do not generally present high infection rates among birds. Even if a parasite is not pathogenic for a given species, these individuals are important reservoirs for the infection of more vulnerable species. Differences in the prevalence and intensity of infection of these hosts depend on the virulence of the parasite, ability of the host to respond to such infections and vector availability. This low prevalence rate suggests a good health status of the captive birds in the study area.
Modelo estructural de organización municipal para mejorar la calidad de servicios públicos del gobierno local de San Ignacio, Cajamarca (Perú)
Authors: Olano Elera Segundo René
Published: February 2021

La presente investigación tuvo como objetivo formular la propuesta de un modelo estructural de organización municipal orientado a la mejora de la calidad de servicios públicos del Gobierno Local de San Ignacio, que pertenece al departamento de Cajamarca y los datos recopilados corresponden al año 2019. El tipo de investigación es cuantitativa, no experimental, con alcance descriptiva proyectiva, teniendo como muestra 56 colaboradores de la municipalidad, donde se aplicó una encuesta a los usuarios, una entrevista a los funcionarios y una lista de cotejo para la observación directa de la situación actual de la gestión, obteniendo como resultados que la calidad de servicio que brinda la municipalidad es percibida por los usuarios con un promedio de 3.268, lo cual significa que, a su juicio, el servicio solo a veces es de calidad, puesto que no se atiende adecuadamente al usuario, así como no se brindan las guías adecuadas para los procedimientos.
Propuestas tendientes a evitar la proliferación de contratos de empleo público irregulares
Authors: Bosco Gabriel Osvaldo , Aguirre Cinthia Noelia
Published: February 2021

El objetivo central del presente artículo es concluir en que resulta necesario el dictado de una ley que expresamente desaliente a los funcionarios a contratar personal por tiempo determinado con la intención de encubrir una relación de planta permanente, a fin de repeler lo que se denomina «desviación de poder», conforme lo expresado por la Corte Suprema de Justicia de la Nación en el fallo «Ramos». Las diferentes figuras jurídicas a través de las cuales el Estado contrata personal a plazo fijo, son utilizadas frecuentemente por la Administración Pública (Nacional, Provincial o de la Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires), no con la finalidad especifica de la propia norma, sino para cumplir con tareas propias del organismo. En este artículo, se propuso analizar el marco jurídico aplicable a los contratos de trabajo a plazo fijo, para luego focalizar en las diversas reacciones del estado, a través del pronunciamiento del Poder Judicial y, el Poder legislativo. Finalmente, bosquejamos propuestas a fin de evitar la mencionada práctica fraudulenta.
The Epistemology and Ethics of Taklif: An Analysis of the Legal Subjectivity of the Majnūn
Authors: Alaghbri Alla Ahmed
Published: February 2021

Legal subjectivity, particularly that of the majnūn, is an understudied topic that is often only glossed over or nominaly referenced in academic scholarship on Islamic jurisprudence. In attempting to fill this gap in scholarship, this article aims at examining the epistemological and ethical dimensions of legal subjectivity, particulary as it relates to the insane. The article takes the the concept of taklif in classical Ash'arite works of jurisprudence as the center of its analysis of legal subjectivity. Taklif, it characteristics, the relationship between the law giver and the legal subject, and the host of epistemological and ethical assumptions embedded in assigning legal subjectivity to certain individuals and excluding others from it, were among the main issues that classical Muslim jurists grappled with. Understanding the concept of taklif as a form of prescriptive speech, Ash'arite jurist-theologians went on to articulate a theory of legal subjectivity that emphasized the mental capability of the legal subject to comprehend the moral import of  divine prescriptive address and to respond to it with cognizant and intentional obedience. In stressing the value of cognitive ability, Muslim jurists contended that the comprehension of insane individuals fell short of the level necessary to acquire legal subjectivity. Beyond the issue of the legal subjectivity of the insane, this study of the concept of taklif allows us to understand some of the ways Muslim jurists conceived of reason/rationality, the relationship between intentionality, knowledge and action, and the nature of divine speech and its normative value.
Village Community Readiness In Estabilishing A Global Village
Authors: Orbawati Eny Boedi , Sujatmiko Sujatmiko , Fadlurrahman Fadlurrahman , Fauziah Nike Mutiara
Published: February 2021

Global village is a phenomenon that occurs due to advances in information technology where there are no physical boundaries between individuals, communities, and countries. The world is connected through information technology and shares a variety of things. Apart from being a potential threat, the global village phenomenon also provides opportunities for introducing the Indonesian tourism sector to the global community. One of the villages that have the potential to exploit the global village phenomenon, especially in the tourism sector, is Ngargogondo Village, Borobudur Subdistrict, Magelang Regency, Central Java because it has the potential as a language tourism village. This study aims to measure community readiness in realizing a global village in the tourism sector with an analysis of community readiness dimensions in tourism and the global village aspect. This study used a survey approach with 157 respondents who were obtained using cluster random sampling technique. Meanwhile, the indicators used are adopted from the Tri-Ethnic for Prevention Research, with 19 indicators as research instruments. The results showed that the Ngargogondo Village community’s readiness was at the preparation stage (tourism aspect) and pre-planning (global village aspect). This study suggests that to increase community readiness in realizing the global village tourism sector, the Ngargogondo Village government must increase the availability of resources, especially in the tourism aspect, and create a positive climate in the community in response to the development of information technology in Ngargogondo Village.
Energy Diplomacy: Proposed Strategic Roles For State-Owned Enterprises
Authors: Rum Muhammad , Wirawan Bangkit Aditya
Published: February 2021

Natural resources endowment has always been a critical factor in supporting a country‟s development, particularly in the early stage, where firm productivity in industry and service sectors are still low. Such is the case with Indonesia, one of the largest oil-producing countries in the East Asia region, where the oil boom period in the 1970s has been able to fund many development projects. Although oil resource is waning over the last decade, the country is still among the largest producer in the Southeast Asian region, with an also growing demand for the burgeoning industry. This unique role should be able to strengthen Indonesia‟s position at the international level. That is why through this article, we try to propose a better picture of what could be done by scholars to help in formulating Indonesia‟s energy diplomacy. The purpose of this article is to have a look the role of Pertamina, a State-Owned Enterprise, in supporting international diplomacy while also executing their role in strengthening national energy security. Taking examples from other influential oil-seeking countries such as Japan and China and also from oil-producing „petrodollar‟ country such as Saudi Arabia, then Pertamina should actively engage in promoting development in targetted countries and maintaining bilateral ties. The conclusion of this research article is strong correlations between energy, diplomacy, and development assistance among those countries. Those nexuses will help Indonesia in exercising its “free and active” diplomatic stance in resolving various international issues such as the Freedom of Palestine and The Rohingya issue in Myanmar.
The Effect of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer Restraints on Self Compacting Concrete Using Recycled Coarse Aggregates on Concrete Behavior
Authors: Sapeai Martinus Pramanata
Published: February 2021

Utilization of recycled concrete waste as an alternative to natural coarse aggregates in this experiment is in accordance with the concept of sustainable construction, with the self compacting concrete method. The concept of making test specimens is in accordance with real conditions in the field, where aggregates do not go through a cleaning process. Reinforcement of concrete elements using fibers that have been axially loaded has been widely implemented both as a fully wrapped and partially wrapped. There are three variants of mix design with an average compressive strength of 28 days required of 24, 28 and 32 MPa, respectively. There are three variants of CFRP as restraints on concrete cylinders, respectively 50, 75 and 100%. This experimental test shows that the SCC-RCA concept using ACI 211.1 meets the requirements. The effect of CFRP restraint on the compressive strength of SCC-RCA concrete restrained by one layer of CFRP produces the following equation fcc '= fc' + 3,7fl.
Épidémie de COVID-19 chez les travailleurs étrangers temporaires en Colombie-Britannique, entre mars et mai 2020
Authors: Mema Silvina , Frosst Gillian , Hanson Kristen , Yates Cheryl , Anderson Amanda , Jacobson Jennifer , Guinard Caroline , Lima America , Andersen Tannis , Roe Melissa
Published: February 2021

Contexte : Pendant la pandémie de la maladie à coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19), les travailleurs étrangers temporaires ont joué un rôle essentiel dans le maintien de l’approvisionnement alimentaire au Canada, mais ils ont également dû relever un certain nombre de défis qui les ont rendus particulièrement vulnérables à la COVID-19. Cette étude vise à décrire l’enquête épidémiologique et la réponse de la santé publique à une éclosion de COVID-19 chez les travailleurs étrangers temporaires dans un cadre agricole en Colombie-Britannique qui s’est produite entre mars et mai 2020. Méthodes : L’éclosion a été déclarée le 28 mars 2020 à la suite de la détection de deux cas de COVID-19 chez un groupe de 63 travailleurs étrangers temporaires employés dans une pépinière et un centre de jardinage. Les mesures de lutte contre les éclosions ont inclus l’isolement immédiat des personnes atteintes, la recherche de cas par le dépistage et les tests de sensibilisation, la mise en cohorte des travailleurs asymptomatiques et l’amélioration du nettoyage et de la désinfection. L’éclosion a été déclarée terminée le 10 mai 2020. Résultats : Au total, 26 cas de COVID-19 ont été détectés dans le groupe des travailleurs étrangers temporaires, mais aucun cas n’a été décelé parmi les travailleurs locaux. Les personnes atteintes étaient principalement de sexe masculin (77 %) avec un âge médian de 41 ans. Les symptômes se sont manifestés entre le 8 mars et le 9 avril 2020. Un cas a nécessité une hospitalisation d’une nuit en raison d’une pneumonie. Conclusion : Il s’agissait de la première éclosion de COVID-19 en Colombie-Britannique et de la première éclosion de COVID-19 chez les travailleurs étrangers temporaires au Canada. Cette éclosion a commencé avant la mise en œuvre des ordonnances de quarantaine provinciales et fédérales pour les voyageurs internationaux. Une politique provinciale qui exige que les travailleurs étrangers temporaires soient mis en quarantaine dans des locaux financés par le gouvernement avant d’être déployés dans des milieux agricoles a ensuite été élaborée.
Résultats en ce qui concerne les participants autochtones sondés dans le cadre de l'enquête Track auprès des utilisateurs de drogues injectables au Canada, phase 4, 2017 à 2019
Authors: Tarasuk Jill , Sullivan Meghan , Bush Donna , Hui Christian , Morris Melissa , Starlight Tami , Cholette François , Jonah Leigh , Bryson Maggie , Paquette Dana , Masching Renée
Published: February 2021

Contexte : L’enquête Track auprès des utilisateurs de drogues injectables a permis de recueillir des données dans quatorze sites sentinelles au Canada (2017 à 2019). Ces résultats décrivent la prévalence du virus de l’immunodéficience humaine (VIH), de l’hépatite C et des comportements à risque associés à ceux-ci chez les participants autochtones. Méthodes : Des informations sur les caractéristiques sociodémographiques, les déterminants sociaux de la santé, le recours aux services de prévention et au dépistage, la consommation de drogues, les comportements à risque, ainsi que le dépistage, les soins et le traitement du VIH et de l’hépatite C ont été recueillies par l’entremise de questionnaires administrés par un intervieweur. Les échantillons biologiques ont été analysés pour y détecter la présence d’anticorps anti-VIH et anti-hépatite C et l’acide ribonucléique (ARN) de l’hépatite C. Les statistiques descriptives ont été calculées et examinées par un groupe consultatif dirigé par des autochtones, selon l’approche à double perspective (Two-Eyed Seeing). Résultats : Parmi les 2 383 participants, 997 étaient des autochtones (82,9 % étaient des membres des Premières Nations, 14,9 % étaient des Métis et 2,2 % étaient des Inuits). Plus de la moitié (54,5 %) étaient des hommes cisgenres et l’âge moyen était de 38,9 ans. Une grande proportion (84,0 %) des participants ont déclaré que leur santé mentale était de « passable excellente ». Une forte proportion d’entre eux ont été victimes de stigmatisation et de discrimination (90,2 %) ainsi que de violences physiques, sexuelles et/ou psychologiques durant l’enfance (87,5 %) ou de la part d’un partenaire sexuel (78,6 %). Un pourcentage élevé d’entre eux ont déclaré utiliser un programme de distribution de seringues (90,5 %) et avoir été dépisté pour le VIH (87,9 %) et l’hépatite C (87,8 %). La prévalence du VIH était de 15,4 % (78,2 % d’entre eux avaient connaissance de leur statut infectieux) et 36,4 % d’entre eux étaient séropositifs pour l’ARN de l’hépatite C (49,4 % d’entre eux avaient connaissance de leur statut infectieux). Conclusion : L’enquête a révélé des taux élevés de VIH et d’hépatite C. Elle a également révélé des défis liés à l’accès et au maintien des soins et des traitements liés au VIH et à l’hépatite C. Ces renseignements éclairent les stratégies de réduction des méfaits, y compris la nécessité d’accroître la sensibilisation à la prophylaxie d’une manière culturellement pertinente.
Czy zaangażowanie w grę jest racjonalne? Imersja emocjonalna w zabawie, zarządzaniu i sporcie
Authors: Jacko Jan F. , Jacko Małgorzata
Published: February 2021

Praca przedstawia analizę fenomenologiczną doświadczenia imersji emocjonalnej w grach należących do zabawy, sportu i zarządzania. Celem tekstu jest odpowiedź na jego tytułowe pytanie. Przywołano hipotezy wyjaśniające doświadczenie imersji emocjonalnej, które zostały zaczerpnięte z teorii racjonalnego działania. Wskazano dwa rodzaje imersji: ten, który spełnia wymagania racjonalności, i ten, który ich nie spełnia.
Reassessment of Frankish Settlement Patterns - Maps
Authors: Smarandache Bogdan C.
Published: February 2021

Map 1. The Distribution of Frankish and Muslim Populations (1099‐1187)
Map 2. Frankish and Muslim Populations in Samaria (1099‐1187)
Map 3. Frankish and Muslim Populations in Galilee and around the Lebanon (1099‐1187)
Map 4. Frankish Rural and Urban Settlements (1099‐1114)
Map 5. Frankish Rural and Urban Settlements (1115‐1167)
Map 6. Frankish Rural and Urban Settlements (1168‐1187)

Map 7. Christian Pilgrimage Sites (pre‐1099)

Only places with populations that can be reliably dated are pinned here. Diacritical marks are omitted from place names. Question marks indicate sites that are plotted according to approximate coordinates.

Credits (for all maps):
All maps generated using Quantum Geographic Information Systems (QGIS) 3.8 Zanzibar (https://www.qgis.org/en/site/).
Physical features layers downloaded from Natural Earth (http://naturalearthdata.com).
Contours rendered using Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer Global Digital Elevation Model (ASTER GDEM) (NASA/METI/AIST/Japan Spacesystems, and U.S./Japan ASTER Science Team, ASTER Global Digital Elevation Model V003. 2019, distributed by NASA EOSDIS Land Processes DAAC, https://doi.org/10.5067/ASTER/ASTGTM.003. Accessed on 1 November 2020 at https://search.earthdata.nasa.gov).
Roman roads layer, produced by McCormick et al. (2013), downloaded from ‘Mapping Past Societies’ (MAPS), Cambridge, MA, 2007 (https://darmc.harvard.edu, accessed in 2016). Approximate routes of Frankish roads reconstructed using Riley-Smith, The Atlas of the Crusades.
Ponencia - Heivar Yesid Rodríguez Pinzón - Medellín, Colombia - 2015
Authors: Heivar Yesid Rodríguez Pinzón
Published: February 2021

Informe de movilidad académica. Participación X Coloquio de Estadística. Universidad Nacional de Colombia- Sede Medellín