bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Responsabilidade Civil e execução de obra pública
Authors: Molin Neto Walmor Francico
Published: December 2020

O artigo pretende analisar a responsabilidade civil em relação aos danos advindos da execução de obra pública. Para tanto, aborda aspectos da responsabilidade civil do Estado. Posteriormente, passa a discorrer sobre as obras públicas, que buscam a consecução do bem-estar social. Ao final, examina a relação entre os institutos, expondo a aplicação da lei, doutrina e jurisprudência.
A ação de improbidade administrativa e o processo de impeachment: um olhar republicano sobre a responsabilização dos agentes políticos por atos de improbidade administrativa
Authors: Silva Paulo Vitor da
Published: December 2020

Resumo: A responsabilidade dos agentes públicos, sobretudo dos denominados agentes políticos, no trato da res publica é assunto da ordem do dia em nosso cenário sociopolítico atual. Nesse quadro, resta patente a necessidade de se estabelecer mecanismos adequados de fiscalização e controle do poder, devendo o Estado dispor de meios adequados à prevenção e à repressão de comportamentos desviados para garantir sua estabilidade. O presente trabalho tem por escopo estudar a possibilidade de sujeição dos agentes políticos tanto ao regime especial de responsabilidade político-administrativa pelo processo de impeachment quanto ao regime sancionador da Lei de Improbidade Administrativa.
novas disposições sobre segurança jurídica e eficiência na criação e aplicação do direito público sob o enfoque da jurisdição administrativa
Authors: Souza Mendes Marco Aurélio
Published: December 2020

O artigo pretende abordar as modificações introduzidas pela Lei 13655/18 na Lei de Introdução às Normasdo Direito Brasileiro (LINDB). O enfoque do artigo será realizar na primeira seção uma compilaçãode argumentos favoráveis e contrários aos institutos trazidos pela novel legislação. Doutrinas de renomados autores nacionais foram consultadas para o embasamento de algumas posições, tendo em vista que os institutos da lei já eram objeto de estudo desde a época do projeto legislativo. Posteriormente, far-se-á comentários conclusivos sobre retrocessos e incompatibilidades dos novos institutos com base noestudo da Jurisdição Administrativa, nas disposições do Código Modelo Euro-americano de JurisdiçãoAdministrativa e em legislações correlatas de processo administrativo de países da América-latina.
caso do amianto e a dificuldade de decidir sob condição de incerteza
Authors: Antunes de Mello Canto B. da Fontoura Izabel
Published: December 2020

O amianto é uma substância muito utilizada em indústrias, cujos efeitos lesivos às pessoas e ao meio ambiente foram, por muito tempo, questionados. No plano federal, encontra normatização na lei 9.055/95, que autoriza, de forma restrita, atividades com uma das espécies de amianto –a crisotila. O estado do Mato Grosso do Sul, em 2001, editou a lei 2.210, proibindo todas as espécies de amianto. Em sede de ação direta de inconstitucionalidade, o Supremo Tribunal Federal declarou a inconstitucionalidade de diversos dispositivos da referida lei. Em 2007, a lei 12.684, do estado de São Paulo, também proibiu o uso de quaisquer espécies de amianto. Em nova ação direta de inconstitucionalidade, o STF decidiu de forma oposta: considerou a lei constitucional, tendo em vista a evolução dos estudos científicos sobre o amianto e suas espécies e o consenso de que não há uso seguro da substância. O trabalho acompanha a evolução do entendimento do STF sobre o uso do amianto e seus derivados de acordo com a evolução científica, aborda a possibilidade de lei estadual restringir lei federal e examina a necessidade de decisão sob condições de ignorância, incerteza e certeza.
Procedimientos administrativos telemáticos
Authors: Amoni Gustavo Adolfo
Published: December 2020

A Escola Nacional da Magistratura da Venezuela (ENM) é um órgão administrativo judiciário localizado em Caracas, com compêtencia nacional. Para cumprir sua missão, debe usar tecnologias de informação e comunicação. No artigo, parte-se de uma análise dos processos, bem como dos atos administrativos da ENM. Em seguida, abordam-se os argumentos a favor e contra a suficiencia da legislação atual para usar as TIC na Administração, com  especial  destaque das formalidades que devem ser cumpridas de acordo com diversos textos legais do século XXI que modernizaram a lei de 1981, e, ao final, propõe-se como digitalizar a ENM.
Body Composition and Exercise Performance in Youth With a Fontan Circulation: A Bio‐Impedance Based Study
Authors: Powell Adam W. , Wittekind Samuel G. , Alsaied Tarek , Lubert Adam M. , Chin Clifford , Veldtman Gruschen R. , Cordina Rachael , Katz David A. , Mays Wayne A. , Knecht Sandra K. , Opotowsky Alexander R.
Published: December 2020

Background

Adults with a Fontan circulation tend to have myopenia and elevated adiposity when measured by dual energy x‐ray absorptiometry. Bioelectrical impedance analysis is an alternative validated approach to assess body composition. We used bioelectrical impedance analysis to compare body composition between pediatric patients with a Fontan circulation and control individuals without heart disease.

Methods and Results

A retrospective chart review identified all patients aged <22 years with a Fontan circulation who presented for cardiopulmonary exercise testing and bioelectrical impedance analysis from April 2019 to January 2020. Data were compared with control subjects tested during the same period. We studied 47 patients with a Fontan circulation (53% boys; 15±3.1 years) and 165 controls (48% boys; 14.4±2.5 years). Fontan status was associated with shorter height, but similar age, sex, and overall body mass. Patients with Fontan had lower lean body mass (−12.0±22%, Z‐score −0.5±1,
P
=0.005), skeletal muscle mass (−13.6±1.4%; Z‐score, −0.5±1;
P
=0.004), skeletal muscle indexed to height (−10.3±13.3%; Z‐score, −0.5±1;
P
=0.005), and higher percent body fat (+13.8±18.6%; Z‐score, 0.4±1.2;
P
=0.03). Greater skeletal muscle mass was associated with higher peak oxygen consumption (
r
2
=0.52,
P
<0.0001) and oxygen pulse (
r
2
=0.68,
P
<0.0001). Patients who had suffered a late complication (ie, heart transplant referral or evidence of extracardiac organ dysfunction) of the Fontan operation (13 of 47, 27.7%) had lower skeletal muscle mass (
P
=0.048) and higher body fat percentage (
P
=0.003).

Conclusions

The Fontan circulation is associated with marked myopenia and increased adiposity. Higher muscle mass was associated with better exercise capacity. Fontan complications are associated with lower muscle mass and increased adiposity.
Phytolacca americana var. huadongensis (Phytolaccaceae), a new Chinese variety with thyrsoid inflorescences
Authors: LI XIN-HUA , YIN XIAO-MING
Published: December 2020

Phytolacca americana var. huadongensis is described and illustrated as a new taxon from eastern China. This new variety differs from P. americana var. americana and var. rigida by the pendulous or arciform thyrsoid inflorescences and infructescences. This new taxon is also morphologically similar to P. sanguinea and P. thyrsiflora, from which can be distinguished by both the pendulous inflorescence (P. sanguinea and P. thyrsiflora have erect thyrsoid inflorescences), and the 10(11)-carpellate gynoecia (vs. 9-carpellate gynoecia in P. sanguinea and 6–9-carpellate gynoecia in P. thyrsiflora).
Description of the final stadium larva of Bayadera serrata Davies & Yang, 1996 (Odonata: Euphaeidae) from Thailand
Authors: KEETAPITHCHAYAKUL TOSAPHOL SAETUNG , SRIPANYA JUTAMAS , PHLAI-NGAM SIRIKAMON , TUNGPAIROJWONG NISARAT
Published: December 2020

The damselfly genus Bayadera Selys, 1853 comprises 17 species, but the larvae of only four species have been described. Here we describe the final stadium larva of another species—Bayadera serrata Davies & Yang, 1996. Larvae were collected from a headwater stream at Nam Nao National Park, Phetchabun Province, Thailand. The larva of B. serrata is distinguished from congener species following the presence of one to three distinct spines on the genae, two pairs of setae on the ligula, one pair of setae on the ventral side of prementum, the presence of three teeth of the distal end of the labial palp, the presence of a plate-like spine on the gonapophyses, the presence of a row of rod-like setae on the distal end of the tibial comb, the presence of a cluster of long simple setae on the abdominal terga S3–9, and the presence of short terminal filament of the caudal gills. The larvae of genus Bayadera have been compared with other known larvae from family Euphaidae. Key is provided to the genera with known Southeast Asian euphaeid larvae: Anisopleura, Bayadera, and Euphaea.
The efficacy and safety of methylprednisolone in hepatitis B virus-related acute-on-chronic liver failure: a prospective multi-center clinical trial
Authors: Jia Lin , Xue Ran , Zhu Yueke , Zhao Juan , Li Juan , He Wei-Ping , Wang Xiao-Mei , Duan Zhong-Hui , Ren Mei-Xin , Liu Hai-Xia , Xing Hui-Chun , Meng Qing-Hua
Published: December 2020

Background

Hepatitis B virus-related acute-on-chronic liver failure (HBV-ACLF) is a severe condition with high mortality due to lack of efficient therapy. Until now, the use of methylprednisolone (MP) in HBV-ACLF is still controversial. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of MP in HBV-ACLF.

Methods

Totally 171 HBV-ACLF patients from three medical centers were randomly allocated into MP group (83 patients treated with MP intravenously guttae for 7 days plus standard treatment: 1.5 mg/kg/day [day 1–3], 1 mg/kg/day [day 4–5], and 0.5 mg/kg/day [day 6–7]) and control group (88 patients treated with standard treatment). The primary endpoints were 6-month mortality and prognostic factors for 6-month survival. The survival time, cause of death, adverse events, liver function, and HBV DNA replication were analyzed.

Results

The 6-month mortality was significantly lower in MP group than control group [32.4% vs. 42.5%,P = 0.0037]. MP treatment was an independent prognostic factor for 6-month survival [HR (95% CI) 0.547(0.308–0.973);P = 0.040]. Factors associated with reduced 6-month mortality in MP group included HBV DNA and lymphocyte/monocyte ratio (LMR) (P < 0.05). Based on ROC curve, LMR+MELD had a better predictive value for prognosis of HBV-ACLF under MP treatment. No significant difference in HBV DNA replication was observed between groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

MP therapy is an effective and safe clinical strategy in HBV-ACLF, increasing the 6-month survival rate.

Clinical trials registered athttp://www.chictr.org.cnas ChiCTR-TRC-13003113 registered on 16 March 2013.
Validation of an optimized HPLC/UV method for the quantification of flavonoids in lotus
Authors: Lee Ju Sung , Paje Leo Adrianne , Choi Won-Hee , Cho Eun Ju , Kim Hyun Young , Jacinto Sonia D. , Lee Sanghyun
Published: December 2020

Flavonoids present in the leaves of lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) grown in different regions of South Korea (Yeongcheon, Haenam, and Seocheon) and at different harvest times (July to September) were determined. Flavonoid contents in lotus extracts were identified and analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The HPLC results revealed that the flavonoid contents of the lotus extracts varied at different harvesting times, with the highest content in July. Analysis of the flavonoid content in the leaves from the different regions showed the highest contents of isorhamnetin-3-O-glucoside, quercetin 3-O-glucuronide, and quercetin 3-O-glucoside in Yeongcheon, Korea, and highest contnts of rutin, myricetin, kaempferol 3-O-glucoside, and quercetin in Haenam, Korea. The HPLC method was validated and optimized to quantify quercetin 3-O-glucuronide; it showed good linearity (1000–62.5 µg/mL,r2 = 0.9999), accuracy (106%–108%), and precision (RSD ≤ 1.70%). Determination of flavonoid content in lotus is valuable for producing medicinal crops and identifying the optimal sources to increase the quantity of clinically available medicines.
The chemical composition and manufacturing technology of glass beads excavated from the Hetian Bizili site, Xinjiang
Authors: Wang Dong , Wen Rui , Henderson Julian , Hu Xingjun , Li Wenying
Published: December 2020

The Hetian Bizili site in Lop County, located on the southern route of the Silk Road in Xinjiang, China, was a trade and cultural hub between the East and the West in ancient times. In 2016, a large number of glass beads were unearthed from the 40 tombs excavated on this site. In this study we determined the chemical compositions and manufacturing technology of bodies and decorations of twelve glass beads from the M5 tomb of Bizili by using LA-ICP-AES, EDXRF, Raman Spectrometry, and SR-μCT. The chemical compositions of the beads were all Na2O–CaO–SiO2, with plant ash mainly used as a flux. Lead antimonate and lead stannate were used as the opacifying agents. We detected elevated levels of boron and high levels of phosphorus in some beads: this is discussed in the context of the type of flux used and the possible use of a P-rich opacifier. Some of the beads with high contents of aluminum may potentially come from Pakistan. In terms of manufacturing technology, the craftsmen made ‘eye’ beads in different ways and also trail decorated beads.
Influence of sampling intensity on performance of two-phase forest inventory using airborne laser scanning
Authors: Lisańczuk Marek , Mitelsztedt Krzysztof , Parkitna Karolina , Krok Grzegorz , Stereńczak Krzysztof , Wysocka-Fijorek Emilia , Miścicki Stanisław
Published: December 2020

Background

Forest inventories have always been a primary information source concerning the forest ecosystem state. Various applied survey approaches arise from the numerous important factors during sampling scheme planning. Paramount aspects include the survey goal and scale, target population inherent variation and patterns, and available resources. The last factor commonly inhibits the goal, and compromises have to be made. Airborne laser scanning (ALS) has been intensively tested as a cost-effective option for forest inventories. Despite existing foundations, research has provided disparate results. Environmental conditions are one of the factors greatly influencing inventory performance. Therefore, a need for site-related sampling optimization is well founded. Moreover, as stands are the basic operational unit of managed forest holdings, few related studies have presented stand-level results. As such, herein, we tested the sampling intensity influence on the performance of the ALS-enhanced stand-level inventory.

Results

Distributions of possible errors were plotted by comparing ALS model estimates, with reference values derived from field surveys of 3300 sample plots and more than 300 control stands located in 5 forest districts. No improvement in results was observed due to the scanning density. The variance in obtained errors stabilized in the interval of 200–300 sample plots, maintaining the bias within +/− 5% and the precision above 80%. The sample plot area affected scores mostly when transitioning from 100 to 200 m2. Only a slight gain was observed when bigger plots were used.

Conclusions

ALS-enhanced inventories effectively address the demand for comprehensive and detailed information on the structure of single stands over vast areas. Knowledge of the relation between the sampling intensity and accuracy of ALS estimates allows the determination of certain sampling intensity thresholds. This should be useful when matching the required sample size and accuracy with available resources. Site optimization may be necessary, as certain errors may occur due to the sampling scheme, estimator type or forest site, making these factors worth further consideration.
Hydro-mechanical response of excavating tunnel in deep saturated ground
Authors: Prassetyo Simon Heru , Gutierrez Marte
Published: December 2020

Excavating a tunnel in a deep and saturated ground affects the short- and long-term hydro-mechanical (H-M) response in the ground surrounding the opening. However, the interactions between transient pore pressure behavior and the corresponding deformation and stresses in the ground ahead of and behind the tunnel face are still not well understood. This paper investigates the transient H-M response of excavating a tunnel in a deep and saturated ground using a two-dimensional axisymmetric coupled model in the computer code Fast Lagrangian Analysis of Continua (FLAC). The tunnel was advanced in a stepwise excavation procedure consisting of undrained excavation and drained consolidation until the final tunnel face was reached. The final excavated face was then left to consolidate toward the steady-state condition. The main results of the paper are as follows: (1) when simulating a tunnel excavation in deep saturated ground using the convergence-confinement method, the unloading factors should be nonlinear and should consists of the mechanical unloading factor in the form of excavation force and the hydraulic unloading factor in the form of excavation pore pressure. These two unloading factors are necessary because the induced H-M response near the tunnel face is a rather transient response instead of an initial or final response. Moreover, it is observed that the pore pressure dissipation is not linear either with time or with distance to the tunnel face, (2) a relationship between the unloading factors and the distance to the tunnel face should then be established. This relationship is vital because it will provide the timing for tunnel support installation, and (3) the extrusion and the convergence of the advance core could be related through the proposed equations capturing the linear relationships between the face extrusion and its convergence as well as between the core extrusion and its pre-convergence. Through these relationships, the tunnel engineer may be able to estimate the magnitude of the deformation ahead of the face, which will subsequently allow control of the deformation behind the face.
CRISPR/Cas9 from bench to bedside: what clinicians need to know before application?
Authors: Li Zi-Qing , Li Chao-Hong
Published: December 2020

In October 2020, Dr. Emmanuelle Charpentier and Dr. Jennifer Doudna won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for their pioneering work in precise genome editing using the CRISPR technology. Although CRISPR technology has developed rapidly in the last decade, there are still many uncertainties before eventual use in clinical settings. In this mini review, we summarize the current efforts in addressing the limitations of CRISPR technology and future directions.
High fructose corn syrup, excess-free-fructose, and risk of coronary heart disease among African Americans– the Jackson Heart Study
Authors: DeChristopher Luanne R. , Auerbach Brandon J. , Tucker Katherine L.
Published: December 2020

Background

Researchers have sought to explain the black-white coronary heart disease (CHD) mortality disparity that increased from near parity to ~ 30% between 1980 and 2010. Contributing factors include cardiovascular disease prevention and treatment disparities attributable to disparities in insurance coverage. Recent research suggests that dietary/environmental factors may be contributors to the disparity. Unabsorbed/luminal fructose alters gut bacterial load, composition and diversity. There is evidence that such microbiome disruptions promote hypertension and atherosclerosis. The heart-gut axis may, in part, explain the black-white CHD disparity, as fructose malabsorption prevalence is higher among African Americans. Between 1980 and 2010, consumption of excess-free-fructose–the fructose type that triggers malabsorption-exceeded dosages associated with fructose malabsorption (~ 5 g–10 g), as extrapolated from food availability data before subjective, retroactively-applied loss adjustments. This occurred due to an industrial preference shift from sucrose to high-fructose-corn-syrup (HFCS) that began ~ 1980. During this period, HFCS became the main sweetener in US soda. Importantly, there has been more fructose in HFCS than thought, as the fructose-to-glucose ratio in popular sodas (1.9-to-1 and 1.5-to-1) has exceeded generally-recognized-as-safe levels (1.2-to-1). Most natural foods contain a ~ 1-to-1 ratio. In one recent study, ≥5 times/wk. consumers of HFCS sweetened soda/fruit drinks/and apple juice-high excess-free-fructose beverages–were more likely to have CHD, than seldom/never consumers.

Methods

Jackson-Heart-Study data of African Americans was used to test the hypothesis that regular relative to low/infrequent intake of HFCS sweetened soda/fruit drinks increases CHD risk, but not orange juice-a low excess-free-fructose juice. Cox proportional hazards models were used to calculate hazard ratios using prospective data of 3407–3621 participants, aged 21–93 y (mean 55 y).

Results

African Americans who consumed HFCS sweetend soda 5-6x/wk. or any combination of HFCS sweetened soda and/or fruit drinks ≥3 times/day had ~ 2 (HR 2.08, 95% CI 1.03–4.20,P = 0.041) and 2.5–3 times higher CHD risk (HR 2.98, 95% CI 1.15–7.76;P = 0.025), respectively, than never/seldom consumers, independent of confounders. There were no associations with diet-soda or 100% orange-juice, which has a similar glycemic profile as HFCS sweetened soda, but contains a ~ 1:1 fructose-to-glucose ratio.

Conclusion

The ubiquitous presence of HFCS in the food supply may pre-dispose African Americans to increased CHD risk.
Strengthening the migrant-friendliness of Thai health services through interpretation and cultural mediation: a system analysis
Authors: Kosiyaporn Hathairat , Julchoo Sataporn , Phaiyarom Mathudara , Sinam Pigunkaew , Kunpeuk Watinee , Pudpong Nareerut , Allotey Pascale , Chan Zhie X. , Loganathan Tharani , Pocock Nicola , Suphanchaimat Rapeepong
Published: December 2020

Background

In addition to healthcare entitlements, ‘migrant-friendly health services’ in Thailand include interpretation and cultural mediation services which aim to reduce language and cultural barriers between health personnel and migrants. Although the Thai Government started implementing these services in 2003, challenges in providing them still remain. This study aims to analyse the health system functions which support the interpretation and cultural mediation services of migrant health worker (MHW) and migrant health volunteer (MHV) programmes in Thailand.

Methods

In-depth interviews were conducted in two migrant-populated provinces using purposive and snowball sampling. A total of fifty key informants were recruited, including MHWs, MHVs, health professionals, non-governmental organisation (NGO) staff and policy stakeholders. Data were triangulated using information from policy documents. The deductive thematic analysis was classified into three main themes of evolving structure of MHW and MHV programmes, roles and responsibilities of MHWs and MHVs, and supporting systems.

Results

The introduction of the MHW and MHV programmes was one of the most prominent steps taken to improve the migrant-friendliness of Thai health services. MHWs mainly served as interpreters in public facilities, while MHVs served as cultural mediators in migrant communities. Operational challenges in providing services included insufficient budgets for employment and training, diverse training curricula, and lack of legal provisions to sustain the MHW and MHV programmes.

Conclusion

Interpretation and cultural mediation services are hugely beneficial in addressing the health needs of migrants. To ensure the sustainability of current service provision, clear policy regulation and standardised training courses should be in place, alongside adequate and sustainable financial support from central government, NGOs, employers and migrant workers themselves. Moreover, regular monitoring and evaluation of the quality of services are recommended. Finally, a lead agency should be mandated to collaborate with stakeholders in planning the overall structure and resource allocation for the programmes.
Transarterial coil embolization of an aortic root pseudoaneurym in a patient with Loeys-Dietz syndrome: a case report
Authors: D’Ortenzio Robert , Cardarelli-Leite Leandro , Dhatt Ravjot , Saw Jacqueline , Heran Manraj
Published: December 2020

Background

Loeys-Dietz syndrome (LDS) is a rare autosomal-dominant connective tissue disorder characterized by arterial aneurysms and vascular friability. Surgical intervention for LDS patients carries significant morbidity and mortality. Currently, the standard management of aortic root pseudoaneurysms is surgical intervention.

Case presentation

A 20 year old male with LDS presented with a progressively enlarging ascending aortic aneurysm. He underwent a Bentall-type aortic root replacement complicated by a 20 mm aortic root anastomotic pseudoaneurysm. Due to the patient’s high risk for repeat surgical intervention, he underwent successful transarterial coil embolization of his aortic root pseudoaneurysm without complication.

Conclusions

Coil embolization may provide an alternative treatment for patients presenting with aortic root pseudoaneurysm who are high risk for traditional surgical treatment, such as those with connective tissue disease.
Comprehensive approaches for diagnosis, monitoring and treatment of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy
Authors: Fisse Anna Lena , Motte Jeremias , Grüter Thomas , Sgodzai Melissa , Pitarokoili Kalliopi , Gold Ralf
Published: December 2020

Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP) is the most common chronic inflammatory neuropathy. CIDP is diagnosed according to the European Federation of Neurological Societies/Peripheral Nerve Society (EFNS/PNS) criteria, which combine clinical features with the electrophysiological evidence of demyelination. However, firstly, diagnosis is challenging, as some patients e.g. with severe early axonal damage do not fulfil the criteria. Secondly, objective and reliable tools to monitor the disease course are lacking. Thirdly, about 25% of CIDP patients do not respond to evidence-based first-line therapy. Recognition of these patients is difficult and treatment beyond first-line therapy is based on observational studies and case series only. Individualized immunomodulatory treatment does not exist due to the lack of understanding of essential aspects of the underlying pathophysiology.

Novel diagnostic imaging techniques and molecular approaches can help to solve these problems but do not find enough implementation. This review gives a comprehensive overview of novel diagnostic techniques and monitoring approaches for CIDP and how these can lead to individualized treatment and better understanding of pathophysiology.
Extraction and purification of ustiloxin A from rice false smut balls by a combination of macroporous resin and high-speed countercurrent chromatography
Authors: Wang Gang , He Dan , Zhao Fengchun , Hu Junqiang , Lee Yin-Won , Shi Jianrong , Xu Jianhong
Published: December 2020

Rice false smut is an emerging plant disease worldwide. Ustiloxin A (UstA) is the major mycotoxin found in rice false smut balls, which are fungal colonies in rice florets. In this study, a new method consisting of macroporous resin column chromatography and high-speed countercurrent chromatography (HSCCC) was developed for UstA separation. UstA was extracted by a 3.81% HCOOH solution and adsorbed by XAD-4 resin. UstA was then eluted by a 40% methanol solution supplemented with 0.1% trifluoroacetic acid (TFA). Further purification was achieved by HSCCC using a two-phase solvent system consisting of n-butanol/TFA/H2O (1/0.05/1, v/v/v). Under the optimized conditions, 225 mg of UstA was obtained with a purity of 97.39% in a single run, with a final recovery of 65.2%. An inhibitory effect on seed germination of wheat and maize caused by UstA was observed in a preliminary phytotoxicity assay.

Graphical abstract
Patent ductus arteriosus in preterm infants; experience of a tertiary referral neonatal intensive care unit: prevalence, complications, and management
Authors: Soliman Reem M. , Mostafa Fatma Alzahraah , Abdelmassih Antoine , Sultan Elham , Mosallam Dalia
Published: December 2020

Background

Patent ductus arteriosus poses diagnostic and therapeutic dilemma for clinicians, diagnosis of persistent PDA, and determination of its clinical and hemodynamic significance are challenging. The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of PDA in preterm infants admitted to our NICU, to report cardiac and respiratory complications of PDA, and to study the management strategies and their subsequent outcomes.

Result

Echocardiography was done for 152 preterm babies admitted to neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) on day 3 of life. Eighty-seven (57.2%) preterms had PDA; 54 (62.1%) non-hemodynamically significant PDA (non-hsPDA), and 33 (37.9%) hemodynamically significant PDA. Hemodynamically significant PDA received medical treatment (paracetamol 15 mg/kg/6 h IV for 3 days). Follow-up echocadiography was done on day 7 of life. Four babies died before echo was done on day 7. Twenty babies (68.9%) achieved closure after 1st paracetamol course. Nine babies received 2nd course paracetamol. Follow-up echo done on day 11 of life showed 4 (13.7%) babies achieved successful medical closure after 2nd paracetamol course; 5 babies failed closure and were assigned for surgical ligation. The group of non-hsPDA showed spontaneous closure after conservative treatment. Pulmonary hemorrhage was significantly higher in hsPDA group. Mortality was higher in hsPDA group than non-hsPDA group.

Conclusion

Echocardiographic evaluation should be done for all preterms suspected clinically of having PDA. We should not expose vulnerable population of preterm infants to medication with known side effects unnecessarily; we should limit medical closure of PDA to hsPDA. Paracetamol offers several important therapeutic advantages options being well tolerated and having more favorable side effects profile.
The mean severity score and its correlation with common computed tomography chest manifestations in Egyptian patients with COVID-2019 pneumonia
Authors: Hafez Mona A. F.
Published: December 2020

Background

Computed tomography (CT) is one of the main diagnostic tools for early detection and management of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia. This study aims to highlight the commonly encountered CT findings in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia in Egypt and the mean severity score and its correlation with the imaging findings. This study involved 200 patients with pathologically confirmed COVID-19 infection; non-contrast CT chest was performed for all cases; in addition, CT findings and severity score (CT-SS) were then assessed using descriptive analysis, and the correlation between the CT findings and disease severity was assessed.

Results

The ground-glass densities and peripheral adhesions were the most typical CT findings. Prominent interlobular septations; bronchial thickening/dilatation; CT signs of crazy-paving, halo, and reversed halo; and reactive mediastinal lymphadenopathy were significantly correlated with disease severity. The mean CT-SS of Egyptian patients with COVID-19 pneumonia was 11.2 (mild to moderate severity).

Conclusion

Multislice CT played a vital role in the early identification of Egyptian patients with COVID-19 pneumonia. The assessment of the CT severity score of COVID-19 is essential for the extent of pneumonia involvement to help clinicians achieve the purpose of early diagnosis and accurate treatment.
Chest CT imaging features of COVID-19 and its correlation with the PaO2/FiO2 ratio: a multicenter study in Upper Egypt
Authors: Attia Noha M. , Othman Moustafa H. M.
Published: December 2020

Background

The main challenge in managing COVID-19 pandemic is containment of the infection by early detection of the disease and wide dissemination of diagnostic tests with high sensitivity and specificity. Various imaging features were identified by chest CT with different patterns from early disease to diffuse disease with complications. However, CT cannot be performed for all patients. The arterial oxygen partial pressure/fraction of inspired oxygen (PaO2/FiO2) ratio is evaluated as a rapid and widely available test for the preliminary assessment of disease severity. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical and chest CT imaging features of COVID-19 in Egyptian patients as well as assess the correlation between the chest CT total severity score and the PaO2/FiO2 ratio to determine its value for preliminary assessment of disease severity.

Results

The most common symptoms were fever (83.2%), dry cough (77%), malaise (68.8%), prolonged headaches (48.5%), and dyspnea (37.6%). CT was positive in 79.2% of the patients. The CT features at presentation were ground-glass opacities only (40%), ground-glass opacities with consolidation (34.4%), and consolidation only (25.6%). Associated findings included crazy paving (17.5%), interlobular septal thickening (47.5%), air bronchogram (15%), bronchiectasis (12.8%), fibrous bands (8.1%), vascular enlargement within the lesion (45.6%), nodules (6.8%), pericardial thickening (5%), and pleural thickening (24.7%). The lesions were typically multilobar (50.5%), posterior (58.1%) with peripheral and central distribution (41.9%). Moderate negative correlation was observed between the CT total lung severity score and PaO2/FiO2 ratio with r = − 0.42 and P < 0.001.

Conclusion

The most common pattern of COVID-19 pneumonia in multiple quarantine hospitals was peripheral and central ground-glass opacities with bilateral multilobe posterior involvement and fever was the most common symptom. PaO2/FiO2 ratio has a moderate negative correlation with the CT total severity score and thus can be used in the preliminary assessment of disease severity.
Impact of workplace ostracism on knowledge hoarding: mediating role of defensive silence and moderating role of experiential avoidance
Authors: Khalid Bilal , Iqbal Rimsha , Hashmi Syed Danial
Published: December 2020

The purpose of this study is to investigate the underlying mechanism through which knowledge hoarding is triggered among ostracized employees at workplace. Drawing on conservation of resource theory, the study investigates the mediating role of defensive silence in this relationship. Further, the study also examines the moderating role of experiential avoidance between workplace ostracism and defensive silence. Using multi-layered and convenient sampling technique, data were collected from 225 employees working in the hospitality industry in Pakistan. The results revealed that workplace ostracism significantly influences employees’ knowledge hoarding behavior both directly and through defensive silence. Furthermore, contrary to the expectation, the combined effect of workplace ostracism and experiential avoidance on defensive silence was found insignificant, which we have discussed. The study provides insights for managers to break the knowledge hoarding cycle and create new models for interaction and knowledge sharing among employees at workplace.
Species composition of arthropods on six understory plant species growing in high and low light conditions
Authors: Karolewski Piotr , Łukowski Adrian , Adamczyk Dawid , Żmuda Michał , Giertych Marian J. , Mąderek Ewa
Published: December 2020

The quality of leaves as food for insects is affected both by plant species and the light conditions present during growth. Little information exists concerning the impact of these factors on the diversity of insects that live in the forest understory. We studied arthropod fauna on six understory plant species commonly occurring in Europe. Different groups of herbivorous insects were identified, as well as predatory insects and arachnids. We analysed the influence of both plant species and light conditions during growth (low light; high light) on the species spectrum, and the number of insect specimens present. The resulting data were investigated in relation to the susceptibility of plant leaves to feeding by folivorous insects, as determined in earlier studies. We compared the similarity in species diversity, based on the Sørensen’s coefficient, and discussed the potential causes of observed differences in leaf damages. We found a total of 153 arthropod taxa on studied plants, under both light conditions. Corylus avellana and Prunus serotina, species characterized by greater leaf damage, have a wider diversity of arthropod species, and a greater number of herbivorous insects. Generally, light conditions had a greater effect on arthropod abundance than on species diversity. For two plant species, C. avellana and P. serotina, light conditions strongly, but reversely, influenced the total number of insects and, thus, the extent of leaf damage. The number and abundance of zoophagous species, and ratio to folivores (except C. avellana) are associated more with plant species than with light conditions
First shallow record of Bathyphysa conifera (Studer, 1878) (Siphonophora, Cystonectae), a live specimen in the Strait of Gibraltar. Worldwide species distribution review.
Authors: MAPSTONE GILLIAN M. , DIOSDADO GILBERTO , GUERRERO ELENA
Published: December 2020

The rarely observed cystonect siphonophore Bathyphysa conifera was recorded for the first time in shallow depth water (- 16 m) as a live specimen, at the entrance to the Mediterranean Sea by SCUBA divers. It is a delicate oceanic species, with earlier records coming mostly from deep water, where it readily adheres to deep sea fishing cables and nets, causing painful stings to fishermen. Deep water sightings from ROVs include in the North Atlantic, off Angola, the Gulf of Mexico and Monterey Canyon. The present specimen was swimming actively by contracting and expanding its stem, in a yo-yo movement. A review of all reliable records for this species worldwide has been carried out in order to gain a better knowledge of the present known distribution of this species, both geographical and bathymetric. Bathyphysa conifera may possibly represent an important component of the food web and be perhaps also a competitor to fish in the regions it inhabits.
biogitflow: development workflow protocols for bioinformatics pipelines with git and GitLab
Authors: Kamoun Choumouss , Roméjon Julien , de Soyres Henri , Gallois Apolline , Girard Elodie , Hupé Philippe
Published: December 2020

The use of a bioinformatics pipeline as a tool to support diagnostic and theranostic decisions in the healthcare process requires the definition of detailed development workflow guidelines. Therefore, we implemented protocols that describe step-by-step all the command lines and actions that the developers have to follow. Our protocols capitalized on two powerful and widely used tools: git and GitLab. They address two use cases: a nominal mode to develop a new feature in the bioinformatics pipeline and a hotfix mode to correct a bug that occurred in the production environment. The protocols are available as a comprehensive documentation at https://biogitflow.readthedocs.io and the main concepts, steps and principles are presented in this report.
Neuropsychological rehabilitation interventions for people with an acquired brain injury. A protocol for a systematic review of economic evaluation
Authors: Mitchell Eileen , Ahern Elayne , Saha Sanjib , Trepel Dominic
Published: December 2020

Background: New emerging evidence has demonstrated the need for effective interventions to help people living with an acquired brain injury (ABI). Evidence on cost-effectiveness, which can help inform use of limited resources, is scarce in this area and therefore the purpose of this systematic review is to critically appraise and consolidate the current evidence on economic evaluations of ABI rehabilitation interventions.

Methods: Systematic review methodology will be applied to identify, select and extract data from published economic evaluation studies (trial-based, non-trial based, simulation-based, decision model and trial-based model economic evaluations) of ABI treatment interventions in adults. A systematic literature search will be conducted on the following electronic databases: EMBASE, Econlit, CINAHL, Medline, the National Health Service Economic Evaluation Database and PsyclNFO. This review will only include cost-effectiveness analysis studies (e.g., cost per life year gained), cost-benefit and cost minimisation analyses in which the designs were randomised controlled trials (RCTs), non-RCT studies, cost-utility analyses (e.g., cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained or cost per disability-adjusted life year averted), cohort studies, and modelling studies. Only studies that were published in the english language, associated with adults who have an ABI will be included. There will be no restrictions on perspective, sample size, country, follow-up duration or setting. The search strategy terms will include the following: acquired brain injury, brain*; cost*; or cost–benefit analysis*. Following data extraction, a narrative summary and tables will be used to summarize the characteristics and results of included studies.

Discussion: The findings from this review will be beneficial to health policy decision makers when examining the evidence of economic evaluations in this field. In addition, it is anticipated that this review will identify gaps in the current economic literature to inform future-related research.

Systematic review registration: PROSPERO CRD42020187469 (25th June 2020).
Economic security. Practicum
Authors: Gadzhiev Nazirhan , Gazimagomedov Magomed , Doronin Andrey , Ivlicheva Natal'ya , Konovalenko Sergey , Lebedev Sergey , Pilyugin Nikolay , Simonenko Dmitriy , Sokratova Irina , Trofimov Mihail , Harada Georgiy
Published: December 2020

The textbook contains situational tasks and practical tasks and can be used in organizing practical training on the main topics of the discipline. In particular, the tasks presented in the workshop reveal the specifics of the discipline on such problematic issues as financial security of the state, ensuring economic security in the framework of monetary policy, assessing tax policy trends from the standpoint of economic security criteria, social policy in the strategy of economic security, economic security of regions and business entities. Meets the Federal state educational standard of higher education in the specialty 38.05.01 " Economic security (specialty level)". It is intended for cadets and students studying in higher educational institutions, including educational organizations of the Ministry of internal Affairs of the Russian Federation.
Design of analog and digital devices
Authors: Bobyr' Maksim , Titov Vitaliy , Ivanov Vladimir
Published: December 2020

The textbook contains the material necessary for the formation of students ' knowledge of the basics of analog and digital circuitry and the principles of building digital nodes, instilling skills in the development and design of digital devices, as well as performing practical work and a course project in the discipline "electrical Engineering, electronics and circuit engineering". Methods of calculation of analog circuits and synthesis of discrete devices of combinational type and automata with memory are considered. Examples of calculation of analog circuits and implementation of digital devices for various purposes on integrated circuits are given. Meets the requirements of Federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation. For students of higher education institutions studying in the field of training 09.03.01 "computer Science and engineering". It can be useful for students of the areas of training "Design and technology of electronic means", "Biotechnical systems and technologies"and" Information security".
Rational use of personal protective equipment in medical organizations in an unfavorable epidemiological situation ...
Authors: Berezina Natal'ya , Cherkashin Mihail , Berezin Nikita
Published: December 2020

The training manual discusses the organization of the use of personal protective equipment in the context of a new coronavirus infection (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic. It is intended for health care organizers, doctors of all specialties, and other medical professionals who provide care to patients with suspected or confirmed coronavirus infection.
Building and Researching the Game Model of Interaction Between Two Small Enterprises in Different Information Conditions
Authors: Vlasov Dmitriy
Published: December 2020

Taking into account the dynamically changing information conditions, the nature of interaction and the conditions for the exchange of information of economic agents (players) require increased attention in the context of improving the quality of decisions made. The mechanisms presented in this article for building an expanded game model between two small enterprises, taking into account the dynamics of prices, demand and consumer preferences for the manufactured products, as well as recommendations for choosing the criterion for finding the optimal production strategy, can be useful to risk managers, practice economists and managers. The calculations show the correctness of the proposed method of building an extended game model, the use of which allows overcoming the weaknesses of the basic game model and obtaining results that are more in demand in decision-making practice.
Analysis of the Natural Movement of the Population of the Tula Region: Problems and Prospects
Authors: Kalyanov Aleksandr , Darymov I.
Published: December 2020

The article raises such an acute problem as the demographic situation in our country, including in the Tula region. The urgency of this problem can not cause any doubts. Having touched upon various aspects of life and the global practice of solving problems with the reproduction of the population, the authors considered this problem both at the micro level and in comparison with other states. The authors proved that the quality of life in the state directly affects the natural growth of the population, if you do not take into account the traditions and customs of specific countries. The authors propose ways of solving the demographic problems of the population of the Tula region.

The research base is the website of the Federal State Statistics Service. In preparing the article, the methods of analysis of grouped statistical data were used.
The Development of the Tools of Fiscal Policy to Stimulate Economic Growth in the Russian Federation
Authors: Alandarov R. , Zayceva E.
Published: December 2020

Currently, the Russian economy is facing a number of exogenous and endogenous challenges that hinder economic growth and development. The budget policy of the state can, through the use of fiscal instruments, support declining business activity, which, on the one hand, requires an increase in public spending, including investment, and, on the other hand, a reduction in the tax burden. The paper presents an analysis of the most successful examples of using fiscal tools in modern Russia.

The purpose of the article is to analyze the domestic experience of using fiscal instruments and identify the most effective tools for stimulating economic growth.

Statistical methods, a systematic approach, and integral analysis were used as the methodological basis of the study.

Having studied the best practices of applying fiscal instruments in Russia, the authors identified the most effective tax and budget instruments. Conclusions are drawn about the greatest effectiveness of the application of proportional taxation of personal income and reduction of indirect tax rates. Among the budget instruments, spending on R & D financing, increasing budget investment in infrastructure projects, and human capital are of particular importance. Based on the results of the study, theoretical and practical proposals for adjusting the current budget policy of Russia are formulated.