bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clonal spread of carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae among patients at admission and discharge at a Vietnamese neonatal intensive care unit
Authors: Berglund Björn , Hoang Ngoc Thi Bich , Lundberg Ludwig , Le Ngai Kien , Tärnberg Maria , Nilsson Maud , Bornefall Elin , Khu Dung Thi Khanh , Welander Jenny , Le Hai Thanh , Olson Linus , Dien Tran Minh , Nilsson Lennart E. , Larsson Mattias , Hanberger Håkan
Published: November 2021

Background

The increasing prevalence of carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) is a growing problem globally, particularly in low- to middle-income countries (LMICs). Previous studies have shown high rates of CRE colonisation among patients at hospitals in LMICs, with increased risk of hospital-acquired infections.

Methods

We isolated carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) from faecal samples collected in 2017 from patients at admission and discharge at a Vietnamese neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). 126 CRKP were whole-genome sequenced. The phylogenetic relationship between the isolates and between clinical CRKP isolates collected in 2012–2018 at the same hospital were investigated.

Results

NDM-type carbapenemase-(61%) and KPC-2-encoding genes (41%) were the most common carbapenem resistance genes observed among the admission and discharge isolates. Most isolates (56%) belonged to three distinct clonal clusters of ST15, carrying blaKPC-2, blaNDM-1 and blaNDM-4, respectively. Each cluster also comprised clinical isolates from blood collected at the study hospital. The most dominant ST15 clone was shown to be related to isolates collected from the same hospital as far back as in 2012.

Conclusions

Highly resistant CRKP were found colonising admission and discharge patients at a Vietnamese NICU, emphasising the importance of continued monitoring. Whole-genome sequencing revealed a population of CRKP consisting mostly of ST15 isolates in three clonally related clusters, each related to blood isolates collected from the same hospital. Furthermore, clinical isolates collected from previous years (dating back to 2012) were shown to likely be clonally descended from ST15 isolates in the largest cluster, suggesting a successful hospital strain which can colonise inpatients.
Tensile Performance, Lap-Splice Length and Behavior of Concretes Confined by Prefabricated C-FRCM System
Authors: Choi Donguk , Vachirapanyakun Sorrasak , Ochirbud Munckhtuvshin , Naidangjav Undram , Ha Sangsu , Kim Youngho
Published: November 2021

Results of an experimental study aimed to evaluate tensile performance, lap-splice length of carbon fabric-reinforced cementitious matrix system (C-FRCM), and performance of concretes confined by C-FRCM are presented. Green high-strength mortar was used in this study which actively utilized recycled fine aggregate and fine waste glass powder to partially substitute cementitious binder. Test plans were developed in due consideration of prefabricated C-FRCM for strengthening concrete columns: 14 tensile tests, 12 lap-splice tests, and 6 uniaxial compression tests of plain concrete specimens confined by C-FRCM were performed. Test variable for the tensile test was number of fabric layers (one or two layers). Nominal strength of the C-FRCM with two fabric layers was 11.0 MPa while it was 7.4 MPa with one fabric layer in tension. Full strength of the carbon fabric was developed in all tensile tests while the C-FRCM with two fabric layers (with axial fiber amount = 0.59% by vol.) showed pseudo-ductile behavior. From the lap-splice tests in direct tension, an increased lap-splice length was required for the double fabrics over that for the single fabrics. The required splice length was about 170 mm for the single fabrics and it was about 310 mm for the double fabrics. Plain concrete cylinders and prismatic specimens were laterally confined by C-FRCM and subjected to uniaxial compression. All test results showed strain-softening behavior. Compressive strength increased by 10–41% while ductility also increased by 6–45% indicating applicability of the prefabricated type C-FRCM in the future.
Efficient parallel derivation of short distinguishing sequences for nondeterministic finite state machines using MapReduce
Authors: Elghadyry Bilal , Ouardi Faissal , Lotfi Zineb , Verel Sébastien
Published: November 2021

Distinguishing sequences are widely used in finite state machine-based conformance testing to solve the state identification problem. In this paper, we address the scalability issue encountered while deriving distinguishing sequences from complete observable nondeterministic finite state machines by introducing a massively parallel MapReduce version of the well-known Exact Algorithm. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to tackle this task using the MapReduce approach. First, we give a concise overview of the well-known Exact Algorithm for deriving distinguishing sequences from nondeterministic finite state machines. Second, we propose a parallel algorithm for this problem using the MapReduce approach and analyze its communication cost using Afrati et al. model. Furthermore, we conduct a variety of intensive and comparative experiments on a wide range of finite state machine classes to demonstrate that our proposed solution is efficient and scalable.
Associations between dynamic-contrast enhanced MRI and tumor infiltrating lymphocytes and tumor-stroma ratio in head and neck squamous cell cancer
Authors: Meyer Hans-Jonas , Höhn Anne Kathrin , Surov Alexey
Published: November 2021

Objectives

The present study used dynamic-contrast enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI) to elucidate possible associations with tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL), stroma ratio and vimentin expression in head and neck squamous cell cancer (HNSCC).

Methods

Overall, 26 patients with primary HNSCC of different localizations were involved in the study. DCE-MRI was obtained on a 3 T MRI and analyzed with a whole lesion measurement using a histogram approach. TIL- and vimentin-expression was calculated on bioptic samples before any form of treatment. P16 staining was used to define HPV-status.

Results

Tumor-stroma ratio correlated with entropy derived from Ktrans (r = − 0.52, p = 0.0071) and with kurtosis derived from Ve (r = − 0.53, p = 0.0058).

Several Ve derived parameters correlated with expression of TIL within the stroma compartment. TIL within the tumor compartment correlated with entropy derived from Ktrans (r = 0.39, p = 0.047), p90 derived from Ve (r = 0.41, p = 0.036) and skewness derived from Ve (r = 0.41, p = 0.037). Furthermore, these associations were different between HPV positive and negative tumors.

Conclusions

DCE-MRI might be able to reflect tumor compartments and TIL expression in HNSCC. The most promising parameters were values derived from Ktrans and Ve.
Geochemical characteristics of back-arc basin lower crust and upper mantle at final spreading stage of Shikoku Basin: an example of Mado Megamullion
Authors: Akizawa Norikatsu , Ohara Yasuhiko , Okino Kyoko , Ishizuka Osamu , Yamashita Hiroyuki , Machida Shiki , Sanfilippo Alessio , Basch Valentin , Snow Jonathan E. , Sen Atlanta , Hirauchi Ken-ichi , Michibayashi Katsuyoshi , Harigane Yumiko , Fujii Masakazu , Asanuma Hisashi , Hirata Takafumi
Published: November 2021

This paper explores the evolutional process of back-arc basin (BAB) magma system at final spreading stage of extinct BAB, Shikoku Basin (Philippine Sea) and assesses its tectonic evolution using a newly discovered oceanic core complex, the Mado Megamullion. Bulk and in-situ chemical compositions together with in-situ Pb isotope composition of dolerite, oxide gabbro, gabbro, olivine gabbro, dunite, and peridotite are presented. Compositional ranges and trends of the igneous and peridotitic rocks from the Mado Megamullion are similar to those from the slow- to ultraslow-spreading mid-ocean ridges (MOR). Since the timing of the Mado Megamullion exhumation corresponds to the very end of the Shikoku Basin opening, the magma supply was subdued and highly episodic, leading to extreme magma differentiation to form ferrobasaltic, hydrous magmas. In-situ Pb isotope composition of magmatic brown amphibole in the oxide gabbro is identical to that of depleted source mantle for mid-ocean ridge basalt (MORB). In the context of hydrous BAB magma genesis, the magmatic water was derived solely from the MORB source mantle. The distance from the back-arc spreading center to the arc front increased away through maturing of the Shikoku Basin to cause MORB-like magmatism. After the exhumation of Mado Megamullion along detachment faults, dolerite dikes intruded as a post-spreading magmatism. The final magmatism along with post-spreading Kinan Seamount Chain volcanism were introduced around the extinct back-arc spreading center after the opening of Shikoku Basin by residual mantle upwelling.
The differential for chest pain: when the most common cause is not the answer-a case of de novo esophageal bezoar
Authors: Climaco Kevin , Roubik Daniel , Gorrell Robert
Published: November 2021

Background

Having a broad differential and knowing how to manage the different possibilities in a patient with chest pain is important. Esophageal bezoars are rare entities and are even less common in patients without any recent hospitalizations, known achalasia, or nasogastric tubes. Despite their rarity, having it in one’s differential, and knowing how to manage it is important.

Case presentation

This case presents a patient with mega-esophagus secondary to an esophageal bezoar; and runs through the gamut of morbid chest pathophysiology, its differential, work-up, and management. The case is interesting in that the patient’s initial presentation brings to mind a bevy of feared chest issues to include myocardial infarction, dissection, pulmonary embolus, achalasia, and perforation.

Conclusion

This clinical case highlights more than just the rare diagnosis of esophageal bezoar. It also goes through initial resuscitation, key concerns, “can’t miss diagnoses”, and finally discusses the feared end state of an esophageal perforation.
“PPI? That sounds like Payment Protection Insurance”: Reflections and learning from a substance use and homelessness study Experts by Experience group
Authors: Foster Rebecca , Carver Hannah , Wallace Jason , Dunedin Alex , Burridge Stan , Foley Philip , Pauly Bernie , Parkes Tessa
Published: November 2021

Background

Patient and Public Involvement in research is important for citizenship, accountability and transparency, and has the practical benefit of helping to ensure its quality and applicability. Involving members of the public in research is becoming increasingly commonplace, in the UK and internationally. It is essential that public involvement is inclusive of individuals and their diverse life experiences, including challenging experiences that may be associated with stigma and social exclusion. The involvement of people with lived/living experience of substance use and homelessness in research is increasing in response to increased recognition of the importance of inclusion and the benefits conferred to research.

Main body

In this commentary, we share our own experiences of being part of a Patient and Public Involvement group that was convened during a feasibility study of a peer-delivered harm reduction intervention. We are a diverse group but share experience of the field of substance use/homelessness, as people with lived/living experience, and as researchers and practitioners. We share our reflections and learning, as well as offer recommendations for researchers working in our field. Our group worked together to make a positive and deliberate contribution to the study. This did not happen by chance but required the development of mutual trust and respect, with each member having a commitment to support the group for its two-year duration.

Short conclusion

It is important for researchers to appreciate that meaningful Patient and Public Involvement is very valuable but requires a commitment from all involved. Regarding our field of substance use and homelessness specifically, it is essential that people with these experiences have opportunities to contribute to research and can do so in a meaningful way. People with lived/living experience are able to bring to life the rich tapestry of others’ experiences. However, the involvement must be neither tokenistic nor indifferent to the wider challenges common to these experiences.
A case of Sphingomonas paucimobilis causing peritoneal dialysis-associated peritonitis and review of the literature
Authors: Kinoshita Chiharu , Matsuda Koichi , Kawai Yumiko , Hagiwara Takayuki , Okada Akane
Published: November 2021

Background

Peritoneal dialysis (PD)-associated peritonitis caused by Sphingomonas paucimobilis (S. paucimobilis) is very rare, and most of the characteristics of such cases are still unknown.

Case presentation

An 80-year-old Japanese woman on PD was diagnosed with PD-associated peritonitis and received ceftazidime and cefazolin. The number of cells in the peritoneal dialysate decreased quickly. However, because S. paucimobilis was detected, the antibiotic was changed to meropenem according to the susceptibility test results. She was treated with meropenem for two weeks and discharged. After 21 days, she was hospitalized for relapsing peritonitis. S. paucimobilis was detected again, and improvement after the administration of meropenem was poor, eventually resulting in catheter removal.

Conclusions

S. paucimobilis may be resistant to empirical antibiotics; furthermore, catheter removal may still be required, even with sensitive-antibiotic treatment.
Deficits in central auditory processing among migraine patients
Authors: Tawfik Somia , Amin Randa , Ibrahim Sahar , Rahman Tayseer Taha Abdel
Published: November 2021

Background

Migraine is a neurological disease associated with abnormal excitability in visual, somatosensory, and motor cortex. This study aimed to verify and compare auditory processing performance in migraine patients with and without dizziness and healthy controls.

Results

Sixty subjects were divided into 3 groups: control group, twenty normal healthy subjects, and study group I (twenty subjects diagnosed with migraine) and study group II (twenty subjects diagnosed with vestibular migraine). They were evaluated using the Central Auditory Processing Questionnaire for adults, tympanometry, pure tone audiometry, Psychophysical Central Auditory Tests, including Arabic Speech Intelligibility in Noise Test for adults, Arabic Dichotic Digit Test [version II], Gap in Noise Test, Duration Pattern Test, and Arabic Memory Tests. No significant difference was found between the two study groups I and II, but the significant difference was found between the study groups and the control group in all central auditory test results. Statistically significant difference was found between the control group and study groups I and II regarding all memory tests. The highest percentage of abnormality was present in temporal resolution and selective auditory attention in both study groups. There was no significant statistical correlation between the number of attacks/month and central auditory test results. There was no significant statistical correlation between the frequency of attacks in VM patients and central auditory test results.

Conclusions

Patients with migraine and vestibular migraine had an inferior performance in all psychophysical central auditory tests when compared with control. Also, there was no significant difference between the 2 study groups regarding central auditory test results which may support that both migraine with and without dizziness have the same pathophysiology.
Prognosis Comparison Between Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy and Total Mastectomy in Breast Cancer: A Case-Control Study After Propensity Score Matching
Authors: Fu Mengdie , Chen Qitong , Zeng Liyun , Hong Tao , Zou Qiongyan , Yuan Yunchang , Yi Wenjun
Published: November 2021

Background

Currently, the operation rate of nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) is increasing. However, the long-term prognosis of NSM is not well documented. We utilized the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database to analyze the long-term prognosis of NSM compared with total mastectomy (TM).

Methods

Population-level data of female breast cancer patients treated with NSM and TM were extracted from 1998 to 2016 from the SEER database. Propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to reduce the influence of selection bias and confounding variables in comparisons. Kaplan-Meier analysis, log-rank test, and Cox proportional hazard regression were performed.

Results

A total of 5765 patients underwent NSM, which increased from 266 in 2004–2009 to 5370 in 2010–2016. A total of 134,528 patients underwent TM, and the number of patients undergoing TM continued to decline. The overall survival (OS) and breast cancer-specific survival (BCSS) were similar between the NSM group and the TM group (P = 0.058 and 0.87, respectively). For OS, subgroup analysis showed that patients with age ≥ 46, White race, median household income ≥ $70,000, hormone receptor-positive, and HER2 negative had a better prognosis for treatment with NSM. There was no significant difference in BCSS between the NSM group and the TM group.

Conclusions

In recent years, the clinical application of NSM has been increasing. NSM is a proper procedure for breast cancer patients to achieve long-term survival.
Appreciative Inquiry and Virtual Technology: An Improbable Pair for Accelerating the Wholeness Principle
Authors: Cruz Teller Tanya , Sutton Sherri
Published: November 2021

In today’s environment it is easier than ever to host a virtual event, and gather stakeholders and sponsors to attend webinars or engage in recorded sessions. At the same time, there is also a great need for human connection, wholeness, and the ability to bring diverse and broad groups of people together for positive change. This environment is the perfect accelerator for Appreciative Inquiry practitioners to intentionally evolve using new technologies and virtual tools.
Integrating Appreciative Inquiry into a Postgraduate Nurse Leadership Curriculum: Creating a Student Experience
Authors: Waterworth Susan , Jacobs Stephen
Published: November 2021

Identifying what is working well in healthcare requires a different mindset from the traditional problemsolving approach. Integrating Appreciative Inquiry into healthcare can bring out the best in individuals, teams and the organisation as a whole. This paper presents our approach to educating nurse leaders about AI practice, by using AI to create a community of leadership and management practice in a postgraduate nursing course on leadership and management in health care.
Time to Act: Portland State University’s Journey to Transformation for Racial Justice and Equity
Authors: Lambert Ame , Johnson Amri , Royal Cathy , Silbert Jen , Silbert Tony
Published: November 2021

More than 900 members of the Portland State University community created a vision for a just and equitable campus at the Time to Act Fall 2020 Equity Summit. Five cross-campus task forces then recommended continuing actions to make that vision a reality.
Digital Appreciative Inquiry: A Whole New Relational Experience
Authors: Tollec Bernard
Published: November 2021

Digital technology can offer a brand new relational experience and an extraordinary opportunity to work in the wholeness of Appreciative Inquiry. In this article, you will find both examples of where wholeness has been experienced to the fullest, sometimes surprisingly, and also some keys to living – and helping your participants live – a joyful and effective wholeness.
Appreciative Inquiry: An Inclusive Method for Inclusive Internationalisation
Authors: Weissova Lucie , Johansson Ann
Published: November 2021

Higher education institutions’ work with internationalisation is often managed by a small group of people who decide about the strategic direction and priorities. But what happens if we open the door for discussion to all staff? This article describes how a virtual Appreciative Inquiry summit can support the implementation of the ‘Internationalisation at Home’ strategy at the institution-wide level.
Realizing a Whole-Team Destiny at the Center for Trauma-Resilient Communities
Authors: Loftis Sally
Published: November 2021

AI practitioner Sally Loftis works with a nationwide group of trauma-informed consultants. Exponential growth created a need to virtually hire and onboard additional trainers and consultants. This article and video portray how we used technology in the Covid- 19 pandemic to build an appreciative inquiry team and a strengths-based process. The video includes participant and facilitator feedback.
A Disruption in Personal Development: Using Appreciative Inquiry During the Pandemic to Identify Aspirations and Inspire Action
Authors: Lord Wendi
Published: November 2021

During the pandemic, individuals became isolated and often unemployed, compounding the need for affordable, self-service content that facilitates personal growth and well-being. A journey of personal change which reinforces Appreciative Inquiry’s wholeness principle is being developed in a program that guides users in identifying aspirations and inspiring action towards them. Learners use mobile device technology to practice positive cognition and flourish.
Using Technology in an Appreciative Inquiry Change Management Process: From Self to Safe Spaces for Diverse Cultures to Dialogue
Authors: Raman Lalita
Published: November 2021

In the midst of Covid-19, while we have continually been working online with its associated challenges, I hosted an Appreciative Inquiry workshop ... virtually. As much as a face-to-face workshop was desirable, given the circumstances I felt there was no better time to practice using technology and to deepen our understanding of Appreciative Inquiry.
Weaving in creativity
Authors: Rodgers Anne
Published: November 2021

Creativity is an important means of encouraging children to experiment and explore the world around them. As children learn through their senses, creative play can help them to achieve and develop physically, emotionally, socially, and intellectually, promoting skills to increase their self-confidence and self-esteem.
The current market
Authors: Hart Karen
Published: November 2021

There continues to be strong demand for the purchase of high-quality childcare businesses, both in terms of new entrants and existing nursery operators with plans to expand their portfolios. Here we have a snapshot insight into the current market.
A time to invest?
Authors: Hart Karen
Published: November 2021

The pandemic, necessitating the need for most children to stay at home, served to highlight the complexities of caring, amusing, and educating our early years children. With life now getting back to normal and parents getting back to work, is this the right time to invest in the sector?
Preparing for an outing
Authors: Hewson Claire
Published: November 2021

By law, early years settings must make it possible for every child to access all the facilities, resources and activities they offer, including off-site trips. A child cannot be excluded from a trip because they have a special educational need. This is the first article in the SEND outings series.
REVIEWS
Authors: Celinska Angelica
Published: November 2021

Take a look at a review of Loose Parts and Beyond, which will leave you reflecting deeper into your own beliefs affecting your practice. The picture book reviews feature a varied selection, from construction and re-imagined classic stories to a step-by-step guide to textured hair.
Reading about Winter
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: November 2021

One of my favourite activities in Winter is to curl up with a good book on the sofa, whatever the weather outside. Take a look at this selection of books about winter, both stories and non-fiction, to share with the children in your setting and use the activities to help them discover more about the changes of the seasons.
Visiting the dentist
Authors: Rawstrone Annette
Published: November 2021

Good oral health in children is so important, and being part of the EYFS means that practitioners need to support children and families in this area.
Winter hibernation
Authors: Clarke Jenni
Published: November 2021

This time of year is perfect for learning about what animals do during the colder months. This article will look into opportunities for developing physical strength while exploring the concept of hibernation.
A COVID crisis and its consequences
Authors: Madžic Živka
Published: November 2021

Živka Madžic explores what can be learned from how Serbia responded to the COVID-19 pandemic
Transanal irrigation to treat bowel dysfunction: an update on practice
Authors: Yates Ann
Published: November 2021

Transanal irrigation (TAI) has been receiving increasing attention and acceptance in recent years as a treatment option for bowel dysfunction, including chronic constipation, faecal incontinence, neurogenic bowel disorders and lower anterior resection syndrome. TAI involves the instillation of tepid water into the bowel via a rectal catheter or cone to achieve a controlled bowel cleanout. This article addresses the competencies that health professionals require to use TAI. Prior to instigating TAI, these include how to undertake an adequate bowel assessment; understand the risks and complications associated with TAI; and select the equipment most suitable for an individual's bowel symptoms. The professional must also be able to instruct the user in how to safely perform the procedure; discuss contra-indications and cautions; and collect outcome measures, including reasons for discontinuation.
Impact of convex ostomy appliances on leakage frequency, peristomal skin health and stomal protrusion
Authors: González Eugenia Rodriguez , Zurita Carmen del Pino , Caballero Gemma Arrontes , Rodríguez Araceli Hoyo , Rodríguez Eugenia Zapatero , Blázquez Eduardo García
Published: November 2021

Aim:

The Convexity in Ostomy (ECOS) study measured the impact of soft convex ostomy appliances on leakage frequency, peristomal skin health, and patient satisfaction, as well as stomal protrusion and body profile.

Methods:

This prospective non-randomised controlled trial included people with a stoma, divided into a control group using a convex appliance throughout (Alterna Confort Convex or Easiflex Confort Convex Light, Coloplast A/S, Humlebæk, Denmark), and an intervention group who were using a flat appliance at baseline before switching to a convex appliance for the rest of the study. Leakage frequency was counted within the past 2 weeks; peristomal skin health was assessed using the discolouration, erosion and tissue overgrowth (DET) Ostomy Skin Tool; and patient satisfaction was measured with a 0-10 Likert scale of self-reported satisfaction with the appliance. Measurements were taken at three visits: baseline (V1), 2-8 weeks (V2) and 6 months (V3). The Kruskal-Wallis and analysis of variance (ANOVA) tests were used for comparison. Multiple regression analysis was used to evaluate the effect of independent variables on the change in leakage frequency and DET score between baseline and 6 months.

Findings:

Of 253 participants screened, 245 completed the follow-up, with 151 in the intervention group and 94 in the control group. Mean leakage frequency period went from 5.85 ± 5.55 (V1) to 0.63 ± 1.42 (V2) and 0.23 ± 0.75 (V3) (p<.0001). Mean DET score changed from 4.8 ± 3.47 (V1) to 1.41 ± 2.17 (V2) and 0.54 ± 1.57 (V3) (p<.0001). Mean satisfaction changed from 6.0 ± 2.25 (V1) to 8.6 ± 1.14 (V2) and 9.17 ± 0.93 (V3) (p<.0001). From V1 to V3, the proportion of patients with a depressed peristomal area went from 45.7% to 31.4%, a normal peristomal area went from 45.3% to 65.3%, stoma protrusion went from 31.4% to 47.3% and stoma retraction went from 28.6% to 15.5%. By group, mean leakage frequency decreased in the intervention group by 7.65, from 7.57 to 0.11, and in the control group by 2.37, from 2.94 to 0.46 (p<0.0001). Multiple ANOVA analysis confirmed independent variables in reducing leakage to be initiating convexity and appliance coupling. By group, mean DET score decreased in the intervention group by 4.82, from 5.24 to 0.42, and in the control group by 3.52, from 4.34 to 0.76. Multiple ANOVA analysis showed independent variables for DET score to be initiating convexity, emergency surgery and stoma siting.

Conclusion:

People with a stoma experiencing repeated leakage benefitted from shifting from a flat to a soft convex appliance in terms of leakage frequency, peristomal skin health, stomal protrusion and body profile.
Holding our breath
Authors: Droste Werner
Published: November 2021

Werner Droste delivers news from the European Council of Enterostomal Therapy
Clinical digest
Authors: Batas Renata
Published: November 2021

A brief overview of recently published articles on gastroenterology, hepatology and stoma care
The maximal angle between 5×5 positive semidefinite and 5×5 nonnegative matrices
Authors: Zhang Qinghong
Published: November 2021

The paper is devoted to the study of the maximal angle between the $5\times 5$ semidefinite matrix cone and $5\times 5$ nonnegative matrix cone. A signomial geometric programming problem is formulated in the process to find the maximal angle. Instead of using an optimization problem solver to solve the problem numerically, the method of Lagrange Multipliers is used to solve the signomial geometric program, and therefore, to find the maximal angle between these two cones.
Dynamic Resource Allocation Method for Load Balance Scheduling Over Cloud Data Center Networks
Authors: Chhabra Sakshi , Singh Ashutosh Kumar
Published: November 2021

The cloud datacenter has numerous hosts as well as application requests where resources are dynamic. The demands placed on the resource allocation are diverse. These factors could lead to load imbalances, which affect scheduling efficiency and resource utilization. A scheduling method called Dynamic Resource Allocation for Load Balancing (DRALB) is proposed. The proposed solution constitutes two steps: First, the load manager analyzes the resource requirements such as CPU, Memory, Energy and Bandwidth usage and allocates an appropriate number of VMs for each application. Second, the resource information is collected and updated where resources are sorted into four queues according to the loads of resources i.e. CPU intensive, Memory intensive, Energy intensive and Bandwidth intensive. We demonstarate that SLA-aware scheduling not only facilitates the cloud consumers by resources availability and improves throughput, response time etc. but also maximizes the cloud profits with less resource utilization and SLA (Service Level Agreement) violation penalties. This method is based on diversity of client’s applications and searching the optimal resources for the particular deployment. Experiments were carried out based on following parameters i.e. average response time; resource utilization, SLA violation rate and load balancing. The experimental results demonstrate that this method can reduce the wastage of resources and reduces the traffic upto 44.89% and 58.49% in the network.
The light intensity mediates the pollination efficacy of a Caatinga morning glory Ipomoea bahiensis (Convolvulaceae)
Authors: Gimenes Miriam , Araujo Laene Silva , Medina Anderson Matos
Published: November 2021

Pollination is an ecological process that relies on the matching traits of flower visitors and flowers. Morphology, behavior, and temporal patterns play essential roles in mediating the interactions between plants and floral visitors. This study analyzed the temporal aspects of visitors and flowers interaction and the possible adjustment between both organisms.  We used Ipomoea bahiensis and its flower visitors as a model system. We evaluated the visitor frequency on the flowers throughout the day, flower opening and closing times, pollen availability and stigma receptivity. We also evaluated the highest fruit production time during the flower longevity was analyzed, and the time of highest pollinator activity, related to climatic factors. Among the floral visitors, bees, especially Melitoma spp., Apis mellifera, and Pseudaugochlora pandora were the most frequent visitors, presenting regular visits synchronized with the flower opening and closing times, which were also regular. This system was influenced mainly by light intensity. Besides, these bees were very active during the times of the highest fruit production.  These data indicate the presence of temporal patterns for both the bees and the visited plants, and synchronization between them, being the light intensity as a modulator of the rhythms of bees and plant, confirming the importance of the temporal adjustments for pollination efficiency.
Seasonal Variations in the Organization and Structure of Apis cerana cerana Swarm Queen Cells
Authors: Yang Shunhua , Zhi Dandan , Gong Xueyang , Liu Yiqiu , Zhao Wenzheng , Dong Kun
Published: November 2021

This paper describes the organization and structure of the swarm queen cells of Apis cerana cerana in spring, summer, and autumn in Kunming, Yunnan Province, China. We measured the following indices to reveal the organization rule of swarm cells: number of swarm cells built by each colony during different seasons; the shortest distance between two adjacent swarm cells on the comb; distance between swarm cell base and bottom bar of movable frame. We revealed the swarm cells structural characteristics using the following indicators: maximum diameter of swarm cell, the length between mouth and bottom of swarm cell, depth between maximum diameter and bottom of swarm cell, and the ratio of maximum diameter to depth between maximum diameter and bottom of swarm cell. Regarding seasonal differences, results indicated a significant variation in the distance between the swarm cell base and the bottom bar of the movable frame. Still, no such effect was observed in the shortest distance between two adjacent swarm cells. The maximum swarm cell diameter was not considerably influenced either, while the distance between the maximum diameter and the bottom of the swarm cell had substantial variation. The detected ratio of the maximum diameter to the depth between the maximum diameter and the bottom of theswarm cell indicated seasonal changes in the bottom shape of the swarm cell. This study clarifies the temporal and spatial distribution and structure of swarm cells of A. c. cerana. It establishes the basis for predicting the time and position of appearing swarm cells, thus allowing for a more precise determination of the shape and size of queen-cell punch and the ideal position of a cell cup on the bar of queen cup frames in artificial queen rearing.
Dinâmica de Campos Térmicos Aplicada ao Estudo da Superposição de Estados Coerentes e Estados de Fock via Função de Wigner
Authors: Da Silva Filho Lourival Manoel
Published: November 2021

A estrutura algébrica da dinâmica de campos térmicos, o formalismo da teoria quântica de campos à temperatura finita e a tempo real, são usados para o estudo do estado composto pela superposição de um estado número de Fock, |n >, com um estado coerente, | \alpha >. A análise dos efeitos da temperatura é realizada considerando a matriz densidade e a função de Wigner. Para tal propósito, vamos considerar a duplicação do estado original com o estado de vácuo do espaço dual.
Sobre a relação entre a energia da luz e sua frequência
Authors: Mendes Jayme F.M.
Published: November 2021

Consideramos aqui a absorção de ondas eletromagnéticas monocromáticas por um corpo massivo em repouso. O processo é analisado em dois referenciais inerciais quanto à conservação de energia relativística e efeito Doppler relativístico transversal. A comparação entre a e\-ner\-gia da onda eletromagnética e sua respectiva frequência nos dois referenciais resultam em uma invariância relativística para a razão `energia da onda eletromagnética'/`frequência'.
Duas Descrições Lagrangeanas para a Eletrodinâmica de London
Authors: Dos Santos Edine Silva , A. Farias Franz
Published: November 2021

A Eletrodinâmica de London é revisitada no contexto de duas descrições Lagrangianas. As equações de London descrevem o diamagnetismo extremo, característico dos supercondutores tipo I. Uma descrição Lagrangeana, em um primeiro caso, é estabelecida utilizando um multiplicador de Lagrange à Lagrangeana de Maxwell, enquanto na segunda descrição se utiliza a Lagrangeana de Proca. Mostramos que existe uma equivalência entre as duas Lagrangeanas e discutimos algumas das consequências dessa equivalência.
Efeitos da Radiação Eletromagnética LASER em Diaphorina citri
Authors: Kalile Milena Oliveira , Magalhães Daniela , Ragni Mirco , Fancelli Marilene
Published: November 2021

Os níveis que a humanidade chegou no uso de pesticidas alarma os órgãos internacionais de controle da saúde coletiva, especialmente no Brasil. À toxicidade ambiental que aumenta, não corresponde um avanço no combate às pragas que afetam muitas das atividades produtivas. Por isso é necessário o uso de técnicas ambientalmente corretas e eficientes para garantir a subsistência da população mundial e o acesso a alimentos saudáveis. Neste trabalho é descrita a eficiência do uso do LASER na letalidade da Diaphorina citri pela exposição direta e indireta à radiação, e a perspectiva de limitar sua dispersão entre pomares cítricos ao acoplar o LASER a um sistema de reconhecimento e morte de insetos. Os resultados obtidos nos experimentos sugerem a utilização em outros tipos de pragas.
Preparation of a superposition of squeezed coherent states of a cavity field via coupling to a superconducting charge qubit
Authors: Freitas Dagoberto S.
Published: November 2021

The generation of nonclassical states of a radiation field has become increasingly important in the past years given its various applications in quantum communication. It has been recently proposed a way to engineer quantum states using a SQUID charge qubit inside a cavity with a controllable interaction between the cavity field and the charge qubit. Since decoherence is known to affect quantum effects uninterruptedly and decoherence process are working even when the quantum state is being formed, therefore, is interesting to envisage processes through which quantum superpositions are generated as fast as possible. We succeed in linearizing the Hamiltonian of the system through the application of an appropriate unitary transformation and for certain values of the parameters involved, we show that it is possible to obtain specific Hamiltonians. In this work we will use this approach for preparing superposition of two squeezed coherent states.
Dinâmica de satélites artificiais ao redor da lua Namaka
Authors: Lopes Lima Júnior Edielcio Antonio , Dos Santos Carvalho Jean Paulo
Published: November 2021

Namaka é um dos dois satélites naturais do planeta anão Haumea, localizado no Cinturão de Kuiper, região com distância de cerca de 30 a 50 unidades astronômicas. Neste trabalho, investigamos a dinâmica e as características orbitais de satélites artificiais em torno da lua Namaka, considerando a atração gravitacional de Haumea, uma perturbação predominante na órbita do veículo espacial, cujo efeito pode afastá-lo de sua órbita nominal. A partir de simulações numéricas, órbitas de baixa altitude são analisadas, determinando a região com maior tempo de vida, ou seja, o tempo em que o veículo espacial demora para colidir com a superfície de Namaka. Encontramos órbitas com maior tempo de vida ao redor de Namaka para altitudes entre 1,1RN e 1,2RN (Raio de Namaka).
Análise Algébrica de Transferências Orbitais Sujeitas a Desvios Superpostos em "Pitch" e "Yaw"
Authors: De Jesus A.D.C.
Published: November 2021

Os efeitos de desvios em direção do vetor empuxo em manobras de transferência orbital de um veículo espacial podem gerar desalinhamentos definitivos, afastando-o da sua trajetória final nominal. Manobras de correção são implementadas, mas estes desvios tendem a aumentar durante o tempo de vida do veículo pelo desgaste do sistema propulsor. As manobras de correção, neste período, não conseguem alcançar seus objetivos e o veículo é perdido, devido as forças dissipativas e os desvios do sistema propulsor. O entendimento de como estes desvios interferem na órbita final é de grande importância para o controle de uma missão sujeita a desvios em "pitch" e "yaw". Neste trabalho, mostramos a relação algébrica e existente entre os desvios nestes ângulos e seus efeitos em elementos keplerianos importantes que definem a órbita final do veículo. Esta análise permite o estabelecimento teórico e exato entre os valores médios destas grandezas numa relação de causa e efeito não-linear, que prevê os casos de superposição dos efeitos na direção de queima nos propulsores. Os efeitos das forças dissipativas foram considerados desprezíveis em relação aos efeitos destes desvios durante a manobra de transferência orbital.
Um Estudo de Caso sobre as Implicações da Abordagem Ausubeliana no Ensino de Física
Authors: De Santana Samuel Nunes , Teixeira Elder Sales
Published: November 2021

Este trabalho fundamenta-se na pesquisa ação utilizada para investigar o processo de aprendizagem significativa. Mapas conceituais foram utilizados como ferramentas para a coleta e análise dos dados, acessando a estrutura cognitiva do sujeito da pesquisa, o que resultou em um mapeamento cognitivo que foi analisado qualitativamente e tratado estatisticamente por meio da análise de agrupamento hierárquico (AAH). Duas questões básicas foram investigadas: como se encontram os conceitos de termologia de um estudante com ensino médio completo? Quais mudanças significativas podem se processar após ser ministrado curso estruturado segundo a abordagem ausubeliana? Os resultados mostraram uma grande concordância entre a análise quantitativa e qualitativa, indicando a grande diferença entre os resultados do pré-teste o do pós-teste e uma melhoria significativa na compreensão da termologia pelo estudante.
Ensino de Física: a realidade cotidiana e o conhecimento científico no contexto da escola
Authors: Dos Anjos Antonio Jorge Sena
Published: November 2021

Considerando a problemática existente em torno do ensino de Ciências no contexto da escola básica e sua implicação na formação geral dos estudantes, procuramos fazer algumas reflexões e considerações críticas sobre componentes que interferem diretamente no fazer pedagógico em Ciências, bem como apresentamos algumas sugestões no sentido de melhor adequar o ensino de Ciências em geral e o de Física, em particular, às necessidades e desafios do mundo atual.
Departamento de Física da UEFS: sua natureza, diretrizes e perspectivas sob a ótica das considerações teórico-filosóficas consubstanciadas no seu projeto de criação
Authors: Farias Franz A. , Miltão M.S.R.
Published: November 2021

Neste trabalho, a partir do projeto de criação, analisamos a natureza, diretrizes e perspectivas do Departamento de Física da UEFS, sob a ótica das considerações teórico-filosóficas já estabelecidas. Ao final, realizamos uma avaliação sobre a evolução do DFIS nesses cinco anos iniciais, considerando as atividades desenvolvidas pelo departamento à luz das diretrizes e perspectivas delineadas.
Dinâmica de Galáxia e Matéria Escura
Authors: Campos Juliano Pereira , Madejsky Rainer
Published: November 2021

Apresentamos neste trabalho uma análise da curva de rotação de galáxias espirais. Utilizamos alguns modelos analíticos na tentativa de obter uma expressão para a distribuição de massa da matéria escura, como uma possível solução para o "problema da matéria faltante". Uma combinação de modelos analíticos para descrever as distribuições de massa para matéria visível e matéria escura foram utilizados, respectivamente, a da Lei de Plummer e a da Esfera Isoterma. Salientamos que, mesmo tendo obtidos bons resultados, os modelos analíticos tratados neste trabalho não são os mais aperfeiçoados, e que nenhum outro fechou completamente o problema estudado.
Algumas Propriedades dos Espaços Lp
Authors: Oliveira N.C. , Saavedra B.R.B.
Published: November 2021

Neste trabalho demonstramos algumas propriedades dos espaços Lp. As três primeiras servem para caracterizar casos patológicos ou muito singulares. A quarta propriedade fornece uma caracterização da norma para p tendendo ao infinito.
Modellus: Animações Interativas Mediando a Aprendizagem Significativa dos Conceitos de Física no Ensino Médio
Authors: Santos Gustavo H. , Alves Lynn , Moret Marcelo A.
Published: November 2021

As dificuldades que alunos do ensino médio possuem na aprendizagem dos conceitos da Física são conhecidas. A utilização de métodos tradicionais de ensino e ausência de meios pedagógicos modernos constituem-se razões deste problema. Neste artigo, apresentamos quatro animções interativas, desenvolvidas em um ambiente virtual de aprendizagem computacional. Utilizamos o software Modellus como ferramenta mediadora da aprendizagemsignificativa dos conceitos de Física, com os alunos do ensino médio do Colégio Militar de Salvador. A criação do Laboratório Virtual e impacto das simulações no ensino/aprendizagem foram representadas em gráficos, estes baseados em um questionário respondido pelos alunos, durante as atividades.
Álgebra de Lie das Matrizes Gama da Equação de Dirac e dos Geradores do Grupo de Lorentz Homogêneo
Authors: Santiago Pereira Ricardo Martinho Lima
Published: November 2021

Este artigo aborda a construção de uma álgebra de Lie a partir do estudo da equação quântico relativística de Dirac tomando a condição de invariância relativística frente ao grupo de Lorentz Homogêneo no espaço de Minkowiski. Com base no estudo da teoria dos grupos contínuos, demonstramos que o estabelecimento de uma álgebra de Lie é uma condição suficiente para determinar as representações irredutíveis de um grupo contínuo. A partir da exigência de covariância da equação de Dirac frente ao grupo de Lorentz Homogêneo podemos estabelecer uma álgebra para as matrizes gama induzida pela álgebra dos geradores do grupo de Lorentz Homogêneo.
Notas sobre o Grupo de Galileu: Aspectos Geométricos e Recentes Desenvolvimentos
Authors: Abreu Luciano M. , Santana Ademir E. , Santos Esdras E. , Filho Aurino Ribeiro
Published: November 2021

Apresentamos uma revisão pedagógica sobre as simetrias galileanas, seus desenvolvimentos e o interesse atual na geometria do espaço-tempo não-relativístico para fins de aplicação. Inicialmente tratamos de alguns aspectos históricos e seguimos com a definição do grupo de Galilei; nos concentramos depois na noção de covariância Galileana. Enfatizamos o estudo de representações que levam a equações da mecânica quântica não-relativística, como a equação de Schrödinger para partículas de spin zero e a equação de Pauli-Schrödinger para partículas de spin 1/2. A forma como as representações são construídas torna evidente, para fins pedagógicos, que conceitos como o spin, não são efeitos tipicamente relativísticos, como aparecem em alguns textos sobre mecânica quântica. Por outro lado, reforçamos a importância da estrutura tensorial (geométrica) para aplicações em sistemas não-relativísticos, como no caso da física da matéria condensada.