bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protocol for a winter sentinel surveillance program of notifiable respiratory viruses in Queensland
Authors: Ginige Shamila , Firman Elise , Li Yee Sum , Soonarane Yudish , Smoll Nicolas , May Fiona , Hunter Ian , Pery Brielle , Macfarlane Bonnie , Bladen Tracy , Allen Terresa , Lennon Melinda , Walker Jacina , Slinko Vicki , Stickley Mark , Khandaker Gulam , Anuradha Satyamurthy , Wattiaux Andre
Published: November 2022

Background

With the reduction in access to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing and changes in testing guidelines in Australia, a reduced number of people are seeking testing for coronavirus disease (COVID-19), limiting the opportunity to monitor disease transmission. Knowledge of community transmission of COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses is essential to better predict subsequent surges in cases during the pandemic to alert health services, protect vulnerable populations and enhance public health measures. We describe a methodology for a testing-based sentinel surveillance program to monitor disease in the community for early signal detection of SARS-CoV-2 and other respiratory viruses.

Methods/design

A longitudinal active testing-based sentinel surveillance program for respiratory viruses (including SARS-CoV-2, influenza A, influenza B and Respiratory Syncytial Virus) will be implemented in some regions of Queensland. Adults will be eligible for enrolment if they are part of specific community groups at increased risk of exposure and have not had a COVID-19 infection in the last 13 weeks. Recruitment via workplaces will occur in-person, via email and through online advertisement. Asymptomatic participants will be tested via PCR for SARS-CoV-2 infection by weekly self-collected nasal swabs. In addition, symptomatic participants will be asked to seek SARS-CoV-2 and additional respiratory virus PCR testing at nominated COVID-19 testing sites. SARS-CoV-2 and respiratory virus prevalence data will be analysed weekly and at the end of the study period.

Discussion

Once implemented, this surveillance program will determine the weekly prevalence of COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses in the broader community by testing a representative sample of adults, with an aim to detect early changes in the baseline positivity rate. This information is essential to define the epidemiology of SARS-CoV-2 in the community in near-real time to inform public health control measures and prepare health services and other stakeholders for a rise in service demand.
The measurement, sources of variation, and factors influencing the coupled and coordinated development of rural revitalization and digital economy in China
Authors: Du Meng , Huang Yanshun , Dong Hai , Zhou Xiangjun , Wang Yipan
Published: November 2022

An evaluation index system for the coupled and coordinated development of China’s digital economy and rural revitalization, including a total of 46 indicators for the digital economy and rural revitalization subsystems, was constructed and combined with the entropy weight method, the coupling coordination degree model, Zhou’s constraint identification index, the Dagum Gini coefficient decomposition method, and the panel spatial econometric model to analyze the level of coupled and coordinated development of China’s digital economy and rural revitalization. The results found that: (1) the coupling and coordination between the two have gradually improved. The constraints of the digital economy on rural revitalization were gradually alleviated from 2011 to 2015, but after the 19th Party Congress, the development trend of rural revitalization has significantly outstripped the digital economy. (2) the spatial differences in the degree of coupling and coordination between the two are dominated by inter-regional differences and show significant spatial convergence and spatial correlation. Differentiated digital economy development strategies and more radiation in polarized areas are important for reducing regional differences in the level of coupling and coordination between the digital economy and rural revitalization. This will help China’s digital countryside grow more efficiently.
Multicenter evaluation of the GenomEra SARS-CoV-2 assay kit
Authors: Lång Mika , Allard Annika , Blomqvist Soile , Iranto Irmeli , Vuorinen Tytti , Tapio Antti-Heikki , Vainio Jiri
Published: November 2022

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) first emerged in late 2019, and quickly spread to every continent causing the global coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Fast propagation of the disease presented numerous challenges to the health care industry in general and especially placed enormous pressure on laboratory testing. Throughout the pandemic, reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR)-based nucleic acid amplification tests have been the primary technique to identify acute infections caused by SARS-CoV-2. Since the start of the pandemic, there has been a constantly growing need for accurate and fast tests to enable timely protective and isolation means, as well as rapid therapeutic interventions. Here we present an evaluation of the GenomEra test for SARS-CoV-2. Analytical and clinical performance was evaluated in a multicenter setting with specimens analyzed using standard-of-care (SOC) techniques. Analytical sensitivity was assessed from spiked respiratory swab samples collected into different viral transport media, and in the best performer eSwab, the limit of detection was found to be 239 IU/mL in a heat processed sample. The GenomEra SARS-CoV-2 Assay Kit did not show specificity/cross-reactivity issues with common micro-organisms or other substances commonly found in respiratory specimens when analyzed both in vitro and in silico. Finally, the clinical performance was assessed in comparison to SOC techniques used at four institutions. Based on the analysis of 274 clinical specimens, the positive agreement of the GenomEra SARS-CoV-2 Assay Kit was 90.7%, and the negative agreement was 100%. The GenomEra SARS-CoV-2 Assay Kit provided accurate detection of SARS-CoV-2 with a short turnaround time in under 90 min.
The decentralization effects of entrepreneurial characteristics on corporate social responsibility
Authors: Ding Youqiang , Hu Yufeng
Published: November 2022

The question of whether appropriate decentralization can solve Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) misplacement caused by Entrepreneurial Characteristics (EC) is an interesting ethical puzzle. Because corporate behavior depends on the decision-making choices of executives whose personality characteristics affect the choice tendency, power distribution undoubtedly becomes a big boost for most businesses to work out the adverse externality problems. Based on Upper Echelons Theory, this study developed a comparative impact model linking the effects of entrepreneurial intrinsic nature and experience characteristics on CSR performance. We tested the effective mechanism with the mediator role of the Corporate Power Distribution Index (CPDI) through a sample of listed Chinese companies from 2009 to 2017. The results provide that EC, such as female Gender, Degree, and Salary, have positive effects on CSR; CPDI plays a mediator role in the relationship between EC and CSR; and is moderated by Age, Academy, and Shares. The conclusion shows that EC can improve CSR performance to optimize CPDI to reduce corporate misplacement behavior.
Safety climate in the Ghanaian printing industry
Authors: Esseh Samuel Smith , Ry-Kottoh Lucy Afeafa , Denyo Mary Mawufemor
Published: November 2022

The concept of safety climate has gained attention from safety experts as one of the most efficient and effective ways to deal with occupational accidents and injuries across industries. This paper explores the safety climate and the effect of employees’ demographic variables on the safety climate perception in the printing industry. We adopted the Safety Climate Scale (SCS) developed by Ghahramani and Khalkhali to measure the safety climate in the print manufacturing industry of Ghana. Our findings, based on all the dimensions in the scale, revealed an unsafe safety climate. Also, there was a correlation between demographic factors (age, gender, experience, and education) and perception of workplace safety climate. The major contribution of this paper is to extend empirical research that provides a greater understanding of the health and safety environment within the printing industry of Ghana and the personal and collective attitudes and patterns of behaviour that determine the commitment to organisations’ health and safety practices. These findings are important for managers in the printing industry because they provide evidence about the current safety climate so that management can take the action to reduce risks and improve performance. To improve the safety climate, we recommend that management and other stakeholders within the printing industry must commit and communicate effectively, embrace safety practices and procedures, and be more accountable and responsible to minimise the effects of a poor safety climate.
Research on China-EU equipment manufacturing Trade dependence in intra-industry specialization view
Authors: Jian Lingxiang , Ding Tiantian , Ma Wanyun
Published: November 2022

As the foundation of the industrial economy, the equipment manufacturing industry takes an important position on the China-EU trade. Based on the analysis of the overall trend and structure of China-EU equipment manufacturing industry trade in 2007–2020, this article involves the construction of trade concentration into trade dependence metrics, and then calculate the degree of interdependence between China and EU equipment manufacturing trade in 2020. The perspective of the intra-industry specialization will be used to analyze China-EU equipment manufacturing trade dependency in 2020. The results show that: (1) Although China-EU equipment manufacturing trade has continued to grow, China had an imbalanced export structure to the EU, and electronic equipment exports are too high; (2) Regardless of import or export, the trade dependence of the EU countries on China about equipment manufacturing was higher than that of China on European countries; (3) China mainly depended on the EU about the high-end equipment manufacturing trade, which brings risks to Chinese manufacturing supply chains.
Cas9-mediated endogenous plasmid loss in Borrelia burgdorferi
Authors: Takacs Constantin N. , Nakajima Yuko , Haber James E. , Jacobs-Wagner Christine
Published: November 2022

The spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi, which causes Lyme disease, has the most segmented genome among known bacteria. In addition to a linear chromosome, the B. burgdorferi genome contains over 20 linear and circular endogenous plasmids. While many of these plasmids are dispensable under in vitro culture conditions, they are maintained during the natural life cycle of the pathogen. Plasmid-encoded functions are required for colonization of the tick vector, transmission to the vertebrate host, and evasion of host immune defenses. Different Borrelia strains can vary substantially in the type of plasmids they carry. The gene composition within the same type of plasmid can also differ from strain to strain, impeding the inference of plasmid function from one strain to another. To facilitate the investigation of the role of specific B. burgdorferi plasmids, we developed a Cas9-based approach that targets a plasmid for removal. As a proof-of-principle, we showed that targeting wild-type Cas9 to several loci on the endogenous plasmids lp25 or lp28-1 of the B. burgdorferi type strain B31 results in sgRNA-specific plasmid loss even when homologous sequences (i.e., potential sequence donors for DNA recombination) are present nearby. Cas9 nickase versions, Cas9D10A or Cas9H840A, also cause plasmid loss, though not as robustly. Thus, sgRNA-directed Cas9 DNA cleavage provides a highly efficient way to eliminate B. burgdorferi endogenous plasmids that are non-essential in axenic culture.
MiR-302d inhibits TGFB-induced EMT and promotes MET in primary human RPE cells
Authors: Hu Xiaonan , Binter Maximilian , Hufendiek Karsten , Tode Jan , Framme Carsten , Fuchs Heiko
Published: November 2022

Purpose

Transforming growth factor-beta (TGFB)-mediated epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of retinal fibrosis, which is one of the leading causes of impaired vision. Current approaches to treating retinal fibrosis focus, among other things, on inhibiting the TGFB signaling pathway. Transient expression of microRNAs (miRNAs) is one way to inhibit the TGFB pathway post-transcriptionally. Our previous study identified the miRNA miR-302d as a regulator of multiple TGFB-related genes in ARPE-19 cells. To further explore its effect on primary cells, the effect of miR-302d on TGFB-induced EMT in primary human retinal pigment epithelium (hRPE) was investigated in vitro.

Methods

hRPE cells were extracted from patients receiving enucleation. Transfection of hRPE cells with miR-302d was performed before or after TGFB1 stimulation. Live-cell imaging, immunocytochemistry staining, Western blot, and ELISA assays were utilized to identify the alterations of cellular morphology and EMT-related factors expressions in hRPE cells.

Results

hRPE cells underwent EMT by TGFB1 exposure. The transfection of miR-302d inhibited the transition with decreased production of mesenchymal markers and increased epithelial factors. Meanwhile, the phosphorylation of SMAD2 activated by TGFB1 was suppressed. Moreover, miR-302d expression promoted TGFB1-induced fibroblast-like hRPE cells to revert towards an epithelial stage. As confirmed by ELISA, miR-302d reduced TGFB receptor 2 (TGFBR2) and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) levels 48 hours after transfection.

Conclusions

The protective effect of miR-302d might be a promising approach for ameliorating retinal fibrosis and neovascularization. MiR-302d suppresses TGFB-induced EMT in hRPE cells via downregulation of TGFBR2, even reversing the process. Furthermore, miR-302d reduces the constitutive secretion of VEGFA from hRPE cells.
Risk factors and survival in patients with COVID-19 in northeastern Brazil
Authors: Fernandes Ana Tereza , Rodrigues Eujessika K. , Araújo Eder R. , Formiga Magno F. , Horan Priscilla K. Sá , Ferreira Ana Beatriz Nunes de Sousa , Barbosa Humberto A. , Barbosa Paulo S.
Published: November 2022

Background

Knowledge about the epidemiology and risk factors surrounding COVID-19 contributes to developing better health strategies to combat the disease.

Objective

This study aimed to establish a survival analysis and identify the risk factors for patients with COVID-19 in an upper middle-income city in Brazil.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted with 280 hospitalized patients with COVID-19. The eCOVID platform provided data to monitor COVID-19 cases and help the communication between professionals.

Results

Age ≥ 65 years was associated with decreased survival (54.8%), and females had a lower survival rate than males (p = 0.01). Regarding risk factors, urea concentration (p<0.001), hospital length of stay (p = 0.002), oxygen concentration (p = 0.005), and age (p = 0.02) were associated with death.

Conclusion

Age, hospital length of stay, high blood urea concentration, and low oxygen concentration were associated with death by COVID-19 in the studied population. These findings corroborate with studies conducted in research centers worldwide.
Genomic changes in Kaposi Sarcoma-associated Herpesvirus and their clinical correlates
Authors: Santiago Jan Clement , Adams Scott V. , Towlerton Andrea , Okuku Fred , Phipps Warren , Mullins James I.
Published: November 2022

Kaposi sarcoma (KS), a common HIV-associated malignancy, presents a range of clinicopathological features. Kaposi sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) is its etiologic agent, but the contribution of viral genomic variation to KS development is poorly understood. To identify potentially influential viral polymorphisms, we characterized KSHV genetic variation in 67 tumors from 1–4 distinct sites from 29 adults with advanced KS in Kampala, Uganda. Whole KSHV genomes were sequenced from 20 tumors with the highest viral load, whereas only polymorphic genes were screened by PCR and sequenced from 47 other tumors. Nine individuals harbored ≥1 tumors with a median 6-fold over-coverage of a region centering on K5 and K6 genes. K8.1 gene was inactivated in 8 individuals, while 5 had mutations in the miR-K10 microRNA coding sequence. Recurring inter-host polymorphisms were detected in K4.2 and K11.2. The K5-K6 region rearrangement breakpoints and K8.1 mutations were all unique, indicating that they arise frequently de novo. Rearrangement breakpoints were associated with potential G-quadruplex and Z-DNA forming sequences. Exploratory evaluations of viral mutations with clinical and tumor traits were conducted by logistic regression without multiple test corrections. K5-K6 over-coverage and K8.1 inactivation were tentatively correlated (p<0.001 and p = 0.005, respectively) with nodular rather than macular tumors, and with individuals that had lesions in ≤4 anatomic areas (both p≤0.01). Additionally, a trend was noted for miR-K10 point mutations and lower survival rates (HR = 4.11, p = 0.053). Two instances were found of distinct tumors within an individual sharing the same viral mutation, suggesting metastases or transmission of the aberrant viruses within the host. To summarize, KSHV genomes in tumors frequently have over-representation of the K5-K6 region, as well as K8.1 and miR-K10 mutations, and each might be associated with clinical phenotypes. Studying their possible effects may be useful for understanding KS tumorigenesis and disease progression.
A Vertically Integrated Project (VIP) as a learning experience to foster entrepreneurship education
Authors: Morini Cristiano , Azevedo Anibal Tavares , Inácio Júnior Edmundo , Coyle Edward J.
Published: November 2022

Purpose: we aim is to present a learning approach for students to work on a hands-on project that may be applied to different contexts. This experience relates to an initiative to foster entrepreneurial education embedded in economic sustainability based on the best local practices (highest-ranked municipalities) that we find and analyze to solve complex problems in the business environment. Design/Methodology/Approach: our approach is to collaborate with policymakers at the municipal level via a research-based project approach called Vertically Integrated Project (VIP). In our VIP, students work with instructors in a long-term effort to identify challenges and opportunities by working with the community to analyze problems, develop solutions (with different techniques and approaches), and monitor their implementation. Findings: new learning approaches can engage the students in real-world problem, adding value to their formation and giving back to society the investment they made in the Brazilian public university. Originality: this initiative is in tune with the 4th and the 11th sustainable development goals (SDGs) adopted by the United Nations (UN). Practical implications: this study aims to stimulate entrepreneurial education using multidisciplinary and alternative learning approaches. Social implications: this approach can deliver SDG-related impact to local communities by linking research-based teaching with community outreach.
Mapping Sinkholes in
Mitchell Plateau of Southern Indiana Using LIDAR
Authors: Lawal Afolarin
Published: November 2022

Sinkholes are surface depressions caused by the lowering of the earth surface by dissolution of subsurface materials or by collapse of the surface into a void left behind by the removal of subsurface layers. Sinkholes can cause serious damage to properties and infrastructure, and sometimes human casualties occur in severe cases. In the United States, the cost incurred due to damages caused by sinkholes has been estimated to be over $300 million per year and the actual damage is likely to be much greater than this. Indiana is one of the many states in the country underlain by large areas of karst hence, has many known sinkholes. This research demonstrates the use of LIDAR technology in identifying sinkholes using the localized contour tree method.
Paullinia cupana (Kunth) stimulates behavior patterns and regulates oxidative stress markers in lobster cockroach Nauphoeta cinerea
Authors: Oliveira Thalyta Julyanne Silva de , Viana José Wellington Macêdo , Pereira Pedro Silvino , Morais Elayne Eally Silva de Oliveira , Silva Jailson Renato de Lima , Oliveira Carlos Vinícius Barros de , Costa Adrielle Rodrigues , Menezes Irwin Rose Alencar de , Duarte Antonia Eliene , Kamdem Jean Paul , Barros Luiz Marivando
Published: November 2022

Paullinia cupana (Kunth), popularly known as guarana, is a plant species from the Amazon Region of Brazil that stands out for being one of the most promising herbal medicines of the Brazilian flora since it has relevant biological properties. However, studies are still needed to use this species as a direct approach to evaluate aspects related to behavior and oxidative stress in invertebrate model animals. In this context, we aimed to evaluate the stimulant and the antioxidant effects of P. cupana in lobster cockroach Nauphoeta cinerea. For that, cockroaches were exposed to a diet separately supplemented by the decoction of P. cupana powder decoction at increasing concentrations of 1, 25, 50 and 100 mg/g for 42 days. Behavioral and biochemical assays were performed, respectively, to assess the locomotor/exploratory performance and oxidative stress marker levels of the cockroaches. They exhibited an outstanding increase in the locomotion performance and in the cell viability content, as well as in the protein and non-protein thiol levels. Moreover, there was a decrease in lipid peroxidation levels and in free Fe2+ ion contents. Together, our results demonstrate the stimulant and the antioxidant capacity of P. cupana by acting positively in behavioral patterns and by regulating oxidative stress markers in lobster cockroach N cinerea. These findings encourage further laboratory analyzes in order to better enlighten the specific mechanisms of action attributed to guarana.
SOIL THICKNESS SPATIAL DISTRIBUTION INFLUENCE ON FACTOR OF SAFETY EQUATION
Authors: Costa Abreu Lopes Felipe , Dos Santos Irani
Published: November 2022

Mass movements occurrences are well studied, however there are still possible improvements regarding their factor of safety simulation. This paper focus on the influence of spatialized pedological data and geotechnical data, two of the major limitations for this type of modeling. Numerous mass movements were triggered by an extreme precipitation event in southern Brazil, when the rainwaters reached 300mm in just 24 hours. A local watershed was chosen for field campaigns to supply a safety factor model and show the direct influence of field data on the result efficiency. For this, four different scenarios were created using combination of field data and spatialized soil thickness throughout the watershed area. The results showed an improve of 12% on the simulation efficiency when compared to a homogeneus soil thickness and average geotechnical values scenario, showing the importance of field studies for factor of safety simulations.
ANÁLISE ESPACIAL DAS OCORRÊNCIAS DE ALAGAMENTOS URBANOS NA MICROBACIA DO RIACHO PAJEÚ EM FORTALEZA, CEARÁ
Authors: Moreira dos Santos Juliana , De Paula Davis Pereira
Published: November 2022

A cidade de Fortaleza apresenta um problema crônico relacionado a alagamentos e inundações durante o período de chuvas, não sendo diferente dos grandes centros urbanos brasileiros. Dessa forma, o presente estudo objetivou identificar os principais pontos de alagamento na microbacia do Riacho Pajeú, em Fortaleza -CE, por meio de informações disponíveis na hemeroteca do Jornal O Povo, entre os anos de 2001 e 2019. As informações extraídas dos jornais foram organizadas em um banco de dados, possibilitando a identificação do número de ocorrências de alagamentos na cidade. Em seguida, foram aplicados métodos estatísticos sob os valores de precipitação anual da série histórica. As ocorrências foram espacializadas em ambiente SIG utilizando a técnica de Kernel, que viabilizou a divisão da bacia em setores. Entre 2001 e 2019 foram catalogadas 152 ocorrências de alagamentos, com uma concentração no eixo leste-oeste da Avenida Heráclito Graça, nos bairros Centro e Aldeota.
Reclassification of Urban Growth in Rural Area, Temanggung Regency, Indonesia
Authors: Wijaya Holi Bina , Buchori Imam
Published: November 2022

Reclassification is part of urban growth together with the natural growth of birth and death, and migration from rural to urban areas. However, the reclassification has a deficiency in studies due to the urban growth discourses have much focused on the central force of existing urbanized areas. Historical data shows that the economic growth in urban areas is more due to a residual increase from migration growth and reclassification rather than natural growth. This paper contributes to the empirical context of the phenomenon of reclassification of urban growth and its following spatial changes in the rural area of Temanggung regency, Indonesia. The study utilizes the comparison analysis by examining the growth of industrial employment as an urban activity in rural areas, as well as looking at this relationship with changes in the physical built-up area as an indication of the urbanization process. This study found that the reclassification in Temanggung regency has encouraged urbanization in rural areas, through the development of industrial activities based on local resources and labor and promoted economic growth in rural areas. The reclassification that occurs is mostly due to the wood products manufacturing business that has been supported by the potential resources, and local workforce, rather than the active role of the government institution.
Factors Affecting Child Marriage in West Nusa Tenggara
Authors: Rofita Desi , Makmun Indriyani , Amilia Rizkia , Lestari Cahaya Indah , Sofiatun Sofiatun
Published: November 2022

Background: Child marriage is a significant problem millions of girls face every year. During the period of 2015 – 2018, the increase and decrease in prevalence at the provincial level varied in magnitude. There are 11 provinces that experience marriage for the first time in less than 18 years. One of them is the Province of Nusa Tenggara by 15.48%. The purpose of this research is to observe the factors affecting the incidence of child marriage.Method: This is a quantitative research using secondary data from the Survey of Program Accountability and Performance (SKAP) in West Nusa Tenggara Province, Indonesia as many as 1,292 women of childbearing age. Independent variables included age, education level, occupation, and area of residence; while dependent variable referred to child marriage.Results: There was a significant relationship between age and 95% CI = 1.151-1.754 (p = 0.00), education level and 95% CI = 1.997-3.111, (p = 0.00), employment status and 95% CI = 0.564- 0.895, (p = 0.00), information exposure and 95% CI = 1.178-2.672, (p = 0.00), on the incidence of child marriage. Respondents not attending school had a 2.4 times risk of child marriage, while information exposure has a chance of child marriage, as indicated by a prevalence ratio of 1.7. The area of residence did not have a significant relationship with child marriage with 95% CI = 0.821-1.305, (p = 0.76). The results showed that there was a significant relationship between age, education level, employment status, and information exposure to child marriage. The area of residence did not have a significant relationship with child marriage. Therefore, it is necessary to increase the knowledge of women of childbearing age by providing education such as counseling about the impacts of child marriage.
A Width Parameter Estimation Through Equivalent Rectangle Methodology for Hydraulic Modeling Applications
Authors:   University of Costa Rica, Bonilla Brenes Jose Ricardo , Vega Rafael Oreamuno ,   University of Costa Rica, Hack Jochen ,   Leibniz University Hannover
Published: November 2022

EPA SWMM hydraulic modeling requires the estimation of different parameters allowing the determination of the basin's response upon a given precipitation event. Some physical parameters, such as area or perimeter, are measurable and can be accurately determined; however, other parameter estimation presents greater uncertainty, such as the width parameter. For regular and uniform drainage areas, width parameter estimation is relatively simple; however, when a complete irregular basin analysis is required, width determination presents greater uncertainty, and its representativeness becomes complicated to define. Width determination is idealized with the representation of a rectangle, where, for an equal area, a higher width will result in a faster response of the basin, while a lower width will result in a slower response of the basin. This paper attempts to estimate a representative value of width for a realistic, irregularly shaped basin by defining the equivalent rectangle, which takes into account the area, perimeter, and compactness index of the basin. The compactness index can be used to classify the basin by its shape. The shape of the basin is an indicator of how the precipitation histograms are temporally distributed and how the water flows through the basin, i.e., it defines the response speed of the basin, as the width parameter does in modeling. The width parameter has a high sensitivity in the EPA SWMM modeling results; therefore, an inaccurate estimation of the parameter leads to unrepresentative results. For this reason, this study seeks to find an optimal methodology to reduce modeling uncertainty and achieve more accurate simulations of an irregular watershed's hydrological response.
A real-time algorithm for continuous navigation in intelligent transportation systems using LiDAR-Gyroscope-Odometer integration
Authors: Hassan Tarek , Fath-Allah Tamer , Elhabiby Mohamed , ElDin Awad Alaa , El-Tokhey Mohamed
Published: November 2022

Real-time positioning in suburban and urban environments has been a challenging task for many Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) applications. In these environments, positioning using Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) cannot provide continuous solutions due to the blockage of signals in harsh scenarios. Consequently, it is intrinsic to have an independent positioning system capable of providing accurate and reliable positional solutions over GNSS outages. This study exploits the integration of Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR), gyroscope, and odometer sensors, and a novel real-time algorithm is proposed for this integration. Real field data, collected by a moving land vehicle, is used to test the presented algorithm. Three simulated GNSS outages are introduced in the trajectory such that each outage lasts for five minutes. The results show that using the proposed algorithm can achieve a promising navigation performance in urban environments. In addition, it is shown that the denser environments, that existed over the second and third outages, can provide better positioning accuracies as more features are extracted. The horizontal errors over the first outage, with less density of surroundings, reached 7.74 m (0.43%) error with a mean value of 3.15 m. Moreover, the horizontal errors in the denser environments over the second and third outages reached 4.97 m (0.28%) and 3.99 m (0.23%), with mean values of 2.25 m and 1.89 m, respectively.
Empirical laser measured with optical coherent quadrate amplitude modulation receiver for upgrading fiber optic systems
Authors: Khodaei Amin , Altahan Baraa Riyadh , Manasavenna Thaticharla , Priya Putcha Poorna , Krishna Merugumalli Rama , Ahammad Shaik Hasane , Amzad Hossain Md. , Zaki Rashed Ahmed Nabih , Zidan Walid Fahim
Published: November 2022

The work clarified the empirical laser measured with optical coherent quadrate amplitude modulation receiver for upgrading fiber optic systems. Peak signal amplitude and output power spectrum are measured after light receivers under the control of extinction modulator ratio, radio frequency switching voltage and switching bias voltage. The better the fiber optic system performance can be achieved with the higher values of extinction ratio, both switching radio frequency and bias voltages based LiNb modulators.
UOWC performance based on GMSK modulation
Authors: Hameed Samir M.
Published: November 2022

This paper studies and investigates the performance of Gaussian minimum shift keying (GMSK) for underwater optical wireless communication (UOWC). Various scatterings may result in inter-symbol interference (ISI) and degrade system error performance in UWOC links. Bit-error rate (BER) is evaluated using different water environment models such as clear seawater, coastal, and harbor for a 20 m link range. Simulation results indicate the BER performance is degraded due to the temporal dispersion of impulse response for high data rates in turbid water. In addition, the bandwidth-symbol time product (BT) is an essential parameter in GMSK, affecting BER performance and power efficiency. Therefore, BT must be chosen with a value that balances BER and power efficiency. The results show that GMSK with BT = 0.5 is a good choice that satisfies BER = 10−5 for SNR = 10 dB with an efficient power spectrum due to constant envelope and low out-of-band radiation.
Thiamine status during treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis in children – tertiary care centre experience
Authors: Abdelaziz Tarek A. , Atfy Mervat , Elalawi Saffaa M. , Baz Eman Gamal
Published: November 2022

Objectives

There is a lack of information regarding thiamine status in children with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). This study was designed to assess the thiamine status upon admission and 24 h after treatment initiation of DKA, whether newly diagnosed children or with established T1DM diagnosis, who presented with DKA.

Methods

We enrolled 90 children (mean age, 9.8 ± 2.6 years; 58 females and 32 males) with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), whether newly diagnosed or with an established T1DM diagnosis (from 1 to 5.2 years ago), who presented with DKA. We observed the initial Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) and recovery time. The whole blood thiamine diphosphate levels were measured upon admission (baseline point) and 24 h after initiation of the DKA treatment (second-time point).

Results

The mean blood thiamine levels at the second-time point (90.11 ± 15.76 nmol/L) significantly decreased compared with their levels at baseline (108.8 ± 17.6 nmol/L) (p<0.001). We compared thiamine levels with the initial GCS, patient’s age, and recovery time. Thiamine levels at the second-time point were positively correlated with baseline thiamine levels (r=0.86, p=0.0001) and the initial GCS (r=0.68, p=0.001) but were negatively correlated with patient’s age (r=−0.61, p=0.001) and recovery time (r=−0.724, p=0.001). Based on multiple regression analysis, thiamine levels at the second-time point were directly related to the initial GCS and inversely related to the patient’s age.

Conclusions

The current study indicates that blood thiamine diphosphate levels significantly decreased after 24 h of DKA treatment initiation compared to pre-treatment levels. After 24 h of treatment initiation, blood thiamine levels are directly related to the initial GCS and inversely related to the patient’s age.
Comparison of phase rectified signal averaging and short term variation in predicting perinatal outcome in early onset fetal growth restriction
Authors: Bruin Claartje M. , Lobmaier Silvia M. , Ganzevoort Wessel , Müller Alexander , Wolf Hans
Published: November 2022

Objectives

To compare short term variation (STV) and phase rectified signal averaging (PRSA) and their association with fetal outcome in early onset fetal growth restriction (FGR).

Methods

Data were used from a retrospective cohort study of women who were admitted for FGR and/or pre-eclampsia and who were delivered by pre-labor Cesarean section or had a fetal death before 32 weeks’ gestation. Computerized cardiotocography (cCTG) registrations of the 5 days before delivery or fetal death were used for calculation of STV and PRSA. PRSA was expressed as the average acceleration capacity (AAC) and average deceleration capacity (ADC). FHR decelerations were classified visually as absent, 1–2 per hour or recurrent. Abnormality of STV and of PRSA was either analyzed as a single parameter or in combination with recurrent decelerations. Endpoints were defined as composite adverse condition at birth consisting of fetal death, low Apgar score, low umbilical pH, the need for resuscitation after birth and as major neonatal morbidity or neonatal death.

Results

Included were 367 pregnancies of which 20 resulted in fetal death. An abnormal cCTG with either recurrent decelerations and/or low STV or recurrent decelerations and/or low PRSA were similarly associated with composite adverse condition at birth (n=99), but neither with major neonatal morbidity.

Conclusions

PRSA and STV have similar efficacy for measuring fetal heart rate variation in early onset FGR. An increased risk of a composite adverse condition at birth is indicated by a low value of either parameter and/or the presence of recurrent decelerations.
Corrosion resistance of commercial glazes of floor tiles
Authors: Karataş Cengiz , Şimşek Veli
Published: November 2022

The main aim of this article was to develop new glaze receipts (NGRs) to build up the acid resistance (AR) of commercial glazes (CGs) used in floor tile production. The glaze is a vitrified material that melts the surface of the ceramic material. Improvements were made during and after the manufacture, based on the glaze samples of the CGs. NGRs were synthesized using different mineral compositions. AR, density, chemical, and physical properties of commercial and new synthesized glazes were determined using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy/energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectrometry, and water contact angle analysis methods. The AR of the obtained samples (standard and developed floor tiles) was examined by treating them with 3% HCl for 3 days. Results showed that synthesized glazes had higher AR than standard glazes (CGs). The NGRs also significantly improved the ceramic surface coating features of the new glazes.
Strategische Irrtümer, Fehler und Fehlannahmen der deutschen Energiepolitik seit 2002
Authors: Umbach Frank
Published: November 2022

Kurzfassung

Deutschlands gescheiterte Russland-Politik der letzten beiden Jahrzehnte mit ihren kollektiven Fehlannahmen und Fehleinschätzungen ist eng verbunden mit seiner Energiepolitik seit 2002, insbesondere mit der Gasimportabhängigkeit von Russland. Der Faktor Versorgungssicherheit und die damit verbundenen geopolitischen Risiken wurden von den Bundesregierungen, aber auch den einschlägigen Ökonomen und Wirtschaftsjournalisten sowie der Wirtschaft weitgehend ausgeblendet oder marginalisiert. Die steigende Gasimportabhängigkeit war auch Folge des deutschen Doppelausstiegs aus der Kernenergie und der Kohle. Sowohl Deutschlands Russlandpolitik wie seine energiepolitischen Alleingänge haben in Brüssel und bei den Nachbarstaaten Deutschlands und in den USA erhebliches Misstrauen verursacht. In der Perzeption vieler Europäer hat Deutschland als größte und mächtigste Wirtschaftsmacht in Europa das Kernprinzip der politischen Solidarität wiederholt nicht beachtet und nicht vorgelebt. Aus diesen Fehlern muss Deutschland nun die richtigen Schlussfolgerungen für seine „Zeitenwende“ ziehen, um weitere kostspielige Fehlentscheidungen und außenpolitische Kollateralschäden bei seiner künftigen Energiewende zu vermeiden.
Initial data analysis: A new technology not yet ready to use
Authors: Vach Werner
Published: November 2022

In the ongoing discussion on improving quality and reproducibility of research, the data pipeline had been identified as one crucial element. Everything happening with the data already prior to the final analysis may have a highly relevant impact on the final analysis itself and its interpretation. Consequently, there is an increased focus on these processes. Sound practices for initial data analyses (IDA) have been described and the rigorous use of IDA has been advocated. However, IDA can only have a positive impact on research quality if findings from a systematic data screening lead to reasonable changes in the final analysis or its interpretation. In this communication some general challenges in finding adequate responses to findings from data screening are identified. They reflect a lack of knowledge and consensus. Consequently, rigorous future use of IDA can only be advocated if guidance for responding to data screening findings is further developed. With the knowledge present today, IDA may do more harm than good.
Bīt mēseri at Aššur
Authors: Schwemer Daniel
Published: November 2022

A 191, a Neo-Assyrian tablet from the Haus des Beschwörungspriesters in Aššur, preserves instructions for the performance of an apotropaic ritual called Bīt mēseri (“house of enclosure”). The tablet, which is edited here for the first time, offers a version of the ceremony that is markedly different from the standard Bīt mēseri ritual known from other first-millennium sources found at Nineveh, Aššur, and various Babylonian sites. Whereas the core rites with their apotropaic images (figurines and paintings) are far less complex than their counterparts in the standard ritual, the ceremony attested on A 191 also includes elements that are absent in other Bīt mēseri sources. These elements include a Pazuzu rite, ointments, and the burning of incense, all of which are known from other āšipūtu (exorcistic) text series, such as Muššuʾu, Qutāru, the Zi-pà Compendium, and the Pazuzu Compendium.
A felsőoktatási hallgatók munkával szembeni elvárásainak elemzése Kano-modell segítségével
Authors: Kotsis Ágnes , Darnai Balázs
Published: November 2022

A TANULMÁNY CÉLJA

A tanulmány célja vizsgálni a felsőoktatási hallgatók munkával szembeni elvárásait a Kano-modell segítségével a termékminőség öt kategóriája szerint, azaz azonosítani az alapelvárásokat, teljesítmény, vonzó, hátrányos és semleges jellemzőket. A modellel elsődlegesen az volt a célunk, hogy képet kapjunk a felhasználó szempontjából legfontosabb termék, jelen esetben munka jellemzőkről, és azok elégedettséget befolyásoló hatásáról. Másodsorban megvizsgálni, hogy van-e különbség a felsőoktatásban különböző képzéseken résztvevő hallgatók elvárásai között.

ALKALMAZOTT MÓDSZERTAN

A kérdőíves felmérés N=390 fő megkérdezésével történt a Debreceni Egyetem és a Nyíregyházi Egyetem gazdasági felsőoktatási szakképzéses és alapszakos, valamint mérnök mester szakos hallgatói körében. Az eredmények kiértékelésében a Kano-modell módszertana valamint annak továbbfejlesztett V-ös modellje szerint történt a leggyakoribb kategória meghatározásával. Emellett az elégedettségi (SI) és elégedetlenségi (DI) indexeket elemeztük nemek, életkor és végzettségi szint szerint statisztikai F-próba lefuttatásával.

EREDMÉNYEK

A Kano-modell alapján a hallgatók számára a munka egy vágyott termék, nincsenek vele szemben alapelvárásaik. Szakok szintje szerint egyetlen különbség az, hogy a mesteres vegyész hallgatóknak a karrier lehetőség kissé elvárt tulajdonság volt. Úgy tűnik, hogy a gazdasági alap és FOSZ-os hallgatóknál az alapelvárások helyett a vonzó teljesítményjellemzők adják a munka kiválasztásának alapját, hiszen ezek hiánya elégedetlenséget okoz, megléte viszont elégedettség érzéssel jár. Ilyen a bér, a karrier lehetőség és a munkatársakkal való kapcsolat. Kissé vonzó tulajdonság a képesség, tudás kihasználása, a foglalkoztatás időtartama, a modern környezet, a kapcsolat a főnökkel, vonzó a szakterület illeszkedése, a home-office. A férfiak számára számos a munka tartalmát illető tulajdonság vagy a tulajdonos semleges, míg a nőknek kissé vonzó, vagy vonzó. Semleges jellemző még mindkét nemnél a végzettség illeszkedése, azaz ez nem fontos az álláskeresés során, ha van karrier lehetőség, megfelelő bér. A férfiakat kevesebb jellemző érdekli, míg a nők jobban örülnek egy-egy jellemzőnek.

GYAKORLATI JAVASLATOK

A friss diplomások alkalmazása kapcsán a munkáltatóknak fontos tisztában lenni az elégedettséget befolyásoló tényezőkkel, mivel az elégedetlenség alacsonyabb termelékenységgel, magasabb fluktuációval jár együtt. Segítséget jelenthet akár a toborzás kiválasztás során, a munkakörtervezésnél is, amelyek hosszú távon egyértelműen hozzájárulhatnak a munkáltatói hírnév fejlesztéséhez. Érdemes a bér és karrier lehetőségeket előre kommunikálni a jelentkezők felé, a munkatársakkal való kapcsolatot próbaidőn belül tesztelni.

 

Köszönetnyilvánítás: "A tanulmány az EFOP3.6.3-VEKOP-16-2017-00007-"Tehetségből fiatal kutató" - A kutatói életpályát támogató tevékenységek a felsőoktatásban projekt támogatásával készült."
Moving Towards Meaningful Change, One Uncomfortable Conversation at a Time
Authors: Leclair Marichelle , Wali Sahr , Melro Carolyn , Ladak Zeenat
Published: November 2022

The concept of health equity in the management of the pandemic has captured the attention of many within the field of health services and policy research and has shaped the identity of a generation of young scholars. This commentary summarizes the work done by the Student Working Group of the Canadian Association of Health Services and Policy Research to meaningfully engage with the concept as part of a seminar series, as well as the limits of that work. As part of efforts to address those limits, the Student Working Group has joined forces with the Healthy Populations Journal to develop a special issue on health equity. We invite all trainees, patient partners, and knowledge users who are committed to moving the conversation on health equity forward to contribute to this special issue.
Roles of the cumulus–oocyte transzonal network and the Fragile X protein family in oocyte competence
Authors: Karen Nenonene Elolo , Trottier-Lavoie Mallorie , Marchais Mathilde , Bastien Alexandre , Gilbert Isabelle , Macaulay Angus D , Khandjian Edouard W , Maria Luciano Alberto , Lodde Valentina , Viger Robert S , Robert Claude
Published: November 2022

In brief

RNA granules travel through the cumulus cell network of transzonal projections which is associated with oocyte developmental competence, and RNA packaging involves RNA-binding proteins of the Fragile X protein family.

The determinants of oocyte developmental competence have puzzled scientists for decades. It is known that follicular conditions can nurture the production of a high-quality oocyte, but the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. Somatic cumulus cells most proximal to the oocyte are known to have cellular extensions that reach across the zona pellucida and contact with the oocyte plasma membrane. Herein, it was found that transzonal projections (TZPs) network quality is associated with developmental competence. Knowing that ribonucleoparticles are abundant within TZPs, the distribution of RNA-binding proteins was studied. The Fragile X-related proteins (FXR1P and FXR2P) and two partnering protein families, namely cytoplasmic FMRP-interacting protein and nuclear FMRP-interacting protein, exhibited distinctive patterns consistent with roles in regulating mRNA packaging, transport, and translation. The expression of green fluorescent protein (GFP)–FMRP fusion protein in cumulus cells showed active granule formation and their transport and transfer through filipodia connecting with neighboring cells. Near the projections’ ends was found the cytoskeletal anchoring protein Filamin A and active protein synthesis sites. This study highlights key proteins involved in delivering mRNA to the oocyte. Thus, cumulus cells appear to indeed support the development of high-quality oocytes via the transzonal network.