bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Economy Base of Tourism Industry in Sri Lanka
Authors: Jayasundera Adhiga Manik
Published: November 2021

The main purpose of the research is to contribute to developing knowledge in tourism industry of Sri Lanka. In this paper the author highlights some areas which should be properly explored for the sustainable growth in the sector of tourism and economic development in Sri Lanka. The author recommends promoting Sri Lanka as a product to the tourists, it is necessary to concentrate on the quality of the product as it helps in lengthening the duration of stay for current customers and thereby emerging new customers. Sri Lanka has a long history of tourism, dating back to the times of King Rawana’s period (about 4000 years ago). According to different sources of historical accounts, many of the foreigners have visited Sri Lanka for many different reasons from various regions. Indian ancient calligraphy provide ample evidence of Hanuman and Prince Rama visited Sri Lanka not as tourists in the modern sense, but for a different reason about 4000 years ago. Local ancient chronicles also mention about Venerable Fa Hien from China, Marco Polo from Italy and Ibn Battuta from Arab also have visited Sri Lanka. The first Asians who visited were Arabs for trading purposes in 2nd – 3rd Century A.D. and later Portuguese landed by a mistake in early 16th Century (1505 A.D.), followed by Dutch and British culminating as invaders. Tourism in Sri Lanka is growing rapidly, for centuries and has been a popular place of attraction for foreign travelers. Tourist income is one of the important segments that contribute to the Sri Lankan economy. After Sri Lanka’s Independence in 1948 the promotion of tourism was considered by re-establishing the Ceylon Tourist Board which took over the function of the Tourist Bureau. More formal recognition for the country’s tourism sector was given with the enactment of Act No.10 of 1966 as Sri Lanka Tourist Board. The history of Sri Lanka helps to understand better this country, its culture, social and environmental impact and economic growth.
The Impact of the 2008 Global Crisis on the Banking System
Authors: Kaya Halil D.
Published: November 2021

This paper examines the impact of the 2008-2009 Global Crisis on the banking systems of the countries around the world. Nine variables are examined which include bank concentration, bank deposits, 5-bank asset concentration, liquid liabilities, net loans from non-resident banks, outstanding loans from non-resident banks, offshore bank deposits, remittances, and consolidated foreign claims. The paper looks at how each of these banking system variables had changed before the crisis, during the crisis, and after the crisis. The results show that during the run-up to the crisis, 8 out of the 9 variables had not changed significantly (only net loans from non-resident banks had declined significantly), therefore we argue that there was almost no sign of an upcoming crisis during the run-up period. Still, policymakers may use such a sudden significant decline in loans from non-resident banks as a warning sign. The results show that, during the crisis period, the net loans from non-resident banks continued to decline. Also, during the crisis period, offshore deposits significantly declined. During this period, there was no significant change in the other variables. Therefore, we conclude that the crisis mainly affected the loans from non-resident banks and the offshore deposits. When the post-crisis period is examined, the results show that bank deposits and loans from non-resident banks had increased significantly. There was no significant change in the other variables. We suggest policymakers to use these findings when developing strategies to protect their country’s banking system in the face of an economic crisis.
The Impact of Training on the Employees’ Career Path Development Case of the Algerian company: Oran Port Enterprise
Authors: Radia Miss Bessaim , Ibtissem Mrs Gadi
Published: November 2021

This paper aimed to clarify the role that the training employees’ plays on the development of their career path in the company, training becomes a tool that company must use it to improve their performance and so achieve their goals, it becomes an investment in Human Resources! This study focused on two sides, the steps of training in the Oran Port Enterprises especially determination of training needs which is the most important step to develop the competency of employees, and the career path improvement in this company. The purpose of this article is answer the main question of the study which is to know how training contributes in the career path development of employees, and which can affect the performance of the Algerian company: Oran Port Enterprise. Firstable, we counted on the stages of scientific research by gathering information about the Oran Port Enterprise, after that we chose our sample; we elaborated the questionnaire to answer the questions. Secondly, we analysed the process of training in this company. Our sample contained 50 employees, we relied the descriptive analytical approach, a set of tools were used which is: observation, interview guide, questionnaire, in addition to the internal documents, the result of study assured that training contributes to drawing employees’ career path, by gaining knowledge and experience and thus occupying several positions and jobs in the company, the study concluded the following recommendations: providing sufficient period to train employees, involve all stakeholders in the process of designing the training plan, relying on training as basis for promotion and internal recruitment, and thus reducing costs. Finally, we have reached that training is an investment in human resources in the medium-and long-term, and it allows adapting with transformations and organizational changes in the level of external environment and within organization.
Handling the Crisis: A Keynesian vs. Austrian Analysis of the “Great Recession”
Authors: Fast Richard
Published: November 2021

This paper explores the differences between the mainstream economic interventionist view associated with John Maynard Keynes and the heterodox, non-interventionist Austrian School perspective associated with Friedrich Hayek on the Great Recession of 2007-2009. The literature review compares and contrasts articles explaining each view as they attempt to solve the problem of ending the recession. The heterodox Austrian School/Hayekian view is that central banks should take a hands-off approach to recessions, whereas the mainstream neo-Keynesian view is that central banks should take a more active role through monetary easing in an attempt to end the Great Recession. These two approaches are at odds with each other, but through this thorough and robust analysis, we will understand the similarities (if any) as well as substantial differences and what they can tell us for the next recession. Also included is a section on Methodology to highlight the differences in how economists of both camps conduct their research and present their findings to argue their case. The paper uses an analytical framework to show how the Austrian/Hayekian and Keynesian approaches differ both in content and methodology. The Keynesian perspective makes use of graphs and empirical data in the primary sources referenced to prove that the federal government and the Federal Reserve should have acted more quickly to implement an interventionist economic recovery. On the other hand, the Hayekian/Austrian approach makes use of methodological individualism and praxeology as the lens with which to examine the Great Recession and to show that such economic interventionism had the opposite of the intended effect; intervention, according to the Austrians, made the crisis worse. Not only are their conclusions different, but the means by which they examine the crisis are different as well. Finally, the paper examines some areas for future research on both sides to make each case stronger. Special emphasis is placed on how to develop the arguments of these two views further with regard to future recessions, particularly of the magnitude of the 2007-8 financial crisis.
The Impact Of Marketing Innovation On The Performance Of Small And Medium Enterprises In Nigeria
Authors: Yelmi Arkila , Yahaya Yakubu , Muhammed Abdullahi , Garuba Oyikwu Lillian
Published: November 2021

The intensity of global market competition has created dynamic and fast-changing business environment which has affected all enterprises including small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). SMEs have, therefore, realized the need to explore, exploit and deploy marketing innovation and innovative strategies in order to stay competitive in the changing business environment. In both developed and developing countries across the world, SMEs form an important fragment of the local economic system. Therefore, the objective of this study was to assess the impact of marketing innovation on the performance of SMEs in Nigeria. The study was guided by an epistemological research philosophy adopting a positivist research paradigm. The research design was cross-sectional survey design using both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The target population for this study was 782 registered SMEs by and the sample size was 120 respondents derived using Fisher’s formulae. This study used a self-administered, closed, and open-ended questionnaire to obtain quantitative data. The used descriptive statistics such as mean, standard deviation, median and proportions using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24 and Microsoft Excel. Regression analysis and correlation analysis were used to determine the direction and strength of the relationship between the independent and the dependent variables. The study results revealed that whereas marketing innovation had a positive and significant influence on performance of SMEs in Nigeria. Study concluded that in this ever-changing technology, adoption of various innovations by SMEs is a key component of enhancing their performance. Therefore, enterprise owners need to be proactive in adopting different innovations since they all are linked positively to the performance of enterprises.
Strategije gledanja
Authors: Rukavina Katarina
Published: November 2021

Rad istražuje model društvenosti, interakcije i participacije kao političke elemente postmoderne umjetnosti. Postmoderno stanje nastupa nakon propasti glavne ideje modernizma, što se temelji na vjeri u napredak i emancipaciju čovječanstva odnosno nakon kraha velikih spekulativnih pripovijesti poput idealizma, scijentizma, marksizma ili utopije o promjeni svijeta pomoću umjetnosti. Otuda se kao opće mjesto nadaje teza da umjetnost nema više onu ulogu kakva joj se pripisivala od
XIX. stoljeća nadalje, kao što je politička borba, kritika društva ili socijalni angažman, odnosno da više nema funkciju kritike, onoga što upozorava i što se avangardno suprotstavlja svemu postojećem. Nasuprot takvom stavu, rad nastoji podastrijeti kritički i politički potencijal postmoderne umjetnosti, pri čemu se usmjerava na umjetničku praksu nakon
1990-ih te njezino isticanje relacija, susreta i interakcije s publikom. Riječ je o aproprijaciji avangardnih strategija, ali s povijesnim odmakom i drukčijim kontekstom.
DETAILED EVALUATION OF PERVAPORATION MODELING TO OBTAINING ANHYDROUS ETHANOL
Authors: Cavalcanti Camila , Ramos Wagner , Brito Romildo , Brito Karoline
Published: November 2021

Pervaporation requires operation at mild temperatures and provides low energy consumption, which makes this technology economically attractive. However, pervaporation is not yet a widespread process in the industry. One of the justifications is the complexity in the quantification of variables related to the membrane in the most diverse conditions. This factor results in the absence of generic models in the simulation software. This work aims at the rigorous phenomenological modeling of a pervaporation process using a polyetherimide membrane intended for the dehydration of ethanol. The model was developed on the Aspen Custom Modeler™ platform. Two approaches were implemented and compared: PERKAT and PERVAP models, being the last one the best model. The main variables of the process were evaluated. It was possible to verify the capacity of separation of the pervaporation module in breaking the barriers of the azeotrope, reaching a product with a high level of purity in ethanol, and recovery of up to 99.8%. In addition, the generic PERVAP model was exported to Aspen Plus™ and a cascade pervaporation unit was simulated. The specific energy consumption was calculated and compared to that of traditional separation processes. A 70% reduction was obtained compared to the most economical distillation configuration.
Experimental investigation of scouring around a single spur under clear water conditions
Authors: Özyaman Cansu , Yerdelen Cahit , Eris Ebru , Daneshfaraz Rasoul
Published: November 2021

This study presents the effect of different parameters on the scouring process around spur dikes. Our research group's stated objective was to evaluate the effects of sediment gradation, flow depth, spur angle and spur length on the scouring process. Since most existing studies generally employed uniform sediment, in this study uniform and non-uniform sediment were selected. Experiments were made in a rectangular open channel in uniform flow conditions. Results showed that the effect of the spur dike length and the orientation angle on sediment scour varies with the type of sediment used. Scour volumes were 40% greater in uniform sediments than in non-uniform sediments. Measured scour depth was maximum at spurs perpendicular to the flow, whereas the scour volume was maximum at spurs directed upstream. The scour depth increased with an increase in the spur length; however, the effect of spur length on scouring varied at a contraction rate of 0.29 for uniform sediments and 0.36 for non-uniform sediments. A multiple regression analysis was also performed, and four equations were suggested to predict the scour depth and scour volume. Comparisons were made with the literature equations applicable for clear-water scouring to check the suggested equation. Because of the wide range of contraction ratios considered in this study, the equations which considered the contraction effect yielded better estimates.
Physicochemical, Interaction & Topological Descriptors vs. hMAO-A Inhibition of Aplysinopsin Analogs: A Boulevard to the Discovery of Semi-synthetic Antidepression Agents
Authors: Singla Rajeev K. , Ashraf Ghulam Md. , Ganash Magdah , G. Varadaraj Bhat , Shen Bairong
Published: November 2021

Background:

Depression, a neurological disorder, is globally the 4th leading cause of chronic disabilities
in human beings.

Objective:

This study aimed to model a 2D-QSAR equation that can facilitate the researchers to design better aplysinopsin
analogs with potent hMAO-A inhibition.

Methods:

Aplysinopsin analogs dataset were subjected to ADME assessment for drug-likeness suitability using
StarDrop software before modeled equation. 2D-QSAR equations were generated using VLife MDS 4.6. Dataset was
segregated into training and test set using different methodologies, followed by variable selection. Model development
was done using principal component regression, partial least square regression, and multiple regression.

Results:

The dataset has successfully qualified the drug-likeness criteria in ADME simulation, with more than 90%
of molecules cleared the ideal conditions, including intrinsic solubility, hydrophobicity, CYP3A4 2C9pKi, hERG
pIC50, etc. 112 models were developed using multiparametric consideration of methodologies. The best six models
were discussed with their extent of significance and prediction capabilities. ALP97 was emerged out as the most
significant model out of all, with ~83% of the variance in the training set, the internal predictive ability of ~74%,
while having the external predictive capability of ~79%.

Conclusion:

ADME assessment suggested that aplysinopsin analogs are worth investigating. Interaction among the
descriptors in the way of summation or multiplication products are quite influential and yield significant 2D-QSAR
models with good prediction efficiency. This model can be used to design a more potent hMAO-A inhibitor with an
aplysinopsin scaffold, which can then contribute to the treatment of depression and other neurological disorders.
Mediating effect of ethical climate on the relationship of personality types and employees mindfulness
Authors: Ramos Rowena Imelda A. , Mata Ryan Ray M. , Nacar Rosalie C.
Published: November 2021

Globalization and technological advancement bring changes to the organization as well as to the behaviors of the employees. As a result, this descriptive-correlational study examined the effect of perceived ethical climate on individual differences – personality types and psychological state – mindfulness among employees. Purposive sampling was utilized to include 203 participants from different higher institutions who agreed to answer a questionnaire in google forms that were distributed through their emails.  Results revealed respondents’ personality types have high levels of agreeableness, conscientiousness, and open-mindedness with moderate level of extraversion and low level of negative emotionality. Individual and organizational mindfulness of the participants were considerably very high. The participants perceived their organizations to have high level of consideration on rules, standard operating procedures and law and professional codes with moderate regard personal morality. More importantly, results of structural equation modeling established the claim that ethical climate increases the significant association of personality types to employees’ mindfulness. With the evident association of personality types and mindfulness, trainings should be provided to enhance employees’ personality and deal with possible differences. The significant mediating effect of ethical climate encourage organizational leaders to establish a work environment that uplifts employee’s morale to increase mindfulness.
The impact of the digital revolution on the global economy
Authors: Imamov Marsel , Semenikhina Natalia
Published: November 2021

Today, the economy is undergoing serious changes based on new digital technologies and artificial intelligence, which has affected serious qualitative and structural shifts. The purpose of this work is to study the impact of new technologies on economic processes, the advantages and disadvantages of the rapid development of new technologies. The significance of the research is determined by the relevance of the topic of the work, as well as the importance of tracking the processes of the world economy. The authors conducted a study and revealed that the digital economy is influenced by trends in the use of modern technologies, described the consequences of these changes, as well as the possibility of preventing problems. Globalization, integration, acceleration of integration processes, industrialization, environmental, demographic and political factors of economic life around the world require balanced development of the national economy with special attention. This article examines the ways of economic development and the following consequences. Analysing the results, it can be noted that it is impossible to say unequivocally what can negatively or positively affect the development of the digital economy, because there is an unpredictability factor that needs to be constantly taken into account in research.
PENGEMBANGAN PROSES PEMBUATAN BIOETANOL GENERASI II DARI LIMBAH TANDAN KOSONG KELAPA SAWIT
Authors:   Politeknik Kampar, Khairiah Hanifah , Ridwan Muhammad ,   Politeknik Kampar
Published: November 2021

Tandan kosong kelapa sawit (TKKS) yang merupakan sumber gula mengandung selulosa yang tinggi (75-80%), sehingga memiliki potensi besar untuk dijadikan bioetanol. Tujuan penelitian adalah menggunakan kembali tandan kosong kelapa sawit sebagai bahan utama dalam pembuatan bioetanol generasi II dengan melakukan pengembangan proses. Proses pertama yaitu pretreatment dengan menambahkan NaOH dan H2SO4 2%, dilanjutkan proses fermentasi menggunakan perbandingan Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Aspergillus oryzae dengan perbandingan 5,10,15 dan 20% selama 7 hari. Terakhir adalah proses destilasi pada suhu 79 oC. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian, larutan NaOH lebih banyak menurunkan kadar lignin dan hemiselulosa sebesar 12.22% dan 45.17%, sedangkan selulosa mengalami kenaikan sebesar 71.34%. pada proses fermentasi, maka didapatkan variasi konsentrasi dan waktu optimum proses fermentasi pada penelitian ini adalah penambahan konsentrasi Saccharomyces cerevisiae 5%, dengan volume bioetanol yang dihasilkan sebesar 14.4 ml, densitas 0.8757 g/ml dan kadar glukosa yang tertinggal sebanyak 8.48%.
Wpływ pracy w czasie pandemii covid-19 na stres personelu pielęgniarskiego
Authors: Grzelak Lech , Szwarc Piotr
Published: November 2021

Wstęp. Obciążenie stresem należy do poważnych zagrożeń zawodowych w pielęgniarstwie. Pandemia COVID-19 dodatkowo postawiła wiele nowych wyzwań przed personelem medycznym, co może powodować większe obciążenia psychiczne. 

Cel. Celem badań była ocena wpływu pandemii COVID-19, na stres personelu pielęgniarskiego, niepracującego w bezpośrednim kontakcie z zakażonymi.

Materiały i metody. Badaniem objęto grupę 65 osób z personelu pielęgniarskiego, pracującego w siedmiu oddziałach szpitalnych. Wiek badanych mieścił się w zakresie 20–65 lat. W badaniach wykorzystano ankietę opracowaną na użytek badania oraz jedno standardowe narzędzia pomiaru, tj. Skalę Odczuwanego Stresu (PSS-10).

Wyniki. Wybuch pandemii spowodował zmianę w odczuwaniu stresu u 98,5% badanych. 89,2% osób zauważyło u siebie nasilone objawy stresu. Stres potęgowały przede wszystkim zmiany na poziomie organizacji pracy oraz lęk przed zakażeniem i przeniesieniem wirusa z pracy na rodzinę. U 6,2% badanych często pojawiały się myśli o rezygnacji lub zmianie pracy. Po roku pracy w pandemii, stres utrzymywał się na poziomie średnim i niskim.

Wnioski. Poziom odczuwania stresu, mierzonego rok po wybuchu pandemii, nie wskazuje na obciążenie nadmiernym stresem, a na fazę adaptacji w sytuacji kryzysowej. Skutki pracy w długotrwałym stresie mogą być widoczne dopiero w przyszłości. Wskazane jest dalsze monitorowanie stresu i objęcie personelu pielęgniarskiego wsparciem psychologicznym.
Ocena stopnia deficytu w zakresie podstawowych czynności dnia codziennego
Authors: Maciejewska Maria Magdalena
Published: November 2021

Wstęp. Starzenie się organizmu jest dynamicznym i nieodwracalnym procesem naszego organizmu.  Możliwość sprawowania samoopieki czyli wykonanie we własnym zakresie czynności takich jak poruszanie się, odżywianie, kontrolowanie potrzeb fizjologicznych i utrzymanie higieny osobistej należy utożsamić z niezależnością.

Cel. Celem pracy jest ocena stopnia deficytu  w zakresie podstawowych czynności dnia codziennego wśród osób objętych opieką długoterminową  stacjonarną.

Materiał i metody. W mojej pracy badawczej narzędziem jest analiza dokumentacji medycznej pacjentów w zakresie skali Barthel.

Wyniki. Analiza uzyskanych badań własnych pozwoliła na sformułowanie następujących wyników:

Płeć ma istotny wpływ  na możliwość  poruszania się badanych osób. Wiek ma znaczny wpływ na możliwość mycia, kąpieli całego ciała. Istnieje istotna zależność pomiędzy miejscem pobytu osób starszych a możliwością korzystania z toalety.

Wnioski. Płeć ma wpływ  na możliwość  poruszania się badanych osób. Wiek ma wpływ na możliwość mycia, kąpieli całego ciała. Istnieje zależność pomiędzy miejscem pobytu osób starszych a możliwością korzystania z toalety.
A systematic review of succession planning in higher education
Authors:   Azman Hashim International Business School, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 54100, Malaysia, et al. Dahlan
Published: November 2021

The purpose of this study is to synthesize the corpus of literature relating to succession planning in higher education, in particular, this paper explores the growth of succession planning practices in the higher education sector, which allows equal opportunity for genders to secure leadership positions in a unique fashion. Through the systematic review of 73 studies related to succession planning in higher education published in scholarly journals and dissertations from university repositories, this paper evidences the growth of empirical research on succession planning. Nonetheless, the current work hardly addresses dearth of succession planning for females in academia particularly in unique contexts that depict organizational, cultural, and personal nuances that heterogeneously submerge performances. Through a synthesis of the literature, this paper proposes areas of research to evaluate the hindrance factors in future empirical studies. The results indicate that further robust studies using action research design, quasi-experiment, and pilot interventions may be relevant to address the leadership crisis in higher education.
Влияние высоких давлений на формирование новых соединений в сплаве Al-=SUB=-86-=/SUB=-Ni-=SUB=-2-=/SUB=-Со-=SUB=-6-=/SUB=-Gd-=SUB=-6-=/SUB=--=SUP=--=SUP=-*-=/SUP=--=/SUP=-
Authors: Меньшикова С.Г. , Бражкин В.В.
Published: November 2021

Abstract The structure, elemental and phase composition of the eutectic alloy Al86Ni2Со6Gd6 (hereinafter referred to as at.%) During the solidification of the melt from 1500oC at a rate of 1000oC/s under high pressure of 3 and 7 GPa have been investigated by X-ray diffraction analysis and electron microscopy. Solidification of the melt under high pressure leads to a change in the phase composition of the alloy and the formation of an anomalously supersaturated solid solution of α-Al (Gd). At a pressure of 7 GPa, new phases were synthesized: Al3Gd * (like Al3U) containing Co and Ni, with a primitive cube structure (cP4/2) with a lattice parameter a = 4.285 ± 0.002 Angstrem and Al8Co4Gd * (like Al8Cr4Gd) with a tetragonal structure (tI26/1) with parameters a = 8.906 ± 0.003 Angstrem and c = 5.150 ± 0.003 Angstrem. The structure of all the samples obtained is homogeneous, dense, finely dispersed, without shrinkage cavities and pores. The average microhardness of the samples is high due to solid solution and precipitation hardening.
Ядерная спиновая динамика и флуктуации в анизотропной модели большого ящика
Authors: Шумилин А.В. , Смирнов Д.С.
Published: November 2021

We consider the central spin model in the box approximation taking into account an external magnetic field and the anisotropy of the hyperfine interaction. From the exact Hamiltonian diagonalization we obtain analytical expressions for the nuclear spin dynamics in the limit of many nuclear spins. We predict the nuclear spin precession in zero magnetic field for the case of the anisotropic interaction between electron and nuclear spins. We calculate and describe the nuclear spin noise spectra in the thermodynamic equilibrium. The obtained results can be used for the analysis of the nuclear spin induced current fluctuations in organic semiconductors.
Х-ray Study and Computer Simulation of the Structure of Amorphous-Crystalline Titanite
Authors: Sidorova O.V. , Aleshina L.A. , Fofanov A.D.
Published: November 2021

The structure of amorphous-crystalline titanite obtained by mechanical activation was studied by X-ray diffraction and simulation methods. The short-range order characteristics were calculated using Finbak-Warren's method. It was found that the coordination numbers of metal atoms decreased as the result of titanite grinding. The atomic configurations of short-range order of ground titanite were constructed by translation of titanite unit cell. The theoretical X-ray patterns were calculated using Debye's method and were compared with the experimental curves. The structure of ground titanite in the mill with centrifugal factor 40 g was described satisfactorily by the model of mechanical mixture of clusters containing 2016 atoms, disordered during the molecular dynamics with clusters containing 12096 atoms. The increase of grinding intensity led to the sharp decrease of sizes of small cluster.
Prevalence of antibodies in Iraqi Urinary Tract Infection patients using radial immunodiffusion (RID) assay
Authors: Mohammed Mohsen Saja , Wisam malik Anas
Published: November 2021

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is an infection every place in the urinary tract that may be in the urethra, bladder, or kidneys by microbes. Greatest UTIs are affected by bacteria, but some are affected by fungi and, in rare cases, by viruses. UTI is the most significant common infection in humans. This study deals with the prevalence of antibodies in UTI patients; this study aims to determine the level of antibodies in UTI patients and compare with healthy controls by using the radial immunodiffusion (RID) test. The study was done during the period November 2019 to April 2020 on UTI Iraqi patients. The study included 40 patients and 20 healthy controls. Results show UTI infection occurs in females more than males also; the mean age is 40 years. All the patients with UTI showed decreased IgM serum levels and increased IgG compared with the control group. IgG, IgG, and IgM showed high significance between two UTI patients and the control group groups, while IgM doesn’t show significant differences between study groups.
Schizophrenia and refractory status epilepticus in a male patient with anti-NMDA auto-immune encephalitis: A case report
Authors: Llerena-Rengel Pablo Andrés , Villamarín-Granja Luis Felipe , Vélez-Páez Jorge Luis
Published: November 2021

Encephalitis is the inflammation of the central nervous system cells as a result of activation of immune cells, antibodies, or proteins by a reaction with pathogens or self-body components; when this happens, a malfunction of the immune system is known as this an auto-immune disease. Auto-immune encephalitis characterizes 21% of all encephalitis and manifests with loss of memory and cognition, personality deviations, neurologic deficit, aphasia, seizures, and epilepsy. Treatment is guaranteed using steroids, immunoglobulins, and plasmapheresis, and as a second-line therapy, cyclophosphamide or rituximab is used. In cases related to tumors, surgery is part of the treatment. An unusual case of auto-immune encephalitis is reported.
Technology-Based Interventions for Cancer Caregivers: Concept Analysis
Authors: Su Zhaohui , Li Xiaoshan , McDonnell Dean , Fernandez Andrea A , Flores Bertha E , Wang Jing
Published: November 2021

Background

Cancer is a taxing chronic disease that demands substantial care, most of which is shouldered by informal caregivers. As a result, cancer caregivers often have to manage considerable challenges that could result in severe physical and psychological health consequences. Technology-based interventions have the potential to address many, if not all, of the obstacles caregivers encounter while caring for patients with cancer. However, although the application of technology-based interventions is on the rise, the term is seldom defined in research or practice. Considering that the lack of conceptual clarity of the term could compromise the effectiveness of technology-based interventions for cancer caregivers, timely research is needed to bridge this gap.

Objective

This study aims to clarify the meaning of technology-based interventions in the context of cancer caregiving and provide a definition that can be used by cancer caregivers, patients, clinicians, and researchers to facilitate evidence-based research and practice.

Methods

The 8-step concept analysis method by Walker and Avant was used to analyze the concept of technology-based interventions in the context of cancer caregiving. PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Scopus were searched for studies that examined technology-based interventions for cancer caregivers.

Results

The defining attributes of technology-based interventions were recognized as being accessible, affordable, convenient, and user-friendly. On the basis of insights gained on the defining attributes, antecedents to, and consequences of technology-based interventions through the concept analysis process, technology-based interventions were defined as the use of technology to design, develop, and deliver health promotion contents and strategies aimed at inducing or improving positive physical or psychological health outcomes in cancer caregivers.

Conclusions

This study clarified the meaning of technology-based interventions in the context of cancer caregiving and provided a clear definition that can be used by caregivers, patients, clinicians, and researchers to facilitate evidence-based oncology practice. A clear conceptualization of technology-based interventions lays foundations for better intervention design and research outcomes, which in turn have the potential to help health care professionals address the needs and preferences of cancer caregivers more cost-effectively.
Discovery of Arthritis in Psoriasis Patients for Early Rheumatological Referral (DAPPER): Protocol for a Longitudinal Observational Study
Authors: van Hal Tamara W , Van den Reek Juul MPA , Groenewoud Hans MM , Pasch Marcel C , Van den Hoogen Frank HJ , Wenink Mark H , De Jong Elke MGJ
Published: November 2021

Background

One in three patients with psoriasis will develop psoriatic arthritis (PsA). If left untreated, this can lead to pain, impaired function, and irreversible joint damage. Timely recognition and referral to a rheumatologist are therefore key. However, current methods used to screen patients with psoriasis for those who might benefit from referral to a rheumatologist are not performing well enough.

Objective

The Discovery of Arthritis in Psoriasis Patients for Early Rheumatological Referral (DAPPER) study is designed to determine the prevalence of PsA in a psoriasis population and to find parameters that can be used to develop a new or enhance an existing instrument for a rheumatological referral.

Methods

DAPPER is a longitudinal observational study with a 1-year follow-up. Patients with psoriasis (N=300) who are treated at an outpatient dermatological clinic will be screened extensively for signs and symptoms of PsA by a trained rheumatologist. If there is clinical suspicion of PsA and the patient is not yet treated by a rheumatologist, referral to the Department of Rheumatology will follow for confirmation of the diagnosis and further care. After 1 year, data on changes in quality of life and PsA and psoriasis disease activity will be collected from the referred patients. The screening visit will be used to gather demographical and medical data, which can later be used to develop the aforementioned screening instrument.

Results

Inclusion started in June 2019 and finished in June 2021. Follow-up with newly discovered patients with PsA is ongoing.

Conclusions

The DAPPER study is specifically designed to improve the detection of existing PsA in a dermatologic outpatient setting. Although internal validity will be tested, external validity will have to be checked using a second validation cohort. To predict the development of PsA in the future, longitudinal/prospective data collection is required and will be performed in a follow-up study (DAPPER-i).

Trial Registration

Dutch Trial Register NTR7604; https://www.trialregister.nl/trial/7397

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/31647
Characterization of Unlinked Cases of COVID-19 and Implications for Contact Tracing Measures: Retrospective Analysis of Surveillance Data (Preprint)
Authors: Chong Ka Chun , Jia Katherine , Lee Shui Shan , Hung Chi Tim , Wong Ngai Sze , Lai Francisco Tsz Tsun , Chau Nancy , Yam Carrie Ho Kwan , Chow Tsz Yu , Wei Yuchen , Guo Zihao , Yeoh Eng Kiong
Published: November 2021

BACKGROUND

Contact tracing and intensive testing programs are essential for controlling the spread of COVID-19. However, conventional contact tracing is resource intensive and may not result in the tracing of all cases due to recall bias and cases not knowing the identity of some close contacts. Few studies have reported the epidemiological features of cases not identified by contact tracing (“unlinked cases”) or described their potential roles in seeding community outbreaks.

OBJECTIVE

For this study, we characterized the role of unlinked cases in the epidemic by comparing their epidemiological profile with the linked cases; we also estimated their transmission potential across different settings.

METHODS

We obtained rapid surveillance data from the government, which contained the line listing of COVID-19 confirmed cases during the first three waves in Hong Kong. We compared the demographics, history of chronic illnesses, epidemiological characteristics, clinical characteristics, and outcomes of linked and unlinked cases. Transmission potentials in different settings were assessed by fitting a negative binomial distribution to the observed offspring distribution.

RESULTS

Time interval from illness onset to hospital admission was longer among unlinked cases than linked cases (median 5.00 days versus 3.78 days; P<.001), with a higher proportion of cases whose condition was critical or serious (13.0% versus 8.2%; P<.001). The proportion of unlinked cases was associated with an increase in the weekly number of local cases (P=.049). Cluster transmissions from the unlinked cases were most frequently identified in household settings, followed by eateries and workplaces, with the estimated probability of cluster transmissions being around 0.4 for households and 0.1-0.3 for the latter two settings.

CONCLUSIONS

The unlinked cases were positively associated with time to hospital admission, severity of infection, and epidemic size—implying a need to design and implement digital tracing methods to complement current conventional testing and tracing. To minimize the risk of cluster transmissions from unlinked cases, digital tracing approaches should be effectively applied in high-risk socioeconomic settings, and risk assessments should be conducted to review and adjust the policies.
Amelioration of Cadmium-induced oxidative damage in Wistar rats by Vitamin C, Zinc and N-Acetylcysteine (Preprint)
Authors: Poli Venkataramanaiah , Madduru Renuka , Motireddy Srinivasulu Reddy
Published: November 2021

BACKGROUND

The present study was performed to determine the protective effects of Vitamin C, Zinc, and N-Acetylcysteine individually or in combinations with Cd, to monitor the amelioration capability against Cd-induced oxidative damage in Wistar rats.

OBJECTIVE

We investigated and demonstrated that Cadmium is a toxic element that damages rats' liver and kidney tissues. Vitamin C, Zinc, and NAC have been proven to have protective roles against Cd-toxic effects.

METHODS

Nine groups of rats were studied as the experimental group. The present experiment was conducted for 45 days. Liver and kidneys were excised for biochemical determinations by assaying antioxidant enzymes and lipid oxidation products to assess the impact of Cd-toxicity and its amelioration by co-administration of Vitamin C, Zinc, and NAC along with Cd.

RESULTS

Basal Metabolic rates and Tissue Respiration rates of liver and kidney significantly decreased (P < 0.05) during Cd toxicity. Serum biochemical parameters were also found to be significant altered to cope up with Cd toxicity. All the antioxidant enzymes and products were significant inhibited (P < 0.05) or elevated in rat liver and kidney tissues during Cd-induced toxicity.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest a whereas with co-administration of Vitamin C, Zinc, and NAC, into rats demonstrate the amelioration of oxidative damage induced by Cd-toxicity. From the results obtained in the present study, all the agents tested had protective effects against Cd-induced oxidative damage.

CLINICALTRIAL

No
Applying Spring Security Framework with KeyCloak-based OAuth2 to Protect Microservice Architecture APIs for a Health eCoach System: A Proof-of-Concept Study (Preprint)
Authors: Chatterjee Ayan , Prinz Andreas
Published: November 2021

UNSTRUCTURED

The Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) combines medical devices and applications connected to healthcare information technology systems using network technologies. With the flourishing adaptation rate of Internet-enabled medical devices in healthcare applications, we need to guarantee the security and privacy of electronic health records (EHRs) and communications among these IoMT devices, exposed web services, and the underlying infrastructure. This research is a proof-of-concept (PoC) study for implementing an integrated security solution with Spring Security and KeyCloak open-access platform (SSK) to safeguard microservice architecture application programming interfaces (APIs). Subsequently, we extended the security solution with a virtual private network (VPN), Bcrypt hash, API key, network firewall, and secure socket layer (SSL) to build up a digital infrastructure following the Norwegian data protection policies and General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). In this study, we have not proposed any new security solution; however, we have focused on accomplishing a hybrid security solution based on the established frameworks (e.g., Spring Security) and open-access software product (e.g., Keycloak) to protect microservice APIs for a health eCoach system as a PoC study. This study describes the methodological, technical, and practical considerations to protect REST interfaces only and ensuring the privacy of data in the system. We validate our SSK security implementation by theoretical evaluation and experimental testing. In addition, we compare the test results with related studies qualitatively to determine the effectiveness of the hybrid security solution (SSK).
COVID-19 Preventive Behaviors and Health Literacy, Information Evaluation, and Decision-making Skills in Japanese Adults: Cross-sectional Survey Study (Preprint)
Authors: Nakayama Kazuhiro , Yonekura Yuki , Danya Hitomi , Hagiwara Kanako
Published: November 2021

BACKGROUND

Health literacy is important for the prevention of COVID-19 transmission. Research in Japan shows that health literacy is related to skills in evaluating information and decision-making (skills that are not necessarily limited to information about health). Such basic skills are important, particularly when individuals encounter new health issues for which there is insufficient evidence.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to determine the extent to which COVID-19 preventive behaviors were associated with health literacy and skills in evaluating information and making decisions.

METHODS

A web-based questionnaire survey was conducted using a Japanese internet research company. The measures comprised 8 items on COVID-19 preventive behaviors, health literacy items (European Health Literacy Survey Questionnaire), 5 items on information evaluation, and 4 items on decision-making process. Pearson correlations between these variables were calculated. Multivariable analyses were also conducted using the COVID-19 preventive behavior score as a dependent variable.

RESULTS

A total of 3914 valid responses were received.COVID-19 preventive behaviors were significantly correlated with health literacy (r=0.23), information evaluation (r=0.24), and decision-making process (r=0.30). Standardized regression coefficients (health literacy: β=.11; information evaluation: β=.13; decision-making: β=.18) showed that decision-making process contributed the most.

CONCLUSIONS

Although comprehensive health literacy is necessary for COVID-19 preventive behaviors, the skills to evaluate a wide range of information and to make appropriate decisions are no less important. Opportunities for people to acquire these skills should be available at all times.
ЭФФЕКТИВНАЯ РЕАЛИЗАЦИЯ ПОЛНОСВЯЗНЫХ И СВЕРТОЧНЫХ СЛОЕВ ДЛЯ НЕЙРОСЕТЕВЫХ ВЫЧИСЛЕНИЙ НА ЯДРЕ NMC4 С СОПРОЦЕССОРОМ ПЛАВАЮЩЕЙ ТОЧКИ
Authors: Бирюков А.А.
Published: November 2021

еализован набор средств для эффективного выполнения нейросетевых задач для процессоров семейства NeuroMatrix® поколения NMC4, включающий библиотечные функции уровней процессорного ядра и кластера ядер, а также сопутствующие файлы настроек и сценариев их использования в составе фреймворка NMDL.
Caracterización fitolítica de las secuencias sedimentarias del sitio arqueológico El Pichao (Noroeste Argentino)
Authors: Lefebvre Maria Gisela , Colobig Maria de los Milagros , Zucol Alejandro Fabian , Sampietro Vattuone Maria Marta
Published: November 2021

The results of the description of phytoliths recovered from pedosedimentary sequences located in the town of El Pichao (Valle de Santa María, Tucumán, Argentina) belonging to the period of Regional Developments (ca. 1000 - 600 AP) are disclosed. Phytoliths were extracted from the sediment by physical and chemical processing of the samples. The set of phytoliths found allowed the evolution of environmental conditions to be established, leaving evidence of a cold period of arid tendency prior to the establishment of human occupations in El Pichao. During the period of occupation (Regional Developments) the environmental conditions were warmer and more arid than the current ones. Even so, the land was conditioned for its agricultural exploitation, probably with the application of irrigation practices. The presence of phytoliths in the form of a cross (related to maideas) in the middle section of all the agricultural terraces studied appears together with the increase in the number of diatoms, which would indicate that they could have been cultivated intentionally.
Corporalidad, emoción y discurso oral
Authors: Morando Maria Agustina
Published: November 2021

The aim of this paper is to approach the representations about the verbal ways in which the Chanés of Northwest Argentina express emotions. The expression of the emotion is mainly associated with pɨa, an organ that acts as a locus par excellence of the expression of the states of mind of a person. Bearing this in mind, the focus here will be on the description the contexts and experiences of everyday Chané life in which emotions and its significance are culturally manifested. This work aims to contribute to the study of the social construction of the body and the conception of the person from the perspective of the verbal emotion.
Minería y metalurgia prehispánica en el Noroeste Argentino
Authors: Angiorama Carlos , Becerra María Florencia
Published: November 2021

This paper synthetizes what we know so far about pre-Columbian mining and metallurgical activities, during pre-Inka and Inka times, in the present-day territory of Jujuy province (Argentina). To do so, we analyze the extractive and productive contexts that we and other scholars have studied in the three eco-regions of the province, in order to identify the direct and indirect evidences of mining, smelting and manufacture of metal objects. Based on the results, we state that despite the availability of metalliferous minerals in the province, the pre-Columbian mining activities have not reached a large scale, neither in extent nor in intensity, and they would have been carried out mainly in the Puna and in an area of the Sierras subandinas. There is evidence of metallurgical production in the Puna as well as in the Cordillera Oriental, especially in the Quebrada de Humahuaca, which dates from pre-inka Late period (second millennium AD) and Inka times and shows the use of gold, silver, copper, tin and their alloys, and the consumption of metallic artefacts in diverse contexts. The Inka conquest would have generated certain modifications in the organization and access of raw materials, but not in the production techniques.
Sin patrones
Authors: Venegas Valdebenito Hernan , Videla Bravo Enzo Andrés
Published: November 2021

This article reconstructs the activity of a mining cooperative in its concrete experience in the critical juncture of 1969-1973 in Chile. Cooperative work was promoted by the State as a proposal for social transformation, but at the same time as a palliative to the high unemployment rates in the province of Atacama. He encouraged the organization of mining cooperatives, put in tension the margins of freedom displayed by the traditional pirquineros, on the one hand, and the demand for a systematic, continuous and organized effort, on the other. Difficult problem to assess among workers who exhibited a propensity to an itinerant life and occasional employer subordination.