bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Direct-Acting Antiviral Therapy on the Risk of Recurrence after Curative Resection in Patients with Hepatitis-C-Virus-Related Early Stage Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Chen Yu-Syuan , Huang Kuo-Hsuan , Wang Pei-Ming , Chuang Ching-Hui , Yong Chee-Chien , Liu Yueh-Wei , Huang Pao-Yuan , Yao Chih-Chien , Lin Yen-Po , Tsai Ming-Chao
Published: February 2022

Background and Objectives: The impact of direct-acting antiviral (DAA)-based regimens on the recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after successful curative hepatectomy is controversial. Aims: This study aimed to assess the association between DAAs treatment and recurrence risk in HCC after resection. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively assessed 152 cases of early stage (BCLC stage 0/A) hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related HCC (HCV-HCC) that underwent resection with curative intent between 2001 and 2019 at Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital; 48 cases achieved a sustained virological response (SVR) by DAA, and 104 cases were not treated with any antiviral therapy (non-treatment group). Recurrence-free survival (RFS) following curative resection was analyzed by using the log-rank test and Kaplan–Meier method. A Cox proportional hazards model was used to analyze the factors that impacted RFS and OS. Results: Five patients (10.4%) experienced HCC recurrence after DAA therapy. The cumulative HCC recurrence rate was significantly lower in the DAA group than the non-treatment group (p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis revealed a significant difference in RFS between the non-treatment group and DAA group (p = 0.001; hazard ratio (HR), 4.978; 95% CI, 1.976–12.542); liver cirrhosis (p = 0.005; HR, 2.062; 95% CI, 1.247–3.410), microvascular invasion (p = 0.001; HR, 2.331; 95% CI, 1.408–3.860) and AFP > 15 ng/mL (p = 0.022; HR, 1.799; 95% CI, 1.089–2.970) were also independent factors for HCC recurrence. ALBI stage II/III (p = 0.005; HR, 3.249; 95% CI, 1.418–7.443) and microvascular invasion (p < 0.001; HR, 4.037 95% CI, 2.071–7.869) were independent factors for OS; no significant difference in OS was observed between the DAA and no DAA treatment groups. Conclusions: DAA treatment could reduce the risk of recurrence after curative treatment for early stage HCC.
The “Invisible Enemy” SARS-CoV-2: Viral Spread and Drug Treatment
Authors: Tanase Alina , Manea Aniko , Scurtu Alexandra Denisa , Bratu Lavinia Melania , Chioran Doina , Dolghi Alina , Alexoi Iren , AAbed Hazzaa , Lazureanu Voichita , Dehelean Cristina Adriana
Published: February 2022

Nowadays, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection has become the main subject of the scientific medical world and all World Organizations, causing millions of deaths worldwide. In this review, we have highlighted the context of the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, how the virus spreads, the symptoms and complications that may occur, and, especially, the drug treatment of viral infection, with emphasis on monoclonal antibodies. While well-known strains such as Alpha, Beta, Gamma, and, especially, Delta have shown an accelerated transmission among the population, the new Omicron variant (discovered on 24 November 2021) indicates more significant infectiousness and the poor efficacy of monoclonal antibody therapy due to mutations on the spike protein receptor-binding domain. With these discoveries, the experiments began, the first being in silico and in vitro, but these are not enough, and in vivo experiments are needed to see exactly the cause of neutralization of the action of these drugs. Following the documentation of the latest medical and scientific research, it has been concluded that there are many chemical molecules that have the potential to treat SARS-CoV-2 infection, but more detailed clinical trials are needed for their use in therapy. In addition, it is important to consider the structure of the viral strain in the administration of treatment.
The Additional Role of the 3-Vessels and Trachea View in Screening for Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Gireadă Roxana , Socolov Demetra , Mihălceanu Elena , Matasariu Roxana , Ursache Alexandra , Akad Mona , Bujor Iuliana , Scripcariu Ioana , Popa Radu Florin , Socolov Răzvan
Published: February 2022

Background and Objectives: Although frequent and associated with high mortality and morbidity rate, congenital heart disease (CHD) has a suboptimal prenatal detection rate, with significant variation according to the scanning protocol. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of the 3-vessels and trachea view (3VT) in detecting CHD, with or without the use of Color Doppler, with an emphasis on major CHD. Materials and Methods: We performed a retrospective study on 1596 unselected pregnant patients presenting at 11–37 weeks of gestation for a routine anomaly scan. We selected all CHD cases, and we analyzed the performance of the 4-chamber (4C) and 3VT view in detecting CHD. Results: A total of 46 fetuses with CHD were identified, yielding a 2.86% overall incidence, and 0.87% for major CHD. Grayscale 4C detected 47.8% of all CHD, going up to 71.7% by adding grayscale 3VT, with no major CHD remaining undetected by combining grayscale 4C and 3VT. Conclusions: Grayscale 4C and 3VT views are effective in detecting major CHD, thus proving their utility even in a low resource setting.
Assessing Fluid Intolerance with Doppler Ultrasonography: A Physiological Framework
Authors: Kenny Jon-Emile S.
Published: February 2022

Ultrasonography is becoming the favored hemodynamic monitoring utensil of emergentologists, anesthesiologists and intensivists. While the roles of ultrasound grow and evolve, many clinical applications of ultrasound stem from qualitative, image-based protocols, especially for diagnosing and managing circulatory failure. Often, these algorithms imply or suggest treatment. For example, intravenous fluids are opted for or against based upon ultrasonographic signs of preload and estimation of the left ventricular ejection fraction. Though appealing, image-based algorithms skirt some foundational tenets of cardiac physiology; namely, (1) the relationship between cardiac filling and stroke volume varies considerably in the critically ill, (2) the correlation between cardiac filling and total vascular volume is poor and (3) the ejection fraction is not purely an appraisal of cardiac function but rather a measure of coupling between the ventricle and the arterial load. Therefore, management decisions could be enhanced by quantitative approaches, enabled by Doppler ultrasonography. Both fluid ‘responsiveness’ and ‘tolerance’ are evaluated by Doppler ultrasound, but the physiological relationship between these constructs is nebulous. Accordingly, it is argued that the link between them is founded upon the Frank–Starling–Sarnoff relationship and that this framework helps direct future ultrasound protocols, explains seemingly discordant findings and steers new routes of enquiry.
Component Analysis and Anti-Colorectal Cancer Mechanism via AKT/mTOR Signalling Pathway of Sanghuangporus vaninii Extracts
Authors: Guo Shanshan , Duan Wenwen , Wang Yaxin , Chen Liangmian , Yang Chenchen , Gu Xuezhu , Xue Qinghai , Li Raorao , Zhang Zhijie
Published: February 2022

Sanghuangporus vaninii (Ljub.) L.W. Zhou & Y.C. Dai (SV) is a major cultivar of Sanghuang, which is well known as an excellent anti-tumour drug and reaches the mainstream market in China. Water, 60% ethanol and 95% ethanol were used to extract the drug, and three kinds of polar extracts were obtained separately. Compared with water extracts and 95% ethanol extracts, the 60% ethanol extract had the highest flavonoid content, and its polysaccharide content was greater than that in the 95% ethanol extract and lower than that in the water extract. Its essential components were phenolics whose majority were phenolic acids, flavonoids and phenylpropanoids. This extract has better inhibition effects on the proliferation of SW480 human colon cancer cells, inducing cell apoptosis and blocking G2/M period cells. It can significantly inhibit gene expression and reduce the activation of the AKT/mTOR signalling pathway. The anti-cancer activity of the 60% ethanol extract is satisfactory and may be a result of the combined effects of polysaccharides and flavonoids. The data suggest that the 60% ethanol extract can be used as an adjuvant for chemotherapy and as a potential anti-cancer agent with broad development prospects.
EGFR and COX-2 Dual Inhibitor: The Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of Novel Chalcones
Authors: Musa Arafa , Mostafa Ehab M. , Bukhari Syed Nasir Abbas , Alotaibi Nasser Hadal , El-Ghorab Ahmed H. , Farouk Amr , Nayl AbdElAziz A. , Ghoneim Mohammed M. , Abdelgawad Mohamed A.
Published: February 2022

For most researchers, discovering new anticancer drugs to avoid the adverse effects of current ones, to improve therapeutic benefits and to reduce resistance is essential. Because the COX-2 enzyme plays an important role in various types of cancer leading to malignancy enhancement, inhibition of apoptosis, and tumor-cell metastasis, an indispensable objective is to design new scaffolds or drugs that possess combined action or dual effect, such as kinase and COX-2 inhibition. The start compounds A1 to A6 were prepared through the diazo coupling of 3-aminoacetophenone with a corresponding phenol and then condensed with two new chalcone series, C7–18. The newly synthesized compounds were assessed against both COX-2 and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) for their inhibitory effect. All novel compounds were screened for cytotoxicity against five cancer cell lines. Compounds C9 and G10 exhibited potent EGFR inhibition with IC50 values of 0.8 and 1.1 µM, respectively. Additionally, they also displayed great COX-2 inhibition with IC50 values of 1.27 and 1.88 µM, respectively. Furthermore, the target compounds were assessed for their cytotoxicity against pancreatic ductal cancer (Panc-1), lung cancer (H-460), human colon cancer (HT-29), human malignant melanoma (A375) and pancreatic cancer (PaCa-2) cell lines. Interestingly, compounds C10 and G12 exhibited the strongest cytotoxic effect against PaCa-2 with average IC50 values of 0.9 and 0.8 µM, respectively. To understand the possible binding modes of the compounds under investigation with the receptor cites of EGFR and COX-2, a virtual docking study was conducted.
Novel and Potential Small Molecule Scaffolds as DYRK1A Inhibitors by Integrated Molecular Docking-Based Virtual Screening and Dynamics Simulation Study
Authors: Shahroz Mir Mohammad , Sharma Hemant Kumar , Altamimi Abdulmalik S. A. , Alamri Mubarak A. , Ali Abuzer , Ali Amena , Alqahtani Safar , Altharawi Ali , Alabbas Alhumaidi B. , Alossaimi Manal A. , Riadi Yassine , Firoz Ahmad , Afzal Obaid
Published: February 2022

The dual-specificity tyrosine phosphorylation-regulated kinase 1A (DYRK1A) is a novel, promising and emerging biological target for therapeutic intervention in neurodegenerative diseases, especially in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The molMall database, comprising rare, diverse and unique compounds, was explored for molecular docking-based virtual screening against the DYRK1A protein, in order to find out potential inhibitors. Ligands exhibiting hydrogen bond interactions with key amino acid residues such as Ile165, Lys188 (catalytic), Glu239 (gk+1), Leu241 (gk+3), Ser242, Asn244, and Asp307, of the target protein, were considered potential ligands. Hydrogen bond interactions with Leu241 (gk+3) were considered key determinants for the selection. High scoring structures were also docked by Glide XP docking in the active sites of twelve DYRK1A related protein kinases, viz. DYRK1B, DYRK2, CDK5/p25, CK1, CLK1, CLK3, GSK3β, MAPK2, MAPK10, PIM1, PKA, and PKCα, in order to find selective DYRK1A inhibitors. MM/GBSA binding free energies of selected ligand–protein complexes were also calculated in order to remove false positive hits. Physicochemical and pharmacokinetic properties of the selected six hit ligands were also computed and related with the proposed limits for orally active CNS drugs. The computational toxicity webserver ProTox-II was used to predict the toxicity profile of selected six hits (molmall IDs 9539, 11352, 15938, 19037, 21830 and 21878). The selected six docked ligand–protein systems were exposed to 100 ns molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to validate their mechanism of interactions and stability in the ATP pocket of human DYRK1A kinase. All six ligands were found to be stable in the ATP binding pocket of DYRK1A kinase.
Resolution of a Configurationally Stable Hetero[4]helicene
Authors: Lupi Michela , Onori Martina , Menichetti Stefano , Abbate Sergio , Longhi Giovanna , Viglianisi Caterina
Published: February 2022

We have developed an efficient chemical resolution of racemic hydroxy substituted dithia-aza[4]helicenes (DTA[4]H) 1(OH) using enantiopure acids as resolving agents. The better diastereomeric separation was achieved on esters prepared with (1S)-(−)-camphanic acid. Subsequent simple manipulations produced highly optically pure (≥ 99% enantiomeric excess) (P) and (M)-1(OH) in good yields. The role of the position where the chiral auxiliary is inserted (cape- vs. bay-zone) and the structure of the enantiopure acid used on successful resolution are discussed.
Facial Synthesis and Bioevaluation of Well-Defined OEGylated Betulinic Acid-Cyclodextrin Conjugates for Inhibition of Influenza Infection
Authors: Chen Yingying , Wang Xinchen , Ma Xinyuan , Liang Shuobin , Gao Qianqian , Tretyakova Elena V. , Zhang Yongmin , Zhou Demin , Xiao Sulong
Published: February 2022

Betulinic acid (BA) and its derivatives exhibit a variety of biological activities, especially their anti-HIV-1 activity, but generally have only modest inhibitory potency against influenza virus. The entry of influenza virus into host cells can be competitively inhibited by multivalent derivatives targeting hemagglutinin. In this study, a series of hexa-, hepta- and octavalent BA derivatives based on α-, β- and γ-cyclodextrin scaffolds, respectively, with varying lengths of flexible oligo(ethylene glycol) linkers was designed and synthesized using a microwave-assisted copper-catalyzed 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reaction. The generated BA-cyclodextrin conjugates were tested for their in vitro activity against influenza A/WSN/33 (H1N1) virus and cytotoxicity. Among the tested compounds, 58, 80 and 82 showed slight cytotoxicity to Madin-Darby canine kidney cells with viabilities ranging from 64 to 68% at a high concentration of 100 μM. Four conjugates 51 and 69–71 showed significant inhibitory effects on influenza infection with half maximal inhibitory concentration values of 5.20, 9.82, 7.48 and 7.59 μM, respectively. The structure-activity relationships of multivalent BA-cyclodextrin conjugates were discussed, highlighting that multivalent BA derivatives may be potential antiviral agents against influenza infection.
Effect of Cationic Lipid Nanoparticle Loaded siRNA with Stearylamine against Chikungunya Virus
Authors: Jeengar Manish Kumar , Kurakula Mallesh , Patil Poonam , More Ashwini , Sistla Ramakrishna , Parashar Deepti
Published: February 2022

Chikungunya is an infectious disease caused by mosquito-transmitted chikungunya virus (CHIKV). It was reported that NS1 and E2 siRNAs administration demonstrated CHIKV inhibition in in vitro as well as in vivo systems. Cationic lipids are promising for designing safe non-viral vectors and are beneficial in treating chikungunya. In this study, nanodelivery systems (hybrid polymeric/solid lipid nanoparticles) using cationic lipids (stearylamine, C9 lipid, and dioctadecylamine) and polymers (branched PEI-g-PEG -PEG) were prepared, characterized, and complexed with siRNA. The four developed delivery systems (F1, F2, F3, and F4) were assessed for stability and potential toxicities against CHIKV. In comparison to the other nanodelivery systems, F4 containing stearylamine (Octadecylamine; ODA), with an induced optimum cationic charge of 45.7 mV in the range of 152.1 nm, allowed maximum siRNA complexation, better stability, and higher transfection, with strong inhibition against the E2 and NS1 genes of CHIKV. The study concludes that cationic lipid-like ODA with ease of synthesis and characterization showed maximum complexation by structural condensation of siRNA owing to high transfection alone. Synergistic inhibition of CHIKV along with siRNA was demonstrated in both in vitro and in vivo models. Therefore, ODA-based cationic lipid nanoparticles can be explored as safe, potent, and efficient nonviral vectors overcoming siRNA in vivo complexities against chikungunya.
A Review on the Main Phytoconstituents, Traditional Uses, Inventions, and Patent Literature of Gum Arabic Emphasizing Acacia seyal
Authors: Ashour Mohamed A. , Fatima Waseem , Imran Mohd. , Ghoneim Mohammed M. , Alshehri Sultan , Shakeel Faiyaz
Published: February 2022

Acacia seyal is an important source of gum Arabic. The availability, traditional, medicinal, pharmaceutical, nutritional, and cosmetic applications of gum acacia have pronounced its high economic value and attracted global attention. In addition to summarizing the inventions/patents applications related to gum A. seyal, the present review highlights recent updates regarding its phytoconstituents. Traditional, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and medicinal uses with the possible mechanism of actions have been also reviewed. The patent search revealed the identification of 30 patents/patent applications of A. seyal. The first patent related to A. seyal was published in 1892, which was related to its use in the prophylaxis/treatment of kidney and bladder affections. The use of A. seyal to treat cancer and osteoporosis has also been patented. Some inventions provided compositions and formulations containing A. seyal or its ingredients for pharmaceutical and medical applications. The inventions related to agricultural applications, food industry, cosmetics, quality control of gum Arabic, and isolation of some chemical constituents (L-rhamnose and arabinose) from A. seyal have also been summarized. The identification of only 30 patents/patent applications from 1892 to 15 November 2021 indicates a steadily growing interest and encourages developing more inventions related to A. seyal. The authors recommend exploring these opportunities for the benefit of society.
A Light-Driven Integrated Bio-Capacitor with Single Nano-Channel Modulation
Authors: Lin Jie , Lv Yu-Jia , Han Lei , Sun Kuan , Xiang Yan , Xing Xiao-Xing , Li Yu-Tao
Published: February 2022

Bioelectronics, an emerging discipline formed by the biology and electronic information disciplines, has maintained a state of rapid development since its birth. Amongst the various functional bioelectronics materials, bacteriorhodopsin (bR), with its directional proton pump function and favorable structural stability properties, has drawn wide attention. The main contents of the paper are as follows: Inspired by the capacitive properties of natural protoplast cell membranes, a new bio-capacitor based on bR and artificial nanochannels was constructed. As a point of innovation, microfluidic chips were integrated into our device as an ion transport channel, which made the bio-capacitor more stable. Meanwhile, a single nanopore structure was integrated to improve the accuracy of the device structure. Experiments observed that the size of the nanopore affected the ion transmission rate. Consequently, by making the single nanopore’s size change, the photocurrent duration time (PDT) of bR was effectively regulated. By using this specific phenomenon, the original transient photocurrent was successfully transformed into a square-like wave.
Nanoimprinting of Biomimetic Nanostructures
Authors: Muehlberger Michael
Published: February 2022

Biomimetic micro- and nano- structures have attracted considerable interest over the last decades for various applications ranging from optics to life sciences. The complex nature of the structures, however, presents significant challenges for fabrication and their application in real-life settings. Nanoimprint lithography could provide an interesting opportunity in this respect. This article seeks to provide an overview of what has already been achieved using nanoscale replication technologies in the field of biomimetics and will aim to highlight opportunities and challenges for nanoimprinting in this respect in order to inspire new research.
Effectiveness of Double-Hit Model (Post-Weaning Social Isolation and NMDA Receptor Antagonist) in the Development of Schizophrenic like Symptoms on Rodents: A Protocol for a Systematic Review
Authors: Shangase Khanyiso Bright , Magwai Thabo , Oginga Fredrick Otieno , Xulu Khethelo Richman , Mpofana Thabisile
Published: February 2022

Background: Schizophrenia is a heterogeneous neuropsychiatric disorder, categorized by positive, negative, and cognitive symptoms. In trying to improve the diagnosis and treatment of schizophrenia, researchers have turned to “dual hit” models of schizophrenia that are able to reproduce all symptoms of the disorder. The main objective of this protocol is to present a transparent process on how we plan to review the existing international literature on the effectiveness of “dual hit” models used to induce schizophrenia on rodents. Methods: Literature search strategies will be developed using medical search headings (MeSH). The MEDLINE (PubMed), EMBASE, and Google Scholar databases will be used to search for electronically published studies. We will search for studies involving inducing schizophrenic symptoms using “dual hit” rodent models (post-weaning social isolation and NMDA receptor antagonist). Studies will be screened by titles, abstracts, keywords, and synonyms followed by identifying the full-text articles. All studies that will pass quality assessment will be included. Data will be extracted by two authors independently and in duplicate from each eligible study to ensure that there is consistency between reviews. If the design and comparator are sufficiently homogenous for all studies, a meta-analysis will be conducted using a random-effect model. Discussion: The results of this review will contribute to the development of new “dual hit” models that will be able to characterize schizophrenia symptoms better. It will also shed light to researchers on new developments that need to be made in improving animal models of schizophrenia.
Bound Polyphenols from Red Quinoa Prevailed over Free Polyphenols in Reducing Postprandial Blood Glucose Rises by Inhibiting α-Glucosidase Activity and Starch Digestion
Authors: Zhang Yu , Bai Bing , Yan Yu , Liang Juan , Guan Xiao
Published: February 2022

Inhibiting α-glucosidase activity is important in controlling postprandial hyperglycemia and, thus, helping to manage type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In the present study, free polyphenols (FPE) and bound polyphenols (BPE) were extracted from red quinoa and their inhibitory effects on α-glucosidase and postprandial glucose, as well as related mechanisms, were investigated. HPLC-MS analysis showed that the components of FPE and BPE were different. FPE was mainly composed of hydroxybenzoic acid and its derivatives, while BPE was mainly composed of ferulic acid and its derivatives. BPE exhibited stronger DPPH and ABTS antioxidant activities, and had a lower IC50 (10.295 mg/mL) value in inhibiting α-glucosidase activity. The inhibition kinetic mode analysis revealed that FPE and BPE inhibited α-glucosidase in a non-competitive mode and an uncompetitive mode, respectively. Furthermore, compared to FPE, BPE delayed starch digestion more effectively. BPE at 50 mg/kg reduced postprandial glucose increases comparably to acarbose at 20 mg/kg in ICR mice. These results could provide perspectives on the potential of BPE from red quinoa, as a functional food, to inhibit α-glucosidase activity, delay postprandial glucose increases and manage T2DM.
Volume Bragg Grating Locked Alexandrite Laser
Authors: Tawy Goronwy , Minassian Ara , Damzen Michael J.
Published: February 2022

We report the first ever demonstration of a wavelength-locked Alexandrite laser using a volume Bragg grating (VBG) as a wavelength-selective mirror. Output power of 3.3 W with a diffraction limited beam quality of M2=1.1 was obtained at a lasing wavelength of 762.2 nm and a linewidth (FWHM) of 2.5 GHz.
Application of Nitrogen Piezoelectric Direct Discharge for Increase in Surface Free Energy of Polymers
Authors: Korzec Dariusz , Hoppenthaler Florian , Andres Thomas , Guentner Sophia , Lerach Simona
Published: February 2022

The subject of this study is the application of the piezoelectric direct discharge (PDD) operated with nitrogen to control the surface free energy (SFE) of polymers. The activation area, defined as the area of the zone reaching the SFE of 58 mN/m for high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), is characterized. For HDPE, the activation area was characterized as a function of the distance from 1 to 16 mm, the nitrogen flow from 5 to 20 SLM, and the treatment time from 1 to 32 s. For larger distances, where SFE does not exceed 58 mN/m, the water contact angle is evaluated. The activation area for nitrogen PDD is typically a factor of 3 higher than for air with all other conditions the same. A maximum static activation area of 15 cm2 is reached. The plasma treatment of lens panels made of PMMA is presented as application example.
What Tourists Want, a Sustainable Paradise
Authors: Linnes Cathrine , Agrusa Jerome , Ronzoni Giulio , Lema Joseph
Published: February 2022

The increasing complexity of tourism and sustainability offers opportunities and challenges among diverse stakeholder perspectives. The need for sustainable and nature-based approaches exists throughout the growing body of literature from among a number of dimensions and measures. One of the overarching goals of the paper is to examine whether tourists will choose a destination or hotel that is actively working to improve the environment while examining how Hawaii’s tourism is nature-based as well as other measures of sustainability while enjoying a slice of paradise in the Hawaiian Islands. This study explores tourism sustainability concerns in Hawaii, such as the influence of the tourist sector on the environment and will address if Hawaii should be recognized as a sustainable tourism destination. A survey instrument was developed where 454 respondents participated. According to the findings of this research, tourists visiting Hawaii support environmentally sustainable tourism practices leading towards a more sustainable tourist destination.
The Tourist Attractiveness of Tokyo in the Opinion of Surveyed Tourists
Authors: Roman Michał , Bury Katarzyna
Published: February 2022

This article covers the topic of the tourist attractiveness of Tokyo in the opinion of 369 tourists from Poland. A definition of tourist attractiveness and its factors is provided. Basic information on Tokyo, including accommodation, eating facilities, and tourist traffic in the city is offered. The results of the research performed with the use of a survey questionnaire are demonstrated. The research shows that tourists’ most appreciated elements of Tokyo’s tourist attractiveness are transport accessibility, eating facilities, and cultural assets. The article’s hypotheses, that the most attractive seasons in Tokyo, tourism-wise, are spring and autumn, and that the most attractive monument in Tokyo is the oldest Buddhist temple, Sensō-ji, located in the Taitō district, were confirmed to be positive. The third hypothesis was also positively verified. The research shows that younger people positively assessed Tokyo as an attractive and friendly city more than older people.
High Phenotypic Variation between an In Vitro-Passaged Fowl Adenovirus Serotype 1 (FAdV-1) and Its Virulent Progenitor Strain despite Almost Complete Sequence Identity of the Whole Genomes
Authors: Grafl Beatrice , Schachner Anna , Hess Michael
Published: February 2022

Adenoviral gizzard erosion is an emerging disease with negative impact on health and production of chickens. In this study, we compared in vitro and in vivo characteristics of a fowl adenovirus serotype 1 (FAdV-1), attenuated by 53 consecutive passages in primary chicken embryo liver (CEL) cell cultures (11/7127-AT), with the virulent strain (11/7127-VT). Whole genome analysis revealed near-complete sequence identity between the strains. However, a length polymorphism in a non-coding adenine repeat sequence (11/7127-AT: 11 instead of 9) immediately downstream of the hexon open reading frame was revealed. One-step growth kinetics showed delayed multiplication of 11/7127-AT together with significantly lower titers in cell culture (up to 4 log10 difference), indicating reduced replication efficiency in vitro. In vivo pathogenicity and immunogenicity were determined in day-old specific pathogen-free layer chicks inoculated orally with the respective viruses. In contrast to birds infected with 11/7127-VT, birds infected with 11/7127-AT did not exhibit body weight loss or severe pathological lesions in the gizzard. Virus detection rates, viral load in organs and virus excretion were significantly lower in birds inoculated with 11/7127-AT. Throughout the experimental period, these birds did not develop measurable neutralizing antibodies, prevalent in birds in response to 11/7127-VT infection. Differences in pathogenicity between the virulent FAdV-1 and the attenuated strain could not be correlated to prominently discriminate genomic features. We conclude that differential in vitro growth profiles indicate that attenuation is linked to modulation of viral replication during interaction of the virus with the host cells. Thus, hosts would be unable to prevent the rapid replication of virulent FAdV leading to severe tissue damage, a phenomenon broadly applicable to further FAdV serotypes, considering the substantial intra-serotype virulence differences of FAdVs and the variation of diseases.
The Impact of Battery-Electric Vehicles on Energy Consumption: A Macroeconomic Evidence from 29 European Countries
Authors: Koengkan Matheus , Fuinhas José Alberto , Belucio Matheus , Alavijeh Nooshin Karimi , Salehnia Nasrin , Machado Daniel , Silva Vinícius , Dehdar Fatemeh
Published: February 2022

The impact of battery electric vehicles (BEV) on energy consumption was researched modeling energy consumption against BEVs, Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and e-commerce, using annual data from 2010 to 2020, for twenty-nine European countries, with quantile regression and OLS with fixed effects econometric techniques. It was found that GDP and e-commerce impact energy consumption positively, and BEVs reduce energy consumption. These findings support that efficiency gains could not reduce energy consumption, and e-commerce, via extra packaging, further usage of computer processors, and cryptocurrencies to purchase products are hampering the environment. BEVs were revealed to be more energy-efficient than conventional cars. Thus, energy conservation policies to combat global warming and climate change arise. First, policies should offer an alternative packaging system to lower the negative environmental impacts of additional packaging for online purchases, stimulate smaller packages, free up additional space on the transport, enhance the delivery system efficiency, and promote alternative delivery systems. Second, offering subsidies for purchasing BEVs or tax rebates will increase the adoption rate of electric vehicles and combine this policy with the CO2 emissions’ regulations to stimulate the demand for BEVs. Finally, affordable charging points should be provided and customer awareness of the benefits of BEVs should be improved.
The use of a multistage gearbox in an electric drive on quadcopters
Authors:   Bauman Moscow State Technical University, Moscow, Nikolaev A.D. , Petrunicheva A.S. ,   Bauman Moscow State Technical University, Moscow
Published: February 2022

The purpose of the work is to develop a multistage gearbox for quadcopters with an additional mass of approximately 700 g, for example: a topographic camera, a small parcel, or, as in the case under consideration, anti-radiation protection and a sensor for measuring radiation levels. We will develop such an electric drive that will ensure the preservation of maximum speed and maximum speeds of climb and descent, as well as select a new battery to preserve such characteristics as maximum range and altitude, maximum flight time and maximum hover time. The article discusses the main stages of selecting the components of an electric drive, taking into account their mass in the required thrust, to ensure the functioning of an average quadcopter upgraded for the study of a radiation-contaminated area. An example of solving the problem of insufficient traction of electric drives is considered. Comparing the use of a multistage drive with the traditional use of an engine without a gearbox on quadcopters, it is worth noting that a multistage drive is more technologically expensive, as well as has a large mass, but at the same time it provides higher useful thrust than most engines used on modern quadcopters. Also, the advantage of the developed drive is the protection of the motor board from radiation by the housing and gearbox, which increases the service life of the quadcopter in the conditions under consideration.
El diálogo entre Filatetes y Demófeles
Authors: Escobar Gómez Julián Andrés
Published: February 2022

La metafísica popular es uno de los temas que aborda Arthur Schopenhauer en sus escritos menores. Aquél concepto representa lo que se denomina como “religión”, aunque en Schopenhauer va a tomar un matiz de performatividad más elevado e instaura un análisis que va más allá de la manifestación del dogma religioso. Para este autor, la religión, al igual que la filosofía, se presta para satisfacer la necesidad metafísica de los hombres. Luego de evidenciar la supremacía de la filosofía frente a la religión, muestra las falencias de esta última. En la obra de Schopenhauer, la religión está bien y cumple un objetivo primordial para los hombres y en este sentido deviene metafísica popular, sin embargo, no puede desconocerse lo que ha hecho a través de la historia. Vamos a evidenciar en los comentarios que hace esta autor en el diálogo entre Filatetes y Demófeles en el segundo tomo de los Parerga y Paralipómena, algunas posturas filosóficas que están en favor de la religiosidad, aunque este no fue el objetivo centrar de Schopenhauer.
Una cuestión por aclarar: mujeres, escritura, academia
Authors: Suárez Ortiz Giovana
Published: February 2022

El año pasado, al terminar de leer Caliban y la bruja. Mujeres, cuerpo y acumulación originaria de Silvia Federici, lloré por todas las feminidades que han sido y que seguimos siendo quemadas en las hogueras de la historia, en las frases cotidianas y en las violencias de género.  Esa noche no lograba conciliar el sueño, sentía un calor intenso en las piernas. No sabía qué me estaba pasando. A la mañana siguiente busqué entre mi archivo un texto de Suely Rolnik que habla acerca de los saberes-del-cuerpo. Ella me ayudó a entender las razones de mi desvelo, mi cuerpa me estaba hablando, me estaba recordando que nuestras cuerpas se definen por la capacidad de afectar y ser afectados y que, al definirnos como cuerpas mujeriles, nos han subordinado.
Cuantificación de sílice presente en el follaje de guadua angustifolia Del departamento del Quindío
Authors: Herrera-Giraldo Carolina , Gómez-Barrera Milton , Saavedra-Hernández Maricela , Fonthal-Rivera Gerardo , Gonzalez-Ceballos Victoria Eugenia , Ariza-Calderón Hernando
Published: February 2022

Se presenta un estudio sobre la cuantificación del Sílice en el follaje de Guadua angustifolia. Por técnicas gravimétricas se encontró que el porcentaje de Sílice en “El Sendero Cedro Rosado” fue de 2.59% en base seca, en ceniza, mientras que la muestra procedente de la Reserva Natural “La Montaña del Ocaso” tiene una concentración de 1.70%. Mediante el SEM y por microscopía de fluorescencia avanzada, se obtuvo que el Sílice se deposita en los haces vasculares de la hoja y en menor proporción entre las células largas. Dado que la densidad de las células silíceas disminuye desde el centro de la hoja hacia los bordes y hacia el ápice, concluimos que la presencia del Sílice en la parte foliar de la G. angustifolia tiene funciones de estabilidad mecánica de los tejidos
Los abuelos favoritos desde la percepción de preadolescentes de la ciudad de Armenia
Authors: Ruiz-Soto María Claudia , Pineda-Chacón Olga Mercedes , Valencia-Restrepo Sandra Milena
Published: February 2022

Esta investigación forma parte de los estudios sobre Abuelidad, que adelanta el Grupo de Investigación sobre Desarrollo de la Universidad del Quindío. Se describe, desde la percepción de preadolescentes de la ciudad de Armenia, la figura del abuelo favorito a partir de características del abuelo (edad, sexo, familia de origen, ocupación, ubicación geográfica y frecuencia de contacto) y como ésta varía en función de las características del nieto.

La muestra estuvo conformada por 600 preadolescentes de distintas instituciones educativas a los cuales se les aplicó un instrumento sobre la relación abuelo-nieto. Los datos fueron procesados en Stadistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS), se utilizó estadística descriptiva, en la identificación de la figura del abuelo favorito y para establecer diferencias significativas en función las características del nieto, el Chi-cuadrado y la prueba U de Mann Whitney.

Los resultados indican que los nietos eligen como abuelo favorito en mayor porcentaje a abuelas (81.4%), de línea materna (62.1%), entre 60 y 70 años (43.8%), jubilados o amas de casa (72.8%), viven en la misma ciudad que sus nietos (32.7%), les ven casi todos los días (47.4%). Se encontró que las características de la figura del abuelo presenta variaciones en función de características del preadolescente. Así, la edad del abuelo favorito varía de acuerdo con la estructura familiar y el orden de nacimiento del nieto, cuando la madre trabaja, los nietos prefieren en mayor proporción a las abuelas maternas; la distancia geográfica y la frecuencia de contacto entre abuelos favoritos y nietos varían en función de la estructura familiar, el número de hermanos y el orden de nacimiento del preadolescente
Caracterización del discurso Pedagógico en el aula de clase de la Universidad del Quíndío
Authors: Morales-Osorio Carlos Alveiro , Mora-Álvarez Numael
Published: February 2022

Por medio de procedimientos de la investigación etnográfica, el presente trabajo categoriza el discurso pedagógico en el aula de clase de la Universidad del Quindío. De esta categorización se concluye, entre otros aspectos, que el discurso y la práctica pedagógica en esta Universidad son primordialmente profesionalizantes y que las relaciones entre ambos aspectos son asimétricos.
Espectros de respuesta elásticos de desplazamiento para la ciudad de Armenia, apropiados para el diseño sísmico basado directamente en desplazamientos (dbdd)
Authors: Aldana-Carrillo Juan Carlos , Rodríguez-Mejia Andrés , Monsalve-Jaramillo Hugo
Published: February 2022

El diseño sísmico de estructuras ha ido evolucionando y tomando nuevos caminos, los cuales han conllevado a cambios radicales en los enfoques tradicionales de diseño. Es así, como las nuevas tendencias apuntan hacia el control de las deformaciones que experimentan las estructuras ante las cargas sísmicas, ya que es en éstas donde se puede determinar el daño estructural y no estructural. El control de las deformaciones se ha estudiado y presentado en lo que se conoce hoy en día como el diseño sísmico basado en desempeño, que ha ocasionado un cambio en la filosofía tradicional de diseño basado en fuerzas y a su vez, ha exigido cambios en las cargas sísmicas representadas en los espectros de respuesta de cualquier naturaleza. Este estudio se enfoca en lo que concierne a la presentación de espectros de respuesta elásticos de desplazamientos, que puedan ser utilizados en el diseño sísmico basado directamente en desplazamientos propuesto por Kowalsky y Priestley (2000), donde el desplazamiento es el parámetro de entrada para la aplicación de esta metodología. Por ello, se utilizó una metodología compuesta de dos partes: a) la sismológica representada en el ajuste de los parámetros libres que controlan la forma de los espectros de amplitudes de Fourier teóricos, para ser utilizados en la simulación de señales sísmicas utilizando técnicas estocásticas y b) la obtención de espectros de respuesta para los depósitos de suelo de la ciudad de Armenia. Es así como se obtuvieron 24 señales sintéticas para las parejas M-d definidos en Ramos (2006), acordes con la amenaza sísmica regional, utilizando el programa de simulación estocástica de Boore (2000) SMSIM, el cual esta basado en el modelo sismológico del espectro radiado para la simulación de movimiento fuerte del terreno. Dado que las señales generadas utilizando esta metodología no tienen en cuenta efectos locales, como lo es la amplificación de las ondas sísmicas en depósitos de suelo específicos, hubo la necesidad de filtrar Estas señales sintéticas a través de los depósitos de suelo de la ciudad de Armenia (Ingeominas, 1999), para así obtener señales que permitieran obtener espectros de respuesta de desplazamiento acordes con la normatividad que rige el diseño sísmico en la ciudad de Armenia (Decreto 079, 1999). Se generaron entonces espectros de respuesta de desplazamiento para tres zonas, al igual que los espectros de diseño para cada una de ellas, definidos para 6 niveles de amortiguamiento, apropiados para ser utilizados para el diseño sísmico basado directamente en desplazamientos en la ciudad de Armenia.
Estructura y composición de la comunidad de orquídeas en dos zonas de la Reserva Natural “La Montaña del Ocaso” Quimbaya-Quindío
Authors: Santa-Jiménez Nhora Nitzanim , García-Rodríguez Tatyana , Gómez-Marín Germán Darío
Published: February 2022

Se realizó un estudio comparativo en la zona de guadual mixto y selva secundaria de la reserva natural “La Montaña del Ocaso”, evaluando la estructura y composición de la comunidad de orquídeas en relación con la vegetación asociada, dando como resultado el registro de 18 especies de orquídeas distribuidas en 14 géneros, haciendo 3 reportes nuevos para la reserva: Ponera striata, Pelexia laxa y Jacquiniella teretifolia. En el guadual mixto se registraron 10 especies de orquídeas exclusivas de la zona y en la selva secundaria 3 y  5 especies se compartieron en las dos zonas. En cuanto a la vegetación asociada a la comunidad de orquídeas, se registraron 41 especies, organizadas en 21 familias botánicas; en la selva secundaria se encontraron 20 especies y en la zona de guadual mixto 5 y comparten 16 especies en las dos zonas. Del total registrado 9 son hospederos de orquídeas, donde S. longicaulis (la especie más dominante) se distribuyó en 7 de los 9. Se hicieron análisis de componentes para observar la distribución y la preferencia de sustratos por las orquídeas, registrándose en los 13 m mayor número de especies de orquídeas que los otros rangos de altura y el sustrato más frecuentado por las orquídeas fue el liquen. Se evaluaron en el programa ANOVA los índices de Shannon, Simpson, equitabilidad y riqueza para las dos zonas, dando como resultado que la diversidad es baja tanto para la zona de selva secundaria como para el guadual mixto, se presentó dominancia en las dos zonas de acuerdo al índice de Simpson; sin embargo, se presentaron diferencias significativas entre las zonas en cuanto a estos índices, mientras que en equitabilidad y riqueza no se mostraron diferencias.
Estudio de la variabilidad de la precipitación y la temperatura en la cuenca del Río Quindío
Authors: García-Reinoso Pedro León , Monsalve-Durango Elkin Aníbal , Bustamante-Toro César Augusto
Published: February 2022

Las dificultades entorno a la calidad y cantidad del agua evidencian que hacia el 2025 el 41% de la población no contará con disponibilidad de agua para consumo y, donde la principal fuente hídrica, el Río Quindío, tiene comprometido el 80.4% de su producción. La quema de combustibles fósiles incrementa la concentración de gases de efecto invernadero en la atmósfera. Se estima que estas alteraciones cambiarán el clima regional y global, así como los parámetros relacionados con éste. El objetivo principal del estudio fue establecer una perspectiva de las tendencias de las variables climatológicas en la cuenca del Rió Quindío, seleccionando estaciones que contengan registros de temperatura y precipitación, como los elementos climáticos que mejor describen el comportamiento del clima en el componente atmosférico. Se propone identificar el comportamiento de las variables seleccionadas, por medio de la construcción de modelos ARIMA, utilizando la metodología de Box and Jenkins (1976). Las series de precipitación no muestran ningún tipo de tendencia, exhiben variaciones que podrían asumirse como estacionaria en su parte regular, el modelo de mejor ajuste fue un ARIMA(1,0,0)(2,1,0)12. Las series de temperatura mostraron fuertes tendencias de crecimiento y la presencia de periodos atípicos que están relacionados con eventos climáticos anómalos, el modelo de mejor ajuste fue un ARIMA(3,1,0)(1,1,0)12.
Hemibrycon santamartae: a new species from the Rancheria river of eastern Caribbean Colombia (Characiformes: Characidae)
Authors: Román-valencia César , Ruiz-C. Raquel I. , García-alzate Carlos A. , Taphorn Donald C.
Published: February 2022

Based on 69 specimens, using morphometric, meristic and osteological characters, we describe a new species of Hemibrycon from the Rancheria River, a Caribbean coastal drainage of eastern Colombia that drains the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. H. santamartae is distinguished from congeners by the following: presence of small hooks on the first six to eight branched analfin rays of males, with two to four hooks on only the middle sections of the rays; adipose fin pigmented but with hyaline margins; an apophysis present on the dorsal margin of the rhinosphenoids that is directed toward the anterior tip; ventral process of the angulo-articular reduced and with a straight margin. Data on the phylogenetic position of the new species are presented.
CARACTERIZACIÓN FISICOQUÍMICA DE LA MADURACIÓN DEL PLÁTANO DOMINICO-HARTÓN (Musa AAB Simmonds)
Authors: Beltrán-Giraldo Deiby , Velásquez-Téllez John Alexander , Giraldo-Giraldo Germán Antonio
Published: February 2022

El plátano Dominico Hartón (Musa AAB Simmonds) es de alto impacto económico en el departamento del Quindío, debido a la falta de estudios se realizó la caracterización fisicoquímica del plátano durante la etapa de maduración, el estudio se llevó a cabo con frutos en estado hecho, cosechando a las dieciocho semanas después de floración, se realizó la evaluación poscosecha durante catorce días, haciendo análisis por triplicado de los cambios fisicoquímicos de peso, color, índice de transpiración, índice de respiración, firmeza, pH, acidez, actividad de agua y grados brix. Los resultados  demostraron variación de peso cercanas al 25%, en color los rangos para L* fueron entre 53.53 a 63.93, para a* entre -13.19 a 7.91 y para b* entre 34.04 a 49.20, la firmeza paso de 22.78 a 3.41 N/seg., el pH de 5.8 a 4.1, la actividad de agua de 0.997 a 0.962 y los grados brix de 3.0 a 22.2, los parámetros de maduración evidenciaron comportamiento climatérico. Durante la maduración se evidencia perdida de peso, cambio de color, disminución en la firmeza, el pH y la actividad de agua, y un aumento en los grados brix.