bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mass Weddings in Jamaica and the Production of Academic Folk Knowledge
Authors: Robinson Tracy
Published: December 2020

In Jamaica in the 1940s and 1950s, prominent women and women’s organizations led a notorious campaign to promote mass weddings. The campaign targeted working-class black Jamaicans living together in long-term heterosexual relationships and was aimed at improving the status of women and children and readying working-class Jamaicans for citizenship. This essay explores mass weddings as a form of women’s activism in the mid-twentieth century, and it reflects on M. G. Smith’s trenchant critique of mass weddings in his introduction to Edith Clarke’s iconic study My Mother Who Fathered Me. Smith identifies a governor’s wife as the instigator of the campaign, not the black Jamaican middle-class nationalist feminists who were responsible, yet his account has ascended to a form of academic folk knowledge that is oft repeated and rarely probed. As a valued resource for understanding late colonialism in the Caribbean, it has caricatured Caribbean feminist interventions in nationalist projects, and it contributes to the feminization of an enduring Caribbean “coloniality.”
Recent Progress in Structure-Activity Relationship Studies on Antitumor Macrolide Aplyronine A by Using Hybridization of Actin-depolymerizing Natural Product
Authors: Ohyoshi Takayuki , Kigoshi Hideo
Published: December 2020

Aplyronine A, an antitumor marine macrolide, has a novel mode of action, inducing the protein-protein interaction between two major cytoskeletons, actin and tubulin. This review discusses recent progress in the design of artificial analogs including hybridization and structure-activity relationship studies of aplyronine A.
EARTHQUAKES AND GEOMAGNETIC DISTURBANCES
Authors: Guglielmi Anatol , Klain Boris , Kurazhkovskaya Nadezhda
Published: December 2020

The article addresses the problem of the connection of earthquakes with geomagnetic phenomena. We have carried out an experimental study using a method based, firstly, on the separation of periods of geomagnetic activity into extremely quiet and disturbed, and, secondly, on the description of seismic activity with an index called the global daily magnitude (GDM). By analyzing the NEIC earthquake catalog of the US Geological Survey over a 20-year period from 1980 to 1999, we have shown that the planetary activity of earthquakes under extremely quiet geomagnetic conditions is noticeably higher than under disturbed conditions. The detected tendency for seismic activity to increase in extremely quiet periods of geomagnetic activity has indirectly been confirmed by the analysis of 35 earthquakes with magnitude 8 and higher, which occurred on Earth from 1980 to 2019. We have found that in extremely quiet geomagnetic conditions, the probability of the occurrence of strong earthquakes is noticeably higher. The result qualitatively confirms the assumption of a change in the regime of seismic activity due to the influence of alternating magnetic fields on the ductility of rocks.
Loss of natural resistance to schistosome in T cell deficient rat
Authors: Lu Liaoxun , Hu Junjian , Chao Tianzhu , Chen Zhijun , Liu Zhuangzhuang , Luo Xinsong , Liang Yinming , He Pei , Zhang Lichen
Published: December 2020

Schistosomiasis is among the major neglected tropical diseases and effective prevention by boosting the immune system is still not available. T cells are key cellular components governing adaptive immune response to various infections. While common laboratory mice, such as C57BL/6, are highly susceptible to schistosomiasis, the SD rats are extremely resistant. However, whether adaptive immunity is necessary for such natural resistance to schistosomiasis in rats remains to be determined. Therefore, it is necessary to establish genetic model deficient in T cells and adaptive immunity on the resistant SD background, and to characterize liver pathology during schistosomiasis. In this study we compared experimental schistosomiasis in highly susceptible C57BL/6 (B6) mice and in resistant SD rats, using cercariae of Schistosoma japonicum. We observed a marked T cell expansion in the spleen of infected B6 mice, but not resistant SD rats. Interestingly, CD3e−/− B6 mice in which T cells are completely absent, the infectious burden of adult worms was significantly higher than that in WT mice, suggesting an anti-parasitic role for T cells in B6 mice during schistosome infection. In further experiments, we established Lck deficient SD rats by using CRISPR/Cas9 in which T cell development was completely abolished. Strikingly, we found that such Lck deficiency in SD rats severely impaired their natural resistance to schistosome infection, and fostered parasite growth. Together with an additional genetic model deficient in T cells, the CD3e−/− SD rats, we confirmed the absence of T cell resulted in loss of natural resistance to schistosome infection, but also mitigated liver immunopathology. Our further experiments showed that regulatory T cell differentiation in infected SD rats was significantly decreased during schistosomiasis, in contrast to significant increase of regulatory T cells in infected B6 mice. These data suggest that T cell mediated immune tolerance facilitates persistent infection in mice but not in SD rats. The demonstration of an important role for T cells in natural resistance of SD rats to schistosomiasis provides experimental evidences supporting the rationale to boost T cell responses in humans to prevent and treat schistosomiasis.
Systematic review of education and practical guidance on regression modeling for medical researchers who lack a strong statistical background: Study protocol
Authors: Bach Paul , Wallisch Christine , Klein Nadja , Hafermann Lorena , Sauerbrei Willi , Steyerberg Ewout W. , Heinze Georg , Rauch Geraldine ,   for topic group 2 of the STRATOS initiative
Published: December 2020

In the last decades, statistical methodology has developed rapidly, in particular in the field of regression modeling. Multivariable regression models are applied in almost all medical research projects. Therefore, the potential impact of statistical misconceptions within this field can be enormous Indeed, the current theoretical statistical knowledge is not always adequately transferred to the current practice in medical statistics. Some medical journals have identified this problem and published isolated statistical articles and even whole series thereof. In this systematic review, we aim to assess the current level of education on regression modeling that is provided to medical researchers via series of statistical articles published in medical journals. The present manuscript is a protocol for a systematic review that aims to assess which aspects of regression modeling are covered by statistical series published in medical journals that intend to train and guide applied medical researchers with limited statistical knowledge. Statistical paper series cannot easily be summarized and identified by common keywords in an electronic search engine like Scopus. We therefore identified series by a systematic request to statistical experts who are part or related to the STRATOS Initiative (STRengthening Analytical Thinking for Observational Studies). Within each identified article, two raters will independently check the content of the articles with respect to a predefined list of key aspects related to regression modeling. The content analysis of the topic-relevant articles will be performed using a predefined report form to assess the content as objectively as possible. Any disputes will be resolved by a third reviewer. Summary analyses will identify potential methodological gaps and misconceptions that may have an important impact on the quality of analyses in medical research. This review will thus provide a basis for future guidance papers and tutorials in the field of regression modeling which will enable medical researchers 1) to interpret publications in a correct way, 2) to perform basic statistical analyses in a correct way and 3) to identify situations when the help of a statistical expert is required.
Exercise routine change is associated with prenatal depression scores during the COVID-19 pandemic among pregnant women across the United States
Authors: Gildner Theresa E. , Laugier Elise J. , Thayer Zaneta M.
Published: December 2020

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has negatively affected physical and mental health worldwide. Pregnant women already exhibit an elevated risk for depression compared to the general public, a pattern expected to be exacerbated by the pandemic. Certain lifestyle factors, including moderate exercise, may help support mental health during pregnancy, but it is unclear how the pandemic may impact these associations across different locations. Here, we test whether: (i) reported exercise routine alterations during the pandemic are associated with depression scores; and, (ii) the likelihood of reporting pandemic-related exercise changes varies between women living in metro areas and those in non-metro areas.

Methods

This cross-sectional study used data from the COVID-19 And Reproductive Effects (CARE) study, an online survey of pregnant women in the United States. Participants were recruited April-June 2020 (n = 1,856). Linear regression analyses assessed whether reported COVID-19-related exercise change was associated with depression score as measured by the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Survey. Logistic regression analyses tested whether a participant’s Rural-Urban Continuum Code classification of “metro” was linked with higher odds of reporting exercise changes compared to a “non-metro” classification.

Results

Women who reported exercise changes during the pandemic exhibited significantly higher depression scores compared to those reporting no changes. Moreover, individuals living in metro areas of all sizes were significantly more likely to report exercise changes compared to women living in non-metro areas.

Conclusions

These results suggest that the ability to maintain an exercise routine during the pandemic may help support maternal mental health. It may therefore be prudent for providers to explicitly ask patients how the pandemic has impacted their exercise routines and consider altered exercise routines a potential risk factor for depression. An effort should also be made to recommend exercises that are tailored to individual space restrictions and physical health.
‘Meta-analysis of dry matter intake and neutral detergent fiber intake of hair sheep raised in tropical areas’
Authors: Oliveira Alessandra Pinto de , Cunha Camila Soares , Pereira Elzânia Sales , Biffani Stefano , Medeiros Ariosvaldo Nunes de , Silva Aderbal Marcos de Azevedo , Marcondes Marcos Inácio
Published: December 2020

Inadequate estimates of fiber and dry matter intake of sheep raised in tropical conditions may explain part of the inefficiency of those production systems. Therefore, we aimed to estimate dry matter intake (DMI) and neutral detergent fiber intake (NDFI) of hair sheep raised under tropical conditions. A meta-analysis of 61 independent performance experiments, comprising a total of 413 experimental units (treatment means or animals), was performed. Trials were conducted in tropical conditions, using hair sheep in growing and finishing phases and endowed with the following information: neutral detergent fiber (NDF) in diet, initial and final body weight (BW), average daily gain (ADG), DMI and NDFI of treatment means (51 studies) or individual data (10 studies). Data on organic matter and NDF digestibilities were collected to estimate D-value (Dv) and B-value (Bv) (20 and 33 studies, respectively). The equations obtained were: DMI(g/day)=50.5773±71.0504+1.4423±0.1704×ADG+28.4406±2.9697×BW;DMI(g/kgBW)=42.1088±4.7298+0.05516±0.009427×ADG−0.4402±0.1865×BW;NDFI(g/day)=−52.2187±47.7718+1.3773±0.2292×NDF(g/kgDM)−0.0007±0.0002×NDF(g/kgDM)2. DMI (g/kg BW) as a function of Dv (g/kg DM) revealed a quadratic relationship, whose point of maximum DMI (38.69 g/kg BW) was obtained at 634.1 g/kg DM Dv. On the other hand, DMI decreased linearly as Bv (g/kg DM) increased. In conclusion, equations to predict DMI from BW and ADG as well to predict NDFI from dietary NDF were fitted with great accuracy and are recommended for hair sheep raised in tropical regions. DMI values were, in general, greater than those reported by the NRC, AFRC and INRA systems, which may be a reflection of the sheep breeds used in this study. Using Dv and Bv concepts was satisfactory to describe an integrated mechanism between metabolic and bulking regulation of DMI in sheep.
Follow-up of 3 Million Persons Undergoing Colonoscopy in Germany: Utilization of Repeat Colonoscopies and Polypectomies Within 10 Years
Authors: Schwarz Sarina , Schäfer Wiebke , Horenkamp-Sonntag Dirk , Liebentraut Judith , Haug Ulrike
Published: December 2020

INTRODUCTION:

Given the sparsity of longitudinal studies on colonoscopy use, we quantified utilization of repeat colonoscopy within 10 years and the proportion of persons with polypectomies at first repeat colonoscopy using a large German claims database.

METHODS:

Based on the German Pharmacoepidemiological Research Database, we identified persons who underwent colonoscopy between 2006 and 2015 (index colonoscopy) and assessed colonoscopies and polypectomies during follow-up. We defined 3 subcohorts based on available procedure/diagnosis codes at index colonoscopy: persons with snare polypectomy, which is reimbursable for lesions ≥5 mm in size (cohort 1), with a forceps polypectomy (cohort 2), and without such procedures/diagnoses (cohort 3). We stratified all analyses by diagnostic vs screening index colonoscopy.

RESULTS:

Overall, we included 3,076,657 persons (cohort 1–3: 15%, 13%, 72%). Among persons with screening index colonoscopy (30%), the proportions with a repeat colonoscopy within 10 years in cohorts 1, 2, and 3 were 78%, 66%, and 43%, respectively, and a snare polypectomy at first repeat colonoscopy was performed in 27%, 17%, and 12%, respectively. In cohort 1, 32% of persons with a (first) repeat colonoscopy after 9 years had a snare polypectomy (after 3 years: 25%). Among persons with diagnostic index colonoscopies, 80%, 78%, and 65% had a repeat colonoscopy, and 27%, 17%, and 10% had a snare polypectomy at first repeat colonoscopy, respectively.

DISCUSSION:

Our study suggests substantial underuse of repeat colonoscopy among persons with previous snare polypectomy and overuse among lower risk groups. One-quarter of persons with a snare polypectomy at baseline had another snare polypectomy at first repeat colonoscopy.
O Espiritismo no Campo Religioso Brasileiro
Authors: Pereira Francisco Jomário
Published: December 2020

Neste trabalho buscamos refletir sobre a posição atual do espiritismo no campo religioso brasileiro. Para tal, faremos a análise do processo de implantação, crescimento, expansão e institucionalização do espiritismo a partir dos discursos produzidos sobre a doutrina. Analisaremos as tensas relações entre o Espiritismo e Catolicismo, como guia condutor das nossas análises, na busca de compreender como a relação entre as duas doutrinas religiosas influenciou o processo de institucionalização da religião espírita no Brasil e sua posição atual.
Coordenação em sistemas agroindustriais da pecuária bovina de corte no Brasil: uma caracterização bibliográfica
Authors: Guimarães Amanda Ferreira , Santos Rejane Heloise do , Schiavi Sandra Mara de Alencar , Souza José Paulo de
Published: December 2020

Dada importância do sistema agroindustrial da pecuária bovina de corte no Brasil, a existência de falhas de coordenação entre os agentes e a emergência de sistemas diferenciados, buscou-se neste artigo compreender, os mecanismos de governança adotados nos sistemas agroindustriais convencionais e diferenciados da pecuária bovina de corte no Brasil. A presente pesquisa, qualitativa e descritiva, envolveu pesquisa bibliográfica e foi fundamentada na Economia dos Custos de Transação e na Economia dos Custos de Mensuração. Os resultados apontam que o sistema convencional é caracterizado por baixa especificidade de ativos, elevada incerteza e baixa frequência; e dimensões facilmente mensuráveis, sendo transacionados via mercado spot. Os sistemas diferenciados possuem maior especificidade de ativo, incerteza e recorrência das transações; bem como dimensões que são difíceis de serem mensuradas. Nesse caso, não há um consenso quanto aos mecanismos de coordenação adotados. Encontrou-se de formas híbridas envolvendo relações de longo prazo, mecanismos formais e informais e uso de certificação por terceira parte, até integração vertical. Entretanto, verificou-se que falhas perduram tanto nos sistemas convencionais e diferenciados, principalmente associadas ao comportamento oportunista por parte dos agentes. Conclui-se que apesar dos esforços, perduram as falhas de coordenação nesses sistemas, podendo comprometer a continuidade dos mesmos.
Uma análise do acervo da revista produção online
Authors: Semaan Gustavo Silva , Ferraz Germano Lopes , Wilson Rodrigo Erthal , Corrêa Debora Alvernaz , Brito José André de Moura
Published: December 2020

Para a realização de meta-análises do acervo da Revista Produção Online foram considerados o processo de Descoberta de Conhecimento em Bases de Dados e conceitos de Teoria dos Grafos. Os resultados obtidos possuem estatísticas gerais, análises das redes de colaboração, termos em destaque por meio do uso de mineração de texto e a identificação de autores considerados influentes, com base em frequência de publicação, e nas medidas de centralidade em grafos. O objetivo do trabalho é apresentar um panorama geral e de contribuições da revista, de maneira impessoal, apolítica e restrita a dados públicos. Os resultados obtidos apoiam interpretações, perspectivas e saberes deste importante acervo.
The Quality Effect of Digital-Based Signature Services on the Performance of the District Government
Authors: Lionardo Andries
Published: December 2020

This study aims to measure the extent of the influence of digital-based signature service quality on the performance of the District Government of Palembang, Indonesia. The benefits of research provide solutions to the effectiveness of bureaucratic reform at the sub-district level. This research on the Effect of Digital-Based Signature Service Quality on Government Performance uses public service theory and organizational performance. This research method uses quantitative research methods. Research respondents were determined by population and sampling techniques following selected criteria relevant to the research problem. The research findings show that digital signatures are very significantly influential in overcoming slow problems and lengthy procedures in administrative services at the sub-district level. As a result, the socio-economic community feels facilitated in public services of its many types. The results of this study also go in line with efforts to reform public services undertaken by the Central Government so that aspects of organizational communication and public administration undergo fundamental changes.
Ambivalente Digitalisierung im Gesundheitssystem
Authors: Lenz Sarah
Published: December 2020

Vor dem Hintergrund einer zunehmenden Bedeutung und der gleichzeitigen Infragestellung digitaler Technologien in der Gesundheitsversorgung fragt der Beitrag danach, wie Entwickler*innen von Digital-Health-Technologien zwischen unterschiedlichen institutionellen Logiken vermitteln. Dabei wird davon ausgegangen, dass neue Logiken wie die der Digitalisierung mit bereits etablierten institutionellen Logiken in Einklang gebracht werden müssen, um anwendbar zu werden. Im Fokus der Untersuchung stehen deshalb Personen, die in etablierten medizinischen Bereichen als Ärzte tätig sind und gleichzeitig Digital-Health-Technologien entwickeln und implementieren. Die Befunde verweisen darauf, dass Digital-Health-Technologien derzeitige Konflikte zwischen einer zunehmenden Ökonomisierung des Gesundheitssystems und professionsethischen Ansprüchen harmonisieren sollen; gleichzeitig zeigt sich aber auch, dass digitale Technologien den Anspruch medizinischer Autonomie als zentrales Element des medizinischen Ethos untergraben können.
Video-Streaming in Bibliotheken: Herausforderungen und Chancen aus Anbietersicht
Authors: Fallert Sarah , Scheel Tilman
Published: December 2020

Überall auf der Welt feiern Video-on-Demand-Dienste ihren Siegeszug. Angesichts des boomenden Streaming-Marktes sowie des Rückgangs auf dem Kaufmarkt von Trägermedien wie DVDs und den dafür erforderlichen Abspielgeräten im privaten Gebrauch, stehen Bibliotheken und Video-Streaming-Anbieter vor der Herausforderung, eine Alternative zu schaffen, die den veränderten Bedürfnissen der Nutzer Rechnung trägt und gleichzeitig den weitestgehend unveränderten Erwerbungsbudgets der Bibliotheken gerecht wird.
Study on the optimal antagonistic effect of a bacterial complex against Monilinia fructicola in peach
Authors: Chang Haotian , Yang Haiqing , Han Tao , Wang Fang , Liu Yueping
Published: December 2020

Peach brown rot caused by Monilinia fructicola is one of the most economically destructive diseases of peach (Prunus persica L.) in some orchards of China. Biocontrol is a significant strategy that exhibits strong levels of control and ecologically sound concepts in disease management. The purpose of this study was to investigate the combined suppressive effects of three endophytic bacterial strains (xj-14, xj-15, and xj-16) and two soil rhizosphere bacterial strains (xj-A and xj-C) that were shown to have strong inhibitory activity toward M. fructicola in our previous study. The optimal strains and the optimized combination of strains were determined. The combination of strains xj-15 and xj-C inhibited M. fructicola more intensively for a longer period of time. Following the application of 1 × 109 CFU/mL bacterial complex to the fruits, leaves, and shoots of peach trees infected with M. fructicola, the rate of inhibition reached 73.80%, 83.33%, and 90.43%, respectively. A pot experiment using lettuce (Lactuca sativa) showed that inoculation with the bacterial complex significantly increased the growth of seedlings. In this study, some compound bacteria were more effective than those in previous study in suppressing disease and promoting growth, which have the potential to be further applied in the field.
The minimality of determinantal varieties
Authors: Bordemann Martin , Choe Jaigyoung , Hoppe Jens
Published: December 2020

The determinantal variety

Σ

p
⁢
q

{\Sigma_{pq}}

is defined to be the set of all

p
×
q

{p\times q}

real matrices with

p
≥
q

{p\geq q}

whose ranks are strictly smaller than q. It is proved that

Σ

p
⁢
q

{\Sigma_{pq}}

is a minimal cone in

ℝ

p
⁢
q

{\mathbb{R}^{pq}}

and all its strata are regular minimal submanifolds.
Die Praxis eines Öko-Islam – Mobilisierungspotentiale islamischer Umweltaktivismen unter besonderer Berücksichtigung Tansanias
Authors: Müller Sebastian
Published: December 2020

Der vorliegende Artikel setzt sich mit Umweltaktivismen im Islam unter besonderer Berücksichtigung Tansanias auseinander. Er bietet sowohl Einblicke in die akademische Forschung als auch einen Überblick über die theologischen Grundlagen und Theorien eines sogenannten Green bzw. Öko-Islam. Anhand von Streiflichtern aus Literatur sowie eigener Forschung in Tansania wird verdeutlicht, wie vornehmlich NGOs für ein entsprechendes Islamverständnis sensibilisieren. Argumentiert wird, dass bisher vielmehr von Potenzialen der Mobilisierung gesprochen werden kann und wird, als dass eine Selbstorganisation zum Schutz der Umwelt im Namen des Islams von großen Bevölkerungsteilen beobachtbar ist.
Effect of H/D ratio and impeller type on power consumption of agitator in continuous stirred tank reactor for nitrocellulose production from cotton linter and nitric acid
Authors: Christwardana Marcelinus , Harvianto Gregorius Rionugroho , Sunandar Kudrat , Novian Willy Dwi , Ramanto Rafi
Published: December 2020

In this study, the effect of height/diameter (H/D) ratio and type of impeller on the power consumption of the agitator in the Continuous Stirred Tank Reactor (CSTR) was analyzed. CSTR in the process of producing nitrocellulose from cotton linters with a production capacity of 10,000 tons/year was used as a case study. In designing a CSTR, power consumption is also considered because it is related to techno-economics. The results show that it is necessary to adjust the amount of impeller related to the H/D ratio value because it can affect the level of liquid in the reactor during the stirring process so that it also affects the reaction conversion. This work shows that with the higher H/D ratio, the greater number of impellers needed and increase the agitator power consumption. For specific applications, the number of impellers (NT) must be increased to meet the minimum power consumption. As the result, this work recommends the optimal H/D ratio for CSTR design is the maximum H/D ratio to get the NT-calculation as close as to the NT-taken while satisfying the minimum power consumption required. The optimal H/D ratio can be different depending on the impeller type and application.
New generalized trapezoidal type integral inequalities with applications
Authors: Kashuri Artion , Farid Ghulam , Set Erhan
Published: December 2020

Trapezoidal inequalities for functions of diverse nature are useful in numerical computations. The authors have proved an identity for a generalized integral operator via a differentiable function. By applying the established identity, the generalized trapezoidal type integral inequalities have been discovered. It is pointed out that the results of this research provide integral inequalities for almost all fractional integrals discovered in the recent decades. Various special cases have been identified. Some applications of presented results have been analyzed.
Prophylactic intravenous paracetamol use in extremely premature infants for patent ductus arteriosus
Authors: Silahli Musa , Gokmen Zeynel , Tekin Mehmet
Published: December 2020

Objectives

Patency of ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a very common problem among extremely low birth weight infants (ELBW). Hemodynamic instability caused by PDA is associated with important morbidities. This study aims to evaluate the effects of prophylactic intravenous paracetamol on the hemodynamically significant patent ductus arteriosus (hsPDA).

Methods

A total of 75 infants of <28 week-gestational age were enrolled into the study which was retrospective. Prophylactic paracetamol as the experimental group and none-prophylaxis group as the control group were compared in the study.

Results

There were 35 subjects in the prophylactic paracetamol group (PPG), and 40 in the control group. Primary outcome measures were ductal closure, ductal diameter, grade 3–4 IVH, and repeated ibuprofen need for the treatment of hsPDA. At the time of the evaluation by echo, hsPDA, and the diameter of the ductus higher than 1 mm were found significantly lower in the PPG (p=0.004 and p=0.013). Additionally, the repeated course of ibuprofen was significantly lower in the PPG (p=0.025). Secondary outcomes were the other perinatal morbidities. According to the results of the study, the male gender is 6.6, and the paracetamol use is 5.5 times more likely to suffer from ROP.

Conclusions

The results of the study indicated that prophylactic paracetamol use in ELBW infants decreases the likelihood of hsPDA. The repeated course of ibuprofen for the treatment of hsPDA can be reduced. Furthermore, it can be understood that while prophylactic use of paracetamol is preventive for intraventricular hemorrhage, it does not function in the same way for retinopathy of prematurity or bronchopulmonary dysplasia. It might even worse the retinopathy of prematurity. Further prospective randomized controlled and larger sample-sized studies are needed.
Phenolic constituents and inhibitory effects of the leaf of Rauvolfia vomitoria Afzel on free radicals, cholinergic and monoaminergic enzymes in rat’s brain in vitro
Authors: Oyeniran Olubukola H. , Ademiluyi Adedayo O. , Oboh Ganiyu
Published: December 2020

Objectives

Rauvolfia vomitoria is a medicinal plant used traditionally in Africa in the management of several human diseases including psychosis. However, there is inadequate scientific information on the potency of the phenolic constituents of R. vomitoria leaf in the management of neurodegeneration. Therefore, this study characterized the phenolic constituents and investigated the effects of aqueous and methanolic extracts of R. vomitoria leaf on free radicals, Fe2+-induced lipid peroxidation, and critical enzymes linked to neurodegeneration in rat’s brain in vitro.

Methods

The polyphenols were evaluated by characterizing phenolic constituents using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detector (HPLC-DAD). The antioxidant properties were assessed through the extracts ability to reduce Fe3+ to Fe2+; inhibit ABTS, DPPH, and OH radicals and Fe2+-induced lipid peroxidation. The effects of the extracts on AChE and MAO were also evaluated.

Results

The phenolic characterization of R. vomitoria leaf revealed that there were more flavonoids present. Both aqueous and methanolic extracts of R. vomitoria leaf had inhibitory effects with the methanolic extract having higher significant (p≤0.05) free radicals scavenging ability coupled with inhibition of monoamine oxidases. However, there was no significant (p≤0.05) difference obtained in the inhibition of lipid peroxidation and cholinesterases.

Conclusion

This study suggests that the rich phenolic constituents of R. vomitoria leaf might contribute to the observed antioxidative and neuroprotective effects. The methanolic extract was more potent than the aqueous extract; therefore, extraction of R. vomitoria leaf with methanol could offer better health-promoting effects in neurodegenerative condition.
Bacterial endosymbiont inhabiting Leucaena leucocephala leaves and their antioxidant and antidiabetic potential
Authors: Chigurupati Sridevi , Vijayabalan Shantini , Selvarajan Kesavanarayanan Krishnan , Alhowail Ahmad , Kauser Fatema
Published: December 2020

Objectives

Research on endosymbionts is emerging globally and is considered as a potential source of bioactive phytochemicals. The present study examines the antioxidant and antidiabetic of the endophytic crude extract isolated from Leucaena leucocephala leaves.

Methods

Endophytic bacteria were isolated from the leaves of L. leucocephala and 16S rRNA gene sequencing was used to establish their identity. The in vitro antioxidant effect of endophytic crude extract (LL) was evaluated using 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2, 2′-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS) free radical scavenging methods. The in vitro antidiabetic properties of LL were evaluated using α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzyme inhibition assay.

Results

The isolated endophytic bacteria were identified as Cronobacter sakazakii. LL displayed potent free radical scavenging effect against ABTS and DPPH radicals with an inhibitory concentration 50% (IC50) value of 17.49 ± 0.06 and 11.3 ± 0.1 μg/mL respectively. LL exhibited α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition with an IC50 value of 23.3 ± 0.08 and 23.4 ± 0.1 μg/mL respectively compared to the standard drug (acarbose). Both glucose loaded normoglycemic rats and STZ induced diabetic rats treated with LL (200 mg/kg) exhibited a considerable reduction in blood glucose levels p<0.01 after 8 h of treatment when compared to normal and diabetic control rats respectively.

Conclusions

Thus, the study shows that LL has a wellspring of natural source of antioxidants, and antidiabetic agents and phytoconstituents present in endophytes could be the rich source for bioactive compounds.
Transient benign hyperphosphatasemia due to COVID-19: the first case report
Authors: Erat Tugba , Atar Müge , Kontbay Tugba
Published: December 2020

Objectives

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) rapidly spread worldwide in a few months and was declared as a worldwide pandemic by WHO in March 2020. Transient benign hyperphosphatasemia (THI) is a benign condition associated with marked elevation of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) without any other kidney, bone, and liver pathologies.

Case presentation

Herein, we report a previously healthy 16-month-old female patient who developed a secondary transient benign hyperphosphatasemia associated with SARS-CoV-2. Patient whole family’s SARS-CoV-2 real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) results were positive. Since THI is a diagnosis of exclusion, other reasons that may cause ALP elevation should be ruled out. ALP activity decreased and turned to normal ranges within the following month. THI has been reported to be in association with various conditions. Its relationship with many viruses has been reported previously.

Conclusions

If ALP elevation is detected in patients with COVID 19 due to the increasing number of infections, THI should be considered if there is no other accompanying pathology.
Topic marking in Kusaal and selected Mabia (Gur) languages of West Africa
Authors: Abubakari Hasiyatu
Published: December 2020

This article looks at topic marking strategies in Kusaal and related Mabia (Gur) languages: Dagaare, Buli, Moore, Dabgani, and Gurene, spoken in Ghana, Togo and Ivory Coast. It is generally observed that these languages use left dislocation as a topic coding strategy. They either use topic phrases or particles, which may be obligatory or optional. It is argued that the languages under discussion cannot be fully classified as subject prominent languages alongside other Niger-Congo languages. It is shown that these languages demonstrate features that put them in between subject prominent and topic prominent languages. To identify a topic constituent in these languages, three tests are suggested: the if+be test, the “aboutness test” and the use of left dislocation accompanied by a resumptive pronoun.
Identification of ZG16B as a prognostic biomarker in breast cancer
Authors: Lu Haotian , Shi Chunying , Liu Xinyu , Liang Chen , Yang Chaochao , Wan Xueqi , Li Ling , Liu Ying
Published: December 2020

Zymogen granule protein 16B (ZG16B) has been identified in various cancers, while so far the association between ZG16B and breast cancer hasn’t been explored. Our aim is to confirm whether it can serve as a prognostic biomarker in breast cancer. In this study, Oncomine, Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia (CCLE), Ualcan, and STRING database analyses were conducted to detect the expression level of ZG16B in breast cancer with different types. Kaplan–Meier plotter was used to analyze the prognosis of patients with high or low expression of ZG16B. We found that ZG16B was significantly upregulated in breast cancer. Moreover, ZG16B was closely associated with foregone biomarkers and crucial factors in breast cancer. In the survival analysis, high expression of ZG16B represents a favorable prognosis in patients. Our work demonstrates the latent capacity of ZG16B to be a biomarker for prognosis of breast cancer.
On the exponential Diophantine equation Px
n
+ P

x

n+1 + ⋯ + P

x

n+k-1 = Pm
Authors: Luca Florian , Tchammou Euloge , Togbé Alain
Published: December 2020

In this paper, we find all the solutions of the title Diophantine equation in positive integers (m, n, k, x), where P

i
is the i

th
term of the Pell sequence.
Lead-free metal-halide double perovskites: from optoelectronic properties to applications
Authors: Ghasemi Mehri , Hao Mengmeng , Xiao Mu , Chen Peng , He Dongxu , Zhang Yurou , Chen Weijian , Fan Jiandong , Yun Jung H. , Jia Baohua , Wen Xiaoming
Published: December 2020

Lead (Pb) halide perovskites have witnessed highly promising achievements for high-efficiency solar cells, light-emitting diodes (LEDs), and photo/radiation detectors due to their exceptional optoelectronic properties. However, compound stability and Pb toxicity are still two main obstacles towards the commercialization of halide perovskite-based devices. Therefore, it is of substantial interest to search for non-toxic candidates with comparable photophysical characteristics. Metal-halide double perovskites (MHDPs), A2BBʹX6, are recently booming as promising alternatives for Pb-based halide-perovskites for their non-toxicity and significantly enhanced chemical and thermodynamic stability. Moreover, this family exhibits rich combinatorial chemistry with tuneable optoelectronic properties and thus a great potential for a broad range of optoelectronic/electronic applications. Herein, we present a comprehensive review of the MHDPs synthesized so far, and classified by their optical and electronic properties. We systematically generalize their electronic structure by both theoretical and experimental efforts to prospect the relevant optoelectronic properties required by different applications. The progress of the materials in various applications is explicated in view of the material structure-function relationship. Finally, a perspective outlook to improve the physical and optoelectronic properties of the materials is proposed aiming at fostering their future development and applications.
The Five-State Requirement of IRC Section 4945(f)(2)
Authors: Brooks Ronan
Published: December 2020

Consistently low rates of voter turnout in U.S. elections demand remedy. Antiquated legislation limits the ability of nonprofits to contribute to nonpartisan voter engagement. The article focuses on one piece of such legislation, section 4945(f)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code. First, the article outlines the legislative history of this provision and highlights the racist and classist basis of its passage. Through discussion of the ongoing harm caused by section 4945(f)(2), the article demonstrates the need for reform of this provision.
Glücksspielbezogene Probleme als Public Health Aufgabe am Beispiel Jugendlicher
Authors: Hayer Tobias
Published: December 2020

Der nationale Glücksspielmarkt zeichnet sich durch mannigfaltige Spielanreize aus. Gleichzeitig gehen mit Glücksspielangeboten zum Teil erhebliche Suchtgefahren einher. Dabei ist das Erkrankungsrisiko auf Bevölkerungsebene ungleich verteilt, zu den Risikogruppen zählen auch Jugendliche. Die Verhinderung glücksspielbezogener Probleme im Jugendalter muss als Public Health Aufgabe verstanden werden, die nur bei Umsetzung eines breiten Präventionsansatzes mit aufeinander abgestimmten verhältnis- und verhaltenspräventive Maßnahmen gelingen kann.
Das Design von Klimaschutzverhandlungen
Authors: Schmidt Klaus M.
Published: December 2020

In seiner Thünen-Vorlesung vor dem Verein für Socialpolitik im Herbst 2020 hat Klaus Schmidt das Design von Klimaschutzverhandlungen untersucht. Er geht dabei von einem Vorschlag Martin Weitzmans aus, künftige Verhandlungen auf einen einheitlichen CO2-Mindestpreis zu fokussieren. Wäre ein solches Vorgehen demjenigen, wie es in den Abkommen von Paris und Kyoto praktiziert wurde, tatsächlich überlegen? Schmidt berichtet von zwei experimentellen Studien, in denen er gemeinsam mit Koautoren Licht auf diese Frage geworfen hat. Die Ergebnisse beider Studien unterstützen den Vorschlag von Weitzman.
Disneyjevi animirani antropomorfi
Authors: Kujundžić Nada
Published: December 2020

Dopadljive antropomorfne životinje zacijelo su jedno od najprepoznatljivijih obilježja animiranih filmova američkog studija Walt Disney.Snjeguljica i sedam patuljaka(1937.), prvi cjelovečernji animirani Disneyjev film, uz naslovne likove uključuje i niz dobroćudnih šumskih životinja koje pomažu junakinji, štiteći je i obavljajući kućanske poslove. S obzirom na golem uspjehSnjeguljice, motiv životinjskih pomagača iskorišten je i u narednim filmovima, te s vremenom postaje neizostavan dio Disneyjevog repertoara. U istraživačkom fokusu ovoga rada upravo su životinjski likovi (tj. likovi ne-ljudskih životinja) u dugometražnim animiranim Disneyjevim filmovima. Korpus istraživanja obuhvaća 48 filmova nastalih u razdoblju od 1937. do 2019. godine. Oslanjajući se na kulturnu animalistiku i postojeća interdisciplinarna istraživanja Disneyjeve animirane produkcije (tzv.Disney studies), rad analizira prikaze životinjskih likova, napose njihovu antropomorfizaciju i način na koji je njihov status protagonista/antagonista vizualno kodiran, te odnos ljudskih i životinjskih likova. Rezultati istraživanja upućuju na dominantno antropocentričnu perspektivu analiziranih filmova.
THE IMPLICATIONS OF DEBT FINANCING ON WORKING CAPITAL MANAGEMENT EFFICIENCY: EVIDENCE FROM MENA EMERGING MARKETS
Authors: Alrahamneh Luay , Chu Ei Yet , Hong Meenchee
Published: December 2020

This proposed study aims to examine how debt financing affects the working capital management (WCM) efficiency of firms in eight selected MENA countries over the period 2016-2020. This study discusses different theories of debt financing which include the trade-off theory, the pecking order theory, the market timing theory, and the agency theory (i.e., the agency theory of debt, equity, and free cash flow). Particularly, the study addresses how short-term debt, long-term debt, and total debt influence WCM efficiency. We hypothesize that there are positive relationships between the short-term debt (measured by the current ratio), the long-term debt (measured by the long-term debt to total assets ratio), and the total debt (measured by the total debt to total assets ratio) toward WCM (measured by cash conversion cycle). Firm’s specific characteristics such as the firm type, the firm size, firm’s sales growth, and tangibility were used as control variables for WCM. To achieve the study objectives, a sample of 718 non-financial listed companies on stock exchanges in countries of Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and UAE will be used over the period 2016-2020. Secondary quantitative data will be collected from the annual financial statements of firms. The multiple regression model will be used to test the study hypotheses. This proposed paper originally contributes to the extant literature in several ways. First, there were limited studies of WCM in the MENA context and the current study provided a new insight that has not been investigated before in the MENA region. Thus, it bridges the gap in the literature. However, the majority of extant WCM literature emphasized the relationship between efficient WCM and firms profitability. Moreover, this paper contributes to developing efficient WCM practices and strategies that improve the financial performance of listed companies in the MENA region
Phase Relations of Iron Carbides Fe2C, Fe3C, and Fe7C3 at the Earth’s Core Pressures and Temperatures
Authors: Sagatov N.E. , Gavryushkin P.N. , Medrish I.V. , Inerbaev T.M. , Litasov K.D.
Published: December 2020

—Based on first-principle calculations in the framework of the density functional theory and structure prediction algorithms, we have determined iron carbide phases stable at the Earth’s core pressures and temperatures. It is shown that Fe7C3 is unstable and decomposes into the mixture Fe2C + Fe3C over the entire range of pressures and temperatures specific to the Earth’s inner core. Subsequent decomposition of Fe3C into the mixture Fe + Fe2C is unfavorable. We also predict a new low-temperature modification Fe3C-C2/m-II dynamically and thermodynamically stable over the pressure range 290–305 GPa.
Direct Listing – Alternative zum klassischen Börsengang?
Authors: Sieder Sebastian , Baumgartner Jörg
Published: December 2020

In den USA hat sich durch die beiden Börsengänge von Spotify und Slack das sog. Direct Listing als alternative Form des Börsengangs entwickelt. Durch diese Innovation steht Börsenaspiranten eine neue Option zur Verfügung, um ein Börsenlisting zu erreichen. Der vorliegende Beitrag charakterisiert dieses Direct Listing nach US-Vorbild und zeigt die rechtlichen Rahmenbedingungen in Europa für den Börsengang via Direct Listing am Beispiel der deutschen und der österreichischen Jurisdiktionen auf.
Jornalismo das periferias
Authors: Rovida Mara
Published: December 2020

Nas periferias da Região Metropolitana de São Paulo (RMSP), maior macrometrópole do Brasil, observam-se iniciativas de produção jornalística conformadas em políticas editoriais assumidamente vinculadas ao território. Para compreender a realidade dessa prática comunicacional, uma pesquisa de campo pautada pela ideia de descrição densa de Clifford Geertz (2008) foi desenvolvida entre 2018 e 2019. O objetivo do trabalho – alcançar uma interpretação possível sobre a prática jornalística nos territórios periféricos da RMSP – é organizado em três frentes: contexto de pesquisa (as periferias), sujeitos de pesquisa (jornalistas das periferias) e fenômeno pesquisado (jornalismo das periferias). Atesta-se que os significados atribuídos pelos sujeitos da pesquisa – configuração epistêmica da abordagem etnográfica segundo Geertz – a seus fazeres comunicacionais, suas identidades e seus territórios são plurais e complexos.
Ícone de um passado a ser esquecido
Authors: Karsburg Alexandre
Published: December 2020

Este artigo analisa as controvérsias surgidas entre representantes da Igreja católica e vereadores municipais de Santa Maria, interior do Rio Grande do Sul, pela decisão em demolir ou não uma igreja matriz. De um lado, estavam o padre local e o bispo empenhados na preservação do prédio católico; do outro, vereadores buscando o aval do governo provincial e da própria Igreja para demolir o templo, argumentando que seu “aspecto miserável” era vergonhoso para a cidade moderna que se queria construir. Para refletir a respeito dessa desavença, sucedida entre 1884 e 1888, é preciso, primeiro, analisar o que levou a matriz a chegar ao seu aspecto ruinoso. Para isso, iremos utilizar as correspondências trocadas entre a Câmara Municipal de Vereadores de Santa Maria e o governo provincial. Em um segundo momento deste artigo, se fará necessário explicar os significados daquela igreja e as ideias que estavam por trás da tentativa de derrubá-la. Acreditamos que a expectativa da chegada da ferrovia à cidade fez com que os vereadores tomassem atitudes controversas, gerando tensão com os representantes da Igreja católica e do governo provincial. Como contexto geral, temos as relações entre religião, política e modernidade na segunda metade do século XIX, revelando conflitos entre Igreja e Estado no final do Império e início da República.
Avaliadores 2020
Authors: Maia Tatyana de Amaral , Murari Luciana
Published: December 2020

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O CPERS, o petismo e a Assembleia Legislativa Gaúcha
Authors: Lapuente Rafael Saraiva
Published: December 2020

O nosso objetivo neste artigo é analisar de que maneira a oposição procurou explorar a relação entre o Centro dos Professores do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul (CPERS) e o Governo do Estado no período em que Olívio Dutra (Partido dos Trabalhadores – PT) comandou o executivo do Rio Grande do Sul. Para isso, utilizamos as fontes jornalísticas (jornais Correio do Povo e Zero Hora) e discursos proferidos pelos parlamentares na tribuna da Assembleia Legislativa gaúcha (1999-2002). Para essa análise, nos apoiamos no aporte teórico da sociologia bourdesiana para compreender a luta simbólica entre as bancadas e seus agentes. Partimos da premissa de que o Governo era minoritário no parlamento e, por isso, tinha que enfrentar uma oposição que visava reverter a ascensão do PT no campo político regional. Além disso, consideramos o fato de os movimentos sociais servirem como um importante recurso do microcosmo governista, que proporcionou a conversão em capital político para ela, explicando parte de sua ascensão apesar da origem extraparlamentar do partido no período da redemocratização.
Das possibilidades e usos da história ambiental, ou uma introdução ao dossiê temático “História e Ambiente”
Authors: Flores-Coelho Caio F. , De Azevedo Paula Tatiane , Klever Lucas de Oliveira
Published: December 2020

Apresentação do dossiê temático "História e Ambiente" da edição 2020/2 da Oficina do Historiador.