bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Markov chains to determine the probability of climate change for planting selection in the city of Caxias do Sul
Authors: Vargas Vanessa Bertholdo , Corso Leandro , Vallejos Rolando Vargas
Published: October 2021

ABSTRACT: The Markov stochastic chain model and the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) were used as tools to support decision-making for the best crop-planting choice in the city of Caxias do Sul, Brazil. Temperature and precipitation information were collected from the Meteorological Database for Teaching and Research of the National Institute of Meteorology of Brazil for the period 1997-2017. The stochastic model was applied to obtain the probability of transition between a range of variations for temperature and precipitation. In the second phase of the study, an algebraic model was developed, making it possible to link the probability of the Markov chain transition matrix to the AHP judgment matrix. In the third phase, the AHP was applied as a tool to determine the most beneficial crop that could be planted for the studied city, considering the evaluated criteria: temperature, precipitation, and soil pH. The alternatives for crop planting were carrots, tomatoes, apples, and grapes. These were chosen because they are the most-planted crops in the city of Caxias do Sul. The ranking of the benefit-force results of applying the model for spring was carrots (0.297), apples (0.259), grapes (0.228), and tomatoes (0.215); for summer: grapes (0.261), tomatoes (0.261), apples (0.238), and carrots (0.230); for autumn: carrots (0.316), grapes (0.243), tomatoes (0.228), and apples (0.213); and for winter: carrots (0.327), tomatoes (0.235), apples (0.222), and grapes (0.216). Thus, it was concluded that farmers would have a better chance of success if they planted carrots during the spring, autumn, and winter, and grapes during the summer.
Scrotal hemangiosarcoma in a Large White boar
Authors: Silveira Renato Luiz , Cruz Ana Claudia de Menezes , Doria Phillipe Bauer de Araújo , Silveira Joao Marcelo Silva , Vasconcelos Carlos Otávio de Paula , Rodrigues André Luis Rios , Arashiro Eduardo Kenji Nunes , Jerdy Hassan , Dias Mariana Tavares , Carvalho Eulógio Carlos Queiroz de , Costa Carlos Henrique Campello
Published: October 2021

ABSTRACT: Tumors are rarely diagnosed in swine specie because of the short lifespan of production animals. Normally, these tumors do not present any clinical signs and are often detected at the time of slaughter. A 2-year-old Large White boar, used in the reproductive management of a farm and without a history of pre-existing problems, was examined for skin lesions on the scrotum. Samples were collected from skin segments containing lesions for histopathological and immunohistochemical diagnosis. Microscopically, the nodes in the scrotum pouch consisted of poorly demarcated, highly cellular, expansile, and multifocally invasive neoplasms, composed of immature endotheliocytes organized into neovascular formations. The tumor cells were pleomorphic, slightly oval to spindle-shaped, with eosinophilic cytoplasm and hyperchromatic nuclei with one to three nucleoli. All the nodules analyzed were compatible with hemangiosarcoma. After immunohistochemical evaluation, for the quantification of tissue angiogenesis the neoplastic cells immunoexpressed the CD31 monoclonal antibodies and factor VIII, through the identification of proteins expressed on the surface of endothelial cells. The Ki67 cell proliferation marker was positive in approximately 10% of the neoplastic cells, demonstrating a high degree of malignancy. Hemangiosarcoma in swine species has already been identified in several organs and tissues; however, to date, no study has demonstrated the diagnosis of this condition on the skin of the scrotum, as reported in this study. Therefore, it is expected that this report will contribute to the knowledge of the frequency of neoplasms in swine species.
Changes in serum adenosine deaminase and isoenzyme levels in addition to routine liver biochemical parameters in sheep with chronic fascioliasis
Authors: Altuğ Nuri , Başbuğan Yıldıray , Yuksek Nazmi
Published: October 2021

ABSTRACT: This study assessed changes in the levels of adenosine deaminase (ADA) and its isoenzymes in addition to routine liver biochemical parameters in sheep with fascioliasis. The study was conducted on 35 Akkaraman sheep. Of these, 25 sheep were diagnosed with fascioliasis based on anamnesis and clinical signs, and had endoparasites based on parasitological examinations (Fasciola-infected group). The remaining 10 sheep that were sampled from a single healthy herd (same flock) different from the infected group did not have any clinical signs or endoparasites (control group). Total protein (TP), albumin (ALB), and globulin (GLB) levels gradually increased on days after treatment compared to the values measured before treatment; the increases were statistically significant on all days for TP levels but only on day 14 after treatment for GLB levels (P < 0.05). Although, the ALB levels did not increase significantly on days after treatment, the ALB level and ALB/GLB ratio on days 7 and 14 after treatment were still lower than the values of day 21 after treatment and control group (P < 0.05). Total bilirubin (T-Bil) and direct bilirubin (D-Bil) levels on days 14 and 21 were significantly lower than that of day 0 (before treatment) and day 7 after treatment (P < 0.05). These results indicated that the increase in adenosine deaminase (ADA) and ADA1 levels may be due to possible concomitant infection of Fasciola larvae (in the parenchyma) and adults (in the bile duct).
Hypomagnesemia in beef cattle from the central region of Argentina: retrospective study
Authors: Cantón Germán José , Fernández Eduardo Luján , Poo Juan Ignacio , Späth Ernesto Juan Alfredo , Odriozola Ernesto Raúl , Monterubbianesi María Gloria , Moreno Fabiana Carina
Published: October 2021

ABSTRACT: Hypomagnesaemia (grass tetany) is a metabolic disorder of ruminants due to a reduced dietary intake of magnesium (primary deficiency), incorrect digestibility or associated metabolic factors reducing Mg intake (secondary deficiency). Grass tetany is a production disease responsible for important economic losses in beef herds from Argentina. Several factors influence the development of grass tetany in cattle, including physiological status, weather, soil and forage. This research described a retrospective analysis over the past 20 years, revising the cases of beef cattle clinical hypomagnesaemia registered at the Veterinary Diagnostic Service in INTA Balcarce, Argentina.
Zoonotic bacteria research and analysis of antimicrobial resistance levels in parrot isolates from pet shops in the city of Fortaleza, Brazil
Authors: Marques Adson R. , Lima Bruno P. , Teixeira Régis S.C. , Albuquerque Átilla H. , Lopes Elisângela S. , Maciel William C. , Beleza Antonio Jackson F. , Alencar Thiago R.
Published: October 2021

ABSTRACT: The Psittaciformes are among the most popular pets due to their intelligence, ability, and ease of maintenance in small environments. However, the absence of adequate environmental stimuli generated by confinement can predispose these animals to characteristic stress conditions, leaving them susceptible to the triggering of various diseases, among which those of bacterial origin stand out. The objective of this study was to carry out a survey of enterobacteria and evaluate the antimicrobial sensitivity profile of bacteria isolated from parrots from a pet shop in the city of Fortaleza, Ceará. Ninety-six samples were collected from four pet shops (which were classified as A, B, C and D), eight samples of local swabs from budgerigar (Melopsittacus undulatus), were collected from each establishment eight from cockatiels (Nymphicus hollandicus) and eight from lovebirds (Agapornis sp.). Isolation of enterobacteria is under the methodology used by Lopes et al. (2015) with modifications. The method used to study bacterial resistance was the Kirby-Bauer method, following the standards stipulated by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute. Sixty-eight enterobacteria strains from ten different species, Proteus mirabilis, Citrobacter diversus, Pantoea agglomerans, Escherichia coli, Providencia stuartii, Hafnia alvei, Proteus vulgaris, Serratia liquefaciens, Enterobacter sakasakii and Citrobacter amalonaticus, were isolated. P. agglomerans was the bacterium with the highest frequency of isolates from pet shop parrots, making up 23.5% of the isolates; the second-most isolated strain was P. mirabilis with 17.7%. In this study, 79% of the isolated strains were resistant to at least one class of antimicrobials tested. Tetracycline proved to be the most resistant antimicrobial (44%), followed by polymyxin B (38%) and nalidixic acid (25%). Among the 68 strains, 19% did not show resistance to any of the classes of antimicrobials tested. The condition of multidrug resistance - resistance to ≥3 classes of antimicrobials - was observed in 18% of the isolated strains.
Clinical and laboratory findings in sheep experimentally poisoned by Palicourea marcgravii and the use of magnesium chloride with possible therapeutic effect on poisoning
Authors: Cunha Isabelle M. , Lessa Daniel A.B. , Carvalho Vivian A.N. , Alencar Nayro X. , Teixeira André L.S. , Caldas Saulo A. , Souza Guilherme N. , Helayel Michel J.SA.
Published: October 2021

ABSTRACT: This study aimed to examine the efficacy of magnesium chloride therapy in sheep experimentally poisoned by Palicourea marcgravii and describe the clinical and laboratory findings that may aid in early ante mortem diagnosis of this poisoning. P. marcgravii is an important plant within a group of 22 species in Brazil that cause “sudden death.” Its toxic component is sodium monofluoroacetate. It was observed that a time for evolution of poisoning was longer in our study compared to other studies that used the same dose of P. marcgravii in sheep. However, all animals that were poisoned and subsequently treated with magnesium chloride died. The sheep presented characteristic clinical signs before death in addition to other signs that have not been previously described for this type of poisoning, such as abdominal breathing, coughing, head pressing, and nystagmus. This is the first evaluation of hematological parameters of sheep poisoned by P. marcgravii. Leukocytosis with neutrophilia, hyperfibrinogenemia, and hyperglycemia, associated with hypophosphatemia and elevated levels of serum aspartato aminotransferase (AST), glutamate dehydrogenase (GLDH), urea, creatinine, creatine kinase (CK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), were observed. Additionally, changes were noted in necropsy, such as engorged jugular, large vessel congestion, pulmonary edema. Histological examination revealed vacuolar hydropic degeneration in the distal twisted uriniferous tubules in the kidneys, similar to those reported in previous studies on P. marcgravii poisoning.
LEMBRANÇAS DE UM PERCURSO ACADÊMICO: UMA ANÁLISE SEMIÓTICA DA CONSTRUÇÃO DO ATOR DA ENUNCIAÇÃO DOS MEMORIAIS
Authors: BARROS Mariana Luz Pessoa de
Published: October 2021

RESUMO O memorial acadêmico parece ser um objeto privilegiado para o exame de simulacros e valores relacionados aos modos de atuação no meio acadêmico brasileiro. Ao escrevê-lo, o professor-pesquisador reelabora seu percurso profissional e intelectual como resposta a uma exigência institucional, uma vez que, no Brasil, muitos concursos que fazem parte da carreira universitária solicitam a elaboração de um memorial acadêmico. Tendo isso em vista, estabelecemos como objetivo deste trabalho analisar a produção da imagem do enunciador-candidato dos memoriais, a partir das propostas de Discini (2003, 2015) e de Fiorin (2004, 2015), desenvolvidas para o tratamento do ator da enunciação no âmbito da semiótica de base greimasiana. Exemplares de diferentes áreas e faculdades da Universidade de São Paulo são comparados, o que permite a verificação de suas diferenças e de suas semelhanças quanto ao emprego de procedimentos textuais e discursivos na construção do ator da enunciação. Como resultado, depreendemos a imagem de um professor-pesquisador arrojado, inovador, competitivo e cooperativo nos memoriais das Biológicas e de um professor-pesquisador crítico, criativo e levemente desviante nos memoriais das Humanidades.
Biotic differentiation in headwater creeks after the massive introduction of non-native freshwater aquarium fish in the Paraíba do Sul River basin, Brazil
Authors: Magalhães André Lincoln B. , Bezerra Luis Artur V. , Daga Vanessa S. , Pelicice Fernando M. , Vitule Jean R. S. , Brito Marcelo F. G.
Published: October 2021

Abstract This study evaluated fish beta diversity in six headwater creeks located in the area affected by the largest ornamental aquaculture center implemented in the Minas Gerais State, southeastern Brazil. We sampled fish assemblages in 2017 and 2018 to investigate changes in assemblage structure (species richness and beta diversity), comparing these data with the historic species pool. We recorded 60 fish species, of which 16 were native and 44 non-native with 19 translocated, and 25 exotic. The exotics Poecilia reticulata, Xiphophorus maculatus, X. variatus, Danio rerio, and Misgurnus anguillicaudatus were the most widely distributed in the headwater creeks. The Contamination Index showed that most creeks had high proportional contamination by exotic species (above 60%). Beta diversity increased from historical to contemporary periods in all creeks due to the introduction and differential colonization pressure of several non-native translocated and exotic species, indicating biotic differentiation. Temperature and number of ponds were the main preditors of change in beta diversity in the headwater creeks during the contemporary period. In summary, we observed that invaders have induced substantial changes to fish communities under influence of environmental filters. Our results support the hipothesis that aquaculture is a main driver of fish non-native fish introduction and native biodiversity loss in the Neotropics.
Long-term trends of fishery landings and target fish populations in the lower La Plata basin
Authors: Scarabotti Pablo A. , Lucifora Luis O. , Espínola Luis A. , Rabuffetti Ana P. , Liotta Jorge , Mantinian Julia E. , Roux Juan P. , Silva Natalia , Balboni Leandro , Vargas Facundo , Demonte Lucio Danilo , Sánchez Sebastián
Published: October 2021

Abstract The La Plata basin is the second largest basin of South America and has supported important river fisheries for more than a century. In this paper, we evaluate for the first time the historical trends of landings of 21 fish taxa and the recent population trends of 27 species of commercial fishes in the lower La Plata basin (Argentina). We compiled three kinds of data sets: Total fishery landings (between 1934 and 1986) and exports (1994‒2019), fisheries monitoring programs of Chaco and Santa Fe provinces in the Paraná River (2009‒2019), and surveys of fish populations in the Upper (Corrientes, 1993‒2020) and Middle (EBIPES, 2005‒2020) Paraná River. The analysis of the historical landings showed more species declining in the lower portion of the basin than in the upper basin. Regarding recent population trends, Pimelodus spp., Hoplias spp., Salminus brasiliensis, Luciopimelodus pati, and Ageneiosus spp. declined in more than one region, while Megaleporinus spp., Pterodoras granulosus, and Oxydoras kneri showed stable to positive trends, with the other species varying in their trends between regions. These tendencies could be associated to a combination of factors such as overfishing and environmental changes that would require an ecosystem approach for their adequate management.
Standard Jones and Modified Jones: An Earnings Management Tutorial
Authors: Costa Cristiano Machado , Soares José Mauro Madeiros Velôso
Published: October 2021

ABSTRACT Context: measurement of earnings management usually requires multi-step models for computation. After examining the literature through bibliometrics studies, literature review, and research databases, we found that the Standard Jones model and its subsequent modifications are those that have more prominent use. Much of this research is potentially interesting for business theories related to earnings quality and accounting manipulation; however, it is difficult to be understood by junior researchers and practitioners, because they are not clearly described in the literature or the steps may be easy to confuse. Objective: in this tutorial, we present several key concepts about earnings management and explain, step by step, how to measure it. Method: our tutorial considers measurement using the following models: Standard Jones, Modified Jones, Modified Jones with return on assets (ROA), and Modified Jones using Cash Flows and Accruals Reversals. Conclusions: our main contribution with this tutorial is to provide a step-by-step guide for future studies, so that they can be more comparable with each other when using measurement methods of earnings management.
Drivers for Teleconsultation Acceptance in Brazil: Patients’ Perspective during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Peixoto Marcus Rodrigues , Ferreira Jorge Brantes , Oliveira Laís
Published: October 2021

ABSTRACT Context: teleconsultation can be a strategic technological tool for patients to access quality healthcare while dealing with resource challenges within health industry. It can be particularly relevant during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, when the social distancing world had to scramble for new technological solutions to offer quality healthcare services with reduced personal contact. Objective: our research proposes an integrative technology acceptance model to evaluate the drivers of teleconsultation adoption by patients, aligning constructs from the technology acceptance model with other drivers, such as technology readiness, trust, and self-efficacy. Methods: analyses included descriptive statistics and structural equations modeling based on survey’s data from a sample of 415 consumers. Results: results indicate significant relationships between the assessed constructs, with particular relevance on the effects of perceived usefulness, anteceded by trust and technology readiness, on attitude and intention to use teleconsultation. Conclusion: our findings provide helpful insights for health organizations and regulators associated with the diffusion of teleconsultation. The study findings also indicate that the challenging COVID-19 pandemic context may be affecting patients’ intention to adopt teleconsultation.
Anemia and nutritional aspects in adolescent athletes: a cross-sectional study in a reference sport organization
Authors: Capanema Flávio Diniz , Lamounier Joel Alves , Ribeiro José Geraldo Leite , Lima Cláudio Olívio Vilela , Paiva Alan Rodrigues de Almeida , Quadros Patrícia Ribeiro , Ferreira Nádia Sachie Koyama , Almeida Tatiane Soares de , Santos Nicolly Carla Machado
Published: October 2021

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess the association between anemia and nutritional aspects in adolescent athletes from a large sport club. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study, involving 298 athletes aged between 10 and 17 years, submitted to measurement of skin folds, weight and height, and collection of capillary blood in duplicate to determine hemoglobin values. It was carried out in a random sample composed of athletes from eight sport modalities. Results: Regarding nutritional status, 10.1% of athletes were overweight based on body mass index and 70 (23.5%) athletes had a percentage of body fat classified as high or very high. The prevalence of anemia was 16.4%, being more prevalent in judo (37.1%), basketball (34%) and futsal (20.5%) athletes. Low hemoglobin levels were significantly associated with shorter stature (p=0.006). Conclusions: There was a significant association between anemia and short stature, suggesting that the athlete's height-weight development may be affected in suboptimal conditions of oxygen distribution.
Evaluation of sleep characteristics of children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Silva Renata Aparecida e , Ganen Aline De Piano , Fernandes Vânia de Fátima Tonetto , Evangelista Nara Michelle de Araújo , Figueiredo Carolina Costa , Pacheco Luciana de Aguiar , Colares Neto Guido de Paula
Published: October 2021

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate sleep characteristics of children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and their relationship with glycemic control. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at a public hospital in São Paulo, Brazil. It included 86 patients with T1DM, aged between 10 and 18 years old, who were on insulin therapy, had performed at least three measurements of capillary blood glucose throughout the day, and had normal thyroid function. The clinical, anthropometric, and laboratory data of each patient were evaluated. The Pediatric Daytime Sleepiness Scale (PDSS) and the Munich Chronotype Questionnaire (MCTQ) were used to assess the sleep characteristics. Results: The mean level of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) was 9.2±2.1%, and it was higher in adolescents than in children. The mean score of PDSS was 13.9±4.7. Patients with HbA1c<7.5% had lower PDSS scores and longer sleep duration on weekdays than patients with HbA1c≥7.5%. HbA1c levels were negatively correlated with chronotype values and sleep duration on weekdays and positively correlated with social jet lag. Patients who had had T1DM for less than three years had a higher prevalence of daytime sleepiness. The regression analysis showed that higher HbA1c (≥7.5%) and shorter time since the diagnosis of T1DM increased the chance of daytime sleepiness, regardless of age and sex. Conclusions: Patients with higher HbA1c had more daytime sleepiness, a morning chronotype, shorter sleep duration on weekdays and a more significant social jet lag. The shorter diagnosis time for T1DM and greater levels of HbA1c increased the chance of daytime sleepiness.
High waist-to-height ratio and associated factors in adolescents from a city in Southern Brazil: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Bim Mateus Augusto , Pinto André de Araújo , Claumann Gaia Salvador , Pelegrini Andreia
Published: October 2021

ABSTRACT Objective: To verify the prevalence of abdominal obesity with the waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) and associated factors in adolescents from a city in Southern Brazil. Methods: A total of 960 adolescents (494 boys) aged 15–18 years old participated in this study. The dependent variable was WHtR; independent variables were self-reported age, economic level, sexual maturation, physical activity level, screen time, and body fat. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression. Results: It was observed that 36.7% of the adolescents presented high WHtR (50.2% in girls and 23.9% in boys). Regardless of sex, adolescents with high body fat were more likely of having high WHtR (boys: Odds Ratio [OR] 29.79; 95% confidence interval [95%CI] 16.87–52.62; girls: OR 19.43; 95%CI 10.51–35.94). In girls, high WHtR was associated with age (OR 1.83; 95%CI 1.17–2.87), and in boys, with economic level (OR 2.34; 95%CI 1.01–5.45). Conclusions: One in each three adolescents has abdominal obesity. Among adolescents with high body fat, girls aged 15–16 and boys with high-income are the groups most exposed to abdominal obesity.
Oficina musical participativa para o Bem-Estar Subjetivo e Psicológico de usuários em internação psiquiátrica
Authors: Cassola Eduardo Gabriel , Santos Márcia Caroline dos , Molck Bárbara Vukomanovic , Silva João Vitor Pereira da , Domingos Thiago da Silva , Barbosa Guilherme Correa
Published: October 2021

Resumo Objetivo identificar as contribuições de uma intervenção musical participativa sobre o Bem-Estar Psicológico e Subjetivo na assistência da enfermagem de usuários com transtorno mental grave e persistente durante a internação. Método pesquisa quase-experimental, do tipo antes e depois, realizada em uma instituição hospitalar do estado de São Paulo. Dez usuários em internação psiquiátrica participaram das quatro oficinas musicais. O repertório atendeu às suas preferências e foram distribuídos instrumentos musicais para promover a participação. Aplicou-se a escala de Bem-Estar Psicológico e dos Afetos Positivos e Negativos ao início e ao término de cada oficina. Os dados foram analisados considerando Intervalo de Confiança de 95%. Resultados não foram identificadas diferenças estatísticas entre os valores encontrados antes e depois das oficinas musicais para as variáveis do Bem-Estar e Afetos Positivos e Negativos. Os desfechos do Bem-Estar Subjetivo foram mais lineares quando comparados ao Bem-Estar Psicológico, observando-se aumento nos afetos positivos e diminuição dos afetos negativos. Conclusão e implicações para a prática a oficina musical participativa favorece o bem-estar subjetivo de usuários com transtornos mentais graves e persistentes. Essa intervenção correspondeu a uma tecnologia leve potencial para a enfermagem atuar de modo autônomo e qualificado no cuidado psicoemocional do usuário na internação psiquiátrica.
CALIDAD DE LA EDUCACIÓN Y EL ORIENTADOR EDUCACIONAL
Authors: Fernández Beatriz Barrero , Segovia Jesús Domingo , Gálvez Juan de Dios Fernández
Published: October 2021

RESUMEN El artículo aborda el tema del impacto del asesoramiento y el liderazgo intermedio en la mejora educativa de un contexto escolar. Se focaliza en el desempeño profesional de los servicios de apoyo escolar desde su posición estratégica como agentes de mejora y colegas críticos y desde modelos de conexión y colaborativos. Presenta un estudio de caso en una zona educativa que va mejorando significativamente. Se analiza el desempeño profesional de un líder intermedio a partir de la opinión de los interlocutores con los que trabaja. El estudio se desarrolló a lo largo de cuatro cursos académicos. Utiliza grupos de discusión y entrevistas en profundidad. Concluye que la asesoría colaborativa es posible y es valorada positivamente; y que el orientador tiene un rol relevante como líder intermedio.
Effect of reinforcement stiffness on response of back-to-back MSE wall upon infiltration
Authors: Rajagopal G. , Thiyyakkandi S.
Published: October 2021

Back-to-back mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) walls are being widely utilized as bridge abutments and highway ramps, considering their cost effectiveness and ease of construction. Though high quality well-graded granular fill is the most appropriate backfill material, owing to its scarcity, locally available low-quality soils are often used as backfill. Nevertheless, numerous failure cases of such walls with low-quality soil are reported, especially subsequent to rainwater infiltration. The stiffness of reinforcement is a key parameter affecting the overall behaviour of MSE walls. The present study investigates the influence of reinforcement stiffness on the response of select fill, marginal fill, and hybrid-fill back-to-back MSE walls using a finite element (FE) based approach. Results show that stiffness of reinforcement has a significant effect on the overall performance of marginal fill wall upon rainfall infiltration. Specifically, with the increase of reinforcement stiffness, the infiltration-induced facing displacement decreases and reinforcement tension increases. However, the performance of select fill and hybrid-fill walls following rainfall infiltration was found to be satisfactory even with low stiffness reinforcements, and further improvement with increase of reinforcement stiffness was insignificant. The reduction of safety factors during infiltration was shown to be independent of reinforcement stiffness for all wall types.
On the fundamental nature of the state parameter
Authors: Jefferies Michael
Published: October 2021

The state parameter ψ is widely used for soil characterisation and as a controlling parameter in modern constitutive understanding of soil, but there remains a perception that the control of soil strength by ψ is merely that of a correlation. This perception possibly stems from ψ having been introduced from ‘principles’ of critical state theory rather than derived, which is now rectified. It is shown that the control of limiting dilatancy by the state parameter (and thus soil strength through stress–dilatancy) is a formal mathematical consequence of Casagrande's canonical characterisation linking void ratio to soil constitutive behaviour. This formal consequence is independent of soil type, being applicable across the spectrum from clays to sands. Three dimensionless and familiar soil properties are involved in addition to those characterising the critical state locus: Mtc, N and X. The framework is kinematic, with no constitutive model: it is a constraint on models. Example data are shown for sands, silts and clays to illustrate the independence of the theory from geological descriptors.
Yurt Dışındaki İki Dilli Türk Öğrencilere Yönelik Miras Dil Konuşma Kaygısı Ölçeği
Authors: ERGÜT Selçuk Emre , BAŞ Bayram
Published: October 2021

Bu çalışma, Türkçeyi miras dil olarak öğrenen öğrencilerin sınıf içi ve sınıf dışı konuşma kaygılarına yönelik geçerli ve güvenilir bir ölçek geliştirmeyi amaçlamaktadır. Literatür taraması, madde havuzunun oluşturulması, uzman görüşlerinin alınması ve ön deneme aşamalarından sonra çalışma Almanya’da Türkçe ve Türk Kültürü (TTK) derslerine devam eden 260 iki dilli Türk öğrenciyle gerçekleştirilmiştir. Keşfedici faktör analizi sonucunda sınıf dışı konuşma kaygısı, sınıf içi konuşma kaygısı ve konuşmada rahatlık faktörlerinden oluşan 22 maddelik 3 faktörlü bir yapıya ulaşılmıştır. Ölçeğin tamamı ve alt boyutları için Cronbach’s Alfa katsayılarının ,803 ile ,923 ve Pearson korelasyon katsayılarının ,337 ile ,911 arasında; madde toplam korelasyonlarının ise ,346 ile ,739 arasında değiştiği görülmüştür. Son olarak doğrulayıcı faktör analizi (DFA) kapsamında incelenen model uyum indeksleri ölçeğin kabul edilebilir düzeyde uyumlu olduğunu göstermiştir. DFA sonucunda standartlaştırılmış faktör yüklerinin ,558 ile ,888 arasında ve kompozit güvenilirlik (CR) değerlerinin ,7’nin üzerinde olduğu görülmüştür. Tüm analizler neticesinde ilgili ölçeğin geçerli ve güvenilir olduğuna ulaşılmıştır.
Epidemiological investigation reveals local transmission of SARS-CoV-2 lineage P.1 in Southern Brazil
Authors: Salvato Richard Steiner , Gregianini Tatiana Schäffer , Campos Aline Alves Scarpellini , Crescente Lara Villanova , Vallandro Marcelo Jostmeier , Ranieri Tani Maria Schilling , Vizeu Sabrina , Martins Letícia Garay , Da Silva Eduardo Viegas , Pedroso Ellen Regina , Burille Andreia , Baethgen Ludmila Fiorenzano , Schiefelbein Sun Hee , Machado Taís Raquel Marcon , Becker Irina Marieta , Ramos Raquel , Piazza Cláudia Fasolo , Nunes Zenaida Marion Alves , Bastos Cynthia Goulart Molina Bastos
Published: October 2021

Since its detection in December of 2020, the SARS-CoV2 lineage P.1, descendent of B.1.1.28 lineage, has been identified in several places in Brazil and abroad. This Variant of Concern was considered highly prevalent in Northern Brazil and now is rapidly widening its geographical range. Here, we present epidemiological and genomic information of the first case of P1 lineage in Rio Grande do Sul state, in a patient with no reported travel history and a tracked transmission chain. These findings occurred in a tourist destination representing an important hub receiving tourists from diverse places.
Construction and validation of a preterm birth risk assessment model using fuzzy analytic hierarchy process
Authors: Barbounaki Stavroula , Sarantaki Antigoni
Published: October 2021

Preterm births account for almost 1 million deaths globally. The objective of this study is to develop and evaluate a model that assists clinicians in assessing the risk of preterm birth, using fuzzy multicriteria analysis. The model allows experts to incorporate their intuition and judgment into the decision-making process and takes into consideration six (6) risk dimensions reflecting the socio-economic, behavioural and medical profile of pregnant women, thus adopting a holistic approach to risk assessment. Each risk dimension is further analysed and measured in terms of risk factors associated with it. 

Data was collected from a selected group of 35 experts, each one with more than 20 years of obstetric experience. The model criteria were selected after a thorough literature analysis, so as to ensure a holistic approach to risk assessment. The criteria were reviewed by the experts and the model structure was finalised. The fuzzy analytic hierarchy method was applied to calculate the relative importance of each criterion and subsequent use of the model in assessing and ranking pregnant women by their preterm risk. The proposed model utilises fuzzy logic and multicriteria analysis. It addresses the multifactorial nature of decision making when assessing the preterm birth risk. It also incorporates the obstetricians’ intuitive judgement during risk assessment and it can be used to classify cases based upon their risk level. Additionally, it can be applied to evaluate the risk of individual cases in a personalised manner. The proposed model is compared and validated for its predictive value against judgments made by experts.
The Podiatrists in Australia: Investigating Graduate Employment (PAIGE) Study v1
Authors: Williams Cylie
Published: October 2021

The Podiatrists in Australia: Investigating Graduate Employment (PAIGE) study provides a systematic and rigorous evidence-base for rural podiatric workforce policy development, by developing a database modelled on the highly successful Medicine in Australia, Balancing Employment and Life (MABEL) longitudinal panel survey of Australian doctors. Analysis of data from waves 1 and 2 of this database, and concurrently collected qualitative data, address two key research questions about work location choice decisions and retention of podiatrists in location and the profession.
Chronic exposure to psychotropic medication and incidence of new-onset type 2 diabetes mellitus in young adults: a retrospective cohort from Colombia v1
Authors: Machado Alba Jorge
Published: October 2021

Background:Drug-induced diabetes is an increasingly important cause of diabetes mellitus worldwide. Certain psychotropic drugs may cause weight gain, but the long-term effect of this on the incidence of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is not clear. The objective was to assess the association between psychotropic drugs and new diagnosis T2DM. Methods: Retrospective cohort study using a prescription claims database. Adults 18-65 years old exposed (N=2,118) and unexposed (N=1,877) chronically to psychotropic drugs were followed between 2012-2016. Incidence rate ratio (IRR) and survival analysis were used to compare the occurrence of diabetic events (first prescription of drugs for the treatment of diabetes) among groups. Results:Patients were followed during 14,524 person-years. The cumulative incidence of T2DM was 3.6% in unexposed and 6.5% in exposed participants, with an IRR=1.875 (95%CI: 1.409–2.494). The IRR of T2DM was significantly higher for exposed in the first year of follow up (IRR=2.378, IC95%: 1.291–4.379) and second (IRR=2.009, 95%CI: 1.084–3.726) years of follow-up and for the entire follow up (IRR=1.661, IC95%: 1.240-2.225). Age group 45-64 years (HR=1.839, 95%CI: 1.281-2.640) compared to 18-44 years, and hypertension (HR=2.046, 95%CI: 1.388-3.017) were significant predictors of diabetic events. Conclusions:Chronic users of psychiatric drugs had a higher incidence of diabetic events than unexposed patients. Baseline risk factors of diabetes were the main predictors of the outcome, suggesting that risk assessment before and during treatment could mitigate the excessive risk of drug-induced diabetes.
Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) v4
Authors: Guo Shuning
Published: October 2021

This protocol is used to amplify target DNA fragment for plasmid construction or other use.
Precipitating Factors of Psoriasis in North Indian Population
Authors:   Consultant, Department of Skin & V.D., District Hospital Gazipur, Uttar Pradesh India, Bhaskar Dr. Kamlesh Kumar , Chawla Dr. Kavita ,   Professor of Physiology, MLNMC, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India, Beenu Dr. Beenu ,   Professor of Biochemistry, MLNMC, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India, Mishra Dr. Archana ,   Assistant Professor of Biochemistry, MLNMC, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India, Shukla Dr. Rakesh Kumar ,   Assistant Professor of Anatomy, ASMC, Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh, India
Published: October 2021

Aim: This study aims to study precipitating factors of psoriasis in the north Indian population.Material & Method:Two hundred twenty-eight psoriasis patients regardless of age, sex, religion,occupation, attending the skin, and V.D. outpatients Department, B.R.D. Medical College, Gorakhpurfor were taken because of the subject of this study. The bulk of patients belonged to the Eastern U.P.and adjoining areas of Bihar and Nepal. The clinical criteria for diagnosis of psoriasis were thepresence of Erythematous and papulosquamous lesions with loosely adherent silvery-white scales.The auspitz's sign was demonstrated all told the cases. The detailed clinical history and examinationwere recorded. Each patient was categorized into mild to severe psoriasis. Result: The maximumpercentage of cases was aggravated by weather (winter), 55.26%, next to that was trauma 27.19%, and least after infections 4.35%. The summer and spring seasons showed an improved effecton the condition of psoriasis. Alcohol, smoking, and mental stress found no relation with psoriasis.In most cases, where the infection was associated with the disease, it had been aggravated only inchildren, and young adults and lesions were of guttate type. Pregnancy had no effect in 25.43% ofcases, while the disease was improved in 3.50% of patients and worsen in 4.35% of cases.Conclusion: Psoriasis is positively correlated with the winter season and negatively associated withSummer and Spring.
BUILDING DIGILAB – TOWARDS A DATA-DRIVEN RESEARCH IN CULTURAL HERITAGE
Authors:   Cyprus Institute, Hermon Sorin
Published: October 2021

E-RIHS – The European Research Infrastructure on Heritage Science, aims at providing new knowledge on the research, conservation and restoration of works of art, heritage assets, monuments and sites. As such, the target of its scientific investigation (paintings, sculptures, manuscripts, frescoes, icons, archaeological artefacts, building facades, architectural remains or heritage buildings, coins or ancient musical instruments, just to name a few) are stored in the hundreds of museums, art galleries, private collections and various other institutions, scattered all over Europe.
Berita Pakatan Harapan: Analisis Terhadap Tingkah Laku Pengguna Media Sosial
Authors:   Universiti Malaya, Paidi Rohayati , Hassan Asmadi ,   Universiti Malaya
Published: October 2021

Kemampuan media sosial dalam mempengaruhi kehidupan pengguna internet sememangnya tidak dapat disangkal lagi. Ciri-ciri yang terdapat pada aplikasi media sosial membolehkan pengguna berita memainkan peranan sebagai pengeluar bukan profesional. Situasi ini mendedahkan kepada kepincangan dari segi maklumat yang disebarkan kerana ia bergantung kepada kecenderungan tingkah laku pengguna. Sebagai contoh, semakin banyak pengguna berita menulis komen yang memihak kepada sesuatu bentuk pandangan, maka semakin tinggi kemungkinan bahawa persepsi umum akan terbina berdasarkan pandangan tersebut. Begitu juga dengan tajuk-tajuk berita yang dikongsikan di mana ia boleh dijadikan ukuran dalam menilai persepsi umum yang bakal terbina hasil kecenderungan tingkah laku pengguna yang berkongsi tajuk-tajuk berita berkenaan. Objektif kajian ini adalah untuk menganalisis tingkah laku pengguna media sosial, iaitu Facebook, terhadap berita berkaitan Pakatan Harapan (PH) yang dilaporkan oleh Sinar Harian menjelang setahun pemerintahannya. Tingkah laku pengguna diukur berdasarkan bilangan komen yang ditulis, bilangan perkongsian berita yang dilakukan serta bilangan reaksi emoji yang ditunjukkan. Kajian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif yang mengaplikasikan kaedah analisis kandungan. Teori penentuan agenda digunakan dalam menghuraikan analisis kajian. Dapatan kajian ini menunjukkan bahawa, walaupun pihak media profesional memilih untuk menyiarkan tajuk berita dari pelbagai kecenderungan, namun pengguna media sosial lebih berminat untuk meningkatkan akses terhadap tajuk berita yang berkecenderungan berat sebelah. Justeru, kajian ini menyimpulkan bahawa, adalah tidak wajar untuk bergantung kepada maklumat yang tersebar di media sosial semata-mata dalam membina persepsi terhadap sesuatu perkara. Kata kunci: Media sosial, tingkah laku pengguna berita, Pakatan Harapan, penentuan agenda, persepsi umum.
Islamic Values in Environmental Communication within the Malaysian Media: A Case Study of Utusan Malaysia and Berita Harian
Authors:   Universiti Sains Malaysia, Mohamad Saleh Mohamad Saifudin , Adi Kasuma Shaidatul Akma ,   Universiti Sains Malaysia, Zuknik Mark Harris ,   Universiti Sains Malaysia, Nik Hasan Nik Norma ,   Universiti Sains Malaysia
Published: October 2021

We argue that environmental communication within the Malaysian media landscape is influenced by Islamic beliefs and teachings. Although Islam has a great influence on environmental communication in Malaysia, it is an area underexplored by past studies. We conducted a content analysis on two mainstream Malay media outlets, namely Utusan Malaysia and Berita Harian, for a six-year period (2012-2017) in order to investigate the types of Islamic values which were represented in the environmental articles published by both newspapers. We also conducted interviews with 11 journalists from both newspapers to determine the purpose of using Islamic values in environmental articles. The result of content analysis discovered that tawhid (unity of God) is the most common Islamic value used in Utusan Malaysia’s environmental articles, while in Berita Harian, iman (faith) is the value which most commonly appears. In the interviews, journalists from Utusan Malaysia described that the value of tawhid is used the most in the environmental articles as it is one of the core values in Islam, while the journalists from Berita Harian explained that iman has been used the most as this value is an intrinsic part of the readers’ lives. However, most of the interviewees stated that the main challenge for them came from the need of the journalists themselves to have a great understanding of both Islam and environment. It is hoped that the findings of this study could serve as a reference for future research in the area of Islamic environmental communication. Keywords: Environmental communication, Islam, media, value, Malaysia.
Pencitraan Polemik Ekonomi Orang Melayu dalam Filem Abang
Authors:   Universiti Teknologi Mara, Hamzah Siti Normala
Published: October 2021

Artikel ini membicarakan isu dan polemik ekonomi masyarakat Melayu yang diangkat sebagai subjek dalam filem Abang (1981) arahan sutradara Rahim Razali. Secara umumnya orang Melayu mengalami perubahan dalam ekonomi yang ketara apabila kerajaan Malaysia mewujudkan Dasar Ekonomi Baru (DEB)pada tahun 1971 melalui Rancangan Malaysia kedua (RMK-2). Pembentukan dasar ini bertujuan untuk mewujudkan keseimbangan sosioekonomi kepada semua rakyat serta membentuk perpaduan antara kaum. Pelaksanaan DEB ini banyak membuka ruang kepada orang Melayu untuk mengambil peluang daripada pertumbuhan ekonomi negara yang pesat ketika itu namun secara tidak langsung transformasi ini juga telah mencetuskan konflik dan polemik baharu dalam kalangan orang Melayu. Filem yang dibuat selepas 10 tahun dasar baru ini dilancarkan secara dasarnya merupakan kritik sosial Rahim Razali terhadap masyarakat Melayu dalam era 80-an terutamanya yang berkaitan dengan jati diri serta cabaran semasa dalam menjunjung adat dan budaya bangsa. Kesemua pencitraan polemik ekonomi Orang Melayu telah diterjemahkan melalui watak-watak keluarga Dato’ Din manakala watak-watak orang kampung pula merupakan representasi realisme masyarakat Melayu yang tidak terkesan dengan transformasi ekonomi ini. Kajian ini menggunakan kaedah kualitatif iaitu dengan menganalisis teks sebagai kaedah kajian utama dan temubual serta pengumpulan data sekunder sebagai pendekatan tambahan. Pendekatan sosiologi sastera (Hippolyte Taine) juga digunakan untuk menganalisis hubungan langsung antara filem dengan zaman, ras dan milieunya. Kata kunci: Ekonomi, Dasar Ekonomi Baru (DEB), filem Rahim Razali, isu Melayu, jati diri.
Pengalaman Adaptasi Silang Budaya Pembantu Rumah Indonesia (PRI) di Malaysia
Authors:   Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Saad Faridah , Ahmad Abdul Latiff ,   Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia
Published: October 2021

Kajian ini adalah bertujuan meneroka pengalaman adaptasi silang budaya pembantu rumah Indonesia (PRI) semasa bekerja di Malaysia. Pembantu rumah Indonesia di Malaysia memiliki kehidupan yang sangat berbeza dengan pembantu rumah di negara lain yang mana mereka diberi cuti, mempunyai masa dan waktu meneroka budaya tuan rumah. Maka kajian ini membincangkan satu perspektif dari sudut pandang PRI tentang cabaran dan halangan semasa beradaptasi di Malaysia. Objektif kajian ini adalah untuk mengenal pasti jangka masa dalam proses adaptasi (fasa awal), melihat masalah dan cabaran yang dihadapi pembantu rumah Indonesia semasa proses mengadaptasi budaya negara baharu. Kajian literatur menunjukkan adaptasi budaya dalam kalangan pekerja asing mempunyai pelbagai masalah dan cabaran yang berbeza bagi setiap individu. Kajian ini berpandukan Teori Adaptasi Silang Budaya oleh Kim Young-Yun (2001) yang memberi penelitian dan penjelasan terhadap adaptasi individu untuk menyesuaikan diri dengan situasi budaya yang baharu. Hasil temu bual mendalam terhadap tujuh pembantu rumah Indonesia yang bekerja di Malaysia sekitar kawasan Lembah Klang mendapati mereka mengalami kejutan budaya pada fasa awal sampai di Malaysia kerana masalah bahasa, pemakanan, tertekan, kesunyian dan rindukan kampung halaman serta turut menemui cabaran dalam mempraktikkan agama, etnosentrisme dan timbulnya persepsi awal dalam diri pembantu rumah terhadap perjalanan kedatangan mereka ke Malaysia. Kajian turut mendapati motivasi diri yang tinggi dan peranan masa menjadikan pembantu rumah Indonesia berjaya bertahan untuk bekerja dan menerima budaya baharu seterusnya berjaya mengadaptasi persekitaran baharu dengan mengaplikasinya dalam kehidupan seharian. Penyelidikan ini menyumbang kepada perspektif budaya kerja PRI dalam konteks dimensi silang budaya. Kata kunci: Komunikasi, silang budaya, adaptasi, kejutan budaya, pembantu rumah Indonesia.
Risk Communication and the Prevention of COVID-19 Transmission in Dangerous Zones, Jabota
Authors:   Institut Bisnis dan Informatika Kwik Kian Gie, Indonesia, Nuraryo Imam
Published: October 2021

Until the beginning of June 2020, the COVID-19 virus has spread to more than 215 countries, infected more than 6 million people and killed more than 300,000 people in the world. This causes public panic and misperceptions about COVID-19. Under circumstances like this, risk communication is needed to control and mitigate information about this plague to reduce the spread of this disease and manage public fear. The main objective of this study is to assess COVID-19 information searching behaviour and explore how risk communication is associated with personal hygiene habits in preventing transmission of COVID-19 in dangerous zones. This study was conducted among a community of educators in Jakarta, Bogor, and Tangerang, Indonesia. Questionnaires were distributed to 132 respondents, consisting of lecturers and teachers who are living in the red zone area. The results showed that there was no relationship between the perception of risk communication, both on personal hygiene habits and prevention of COVID-19 transmission. This can be attributed to two possibilities. Firstly, the risk communication message strategy is seen as irrelevant to people’s personal hygiene habits and prevention of COVID-19 transmission. Secondly, personal hygiene habits and prevention of COVID-19 transmission are not influenced by risk communication from the government and at media level. Keywords: Risk communication, prevention, COVID-19, transmission, dangerous zones.