bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the Wind Potential and Optimal Design of a Wind Farm in The Arzew Industrial Zone in Western Algeria
Authors: Marih Salah , Ghomri Leila , Bekkouche Benaissa
Published: May 2020

This work presents an assessment of the wind potential and a design methodology for a 10 MW wind farm in the Arzew industrial region, located in northwest Algeria, to improve the quality of service of the electricity grid and increase Algeria's participation in the use of renewable energy. The hourly wind data of 10 years (2005-2015) that correspond to the wind potential of the site were analyzed, such as: dominant wind directions, probability distribution, Weibull parameters, mean wind speed and power potential. The site has a mean annual wind speed of 4.46 m/s at 10m height, and enough space to locate the wind turbines. A comparative study was carried out between four wind turbine technologies to improve the site's efficiency and select the appropriate technology: PowerWind 56/ 900 kW, Nordex N50/800 kW, Vestas V50/850 kW, NEG-Micon 44/750 kW. The estimate of the energy produced using WAsP software and the choice of the optimal architectural configuration for wind turbines installation was confirmed. A techno-economic and environmental study was carried out by HOMER software, to choose the model that produces the maximum annual net energy with a competitive cost in the global wind energy market, $ 0.068/kWh, and that provides clean energy with a reduced emission of polluting gases. Finally, this work provides a good indicator for the construction of a wind farm in Arzew.
History And Moral Education In Nation Building: A Discourse On The Nigeria’s Broken Systems
Authors: Abdulrahman Yusuf Maigida
Published: May 2020

Systems are fast collapsing in Nigeria, including education. The good old days of the country were devoid of all the negativities of today. Studies have shown that a number of forces and causes were responsible for where the country has come to find herself. However, to be historical is sine-qua-non to retracing our bearing and recognizing education as a potent instrument for a morally upright society. The connection between history and moral education was chronicled, with clear focus on the place of history and moral education from the retrospective standpoints; capturing colonial and post-colonial characteristics. Ugly state of affairs in Nigeria and ways of addressing the situations were highlighted, for nation building. Character training and promotion of right type of values recommended.
Technological Spillover, Growth Convergence And Technical Progress: Does technology flow from rich to poor economies?
Authors: Aluko Oladele O , Sani B. Sabiu
Published: May 2020

This study examines Technology spillover from rich to poor countries, the study used a model that, at the aggregate level, is similar to the one sector neoclassical growth model. The model was estimated using data on technical progress, Average Product Per-Worker, Capital Stock and Technology Intensive Goods in 25 countries which consist of rich and poor countries over the last decade. A dynamic panel model is formulated and estimated Using Generalized method of moments by Arelano and Bond; and the implications of the estimates were evaluated for aggregate total factor productivity and economic growth. The results reveal that, on average, technology have contributed more to economic growth in high income economies and on the contrary technology have made little or no contribution in low income countries. Consequently, there is substantial variation across technologies and economies
DEVELOPMENT OF E-HEALTH IN AUSTRIA, BULGARIA, CROATIA, ESTONIA AND SLOVAKIA
Authors: Georgiev Angel
Published: May 2020

Electronic health services (e-Health) are now a fixed element of the health care system and cover a wide range of applications, such as the electronic health insurance card, the health record and an overview of medications, plus telemedicine. A prerequisite for this is the secure transmission of medical data for preventive medicine, diagnosis, treatment and the ongoing support of patients in the form of text, sound recordings and/or images.

Uneven development of eHealth solutions within the EU27 remains a major obstacle in providing European citizens with a satisfying access to cross-border healthcare and the main challenge for the EU is harmonizing the systems. The slow shift of the paradigm centralizing the role of the patient will become more rapid making our assumptions about the savings thanks to the technology even more conservative than they are. Building on the trust that Europeans have in health institutions and the way they convey themselves is essential.
National Elections and Political Apathy: A Comparative Study of Voter Turnout in the 2019 General Elections of Nigeria and South Africa
Authors: Nweke Kenneth , Etido-Inyang Eunice
Published: May 2020

This research examines the impact of political apathy on electoral participation in Nigeria and South Africa in the 2019 general elections. The paper determined the causes of political apathy, its impact on the electoral process as well as its trend (voter turnout) in the general elections of 2019 in Nigeria and South. This research was borne out of the need to address the increasing rate of political apathy, especially voter turnout in both democratic nations. The research argued that the causes of political apathy, particularly poor voter turnout in the two countries are attributable to political marginalisation, corruption, lack of trust in the electoral process, political violence and militarisation of the electoral system. The research further found that there is no significant difference in the nature and trend of the political apathy (voter turnout) in both countries. The Rational Choice Theory (Downs, 1957) and the Democratic Deprivation Theory (Ebenezer, 2017) were used to theoretically justify the potentials of political apathy in undermining democratic participation. This study used descriptive research design to determine the impact of political apathy on the 2019 national elections in both countries. Trends and nature of political apathy, particularly voter turnout in the two countries were ascertained using secondary data and the analysis was based on content analysis in view of the historical trends and nature of the research. The research concluded that there is an obvious decline in political participation in both countries due to lack of trust in the electoral process, among others, which has largely undermined the interest of the electorate in the political systems of both countries. This research, therefore, recommends that political elite in both countries should be transparent, honest, responsible and responsive in order to encourage voter turnout in both countries at future national elections. A free, fair and credible electoral process, the study also recommended, would help rebuild citizens’ confidence in both countries’ electoral processes.
Factors Affecting Respondents’ Participation in Farmers Field Schools in Khartoum State, Sudan
Authors: Bello Abdel Raouf Suleiman
Published: May 2020

This study was conducted to determine the socioeconomic factors influencing farmer participation in the Farmer Field Schools (FFS) program in Bahari Locality of Kharoum State, Sudan. Eighty farmers were selected randomly and interviewed for this study where Frequency distribution and multiple regressions were used to analyze the data. The study findings indicate that more than 95.0% of respondents were economically active, 88.7% had formal education, 83.0% managed their own farm and 86.3% were currently married. Multiple regressions revealed that the level of participation in FFS was significantly associated with education, farm ownership, farm size, and the period of residency. In addition, the data showed that the level of application of received agricultural innovations was significantly associated with education level, farm ownership, farm size, and total income. The study recommended some interventions to improve and develop the practices and approach of the FFS approach.
Registration and promotion of monumental olive trees in Greece.
Authors: Koniditsiotis Stavros
Published: May 2020

The history of the olive tree, its cultivation and its products is known for centuries. Some olive tree have survived over millennia and their history dates back to antiquity. In many cases, it is related to mythology and religion. The olive tree is associated with folk tradition, people's everyday life, and customs. In Greece, monumental olive trees are found in the Peloponnese, Crete, Euboea, Chios, Pelion and Attica.  This paper explores and describes the particular morphological features such as shape, size, wood, cavities and age, as well as the cultural characteristics such as historical or religious events, myths and traditions that define an olive tree and characterize it as monumental. The main aim of our research is to examine the key position that monumental olive trees and their materialistic and symbolic manifestations consist a natural and cultural heritage as well. In this framework the study focuses on various key issues related to monumental olives trees and their natural, historical, social and cultural value.
Perceptions of government stakeholders on ageing and assisted care in the Cape Coast Municipal Area
Authors: Aboh Irene
Published: May 2020

Aim:  To explore the perceptions of government stakeholders on assisted care for the aged in a Metropolis, in Ghana.

Method: This is a qualitative sub-study of a larger study on developing a model for the care of the aged in the Cape Coast Metropolitan area.  The following questions were put to the key informants: Have you noticed an increase in the number of the aged in the communities? What are government plans for the aged? How is the welfare and the caring from traditional attention, what is your view on the introduction of assisted care in Ghana? Data was collected through key-informant in-depth interviews with 10 government stakeholders directly in charge of policy implementation in the metropolis. Data collection took place over a period of four months from October 2016 to January 2107. The interviews were digitally recorded and transcribed verbatim, coded and analyzed.

Findings: There were no preparations made for ageing, the government had plans and strategies for aged care. Traditional caring provision is inadequate and the concept of assisted living is regarded with mixed feelings. Some informant described assisted caring as an unaccepted practise that should not be encouraged.

Conclusion: Those implementing the policies are not certain of the feasibility of the programme. Awareness of assisted living should be promoted so that the community can make their own decisions.
Impact of Public Spending on the Quality of Life in Rural Bangladesh
Authors: Fardoush Zannatul
Published: May 2020

Public spending is one of the most effective instruments in improving the quality of life as an entrenched goal of economic development. However, as the resources are limited, a better distribution would, therefore, require a thorough investigation regarding the impact analysis of public spending on actual development factors. This paper has examined the link between public expenditures in different sectors of economy and improvement in the quality of life through the channel of agricultural growth or rural development in Bangladesh and also throughs the education channel such as the school enrollments. A simultaneous equation model in the form of a 3-Stage Least Square (3SLS) technique has been used to explore the impacts of public spending. By using the data from 1982-2017, this study finds that public spending in education, health, social safety net, and agriculture has positive impacts on the quality of life advancement. A 1 percent increase in public spending in education would result in an increase in quality of life (proxied by life expectancy) by 0.182 percent on average, ceteris paribus. The public expenditure elasticities in health, social safety net, and agriculture on the quality of life are found as 0.05, 0.03, 0.04 respectively. The only concern is the spending in the transportation and communication sector which is probably due to the misallocation and mismanagement of available resources and funds into this sector. Hence, to grasp the agricultural and rural development, the government should continue to institutionalize the policies that support the education of the poor in rural areas.
The THE CONSEQUENCE OF INTERNATIONAL LAW OF CHILDREN APPOINTMENT IN INDONESIA
Authors: Panjaitan Hulman
Published: May 2020

The adoption of children is nothing new in Indonesian society, including the adoption of international children, more specifically the adoption of children carried out by foreign citizens of Indonesian citizens. In practice, international appointments cause many legal problems, especially those related to the legal consequences. In this study normative juridical legal research methods are used with qualitative data analysis, which analyzes the data of the brother through existing legal materials based on applicable laws and regulations. At least as a result of international child adoption law, relating to aspects of citizenship, marriage guardianship and inheritance.
Urban overspill and its upshot to the Bafoussam Emergent Metropolis in Cameroon
Authors: Tende Renz Tichafogwe , Kengmoe Emmanuel Tchouongsi
Published: May 2020

Unbridled urban sprawl in Sub-Saharan African cities reflects an infirmity that warrants both vaccination and treatment to curb urban disorder and its costs. This article divulges that rapid population growth, spatial expansion and economic activities are responsible for the urban overspill and its upshot in Bafoussam. Unplanned settlement from the rapid growing population has led to the development of slumps and reduction of arable land. A multi-spectral Landsat satellite imagery of 1988, 2001 and 2016 was used to determine the spatial expansion of the town over a period of 30 years. Field observation and interview sessions were done to have information on the proliferation of economic activities to the expansion of the town. An in-depth secondary data collection was done to gather information on the rate of population growth of Bafoussam. The data was processed to generate maps through the ArcGIS 10.4 and Adobe Illustrator CS soft wares and tables through SPSS 17 for results and analyses. Results from findings propound a significant increase in the built-up area of Bafoussam of 19.34% in 1988, 50.30% in 2001 and 79.41% in 2016. This increase was accompanied by a drop in the vegetation of 78.64% in 1988, 48.50% in 2001 and 20.07% in 2016. The built-up increase was provoked by a persistent rise in the population of the city from 62, 239 inhabitants in 1976 to 112,681 in 1987 and 282,800 in 2010. Industrial and commercial activities developed in the course of the twin increase and unfortunately with no control triggered urban disorder. This article advocates for a mandatory implementation of the urban norms in Cameroon to liberate Bafoussam from the drowning overspill syndrome plaguing Sub-Saharan cities.
A LEGALITY OF AGENT/DISTRIBUTOR ACTIVITIES IN THE PERSPECTIVE OF CIVIL LAW
Authors: Nainggolan Bernard
Published: May 2020

Agency/distributorship is a marketing tool in an economic system that is felt to be effective and efficient in relation to marketing networks. Normally, the regulation of agent and distributor activities has not been regulated in a specific formal law but is spread in various laws and regulations at the level of Regulations or Ministerial Decrees which do not specifically regulate agency or distributor activities. From the perspective of civil law, the validity of agency and distributor activities is based on Article 1338 of the Commercial Law Book. as the principle of freedom of contract which regulates the rights and obligations of parties in an agency/distributor agreement, namely between a business actor or principal and an agent or distributor.
The Health and Well-being of Low Paying Jobs in Southern Africa: Case Study of Security Guards in Zambia
Authors: Tayali Esnart Mwaba , Sakyi Kwesi Atta
Published: May 2020

As concerns for employee well-being across all sectors increase, security guards in Southern Africa and the rest of Africa at large attract less attention in human resource management. Well-being is pivotal for positive psychological feeling of workers, and also conducive for economic growth.  Employee well-being has positive effects on company performance, profitability and growth.  Therefore, employee well-being is a cardinal factor across the globe. Security guards, like any other employees, deserve decent conditions of service, which promote their overall well-being. Youths who lack sufficient funds to pursue tertiary education in universities end up undertaking the most affordable short courses in order to see them through employment, as they are desperate for incomes to sustain themselves and families.  The commonest affordable short courses in Southern Africa include those found in jobs such as security guards, carpentry, tailoring, and cookery.  Amongst the most affordable short courses, youths prefer security guard training due to its high job market demand.  The health, safety, and quality of the physical environment, as well as the low subsistence wages for Security guards leave much to be desired.  The labour standards of security guards in Africa are unthinkable, unsatisfactory and atrocious.  This study aims at introducing essential recommendations in order to improve the well-being of security guards in southern Africa. The paper adopted a qualitative research approach by gathering information from security guards working in five different security firms in Zambia.
Supporting Learners in a Time of Crisis
Authors: Carver Lin B
Published: May 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on children’s education. Because of school closures, instruction has moved online. This move to digital learning has brought with it significant barriers and challenges as evidenced by news articles and observations from teachers and students. Administrators, teachers, guidance counselors, lunch workers, business partners, and volunteers are banding together to meet the needs of students in this time of crisis.
Make America Great Again in Science: A Guide for All Sovereign Nations
Authors: Herndon J. Marvin
Published: May 2020

U. S. President Donald J. Trump is leading America and the world against the elitist-globalist goal of a One World Government. His efforts to free American entrepreneurs from unwarranted control by others are producing an economic renaissance. From a lifetime of first-hand knowledge and experience, I describe the problems that beset American science, and posit solutions for producing the cutting-edge science that Trump’s economic renaissance requires.
Criteria for rapidly incorporating online instruction into traditionally in-person programs: a case study
Authors: Samsa Greg , Grambow Steven
Published: May 2020

Given the continuing uncertainty about the COCID-19 pandemic, we are planning for the possibility that, in the upcoming semester, some or all of the content of a Master of Biostatistics program will be delivered online.  In order to help make this rollout as systematic as possible, we propose criteria which an effective online-enabled educational program should meet.  We will incorporate online instruction into our program when: (1) it is necessary and/or educationally beneficial; (2) it can be delivered with sufficient technical quality; (3) instructors have been trained to deliver it sufficiently well; (4) both content and delivery undergo regular review; and (5) policies are in place to support online instruction.

 

These criteria are not unique to graduate programs in biostatistics and, thus, we are presenting this short report and case study in the hope that it will be beneficial to others as they consider and/or prepare for transition to online instruction.
Knowledge Management in Libraries and Information Centers: A Bibliometric Perspective
Authors: Jain Priti
Published: May 2020

The purpose of this paper is to provide a bibliometric perspective of Knowledge Management (KM) literature in libraries for the past 21 years (1998-2019), based on Web of Science core collection bibliographical database. The objectives of the paper are to examine a bibliometric profile of publications in the field of KM in libraries and analyze the emerging research trends in KM research in libraries and information centers through Keyword co-occurrence.  This study used bibliometric and citation analysis methods to explore the profile and research trends in knowledge management research in libraries. A total of 83 sources were retrieved via Web of Science’s core collection database using the terms “Knowledge Management, Libraries, Information centers, librarians, information professionals”. Data was analyzed through Web of Science’s Clarivate Analytics, then exported to Microsoft Excel and VOSviewer for production of images and graphs. Findings revealed that the most research outputs were produced in year 2018 mostly in article forms and the University of South Africa led in contribution to knowledge management research in libraries.  Findings also determined top 10 prolific authors and publishing sources; most research were produced by United States, followed by South Africa.  As most KM research is carried out on perceptions, predictions and benefits of KM in libraries and information centers not on KM practice in libraries and its impact on the quality of library services. This has implication on KM practice in libraries and information centers. Practicing librarians are unable to apply KM emulating success stories and best practices of libraries and information centers.  Bibliometric studies on KM are too general, and to the best knowledge of the researcher, none of them so far gives a clear view of research trends of KM in libraries. Hence, this might be the first study to fill this gap, which only analyzed a sample of documents which are more relevant to the scope of the study.
Social And Cultural Predictors Of Tattooing Among Athletes Of Federal Universities In Nigeria
Authors: Ekenedo Golda
Published: May 2020

The cross-sectional study investigated the social and cultural predictors of tattooing among athletes of Federal Universities in Nigeria. Data was collected from a sample of 594 athletes using a validated structured questionnaire with a reliability index of 0.77. . Data collected were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21. Multiple regression and logistic regression were used to establish the joint and independent predictors of tattooing among the athletes. The findings of the study revealed that peer influence (P=0.003), family influence (P=0.000), personal achievement (P=0.006) and academic background (P=0.000) were significant social predictors of tattooing among the athletes. Traditional (P=0.000) and religious beliefs (P=0.000) were also found to be significant cultural predictors of tattooing among the athletes. It was concluded based on the findings that the practice of tattooing among Nigerian University athletes followed similar social influence pattern as in other parts of the world. Social marketing was recommended as a veritable tool for health education and communication to enhance informed decisions regarding tattooing among the athletes.
Global Environmental Warfare
Authors: Herndon J. Marvin , Whiteside Mark
Published: May 2020

Unlike traditional forms of warfare that cause environmental harm as collateral damage, today vast segments of biota-populations, including humans, are at risk from undeclared global environmental warfare, undertaken through deception and deceit, orchestrated by undisclosed perpetrators for undisclosed purposes. As we reveal here, the purported goal of preventing environmental warfare was the key to developing a means to co-opt sovereign nations into waging covert, highly destructive environmental warfare against their own citizens. The means involved deceiving leaders of sovereign nations into signing onto a deceptively-worded “Trojan horse” international treaty ostensibly to prohibit environmental warfare, but which specifically does not prohibit “peaceful” environmental modification where “environmental modification techniques” refers to any technique for changing – through the deliberate manipulation of natural processes – the dynamics, composition or structure of the Earth, including its biota, lithosphere, hydrosphere and atmosphere, or of outer space.” Moreover, that international treaty mandates contribution and co-operation in unspecified environmental modification, by unspecified entities, without specificity of risks to human and environmental health. Although “environmental modification techniques” are applied and conducted with secrecy and deception, the horrific environmental damage, ascertained by scientific forensic investigations and reviewed here, cannot possibly be considered “peaceful” but instead constitute global environmental warfare. Citizens everywhere must wake up, look up, speak up, and demand an end to this environmental warfare.
21ST Century Characteristics of Educators as Perceived by Laguna State Polytechnic University Faculty
Authors: Buenvinida Lerma P. , Rodriguez Maria Teresa M. , Sapin Sherwin B.
Published: May 2020

This descriptive research aimed to determine the level of perception of faculty of Laguna State Polytechnic University on the 21st century characteristics of educator.  Demographic profile of the respondent includes age, sex, status, educational attainment, academic rank, and years of service. The study identified six characteristics of 21st century educators such as adaptor, lifelong learner, technology savvy, collaborator, visionary, and leader. It was found out that the highest computed mean and standard deviation of 5.59 (0.13) was obtained from collaborator as one of the characteristics of educator and was interpreted as strongly agree. The faculty have developed and enhanced their knowledge and skills in teaching in order to adopt with the demands of 21st century learners. It is suggested that faculty members should continue to enhance their 21st century skills such as developing and applying new pedagogies in teaching and learning; and implementing design thinking and system thinking for educators.
Chemical senses: a context-based approach to chemistry teaching for lower secondary school students
Authors: Edelsztein Valeria C. , Tarzi Olga I. , Galagovsky Lydia
Published: May 2020

The Context-Based Science Education (CBSE) approach promotes the inclusion of scientific concepts in everyday situations. In this work, we present a non-traditional context-based teaching experience on the subject of chemical senses that seeks, through a unique didactic instrument, to generate cognitive conflicts in order to promote conceptual change from “common sense” to science-based ideas. This experience encourages the active role of the students and involves simple experiences with everyday materials. It was carried out with 95 students from 12 to 15 years old. The contents developed during the experience were focused on taste and smell and the concepts of perception and sensation. The activities were designed to promote students’ self-awareness on their previous knowledge in order to achieve a sustainable learning by constructing appropriate scientific concepts. Assessment of students’ motivation for learning and their conceptual change – from common sense ideas to science based ideas – was done through an initial survey and a post-test. Students’ perception on their commitment and enjoyment about the approach has been evaluated through a metacognitive poll. The results show that the activities were highly motivating and that students were aware of their improvement in knowledge and their own commitment to the task throughout the entire experience.
Organic chemistry lecture course and exercises based on true scale models
Authors: Lederle Felix , Hübner Eike G.
Published: May 2020

3D models of chemical structures are an important tool for chemistry lectures and exercises. Usually, simplified models based on standard bond length and angles are used. These models allow for a visualized discussion of (stereo)chemical aspects, but they do not represent the true spatial conditions. 3D-printing technologies facilitate the production of scale models. Several protocols describe the process from X-ray structures, calculated geometries or virtual molecules to printable files. In contrast, only a few examples describe the integration of scaled models in lecture courses. True bond angles and scaled bond lengths allow for a detailed discussion of the geometry and parameters derived therefrom, for example double bond character, aromaticity and many more. Here, we report a complete organic chemistry/stereochemistry lecture course and exercise based on a set of 37 scale models made from poly(lactic acid) as sustainable material. All models have been derived from X-ray structures and quantum chemical calculations. Consequently, the models reflect the true structure as close as possible. A fixed scaling factor of 1 : 1.8·108 has been applied to all models. Hands-on measuring of bond angles and bond length leads to an interactive course. The course has been evaluated with a very positive feedback.
Teaching introductory chemistry through world cultural heritage history
Authors: Horikoshi Ryo
Published: May 2020

The present article details a quiz-style lesson for teaching three introductory chemistry concepts: the cleavage of rock salt as well as the oxidation and malleability of metals, through the history of chosen world cultural heritage sites, including the Wieliczka Salt Mine, the Statue of Liberty, and the Golden Pavilion in Kyoto. The described lesson comprises three questions aimed at promoting critical thinking. The responses to the designed questions were made by the students working in groups. While revealing the correct answers, three simple demonstrations were conducted to entice the students and to enhance their understanding of the discussed chemical concepts. The lesson was favorably received by the students and helped them to relate relevant chemical concepts to real-world situations.
Clinical features, laboratory characteristics, and outcomes of patients hospitalized with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19): Early report from the United States
Authors: Aggarwal Saurabh , Garcia-Telles Nelson , Aggarwal Gaurav , Lavie Carl , Lippi Giuseppe , Henry Brandon Michael
Published: May 2020

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV2), is an ongoing pandemic that has already affected millions of patients worldwide, and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality burden. Although the clinical and laboratory characteristics of this illness have been reported in patients from China and Europe, data are scant in the United States.

Methods

We extracted data regarding all patients hospitalized at our hospital with COVID-19 infection between March 1 and April 4, 2020. Presenting signs and symptoms, laboratory and imaging findings, treatment, and complications were recorded from electronic medical records (EMRs). The primary composite endpoint was admission to intensive care unit (ICU), shock, or death.

Results

We had a total of 43 patients tested for COVID-19 at the emergency room (ER) or during hospitalization, 16 (37%) of whom were admitted with COVID-19 infection. The mean age was 65.5 years and 75% were males. The most common presenting symptoms were fever (94%), cough (88%), and dyspnea (81%). A loss of smell and taste sensations were reported by three (19%) patients. Low oxygen saturation was present in 38% of patients, whilst 31% were hypotensive on admission. Hyponatremia (50%), elevated C-reactive protein (CRP; 100%), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH; 80%) were common. Acute renal failure, myocardial injury, and elevation in aminotransferases occurred in 69%, 19%, and 38% patients, respectively. The primary composite endpoint occurred in 50% of patients. A total of three patients died; all were aged 70 years or older.

Conclusions

Laboratory abnormalities and acute renal failure were common in hospitalized patients with SARS-CoV2 infection in our center. Admission to ICU and mechanical ventilation were common.
Bacterial nanobiotic potential
Authors: Wagi Shabana , Ahmed Ambreen
Published: May 2020

Antibiotics are the chemicals responsible for killing pathogenic bacteria but inappropriate and extensive use of antibiotics is hazardous causing adverse impact on human health. Excessive use of antibiotics has led to the development of multiple-drug resistant bacteria posing health hazards to mankind. The study of nanoparticles has revolutionized the problem solving concerns regarding fields of agriculture, chemistry and medicine. Nanoparticles are smaller than atomic nuclei offering more surface area and greater reactivity. Bacterial silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were studied for their antibacterial potential. AgNPs from Bacillus subtilus show the highest antibacterial activity. Nanoparticles exhibiting antibacterial activity can be helpful to reduce the toxic impact of synthetic antibiotics. Present work deals with the green production of silver nanoparticles by exploiting indigenous bacteria. These AgNPs were characterized through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic (FTIR) analysis, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and UV spectroscopic analysis and were also evaluated for their antibacterial and antifungal potential. The data suggested the extracellular biosynthesis method to be very effective for the biosynthesis of AgNPs in some bacterial strains. Keeping in view the antibacterial potential of studied AgNPs, the present work suggests green production of nanoparticles which can be effectively utilized as environment friendly antibacterial and antifungal agents.
Potential of adsorbents from agricultural wastes as alternative fillers in mixed matrix membrane for gas separation: A review
Authors: Ghazali Alia Aqilah , Rahman Sunarti Abd , Samah Rozaimi Abu
Published: May 2020

Mixed matrix membrane (MMM), formed by dispersing fillers in polymer matrix, has attracted researchers’ attention due to its outstanding performance compared to polymeric membrane. However, its widespread use is limited due to high cost of the commercial filler which leads to the studies on alternative low-cost fillers. Recent works have focused on utilizing agricultural wastes as potential fillers in fabricating MMM. A membrane with good permeability and selectivity was able to be prepared at low cost. The objective of this review article is to compile all the available information on the potential agricultural wastes as fillers in fabricating MMM for gas separation application. The gas permeation mechanisms through polymeric and MMM as well as the chemical and physical properties of the agricultural waste fillers were also reviewed. Additionally, the economic study and future direction of MMM development especially in gas separation field were discussed.
NEET-Jugendliche in Österreich: Problemausmaß, volkswirtschaftliche Kosten und Handlungsempfehlungen
Authors: Bacher Johann
Published: May 2020

Der NEET-Indikator ist zu einem festen Bestandteil der Sozialberichterstattung geworden und dient als Referenzgröße für sozial-, arbeits- und bildungspolitische Maßnahmen. Der Beitrag untersucht die Betroffenheit von NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training) in Österreich im Jahr 2018 und stellt statistische Zusammenhänge dar. Darüber hinaus wird eine Schätzung der volkswirtschaftlichen Kosten von NEET vorgenommen. Aus den bisherigen Forschungen zu NEET werden schließlich Handlungsempfehlungen abgeleitet. Ein kurzes Fazit mit Bezug zum aktuellen Regierungsprogramm der neuen Bundesregierung schließt den Beitrag ab.
Die Auswirkungen von Kindergartengebühren auf die Erwerbstätigkeit von Frauen mit Kindern
Authors: Zangerl Felix , Pham Isabel
Published: May 2020

Diese Arbeit befasst sich mit der Frage, inwieweit sich die Abschaffung von Kindergartengebühren auf die Erwerbstätigkeit von Frauen mit Kindern unter sechs Jahren auswirkt. Den Anstoß zur Arbeit bot die Abschaffung der Gebühren im Bundesland Wien im Herbst 2009. Für die Analyse wird eine „Difference in differences“-Schätzung durchgeführt, bei der Wien mit anderen urbanen Regionen in Österreich verglichen wird. Der Beobachtungszeitraum umfasst das Jahr vor (2008) und das Jahr nach (2010) der Gebührenabschaffung. Mit Daten aus dem Mikrozensus wird das Ausmaß an Wochenarbeitsstunden der Frauen durch sozioökonomische Faktoren erklärt. Da Frauenerwerbstätigkeit durch eine Vielzahl an (un)beobachtbaren Faktoren determiniert wird und Kinderbetreuung nur einen Teil zur Erklärung beiträgt, resultiert die empirische Analyse der Auswirkung der Gebühren auf die Frauenerwerbstätigkeit in keinen signifikanten Effekten.
Self-Regulation Mindsets: Relationship to Coping, Executive Functioning, and ADHD
Authors: Burnette Jeni L. , Babij Alexandra D. , Oddo Lauren E. , Knouse Laura E.
Published: May 2020

Introduction: We examined if mindsets about the stability (fixed mindset) or malleability (growth mindset) of self-regulation predicted coping with setbacks. We also investigated relations with Executive Function (EF) deficits and ADHD status.

Methods: In two correlational studies (Study 1, N = 204; Study 2, N = 184, ADHD, n = 34, Non-ADHD, n = 150), participants reported on their mindsets, self-regulatory abilities, and responded to assessments related to a setback about which they wrote.

Results: Across both studies, growth mindsets predicted less negative affect, greater efficacy, and less avoidant coping. The relationship between mindsets and these responses did not depend on EF deficits (Study 1 and Study 2) nor ADHD diagnostic status (Study 2), but participants with greater EF deficits and an ADHD diagnosis reported weaker growth mindsets of self-regulation.

Discussion: Findings support the evaluation and development of growth mindset interventions to help individuals with disorders of self-regulation to cope more effectively.
Reactions to Witnessing Ethnic Microaggressions: An Experimental Study
Authors: Torres Lucas , Reveles Alexandra K. , Mata-Greve Felicia , Schwartz Sarah , Domenech Rodriguez Melanie M.
Published: May 2020

Introduction: Minimal research has examined how witnesses identify and respond to ethnic microaggressions including the role of colorblind racial attitudes.

Method: University student participants (N = 401) were randomly assigned to one of three experimental conditions in which they witnessed a research decoy experiencing an ethnic microaggression, an overt discriminatory interaction, or a neutral interaction (control).

Results: The study findings showed that 46% of participants who witnessed an ethnic microaggression identified it as unfair or differential treatment compared to 84% of those who observed an overt form of discrimination. Multilevel model analyses revealed a 3-way interaction (time × experimental condition × colorblind racial attitudes) such that participants with low colorblind racial attitudes had significant increases in negative affect and systolic blood pressure after witnessing overt discrimination.

Discussion: Key differences exist in the identification and responses associated with witnessing an ethnic microaggression compared to overt discrimination. Findings suggest that shifting colorblind racial attitudes may be a promising area of intervention to improve detection of ethnic microaggressions.
A Single Intraventricular Injection of VEGF Leads to Long-Term Neurotrophic Effects in Axotomized Motoneurons
Authors: Calvo Paula M. , de la Cruz Rosa R. , Pastor Angel M.
Published: May 2020

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has been recently demonstrated to induce neuroprotective and synaptotrophic effects on lesioned neurons. Hitherto, the administration of VEGF in different animal models of lesion or disease has been conducted following a chronic protocol of administration. We questioned whether a single dose of VEGF, administered intraventricularly, could induce long-term neurotrophic effects on injured motoneurons. For this purpose, we performed in cats the axotomy of abducens motoneurons and the injection of VEGF into the fourth ventricle in the same surgical session and investigated the discharge characteristics of axotomized and treated motoneurons by single-unit extracellular recordings in the chronic alert preparation. We found that injured motoneurons treated with a single VEGF application discharged with normal characteristics, showing neuronal eye position (EP) and velocity sensitivities similar to control, thereby preventing the axotomy-induced alterations. These effects were present for a prolonged period of time (50 d) after VEGF administration. By confocal immunofluorescence we also showed that the synaptic stripping that ensues lesion was not present, rather motoneurons showed a normal synaptic coverage. Moreover, we demonstrated that VEGF did not lead to any angiogenic response pointing to a direct action of the factor on neurons. In summary, a single dose of VEFG administered just after motoneuron axotomy is able to prevent for a long time the axotomy-induced firing and synaptic alterations without any associated vascular sprouting. We consider that these data are of great relevance due to the potentiality of VEGF as a therapeutic agent in neuronal lesions and diseases.
Pupil Diameter Tracks Statistical Structure in the Environment to Increase Visual Sensitivity
Authors: Schwiedrzik Caspar M. , Sudmann Sandrin S.
Published: May 2020

Pupil diameter determines how much light hits the retina and, thus, how much information is available for visual processing. This is regulated by a brainstem reflex pathway. Here, we investigate whether this pathway is under the control of internal models about the environment. This would allow adjusting pupil dynamics to environmental statistics to augment information transmission. We present image sequences containing internal temporal structure to humans of either sex and male macaque monkeys. We then measure whether the pupil tracks this temporal structure not only at the rate of luminance variations, but also at the rate of statistics not available from luminance information alone. We find entrainment to environmental statistics in both species. This entrainment directly affects visual processing by increasing sensitivity at the environmentally relevant temporal frequency. Thus, pupil dynamics are matched to the temporal structure of the environment to optimize perception, in line with an active sensing account.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTWhen light hits the retina, the pupil reflexively constricts. This determines how much light and thus how much information is available for visual processing. We show that the rate at which the pupil constricts and dilates is matched to the temporal structure of our visual environment, although this information is not directly contained in the light variations that usually trigger reflexive pupil constrictions. Adjusting pupil diameter in accordance with environmental regularities optimizes information transmission at ecologically relevant temporal frequencies. We show that this is the case in humans and macaque monkeys, suggesting that the reflex pathways that regulate pupil diameter are under some degree of cognitive control across primate species.
Dendritic Spine Dynamics after Peripheral Nerve Injury: An Intravital Structural Study
Authors: Benson Curtis A. , Fenrich Keith K. , Olson Kai-Lan , Patwa Siraj , Bangalore Lakshmi , Waxman Stephen G. , Tan Andrew M.
Published: May 2020

Neuropathic pain is an intractable medical condition with few or no options for effective treatment. Emerging evidence shows a strong structure-function relationship between dendritic spine dysgenesis and the presence of neuropathic pain. Postmortem tissue analyses can only imply dynamic structural changes associated with injury-induced pain. Here, we profiled thein vivodynamics of dendritic spines over time on the same superficial dorsal horn (lamina II) neurons before and after peripheral nerve injury-induced pain. We used a two-photon, whole-animal imaging paradigm that permitted repeat imaging of the same dendritic branches of these neurons in C57/Bl6 Thy1-YFP male mice. Our study demonstrates, for the first time, the ongoing, steady-state changes in dendritic spine dynamics in the dorsal horn associated with peripheral nerve injury and pain. Ultimately, the relationship between altered dendritic spine dynamics and neuropathic pain may serve as a structure-based opportunity to investigate mechanisms of pain following injury and disease.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTThis work is important because it demonstrates for the first time: (1) the powerful utility of intravital study of dendritic spine dynamics in the superficial dorsal horn; (2) that nerve injury-induced pain triggers changes in dendritic spine steady-state behavior in the spinal cord dorsal horn; and (3) this work opens the door to further investigationsin vivoof spinal cord dendritic spine dynamics in the context of injury and disease.
Evaluation of progression to diabetes in high-risk patients eligible to attend the ‘Walking Away from Diabetes’ educational intervention: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Jonker Leon , Fisher Stacey Jayne , Westgate Robert , Overend Louise
Published: May 2020

Aims: To retrospectively assess the efficacy of a pragmatic education programme called ‘Walking Away from Diabetes’ (WAD), a single-session intervention aimed at patients who are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).Methods: Baseline and follow-up data for 6,116 patients, identified as ‘at risk of diabetes’ in the period April 2012 to March 2016, were assessed for T2DM status in January 2018. Any differences in outcome between WAD attenders and non-attenders was explored using Kaplan–Meier, log rank testing and Cox regression analyses.Results: During the follow-up period, 426 of 3,470 (12.3%) WAD attenders and 349 of 2,646 (13.2%) non-attenders were diagnosed with T2DM (p=0.068, log rank test). Cox regression showed that HbA1c (hazard ratio (HR) 1.23, p<0.001) and high density lipid levels (HR 0.67, p<0.001) rather than WAD attendance (HR 0.89, p=0.11) were the two main factors associated with progress from ‘at risk’ to T2DM.Conclusions: Although the wider health impact of the WAD programme was not considered here, session attendance does not appear to reduce the risk of developing T2DM. However, other factors influence the risk of developing T2DM. It is essential for educational programmes, designed to have a preventative effect for people at risk of diabetes, to be assessed for short- and long-term efficacy.
Optimization of The Electrospinning Process for Preparation of Nanofibers From Poly (Vinyl Alcohol) (PVA) and Chromolaena odorata L. Extrac (COE)
Authors: Sriyanti I. , Marlina L. , Jauhari J.
Published: May 2020

The Cromaloena odorata (COE) contains phenols, flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, saponins, steroids that possess diverse therapeutic effects. However, COE has poor solubility in water and poor absorbtion in the body. Incorporation of COE in nanofiber system is a promising way to increase CEO solubility. One of the method to produce nanofiber is electrospinning. The electrospinning process there are three of the most important process parameters are applied flowrate, voltage and TCD. In this study we developed optimized condition for electrospinning process of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/CEO and their characterization. The Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis showed that modification of flowrate and TCD did not affect the morphology of PVA and COE fiber. However fiber diameter decreased when lower flowrate, higher voltage was applied, and TCD. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) study was conducted to identify possible intermolecular interaction between PVA/COE that has potential application as antimicrobial wound dressing.