bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Obesity and smoking as risk factors for invasive mechanical ventilation in COVID-19: A retrospective, observational cohort study
Authors: Monteiro Ana C. , Suri Rajat , Emeruwa Iheanacho O. , Stretch Robert J. , Cortes-Lopez Roxana Y. , Sherman Alexander , Lindsay Catherine C. , Fulcher Jennifer A. , Goodman-Meza David , Sapru Anil , Buhr Russell G. , Chang Steven Y. , Wang Tisha , Qadir Nida
Published: December 2020

Purpose

To describe the trajectory of respiratory failure in COVID-19 and explore factors associated with risk of invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV).

Materials and methods

A retrospective, observational cohort study of 112 inpatient adults diagnosed with COVID-19 between March 12 and April 16, 2020. Data were manually extracted from electronic medical records. Multivariable and Univariable regression were used to evaluate association between baseline characteristics, initial serum markers and the outcome of IMV.

Results

Our cohort had median age of 61 (IQR 45–74) and was 66% male. In-hospital mortality was 6% (7/112). ICU mortality was 12.8% (6/47), and 18% (5/28) for those requiring IMV. Obesity (OR 5.82, CI 1.74–19.48), former (OR 8.06, CI 1.51–43.06) and current smoking status (OR 10.33, CI 1.43–74.67) were associated with IMV after adjusting for age, sex, and high prevalence comorbidities by multivariable analysis. Initial absolute lymphocyte count (OR 0.33, CI 0.11–0.96), procalcitonin (OR 1.27, CI 1.02–1.57), IL-6 (OR 1.17, CI 1.03–1.33), ferritin (OR 1.05, CI 1.005–1.11), LDH (OR 1.57, 95% CI 1.13–2.17) and CRP (OR 1.13, CI 1.06–1.21), were associated with IMV by univariate analysis.

Conclusions

Obesity, smoking history, and elevated inflammatory markers were associated with increased need for IMV in patients with COVID-19.
Perceptual harmony in judgments of group prototypicality and intragroup respect
Authors: Wright Joshua D. , Climenhage L. James , Schmitt Michael T. , Branscombe Nyla R.
Published: December 2020

We test common sense psychology of intragroup relations whereby people assume that intragroup respect and ingroup prototypicality are positively related. In Study 1a, participants rated a group member as more prototypical if they learned that group member was highly respected rather than disrespected. In Study 1b, participants rated a group member as more respected by other group members if they learned that group member was prototypical rather than unprototypical. As a commonsense psychology of groups, we reasoned that the perceived relationship between prototypicality and intragroup respect would be stronger for cohesive groups compared to incohesive groups. The effect of intragroup respect on perceptions of prototypicality (Study 2a & 2c) and the effect of prototypicality on perceptions of intragroup respect (Study 2b) were generally stronger for participants considering cohesive groups relative to incohesive groups. However, the interaction effect of prototypicality and group cohesion on intragroup respect did fail to replicate in Study 2d. In Studies 3, 4a, and 4b we manipulated the relationship between prototypicality and intragroup respect and found that when these variables were in perceptual harmony participants perceived groups as more cohesive. The results of eight out of nine studies conducted are consistent with the prediction that people make inferences about intragroup respect, prototypicality, and group cohesion in a manner that maintains perceptual harmony.
C-reactive protein can predict dose intensity, time to treatment failure and overall survival in HCC treated with lenvatinib
Authors: Hayashi Tsuguru , Shibata Michihiko , Oe Shinji , Miyagawa Koichiro , Honma Yuichi , Harada Masaru
Published: December 2020

Background and aim

Lenvatinib has become a first line treatment for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, continued administration is impossible in many patients due to treatment resistance and severe adverse events. This study aimed to identify predicting factors to select patients likely to benefit from lenvatinib treatment.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 53 patients who were treated with lenvatinib for unresectable HCC. They were divided to two groups; low C-reactive protein (CRP) group with pretreatment serum CRP level < 1.0 mg/dL and high CRP group with serum CRP level ≥ 1.0 mg/dl. Overall survival (OS), total amount administered, and period of treatment were compared between the two groups.

Results

The high CRP group showed a significantly poorer OS than the low CRP group (0.0% vs 71.5%/ 1year, p < 0.01). Multivariate analyses revealed that high CRP was a significant negative factor for OS (HR: 7.69, 95% confidence interval: 2.43–24.3, p < 0.001), and this result was independent of Child-Pugh score and existing tumor factors. Relative dose intensity at 8 weeks was lower (p = 0.01) and time to treatment failure was shorter (P < 0.001) in the high CRP group.

Conclusions

CRP level was associated with OS in HCC patients treated with lenvatinib. CRP could be a useful marker to identify patients most likely to benefit from lenvatinib treatment.
Propostas de diferentes estímulos de educação ambiental voltados para um aluno autista
Authors: Almeida Rozelaine Rubia Bueno D' , Silveira Bruna Denardin da
Published: December 2020

Resumo: A educação ambiental, enquanto uma área de estudo, deve abranger os mais diferentes níveis de ensino, tornando-se um espaço para práticas capazes de despertar novos sentimentos, atitudes e valores sobre a natureza. Dessa forma, os alunos com deficiência, também devem ser inseridos neste processo de aprendizagem, independentemente de suas condições pessoais. Portanto, o presente trabalho objetivou promover práticas e estímulos de educação ambiental com um estudante autista. Para o desenvolvimento da pesquisa, utilizou-se de pesquisa bibliográfica para o embasamento do referencial teórico, pesquisa descritiva, abordagem qualitativa e coleta de dados a partir de observação e entrevista não estruturada. Pode-se concluir que é possível promover uma diversificação das práticas pedagógicas articuladas com temas de educação ambiental, representando uma forma de aproximar o aluno a novas experiências com a natureza.

Palavras-chave: Transtorno do Espectro Autista (TEA). Sala de Recursos. Boneco Ecológico.
Conhecimento dos profissionais de ginecologia e obstetrícia sobre a doença inflamatória pélvica em um hospital de referência em Pernambuco
Authors: Gomes da Silva Érica Soares , Silva José Vitor Terêncio , De Andrade Amanda Maria Soares , Antunes Lima George Augusto da Fonseca Carvalho , Da Costa Aurélio Antônio Ribeiro , Pordeus Ana Carolina Barbosa , Dos Santos Alan Chaves
Published: December 2020

Objetivou-se analisar o conhecimento e cumprimento dos profissionais de Ginecologia e Obstetrícia (GO) do Instituto de Medicina Integral Professor Fernando Figueira (IMIP), acerca dos critérios diagnósticos e terapêuticos da Doença Inflamatória Pélvica (DIP). O trabalho consiste um estudo transversal composto por 53 residentes e especialistas de GO do IMIP, obtidos por busca ativa de Janeiro a Junho de 2019 e coletados através de questionários montados pelos pesquisadores. Fez-se a análise pelo programa STATA 12.1. Da amostra, 41 eram do sexo feminino; sete, do masculino e cinco não responderam. A mediana das idades foi de 30 anos. Do total de profissionais, 60,4% acertaram os três critérios diagnósticos maiores do Ministério da Saúde (MS). Além disso, três e 26 participantes assinalaram todos os critérios menores e elaborados, respectivamente. Em relação ao tratamento ambulatorial, 83% identificaram corretamente o esquema proposto pelo MS e 18,9%, o pelo Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Sobre o tratamento hospitalar, 44 profissionais determinaram corretamente um dos esquemas do MS, porém apenas um acertou os dois presentes no questionário. Os tratamentos do CDC foram identificados corretamente por 39 participantes. Em conclusão, ainda existem dificuldades no conhecimento e na aplicabilidade dos critérios diagnósticos e terapêuticos da DIP entre os profissionais da instituição, devido à grande divergência de informações na literatura.
Hibah As A Way of Islamic Wealth Management
Authors: Bakar Azizi Abu , Fauzi Nur Syahira Md , Hashim Hydzulkifli
Published: December 2020

Islamic wealth management is one of the most indispensable fields that every people should be aware of especially among the Muslims in Malaysia. There are many Islamic wealth instruments suggested in Islam such as faraid, wasiyyah and also hibah. This paper attempted to discuss on several contemporary issues with regards to the implementation of hibah in Malaysia by analysing literature reviews provided by previous researchers on the matter. This is relevant where hibah is becoming one of the major Islamic wealth management tools being used among the Muslims in Malaysia and several issues arise which triggered the need to address this matter. This concept paper tried to analyse the issues arise from different perspective provided by previous researchers. Results from the literature analysing found that several issues need to be solved to improve the current hibah implementation in Malaysia such as lack of hibah awareness, the similarity between hibah trust and conventional living trust, the absence of uniform law on hibah procedure and many more. Hence, this concept paper contributed towards addressing the Islamic wealth management issue as in hibah where it may help as a guide for future researches.
In vivo evaluation of two adaptive Starling-like control algorithms for left ventricular assist devices
Authors: Habigt Moriz A. , Gesenhues Jonas , Ketelhut Maike , Hein Marc , Duschner Patrick , Rossaint Rolf , Mechelinck Mare
Published: December 2020

The implantation of a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) is often the only therapy in terminal heart failure (HF). However, despite technical advancements, the physical fitness of the patients is still limited. One strategy to improve the benefits of ventricular assist device therapy might be the implementation of load adaptive control strategies. Two control strategies and a constant speed controller (CS) were implemented in an acute animal model where four healthy pigs received LVAD implantations. In the first strategy (preload recruitable stroke work [SW] controller, PRS), the desired pump work was computed in relation to the end-diastolic volume. In the second strategy, the controller was programmed to keep a fixed ratio of the mean hydraulic power of the assist device to the mean hydraulic power of the left ventricle (power relation controller, PR). Preload reduction, afterload increase experiments and short-term coronary artery occlusions were conducted to test the behavior of the control strategies under variable conditions. Within the experiments, the PR controller demonstrated the best preload sensitivity. The PRS controller had the best response to an increased afterload and to a reduced ventricular contractility in terms of effectively preventing ventricular overloading and increasing VAD support. No significant differences in systemic flow were observed.
The Shangjing norm of the Liao dynasty and the Dongjing mode of the Northern Song dynasty
Authors: Dong Xinlin
Published: December 2020

After the downfall of the Tang dynasty, the Khitan-Liao empire, the Five Dynasties, and Northern Song dynasty formed the second “northern and southern dynasties” confrontation in the history of China. Also in this period, two systems appeared in the capital city planning: the “Shangjing norm” of the Liao dynasty characterized by the 日-shaped plan view and the “Dongjing mode” of the Northern Song dynasty characterized by the 回-shaped plan view. The “Shangjing norm” is the materialization of the political system of “ruling by the customs of the peoples being ruled” applied by the nomadic rulers from the northern steppes when they were managing the empire with the Han people as the majority. This seemingly reflected the ethnic discrimination of the nomadic ruling class at the beginning of the establishment of their empire. The capital designing ideas of the Jin, Yuan, and Qing dynasties were all following this norm at the beginnings of their rules. “Dongjing mode” of the Northern Song dynasty is the materialization of the “imperial sovereignty” idea emphasized by the empires founded by the Han rulers, which seems reflecting the bureaucrat system with the centralization as the characteristics. The designs of the Liao Zhongjing (Central Capital) and the Jin Zhongdu were both simulations of that of Dongjing, which showed the trends of ethnic convergence and unification. Moreover, Dadu of the Yuan dynasty and Beijing of the Ming and Qing dynasties were the symbols of the formation of the unified multiethnic empire of China.
From Wanderers to Strangers. The shifting space of Scandinavian immigration debate 1970–2016
Authors: Hovden Jan Fredrik
Published: December 2020

The media coverage of immigration serves as an important test for modern democracies’ ability to handle difficult public issues. Systematic and comparative studies over longer time periods are, however, still rare. This is deeply unfortunate as the nature of both immigration and the press systems vary considerably not only across nations but also over time. This article charts the immigration debate in seven Scandinavian newspapers from the birth of modern immigration in the early seventies to the present-day situation. While supporting claims about a general historical shift towards a more problematizing and cultural discourse in Scandinavia, the analysis also identifies major differences in how countries, publications, and genres have handled this complex issue, which brings out fundamental dilemmas for both modern welfare states and journalists. Using the method of multiple correspondence analysis and subsequent cluster analysis, the article also demonstrates how historical press coverage can be fruitfully studied using Geometric Data Analysis as an alternative to frequentist methods.
Early detection of Emanuel syndrome: a case report
Authors: Edoardo Taddei , Elena Sartori , Luigi Raio Bulgheroni , Andrea Papadia
Published: December 2020

Objectives

Emanuel syndrome is a rare inherited syndrome, a correct in utero diagnosis allows effective management for ongoing and future pregnancies.

Case presentation

Here, we report a case of a complete non-mosaic trisomy 22, with several prenatal sonographic findings, that was diagnosed in utero at 15 weeks’ gestation and then it was confirmed with chromosomal analysis and postmortem examination.

Conclusions

Every anatomical difference should always be further investigated in order to achieve the correct diagnosis.
Generalized derivatives and optimization problems for n-dimensional fuzzy-number-valued functions
Authors: Xie Ting , Gong Zengtai , Li Dapeng
Published: December 2020

In this paper, we present the concepts of generalized derivative, directional generalized derivative, subdifferential and conjugate for n-dimensional fuzzy-number-valued functions and discuss the characterizations of generalized derivative and directional generalized derivative by, respectively, using the derivative and directional derivative of crisp functions that are determined by the fuzzy mapping. Furthermore, the relations among generalized derivative, directional generalized derivative, subdifferential and convexity for n-dimensional fuzzy-number-valued functions are investigated. Finally, under two kinds of partial orderings defined on the set of all n-dimensional fuzzy numbers, the duality theorems and saddle point optimality criteria in fuzzy optimization problems with constraints are discussed.
Coarse cohomology with twisted coefficients
Authors: Hartmann Elisa
Published: December 2020

To a coarse structure we associate a Grothendieck topology which is determined by coarse covers. A coarse map between coarse spaces gives rise to a morphism of Grothendieck topologies. This way we define sheaves and sheaf cohomology on coarse spaces. We obtain that sheaf cohomology is a functor on the coarse category: if two coarse maps are close they induce the same map in cohomology. There is a coarse version of a Mayer-Vietoris sequence and for every inclusion of coarse spaces there is a coarse version of relative cohomology. Cohomology with constant coefficients can be computed using the number of ends of a coarse space.
Crystal structure of catena-poly[diaqua-bis(μ2-2-(4-(2,4,4-trimethylpentan-2-yl)phenoxy)propanoato-κ2
O:O')-(2-(4-(2,4,4-trimethylpentan-2-yl)phenoxy)propanoato-κ2
O,O')yttrium(III)], C51H79O11Y
Authors: Zhong Ke-Xiang , Zhang Rong-Gui , Li Lai-Chao , Zhao De-Sen , Wang Yan-Liang
Published: December 2020

C51H79O11Y, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 8.8682(3) Å, b = 22.1328(8) Å, c = 27.9848(10) Å, β = 96.710(1)°, V = 5455.2(3) Å3, Z = 4, R

gt
(F) = 0.0495, wR

ref
(F2) = 0.1275, T = 296(2) K.
Crystal structure of diaqua[bis(benzimidazol-2-yl-methyl)amine-κ3
N,N′,N″]-phthalato-κ1
O-nickel(II)-methanol (1/2), C26H31N5NiO8
Authors: Chen Yu-Xiao , Luo Zhong-Ping , Zhang He , Nie Feng-Mei
Published: December 2020

C26H31N5NiO8, monoclinic, P21/n (no. 14), a = 12.554(3) Å, b = 12.401(3) Å, c = 18.718(5) Å, β = 107.844(3)°, V = 2774.0(12) Å3, Z = 4, R

gt
(F) = 0.0438, wR

ref
(F
2) = 0.1175, T = 153(2) K.
Crystal structure of tetraaqua-bis(1H-indazole-6-carboxylate-κN)cadmium (II), C16H18CdN4O8
Authors: Lan Ying-Dong , Xiong Chun-Lan , Huang Cui-xin , Xiong Wan-Ming , Nie Xu-Liang
Published: December 2020

C16H18CdN4O8, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 6.2751(4) Å, b = 21.7902(13) Å, c = 13.3401(8) Å, β = 90.793(1)°, V = 1823.89(19) Å3, Z = 4, R

gt
(F) = 0.0252, wR

ref
(F
2) = 0.0603, T = 296(2) K.
Crystal structure of dichloride-bis(1-propylimidazole-κ
1
N)zinc(II), C12H20Cl2N4Zn
Authors: Yang Bingchuan , Liu Gang , Wang Yong
Published: December 2020

C12H20Cl2N4Zn, monoclinic, P21/n (no. 14), a = 9.9915(9) Å, b = 13.0923(12) Å, c = 13.1894(13) Å, β = 98.794(2)°, V = 1705.0(3) Å3, Z = 4, Rgt
(F) = 0.0453, wRref
(F
2) = 0.1248, T = 298(2) K.
Toward privacy-sensitive human–robot interaction: Privacy terms and human–data interaction in the personal robot era
Authors: Chatzimichali Anna , Harrison Ross , Chrysostomou Dimitrios
Published: December 2020

Can we have personal robots without giving away personal data? Besides, what is the role of a robots Privacy Policy in that question? This work explores for the first time privacy in the context of consumer robotics through the lens of information communicated to users through Privacy Policies and Terms and Conditions. Privacy, personal and non-personal data are discussed under the light of the human–robot relationship, while we attempt to draw connections to dimensions related to personalization, trust, and transparency. We introduce a novel methodology to assess how the “Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development Guidelines Governing the Protection of Privacy and Trans-Border Flows of Personal Data” are reflected upon the publicly available Privacy Policies and Terms and Conditions in the consumer robotics field. We draw comparisons between the ways eight consumer robotic companies approach privacy principles. Current findings demonstrate significant deviations in the structure and context of privacy terms. Some practical dimensions in terms of improving the context and the format of privacy terms are discussed. The ultimate goal of this work is to raise awareness regarding the various privacy strategies used by robot companies while ultimately creating a usable way to make this information more relevant and accessible to users.
Enzyme-assisted pulp refining: an energy saving approach
Authors: Kumar Amit , Ram Chhotu , Tazeb Adebabay
Published: December 2020

Energy conservation has become an essential step in pulp and paper industry due to diminishing fossil reserves and high cost of energy. Refining is a mechanical treatment of pulp that modifies the structure of the fibres in order to achieve desired paper-making properties. However, it consumes considerable amount of energy. The electrical power consumption has a direct impact on paper manufacturing cost. Therefore, there is a requirement to minimize the energy cost. Enzyme-assisted refining is the environment friendly option that reduces the energy consumption for papermaking. Enzyme-assisted refining is defined as mechanical refining after pretreatment of pulp with enzymes such as cellulases and hemicellulases. It not only reduces the energy consumption but also improves the quality of finished paper. Enzymes improve the beatability of pulp at same refining degree (°SR) and desired paper properties can be achieved at decreased refining time. The selection of suitable enzyme, optimization of enzyme dose and appropriate reaction time are the key factors for energy reduction and pulp quality improvement during enzyme-assisted refining.
Multiscale modeling and simulation of magneto-active elastomers based on experimental data
Authors: Kalina Karl A. , Raβloff Alexander , Wollner Maximilian , Metsch Philipp , Brummund Jörg , Kästner Markus
Published: December 2020

In this contribution, we present a framework for the multiscale modeling and simulation of magneto-active elastomers (MAEs). It enables us to consider these materials on the microscopic scale, where the heterogeneous microstructure consisting of magnetizable particles and elastomer matrix is explicitly resolved, as well as the macroscopic scale, where the MAE is considered to be a homogeneous magneto-active body. On both scales, a general continuum formulation of the coupled magneto-mechanical boundary value problem is applied and the finite element method is used to solve the governing equations. Starting with an experimental characterization of the individual constituents, i.e. particles and matrix, microscopic constitutive models for both are formulated and adjusted to the experimental data separately. With that, properties of MAEs resulting from the microscopic constitutive behavior can be captured within the presented modeling approach. Secondly, to discuss general macroscopic properties of magnetically soft and hard MAEs, a computational homogenization scheme is used to calculate the composites’ effective behavior for different geometrical arrangements of the particles on the microscale. Finally, the calculated effective response of a magnetically soft composite system is used to identify the parameters of a macroscopic magneto-elastic model. Using the calibrated model, the behavior of macroscopic MAEs is simulated for different sample geometries.
La distribuzione diatopica di alcuni predicati complessi sardi
Authors: Casti Francesco
Published: December 2020

The aim of this paper is to examine the diatopic variation of some Sardinian complex predicates, mainly from a morphosyntactic (and, secondarily, a semantic) perspective. I will discuss (i) the distribution of Camp(idanese)ai/ Log(udorese)-Nu(orese)àere a+ inf(initive), lit. ‘to have to’ + inf., and of the agglutinated and univerbated forms of Log.-Nu.dèvere/dèppere+ inf., lit. ‘must’ + inf., both constructions expressing (different types of) future time reference; (ii) the diffusion of person and number in the modal complex predicate Camp.fai/ Log.-Nu.fàghere/fàchere a+ inf., lit. ‘to do to’ + inf., with the sense of ‘being able/allowed to do something’; (iii) cases of double accusative marking of clitic pronouns expressingcausee/beneficiaryandundergoer, and agreement between these pronouns and the past participle of ‘make’/‘let’ in the causative constructions Camp.fai/ Log.-Nu.fàghere/fàchere+ inf., lit. ‘to make’ + inf., and Camp.lassai/ Log.-Nu.lassare/(dassare)+ inf., lit. ‘to let’ + inf.; (iv) the ongoing diffusion of the reiterative and/or purposive values of Camp.torrai a/po/ Log.-Nu.torrare a/pro+ inf., lit. ‘to return to’ + inf.; (v) the ongoing diffusion of the aspectual complex predicate Camp.(am)megai/ Log.-Nu.(am)megare de/a+ inf., conveying progressive aspect, according to Blasco Ferrer (1991; 2002) and my data. In conclusion, I will argue that isoglosses of morphosyntactic variation of Sardinian complex predicates seem to be more ‘conservative’ (in the sense of Virdis 1988) and to englobe wider and more homogenous areas, if compared to phonological isoglosses.
Physicochemical and instrumental characterization of rice husk and its potential use as a low cost adsorbent for mutagenic dye bromophenol blue
Authors: Sultana Sabiha , Rehan Kamran , Rehan Imran , Ali Fahad , Waris Salman , Zahoor Muhammad , Salman Syed Muhammad , Khan Sanaullah , Rehan Muhammad Saad
Published: December 2020

In this study fine powder of rice husk were used as novel adsorbent for the removal of bromophenol dye. Different conventional physicochemical analysis and instrumental techniques were used to characterize the adsorbent. The surface area of the adsorbent was found to be 160.6 m2/g with bulk density of 1.139 g/dm3. Proximate and ultimate analysis showed that the selected material is a rich source of carbon with the advantage of not having Sulphur contents. FTIR and SEM analysis confirmed the surface modification via aqua regia in comparison to parental material (that have enhanced its surface porosity). The maximum uptake capacity (0.8 mg/g) of dye was reached at pH 3, 20 ppm of adsorbate concentration, and 0.5 g of treated rice husk dosage at room temperature and 60 min of equilibrium time. The equilibrium adsorption data was best explained by Freundlich adsorption isotherm with R
2 value of 0.998. Kinetic studies revealed that adsorption follows pseudo second order kinetic model with R
2 value of 0.997, K
2 equal to 0.831 (g/mg min), and q

e
value of 0.97 mg/g. The thermodynamic parameters (∆S° = 6.78 J/mol, ∆H° = 1501 J/mol, ∆G° −1.50, 0.5, 0.621 and 0.0787 kJ/mol corresponding to 293, 303, 313 and 333 K) pointed towards the endothermic and spontaneous nature of the process.
The Sympoiesis of Clouds
Authors: Collins Christopher C.
Published: December 2020

In this essay, I use performative writing as a framework to explore the problem of climate change. Specifically, the shifting and accumulative nature of clouds serves as a trope for imaginatively restaging environmental issues. In the essay, I view the environment as a symbolic and material construction that is coproduced in connection to the personal, discursive, and collective unconscious. Through narrative, poetry, and performance, I argue for the concept of environmental performativity as a metonym for exploring the interdependent relationship among the individual, environment, and climate change.
THE MODERATING EFFECT OF DIRECTORS’ NETWORK TOWARDS TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION AND FIRMS’ PERFORMANCE: A CONCEPTUAL PAPER
Authors: Hussain Shah Rol , Hashim Fathyah , Jamaludin Mohd Faizal
Published: December 2020

Scholars have given increased attention to seek for a solution to improve firms’ performance. The literature demonstrated that technology innovation is considered the most powerful means of firms’ performance for modern companies. Empirical findings showed, however, that the relationship between technological innovation and firms’ performance continues to be inconclusive as it has a negative, positive or no impact on firms’ performance. In order to address such gap, this paper proposes a theoretical framework to describe the moderating effect of directors’ network on technological innovation and firms’ performance. It shows that the effectiveness of business innovation can be enhanced through direct or indirect use of each network of directors. The firm still neglects the significant capacity of the board of directors' network in a firm. In short, the crucial discussion found in this paper will lead to improving the information on innovation, networking and organizational studies as well as act as a reference to study in other countries. This study is a promising field. The business will benefit from a large social network of directors. Thus, the company is proposing to fully utilize the function of directors’ network to leverage the innovation activities and firm’s performance.
An Ecologic Analysis of Comorbidities in Patients with COVID-19 in Philadelphia and New York City
Authors: Johnson Krys , Hollin Ilene , Palumbo Aimee , Spitzer Jacqueline , Sarwer David
Published: December 2020

Objective: Early scientific reports of the COVID-19 pandemic suggested that the coronavirus was associated with more serious disease and mortality in older adults. However, additional research suggested that those with underlying comorbidities, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart and respiratory diseases were most at risk for more severe outcomes. As a result, most studies focused on comorbidities among those who were hospitalized or critically ill. There is a need to understand how common comorbidities are associated with overall risk of infection. This analysis aimed to explore the relationship between COVID-19 infection and common comorbidities. Methods: An ecologic analysis explored aggregate case counts of COVID-19 cases across zip codes compared to area-level estimates of health-related variables and outcomes in Philadelphia, PA and New York City, NY. Results: The analysis found that small area-estimated rates of obesity and asthma were significant ecologic predictors of population-based rates of COVID-19 cases in New York City. In contrast, small area-estimates rates of arthritis were significant predictors in Philadelphia. Conclusions: There are important area-level variations in COVID-19 infections that are correlated with variations in other chronic conditions, suggesting that factors that influence health disparities may affect the distribution of COVID-19.
Can Wastewater be Used to Improve our COVID-19 Surveillance Efforts?
Authors: McGinnis Shannon , Mclouglin Shane , Buturla Tiffany , D'Souza Nishita , Logo José , Murphy Heather
Published: December 2020

As the spread of COVID-19 continues to significantly impact daily life in the United States and globally, there is a need for a clear understanding of disease prevalence in communities. Traditional methods that rely on counting individual cases often result in underreporting due to limited access to testing or healthcare. This issue is further exacerbated by the spread of COVID-19 by asymptomatic or presymptomatic individuals who may not seek testing. Historically, wastewater surveillance has been used to provide population-level data on the prevalence of infectious diseases in communities. Data collected through wastewater surveillance has been used to advise public health control measures, such as vaccination campaigns, and to detect local outbreaks before cases are reported to public health authorities. For this reason, researchers around the globe have been analyzing wastewater samples for SARS-CoV-2 to assist in our response to the existing COVID-19 pandemic. This commentary discusses the potential utility of wastewater-based surveillance to advise public health control strategies for COVID-19 and discusses how it may be used to strengthen local surveillance efforts in Philadelphia.
A Study on the Comparison of Geometrical-Mechanical Intelligence Games Activities that are Conducted with Concrete Materials and in Computer Environment
Authors: DOKUMACI SÜTÇÜ Neşe
Published: December 2020

In this study it was aimed to determine the effect of geometrical-mechanical intelligence games activities that are conducted with concrete materials and in computer environment on the spatial visualization and mental rotation skills of prospective teachers and to examine the opinions of prospective teachers about the activities. The research was conducted with mixed-method research. The study group consists of 49 prospective teachers. The obtained quantitative data were collected with “Differential Aptitude Test” and “Mental Rotation Test” and qualitative data were collected with “Open-Ended Questionnaire”. In the analysis of obtained quantitative data, paired samples t-test and one-way analysis of covariance were used and in the analysis of qualitative data, content analysis was used. According to the findings in the research, it was determined that the activities that are conducted both with concrete materials and in computer environment significantly increased the spatial visualization and mental rotation skills of prospective teachers. In addition to this, it was determined that there was not a difference between the increases in the spatial visualization and mental rotation skills of prospective teachers after the activities were conducted. Furthermore, prospective teachers stated that they had fun while performing the activities, the activities developed their visual/spatial intelligence, three-dimensional thinking and establishing a part-whole relationship, increased their attention and concentration and thought and decided faster and more accurate in the second time they were answering the spatial ability tests.
Friction Stir Welding of Aluminium Using Probes of Various Geometry
Authors: Andrzejewski Dariusz , Werakso Bartłomiej
Published: December 2020

The article presents tests related to mechanisms accompanying the formation of friction welds made using variously shaped probes for aluminium sheets. In addition, the article discusses the effect of applied FSW technology parameters on the quality, form and repeatability joints. The tests included the microscopic analysis of structures formed when making aluminium joints using a rotating probe.
Transformation of Russian Legislation on Civil Protection in Emergencies Caused by the Spread of Dangerous Infectious Diseases
Authors: Shpakovskiy Yu. , Kovrigina O.
Published: December 2020

The paper deals with topical issues of the Russian State System for Prevention and Response to Emergencies in the context of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic. Some aspects of a possible legislation reform in the field of protection of the population and territories in emergencies caused by the spread of dangerous infectious diseases are investigated. The authors consider the issues of limiting the constitutional rights and freedoms of citizens in high-alert and emergency situations. Activities to protect the rights and freedoms of citizens in the context of a pandemic are based on article 55 of the Constitution, according to which the rights can be restricted by law only to the extent necessary to protect the health of citizens. Based on the analysis of changes in legislation in this area, the authors substantiate proposals for improving activities in the field of protection of the population and territories in emergencies, as well as expanding the functions of the Security Council of the Russian Federation.
The Implementation of the WADA Code in Greece Through Law 4373/2016
Authors: Panagiotopoulos D. P. , Konstantinidis K. , Kallimani Z.
Published: December 2020

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On the issue of conservative myomotomy during pregnancy
Authors: Thomson G. I.
Published: December 2020

That uterine fibroids, in general, do not reduce fertility and the possibility of conception, it was pointed out recently, especially by Hofmeier). It is known that in this case urgent birth is often possible in a natural way.
Técnica procesal para el cumplimiento provisional de decisiones judiciales en el derecho procesal civil brasileño = Procedural technique for provisional enforcement of the judicial decisions in Brazilian civil procedural law
Authors: Hertel Daniel Roberto
Published: December 2020

Trata de los diversos aspectos relacionados con el cumplimiento provisional (ejecución provisional) de las decisiones judiciales en el Código de Proceso Civil Brasileño de 2015 (CPC), centrándose en los precedentes del Superior Tribunal de Justicia (STJ) y en los precedentes del Supremo Tribunal Federal (STF). Aborda el propósito del cumplimiento provisional, y luego analiza las hipótesis de la idoneidad de esta modalidad de ejecución, contrastándolas con situaciones de cumplimiento definitivo. Se ocupa de las normas de tramitación del cumplimiento provisional, analizando la necesidad de proporcionar seguridad, aclarando sobre el momento procesal exacto para la práctica de ese acto. Las posibilidades de dispensar el depósito también están ventiladas. Menciona la posibilidad de consolar la ejecución provisional en definitiva. Por último, también aborda el cumplimiento provisional de la tutela provisional y los efectos prácticos de la concesión de protección provisional en la sentencia.Deals with the various aspects related to the provisional execution with judicial decisions in the CPC, focusing on the precedents of the Superior Court of Justice. It addresses the purpose of provisional execution in order to subsequently analyze the hypotheses of suitability for this type of execution, contrasting them with situations of definitive execution. It deals with the rules for processing provisional execution, analyzing the need to provide security, clarifying the exact procedural moment for the practice of that act. The chances of waiving the deposit are also considered. It mentions the possibility of convoluting the provisional execution definitively. Finally, it also addresses the provisional fulfillment of provisional guardianship and the practical effects of granting provisional guardianship in the sentence.Trata do diversos aspectos relativos ao cumprimento provisório das decisões judiciais no CPC, com enfoque nos precedentes do Superior Tribunal de Justiça. Aborda a finalidade do cumprimento provisório para, em seguida, analisar as hipóteses de cabimento dessa modalidade de execução, contrapondo-as às situações de cumprimento definitivo. Trata das regras de processamento do cumprimento provisório, analisando a necessidade de prestação de caução, esclarecendo sobre o momento procedimental exato para a prática daquele ato. As hipóteses de dispensa da caução também são ventiladas. Menciona a possibilidade de convolação da execução provisória em definitiva. Por fim, aborda ainda o cumprimento provisório da tutela provisória e os efeitos práticos da concessão da tutela provisória na sentença.
Politics, Political Parties and the Party System in Nigeria: Who's Interest?
Authors: Yagboyaju Dhikru Adewale , Simbine Antonia Taiye
Published: December 2020

Party system and the administration of political parties are critical factors in determining the direction of politics and democracy. Three political parties contested at the inception of Nigeria’s Fourth Republic in 1999, but the number increased to more than 91 as at 2019. This paper raises fundamental questions as to whose interest – public or private interest of promoters and financiers - these parties serve, and whether the increase in the number of political parties has significantly entrenched democratic values in the country? These questions are compelling because of several events in political party operations in the 20 years of the Fourth Republic. These include controversial and vexatious party primaries preceding every major election, often leading to protracted and distractive litigations and rampant political defections. Unregulated use of money has, in particular, restrained ample participation by women and youths, while violence is almost becoming a norm and permanent characteristic of the electoral and political system. The paper draws data from secondary documentary sources for its conceptual and theoretical contents. Primary data are generated from events analyses by the authors as observers at party conventions and other meetings for the selection of candidates for political offices as well as during general elections. This is complimented by content analyses of relevant documents including electoral laws, court and law reports, and reports by special committees such as the Electoral Reform Committee (ERC). A combination of the ecological approach and conspiratorial theory is deployed for the paper’s analytic frame.
Breve 21: Lecciones aprendidas de un Fondo Catastrófico Nacional: El Fondo de Drogas para el Cáncer de Inglaterra
Authors:   Inter-American Development Bank
Published: December 2020

En 2010, el Sistema Nacional de Salud de Inglaterra (NHS) introdujo una serie de políticas para mejorar el acceso a los medicamentos para el cáncer. El Fondo de Medicamentos para el Cáncer se estableció con el objetivo de facilitar el acceso a medicamentos oncológicos que no estaban disponibles a través del NHS. La evidencia disponible sugiere que este tipo de fondos verticales podría debilitar la capacidad del gobierno para negociar mejores acuerdos con las compañías farmacéuticas y generar ineficiencias en la prestación de servicios, al priorizar tecnologías sanitarias menos más costo-efectivas. A partir del análisis de la experiencia de Inglaterra, se recomienda asegurar un enfoque integral para la evaluación de las tecnologías sanitarias y las decisiones de cobertura. Asimismo, se recomienda establecer procesos de toma de decisiones que incluyan a industria, pacientes, contribuyentes, sistema jurídico y medios de comunicación.
Intertextuality manipulation in post-September-eleven American fiction to misinform readership
Authors: Saraireh Mohammad Atawi , Saraireh Thanaa Mohammad
Published: December 2020

Some novel writers in the wake of the September 11 events in the United States used a Micavillean approach to support their ideologies. Manipulation of intertextuality from Islamic resources is one strategy that is heavily employed in their publications for this purpose. In this paper, the researchers use Updike’s Terrorist, Miller’s Blindsided, and McBain’s Merely Hate to illustrate this kind of manipulation. They first cite an example, find the supposed Islamic reference material, then they discuss the issue showing how intertextuality is manipulated to misinform readership. The most employed strategies are mistranslated, partly quoted, and out of context Quranic verses; fake information; distorted ideas about women and the concept of jihad.
A progressive Islamic movement and its response to the issues of the ummah
Authors: Qodir Zuly , Jubba Hasse , Hidayati Mega , Abdullah Irwan , Long Ahmad Sunawari
Published: December 2020

This article discusses the progressive Islamic movement developed by Muhammadiyah, a modernist Islamic organization established by Ahmad Dahlan on November 18, 1918. History has shown that Muhammadiyah, as a modernist Islamic organization, has instigated various social transformations that continue to affect Indonesian society by creating schools, hospitals, and orphanages that were inspired by modern, Westernized systems and modernist interpretations of the Qur'an. Even today, Muhammadiyah remains active in national activities and discourse, continuously responding to the ever-changing times. This article departs from the argument that the progressive movement developed by Muhammadiyah was translated from Ahmad Dahlan's desire to advance the ummah and to create a just and prosperous world, one that has been blessed by God. As such, it argues that Muhammadiyah's response to the problems of its ummah has been informed by the history of the movement and its founders.
Analysis of Bilingual Teaching Reform Measures of "Digital signal processing"
Authors: Ma Lun , Liu Ruochen , Ming Yang
Published: December 2020

In many fields such as remote sensing, communication, control, radar, power electronics, artificial intelligence, biomedicine, etc., "digital signal processing technology" will be involved. In order to better promote the healthy development of digital signal processing technology related industries and cultivate more and more professionals in this field, it is of great practical significance to actively explore the bilingual teaching reform measures of "digital signal processing". This paper discusses the problems existing in the bilingual teaching and the reform measures of bilingual teaching of "digital signal processing", hoping to improve the teaching quality of "digital signal processing" course in colleges and universities in China through its bilingual teaching reform.
Legal Issues in Mental Health Education in Universities
Authors: Zhao Dongmei
Published: December 2020

College students as an important backbone to achieve national rejuvenation, so to ensure students' mental health, and to establish the correct values and ideological and moral levels, becomes a problem that teachers in colleges and universities need to focus on solving. Effectively solving high-quality legal problems in mental health education can not only ensure the smooth progress of teaching work, but also accurately handle students' psychological problems and enable them to develop better. This article starts from multiple angles and seeks to solve the legal problems arising in the process of mental health teaching, hoping to provide reference for education peers.
Research on the Application of Flipped Classroom Teaching Mode in Higher Vocational English Teaching
Authors: Ni Na
Published: December 2020

The rapid development of the information age has caused many teachers to actively choose to introduce the flipped classroom teaching model into teaching activities in order to solve the problems of outdated teaching concepts and poor learning initiative of students. It is hoped that they can fully stimulate students' learning autonomy while achieving established The purpose of high-quality classroom teaching activities. This article starts with the obstacles to the development of English classrooms in vocational colleges, and looks for specific ways to introduce flipped classrooms to carry out English teaching activities, hoping to provide references for other educators.
On the Educational Function of Ideological and Political Education and Its Realization Research for Military Theory Course in Local Colleges and Universities
Authors: Song Song
Published: December 2020

The ideological and political education course in local colleges and universities is the key course to implement the fundamental task of moral education. Setting up ideological and political education course in university stage is a core period for college students to cultivate qualified successors with historical responsibility, patriotism, national belief and socialist construction ability for socialist countries. "Military Theory Course" firmly grasps the educational function of Ideological and political education, always takes patriotism as the main line and enhances students' national defense concept as well as strengthens their awareness of danger in times of peace. This paper analyzes and explores the function of Ideological and political education of military theory course in local colleges and universities, as well as the status quo.
Research on the Practice and Reform of Ideological and Political Teaching in the Course of Electronic Circuit Design and Plate Making Technology
Authors: Sun Hongjun , Yang Zhenshou
Published: December 2020

The course of electronic circuit design and plate making technology is one of the core courses of electronic technology specialty. The teaching goal of this course is to guide students to understand the composition of circuit board, grasp the relevant design steps and concepts, and master the effective application of electronic software, so as to be able to skillfully draw relevant circuit board design drawings, and lay a solid foundation for students' future electronic circuit design, plate making design and production related to the basis of the work. This paper introduces the relationship between electronic circuit design and plate making technology course as well as ideological and political course teaching. It also analyzes the current situation of ideological and political construction of electronic circuit design and plate making technology course, and studies the effective practical countermeasures of ideological and political teaching of electronic circuit design and plate making technology course.
Research on E-commerce Teaching Method in Network Environment
Authors: Zhao Yu
Published: December 2020

E-commerce is a new business model based on the development of the Internet. It can make full use of the advantages and characteristics of the network environment in its professional teaching, and use this to improve the quality of e-commerce teaching and cultivate more talented people E-commerce talents. Based on the actual teaching situation of e-commerce, this article analyzes the current situation of e-commerce teaching under the network environment, and proposes some teaching reform measures for the problems reflected, in order to provide some useful suggestions for the majority of e-commerce teachers to improve the quality of teaching.