bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Improving neurodevelopment in Zika-exposed children: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Waechter Randall , Burgen Kemi S. , Punch Bianca , Evans Roberta , Blackmon Karen , Noël Trevor , Fernandes Michelle , Landon Barbara 
Published: March 2022

BackgroundWhile microcephaly is a significant adverse outcome of prenatal exposure to the Zika virus (ZIKV), subtle malformations of cortical development (MCD) have been observed in Zika-exposed children (ZEC), including delays in language, cognition, and motor domains, and visual acuity deficits. Interventions within the first 1,000 days of life can significantly improve developmental outcomes. This study examined a 12-week Responsive Caregiving Intervention on neurodevelopmental outcomes in 24-30-month-old ZEC.Methodology/Principal findingsA randomized controlled trial was implemented in Grenada, West Indies using an existing ZIKV cohort surveillance study. When children in that study turned 24 months, baseline child neurodevelopmental measures and caregiver interviews were administered. Caregivers who agreed to participate in the 12-week Responsive Caregiving Intervention, implemented when children were 24–30 months of age, were randomly assigned to the Intervention or Waitlist Control group. Children in both groups were re-assessed on the neurodevelopmental measures post-intervention.Conclusions/Significance233 children from the ZIKV surveillance study met inclusion criteria, of which n = 80 declined participation, n = 42 did not complete the Intervention, and n = 72 missed follow-up assessments given strict timelines in the study design. The final sample for analysis was N = 13 children in the Intervention group and N = 26 children in the Control group. A GEE model analysis showed significantly higher language (p = 0.021) and positive behaviour (p = 0.005) scores for children in the Intervention group compared to the Control group. The Intervention had a medium effect on child language (d = 0.66) and a large effect on positive behaviour (d = 0.83). A 12-week Responsive Caregiving Intervention Programme significantly improves language and positive behaviour scores in 30-month-old normocephalic children who were exposed to ZIKVin utero. The programme provides an option for mothers of ZIKV-exposed children who are seeking an evidence-based neurodevelopmental intervention regardless of known impact of the virus on cortical formation.Trial registrationThe study was registered with clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04697147).
High mortality among hospitalized adult patients with COVID-19 pneumonia in Peru: A single centre retrospective cohort study
Authors: Mas-Ubillus Guiliana , Ortiz Pedro J. , Huaringa-Marcelo Jorge , Sarzo-Miranda Paola , Muñoz-Aguirre Patricia , Diaz-Ramos Alejandra , Arribasplata-Purizaca Kattia , Mendoza Doris , Rojas-Poma Juan , Marcelo-Ruiz Cristian , Ayala-Diaz Pedro , Hidalgo-Arroyo Edwin , Tupia-Cespedes Lourdes 
Published: March 2022

Background
Peru is the country with the world’s highest COVID-19 death rate per capita. Characteristics associated with increased mortality among adult patients with COVID-19 pneumonia in this setting are not well described.

Methods
Retrospective, single-center cohort study including 1537 adult patients hospitalized with a diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia between May 2020 and August 2020 at a national hospital in Lima, Peru. The primary outcome measure was in-hospital mortality.

Results
In-hospital mortality was 49.71%. The mean age was 60 ± 14.25 years, and 68.38% were males. We found an association between mortality and inflammatory markers, mainly leukocytes, D-dimer, lactate dehydrogenase, C-reactive protein and ferritin. A multivariate model adjusted for age, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and corticosteroid use demonstrated that in-hospital mortality was associated with greater age (RR: 2.01, 95%CI: 1.59–2.52) and a higher level of oxygen requirement (RR: 2.77, 95%CI: 2.13–3.62). Conclusions: In-hospital mortality among COVID-19 patients in Peru is high and is associated with greater age and higher oxygen requirements.
Non-Parametric Mean Curvature Flow with Prescribed Contact Angle in Riemannian Products
Authors: Casteras Jean-Baptiste , Heinonen Esko , Holopainen Ilkka , De Lira Jorge H. 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Assuming that there exists a translating soliton u
∞ with speed C in a domain Ω and with prescribed contact angle on ∂Ω, we prove that a graphical solution to the mean curvature flow with the same prescribed contact angle converges to u
∞ + Ct as t →∞. We also generalize the recent existence result of Gao, Ma, Wang and Weng to non-Euclidean settings under suitable bounds on convexity of Ω and Ricci curvature in Ω.
In vitro metabolic biomodulation of irinotecan to increase potency and reduce dose-limiting toxicity by inhibition of SN-38 glucuronide formation
Authors: Crane Rachel A. , Grubb Emery S. , Coward Lori U. , Gorman Greg S. 
Published: March 2022

Abstract

Objectives
Colorectal cancer continues to have one of the highest incidents of occurrence with a rising rate of diagnosis among people under the age of 50. Chemotherapy with irinotecan results in severe gastrointestinal dose-limiting toxicity that is caused by the glucuronidated form of the active metabolite (SN-38G). This study evaluates herbal compounds and analogs to biomodulate the metabolism of IR to decrease dose-limiting toxicity while increasing the amount of the active metabolite.

Methods

In vitro metabolism using human liver microsomes was conducted with white willow bark (WWB) extract, select specific components of WWB, and analogues to evaluate biomodulation of the IR metabolism. Samples were analyzed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry to measure metabolites between reactions with and without herbals components.

Results
WWB showed an optimal decrease (>80%) in SN-38G and a corresponding increase in SN-38 levels (128%) at a concentration of near 200 μg/mL. Tannic acid produced a 75% decrease in SN-38G with a 130% increase in SN-38 at 10 μg/mL, whereas the treatment with beta-pentagalloyl glucose and various analogues decreased SN-38G by 70% and increased SN-38 by 20% at 10 μg/mL.

Conclusions
These results suggest naturally occurring compounds from WWB may have the potential to increase potency by increasing the conversion of IR to SN-38 and decrease dose-limiting toxicity of IR chemotherapy by reducing glucuronidation of SN-38.
Case study from Slovak University of Technology, Bratislava
Authors: Velichová Daniela , Gabková Jana , Letavaj Peter 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Analysis of the experimental results presented in the following chapter reveals experiences with introduction of active learning methods in basic mathematics courses at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava. Experiment was implemented in the academic year 2018/19, in basic courses Mathematics I and Mathematics II scheduled in the first year of bachelor study programs and in subject Basics of Statistical Analysis for bachelor students in the second year of their studies. The aim of the experiment was to find achieved level of knowledge acquisition and to compare abilities of students to solve mathematical problems individually or by collective work and collaboration in small groups. Anonymous questionnaire answered by students after completion of the experiment provided rich feedback and overview of their opinions, from which their attitudes towards different teaching methods applied in 3 compulsory subjects from their study programs could be deduced and summarised. Based on received data, research analysed also results that students achieved comparing their achievement from the secondary schools and in both maths courses at the university.
Approaches to manage and understand student engagement in programming
Authors: Tavares Paula Correia , Gomes Elsa Ferreira , Henriques Pedro Rangel , Vieira Diogo Manuel 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Computer Programming Learners usually fail to get approved in introductory courses because solving problems using computers is a complex task. The most important reason for that failure is concerned with motivation; motivation strongly impacts on the learning process. In this paper we discuss how techniques like program animation, and automatic evaluation can be combined to help the teacher in Computer Programming courses. In the article, PEP system will be introduced to explain how it supports teachers in classroom and how it engages students on study sessions outside the classroom. To support that work, students’ motivation was studied; to complement that study, a survey involving students attending the first year of Algorithms and Programming course of an Engineering degree was done. It is also presented a tool to analyse surveys, using association rules.
Effects of carbon nanotubes on mechanical behavior of fiber reinforced composite under static loading
Authors: Kaboglu Cihan , Ferik Erdem 
Published: March 2022

AbstractThe purpose of this research article is to show the effect of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) addition on fiber reinforced polymer matrix composites produced by the vacuum infusion method on tensile performance. In this study, glass, carbon, and fiber fabric reinforced polymer matrix composite plates were produced using glass, carbon and aramid fiber fabrics with the same weave type and similar areal density. Using the same production parameters, the composite plates reinforced with different fiber types were produced with CNTs addition by 0.5 wt% of total composite. Additionally, since it is thought that the effect of CNTs on performance in different fiber types may be different, hybrid fiber fabric reinforced composite plate material containing a composition of glass, carbon and fiber fabrics was produced and this material was produced with CNTs additive using the same production parameters as in previous fiber reinforced composite plate productions. In the study, composite plates with and without CNTs were produced in various compositions including glass, carbon, aramid, and hybrid fiber fabrics. As a result, CNTs reinforcement has increased the mechanical performance under tensile stress in glass, carbon, and hybrid reinforced fabric composite structures, but on aramid fiber, CNTs has decreased the performance.
An approach for obtaining surface residual stress based on indentation test and strain measurement
Authors: Xue He , Jia Yu-Lei , Lu Jing-Zhi , Wang Shuang , Wang Zheng , Wang Shuai 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
During the welding process of welded joints in nuclear power plants, uneven deformation caused by temperature changes will lead to the generation of residual stress. Aiming at the problem that the demarcate experiment is easy to cause errors when the traditional indentation strain method is used to measure the residual stress. Using 316L austenitic stainless steel as an example, ABAQUS finite element simulation is combined with physical experiments to study the effects of different indentation depths on the strain increment after unloading under a state of residual stress. The results show that the indentation depth and strain increment are linearly related. Based on the linear relationship, an independent parameter that characterizes the residual stress is obtained and a model between the parameter and residual stress established. It provides a certain basis for the convenience and precise detection of residual stress in nuclear power plants machinery structures in service.
Structural design optimization of the arc spring and dual-mass flywheel integrated with different optimization methods
Authors: Yildiz Ahmet , Yilmaz Önder , Karabulut Hüseyin 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
This paper is about the structural design optimization of the torsional arc spring and the dual-mass flywheel (DMF) using three different population-based optimization techniques: Particle swarm optimization (PSO), differential evolution (DE), and genetic algorithm (GA). For this purpose, the equations of the motions of the vehicle powertrain are derived and implemented into the dynamic analysis to minimize the vehicle torsional vibrations. The parameters and initial angles of the arc spring are optimized by considering the objective function that is the sum of the maximum acceleration amplitudes of the crankshaft vibrations. The results demonstrated that the proposed design procedure is able to provide a proper arc spring and DMF inertias to reduce the torsional vibration significantly. Moreover, it is indicated that the DE optimization techniques provide best performances than others. Finally, it is also shown that the natural frequencies can be reduced by the DMF and the optimization results are under the idling critical speed of the engine. The obtained results of this paper are of utmost importance for the arc spring manufacturer about the design process considering both DMF and spring parameters simultaneously to minimize torsional vibration of the vehicle powertrain.
Learning about Spatial and Temporal Proximity using Tree-Based Methods
Authors: Levin Ines 
Published: March 2022

AbstractLearning about the relationship between distance to landmarks and events and phenomena of interest is a multi-faceted problem, as it may require taking into account multiple dimensions, including: spatial position of landmarks, timing of events taking place over time, and attributes of occurrences and locations. Here I show that tree-based methods are well suited for the study of these questions as they allow exploring the relationship between proximity metrics and outcomes of interest in a non-parametric and data-driven manner. I illustrate the usefulness of tree-based methods vis-à-vis conventional regression methods by examining the association between: (i) distance to border crossings along the US-Mexico border and support for immigration reform, and (ii) distance to mass shootings and support for gun control.
Kinetics of acid blue 40 dye degradation under solar light in the presence of CuO nanoparticles synthesized using Citrullus lanatus seeds extract
Authors: Aslam Arfa , Bhatti Haq N. , Fatima Shumaila , Ain Hiratul , Bibi Sadia , Ibrahim Sobhy M. , Iqbal Munawar 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
In view of eco-benign nature of green synthesis, in the present investigation, the CuO NPs are prepared using Citrullus lanatus seeds extract and photocatalytic degradation efficiency for Acid Blue 40 (AB-40) was evaluated. The CuO NPs were characterized by XRD (X-ray diffraction), SEM (scanning electron microscopy), EDX (energy dispersive X-ray), and FT-IR (Fourier transform infrared) techniques. The synthesized CuO NPs was in face centered monoclinic crystalline form with particle size in 40–60 nm range. The photocatalytic degradation potential of CuO NPs was assessed for acid blue 40 (AB-40) dye degradation and catalyst dose, concentration of dye, radiation exposure time and pH are considered for dye removal. The CuO NPs exhibited auspicious efficiency, an 84.89% dye removal was attained at optimal conditions and dye degradation followed BMG (Behnajady–Modirshahla–Ghanbery) kinetics model. Results revealed CuO NPs synthesized using C. lanatus seeds extract is photoactive catalyst and green route can be employed for CuO NPs fabrication for photocatalytic applications.
Kompetenzorientierte Arbeitsplanung
Authors: Meyer Gerrit , Merwart Michael , Denkena Berend , Nyhuis Peter 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Mitarbeiterkompetenzen stellen einen Schlüsselfaktor zur Verbesserung der Produktivität und Flexibilität in der Produktion dar. Sie finden in der Arbeitsplanung bisher jedoch keine hinreichende Berücksichtigung. In diesem Beitrag werden daher eine Methodik zur technologie- und kompetenzorientierten Arbeitsplanung dargestellt und Handlungsanweisungen zur integrierten Arbeitsplanung abgeleitet. Die Evaluation der Methodik erfolgte im Rahmen der webbasierten Weiterbildung CAPE.*
Kapazitätsflexibilität in der Produktion
Authors: Busse Tim Daniel , Nywlt Johannes , Nyhuis Peter 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Das derzeitige Umfeld von produzierenden Unternehmen lässt sich durch eine hohe Dynamik, zunehmende Turbulenzen und knappe Ressourcen beschreiben. Als Differenzierungsmerkmal kommt der logistischen Leistungsfähigkeit dabei eine hohe Bedeutung zu. Insbesondere ist es für Unternehmen wichtig, Kapazitäten flexibel einsetzen zu können. Der Einfluss der Kapazitätsflexibilität auf das logistische Systemverhalten wird im Rahmen dieses Beitrags vorgestellt.
Can dysglycemia in OGTT be predicted by baseline parameters in patients with PCOS?
Authors: Livadas Sarantis , Bothou Christina , Kuliczkowska-Płaksej Justyna , Robeva Ralitsa , Vryonidou Andromahi , Macut Jelica Bjekic , Androulakis Ioannis , Opalic Milica , Mouslech Zadalla , Milewicz Andrej , Gambineri Alessandra , Panidis Dimitrios , Macut Djuro 
Published: March 2022

Background
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is considered a risk factor for the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, which is the most appropriate way to evaluate dysglycemia in women with PCOS and who are at increased risk are as yet unclear.

Aim of the study
To determine the prevalence of T2DM, impaired glucose tolerance (IGT), and impaired fasting glucose (IFG) in PCOS women and potential factors to identify those at risk.

Subjects and methods
The oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), biochemical/hormonal profile, and ovarian ultrasound data from 1614 Caucasian women with PCOS and 362 controls were analyzed in this cross-sectional multicenter study. The data were categorized according to age and BMI.

Results
Dysglycemia (T2DM, IGT, and IFG according to World Health Organization criteria) was more frequent in the PCOS group compared to controls: 2.2% vs 0.8%, P = 0.04; 9.5% vs 7.4%, P = 0.038; 14.2% vs 9.1%, P = 0.002, respectively. OGTT was essential for T2DM diagnosis, since in 88% of them basal glucose values were inconclusive for diagnosis. The presence of either T2DM or IFG was irrespective of age (P = 0.54) and BMI (P = 0.32), although the latter was associated with IGT (P = 0.021). There was no impact of age and BMI status on the prevalence of T2DM or IFG. Regression analysis revealed a role for age, BMI, fat deposition, androgens, and insulin resistance for dysglycemia. However, none of the factors prevailed as a useful marker employed in clinical practice.

Conclusions
One-third of our cohort of PCOS women with either T2DM or IGT displayed normal fasting glucose values but without confirming any specific predictor for dysglycemic condition. Hence, the evaluation of glycemic status using OGTT in all women with PCOS is strongly supported.
A New Entity of Walled off Extra Pancreatic Necrosis is Associated with Better Outcomes Following Endoscopic Transmural Drainage
Authors: Rana Surinder S , Bush Nikhil , Kang Mandeep , Gupta Rajesh 
Published: March 2022

Background and Aims: Previous studies have shown that patients with extra-pancreatic necrosis (EPN) alone are associated with better outcomes than patients with pancreatic necrosis (PN) in acute pancreatitis (AP). The natural history and drainage outcome of pancreatic collections resulting from PN vs. EPN has not been studied.
Methods: Clinical records of a prospectively maintained cohort of AP patients who underwent endoscopic drainage of walled of necrosis (WON) were reviewed. Computed tomography (CT) done on day 4 to 7 of illness was reviewed to identify EPN alone (Group 1) or PN with or without EPN (Group 2). Group 1 and 2 were compared for WON characteristics, as well as outcome and adverse effects of endoscopic drainage.
Results: Seventy-one patients in Group 2 (57 males; mean age 38.6±11.5 years) were compared with sixteen patients in Group 1 (12 males; mean age 34.5±10.8 years). WON developing in Group 2 were significantly larger (11.7±2.8 cm vs. 9.5±2.03 cm) with higher solid necrotic debris (30.4±9.8% vs. 13.7±7.2%). Endoscopic transmural drainage of WON associated with PN required a greater number of direct endoscopic necrosectomy (DEN) sessions along with a longer time for resolution. The time taken for resolution correlated with size (r=0.629, p <0.01) and solid debris content (r=0.647, p<0.01), which were significantly higher in the PN group.
Conclusions: This new entity of walled of extra pancreatic necrosis alone has lesser solid necrotic debris and its endoscopic drainage is associated with better outcomes as compared to patients with walled off pancreatic necrosis.
Productividad del pasto Cuba OM-22 (Pennisetum purpureum x Pennisetum glaucum) con distintas dosis de fertilización nitrogenada
Authors: Cerdas Ramírez Roberto , Villalobos Edgar Vidal Vega , Rojas Jorge Claudio Vargas 
Published: March 2022

Se realizó un ensayo para evaluar el comportamiento productivo del pasto Cuba OM-22, en Santa Cruz, Guanacaste, localidad situada a 54 msnm, con una precipitación anual de 1834 mm. Se evaluó la producción de biomasa verde y seca, el contenido y la producción de proteína cruda por hectárea y el contenido de macronutrientes y micronutrientes del Cuba OM-22 sometido a cuatro dosis de nitrógeno, con cortes a los de 56 días: 50, 100, 150 y 200 kg N ha-1. El rendimiento de biomasa seca varió con las dosis de N aplicado, lo cual produjo 6,7 t, 8,5 t, 10,9 t y 11,3 t MS.ha-1 corte-1, la tasa de crecimiento de biomasa presentó valores de 120 kg, 152 kg, 195 kg y 201 kg MS ha-1 día-1, la producción de proteína cruda por hectárea fue de 459 kg, 751 kg, 1180 kg y 1459 kg PC ha-1 corte-1, con la aplicación de 50 kg, 100 kg, 150 kg y 200 kg N ha-1 corte-1 respectivamente. Todos los nutrientes se presentaron en cantidades adecuadas para la salud y producción animal, con la excepción del potasio (K), que mostró valores superiores a 3,0% de la materia seca, con las dosis de 150 y 200 kg N ha-1 corte-1. Se recomienda aplicar al pasto Cuba OM-22, 150 kg N ha-1 por corte de 56 días.
Authentic cultural communication: A collaborative Intercampus Cultural Awareness Project
Authors: Sánchez Víquez Andrea , Boes Naderer Joan Marie 
Published: March 2022

This investigation acknowledges and explores the cultural differences within the Costa Rican society by performing a cultural awareness project with university students from the same course but in different regions of the country. It will outline from both the professors and the students’ perspectives how the project was successful and effectively met the course objectives. Through a quantitative analysis, this article claims that inter-campus projects present an authentic opportunity for successful intercultural communication and also significant opportunities for collaborative teaching.