bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Persistent Organic Pollutants in Urban Soils of Central of London, England, UK: Measurement and Spatial Modelling of Black Carbon (BC), Petroleum Hydrocarbons (TPH), Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAH) and Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCB)
Authors:   British Geological Survey , Keyworth , Nottingham, NG12 5GG, UK, Vane Christopher H. , Kim Alexander W. ,   British Geological Survey , Keyworth , Nottingham, NG12 5GG, UK, Beriro Darren ,   British Geological Survey , Keyworth , Nottingham, NG12 5GG, UK, Cave Mark R. ,   British Geological Survey , Keyworth , Nottingham, NG12 5GG, UK, Moss-Hayes Vicky ,   British Geological Survey , Keyworth , Nottingham, NG12 5GG, UK, Santos Raquel A. Lopes dos ,   British Geological Survey , Keyworth , Nottingham, NG12 5GG, UK, Ferreira Antonio M.P.J. ,   British Geological Survey , Keyworth , Nottingham, NG12 5GG, UK, Collins Christopher ,   Department Geography and Environmental Science, University of Reading, Reading, RG6 6DW, UK, Nathanail C. Paul ,   Land Quality Management, Nottingham NG7 2RD & GHD UK Nottingham, UK, Lowe Stephen R. ,   British Geological Survey , Keyworth , Nottingham, NG12 5GG, UK,   Department Geography and Environmental Science, University of Reading, Reading, RG6 6DW, UK
Published: June 2021

Total organic carbon (TOC), black carbon (BC), total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) were determined in 73 surface (0-2 cm) and subsurface (5-20 cm) soil samples taken from a 142 km2 area in Central London, UK. Soils were assessed to provide a baseline chemistry for site owners, developers, occupiers and regulators involved in understanding the potential risk to human health and the environment. TOC range was 1.75-11.85 % (mean 5.82 %), BC 3.72-32.71 mg.g-1 (mean 13.8 mg.g-1), TPH 72-4673 mg.g-1 (mean 443 mg.g-1), Σ16PAH 1.64-421.23 mg.g-1 (mean 47.99 mg.g-1) and Σ7PCB 2.56-148.72 µg.kg-1 (mean 20.82 µg.kg-1). Surface soils were less polluted than sub-surface soils due to a decline in industry, power generation, coal burning and traffic. PAH and PCB showed a stronger affinity for BC than TOC and were higher than many other international cities. South east London (Greenwich, Woolwich, Deptford) had the highest PAH pollution. Source PAH ratios confirmed a combustion/urban road run-off origin with minor petroleum inputs. Random Forest spatial modelling (machine learning) revealed large scale pollution trends across London soils. Normal background concentrations (NBC) were calculated and compared to risk-based human health generic assessment criteria (GAC). Benz[a]anthracene, benzo[a]pyrene, benzo[b]fluoranthene, and dibenzo[a]anthracene exceeded the Land Quality Management GACs for three land uses (residential, allotments and public open space near residential housing). The NBC determined for ∑7PCBs (110 µg.kg-1) and dioxin-like PCB 118 (59 µg.kg-1) exceeded the residential and allotment soil guideline values.
Interconnected Operations of Electric Vehicle to Grid and Microgrid
Authors:   Department of Electrical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan, ROC, Kumar Ganisetti Vijay , Lu Min-Ze ,   Department of Electrical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan, ROC, Liaw Chang-Ming ,   Department of Electrical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan, ROC
Published: June 2021

This paper presents the development of a high-performance electric vehicle (EV) synchronous reluctance motor (SynRM) drive and its vehicle-to-grid (V2G) and vehicle-to-microgrid (V2M) bidirectional operations. The EV motor drive boostable DC-link voltage is established by a battery through a bilateral interface boost-buck DC-DC converter for good driving performance over a wide speed range. The motor efficiency is 92.3% near the rated load. In idle conditions, the embedded interface converter and inverter of the motor drive can be arranged to perform the G2V/V2G operations by adding external LC low-pass filters. The on-board battery can be charged from the mains in G2V mode with good line-drawn power quality. Alternatively, in V2G mode, the battery can send the preset power back to the utility grid with good current waveform quality. Besides, the same schematics can also conduct the M2V/V2M operations. A wind switched-reluctance generator (SRG) based microgrid is used as a test plant. The EV mobile energy storage application to microgrids is successfully offered through the arranged controls for effectively utilizing renewable sources. The measured results verify the normal operations with satisfactory performances for all power stages and operation cases.
A Cloud-Based Solution to Support Patient Outreach and Engagement for Chronic Disease and Preventative Care-A Retrospective Study (Preprint)
Authors: Rizvi Rubina , Suarez Fernando , Wang Suwei , Preininger Anita , Draulis Karlis , Felix Winnie , Scivittaro Vincenzo , Chowdhury Bablu , Sepulveda Martin , Jackson Gretchen
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND

Patients more actively engaged in their care have better clinical outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the performance of a widely adopted cloud-based patient engagement system for management of diabetes, hypertension, and preventative screenings at two large healthcare systems.

METHODS

We included patients with diabetes, hypertension, and those due for breast cancer screenings and/or bi-annual wellness visits and at Loudon Medical Group (LMG) in Virginia, and Basset Medical Group (BMG) in New York between 2019-2021. We examined outreach outcomes including successful contact rate (SCR), patient response rate (PRR), and adherent response rate (ARR). Associations between demographic characteristics and outcome measures were explored with Chi-square or Fisher’s exact tests.

RESULTS

Attempted contacts with patients with diabetes (N=2567) at LMG resulted in SCR of 87.1%, PRR of 47.2%, and ARR of 38.4%. At BMG, attempted contacts with patients with diabetes (N=3621), hypertension (N=10881), patients for breast cancer screening (N=2441), and wellness visits (N=9070) resulted in SCR values of 91.0%, 93.2%, 90.1%, and 92.1%; PRR of 57.0%, 59.8%, 50.8%, and 52.0%; and ARR of 45.2%, 39.8%, 6.8%, and 11.5% respectively. Outreach outcomes measures were significantly higher in patients with hypertension, and those carrying commercial or Medicare insurance vs. those who were self-insured or on Medicaid plans (SCR P<.0001, PRR P<.0001, and ARR P=.0013). Among diabetic patients, only SCR (P=.0008) was significantly associated with commercial or Medicare insurance. In general, rate of contact (SCR) had more favorable results as compared to the rate of follow-up visits (PRR, ARR), with higher PRR significantly associated with female sex (P<.0001), and a higher SCR seen among patients contacted by text (P<.0001). Age-stratified analysis showed that 60-69 years old diabetic patients had the highest SCR and ARR. Hypertensive patients between the ages of 70-79 had the highest SCR, PRR, and ARR.

CONCLUSIONS

This cloud-based patient outreach system demonstrated high rates of contact in patients with hypertension, diabetes and/or eligible for preventative screenings. Overall response rates were over 50%, with moderate adherence rates for diabetes and hypertension, but low adherence for preventative screenings. Older patients had higher adherence rates. Additional strategies are needed to translate successful patient contact into response and adherence.

CLINICALTRIAL

NA
Harmonized procedure coding system for surgical procedures of five European countries (Preprint)
Authors: Mellinghoff Sibylle , Bruns Carolin , Al-Monajjed Rouvier , Cornely Florian , Grosheva Maria , Hampl Juergen , Jakob Carolin , Koehler Felix , Lechmann Max , Maged Bijan , Otto-Lambertz Christina , Rongisch Robert , Rutz Jule , Salmanton-Garcia Jon , Schlachtenberger Georg , Stemler Jannik , Vehreschild Janne , Wuelfing Sophia , Cornely Oliver , Liss Blasius
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND

Surgical site infections (SSI) are frequent hospital acquired complications. Ongoing surveillance pro-grams evaluate the incidence of SSI worldwide. However, incidence rates are only estimated by the analyses of indicator procedures to date.

OBJECTIVE

To further assess procedure specific SSI rates, the harmonization of international procedure codes is necessary.

METHODS

We compared existing surgical procedure coding systems of five European countries (France, Ger-many, Italy, Spain, and the UK) and distributed a simplified code to all existing country-specific codes. Based on mode and extent of the surgical procedure and the surgical site, 153 codes were defined, distributed, and characterized within the presented coding system. Additionally, minimally invasive, laparoscopic or open surgical approaches were considered, whereas eye surgery and di-agnostic procedures were excluded.

RESULTS

A total number of 15432 surgical procedures were assigned to 153 SALT codes from 10 specialties. Almost 4000 (26%) procedure codes from the SALT coding system were classified as orthopaedic and trauma surgeries, thus this medical field represents the most diverse group within the SALT coding system, followed by abdominal surgical procedures with 2390 (15%) procedure codes.

CONCLUSIONS

The Europe-wide SALT procedure code gives the opportunity to harmonize big data sets containing surgical procedures from international centres, and may simplify comparability of future interna-tional trial findings.
Mixed Reality and Haptic–Based Dental Simulator for Tooth Preparation: Research, Development, and Preliminary Evaluation (Preprint)
Authors: Li Yaning , Ye Hongqiang , Wu Siyu , Zhao Xiaohan , Liu Yunsong , Lv Longwei , Zhang Ping , Zhang Xiao , Zhou Yongsheng
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND

Virtual reality (VR) dental simulators are currently used in preclinical skills training. However, with the development of extended reality technologies, the use of mixed reality (MR) has shown significant advantages over VR.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to describe the research and development of a newly developed MR and haptic–based dental simulator for tooth preparation and to conduct a preliminary evaluation of its face validity.

METHODS

A prototype of the MR dental simulator for tooth preparation was developed by integrating a head-mounted display (HMD), special force feedback handles, a foot pedal, computer hardware, and software program. We recruited 34 participants and divided them into the Novice group (n=17) and Skilled group (n=17) based on their clinical experience. All participants prepared a maxillary right central incisor for an all-ceramic crown in the dental simulator, completed a questionnaire afterward about their simulation experience, and evaluated hardware and software aspects of the dental simulator.

RESULTS

Of the participants, 74% (25/34) were satisfied with the overall experience of using the Unidental MR Simulator. Approximately 90% (31/34, 91%) agreed that it could stimulate their interest in learning, and 82% (28/34) were willing to use it for skills training in the future. Differences between the 2 study groups in their experience with the HMD (resolution: P=.95; wearing comfort: P=.10), dental instruments (P=.95), force feedback of the tooth (P=.08), simulation of the tooth preparation process (P=.79), overall experience with the simulation (P=.47), and attitude toward the simulator (improves skills: P=.47; suitable for learning: P=.36; willing to use: P=.89; inspiring for learning: P=.63) were not significant. The Novice group was more satisfied with the simulator’s ease of use (P=.04). There were significant positive correlations between the overall experience with the simulation and the HMD’s resolution (P=.03) and simulation of the preparation process (P=.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The newly developed Unidental MR Simulator for tooth preparation has good face validity. It can achieve a higher degree of resemblance to the real clinical treatment environment by improving the positional adjustment of the simulated patients, for a better training experience in dental skills.
Influence of Calcination Temperature on Size, Morphology and Optical Properties of ZNO/C Composite Synthesized by a Colloidal Method
Authors: Lhimr Siham , Bouhlassa Saidati , Ammary Bouchaib
Published: June 2021

ZnO is one of the most studied semiconductor materials because of its interesting chemicals, and from a technological point of view, mainly as a consequence of their outstanding properties, such as wurtzite type, non-toxic nature, large band gap, low cost, and environment-friendly. In this work, the ZnO/C composite was synthesized by a simple and fast low-temperature method; the solid product was calcination temperature at 100 to 400 °C. The influence of variation in calcination temperature was studied using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and UV-visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. The X-ray diffraction patterns indicated a high crystallinity and a nanocrystalline size of the ZnO/C composite hexagonal structure of wurtzite. The SEM image of the samples showed that the powder has a spherical structure of flakes aggregated in the common nucleus like a grid. The sphere consists of spindle and flower-like structures. The optical properties were determined by UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, and it was found that the band gap energy of ZnO/C composite increase from 3.210 to 3.329 eV with an increase in calcination temperature from 100 to 400 °C. FTIR spectra and EDS analysis showed that the existence of carbon in the composite.
Potentiality of Graphene Oxide and Polyoxometalate as Radionuclides Adsorbent to Restore the Environment after Fukushima Disaster: A Mini Review
Authors: Nugroho Bangun Satrio , Wihadi Muh Nur Khoiru , Grote Fabian , Eigler Siegfried , Nakashima Satoru
Published: June 2021

This paper discusses the promising candidate of excellent materials, graphene oxide (GO) and polyoxometalates (POMs), for radionuclide adsorbent. In this perspective, the unique properties of GO and POMs make them ideal candidates for developing new composites having the ability to adsorb radionuclides, and several essential things are reviewed. First, the anchoring mechanism to deposit POM on the GO surface area by (i) carboxylation method, (ii) covalent bonding, and (iii) impregnation method. Second, the radionuclides removal mechanism is described in several systems: (i) coagulation, (ii) electrostatic interaction, (iii) ion trapping, and (iv) H+-exchange. Third, the experimental condition that employed to enlarge the sorption capacity such as (i) pH adjustment, (ii) employing multiple oxidations, and (iii) cation charge. A thorough understanding of the POM-anchored GO material can pave the way for future research on similar materials. It can also help in understanding the nature of the interactive collaboration present between GO and POM.
Carotenoid Analysis from Commercial Banana Cultivars (Musa spp.) in Malang, East Java, Indonesia
Authors: Jodiawan Jodiawan , Chrisdiyanti Devi Natalia , Vi’atin Nur , Prihastyanti Monika Nur Utami , Chandra Rosita Dwi , Heriyanto Heriyanto , Siswanti Chandra Ayu , Hapsari Lia , Brotosudarmo Tatas Hardo Panintingjati
Published: June 2021

Banana, as the world’s most consumed fruit, is a good source of carbohydrate, potassium, fiber, and other essential nutrients such as pro-vitamin A carotenoids. The carotenoid content and composition in bananas commonly sold in fruit shops in Malang have become interesting studies. Five types of banana, i.e. Berlin, Mas, Cavendish, Candi and Raja were characterized using high-performance liquid chromatography and UV-Vis spectrophotometer. The carotenoid concentrations ranged between 347–3,660 µg/100 g dry weight (dw), with the level of vitamin A activity at the range between 6-139 µg RAE/100 g dw. The Mas banana had a higher carotenoid concentration compared to the Berlin, Candi, Raja, and Cavendish varieties.
Correlation between social support and the achievement of the development of self-concept to deaf children 7 – 12 years
Authors: Nurmalasari Siti , Susanto Tantut , Nur Kholid Rosyidi Muhammad
Published: June 2021

Children with deaf have a disability in language and communication because they cannot hear and understand their environment, so that is not uncommon for people around them to assume that children with deaf cannot live in the social environment. This matter shows the community to deaf children where it can affect children's self-concept with the deaf. This research aims to analyze the correlations between social support and self-concept in children with the deaf. A cross-sectional study was used to examine 51 children with deaf 7 – 12 years selected with a convenience sampling method. The questionnaire consisted of identity data used to measure participant characteristics. Social Support Questionnaire for children (SSQC) was used to measure social support and the Self-Description Questionnaire to measure self-concept. The Chi-Square test is used to answer the objectives of this study. From 51 respondents, 44 (86.3%) deaf children received good social support, with the most social support obtained from 36 friends (70.6%) and siblings 36 (70.6%). Of the five components of social support, only social support from friends and siblings most resulted in low-deaf children's self-concept. There was a relationship between social support and the self-concept of deaf children (Z = 1.833; p-value = 0.034). Support from various sources is needed for deaf children to develop self-concept in their social life. Therefore, the child's social environment needs to provide adequate social support for developing an excellent deaf child's self-concept.
Barrier to health protocol adherence during exercise among youth in the COVID-19 pandemic era
Authors: Silvano Fitrawan , Yashifa Amila , Saragih Daniel Simada Pandapotan , Gunawan Claudia , Wuragil Aningdyanungtias Inas , Mandariska Resa Paksi , Supriyati Supriyati
Published: June 2021

Physical inactivity is one of the non-communicable disease risk factors. This study discusses how the Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) has increased the leisure time, including among youth. The health promotion to improve the physical activities of youth is needed. This study aimed to analyze the level of compliance among Indonesian people particularly the young adults towards health protocol during exercise and conduct an intervention accordingly. This study used an action research design, with consecutive sampling. Respondents were Indonesian young adults who exercise outside of their homes during the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 361 Indonesian young adults aged 18-25 years old, who exercise during the pandemic inside and/or outside the home, and willing to answer the questionnaire completed the online questionnaire. The questionnaire was developed from the six health protocols’ criteria from the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia. Data analysis used chi-squared tests. Furthermore, a short video was developed according to the main research findings and published on Instagram TV as a health intervention to the respondents. The results showed that the level of compliance among Indonesian young adults toward health protocol during exercise was low (24.1%). Moreover, only 35.3% of respondents applied physical distancing and 48.7% of respondents wore masks during at low-moderate intensity exercise. There was no significant association between gender, exercise intensity, and perception of the health protocol and the compliance of health protocol during exercise. In addition, the audience response toward the video campaign about health protocol during exercise was good with more than 1,000 views, 166 likes, and 50 comments. This study concluded that health promotion media that were developed based on the needs assessment results were effective to reach the target audiences.
Improving pregnancy care during the COVID-19 pandemic for pregnant women as vulnerable groups through assistance at the primary health care facility
Authors: Jauhar Muhamad , Lestari Kurniati Puji
Published: June 2021

Since it was found in December 2019, the novel Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has spread from Wuhan, China, to many other countries. A rapid increase of newly found cases was observed, and finally, in March 2020, the World Health Organization declared that Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a global pandemic. As one of the vulnerable groups, pregnant women need to avoid COVID-19 transmission and maintain pregnancy health during the pandemic. This study aimed to improve pregnant women's self-management during the COVID-19 pandemic in the working area of the Padangsari Primary Health Care Services, Semarang City. The research method used an experimental design with a pre-posttest without a control group. A Smartphone application, namely "SEHARI," was used to share the module and video about pregnancy health guidelines; furthermore, various activities of this study included online classes for pregnant women via a WhatsApp group, pregnancy care behavior surveys, and evaluations. The offline activity was done in 1 meeting for 90-120 minutes, while online activities were done as needed. This study's target population was 22 pregnant women in  Puskesmas Padangsari Semarang City's working area selected by purposive sampling. A questionnaire was used that measures mother's behavior while engaging in pregnancy care and pregnancy examination screening. The validity and reliability tests showed that the instrument was valid and reliable to improve self-management of pregnant women during the COVID-19 pandemic in the working area. Bivariate data analysis of the independent variable's effect on the dependent variables used paired and independent t-tests to measure the self-management of pregnant women. The results showed that 50% of pregnant women fulfilled nutritional needs well, 59.1% of pregnant women did tetanus immunization, and 59.1% did pregnancy examinations and visits. Despite being a vulnerable group, pregnant women must continue their antenatal care during the pandemic with a strict health protocol. Specially designed online classes and Smartphone application can be used as media to deliver the essential health meassages so that pregnant women can still monitor their pregnancy health and have a way to bridge the existing programs in primary health care.
A biography of the point contact fixator (PC-Fix)
Authors:   Scyon Orthopaedics AG, Hardturmstrasse 103, CH-8005, Zurich, Switzerland, Tepic S , Bresina S
Published: June 2021

Starting in the mid-eighties, the AO (from the German “Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen”) Research Institute (ARI), Davos, Switzerland together with the commercial partners of the AO Foundation embarked on a decade-long project to design, develop, test in experimental animals and human clinical trials as well as bring to clinical use a new system for surgical osteosynthesis. The new plating system, what became known as the Point Contact Fixator (PC-Fix), addressed the shortcomings of the conventional plating by Dynamic Compression Plate (DCP) discovered either by careful examination of the clinical complications or by chance observation and informed inquiry in experimental animals. The focus was on avoiding iatrogenic damage to bone vascularisation caused by the implant design and mechanical function and, thus, aiding efforts of surgeons to preserve vital bone tissue needed for healing. Infections have been and will remain a great concern in all surgery. Preservation of blood perfusion of traumatised bone is of paramount importance to reduce the risk of infection, especially in view of the emergence and the accelerated spread of bacterial resistance to antibiotics. Prof. Stephan Perren led this project in all its stages with his unique insight and wisdom. Unfortunately, due to the complex interplay of factors guiding the interests of the AO Foundation and its commercial partners, the findings of the PC-Fix project became watered down with implant systems that followed the DCP. The message of “keep the perfusion” faded into “lock the screws”. The potential benefits of PC-Fix have been lost for millions of trauma patients.
Developing an Instrument to Measure Information Assurance Implementation for eGovernment using Goal Question Metric Approach
Authors: Utomo Rio Guntur , Wills Gary , Walters Robert
Published: June 2021

The eGovernment initiative is aimed to improve government services to the public by improving the quality and availability of services that can be accessed regardless of time and place. Consequently, the services must always be available at any time, and any threat to the information and systems should receive attention to ensure business continuity in the event of an incident. Therefore, in implementing eGovernment, information assurance (IA) must be considered. To determine the extent to which IA implementation status to protect eGovernment services in Indonesia, it is necessary to measure the implementation using an instrument. The measurement instrument was developed using the Goal Question Metric (GQM) approach. The developed instrument was then used in a case study to test its effectiveness in measuring the IA implementation. From the results of the case study, it can be concluded that the IA measurement instrument for eGovernment was proven to be effective within Indonesian context.
Comparison Analysis of Multipath Routing Implementation in Software Defined Network
Authors: Syaifuddin Syaifuddin , Azis Muhamad Fathul , Sumadi Fauzi Dwi Setiawan
Published: June 2021

Multipath routing is a path search method used as a data transmission process utilizing more than one available path on a network. The multipath routing concept is directed to substitute the single path routing concept for reducing network traffic congestion by distributing data transmission through several available paths. It can be implemented in the Software Defined Network (SDN) environment that separates the control plane and the data plane, which provides flexibility by deploying application-based solutions to resolve the problem. This paper is directed to implement the modified Deep First Search (DFS) multipath routing algorithm and compare the proposed method with Dijkstra and normal DFS multipath algorithm. The contribution was designed by combining the node, edge, path, and bucket weight using port statistics available in OpenFlow standard and manual calculation. The results of the system’s emulation showed that the overall algorithm could determine more than one path for the data transmission process. The average execution time on all algorithms produced 0.0903 ms for the modified DFS multipath algorithm, 0.0858 ms for DFS multipath algorithm, and 0.901 ms Dijkstra multipath algorithm, respectively. The QoS parameter testing results illustrated that the proposed method was better than another multipath routing algorithm in terms of throughput and jitter. However, based on packet loss percentage, the modified method was placed after normal DFS but still generated better results than Dijkstra. Overall, the implement multipath routing concept in SDN with all algorithms could be deployed to provide more than one data transmission path.
Efficient Bayesian phase estimation using mixed priors
Authors: van den Berg Ewout
Published: June 2021

We describe an efficient implementation of Bayesian quantum phase estimation in the presence of noise and multiple eigenstates. The main contribution of this work is the dynamic switching between different representations of the phase distributions, namely truncated Fourier series and normal distributions. The Fourier-series representation has the advantage of being exact in many cases, but suffers from increasing complexity with each update of the prior. This necessitates truncation of the series, which eventually causes the distribution to become unstable. We derive bounds on the error in representing normal distributions with a truncated Fourier series, and use these to decide when to switch to the normal-distribution representation. This representation is much simpler, and was proposed in conjunction with rejection filtering for approximate Bayesian updates. We show that, in many cases, the update can be done exactly using analytic expressions, thereby greatly reducing the time complexity of the updates. Finally, when dealing with a superposition of several eigenstates, we need to estimate the relative weights. This can be formulated as a convex optimization problem, which we solve using a gradient-projection algorithm. By updating the weights at exponentially scaled iterations we greatly reduce the computational complexity without affecting the overall accuracy.
Parámetros poblacionales de Nototropis minikoi y Ampithoe longimana (Crustacea: Amphipoda) en dos Islas del Mar Caribe mexicano
Authors: Cházaro-Olvera Sergio , Ortiz Manuel , Winfield Ignacio , Viveros-Villaseñor Brizeida
Published: June 2021

Se analizó la estructura de la población, el crecimiento, la fecundidad y la supervivencia de Nototropis minikoi y Ampithoe longimana en Isla Contoy e Isla Mujeres del caribe mexicano. Se midieron la temperatura, salinidad y oxígeno disuelto in situ. Se recolectaron un total de 2.815 anfípodos de ambas especies: 1.407 de Nototropis minikoi y 1.408 de Ampithoe longimana. La temperatura presentó valores de 26 a 27 °C, salinidad de 35 a 36 unidades y oxígeno disuelto de 6 a 9 mg L-1. Los juveniles representaron el mayor porcentaje con 55 a 73% en N. minikoi y del 57 a 67% en A. longimana. Con el método de Bhattacharya se encontraron de 4 a 5 clases modales. Con el modelo de von Bertalanffy se encontró que las hembras presentaron la mayor longitud máxima con 10,88 mm (k= 0,35) y 14,54 mm (k= 0,24) en N. minikoi y A. longimana, respectivamente. El promedio de huevos fue de 6,83 ± 4,50 a 8,55 ± 5,22 en N. minikoi y 7,55 ± 4,82 a 8,33 ± 3,79 en A. longimana. La supervivencia fue de 13,70 y 36,63% para N. minikoi y de 13,31 y 28,11% para A. longimana, lo cual corresponde a especies con estrategia “r”. Los resultados evidenciaron una relación costo-beneficio entre los parámetros poblacionales, dado que a una tasa de crecimiento lenta y un mayor número de clases modales se alcanzan tamaños máximos mayores.
Size selectivity and optimal soaking time of hoops and traps targeting the blue swimming crab Callinectes arcuatus in Cuyutlan Lagoon, Mexico
Authors: Salas-Maldonado Mauricio , Espino-Barr Elaine , Marín-Enríquez Emigdio , Bartoleño-Sánchez Alberto , Valdez-Carrazco Leonardo Daniel
Published: June 2021

The selectivity of two types of commercial fishing gear (crab hoop/traditional gear and rigid rectangular cage traps) targeting blue crabs (Callinectes arcuatus) in Cuyutlan Lagoon, Mexico, was assessed. The effect of soak time on crab catches versus the retention and escape rate of organisms was also evaluated. Results suggested that traps captured larger individuals than hoops. The carapace width of crabs was significantly different between the fishing gears used: 63.9% of crabs caught with hoops were < 95 mm (sizes ranged from 40 to 113 mm) and 40.7% of crabs caught with traps were < 95 mm (range: 49 to 120 mm). Results also showed that catch rates were high during the first two hours and decreased after the third hour. The crabs tended to escape after several hours of soak time. The study found that the traps captured larger crabs than the hoops, suggesting that traps are a suitable fishing gear for catching blue swimming crabs in Cuyutlan Lagoon.
Observations on the early development of the kelpfish Myxodes viridis (Clinidae) with the first description of their spawning habitat in subtidal kelp forests (Lessonia trabeculata)
Authors: Ruz Catalina S. , Garmendia Vladimir , Muñoz-Cordovez Rodrigo , Wieters Evie , Pérez-Matus Alejandro
Published: June 2021

The spawning sites, embryonic development, and initial larval stages were described for the Chilean kelpfish, Myxodes viridis. Six different egg clutches were found attached by an elastic filament to the fronds of the subtidal kelp, Lessonia trabeculata, at shallow depths (0-7 m). All egg clutches were cared by one large (>15 cm TL) male, and egg color varied depending on the developmental stage. Embryonic development until hatching was categorized into 7 stages, which were completed within about 18 days in the laboratory. Recently hatched larvae presented fully pigmented eyes, a well-developed mouth with major shape changes in the head during the first week suggesting their ability to feed on plankton early in their larval development.
HALAL CERTIFICATION PROCEDURE IN MALAYSIA AND INDONESIA
Authors: AB LATIFF JOHARI
Published: June 2021

Pharmaceutical products deals with different component of materials or substances and its whole process are more critical than food products. Malaysia has launched and implemented the Malaysian Standard MS 2424:2012 Halal Pharmaceuticals-General Guidelines since 2012 on halal pharmaceuticals and to the pharmaceutical manufacturers. The government of Indonesia also making halal labelling on all products mandatory in Indonesia by 2019. This momentum of halal certification for pharmaceutical products by both countries need to be enhance by improving the initiatives the implementation of standard and guidelines. The objectives of the study are to explain the concept of halal pharmaceuticals based on halal certification procedure in Malaysia and Indonesia, to examining the evidence from the Holy Al-Quran, as-Sunnah and dalil due to the determination of halal pharmaceuticals products, to analyse general principles based on Islamic law to the determination of halal pharmaceutical products and to identify a new method based on Islamic principles in determining the halal pharmaceutical products. In general, the qualitative method is used in this study, the data collection methods are through document analysis. The findings of this study. First, in understanding the concept of halal pharmaceuticals in Malaysia and Indonesia it is basically not only based on Islamic law alone, but also subject to the criteria and regulations enforced in both countries. Second, the Islamic principle of halal and haram, darurah and fatwa is a basis or general Islamic principle applicable to determine halal pharmaceuticals products. Third, the comprehensive method or criteria for determination of halal pharmaceutical products is encompassing the principle of pharmaceuticals derived from halal substances, materials, the principle of Maslahah, the principle of Ihtiyathand the principle of Istihalah Tammah.
ISLAMIC SHARIA IN ACEH AND ITS IMPLICATIONS IN OTHER REGIONS IN INDONESIA
Authors: Huda Yasrul
Published: June 2021

Considering the development of various regional regulations in West Sumatra, there are some things that need to be noted. First, the desire to make regional regulations consuisting sharia is more dominated by the desires of certain political parties. It is not supported by other government agencies in the form of existing local regulation follow-up even though the political party always claims that the regulation is the desire of the wider community. Consequently, it is difficult to reject the impression that the presence of these regulations is solely for the political interests of parties, or the interests of heads of government. Second, the emergence of these regulations is highly determined by the figures driving the emergence of these regulations. So, when they are no longer in their positions, then the attention to the implementation of these regulations is reduced or nonexistent. Third, there are differences of opinion or understanding among regional leaders that overcoming the problem of poverty, problems in education and the economy is far more important than just making sharia regulations. As a result of the accumulation of these three things, the momentum of the emergence of the need for sharia regulations often appears and then disappears and then reappears following certain events in the community; like in the month of Ramadan or other Islamic celebrations.
Corporate governance of state-owned enterprises and their role in the society: How has it changed during COVID-19?
Authors: Di Tommaso Francesco
Published: June 2021

We can start talking about the COVID-19 pandemic as an unprecedented shock that has required unique responses from many corporations. Understanding how they have responded is of first-order importance for the fields of corporate governance, corporate finance and stewardship. While some insights begin to emerge, others will take time and depend on more complete data sets to become available, such as financial statements and governance records for 2020. Such data typically come from annual reports and proxy statements. US companies with an end of the fiscal year on December, 31 hold their annual meetings in the spring. They typically file their annual reports by the end of March, but in 2019, some 30 percent of the 7,000 reports were filed in April and later. While firms also publish quarterly data, most release comprehensive annual data only 90 days after their fiscal year end, so the earliest date that a large sample of data on US firms will be available is April 2021. These dates may be similar or even later for firms in other countries
A bibliometric analysis of family business: Insights from interdisciplinary studies
Authors: Bekiaris Michalis , Papanastasiou Pantelis
Published: June 2021

This study explored the family businesses and their contribution to the economy, analyzed the distinctive features of the governance systems of these types of businesses. The European Commission recognizes a significant role the family businesses in the EU economy and promotes the creation of a favorable environment where family businesses can grow and develop. This study aims to identify key contributors, key areas, current dynamics, and suggests future research directions in the field of the family business using bibliometric analysis and visualization tools. This study is one of a few that combine a bibliometric analysis and literature review on family business research
Performance of Islamic financial institutions: Viable option in Canada?
Authors: Gouiaa Raef , Tidiani Gaspard Pierre-Richard
Published: June 2021

The North American financial system is one of the only alternatives available to individuals and businesses to be able to deal with all matters relating to savings and investment. By analyzing the two economic crises (1929 & 2008), it’s possible to see how fragile the financial system can be at times. All these events have made consumers more conscientious about managing their money and consumption. Many individuals see traditional finance as the only way to properly secure their future savings. Islamic finance (IF) has been growing rapidly in recent years. This increase in popularity is mainly due to the fact that, in some countries, Islamic finance is the only option available. There is a growing number of countries adopting Islamic finance, but the concept remains almost unknown in Canada and other developed countries. The Canadian financial market is considered to be very conservative and has been using the same practices for a long time. The economies of some countries such as England have adopted a strategy of including Islamic finance in their market and this has produced very satisfactory results. This type of practice could be relevant to the Canadian market.
Beyond the looking glass… What could ‘fit-for-future-purpose’ governance operating models look like in the future?
Authors: Blomson Dean
Published: June 2021

This study explored the suitability and current relevance of board operating models. That paper highlighted challenges relating to the suitability of prevailing board operating models and posited some alternative board governance models as a provocation. While a considerable amount of academic and commercial research focuses on current board issues, performance drivers, etc., there is little apparent futuristic thinking, i.e., consideration of the broader changes that will be likely that could inform, modify, accelerate or possibly negate current thinking on what boards should be doing to be effective.
From pillars to new horizons in corporate governance research
Authors: Hundal Shab , Kostyuk Alex , Govorun Dmytro
Published: June 2021

This international online conference ― Corporate Governance: A Search for Emerging Trends in the Pandemic Times held by the team and international scholarly network of Virtus Global Center for Corporate Governance is an excellent platform to present, discuss and share the most recent ideas in the corporate governance research. This conference is the third scholarly online forum held by the team of Virtus GCCR since May 2020. There are more than 20 accepted presentations from scholars from various countries of the world. Such sort of joint efforts of scholars is a bridge to the new horizons in corporate governance research, especially in the time of the pandemic
The use of management accounting in western Austrian family businesses: An empirical analysis
Authors: Situm Mario , Märk Stefan , Kathan Markus
Published: June 2021

Within the scope of this study, western Austrian companies were analysed for the use of management accounting (MA). From the sample of 692 family enterprises in western Austria, relevant variables were collected to explain the use of MA and the differences between enterprises with and without MA were examined using logistic regression. The most important drivers for which the probability of using MA increases are the size of the company and the presence of a third-party manager. In addition, the results show that the older the management and the more likely it is to be female, the probability of using MA decreases. The results partially confirm the theoretical assumptions of the resource-based view (RBV) and the principal-agent theory (PAT). However, both approaches cannot provide a complete explanation for the use of MA, because the entanglement of family, ownership, and possessions means that other variables are relevant, which should be tested using other theory strands. The study is the first to deal with the problems faced by western Austrian family businesses. It could be confirmed that certain variables, which also had explanatory power in earlier studies, can also explain the use of MA in this study. In addition, it could be shown that gender and management training do not play a role in explaining the use of MA
A growing interest in creativity is opening up new roles for the designer- but also creating a need for clarification of these roles
Authors: Bente Irminger
Published: June 2021

In recent years, “Design Thinking” as an interdisciplinary innovation process has increasingly led trade and industry and the public sector to take an interest in the design profession. While this profession has traditionally been related to the design of products and shaping of surroundings, today design can also concern methods and processes, making the profession relevant for additional areas of society. In this article, we present some key characteristics of the design profession today, and also discuss which expectations and different designer roles newly qualified designers meet and may come to meet in the future.
H63D Syndrome: data and facts
Authors: Diamandis Dr. Carolina , Adams Jacob S
Published: June 2021

Ever since I co-founded the International H63D Research Consortium, I
have always considered it my duty to pass on the most important
knowledge about H63D syndrome to my colleagues in academia, research and
applied medicine.

Before I leave the consortium for a new career step, there are still
some data to be published, which my current colleagues will certainly
work on in more detail at a later stage. After all, knowledge can save
lives and prevent suffering. I will publish these data in the following,
because they speak for themselves.
GIP receptor antagonist treatment causes weight loss in ovariectomized high fat diet-fed mice
Authors: Boer Geke Aline , Hunt Jenna , Gabe Maria , Windeløv Johanne , Sparre-Ulricht Alexander , Hartmann Bolette , Holst Jens , Rosenkilde Mette
Published: June 2021

Background and purpose The incretin hormone, glucose-dependent
insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), secreted by the enteroendocrine
K-cells in the proximal intestine, may regulate lipid metabolism and
adiposity but its exact role in these processes is unclear. Experimental
approach We characterized in vitro and in vivo antagonistic properties
of a novel GIP analogue, mGIPAnt-1. We further assessed the in vivo
pharmacokinetic profile of this antagonist, as well as its ability to
affect high-fat diet (HFD)-induced body weight gain in ovariectomized
mice during an 8-week treatment period. Key results mGIPAnt-1 showed
competitive antagonistic properties to the GIP receptor (GIPR) in vitro
as it inhibited GIP-induced cAMP accumulation in COS-7 cells.
Furthermore, mGIPAnt-1 was capable of inhibiting GIP-induced
glucoregulatory and insulinotropic effects in vivo and has a favourable
pharmacokinetic profile with a half-life of 7.2 hours in C57Bl6 female
mice. Finally, sub-chronic treatment with mGIPAnt-1 in ovariectomized
HFD mice resulted in a reduction of body weight and fat mass. Conclusion
and Implications mGIPAnt-1 successfully inhibited acute GIP-induced
effects in vitro and in vivo and sub-chronically induces resistance to
HFD-induced weight gain in ovariectomized mice. Our results support the
development of GIP antagonists for the therapy of obesity.
Evaluation of horizontal condylar angle in malocclusions with mandibular lateral displacement using cone-beam computed tomography
Authors: Velásquez Roberto L. , Coro Jorge C. , Bustillo José M. , Sato Sadao
Published: June 2021

Objectives

To evaluate the horizontal condylar angle (HCA) in mandibular lateral displacement (MLD).

Materials and Methods

HCA in MLD malocclusions were examined using cone-beam computed tomography data in subjects with MLD and control subjects.

Results

HCA in joints of control patients and contralateral side joints of MLD patients were not significantly different. The mean HCA on the shifted side was larger than on the contralateral side (P < .001) in the different HCA groups. HCA was significantly larger on the shifted side than on the contralateral side in skeletal Class I, Class II, and Class III groups (P < .001).

Conclusions

(1) There was no statistically significant difference between HCA in control patients and on the contralateral side in MLD patients. (2) HCA was significantly larger on the shifted side than on the contralateral side. (3) HCA on the shifted side and the contralateral side in MLD Class I, Class II, and Class III are significantly different.