bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dyspareunia, Signs of Epithelial Disruption, and HIV Serostatus in Female Sex Workers and Men Who Have Sex With Men in Nairobi: an Observational Study
Authors: Fischer Bastian , Jaoko Walter Godfrey , Kirui Elvis , Muture Bernard , Madegwa Isaac , Kageni Lisbeth
Published: July 2021

Background: This study investigated HIV infection risk in men who have sex with men (MSM) and female sex workers (FSWs) by analysing signs of anal and vaginal epithelial trauma. It reconsidered the unique role of sexual abstinence for HIV seroconversion from a previous case-control analysis on FSWs in Nairobi who acquired HIV after previously fulfilling criteria of HIV resistance. The approach was based on a similarly unique role of intercourse frequency for anal dyspareunia. We considered confounding behavioural and individual HIV infection risks among the sex workers, who also assessed factors influencing discomfort and pain during sex from a subjective perspective. Methods: At two key population facilities in Nairobi, 322 FSWs and 231 MSM provided data on HIV infection status, sexual dysfunction, intercourse frequency and abstinence behaviour. Additional data addressed sexual debut, relationship status, lubricants, foreplay, the number of sex partners, condom use, group and anonymous sex, vaginal births, intravaginal practices, sex toys, other sexually transmitted infections, alcohol and drug use. Statistical tests included t-tests for the equality of means for abstinence gaps and intercourse frequencies, the number of sex partners, vaginal births, and age of sexual debut. Non-parametric tests were used to compare HIV status and the ordinal variables of sexual behaviour, individual factors, dyspareunia and signs of trauma scores. Subjective assessments of variables for sexual dysfunction were given as percentages of the assessment options. Results: Among FSWs, significant associations were found between HIV status and the longest abstinence gap for vaginal intercourse in the previous month, early sexual debut, foreplay, having anonymous partners, intravaginal practices, drugs and alcohol use, and all the sexual dysfunction or epithelial disruption signs. No significant association between HIV status and sexual dysfunction variables or sexual abstinence gaps could be found in the MSM sample. FSWs agreed that steady partnerships, regularity of intercourse, foreplay and lubrication or artificial lubricants alleviate discomfort and painful intercourse. Conclusions: Dyspareunia and epithelial trauma signs were highly prevalent in FSWs and MSM, indicating considerable limitations to sexual health. Complaint levels were positively associated with HIV infection, suggesting that reducing epithelial disruption may be a novel HIV prevention approach.
Plant Growth Regulators Modify Fruit Set, Fruit Quality, and Return Bloom in Sweet Cherry
Authors: Sabir Irfan Ali , Liu Xunju , Jiu Songtao , Whiting Matthew , Zhang Caixi
Published: July 2021

Sweet cherry (Prunus avium L.) is a valuable fruit crop worldwide. Farmers’ incomes are closely related to fruit quantity and quality, yet these can be highly variable across years. As part of a broader project for optimizing fruit set and fruit quality in sweet cherries, this study was conducted to evaluate the potential of various plant growth regulators (PGRs) for improving fruit set and fruit quality. Cytokinins, gibberellins, auxin, and polyamines were used as treatments. Treatments were applied as foliar sprays at full bloom to ‘Bing’ and three low-productivity genotypes, ‘Regina’, ‘Tieton’, and ‘PC8011-3’. We assessed the fruit set, fruit quality, and return bloom from each treatment. 4-chlorophenoxyacetic acid (4-CPA) increased fruit set by 53% and 36% in ‘Bing’ and ‘Tieton’, respectively. The combination of gibberellin (GA)3 + GA4/7 was more effective for improving fruit set than other isomers of gibberellin alone. Cytokinin treatments had slight adverse effects or no effect on fruit set except for CPPU. In ‘PC8011-3’, both N-(2-chloro-4-pyridyl)-N'-phenylurea (CPPU) and 4-CPA enhanced fruit set by ≈81% and 100% compared with untreated control. The response of cherry trees to polyamine sprays depended on the properties of the cultivars and the treatment concentration. Foliar application of GA3, GA4/7, or N-phenyl-N'-(1, 2, 3-thiadiazol-5-yl) urea (TDZ) in ‘Bing’ trees has negative effects on return bloom, whereas GA1 can increase the yield and flower buds. These results suggest that PGRs may have varied effects on sweet cherry fruit set and that more work is needed to develop practical programs for improving yield security.
Antitranspirants Partially Mitigate Auxin Herbicide Injury on Tomato Plants
Authors: Warmund Michele R. , Trinklein David H. , Ellersieck Mark R. , Smeda Reid J.
Published: July 2021

The use of dicamba and 2,4-D products on herbicide-tolerant crops has resulted in numerous cases of off-target movement and injury to sensitive plants, including tomato (Solanum lycopersicon L.). Two greenhouse studies were conducted to determine whether ‘Big Beef’ (‘BB’) or ‘Florida 91’ (‘FL’) tomato plants pretreated with an antitranspirant, including Moisture-Loc (ML) at 100 mL·L−1, TransFilm (TF) at 50 g·L−1, or Wilt-Pruf (WP) at 100 mL·L−1, mitigated injury from synthetic auxin herbicides. Dicamba or 2,4-D was applied at a rate corresponding to 1/200 of the manufacturer’s labeled rate of 0.56 kg ae/ha or 1.06 kg ae/ha, respectively. At 2 weeks after treatment (WAT), plants treated with ML or WP before either herbicide exhibited injury symptoms, but they were always less severe than those treated with the herbicide alone for both cultivars. However, shoot length measurements indicated that none of the antitranspirants consistently provided protection against herbicide injury at 2 WAT. By 12 WAT, ML or WP used before either herbicide increased the number of live reproductive organs compared with dicamba or 2,4-D alone for both cultivars. Floral abortion on tomato plants was also reduced when ML or WP was applied before an herbicide treatment by 12 WAT. Although WP and ML did not provide complete protection against synthetic auxin herbicide injury, the concept of using film-forming barriers may be useful in mitigating some of the short-term effects of drift on plants.
Numerical simulation of the thermal regime of an underground spent fuel storage facility (built-in structure variant)
Authors: Amosov Pavel Vasilyevich
Published: July 2021

The results of a numerical simulation of the thermal regime of an underground facility for long-term storage of spent nuclear fuel in a built-in reinforced concrete structure are presented. Two computer models were constructed in a three-dimensional formulation in the COMSOL programme. The first model is based on the incompressible fluid approximation, while the second model is based on the "incompressible ideal gas" approximation. The mathematical basis of models: the continuity equation, Navier - Stokes equations averaged by Reynolds, the standard (k - ε) turbulence model, and the general heat transfer equation. Consideration of mixed convection conditions is implemented in the "incompressible ideal gas" approximation, where the air density is a function of temperature only. The most thermally stressful arrangement of spent fuel placement is investigated: U-Zr - defective - U-Be. The air rate is varied in the range from 21 to 0.656 m3/s. Numerical experiments were performed for up to 5 years of fuel storage. The principal difference between the non-stationary structure of the velocity fields predicted in the "incompressible ideal gas" model and the "frozen" picture of the aerodynamic parameters in the incompressible fluid model is emphasized. It is shown that the requirements for exceeding the temperature limit values are met when the object operates under conservative ventilation conditions (rate 0.656 m3/s) with a minimum of costs for organizing ventilation. The dynamics of heat flows directed into the rock mass through the base and from the surface of the built-in structure of the U-Zr fuel compartment to the air environment are analyzed. The predominance of the heat flow from the surface of the structure and the different times when the curves of the heat flow dynamics reach their maximum values are noted. The heat flow to the array reaches its maximum significantly faster than to the air.
Sampling for vegetative propagation: A phytosanitary status survey of grapevines collection by One Step RT-PCR method
Authors: Yzeiraj M.
Published: July 2021

Purpose. Grapevines (Vitis spp.) are affected by many viral diseases which cause serious pathological problems. GLRaV-3 is among the most widespread leafroll viruses, while Grapevine Fanleaf Virus (GFLV) is a destructive pathogen which reduces the lifespan of grapevine. Considering the impact and the spread of these diseases, our objective was to analyse the presence of these two viruses in several grapevine varieties in grapevine collection at ATTC Vlore. Data gathered from plant pathogens serve to better understand and prevent the spread of pathogens, as a mandatory rule for the quality control of certified plant material during vegetative propagation.
Method. The presence of two common viruses were tested using virus specific primers; LC1/LC2 primer pair designed from the hHSP70 gene for detecting Grapevine Leafroll-associated Virus-3 (GLRaV3) and C3390/H2999 primer pair, designed from coat protein coding regions for detecting Grapevine Fanleaf Virus (GFLV), in six varieties; ‘Merlot’, ‘Kallmet’, ‘Shesh i zi’, ‘Shesh i bardhё’, ‘Debinё’, and ‘Pulёz’, provided through a randomised sampling procedure. One Step Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction assay was used to detect the viral presence.
Results showed a high (100%) prevalence of GLRaV3 virus in all of analysed samples, as the most frequent among the two pathogens. Analysis for of GFLV virus showed low infection rate, being present in only one sample.
Conclusions. We herein show an efficient, fast and reproducible method for detecting grapevine viruses through one step RT-PCR. Our results suggest that sampling of the infected plant material should be avoided due to the presence of viral infections.
Roles of autoinducer-2 mediated quorum sensing in wastewater treatment
Authors: Liu Yirong , Hu Huizhi , Luo Feng
Published: July 2021

Quorum sensing (QS) is considered to be a promising regulation method for biological wastewater treatment (WWT) due to its regulation in extracellular substances (EPS) production, biofilm formation, granulation, colonization and bacterial activity and stability. Recently, autoinducer-2 (AI-2), a kind of interspecies communication QS signal molecule, is being increasingly reported for its roles in regulating bacterial gene expression and aggregation. Consequently, AI-2 mediated QS system is considered as a promising regulatory approach in WWT processes. This article systematically reviews the effects of AI-2-mediated QS system on bacterial behavior and its high potential for real-world applications in different WWT systems. Given the extensive presence of AI-2, AI-2 mediated QS could cooperate with other signal molecules in WWT processes, which suggests that the interactions among multiple signal molecules might be underestimated in the previous studies. The differences between AI-2 and AHL signaling molecules are also compared. Furthermore, the attempts at AI-2 regulated QS in pollution control of different WWT systems are summarized, while some challenges and defects still require targeted research in the future.
Environmental Factors Modifying HDL Functionality
Authors: Kostara Christina E. , Kosmas Constantine E. , Sourlas Andreas , Guzman Eliscer
Published: July 2021

Background:

Currently, it has been recognized that High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) functionality plays a much more essential role in protection from atherosclerosis than circulating HDLcholesterol (HDL-C) levels per se. Cholesterol efflux capacity (CEC) from macrophages to HDL has been shown to be a key metric of HDL functionality. Thus, quantitative assessment of CEC may be an important tool for the evaluation of HDL functionality, as improvement of HDL function may lead to a reduction of the risk for Cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Introduction:

Although the cardioprotective action of HDLs is exerted mainly through their involvement in the reverse cholesterol transport (RCT) pathway, HDLs have also important anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiaggregatory and anticoagulant properties that contribute to their favorable cardiovascular effects. Certain genetic, pathophysiologic, disease states and environmental conditions may influence the cardioprotective effects of HDL either by inducing modifications in lipidome and/or protein composition, or in the enzymes responsible for HDL metabolism. On the other hand, certain healthy habits or pharmacologic interventions may actually favorably affect HDL functionality.

Method:

The present review discusses the effects of environmental factors, including obesity, smoking, alcohol consumption, dietary habits, various pharmacologic interventions, as well as aerobic exercise, on HDL functionality.

Result:

Experimental and clinical studies or pharmacological interventions support the impact of these environmental factors in the modification of HDL functionality, although the involved mechanisms are not fully understood.

Conclusion:

Further research should be conducted to identify the underlying mechanisms of these environmental factors and to identify new pharmacologic interventions capable of enhancing CEC, improving HDL functionality and potentially improving cardiovascular risk.
Innovations in Drug Delivery for Chronic Wound Healing
Authors: Ghomi Erfan Rezvani , Shakiba Mohamadreza , Ardahaei Ali Saedi , Kenari Mahsa Akbari , Faraji Mehdi , Ataei Shahla , Kohansal Parisa , Jafari Iman , Abdouss Majid , Ramakrishna Seeram
Published: July 2021

:

Wound healing is a varied and complex process designed to restore normal skin structure, function,
and appearance in a timely manner. To achieve this goal, different immune and biological systems participate
in coordination through four separate steps, including homeostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and regeneration.
Each step involves the function of different cells, cytokines, and growth factors. However, chronic ulcers,
which are classified into three types of ulcers, namely vascular ulcers, diabetic ulcers, and pressure ulcers, are
not able to heal through the mentioned natural stages. This, in turn, causes mental and physical problems for these
people and, as a result, imposes high economic and social costs on the society. In this regard, using a system
that can accelerate the healing process of such chronic wounds, as an urgent need in society, should be considered.
Therefore, in this study, the innovations of drug delivery systems for the healing of chronic wounds using
hydrogels, nanomaterials, and membranes are discussed and reviewed.
The Intracellular Mechanism of Berberine-Induced Inhibition of CYP3A4 Activity
Authors: Feng Pan-Feng , Zhu Long-Xun , Jie Jing , Yang Peng-Xiang , Chen Xia
Published: July 2021

Background:

Berberine (BBR) is an isoquinoline alkaloid extracted from the Chinese medicine,
exerting a variety of pharmacological effects. BBR is partially metabolized by cytochrome 3A4 (CYP3A4)
in vivo. Some reports indicated that BBR could inhibit the activity of CYP3A4. However, the underlying mechanisms
are not completely understood. CYP3A4 is reported to be transcriptionally regulated by two nuclear receptors,
nuclear transcription X receptor (PXR) and constitutive androstane receptor (CAR), and degraded via
the ubiquitin-proteasome system. Hence, we tried to explore the mechanisms of CYP3A4 inhibition on both
transcriptive and protein levels.

Methods:

Western Blot, RT-PCR and Co-immunoprecipitation were used to perform the experiments.

Results:

Our results showed that BBR inhibited the transcription of CYP3A4 gene by downregulating PXR. In
addition, BBR accelerated the degradation of CYP3A4 protein via polyubiquitination pathway.

Conclusion:

These findings may lead to the determination of novel drug-drug interactions with BBR, and contribute
to future clinical application of BBR.
Clinical Trials and Machine Learning: Regulatory Approach Review
Authors: Dri Diego Alejandro , Massella Maurizio , Gramaglia Donatella , Marianecci Carlotta , Petraglia Sandra
Published: July 2021

:

Machine Learning, a fast-growing technology, is an application of Artificial Intelligence
that has provided important contributes to drug discovery and clinical development. In the last few
years, the number of clinical applications based on Machine Learning has been constantly growing
and this is now affecting the National Competent Authorities during the assessment of most recently
submitted Clinical Trials that are designed, managed or that are generating data deriving from
the use of Machine Learning or Artificial Intelligence technologies. We review current information
available on the regulatory approach to Clinical Trials and Machine Learning. We also provide inputs
for further reasoning and potential indications, including six actionable proposals for regulators
to proactively drive the upcoming evolution of Clinical Trials within a strong regulatory framework,
focusing on patient’s safety, health protection and fostering immediate access to effective
treatments.
Research on Stability of the Four-wheeled Robot for Emergency Obstacle Avoidance on the Slope
Authors: Wang Peng , Tang Qiong , Sun Tiecheng , Dong Renquan
Published: July 2021

Background:

In recent years, patents suggest that four-wheeled robots have been widely used in outdoor reconnaissance fields. However, the emergency obstacle avoidance of the four-wheeled robot on the slope is affected by the slope angle and the friction coefficient of the slope, and its motor torque and yaw torque are prone to abrupt changes, causing the four-wheeled robot to slip greatly. According to relevant literature, PID control methods (dual-loop PID control and linear PID control) make the robot control motor current fluctuate greatly during the emergency obstacle avoidance process. Hence, the PID controller of the four-wheeled robot needs to be optimized.

Objective:

This study aims to establish a novel dual-loop fuzzy PID controller to improve the stability of the four-wheeled robot during emergency obstacle avoidance on the slope.

Methods:

Establishing the kinematics and dynamics equations of the four-wheeled robot, and determining the speed of the center of mass and the yaw rate are important control parameters for controlling the steering motion of the robot. Aiming at the PID controller of the past four-wheeled robot, its response speed is slow, and the overshoot of the speed of the center of mass and the yaw rate is large. For this reason, the dual-loop fuzzy PID controller is designed. Comparison simulation is carried out by the MATLAB programming.

Results:

It is concluded that the control effect of the four-wheel robot with the dual-loop fuzzy PID controller is the best. The steering angle and displacement response speed of the four-wheel robot are faster, and there is basically no overshoot. The response of the yaw rate is increased by 30%, the average deviation of the linear motion trajectory is reduced by 41.27%, and the average deviation of the circular steering motion trajectory is reduced by 29.51%.

Conclusion:

The dual-loop fuzzy PID controller can provide reference for the PID control research of other four-wheeled robots.
Strategies for the Identification and Prevention of Survey Fraud: Data Analysis of a Web-Based Survey
Authors: Pratt-Chapman Mandi , Moses Jenna , Arem Hannah
Published: July 2021

Background

To assess the impact of COVID-19 on cancer survivors, we fielded a survey promoted via email and social media in winter 2020. Examination of the data showed suspicious patterns that warranted serious review.

Objective

The aim of this paper is to review the methods used to identify and prevent fraudulent survey responses.

Methods

As precautions, we included a Completely Automated Public Turing test to tell Computers and Humans Apart (CAPTCHA), a hidden question, and instructions for respondents to type a specific word. To identify likely fraudulent data, we defined a priori indicators that warranted elimination or suspicion. If a survey contained two or more suspicious indicators, the survey was eliminated. We examined differences between the retained and eliminated data sets.

Results

Of the total responses (N=1977), nearly three-fourths (n=1408) were dropped and one-fourth (n=569) were retained after data quality checking. Comparisons of the two data sets showed statistically significant differences across almost all demographic characteristics.

Conclusions

Numerous precautions beyond the inclusion of a CAPTCHA are needed when fielding web-based surveys, particularly if a financial incentive is offered.
Skin of Color Representation on Wikipedia: Cross-sectional Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Kim William , Wolfe Sophia M , Zagona-Prizio Caterina , Dellavalle Robert P
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND

Wikipedia is one of the most popular websites and may be a go-to source of health and dermatology education for the general population. Prior research indicates poor skin of color (SOC) photo representation in printed dermatology textbooks and online medical websites, but there has been no such assessment performed to determine whether this discrepancy also exists for Wikipedia.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the number and quality of SOC photos included in Wikipedia’s skin disease pages and to explore the possible ramifications of these findings.

METHODS

Photos of skin diseases from Wikipedia’s “List of Skin Conditions” were assigned by three independent raters as SOC or non-SOC according to the Fitzpatrick system, and were given a quality rating (1-3) based on sharpness, size/resolution, and lighting/exposure.

RESULTS

We identified 421 skin disease Wikipedia pages and 949 images that met our inclusion criteria. Within these pages, 20.7% of images of skin diseases (196 of 949 images) were SOC and 79.3% (753 of 949 images) were non-SOC (P<.001). There was no difference in the average quality for SOC (2.05) and non-SOC (2.03) images (P=.81). However, the photo quality criteria utilized (sharpness, size/resolution, and lighting/exposure) did not capture all aspects of photo quality. Another limitation of this analysis is that the Fitzpatrick skin typing system is prone to subjectivity and was not originally intended to be utilized as a non-self SOC metric.

CONCLUSIONS

There is SOC underrepresentation in the gross number of SOC images for dermatologic conditions on Wikipedia. Wikipedia pages should be updated to include more SOC photos to mend this divide to ameliorate access to accurate dermatology information for the general public and improve health equity within dermatology.
Intervention Use and Symptom Change With Unguided Internet-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Depression During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Log Data Analysis of a Convenience Sample (Preprint)
Authors: Oehler Caroline , Scholze Katharina , Reich Hanna , Sander Christian , Hegerl Ulrich
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND

Internet- and mobile-based interventions are most efficacious in the treatment of depression when they involve some form of guidance, but providing guidance requires resources such as trained personnel, who might not always be available (eg, during lockdowns to contain the COVID-19 pandemic).

OBJECTIVE

The current analysis focuses on changes in symptoms of depression in a guided sample of patients with depression who registered for an internet-based intervention, the iFightDepression tool, as well as the extent of intervention use, compared to an unguided sample. The objective is to further understand the effects of guidance and adherence on the intervention’s potential to induce symptom change.

METHODS

Log data from two convenience samples in German routine care were used to assess symptom change after 6-9 weeks of intervention as well as minimal dose (finishing at least two workshops). A linear regression model with changes in Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) score as a dependent variable and guidance and minimal dose as well as their interaction as independent variables was specified.

RESULTS

Data from 1423 people with symptoms of depression (n=940 unguided, 66.1%) were included in the current analysis. In the linear regression model predicting symptom change, a significant interaction of guidance and minimal dose revealed a specifically greater improvement for patients who received guidance and also worked with the intervention content (β=–1.75, t=–2.37, P=.02), while there was little difference in symptom change due to guidance in the group that did not use the intervention. In this model, the main effect of guidance was only marginally significant (β=–.53, t=–1.78, P=.08).

CONCLUSIONS

Guidance in internet-based interventions for depression is not only an important factor to facilitate adherence, but also seems to further improve results for patients adhering to the intervention compared to those who do the same but without guidance.
Strategies for the Identification and Prevention of Survey Fraud: Data Analysis of a Web-Based Survey (Preprint)
Authors: Pratt-Chapman Mandi , Moses Jenna , Arem Hannah
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND

To assess the impact of COVID-19 on cancer survivors, we fielded a survey promoted via email and social media in winter 2020. Examination of the data showed suspicious patterns that warranted serious review.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this paper is to review the methods used to identify and prevent fraudulent survey responses.

METHODS

As precautions, we included a Completely Automated Public Turing test to tell Computers and Humans Apart (CAPTCHA), a hidden question, and instructions for respondents to type a specific word. To identify likely fraudulent data, we defined a priori indicators that warranted elimination or suspicion. If a survey contained two or more suspicious indicators, the survey was eliminated. We examined differences between the retained and eliminated data sets.

RESULTS

Of the total responses (N=1977), nearly three-fourths (n=1408) were dropped and one-fourth (n=569) were retained after data quality checking. Comparisons of the two data sets showed statistically significant differences across almost all demographic characteristics.

CONCLUSIONS

Numerous precautions beyond the inclusion of a CAPTCHA are needed when fielding web-based surveys, particularly if a financial incentive is offered.
The Effectiveness of a Nonguided Mindfulness App on Perceived Stress in a Nonclinical Dutch Population: Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Kranenburg Leonieke W , Gillis Jamie , Mayer Birgit , Hoogendijk Witte J G
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND

Mindfulness has become increasingly popular, and positive outcomes have been reported for mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) in reducing stress. These findings make room for innovative perspectives on how MBIs could be applied, for instance through mobile health (mHealth).

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to investigate whether a nonguided mindfulness mobile app can decrease perceived stress in a nonclinical Dutch population over the course of 8 weeks, with follow-up at 6 months.

METHODS

A randomized controlled trial was performed to compare an experimental group that made use of a structured 8-week mHealth mindfulness program and a control group after 8 weeks, with follow-up after 6 months. Participants were recruited via a national television program. The primary outcome measure was perceived stress as measured by the Perceived Stress Scale, secondary outcomes were symptoms of burnout (measured using the visual analog scale [VAS]) and psychological symptoms (measured using the Four-Dimensional Symptom Questionnaire [4DSQ] at follow-up). Outcomes were analyzed using a multilevel regression model.

RESULTS

At baseline, 587 respondents were included. Results showed no postintervention differences between groups for the level of perceived stress. With regard to the secondary outcome measures, the VAS for emotional exhaustion and physical exhaustion showed significantly lower scores for the experimental group after 8 weeks (P=.04 and P=.01, respectively), but not at follow-up. There were no differences between groups for psychological symptoms measured using the 4DSQ.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings do not support our hypothesis that using the mindfulness app would reduce stress levels. However, our findings related to diminished exhaustion at 8 weeks are encouraging and require further investigation.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05246800; https://clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT05246800
Neither Coral- nor Symbiont- Genetic Diversity may Explain the Resistance of the Coral Echinopora lamellosa to Bleaching
Authors: Bachtiar Imam , Ghafari Muhammad Irsyad Abiyusfi , Rahman Ibadur , Astriana Baiq Hilda
Published: July 2021

Genetic diversity has an important role in the stability of coral populations in coping with disturbances. In the last three bleaching events, the coral Echinopora lamellosa survived better in the eastern- than the western- Lombok waters that are not related to algal symbiont diversity. The present study aimed to assess the genetic diversity of E. lamellosa from the two locations in the Lombok waters. The ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 (whole ITS region) marker was used to identify and to determine the genetic structure, genetic variation, and demographic pattern of E. lamellosa. The results showed that E. lamellosa of the two locations are two different populations. The haplotype diversity was very high indicating a predominance of sexual reproduction mode for both eastern and western populations. The phylogenetic topology suggests there is possible connectivity between populations, whereas the haplotype network exhibits a restricted gene flow between the two populations.  The results suggest that the present E. lamellosa populations were from both surviving colonies and new recruitment of long-distance larvae. Both population likely shares the same larvae supply brought from source-reefs in the Flores Sea or Makassar Strait by the Indonesian Throughflow. The present and previous studies revealed that genetic diversity alone yet to explain the resistance of E. lamellosa in eastern and western Lombok waters.
Comparison Study Analysis of Vapour Compression Refrigeration System by using Refrigerant R134 a and Mixed Nano-Particle Refrigerant
Authors: Kumar Abhinav
Published: July 2021

Vapour compression refrigeration system (VCRS) fundamentally is the gadget which retains heat from a lower internal heat level and rejects it to the body or climate at higher temperature at the cost of some outside work done on it. It is broadly utilized wherever going from business use in homes and shops to enormous scope and substantial cooling loads in enterprises. They differ in size also, limit according to their cooling prerequisites. To accomplish high cooling loads with lesser energy or force utilization by the blower and work with elite It has continuously been the space of interest for plenty of analysts working in warm designing field. With the coming of nano innovation in each science and innovation field, the field of Refrigeration is likewise now not left immaculate of it. Its been seen that a portion of the metals and its compounds have high warmth dispersal limit, this framed the premise of its utilization in refrigeration. Large numbers of the nano size metal mixtures have been tried with a considerable lot of the refrigerants and ideal fixations have been found to guarantee the improved Coefficient of execution of the VCRS. In this work likewise a special mix is taken and study is to be performed on VCRS. Here the blending of nanoparticles of metal CuO of size 30-50 nm is finished with refrigerant R134a and the endeavor of discovering the ideal fixations is to be finished. Keyword: Evaporator, Compressor, Condenser, Capillary tube, Cooling Fan.
Efficient Platform for Emergency Healthcare Services II
Authors: Suryawanshi Prof. Shubhangi
Published: July 2021

Emergency healthcare services are the most time crucial services in which people operate, as the survival of the patient depends on how the service is operated. As discussed in the previous paper, the weakest link of the healthcare emergency service is the initiation of the emergency services. We had discussed main methodologies in previous paper and a basic generalized system architecture. This paper discusses the core architecture of the sever and with the help of a sequence diagram we will depict how the server will process requests.
SPORT STUDENT TEACHERS’ DISCOURSES ABOUT FEMALE ATHLETES IN MIXED MARTIAL ARTS
Authors: Silva Grasiela Oliveira Santana da , Jaeger Angelita Alice , Silva Paula
Published: July 2021

The historical-cultural process of sport influenced and was influenced by the spaces that men and women have occupied in society by (re)assuring norms and creating cracks. That is how the female body enters the Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). This study analyses discourses over the participation of women athletes in MMA. Qualitative research was conducted using focus groups with students (16 men and 9 women) from the Sports Student Teacher Program of a university located in northern Portugal. QSRNvivo 12 Pro was used for content analysis. MMA is dissociated as a sport and seen as a harmful practice for female fighters’ health, although they recognize it as a female achievement. The inclusion and growing presence of female fighters in MMA is a victory and shapes new relationships with their bodies and femininities.
El despojo de las economías campesinas de la Zona Sur de Costa Rica: Memorias de la Unidad Productiva Potrereña 1950-1980
Authors: Muñoz Calvo Francis
Published: July 2021

Las memorias campesinas de Potrero Grande exponen las repercusiones de los procesos de desarrollo nacional en las localidades de la Zona Sur de Costa Rica. Se analiza el despojo de las economías campesinas de la comunidad de Potrero Grande y su relación con la llegada de las instituciones estatales a mediados del siglo XX. A través de las memorias y otras fuentes históricas, se reconstruirá la historia campesina y las transformaciones socioeconómicas de la etapa desarrollista para la comunidad de Potrero Grande.
Estado y movimientos sociales: Identidades, cruces y estrategias en tensión en América Latina
Authors: Fair Hernán
Published: July 2021

El presente artículo analiza los cruces entre los movimientos sociales y el Estado en América Latina. Se enfoca en una serie de tensiones en las identidades y estrategias de los movimientos sociales y populares y los gobiernos progresistas: lucha socialista-relaciones de producción capitalistas, mercantilización-desmercantilización, participación horizontal-representación vertical, estrategias articulatorias-estrategias particularistas. En la segunda parte, se analizan los problemas de las estrategias ultraparticularistas y de las concepciones binarias y se indaga acerca del rol del Estado en la disputa hegemónica. En la última parte, se examinan los límites y contradicciones de algunos gobiernos progresistas de la región para radicalizar y ampliar la democracia participativa, fortalecer los modos de autogestión comunitaria y el poder popular, potenciar la desmercantilización y avanzar hacia un socialismo democrático.
Lipofibromatous hamartoma of a digital branch of the median nerve: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Barraza-Silva Jorge , Berebichez-Fridman Roberto , Corona-Cobian Lilia , Bernal-López Laura , Martín Raúl Álvarez-San
Published: July 2021

Lipofibromatous hamartoma is an uncommon tumor that causes nerve
enlargement due to fatty adipose tissue infiltration in peripheral
nerves being the median nerve at the carpal tunnel the most commonly
affected site, typically associated with macrodactyly. Here we present a
case which affected a digital branch of the median nerve
A predictive nomogram for choosing tacrolimus or cyclosporine as immunosuppression drugs for pediatric recipients after liver transplantation
Authors: Gao Junda , Zhou Tao , Zong Zhipeng , gu guangxiang , Zhang Jianjun
Published: July 2021

Background: Tacrolimus (TAC) is the first choice of calcineurin
inhibitors (CNIs) for recipients after pediatric LT. But there are some
special pediatric recipients present an unsatisfied prognosis with the
therapy of TAC. We aimed to construct a simple clinical model to predict
the effectiveness of TAC in recipients after pediatric LT and help
clinicians to choose CsA for an alternative quickly. Methods: Patients
who received pediatric LT from 2006 to 2019 at RenJi Hospital, Shanghai
Jiaotong University School of Medicine were included in this study.
Retrospective data, including demographics, comorbidities, pre-operative
lab values, outcome based on post-transplantation events were collected.
A nomogram estimating the risk of poor curative effects of those
recipients who receive an IS protocol based on TAC was constructed using
multivariate logist regression analysis. Results: A total of 2032
recipients were included in this study. Seven parameters (recipient CYP
type, cholangitis before LT, GRWR, spleen long diameter, serum albumin,
graft volume reduction, donor CYP type) were used to construct the
nomogram. The nomogram showed good discriminative performance with the
area under receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) of
74.5%, and good calibration. Decision curve analysis demonstrated that
the model had a high clinical application potential. Conclusions: A
simple clinical model with well performance in predicting the risk of
poor curative effects of those recipients who receive an IS protocol
based on TAC was constructed. The nomogram can help clinicians quickly
choose CsA as an alternative if there are high risks.
Development Cycle Modeling: Transdisciplinary Implications
Authors: Denard Samuel
Published: July 2021

This paper argues that development (product, system, software, etc.) is an inherently transdisciplinary activity. Development is defined as the conversion of ideas into their manifestations. This conversion is often characterized by development phases, e.g., concept, requirements, design, implementation, and evaluation/testing (CRDIE). Iterative sequences of these phases form development cycles. Development cycles drive new product creation as well as product quality and cost and utility. Consequently, understanding development cycles is important. Models can provide insight; however, end-to-end quantitative development cycle models are, at best, rare. This paper outlines such a model, the Statistical Agent-based Model of Development and Evaluation (SAbMDE). For purposes of this paper, transdisciplinarity is defined as a developer’s holistic view of reality as filtered by that developer’s sensory input and perception of that reality. The model builds its mathematical and logical structures on a foundational concept that includes and describes this sensory and perceptual integration. Because the proposed model has this transdisciplinary characteristic, the model's use and results will have transdisciplinary implications. One implication: Ideas are discovered, not created. Another: A developer must first adjust their perception to see the development path that leads to a desired end product before they can traverse that path. A third: The ordering of information in a development space must be maintained.. This paper defines a minimal SAbMDE model that logically and mathematically reveals these and other SAbMDE transdisciplinarity implications.
Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENG): Factors affecting its efficiency and applications
Authors: Anand Deepak , Sambyal Singh , Vaid Rakesh
Published: July 2021

The demand for energy is increasing tremendously with modernization of the
technology and requires new sources of renewable energy. The triboelectric
nanogenerators (TENG) are capable of harvesting ambient energy and
converting it into electricity with the process of triboelectrification and
electrostatic-induction. TENG can convert mechanical energy available in the
form of vibrations, rotation, wind and human motions etc., into electrical
energy there by developing a great scope for scavenging large scale energy.
In this review paper, we have discussed various modes of operation of TENG
along with the various factors contributing towards its efficiency and
applications in wearable electronics.
Forced stack sleep transistor (FORTRAN): A new leakage current reduction approach in CMOS based circuit designing
Authors: Kassa Sankit , Misra Neeraj , Nagaria Rajendra
Published: July 2021

Reduction in leakage current has become a significant concern in
nanotechnology-based low-power, low-voltage, and high-performance VLSI
applications. This research article discusses a new low-power circuit design
the approach of FORTRAN (FORced stack sleep TRANsistor), which decreases the
leakage power efficiency in the CMOS-based circuit outline in VLSI domain.
FORTRAN approach reduces leakage current in both active as well as standby
modes of operation. Furthermore, it is not time intensive when the circuit
goes from active mode to standby mode and vice-versa. To validate the
proposed design approach, experiments are conducted in the Tanner EDA tool
of mentor graphics bundle on projected circuit designs for the full adder, a
chain of 4-inverters, and 4- bit multiplier designs utilizing 180nm, 130nm,
and 90nm TSMC technology node. The outcomes obtained show the result of a
95-98% vital reduction in leakage power as well as a 15-20% reduction in
dynamic power with a minor increase in delay. The result outcomes are
compared for accuracy with the notable design approaches that are accessible
for both active and standby modes of operation.
Effect of storage period on physical, chemical, microbial, and sensory qualities of instant masa flour produced from blends of rice and Bambara groundnut
Authors: Balogun Mutiat , Oyeyinka Samson , Kolawole Fausat , Dauda Adegbola , Abdulmalik Aisha
Published: July 2021

Masa is a traditionally fermented meal usually made from cereals. The aim of
this research was to produce an enriched meal from rice and Bambara
groundnut. The colour, functional properties and microbial quality of
composite blend of rice and Bambara groundnut flour, in the ratio of 100:0,
95:5, 90:10, 85:15, 80:20, were evaluated using standard methods. Sensory
properties of freshly made masa and masa prepared from stored flours were
also determined. The microbial load of the masa flour blend increased over
the storage period. Water absorption capacity, swelling capacity and bulk
densities increased, while the oil absorption capacity decreased with the
storage period. The objective colour result showed a decrease in the
lightness (L*) value. Sensory properties of masa were not substantially
altered with Bambara groundnut inclusion, but the ratings reduced with
storage. Instant masa may be prepared from flour stored for 4 weeks without
considerable changes in quality.
Nb2O5 nanoparticles obtained by microwave assisted combustion synthesis under different conditions
Authors: Luiz Thaís , Nakagomi Fabio , Renzetti Reny , Siqueira Guilherme
Published: July 2021

The microwave assisted combustion synthesis (MACS) as a new, quick and low
cost synthesis method was used for preparation of niobium pentoxide (Nb2O5)
powders. The present paper investigated the effect of reactant
concentrations (ammonium niobium oxalate, urea and ammonium nitrate) on the
characteristics of Nb2O5 nanoparticles. Three samples were synthesized with
stoichiometric ratio between the fuel and oxidant (C1), excess of oxidant
(C2) and excess of fuel (C3). In all samples, Nb2O5 crystalline
nanoparticles with irregular morphology were detected. The synthesis of
nanoparticles with smaller diameter in the C2 and C3 samples was confirmed
by greater values of band gap energy measured through UV-Visible diffuse
reflectance spectroscopy (indicating quantum confinement) and by the
Rietveld refinement of X-ray diffraction patterns. The results showed that
the amounts of oxidant and fuel can change synthesis temperature,
influencing the final characteristics of the particles, such as size and
existent phases. In these cases the excess of oxidant and fuel in the C2 and
C3 samples, respectively, decreases the average synthesis temperature and
decelerates the particle growth and the formation of the monoclinic phase.
Possibility of non-institutional political participation within the non-responsive system of Serbia: The impact of (dis)trust and internal political efficiency
Authors: Fiket Irena , Pudar-Drasko Gazela
Published: July 2021

Starting from the findings of previous studies, whose results speak of the
distrust of Serbian citizens in political institutions and political actors,
low turnout and general passivity and apathy of citizens, the authors deal
with the understanding of non-institutional political participation in
Serbia. The paper starts from the assumption that the stated indicators
pointing to the withdrawal of Serbian citizens from political life do not
necessarily represent part of the same phenomenon. Namely, the authors
believe that it is necessary to distinguish between the assumptions of
institutional and non-institutional civic participation. On the one hand,
the authors start from the thesis that high trust in institutions can
actually negatively affect the need of citizens to mobilize in order to
influence institutions. At the same time, citizens may be inclined to
participate in political life through non-institutional channels if they
posses a developed sense of internal political efficiency, which is not
necessary related to the responsiveness of the political system.
Assessment of irrigation water quality at the territory of Vojvodina Province (Serbia)
Authors: Milic Stanko , Banjac Dusana , Vasin Jovica , Ninkov Jordana , Pejic Borivoj , Bajic Ivana , Mijic Branka
Published: July 2021

Intensive crop cultivation systems require continuous monitoring of
irrigation water quality as well as the control of physical and chemical
soil properties. In view of the ongoing climate change and a dramatic
decrease in soil organic matter content, the use of low quality irrigation
water and its adverse effects on soil, cultivated plants and irrigation
equipment must not be overlooked. The aim of this paper was to evaluate
general quality of irrigation water from the different water intake sources
in the Vojvodina Province. The paper presents the results of irrigation
water quality, collected during 2018 and 2019. The research included 140
irrigation water samples obtained from three different intake structures
which collect water from wells, canals or reservoirs. Water quality was
assessed using the following parameters: pH value, electrical conductivity
(EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), ionic balance, sodium adsorption ratio
(SAR) and residual sodium carbonate (RSC) value. Water quality diagram given
by the US Salinity Laboratory (USSL) and FAO guidelines for interpretation
water quality for irrigation was used. Additionally, the Nejgebauer
classification for irrigation water, developed specifically for the area of
Vojvodina, was used as a third classification. Based on the results of
mineralization of the irrigation water, the following values of the observed
parameters were determined: average pH of the analyzed water samples were
7.89, ranged from 7.14 to 9.01, while electrical conductivity values ranged
from 0.10 to 3.50 dS/m, with an average of 0.85 dS/m. TDS analysis resulted
in a wide range of values, from 112 mg/l to 2,384 mg/l, with an average of
529,22 mg/l. SAR values varied between 0.04-16.52 with a satisfactory
average of 1.97. The USSL water classification produced similar results as
FAO classification and RSC index <0, indicating that 57% of investigating
samples are without concerns for irrigation use, whereas Nejgebauers
classification and RSC index 0-1.25 show that over 75% of analyzed samples
are suitable and safe for irrigation and soil properties. Since the quality
of irrigation water significantly affects plant productivity, as it
determines the chemical and physical properties of agricultural land,
monitoring of water quality for irrigation is of high importance.