bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MIXED METHODS APPRAISAL TOOL: STRENGTHENING THE METHODOLOGICAL RIGOR OF MIXED METHODS RESEARCH STUDIES IN NURSING
Authors: Oliveira João Lucas Campos de , Magalhães Ana Maria Müller de , Matsuda Laura Misue , Santos José Luís Guedes dos , Souto Rafaella Queiroga , Riboldi Caren de Oliveira , Ross Ratchneewan
Published: August 2021

ABSTRACT Objective: to describe the use of the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool to appraise and to strengthen the methodological rigor of mixed methods studies in nursing. Method: a theoretical essay was used to describe the application of Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool to support the development and assessment of mixed methods research in nursing. Four mixed methods articles in nursing were purposely chosen and evaluated based on the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool criteria. Results: Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool is a tool for evaluating primary mixed methods studies based on five evaluation criteria: 1) justification for adopting mixed methods methodology; 2) integration between the quantitative and qualitative components; 3) interpretation of integrated findings of quantitative and qualitative data; 4) presentation of divergences between quantitative and qualitative results; and 5) compliance with the methodological rigor of each individual approach in mixed methods research. Conclusion: Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool is an instrumental resource that can be used to appraise mixed methods research and strengthen the methodological rigor in planning and conducting future mixed studies in nursing research.
Trabalho, reformas ultraliberais, desigualdades e pandemia no Brasil: os sentidos da crise
Authors: Ghiraldelli Reginaldo
Published: August 2021

Resumo A crise capitalista intensificada com a emergência da pandemia de Covid-19 trouxe efeitos devastadores para a economia mundial e, no caso em análise, para o mercado de trabalho brasileiro, sobretudo com o aumento do desemprego e da informalidade. Este artigo, com base em pesquisa bibliográfica, documental e de dados secundários, apresenta um panorama recente do mercado de trabalho em um contexto ultraliberal de aprovação de reformas regressivas no âmbito da proteção social brasileira. Essas reformas contribuíram para a perda de direitos sociais, a fragilização das organizações sindicais, o aumento do desemprego e o aprofundamento das desigualdades sociais.
Resistência, sobrevivência e associativismo: reinventando a vida nos territórios de escravidão moderna (séculos XVIII-XX)
Authors: Barreto Maria Renilda , Silva Daniel B. Domingues da
Published: August 2021

Resumo: Este dossiê apresenta resultados inéditos de uma agenda de investigação que problematiza a dinâmica das relações sociais, no Brasil, discutindo como as populações escravizadas e libertas montaram estratégias de sobrevivência e de reinvenção em territórios demarcados pela escravidão moderna por meio do associativismo. Os artigos se espraiam entre os séculos XVIII e XX, abrangem diversas regiões brasileiras e ampliam as percepções de como negras e negros moldaram o país a partir de tensionamentos, conflitos e negociações alterando as configurações sociais, culturais, educacionais, científicas, dentre outros campos das relações humanas.
The pyrite heave problem: new insights from trace-element analysis
Authors: Ryskin M. , Maher M. L. J.
Published: August 2021

Over 12 000 houses built in Ireland between 2002 and 2008 are estimated to have sustained structural damage due to swelling initiated by pyrite in crushed rock aggregate beneath floor slabs. The Irish Standard I.S. 398-1 presented a categorization protocol for sub-floor fill material suspected of causing pyritic expansion. While at the extremes, the current risk characterisation protocol is definitive, there is a broad range of conditions where the findings are inconclusive, and the risk assessment requires expert interpretation. In this study, the possibility of using trace-element analysis to better quantify risk from reactive pyrite has been explored. The form and amount of pyrite in sedimentary rock are determined by the depositional environment, which also determined the concentration of trace elements such as molybdenum (Mo) and uranium (U). In this study, a range of high- and low-risk aggregates has been analysed. The results show very good correlation between the empirically derived risk for pyrite expansion categories and molybdenum and uranium enrichments and the ratio between these concentrations. The results to date are very promising and suggest that further research and testing of more samples will help to confirm the basis of the analysis and establish numerical risk thresholds.
Locating blockages in buried (telecoms) ducts: a new approach
Authors: Metje Nicole , Chapman David , Stringfellow Matt , Rebegea Simina , Tuckwell George , Guy Matt , Parkin Neil , Roberts Daniel , Leech Chris , Lord Andrew
Published: August 2021

Buried infrastructure forms the backbone for economic stability, growth, competitiveness and productivity in modern society and is a critical element of urban environments. The pressures on buried infrastructure will only increase as the population increases, which will drive demand and require changes. This means that the maintenance of existing buried infrastructure, as well as building new capacity, is vital to meet demands. Currently, there is a lack of available technology to locate and detect accurately the condition of relatively shallow (up to 1 m deep) plastic ducts, supply pipes and drainage systems. As Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) is being rolled out across the UK, not accurately knowing the condition of the ducts (blocked, filled, damaged) can significantly increase the installation cost. To understand the real-world implications of the condition of the buried infrastructure, a buried duct test facility incorporating a range of different damage types was created. Both ground-penetrating radar and novel in-duct acoustics were shown to have the potential to be combined to detect different defects from partial to full blockage and multiple blockages in buried ducts, thereby allowing much better planning when installing FTTP.
Impact of nano-titania and ultrasonic irradiation on the physical properties of polymer blend electrolytes
Authors: Krishnan Jayanthi Santhana , Balakrishnan Sundaresan
Published: August 2021

Nanocomposite polymer blend electrolytes (NCPBEs) consisting of poly(ethylene oxide) and poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) as polymers, lithium triflate (LiCF3SO3) as an electrolyte and nano-titania (TiO2) as a filler were prepared by both conventional stirring and ultrasonic irradiation methods. Complex formation and an increase in the amorphicity of the sample were confirmed through X-ray diffraction analysis. From alternating current impedance spectroscopy studies, it was observed that the ultrasonically irradiated NCPBEs exhibited maximum ionic conductivity compared with the NCPBEs prepared through conventional mechanical stirring. The Arrhenius behavior was observed from temperature-dependent ionic conductivity studies. Wagner’s polarization studies revealed that the charge transport in the prepared NCPBEs was predominantly due to ions. The dielectric behavior was analyzed by complex dielectric permittivity (ε*) and loss tangent studies. Notable morphological changes of the samples were observed from scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy studies. From thermogravimetry–differential thermal analysis, the sample with the maximum ionic conductivity was found to be thermally stable up to 300°C.
Predictors of Mobile Video Gaming on Musculoskeletal Pain among University Students in Selangor, Malaysia
Authors: Phuah Rong Yao Jireh , Sundar Viswanath , Ramalingam Vinodhkumar
Published: August 2021

INTRODUCTION: Mobile video gaming among university students has increased rapidly, more than before the COVID-19 pandemic. This is very concerning as this could spark various problems, such as musculoskeletal pain and gaming disorders. OBJECTIVES:  The present study is to identify the predictors of mobile video gaming on musculoskeletal pain among university students in Selangor, Malaysia. PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS: This study was conducted online using a self-reported online questionnaire via Google Form and sent to university students in Selangor, Malaysia. Participants' gaming addiction was measured using the Ten Item Internet Gaming Disorder Test (IGDT-10) questionnaire, and the prevalence of musculoskeletal pain was assessed by the Modified Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (MNMQ). The data was analyzed using SPSS version 25. A descriptive and binomial linear regression test was used to predict the variables. The statistical significance was set at p < 0.05, and odds ratios were calculated with confidence intervals of 95%. RESULTS: The prevalence of Internet Gaming Disorder among university students in Selangor, Malaysia is 1.8% (n=3). The neck region (74.2%) was the most commonly reported body region with musculoskeletal pain, followed by the shoulder region (60.7 %), lower back region (55.8 %), and upper back region (50.9 %). The body position was the only predictor of mobile video gaming with musculoskeletal pain (p = 0.002) in the lower back region. CONCLUSION: According to the findings of this study, the prevalence of Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) among university students was low and not addicted to gaming in the Covid-19 lockdown. We also found that participants who sat while playing mobile video games were more likely to develop low back pain. However, one of the limiting factors could be prolonged sitting in virtual classes during the lockdown, which causes low back pain.
Testing Russian Stock Market Efficiency Using Event Studies: Impact of Credit Ratings Changes
Authors: Avrutskaya Svetlana , Maricheva Elizaveta
Published: August 2021

Event study is a widespread technique for testing the semi-strong form of the market efficiency hypothesis. Among traditionally studied events, changes in corporate credit ratings by rating agencies have a special importance, since rating agencies use both publicly available and insider information. Studies of developed and emerging markets point to different reactions of stock prices to rating upgrades and downgrades and identify several factors affecting the scale of this effect, including the size and liquidity of the stock market, the level of regulation of the industry, the market capitalization of the company, the status of the rating agency, and others.

 

On the Russian market, the impact of credit rating upgrades and downgrades on stock prices has not been investigated so far. Ongoing studies of other events affecting stock prices show that the market’s reactions are pretty much in line with those of developed markets, despite its immaturity, limited transparency, high volatility, narrowness and low liquidity, as well as the small number of significant events.

 

In this article, we evaluate the level of efficiency of the Russian stock market and analyse the reaction of stock prices to changes in issuer credit ratings by international rating agencies using the traditional event study methodology in a narrow event window of 31 days over the period 2016–2020 on a sample of 49 public companies. We show that credit rating upgrades do not lead to statistically significant positive abnormal returns. Visual analysis demonstrates that rating downgrades result in substantial negative abnormal returns. This effect varies for financial and non-financial companies and companies with low and high capitalization yet differs from the effects observed for developed markets; nevertheless, these abnormal returns are not statistically significant. Still, there are grounds to conclude that the Russian stock market

is not efficient in the semi-strong form and is closer in its characteristics to emerging markets, which is important information for investors, as it permits them to develop profitable trading strategies.
Embedded Design and Implementation of Mobile Robot for Surveillance Applications
Authors: Al-Obaidi Abdulkareem Sh. Mahdi , Al-Qassar Arif , Nasser Ahmed R. , Alkhayyat Ahmed , Humaidi Amjad J. , Ibraheem Ibraheem K.
Published: August 2021

The surveillance and security of areas such as home, laboratory, office, factory, and airports, are important to prevent any threatening to human lives. Mobile robots are proven their effectiveness in a large number of applications, especially in hazardous areas where they can be remotely controlled by humans to accomplish certain tasks. This research paper presents a design and implementation of a mobile robot for surveillance and security applications. The main objective of the design is to lower the cost and the power consumption of the mobile robot which accomplish using low-cost open-source hardware such as Arduino and Raspberry Pi. The robot is connected wirelessly via a low-power ZigBee module to the control station to allow the operator for controlling the mobile robot motions and monitoring the physical events in the environment where the robot is used.  Sensors such as camera, temperature, and range are embedded in the robot to sense and monitor human motion, the room temperature, and the distance of the surrounding obstacles. The testing of the implemented mobile robot shows that it can run continuously for approximately 6.5 hours at a motor shaft speed 25 rpm of unlit the need to recharge the battery.
Microhabitats Utilization by Solitary Parasitoids and Predatory Insects as Indicators of Oil Palm Agroecosystem’s Capacity to Support Insect Species Diversity
Authors: A.K. Ahmad Bukhary , M.Y. Ruslan , H. Noor Hisham , M. Muzamil , A. Abu Hassan , A.B. Idris
Published: August 2021

Microhabitats capacity to support insect species diversity and persistence were evaluated implementing solitary parasitoids and predatory insects according to different phases of herbicide and chemical fertilizer applications. Two species of the genus Xanthopimpla (Ichneumonidae) and one species of the genus Pompilus (Pompilidae) showed relationships on vegetation-type microhabitats, notably natural weeds, leguminous cover crops, and the beneficial plant Turnera subulata, while two species of the genus Evania (Evaniidae) showed relationships with chipped oil palm trunks. One species from the genus Odontomachus (Formicidae) as an exclusive predatory ant was related to both chipped oil palm trunks and the beneficial plant T. subulata. Xanthopimpla parasitoids exhibited abundance fluctuations difference around natural weeds during herbicide application phases between three- and six-years old oil palm stands, with decreased and increased abundance patterns of the former and the latter, respectively. 18 years old oil palm stand showed increased abundance patterns only along with the different phases of chemical fertilizer applications. The importance of natural weeds diversity, restrictions of leguminous cover crops, frequency of herbicide applications, and the arrangements between beneficial plants and wood-based microhabitats that benefited insect parasitoids and predators were discussed.
Phenolic Content and Biological Activities of Ethanol Extracts from Medicinal Plants in East Kalimantan, Indonesia
Authors: Mariani Franxisca , Tammachote Rachaneekorn , Kusuma Irawan Wijaya , Chavasiri Warinthorn , Punnapayak Hunsa , Prasongsuk Sehanat
Published: August 2021

The Dayak tribe are the indigenous people of West Kutai, East Kalimantan, Indonesia, and they have experiences in using plants for traditional medicine and the commonly used plants include Baccaurea macrocarpa (Miq.) Müll.Arg., Entada phaseoloides (L.) Merr., Goniothalamus macrophyllus (Blume) Hook.f. & Thomson, Gynura crepidioides Benth., Helicia robusta (Roxb.) R. Br var. robusta, Litsea elliptica, Pogostemon cablin (Blanco) Benth, and Rhodomyrtus tomentosa (Aiton) Hassk. Therefore, the present study aimed to analyze these plant species for their phenolic content, and antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-tyrosinase, and anticancer activities. The total phenolic content and total antioxidant capacity were analyzed using Folin-Ciocalteu reagent and the phosphomolybdenum method, respectively. The antioxidant activities were evaluated by DPPH and ABTS assays. The antibacterial activity was determined by agar well diffusion and microdilution methods against six bacterial strains. The anticancer activity of the plant extracts was assayed against MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cells. Based on the ethanol extraction, the highest yield was obtained from L. elliptica (10.42%), while H. robusta extract contained the highest phenolic content, antioxidant capacity, and antioxidant activities. All the extracts exhibited antibacterial activities against all the tested strains of bacteria, with the highest activity found in R. tomentosa extract, which also showed the highest activity against the cancer cells. The ethanol extract from E. phaseoloides exhibited tyrosinase inhibition activity (IC50 = 543.83 ± 51.06 µg/mL). The results herein suggested that the ethanol extracts from some medicinal plants from East Kalimantan have potential as antioxidant, antibacterial, anticancer, and anti-tyrosinase agents.
Viability of Lactobacillus plantarum TISTR 2083 in Protectant during Low-Temperature Drying and Storage
Authors: Al Mamun Abdullah , Masniyom Payap , Maneesri Jaruwan
Published: August 2021

Low-temperature drying was applied as simple and low cost drying technique for the production of dried Lactobacillus plantarum TISTR 2083, which was isolated from traditional starter of Ka-nom Tuay-fu. To improve the survival of L. plantarum TISTR 2083 during drying and storage, five different protectants and two carrier materials were investigated. These include sucrose, trehalose, maltodextrin, skim milk, and L-glutamate sodium salt (L-GSS) as protectant and rice starch and rice flour as carrier material. Whereas, skim milk as protectant with rice starch resulted in higher viable cell (8.71 log CFU/g) after drying by hot air oven at 40 °C. Different concentration 5, 10, and 15% (w/v) skim milk also investigated to check the effect of skim milk concentration on cell viability. L. plantarum TISTR 2083 starter powder was in different storage conditions to check the storage stability. After 90 days of storage, starter powder stored at 4 °C with silica gel and without silica gel had more than 80% survival rate, while there was no viable cell that stored in room temperature with silica gel. The result showed the production and storage conditions of high viability L. plantarum TISTR 2083, which can be used as starter culture for further fermented product development and as probiotic.
Production of Omega-3 Fatty Acids by Enzymatic Hydrolysis from Lemuru Fish By-Products
Authors: Kosasih Wawan , R. Tina Rosmalina , Risdian Chandra , Saepudin Endang , Sri Priatni Sri Priatni
Published: August 2021

Production of omega-3 fatty acids from lemuru fish by-products was studied by enzymatic hydrolysis using a lipase enzyme in one liter of the batch reactor. The hydrolysis temperature of fish oil was set at 45 to 55 ℃ for 0 to 24 h, whereas agitation from 50 to 150 rpm. RSM-Box Bhenken was used to study the effect of these parameters on omega-3 (EPA, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and α-linolenic acid (ALA)) content. The % free fatty acid (FFA), acid index, peroxide index, iodine index, and saponification index of lemuru fish oil was 0.925, 2.52, 42.5, 97.28, and 160.11%, respectively. GC-MS analysis results showed that unsaturated fatty acids content (62.34%), which are consisted of omega-3 (EPA, DHA, and ALA), omega-6 and omega-9, was much higher than saturated acids (12.97%). The experiment data showed that the highest EPA (1.221%) and DHA (0.312%) content were reached at 50 ℃ and 24 h with 150 rpm of agitation. However, through the RSM-Box Bhenken analysis and 3D surface plot, it was suggested that the optimum condition was obtained at 45 ℃ and 24 h with 150 rpm of agitation with the content of EPA, DHA, and ALA were 1.709, 0.49, and 1.237%, respectively.
Vancomycin Loaded Alginate/Cockle Shell Powder Nanobiocomposite Bone Scaffold for Antibacterial and Drug Release Evaluation
Authors: Yuan Su Wen , Santhanam Jacinta , Ng Shiow Fern , Bharatham B. Hemabarathy
Published: August 2021

Bacterial infection and biofilm formation is a major concern in orthopaedic implants and bone reconstructive surgery complications that may be addressed with localized drug delivery system. The potential use of a fabricated nanobiocomposite bone scaffold using alginate and nano cockle shell powder for drug release and antibacterial properties was investigated. Vancomycin loaded bone scaffolds were fabricated with 3 and 5 wt% vancomycin, respectively, while a non-drug loaded scaffold was used as controls. The mineralization of the scaffolds using simulated body fluid (SBF) as well as biofilm formation were evaluated using microscopic observations. Drug release study and antimicrobial activity of the eluent from each sampling period was tested for growth inhibition of Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis for a period of 21 days. Significant difference of cumulative amount of vancomycin eluted from scaffolds loaded with 5 wt% vancomycin compared to 3 wt% (p<0.05) were noted. Eluent from both groups showed inhibitory effect against bacterial strain tested for 21 days. The findings are further supported with histological observations of reduced biofilm formation by Staphylococcus epidermidis on surface of 5 wt% vancomycin loaded scaffolds compared to control scaffolds. Basic mineralization studies conducted showed no alteration in drug loaded scaffolds characteristics compared to control scaffolds. Findings from this study indicates antibacterial properties can be conferred to the fabricated bone scaffold with successful incorporation of vancomycin with potentials to be used for local drug delivery application.
Comparing the Effects of Alpha-Tocopherol and Tocotrienol Isomers on Osteoblasts hFOB 1.19 Cultured on Bovine Bone Scaffold
Authors: Mohd Fozi Nur Farhana , Jam Jolly James , Chua Kien Hui , Alias Ekram , Chin Kok Yong , Soelaiman Ima Nirwana
Published: August 2021

Tocotrienol mixtures have been shown to exert anabolic actions on the skeletal system in animal studies, but it is unclear which tocotrienol isomer shows the most prominent effects. This study aims to investigate the most active tocotrienol isomers using hFOB 1.19 human osteoblasts cultured on a bovine bone scaffold. The bovine trabecular bone was sectioned, demineralised and freeze-dried to form the scaffold. hFOB 1.19 osteoblasts were cultured on the bone scaffolds in humidified condition at 37 °C and 5% carbon dioxide with vitamin E isomers (alpha-, beta-, gamma-, delta-tocotrienol and alpha-tocopherol). The cell differentiation capacity of tocotrienol isomers was investigated through morphological observation, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and osteocalcin expression. Changes in the bone scaffolds were determined using histomorphometry methods. Osteoblast culture treated with gamma- and delta-tocotrienols showed a significant increase in ALP activity and osteocalcin expression. Bone structural histomorphometry analysis showed that bone scaffolds treated with gamma- and delta-tocotrienol showed significant increases in bone volume and trabecular thickness. In conclusion, gamma- and delta-tocotrienol show the most prominent bone anabolic effects by increasing osteoblast differentiation and enhancing bone microstructure.
Physicochemical Properties of MoVTeNb Mixed Oxide Catalysts Synthesized using Different Vanadium Sources
Authors: Mohd Sidek Haslinda , Ramli Irmawati , Zainuddin Norhazlin , Ahangar Hossein Abbastabar , Taufiq-Yap Yun Hin
Published: August 2021

The use of different vanadium sources in the synthesis of multi-metal MoVTeNb oxide catalysts has been investigated for their effect on the physicochemical properties of catalysts. Metal oxides were synthesized by slurry method assisted with a microwave irradiation. Vanadium pentoxide (V2O5), vanadyl sulphate (VOSO4) and ammonium metavanadate (NH4VO3) were used as the vanadium sources, respectively. X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern showed the existence of orthorhombic (M1) phases in all catalysts. The catalyst prepared using V2O5 produced the highest formation of the phase. This was further supported by Inductive Couple Plasma-Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-AES), which showed that the V2O5 catalyst has the highest V: Mo ratio, mainly responsible for the high catalytic activity. Temperature Programmed Reduction in Hydrogen (H2-TPR) showed better reducibility for the catalyst when compared to the others. Temperature Programmed Reaction (TPRn) confirmed that the oxidants active for propane conversion into acrylic acid were originated from the lattice of the catalyst.
Retracted
Authors: Retracted
Published: August 2021

Retracted
Multiple precursors to the Landers earthquake
Authors: Shifflett Howard , Witbaard Robert
Published: August 2021

We present evidence for several temporally related premonitory movements preceding the Landers earthquake of 28 June 1992. Premonitory movements were measured at alignment arrays spanning the northeast, Painted Canyon, and San Andreas faults in Mecca Hills, California. A transitory fault normal extension of 30 ± 3 mm to eight targets was measured twice, on 8 and 9 March 1992 and 7 and 8 June 1992, across the northeast and Painted Canyon faults at the Hidden Spring Wash site (HSWS). Four kilometers northwest of the HSWS simultaneous fault normal extensions of 24, 21, and 6 ± 6 mm were measured across a previously locked 12-km segment of the San Andreas fault on 6 June 1992, 22 days prior to the Landers earthquake. A linear regression fit of horizontal displacement at HSWS showed a distinct increase in horizontal angles for those targets spanning active faults on the same dates as the fault normal extension. For the first time, other than a few small events on the North Shore creepmeter, dextral slip was measured on a nontranspressive, parallel slip segment of the San Andreas. On 6 June 1992, we measured offsets of 14, 8, and 3 arc sec ±3 sec at the Indian Stone Ring site (ISRS) on the San Andreas fault, which translates into movement of 20, 18, and 9 mm. Triggered slip was not observed on the main trace of the San Andreas fault after the Joshua Tree earthquake, but 17 mm of dextral slip, possibly coseismic with the Landers earthquake, was measured along cracks on 5 July 1992. This amount of slip supports the magnitude of premonitory movement. Taken together, substantial simultaneous fault normal extension and lateral slip at three alignment arrays across three faults followed by a large triggered slip event provide strong evidence for the occurrence of precursors to the Landers earthquake.
Monitoring nuclear test sites with GERESS
Authors: Jost M. L. , Schweitzer J. , Harjes H.-P.
Published: August 2021

Since the installation of the 25-element GERman Experimental Seismic System (GERESS) array in southeastern Germany in 1990, 36 presumed nuclear tests were recorded by this system: 16 from Nevada, 12 from the Tuamotu Archipelago, 7 from Lop Nor, and 1 from Novaya Zemlya. Also, a chemical calibration experiment at Nevada Test Site (NPE) was observed at the array in 1993. In addition, two presumed nuclear events from Nevada, four from the Tuamotu Archipelago, and six from eastern Kazakhstan were recorded on temporary stations close to the GERESS array during the site survey (1988 to 1989). These latter 12 events were carefully included in this study to broaden the data set. This has been done since the number of underground nuclear tests observable at the GERESS site is not expected to increase significantly in the future because most nuclear powers have adhered to a moratorium on nuclear testing. In addition, we also do not expect that peaceful nuclear explosions (PNE) will be detonated in the future due to reasons of environmental hazard. Concentrating on Nevada Test Site and the Tuamotu Archipelago, a cross-correlation method and a cluster analysis indicate subgroups of the data. These empirical methods clearly discriminate presumed nuclear tests on the islands of Mururoa and Fangataufa. In addition, detection thresholds at GERESS were estimated based on bodywave magnitudes published by ISC: mb = 4.3 for the Nevada Test Site, mb = 3.9 for the Tuamotu Archipelago, mb = 4.6 for Lop Nor, mb = 4.3 for Novaya Zemlya, and mb = 4.4 for eastern Kazakhstan. Clearly, these path-specific detection thresholds deviate substantially from those derived from global amplitude-distance relations (i.e., Gutenberg-Richter). This indicates that a network of seismic stations used for global monitoring purposes may need careful calibration.
Instrument responses of digital seismographs at Borovoye, Kazakhstan, by inversion of transient calibration pulses
Authors: Kim Won-Young , Ekström Göran
Published: August 2021

A method is developed to determine the response of digital seismographs from transient calibration pulses. Based on linear system theory, the digital seismograph is represented by a set of first- and higher-order linear filters characterized by their cutoff frequencies and damping coefficients. The transient calibration pulse is parameterized by a set of instrument constants, and the problem is linearized for small perturbations of the constants with respect to their nominal values. The observed calibration pulse shape is matched in the time domain using an iterative linearized inverse technique. The method is used to derive complete instrument responses for digital seismographs operating at the Borovoye Observatory (BRVK) in Kazakhstan, for which previously only the amplitude responses have been determined. To test this method, we apply it to calibration pulses from a modern digital seismograph system at Kislovodsk (KIV) in northern Caucasus, Russia, and obtain good agreement between known and derived instrument constants. The results of the calibration pulse shape inversion for these seismographs indicate that the method is efficient and that the results are reliable even when microseismic noise is present in the recorded transient calibration pulse. The derived parameters make possible improved quantitative waveform analysis of digital seismograms recorded at BRVK.
Continuous monitoring of seismic energy release associated with the 1994 Northridge earthquake and the 1992 Landers earthquake
Authors: Kedar Sharon , Kanamori Hiroo
Published: August 2021

We have developed a method to detect long-period precursors for large earthquakes observed in southern California, if they occur. The method allows us to continuously monitor seismic energy radiation over a wide frequency band to investigate slow deformation in the crust (e.g., slow earthquakes), especially before large earthquakes. We used the long-period records (1 sample/sec) from TERRAscope, a broadband seismic network in southern California. The method consists of dividing the record into a series of overlapping 30-min-long windows, computing the spectra over a frequency band of 0.00055 to 0.1 Hz, and plotting them in the form of a time-frequency diagram called spectrogram. This procedure is repeated daily over a day-long record. We have analyzed the 17 January 1994 Northridge earthquake (Mw = 6.7), and the 28 June 1992 Landers earthquake (Mw = 7.3). No slow precursor with spectral amplitude measured over a duration of 30 min larger than that of a magnitude 3.7 was detected prior to either event. In other words, there was no precursor whose moment was larger than ∼0.003% of the mainshock.
A seismic source summary for Soviet peaceful nuclear explosions
Authors: Sultanov D. D. , Murphy J. R. , Rubinstein Kh. D.
Published: August 2021

A summary of information is presented for 122 Soviet peaceful nuclear explosions (PNE) detonated during the 1965 to 1988 time period. The data presented include detonation times, locations, explosion yields, and depths of burial, as well as summary information regarding the explosion configurations and source emplacement media. This summary is intended to provide a concise reference for use in research studies of the seismic data recorded from this unique set of explosion sources.
Teleseismic slowness-azimuth station corrections for the International Monitoring System Seismic Network
Authors: Bondár István , North Robert G. , Beall Gregory
Published: August 2021

The prototype International Data Center (PIDC) in Arlington, Virginia, has been developing and testing software and procedures for use in the verification of the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty. After three years of operation with a global network of array and three-component stations, it has been possible to characterize various systematic biases of those stations that are designated in the Treaty as part of the International Monitoring System (IMS). These biases include deviations of azimuth and slowness measurements from predicted values, caused largely by lateral heterogeneity. For events recorded by few stations, azimuth and slowness are used in addition to arrival-time data for location by the PIDC. Corrections to teleseismic azimuth and slowness observations have been empirically determined for most IMS stations providing data to the PIDC. Application of these corrections is shown to improve signal association and event location. At some stations an overall systematic bias can be ascribed to local crustal structure or to unreported instrumental problems. The corrections have been applied in routine operation of the PIDC since February 1998.
Vibroseis recording techniques and data reduction from the Jemez Tomography Experiment
Authors: Davidson Mark E. , Braile Lawrence W.
Published: August 2021

The Jemez Tomography Experiment (JTEX) is a multidisciplinary study focused on the Valles Caldera and the Jemez Mountains, New Mexico. The objectives of the project are to create a high resolution crustal model of the subsurface structure of this silicic volcanic system and to develop an interpretation of its volcanic evolution. Use of Vibroseis sources in the acquisition of refraction/wide-angle reflection seismic data provided challenges beyond conventional explosive-source data. Processing of the JTEX Vibroseis data is an involved procedure consisting of sorting, cross-correlating, filtering, and stacking numerous individual seismograms in the production of final record sections. However, excellent results (high signal-to-noise seismograms at relatively small spacings) are obtainable with coherent arrivals at source-receiver distances of more than 60 km. The primary drawback in this approach lies in the massive volume of data that is necessary to produce record sections.

One benefit of the Vibroseis source used during JTEX was a method to decrease effective seismogram spacing. This technique, dubbed a “source-offset” technique, provides smaller overall seismograph station spacing by moving the Vibroseis sources during acquisition and leaving deployed seismographs stationary. After station corrections, this method effectively decreases station spacings and increases detail in resulting record sections. Various shallow crustal heterogeneities create travel-time advances and delays that affect the source-offset data differently than single-source data. Synthetic modeling demonstrates small travel-time discrepancies associated with the source-offset technique. However, the addition of traces with smaller station intervals clarifies secondary arrivals within record sections and aids in interpretation of these arrivals with a minimum amount of field effort required.
Iterative deconvolution and receiver-function estimation
Authors: Ligorría Juan Pablo , Ammon Charles J.
Published: August 2021

We describe and apply an iterative, time-domain deconvolution approach to receiver-function estimation and illustrate the reliability and advantages of the technique using synthetic- and observation-based examples. The iterative technique is commonly used in earthquake time-function studies and offers several advantages in receiver-function analysis such as intuitively stripping the largest receiver-function arrivals from the observed seismograms first and then the details; long-period stability by a priori constructing the deconvolution as a sum of Gaussian pulses; and easy generalization to allow multiwaveform deconvolution for a single receiver-function estimate.
A study of pulsatile flows with non-Newtonian viscosity of blood in large arteries
Authors:   , Banerjee Rupak Kumar , Cho Young I.
Published: August 2021

The current study offers a fundamental investigation of the effect of hemodynamics on lesion formation in specific arterial configurations in both man and animals. The objective of this investigation is to determine the changes in the flow parameters that occur in the curved, stenosed, mildly tapered, and branched femoral arterial geometries, in order to understand the generation and progression of site-specific atherosclerosis from a hydrodynamic point of view. For diseased vessels with various degrees of atherosclerosis, and for arteries with complex geometries, the effect of the non-Newtonian viscosity of blood on hemodynamics can be much more complicated than in a vessel without disease. Furthermore, the complexity of the flow increases as the flow itself becomes pulsatile in nature. Depending on the location and the nature of pulsatility, the instantaneous shear rate over a cardiac cycle oscillates from negative values to positive values at a magnitude of approximately several hundreds of reciprocal seconds. Thus, in comparison to a straight and smooth vessel, an arterial vessel of complex geometry experiences a vastly different viscosity and shear rate, leading to a shift and increase in the magnitude of oscillating shear stress along the arterial wall. Because specific sites have been identified as prone to blockage and thus to the development of stenosis, it has become important to know the behavior of fluid flow through these sites. This study also aims to determine what happens to blood flow once a blockage develops. The ultimate objective of the present study is to discover whether or not an alteration in flow conditions, i.e., pulsatility or fluid parameters, which may be achieved by pharmaceutical, chemical, or mechanical means, can help to reduce the risk of arterial disease, e.g., heart attack and strokes. Furthermore, numerically-obtained flow results may be compared and used to improve magnetic resonance image (MRI) signals, which are often exaggerated due to signal loss near the stenosed region or arterial sites that have complex geometries, i.e., bends, bifurcations, and branches. Thus, this research also has a potential application from the medical diagnostic point of view.
Neurosciences and Neuro post-COVID-19
Authors: Allegri Ricardo F. , Roman Fabian , Barceló Ernesto
Published: August 2021

Editorial
Does caffeine matter for arousal? Affective and autonomic responses induced by caffeine in coffee intake: evidence from a double-blind tasting task
Authors: Rodrigues Fernando , Diogo Julien , Rodrigues Carla , Figueira Cláudia , Rosa Pedro J.
Published: August 2021

Coffee is consumed worldwide, but there are different types of espresso blends, each with its unique concentration of caffeine, which can have different effects on the human being. The aim of this study was to understand the effect of the impact of caffeine on the autonomic nervous system, evaluating the physiological changes and subjective responses due to different levels of caffeine intake. A double-blind tasting task consisting of one within-subject factor design (caffeine level: high / double caffeine mixture (blend A) vs single-charge caffeine mixture (blend B) vs low-caffeine mixture (blend c) allowed us to assess participants’ autonomic responses using Heart Rate Variability (HRV) and Pupillary Reactivity (PR). Arousal was also assessed through the Self-Assessment Manikin (SAM). Results revealed statistically significant differences in HRV and PR between coffee blends, showing the blend A,a more pronounced autonomic response that blend C. However, no significant differences were found in arousal level among coffee blends. These results are similar to previous research that pointed out to a discordance between subjective and objective measures when caffeine is consumed.
Creative minds and neurosciences…
Authors: Allegri Ricardo F.
Published: August 2021

Creativity is the ability to generate original ideas in the arts or sciences, leaving traditional stereotypes behind, ultimately introducing innovation to the social context in which they arise. It has been associated with "divergent thinking" which prioritizes the generation of multiple solutions, different from traditional ones. Some authors have observed creative individuals present higher incidence of affective disorders, possibly related to hypomania or disinhibition. Similarly, “creativity” has been described in patients with frontotemporal dementia, a brain region linked with creativity on fMRI. Creativity is one of the most salient characteristics that human beings possess.
The Infodemic of COVID-19
Authors: Lam Megan
Published: August 2021

While the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic remains centered around the great strides made in fields of biotechnology and epidemiology, an epidemic of misinformation and growing skepticism of the scientific community rages beneath the surface. Almost understandably so, in an unprecedented time of change riddled with fear and a sense of loss, people turn to thoughts, emotions, and behaviours that sometimes do more to impede the return to normalcy that we all crave. Reports that were particularly prevalent during the early pandemic response, including those of individuals refusing to wear masks in public spaces or anti-lockdown rallies throughout North America, only spurred further confusion and divisive sentiments on both sides [1]. While these events may point towards a lack of clear communication and mixed messaging from authority figures in the early response, a culture of inherent skepticism, particularly on social media, continues to be pervasive. With hopes of a global re-opening riding on the current vaccine rollout, widespread acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccines remains essential to achieving herd immunity and ultimately curbing the spread of the virus. However, marginalized and underrepresented groups in North America that have been most heavily affected by the pandemic are also often those who are most distrustful of the medical system [2,3].
Revising the model for vaccine development: a step towards tuberculosis immunity
Authors: Dagenais Amy
Published: August 2021

Thanks to accelerated vaccine development, the first COVID-19 vaccine was approved for use by Health Canada only nine months after the disease was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization [1]. This unprecedented feat was made possible by three critical factors: a stressed sense of urgency, substantial funding, and parallel pre-clinical and clinical trials. Such a concerted effort not only led to the development of multiple effective vaccines, but also bred innovation as mRNA technology bloomed despite its limited use in the past. This success story paves the way for the accelerated development of vaccines for other diseases, such as tuberculosis—the deadliest infectious disease of modern times before COVID-19 emerged.
The Hidden Costs of COVID-19 and School Closure on Children
Authors: Rosenfeld Aaron
Published: August 2021

An initial public health measure enacted in response to the COVID-19 pandemic was the closure of schools.[1] This action was motivated by previous observations regarding school closure and prevention of pandemic flu transmission.[2,3] In response to periodic school closure, many schools in Ontario have adopted a hybrid model of schooling with both in-person and remote learning. However, due to the emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants, considerable concern has been raised regarding in-person learning.[4,5] This is an important discussion to have as additional variants and waves are likely to arise, and school closure poses a substantial burden to the well-being of children —especially those from marginalized populations.
Admission cardiotocography versus Doppler auscultation of fetal heart in high risk pregnancies in a tertiary health facility in Nigeria
Authors: Abbey Mkpe , Green Kinikanwo I.
Published: August 2021

Background: Admission cardiotocography (CTG) and intermittent auscultation (IA) of the fetal heart  might help to identify those foetuses that could not withstand the stress of labour and also predict neonatal outcome. The aim was to compare the associations of admission CTG findings and those of IA of the fetal heart with labour and neonatal outcome.Methods: It was a prospective COHORT study. 30 minutes admission CTG for each of the 387 participants was interpreted, using the FIGO 2015 guideline and physiological interpretation. Admission IA was also performed on the same patients. Women whose CTG showed chronic hypoxia had caesarean section while those with either suspicious or pathological CTG, had intrapartum fetal resuscitation. Those that responded proceeded to labour during which fetal condition was monitored with IA. Data was analysed using a statistical package for social science (SPSS) software, version 19.Results: 108 (28.57%) and 57 (15.08%) of the 378 participants had abnormal admission CTG and admission IA findings respectively. The sensitivity of abnormal admission CTG and IA to predict abnormal IA findings in labour were 70.59% and 41.18% respectively. Compared with admission IA, admission CTG was more likely to predict the following labour and neonatal outcomes: caesarean section rates 72 (70.59%) and 42 (41.18%) for admission CTG versus IA groups respectively; relative risk RR=1.714; 95% CI 1.317-2.231, 1 min Apgar score less than 7, 78 (89.66%) and 36 (41.38%); RR=2.167; 95% CI 1.670-2.810, 5 min Apgar score less than 7, 57 (90.48%) and 33 (52.38%); RR=1.727; 95% CI 1.347-2.215, admission to SCBU 51 (68%) and 30 (40%); RR=1.700; 95% CI 1.237-2.336, intrauterine fetal deaths and early neonatal death.Conclusions: Admission CTG was a better predictor of labour and neonatal outcome than admission IA. CTG was therefore highly recommended as an integral tool in the management of labour.
Clinical significance of ultrasonic placental grading during third trimester in hypertensive disorders in pregnancy and its correlation with fetal outcome in tertiary care centre
Authors: Naik Aruna , Khoiwal Susheela , Sharma Nisha , Aarthy Priya
Published: August 2021

Background: Hypertension is one of the common complications in pregnancy and contributes significantly to maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. The aim of the present study was to study placental grading by grading by ultrasonography in pregnancy complicated with hypertension and normotensive gravidas. To compare the foetal outcome regarding placental grading and its correlation pattern of placental grade distribution, type of delivery, foetal distress, birth asphyxia, foetal maturity, perinatal morbidity and mortality.Methods: The present study was conducted for a period of 12 months, which included 200 patients who attended OPD at PDRMC, Udaipur. Inclusion criteria was hypertensive pregnant women with BP >140/90 mmHg. Exclusion criteria was Pregnancy associated with other medical disorders, twin gestation, renal and cardiovascular disease and diabetes mellitus.Results: 100 pregnant women with preeclampsia as study group. The most common age group in study group is 22-23 Years. The grade III placenta was found early third trimester in study group. Caesarean delivery was more common mode of delivery in grade III placenta. In foetal outcome small for gestational age was more among the grade III placenta. Foetal distress, birth asphyxia, perinatal mortality, morbidity more among the grade III placenta among the study group.Conclusions: Foetal complications were significantly more in study group compared to control group. Ultrasound placental grade III was statistically significant in correlating with foetal complications like foetal distress, birth asphyxia, perinatal morbidity and mortality.