bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Automated time–height-resolved air mass source attribution for profiling remote sensing applications
Authors: Radenz Martin , Seifert Patric , Baars Holger , Floutsi Athena Augusta , Yin Zhenping , Bühl Johannes
Published: March 2021

Abstract. Height-resolved air mass source attribution is crucial for the evaluation of profiling ground-based remote sensing observations, especially when using lidar (light detection and ranging) to investigate different aerosol types throughout the atmosphere. Lidar networks, such as EARLINET (European Aerosol Research Lidar Network) in the frame of ACTRIS (Aerosol, Clouds and Trace Gases), observe profiles of optical aerosol properties almost continuously, but usually, additional information is needed to support the characterization of the observed particles. This work presents an approach explaining how backward trajectories or particle positions from a dispersion model can be combined with geographical information (a land cover classification and manually defined areas) to obtain a continuous and vertically resolved estimate of an air mass source above a certain location. Ideally, such an estimate depends on as few as possible a priori information and auxiliary data.
An automated framework for the computation of such an air mass source is presented, and two applications are described. First, the air mass source information is used for the interpretation of air mass sources for three case studies with lidar observations from Limassol (Cyprus), Punta Arenas (Chile) and ship-borne off Cabo Verde. Second, air mass source statistics are calculated for two multi-week campaigns to assess potential observation biases of lidar-based aerosol statistics. Such an automated approach is a valuable tool for the analysis of short-term campaigns but also for long-term data sets, for example, acquired by EARLINET.
Simulating the spatiotemporal variations in aboveground biomass in Inner Mongolian grasslands under environmental changes
Authors: Wang Guocheng , Luo Zhongkui , Huang Yao , Sun Wenjuan , Wei Yurong , Xiao Liujun , Deng Xi , Zhu Jinhuan , Li Tingting , Zhang Wen
Published: March 2021

Abstract. Grassland aboveground biomass (AGB) is a critical component of the
global carbon cycle and reflects ecosystem productivity. Although it is
widely acknowledged that dynamics of grassland biomass is significantly
regulated by climate change, in situ evidence at meaningfully large spatiotemporal
scales is limited. Here, we combine biomass measurements from six long-term
(> 30 years) experiments and data in existing literatures to
explore the spatiotemporal changes in AGB in Inner Mongolian temperate
grasslands. We show that, on average, annual AGB over the past 4 decades
is 2561, 1496 and 835 kg ha−1,
respectively, in meadow steppe, typical steppe and desert steppe in Inner
Mongolia. The spatiotemporal changes of AGB are regulated by interactions of
climatic attributes, edaphic properties, grassland type and livestock. Using
a machine-learning-based approach, we map annual AGB (from 1981 to 2100)
across the Inner Mongolian grasslands at the spatial resolution of 1 km. We
find that on the regional scale, meadow steppe has the highest annual AGB,
followed by typical and desert steppe. Future climate change
characterized mainly by warming could lead to a general decrease in
grassland AGB. Under climate change, on average, compared
with the historical AGB (i.e. average of 1981–2019), the AGB at the end of
this century (i.e. average of 2080–2100) would decrease by 14 % under
Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) 4.5 and 28 % under RCP8.5. If the carbon dioxide
(CO2) enrichment effect on AGB is considered, however, the estimated
decreases in future AGB can be reversed due to the growing atmospheric
CO2 concentrations under both RCP4.5 and RCP8.5. The projected changes
in AGB show large spatial and temporal disparities across different
grassland types and RCP scenarios. Our study demonstrates the accuracy of
predictions in AGB using a modelling approach driven by several readily
obtainable environmental variables and provides new data at a large scale and
fine resolution extrapolated from field measurements.
Lower-stratospheric aerosol measurements in eastward-shedding vortices over Japan from the Asian summer monsoon anticyclone during the summer of 2018
Authors: Fujiwara Masatomo , Sakai Tetsu , Nagai Tomohiro , Shiraishi Koichi , Inai Yoichi , Khaykin Sergey , Xi Haosen , Shibata Takashi , Shiotani Masato , Pan Laura L.
Published: March 2021

Abstract. Eastward air-mass transport from the Asian summer monsoon (ASM) anticyclone
in the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere (UTLS) often involves
eastward-shedding vortices, which can cover most of the Japanese
archipelago. We investigated the aerosol characteristics of these vortices
by analysing data from two lidar systems in Japan, at Tsukuba
(36.1∘ N, 140.1∘ E) and Fukuoka (33.55∘ N,
130.36∘ E), during the summer of 2018. We observed several events
with enhanced particle signals at Tsukuba at 15.5–18 km of altitude (at or
above the local tropopause) during August–September 2018, with a
backscattering ratio of ∼ 1.10 and particle depolarization of
∼ 5 % (i.e. not spherical, but more spherical than ice
crystals). These particle characteristics may be consistent with those of
solid aerosol particles, such as ammonium nitrate. Each event had a
timescale of a few days. During the same study period, we also observed
similar enhanced particle signals in the lower stratosphere at Fukuoka. The
upper troposphere is often covered by cirrus clouds at both lidar sites.
Backward trajectory calculations for these sites for days with enhanced
particle signals in the lower stratosphere and days without indicate that
the former air masses originated within the ASM anticyclone and the latter
more from edge regions. Reanalysis carbon monoxide and satellite
water vapour data indicate that eastward-shedding vortices were involved in
the observed aerosol enhancements. Satellite aerosol data confirm that the
period and latitudinal region were free from the direct influence of
documented volcanic eruptions and high-latitude forest fires. Our results
indicate that the Asian tropopause aerosol layer (ATAL) over the ASM region
extends east towards Japan in association with the eastward-shedding
vortices and that lidar systems in Japan can detect at least the lower-stratospheric portion of the ATAL during periods when the lower stratosphere
is undisturbed by volcanic eruptions and forest fires. The upper-tropospheric portion of the ATAL is either depleted by tropospheric
processes (convection and wet scavenging) during eastward transport or is
obscured by much stronger cirrus cloud signals.
The EUREC4A turbulence dataset derived from the SAFIRE ATR 42 aircraft
Authors: Brilouet Pierre-Etienne , Lothon Marie , Etienne Jean-Claude , Richard Pascal , Bony Sandrine , Lernoult Julien , Bellec Hubert , Vergez Gilles , Perrin Thierry , Delanoë Julien , Jiang Tetyana , Pouvesle Frédéric , Lainard Claude , Cluzeau Michel , Guiraud Laurent , Medina Patrice , Charoy Theotime
Published: March 2021

Abstract. During the EUREC4A field experiment that took place over the tropical Atlantic ocean, East of Barbados, the French ATR 42 environment research aircraft of SAFIRE aimed at characterizing the shallow cloud properties near cloud-base, and the turbulent structure of the subcloud-layer. For this purpose, the aircraft payload included radar and lidar remote sensing, microphysical probes, a laser spectrometer, and meteorological sensors. In particular, the aicraft was equipped with a 5-hole radome nose and several temperature and moisture sensors allowing for measurements of wind, temperature and humidity at a fast rate (25 Hz). This paper presents the high frequency measurements made with these sensors and their translation in terms of turbulent fluctuations, turbulent moments and characteristic length scales of the turbulence. A particular focus is put on the calibration and the quality control of the air moisture measurements, which remain a challenge at fine scales. Level-2 and Level-3 data are distributed as an ensemble of NetCDF files available to the public at AERIS (https://doi.org/10.25326/128; Brilouet et al. 2020).
A brief history of ball lightning observations by scientists and trained professionals
Authors: Keul Alexander G.
Published: March 2021

Abstract. With thousands of eyewitness reports, but few
instrumental records and no consensus about a theory, ball lightning remains
an unsolved problem in atmospheric physics. As chances to monitor this
transient phenomenon are low, it seems promising to evaluate observation
reports by scientists and trained professionals. The following work compiles
20 published case histories and adds 15 from the author's work and 6 from a
Russian database. Forty-one cases from eight countries, 1868–2020, are presented in
abstract form with a synthesis. The collection of cases does not claim to be
complete. Six influential or notable ball lightning cases are added. It is
concluded that well-documented cases from trained observers can promote
fieldwork and stimulate and evaluate ball lightning theories. Scientists who
have not reported their experience are invited to share it with the author.
Physics-based SNOWPACK model improves representation of near-surface Antarctic snow and firn density
Authors: Keenan Eric , Wever Nander , Dattler Marissa , Lenaerts Jan T. M. , Medley Brooke , Kuipers Munneke Peter , Reijmer Carleen
Published: March 2021

Abstract. Estimates of snow and firn density are required for satellite-altimetry-based
retrievals of ice sheet mass balance that rely on volume-to-mass
conversions. Therefore, biases and errors in presently used density models
confound assessments of ice sheet mass balance and by extension ice sheet
contribution to sea level rise. Despite this importance, most contemporary
firn densification models rely on simplified semi-empirical methods, which are
partially reflected by significant modeled density errors when compared to
observations. In this study, we present a new drifting-snow compaction scheme
that we have implemented into SNOWPACK, a physics-based land surface snow
model. We show that our new scheme improves existing versions of SNOWPACK
by increasing simulated near-surface (defined as the top 10 m) density
to be more in line with observations (near-surface bias reduction from −44.9
to −5.4 kg m−3). Furthermore, we demonstrate high-quality
simulation of near-surface Antarctic snow and firn density at 122 observed
density profiles across the Antarctic ice sheet, as indicated by reduced model
biases throughout most of the near-surface firn column when compared to two
semi-empirical firn densification models (SNOWPACK mean
bias=-9.7 kg m−3, IMAU-FDM mean bias=-32.5 kg m−3, GSFC-FDM mean bias=15.5 kg m−3). Notably, our analysis is restricted to the
near surface where firn density is most variable due to accumulation and
compaction variability driven by synoptic weather and seasonal climate
variability. Additionally, the GSFC-FDM exhibits lower mean density bias from
7–10 m (SNOWPACK bias=-22.5 kg m−3, GSFC-FDM
bias=10.6 kg m−3) and throughout the entire
near surface at high-accumulation sites (SNOWPACK bias=-31.4 kg m−3, GSFC-FDM bias=-4.7 kg m−3).
However, we found that the performance of SNOWPACK did not degrade when
applied to sites that were not included in the calibration of semi-empirical
models. This suggests that SNOWPACK may possibly better represent firn
properties in locations without extensive observations and under future
climate scenarios, when firn properties are expected to diverge from their
present state.
Resilience and Suicide Risk of Overseas Filipino Domestic Helpers
Authors: Nerosa Arabella Kay M.
Published: March 2021

Filipinos are naturally resilient. However, there are increasing cases of suicide among overseas workers. This study determined the level of resilience and suicide risk of overseas Filipino domestic helpers, with consideration to their demographic variables like age, civil status, educational attainment, religion, and work experience abroad. Using a descriptive-correlational design, it also assessed the relationship between resilience and suicide risk. Fifty-one overseas Filipino domestic helpers were obtained through snowball sampling. Data were gathered through Resilience Research Center-Adult Resilience Measure and Revised Suicide Behavior Questionnaire and were analyzed through mean, Fisher Exact, and Pearson r. Results revealed a high resilience level and low suicide risk. There were also no significant relationships between resilience, suicide risk, and demographic variables. Likewise, there is no significant relationship between resilience and suicide risk. Filipino domestic helpers demonstrated the capacity to overcome adversities. Findings may serve as a basis for a proposed pre-deployment enhancement training program for overseas Filipino domestic helpers.
Practices of Multiple Intelligences Instruction and Teaching Performance of Public Elementary School Teachers
Authors: Badajos Lennie M.
Published: March 2021

Research studies have explored the effects of multiple intelligences (MI) theory on the academic achievement of students. Teachers who based their instructional practices on MI theory have more authentic classrooms, and students are more genuinely engaged in class. This quantitative study determined the associations between demographic variables, the extent of multiple intelligences instructional practices, and the level of teaching performance of 178 public elementary school teachers. Using an adapted instrument, and rating form, the data were collected and were analyzed using mean, standard deviation, and Pearson r. The findings showed a significant correlation between educational attainment and years of service of teachers and eight types of multiple intelligences instructional practices.  Likewise, teaching performance was associated with variables such as age and years of service. On the other hand, mathematical and naturalistic multiple intelligences instructional practices were also related to teaching performance. Generally, results showed no correlation between multiple intelligences instructional practices and teaching performance of the teachers.
Effects of Chess Training on the Psychological Well-Being of Children in Conflict with the Law
Authors: Lastima Donalyn G. , Gayoles Lisa Anna M.
Published: March 2021

Children in conflict with the law (CICL) experience psychological distress during detention. Psychological well‐being is about CICL feeling better and functioning effectively. The ability to manage negative emotions that come with their failures and disappointments is essential for the long‐term well‐being of CICL, especially when negative emotions interfere with their daily functions. It is reasonable that CICL should participate in activities that will promote their well-being, such as chess. Chess is a non-threatening game that has a positive influence not only on auditory memory function, working memory, problem-solving, concentration, cognitive skills, academic skills, and scholastic achievement but also on socio-emotional enrichment of children and adolescents. The present study deals with positive psychology and recreational therapy, which is concerned with improving well-being and utilizing recreation and other activity-based interventions as a means of physical health, psychological, recovery, and well-being, respectively. This study aimed to determine the effect of chess training on the psychological well-being of CICL. It was hypothesized that chess training increases the levels of resiliency and flourishing of CICL.  The study also aimed to determine whether a significant relationship exists between resiliency and flourishing.
The Economic Implications of Compensation Package to a Business Process Outsourcing in Bacolod City
Authors: David Luneta Fe S. , Palic Anabelle S.
Published: March 2021

As one of the most comprehensive compensation tools for motivating employees, compensation package plans are forms of payment in an organization's compensation practices associated with performance. It is generally one of the organization’s highest costs. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 69.6% of a business' employee compensation expenses comprise the salaries and wages. While some costs are controllable, most employers must bear several salary-related costs beyond the base salary (Keegan, 2020). By far, there has never been any attempt to investigate the economic implications of the compensation package in terms of savings on expenditures. Hence, this study primarily intends to determine the economic implications of the compensation package to a business process outsourcing (BPO) in Bacolod City in terms of savings on expenditures. Likewise, it examines the strengths, weaknesses, threats, and opportunities of the company.
Knowledge in the Performance of Newborn Hearing Screening Test of Nurses in Private Hospitals
Authors: Olivo Liezel Lorraine B. , Malaga Xerxes G.
Published: March 2021

The newborn hearing screening test is implemented before hospital discharge to initiate early identification and treatment. With a large population, lack of education, fewer professionals, and limited access to facilities, the targeted hearing screening program is implemented only to high-risk infants. The success in mandating Republic Act No. 9709, also known as the Universal Newborn Hearing Screening and Intervention Act of 2009, was enacted for the prevention, early diagnosis, and intervention of hearing loss. Healthcare professionals do not feel adequately updated with newborn hearing screening and documenting screening results. Hence, this paper describes the level of knowledge of nurses in performing newborn hearing screening tests. Likewise, it determines the difference existing between nurses' demographics and their level of knowledge. Also, it identifies nurses' level of knowledge based on areas of procedures, standards, and protocols of newborn hearing screening tests and challenges and best practices encountered.
The Quality of Healthcare System of Level 1 Hospitals in Northern Negros Occidental
Authors: Geroso Mary Je P. , Caelian Merlita V.
Published: March 2021

Healthcare is a primary concern of everyone. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals recognize the importance of healthcare, ensuring healthy lives for all. Hence, healthcare organizations worldwide are interested in achieving better quality and performance. The Philippines supports this thrust towards achieving universal health coverage. The Philippine Health Agenda for 2016 to 2022 focus on recognizing the advancement and protection of public health.  It has to discourse not just the universal and equitable delivery of health care but also the economic, social, and environmental dimensions of health concerns. The enactment of the Local Government Code provided that local government units deliver public health services with the national government's technical assistance through the Department of Health (DOH). Thus, this study describes and compares the level of quality of hospital healthcare system of Level 1 Hospitals in Northern Negros Occidental in the areas of hospital management, patient care management, and service delivery as assessed by implementers and patients' folks when they are taken as a whole and when grouped according to their designation. Likewise, it identified the challenges encountered by implementers and recommendations of patients' folks to improve the healthcare system of hospitals.
Practices of Multiple Intelligence Instruction and Teaching Performance of Public Elementary School Teachers
Authors: Badajos Lennie M. , Diego Crispina V.
Published: March 2021

Managing students in the classrooms with multiple intelligences is one of the tough issues teachers encounter. The practice of multiple intelligences instruction depends mainly on the teacher's performance in teaching. That is to challenge the students by setting high standards for further achievement and evaluate students' progress. The theory of Multiple Intelligence (MI) resonates with many educators. It gives an idea to create a relatively even distribution of students of different abilities and diverse educational needs. It has been found out that teachers who based their instructional practices on MI theory have more authentic classrooms, and students are more genuinely engaged in class. Hence, the paper describes the extent of multiple intelligences instructional practices and the level of teaching performance of the public elementary school. Likewise, it sought to determine the significant relationship between multiple intelligences instructional practices, teaching performance, and demographic profile of teachers.
El derecho a no declarar de las víctimas de violencia de género a la luz de la doctrina reciente del Tribunal Supremo
Authors: Villamarín López María Luisa
Published: March 2021

La autora aborda en este artículo la doctrina que en los últimos años ha emanado del Tribunal Supremo en materia de dispensa para declarar de los testigos parientes (art. 416 LEC). En particular, se ocupa de analizar tres cuestiones especialmente relevantes: primera, la necesidad o no de informar sobre esta dispensa; segunda, si puede acogerse a ella quien formuló acusación, y, finalmente, el valor probatorio de las declaraciones sumariales prestadas por una víctima que luego decide no declarar en juicio oral.
Ipersensibilità ai FANS: intolleranza o allergia?
Authors: Levantino Laura , Corrado Cristiana , Badina Laura , Lega Sara , Barbi Egidio
Published: March 2021

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the main triggers of drug hypersensitivity reactions in children. According to the EAACI latest classification NSAIDs hypersensitivity reactions are differentiated into cross-reactive reactions, with non-immunological mechanisms (based on COX-1 inhibition), and selective reactions, with immunological mechanisms. Paediatric clinical manifestations of NSAID hypersensitivity are typically cutaneous, but sometimes, similarly to anaphylaxis, can involve other systems, especially the respiratory one. Differentiating between NSAID intolerance and NSAID allergy through drug provocation tests is crucial for the patient because the two clinical entities require different management.
Piomiosite del cingolo scapolare con focolai polmonari multipli e sepsi da MRSA
Authors: Troisi Angela , Mambelli Lorenzo , Graziani Giulia , Macaluso Alessandra , Minguzzi Maria Teresa , Marchetti Federico
Published: March 2021

The paper describes the case of a 14-year-old girl with intense right shoulder pain and severe signs of local and systemic inflammation. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a pyomyositis of right shoulder girdle muscles. Blood culture was found positive for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and the chest computed tomography scan revealed nodular infiltrates in both pulmonary fields resulting from septic embolism. A prolonged antibiotic therapy according to antibiogram allowed the complete recovery. Pyomyositis is a deep pyogenic infection of the skeletal muscle tissue and is most commonly caused by Staphylococcus aureus species. In the described case, repetitive trauma due to karate may have caused the initial muscle cell damage with subsequent haematoma, which subsequently becomes colonised by bacteria during a transient bacteraemia. There is an increasing prevalence of pyomyositis in temperate climates and in the last few years MRSA has emerged as a pathogen within the community (CA-MRSA) also in healthy people. An early diagnosis is important to avoid local and systemic complications.
Organizações de apoio no auxílio à governança em clusters competitivos
Authors: Pereira Cristina Espinheira Costa , Azevedo Ana Cláudia , Giglio Ernesto Michelangelo , Boaventura João Maurício Gama
Published: March 2021

Objective: To analyze how support organizations act on governance, specifically on competitive factors: cluster-oriented outcome strategies, and evolutionary character through the introduction of technologies.Methodology / Approach: A multiple case study was carried out in the Health Sciences clusters of Ribeirão Preto - Brazil, and the Oxfordshire Health Science Cluster - England.Originality / Relevance: This study sheds light on support organizations' potential to develop activities that reinforce clusters' governance, especially concerning strategic direction and support for innovation.Main Results: The results show and reinforce the importance of support organizations for governance and their positive influence on competitiveness. In practical terms, it highlights the importance that such organizations have for the development of strategies that favor the community and promote and disseminate technological development in the region.Theoretical/methodological contributions: The work contributes theoretically by supporting, with evidence, the importance of support organizations for the cluster's governance, advancing the understanding of relationship network theory when considering the weakest ties in the competitiveness of clusters. The methodological and managerial benefit consists of offering a matrix of six activities that can be investigated in future research and/or used by the clusters' managers, indicating that such actions can and should include the support organizations.
In Silico Molecular Docking Analysis of α-Pinene: An Antioxidant and Anticancer Drug Obtained from Myrtus communis
Authors: Fazeli-Nasab Bahman , Z. Sayyed Riyaz , Sobhanizadeh Ali
Published: March 2021

Background: Testis-specific protein on Y chromosome (TSPY) is the output of a tandem gene cluster. TSPY expression has been observed in gonadoblastoma and numerous distinct kinds of germ cell tumors, such as carcinoma in situ/intratubular germ cell neoplasia, seminoma, and extragonadal intracranial germ cell tumors (GCT). Myrtus communis extract rich in α-pinene showed high antioxidant and anticancer activity against a TSPY. Methods: The molecular weight and theoretical isoelectric of the TSPY proteins were calculated, using the ExPASSY ProtParam tools. Some software like mega 6, BioEdit, NEB cutter (New England Biolabs), and CAP3 were used to analyze clustering and find restriction enzymes on the TSPY sequence. To evaluate the nucleotide diversity of all sequences, the number of diverse situations and Tajima’s and Watterson’s estimators of theta were assessed. Nucleotide polymorphism can be measured by several parameters, such as haplotypes diversity, nucleotide diversity, theta using Dnasp software. To find interaction networks of protein-protein search tool for the retrieval of interacting genes/proteins (STRING) tools and to predict 3D structure, SWISS-MODEL was used; however, for docking protein-peptide based on interaction, Swiss Dock, Galaxy web, and CABS-dock software were employed. Results: We report a high (0.91) dN/dS index, positive Tajima's D, Fu, and Li’s tests, and a non-significant D test suggesting the occurrence of old modifications or a decrease of newborn mutations in the TSPY gene family. Interestingly, several hub proteins produced a strong chain or an operative module within their protein groups, such as nucleosome assembly protein (1NAP1L), RBMXL2, TBL1Y, and AMELY, which are all associated with the same cellular appliance elements and/or genetic uses. The docking of the TSPY target with α-pinene using docking revealed that the computationally-prognosticated lowest energy networks of TSPY are established by intermolecular hydrogen bonds and stacking interactions. Conclusions: The results of this study demonstrated that α-pinene interacts with the TSPY protein target and could be developed as a promising candidate for the new anticancer agent.
A Case Series of COVID-19 Respiratory Infection in Hospitalized Children: Clinical and Computed Tomography Challenges
Authors: Zamani Fatemeh , Ghamari Afshar , Darban Hosseini Amirkhiz Gisoo , Pak Neda , Ghaemi Omid
Published: March 2021

: Our objective was to evaluate clinical and computed tomographic features in hospitalized children with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection who were admitted to the pediatric center of excellence, children’s medical center. In this case-series, we report twelve patients with clinical symptoms of acute respiratory infections at the beginning or after admission who have polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-proved (throat swab samples) COVID-19 infection and underwent computed tomography imaging. Six patients had an underlying disease and atypical findings with no clinical suspicion at the beginning. Tachypnea (75%) represented the most common physical finding. Computed tomography was abnormal in 83.3% of patients. Subpleural consolidation, peribronchial thickening, round consolidation, and Halo sign was depicted. The empirical regimen in our hospital included hydroxychloroquine and oseltamivir. Some of the patients managed easily, but others had prolonged hospital stay, especially patients with significant underlying conditions.
Characterization of Blood-isolated, Penicillin-Nonsusceptible Streptococcus pneumoniae From Children Between 2014 and 2018 in Bojnurd, Iran
Authors: Azimian Amir , Khosrojerdi Mahsa , Kebriaei Abdollah , Namdarahmadabad Hasan , Besharati Reza
Published: March 2021

Background: Streptococcus pneumoniae is one of the common bacterial pathogens in pediatrics. In this study, we performed antimicrobial susceptibility testing, serotyping, and molecular typing of blood-isolated strains of pneumococci in Bojnurd. Objectives: In the current study, blood-isolated, penicillin-nonsusceptible S. pneumoniae strains were subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility testing and typing of capsular polysaccharides using the quelling reaction and PCR method, as well as genotyping using the Multi Locus Sequence Typing (MLST) method. Methods: In this study, 51 S. pneumoniae strains were isolated from blood samples of children less than five-years-old in 2014 - 2018. Antibiogram was performed using the Kirby-Bauer method. All of the isolates were serotyped by the Quelling reaction and PCR. The MLST method was applied to determine the molecular types. Results: Our study revealed that the most common serotypes of blood-isolated pneumococci were 19A, 6A/B, 1, 23F, 19F, 14, 15B/C, and 15A, and the common serotypes in Penicillin-nonsusceptible pneumococci (PNSP) isolates were 19F, 19A, 23F, 14, and finally 15A, 6A/B, 1, and 15B/C. The MLST analysis of PNSP isolates revealed that three highly resistant isolates with MIC ≥ 16 belonged to Sweden15A-25-19A (ST63), Taiwan19F-14-1 (ST236), and Taiwan19F-14 (ST236) clones. Conclusions: Regarding the common serotypes in this study, it seems that PCV-13 is a suitable choice for vaccination in this area. We also observed a high prevalence of PNSP and multi-drug resistant (MDR) strains between 2014 and 2018. It seems that the Taiwan19F-14 clone and its related STs played an essential role in the diffusion of antibiotic-resistant S. pneumoniae isolates in Bojnurd.
Treatment of periodontal disease using xanthan based chlorhexidine gel
Authors:   Department of Dentistry, Anugrah Narayan Magadh Medical College and Hospital, Gaya, Bihar, India, Manish Kumar
Published: March 2021

People of all ages are suffering from periodontal disease. It causes indirect damage in the oral cavity. It is of interest to evaluate the efficacy of xanthan-based chlorhexidine gel (Xan-CHX) in patients with mild-severe chronic periodontitis. Five patients with 60 sites were divided in two groups. Group A (treated with SRP) and group B (treated with Chlosite i.e., SRP + CHL). The recorded clinical parameters were Plaque index (PI), Gingival index (GI), Bleeding index (BI), and Clinical attachment Level (CAL) with sub gingival plaque subjected to microbial analysis. Significant reduction was observed in both groups. However, group B (treated with Chlosite i.e., SRP + CHL) showed statistically significant improvement on above mentioned parameters as compared to group A. Data suggest that in the treatment of periodontal disease (viz. PI, GI, BI and CAL) combination of SRP and Chlosite showed added benefits over only SRP.
Evaluating the effectiveness of a ‘Tobacco Monitor’ App in reporting violations of tobacco policy in the community
Authors:   Department of Public Health Dentistry, People’s College of Dental Sciences & Research Centre, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, Vini Mehta
Published: March 2021

It is of interest to evaluate the effectiveness of the “Tobacco Monitor” app in reporting violations of tobacco policy in the community. Hence, a study was conducted amongst the first and second-year undergraduate students of health science colleges of a University. Students were asked to register complaints related to tobacco violations on the tobacco monitor app. Registered complaints were verified by the National Forum for Tobacco Eradication (NFTE) and descriptive statistics were used in reporting the results. A total of 208 complaints on tobacco violation were registered through the Tobacco Monitor app, 163 valid complaints were identified and 45 reports were found invalid. 163 verified valid complaints by NFTE were transferred to the Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) Cell, Maharashtra, India. It should be noted that anti-tobacco laws and national policies help to curb the menace of the tobacco epidemic to an extent. However, robust reporting and sustainable enforcement measures are required in implementing tobacco legislation effectively. We also report that youth are comfortable in using the Tobacco Monitor app for reporting violations on tobacco.
Comparative evaluation of various analgesics in irreversible pulpitis to reduce pain
Authors:   epartment of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha University, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai 600077, India, Solete Pradeep
Published: March 2021

It is of interest to evaluate a single dose of three different analgesics compared to placebo in patients with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis. 120 patients were enrolled with severe pain in this prospective clinical trial. Patients were randomly divided into four groups after shaping and cleaning of root canals. This includes placebo, piroxicam 20mg, acetaminophen 325mg with aceclofenac sodium 100mg and acetaminophen 650mg. Participants were given a questionnaire to note the pain scores at various time intervals (6 hrs, 12 hrs, and 24 hrs) along with the respective tablets in a concealed manner. Data thus collected was analyzed for statistical significance. The severity of pain decreased in all the three interventional groups compared to the control group (p <0.01) at 6 hours. Zerodol-P and dolonex showed better pain reduction in comparison to the placebo and dolo 650 group (p <0.05) at 12 and 24 hours. Data shows that both zerodol-P and dolonex groups had similar effects at all time intervals. Thus, a single dose of analgesic such as Zerodol-P and Dolonex following shaping and cleaning of root canals relieved pain at all time intervals of the treatment. However, Dolo 650 performed better during the initial 6hrs after completion of the shaping and cleaning of root canals compared to the placebo.
Use of Optional Data Curation Features by Users of Harvard Dataverse Repository
Authors: Boyd Ceilyn
Published: March 2021

Objective: Investigate how different groups of depositors vary in their use of optional data curation features that provide support for FAIR research data in the Harvard Dataverse repository.

Methods: A numerical score based upon the presence or absence of characteristics associated with the use of optional features was assigned to each of the 29,295 datasets deposited in Harvard Dataverse between 2007 and 2019. Statistical analyses were performed to investigate patterns of optional feature use amongst different groups of depositors and their relationship to other dataset characteristics.

Results: Members of groups make greater use of Harvard Dataverse's optional features than individual researchers. Datasets that undergo a data curation review before submission to Harvard Dataverse, are associated with a publication, or contain restricted files also make greater use of optional features.

Conclusions: Individual researchers might benefit from increased outreach and improved documentation about the benefits and use of optional features to improve their datasets' level of curation beyond the FAIR-informed support that the Harvard Dataverse repository provides by default. Platform designers, developers, and managers may also use the numerical scoring approach to explore how different user groups use optional application features.
Engaging Researchers in Data Dialogues: Designing Collaborative Programming to Promote Research Data Sharing
Authors: Downey Moira , Lafferty-Hess Sophia , Charbonneau Patrick , Zoss Angela
Published: March 2021

A range of regulatory pressures emanating from funding agencies and scholarly journals increasingly encourage researchers to engage in formal data sharing practices. As academic libraries continue to refine their role in supporting researchers in this data sharing space, one particular challenge has been finding new ways to meaningfully engage with campus researchers. Libraries help shape norms and encourage data sharing through education and training, and there has been significant growth in the services these institutions are able to provide and the ways in which library staff are able to collaborate and communicate with researchers. Evidence also suggests that within disciplines, normative pressures and expectations around professional conduct have a significant impact on data sharing behaviors (Kim and Adler 2015; Sigit Sayogo and Pardo 2013; Zenk-Moltgen et al. 2018). Duke University Libraries' Research Data Management program has recently centered part of its outreach strategy on leveraging peer networks and social modeling to encourage and normalize robust data sharing practices among campus researchers. The program has hosted two panel discussions on issues related to data management—specifically, data sharing and research reproducibility. This paper reflects on some lessons learned from these outreach efforts and outlines next steps.
El poder de un famoso detrás de la cámara
Authors: Rabanal Robert
Published: March 2021

En 1984, después del éxito de la película Blade Runner, Apple encargó al prestigioso director de cine Ridley Scott la campaña de lanzamiento de su Macintosh 128K. Scott no fue el primero en dar el salto del cine a la publicidad, pero esa campaña de 60 segundos de duración está considerada hoy en día una de las campañas más famosas y exitosas de la historia de la publicidad.
Tom Sawyer va a la universidad
Authors: Pastor Lluís
Published: March 2021

Cuando tía Polly le pidió a Tom que pintara la valla no tenía pensado todavía abrir una cuenta bancaria para pagar la universidad de su sobrino. Tom, esa tarde en la que vivió esa tarea como un castigo, imaginó cómo sus amigos podían ayudarle a pintar con cuidado cada uno de los maderos de la cerca.
Cystic proliferation of germline stem cells is necessary to reproductive success and normal mating behavior in medaka
Authors: Arias Padilla Luisa F , Castañeda-Cortés Diana C , Rosa Ivana F , Moreno Acosta Omar D , Hattori Ricardo S , Nóbrega Rafael H , Fernandino Juan I
Published: March 2021

The production of an adequate number of gametes is necessary for normal reproduction, for which the regulation of proliferation from early gonadal development to adulthood is key in both sexes. Cystic proliferation of germline stem cells is an especially important step prior to the beginning of meiosis; however, the molecular regulators of this proliferation remain elusive in vertebrates. Here, we report that ndrg1b is an important regulator of cystic proliferation in medaka. We generated mutants of ndrg1b that led to a disruption of cystic proliferation of germ cells. This loss of cystic proliferation was observed from embryogenic to adult stages, impacting the success of gamete production and reproductive parameters such as spawning and fertilization. Interestingly, the depletion of cystic proliferation also impacted male sexual behavior, with a decrease of mating vigor. These data illustrate why it is also necessary to consider gamete production capacity in order to analyze reproductive behavior.
Anti-ferroptotic mechanism of IL4i1-mediated amino acid metabolism
Authors: Zeitler Leonie , Fiore Alessandra , Meyer Claudia , Russier Marion , Zanella Gaia , Suppmann Sabine , Gargaro Marco , Sidhu Sachdev S , Seshagiri Somasekar , Ohnmacht Caspar , Köcher Thomas , Fallarino Francesca , Linkermann Andreas , Murray Peter J
Published: March 2021

Interleukin-4-induced-1 (IL4i1) is an amino acid oxidase secreted from immune cells. Recent observations have suggested that IL4i1 is pro-tumorigenic via unknown mechanisms. As IL4i1 has homologs in snake venoms (L-amino acid oxidases [LAAO]), we used comparative approaches to gain insight into the mechanistic basis of how conserved amino acid oxidases regulate cell fate and function. Using mammalian expressed recombinant proteins, we found that venom LAAO kills cells via hydrogen peroxide generation. By contrast, mammalian IL4i1 is non-cytotoxic and instead elicits a cell protective gene expression program inhibiting ferroptotic redox death by generating indole-3-pyruvate (I3P) from tryptophan. I3P suppresses ferroptosis by direct free radical scavenging and through the activation of an anti-oxidative gene expression program. Thus, the pro-tumor effects of IL4i1 are likely mediated by local anti-ferroptotic pathways via aromatic amino acid metabolism, arguing that an IL4i1 inhibitor may modulate tumor cell death pathways.
Age of information of a server with energy requirements
Authors: Doncel Josu
Published: March 2021

We investigate a system with Poisson arrivals to two queues. One queue stores the status updates of the process of interest (or data packets) and the other handles the energy that is required to deliver the updates to the monitor. We consider that the energy is represented by packets of discrete unit. When an update ends service, it is sent to the energy queue and, if the energy queue has one packet, the update is delivered successfully and the energy packet disappears; however, in case the energy queue is empty, the update is lost. Both queues can handle, at most, one packet and the service time of updates is exponentially distributed. Using the Stochastic Hybrid System method, we characterize the average Age of Information of this system. Due to the difficulty of the derived expression, we also explore approximations of the average Age of Information of this system.
Equilibrial service composition model in Cloud manufacturing (ESCM) based on non-cooperative and cooperative game theory for healthcare service equipping
Authors: Vaziri Goudarzi Ehsan , Houshmand Mahmoud , Fatahi Valilai Omid , Ghezavati Vahidreza , Bamdad Shahrooz
Published: March 2021

Industry 4.0 is the digitalization of the manufacturing systems based on Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) for developing a manufacturing system to gain efficiency and improve productivity. Cloud Manufacturing (CM) is a paradigm of Industry 4.0. Cloud Manufacturing System (CMS) considers anything as a service. The end product is developed based on the service composition in the CMS according to consumers’ needs. Also, composite services are developed based on the interaction of MCS providers from different geographical locations. Therefore, the appropriate Manufacturing Cloud Service (MCS) composition is an important problem based on the real-world conditions in CMS. The game theory studies the mathematical model development based on interactions between MCS providers according to real-world conditions. This research develops an Equilibrial Service Composition Model in Cloud Manufacturing (ESCM) based on game theory. MCS providers and consumers get benefits mutually based on ESCM. MCS providers are players in the game. The payoff function is developed based on a profit function. Also, the game strategies are the levels of Quality of Service (QoS) based on consumers’ needs in ESCM. Firstly, the article develops a composite service based on a non-cooperative game. The Nash equilibrium point demonstrates the QoS value of composite service and the payoff value for the players. Secondly, the article develops a composite service based on a cooperative game. The players participate in coalitions to develop the composite service based on formal cooperation. The grand coalition demonstrates the QoS value of composite service and the payoff value for the players in the cooperative game. The research has compared the games’ results. The players’ payoff and the QoS value are better in the cooperative game than in the non-cooperative game. Therefore, the MCS providers and consumers are satisfied mutually in the cooperative game based on ESCM. Finally, the article has applied ESCM in a Healthcare Service to equip 24 hospitals in the best time.
A heat-shock 20 protein isolated from watermelon (ClHSP22.8) negatively regulates the response of Arabidopsis to salt stress via multiple signaling pathways
Authors: He Yanjun , Yao Yixiu , Li Lili , Li Yulin , Gao Jie , Fan Min
Published: March 2021

Heat-shock protein 20s (HSP20) were initially shown to play a role during heat shock stress; however, recent data indicated that HSP20 proteins are also involved in abiotic stress in plants. Watermelon is known to be vulnerable to various stressors; however, HSP20 proteins have yet to be investigated and characterized in the watermelon. In a previous study, we identified a negative regulator of salt stress response from watermelon: ClHSP22.8, a member of the HSP20 family. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and promoter::β-glucuronidase (GUS) analysis revealed that ClHSP22.8 was expressed widely in a range of different tissues from the watermelon, but particularly in the roots of 7-day-old seedlings and flowers. Furthermore, qRT-PCR and GUS staining showed that the expression of ClHSP22.8 was significantly repressed by exogenous abscisic acid (ABA) and salt stress. The over-expression of ClHSP22.8 in Arabidopsis lines resulted in hypersensitivity to ABA and reduced tolerance to salt stress. Furthermore, the expression patterns of key regulators associated with ABA-dependent and independent pathways, and other stress-responsive signaling pathways, were also repressed in transgenic lines that over-expressed ClHSP22.8. These results indicated that ClHSP22.8 is a negative regulator in plant response to salt stress and occurs via ABA-dependent and independent, and other stress-responsive signaling pathways.