bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cytotoxic Effect of 6-Ethyl-Chenodeoxycholic Acid and Cabazitaxel on PC-3 Cells
Authors: Zalzala M. H. , Al-khfajy W. S. , Khaleel R. A.
Published: February 2023

Introduction. Chemotherapy with Cabazitaxel (CBZ) is a typical first-line treatment option for naïive castration-resistant prostate cancer resistant to docetaxel. On the other hand, Cabazitaxel's therapeutic success is constrained by chemoresistance and side effects.

Aim. To assess whether 6 alpha-ethylchenodeoxycholic acid (6-ECDCA), a selective agonist for bile acid receptors will enhance the efficacy of CBZ in androgen-independent prostate cancer cells.

Materials and methods. The 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) viability assay was used to assess the cytotoxicity of 6-ECDCA and CBZ medicines or their combinations against the human prostate cancer cell line (PC-3). The combination outcome suggested by Chou TC et al. was then evaluated using the combination index (CI) to find out the nature of synergism, antagonism, and additive effect of the drug’s combination. Furthermore, the Dose-Reduction Index (DRI) was determined to measure how many times the dose could be reduced for each drug in a synergistic combination.

Results and discussion. Analysis of the dose-effect curve showed that the treatment of PC-3 cells with CBZ alone or combined with 6-ECDCA for 48 h led to 50 % cytotoxicity of 20.5 nM and 4.7 nM, respectively. 6-ECDCA at 1.77 µM had an additive effect based on the CI value, which was 1.02, while at 21.02 µM, the CI was 0.54 which designates a strong synergistic effect. The combination of CBZ and 6-ECDCA at a submaximal lower dose by 6-folds of each one produced a 95 % cell death than treatment with either agent alone.

Conclusion. The Combination index plot showed CI ≤ l for all combinations used in this study, which indicates additive and synergistic interactions between CBZ and 6-ECDCA. The significant impact of 6-ECDCA in combination with CBZ for treating androgen-independent prostate cancer cells was confirmed by this study to be preferred to the treatment with a single drug.
Development and Validation of Analytical HPLC Method for Identification and Assay of Enoxaparin Sodium in Injectable Preparations
Authors: Pshenichnov E. A. , Kondrasheva K. V.
Published: February 2023

Introduction. Enoxaparin sodium-containing drugs are included in relevant protocols for COVID-19 therapy. An increase in the production volume of such drugs leads to a demand for available and precise methods of identification and quantitative measurement of the active ingredient in the preparations. Considering the fact that pharmacopoeial methods require significant amount of expensive standards and reagents that are unavailable for numerous laboratories, it is relevant to develop a more available method that will accelerate and make cheaper the process of quality control for enoxaparin sodium-containing preparations.

Aim. To develop and validate a simple, economic, and precise method of gel-permeation HPLC with the application of a refractive index detector for the evaluation of enoxaparin sodium in preparations for injection.

Materials and methods. Samples of enoxaparin sodium-containing substances and commercial preparations were studied. The identification and quantitative content of the active ingredient were performed by the method of gel-permeation HPLC using a 1260 Infinity (Agilent Technologies, USA) chromatograph equipped with a refractive index detector.

Results and discussion. The authors analyzed standard validation characteristics: specificity, linearity, precision, and accuracy of the method. The analysis revealed high specificity and suitability of the proposed method to chromatographic symmetrical multiprocessing systems. The method is recommended for routine control of finished and semi-finished pharmaceutical preparations containing from 25 to 200 mg/ml of enoxaparin sodium-containing.

Conclusion. The proposed method can be used for routine quality control of enoxaparin sodium-containing preparations for injection.
USING TINKERCAD TO SUPPORT ONLINE THE LABORATORY WORK ON THE DESIGN OF MICROPROCESSOR SYSTEMS AT TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY
Authors: Golubev Leonty P. , Tkach Mikhailo M. , Makatora Dmytro A.
Published: February 2023

This article reviews the possibility of using the Tinkercad Internet service for online study of the subjects connected with microprocessor systems. During the global coronavirus pandemic, online classes based on the Internet technologies have become virtually the only effective method of learning. However, while lectures can be taught successfully with the help of video conferences such as Zoom, Skype, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet etc., it is almost impossible to perform laboratory and practical work in the field of designing microprocessor systems with the help of these tools. Therefore, the authors suggest a new approach to practicums on the subjects related to microprocessor systems using tools of the Tinkercad Internet service. The existing methods and means of remote work with breadboard Arduino have been analyzed. The advantages of the Tinkercad Internet service in comparison with other tools of remote work have been disclosed. The service capability for microprocessor systems design has been considered. The article provides examples of elaborated lab works by means of the Tinkercad Internet service. Available capabilities and instruments in the system have been detailed. The process of learning based on the Tinkercad Internet service has been developed. Consequently, the use of the Tinkercad Internet service during e-learning gives the possibility to do lab works and microprocessor system design practicums without actual equipment, and the methods suggested by the authors assure the quality of students’ awareness in this direction. The prospective direction of this Internet service application can be the design of 3D printing models and their use during e-learning of other subjects, in particular Physics (Electrics section), Theoretical Basics of Electrical Engineering (DC section), as well as other sciences related to electronic circuit design.
EXPERIENCES OF CONDUCTING ONLINE EXAM PROCTORING IN LOW-RESOURCE SETTINGS: A SRI LANKAN CASE STUDY
Authors: Felsinger Dilky N. , Halloluwa Thilina , Fonseka C. L. Ishani
Published: February 2023

Online tests are becoming increasingly common as online learning gains popularity. Online assessments are more prone to academic dishonesty than traditional exams. Ad hoc online proctoring techniques have been used by institutions to prevent academic misconduct during online tests. In contexts with unreliable infrastructure, such as slow internet connections and a lack of compatible equipment, it is challenging to figure out how to employ technology to proctor online tests swiftly and efficiently. The goal of this study was to gain a better understanding of the context and requirements for scaling up online exams in Sri Lanka as well as to investigate what options for improving the subsequent deployment of online proctoring systems in low-resource settings exist in order to maintain the caliber of academic programs. In this work, an in-class assignment for a Software Engineering course at a higher education institution in Sri Lanka was manually proctored using video conferencing software in a completely remote context. A post-exam feedback survey was used to collect information about participants' experiences with online proctoring. The survey was supposed to reveal the experiences about the devices used, internet connectivity, the factors that led to stress and perceptions about cheating during the exam. The data obtained from both the assignment and the survey was analyzed in order to make well-informed decisions about the future deployment of online proctoring technologies. This paper presents evidence of the experiment that strongly recommends that online exam proctoring solutions be developed after a careful examination of the constraints such as internet connection speed, stability, and affordability, as well as sudden power outages of the environment in which they will be utilised, in order to unlock the true potential of e-learning technologies.
USABILITY OF PROGRAM INTERFACES FOR TEACHING 3D GRAPHICS IN A SCHOOL COURSE OF INFORMATICS
Authors: Mosiiuk Oleksandr O. , Sikora Yaroslava B. , Usata Olena Yu.
Published: February 2023

The study of three-dimensional graphics is an important part of a school course of informatics. This is a consequence of the fact that in today's world it is impossible to imagine a sphere of human activity where 3D modeling and 3D printing technologies are not used. At the same time, issues related to the study of this field of information technology at school are unfortunately not sufficiently outlined. Students' perception of the complex interfaces of the corresponding graphic software is also a problematic point. At the same time, the degree of their impact on educational activity has not been studied at a sufficient level. Considering that the complexity of organizing the interaction between the user and the control elements is inherent in the vast majority of graphic 3D programs, the purpose of the exploratory research was to study this very issue only in the context of the educational learning process. When choosing software for testing, the following selection criteria were followed: the software must be distributed on the basis of the open GPL license, and online services must be able to be freely registered and used in work; it is necessary that graphic complexes of three-dimensional graphics satisfy sufficiently democratic system requirements of school computers; the presence of a large number of localizations is also important, and in terms of functionality, 3D programs should approach similar leading commercial software tools and corresponding online services. In the work, considerable attention was paid to the description of research planning. In particular, it was indicated how the sample of respondents was formed and the main approaches to testing program interfaces in the context of their use in the educational process were revealed. An online tool for testing - UsabilityHub.com - is described separately. The obtained data are described and supplemented by specialized graphic heat maps of clicks. As a result, the data is analyzed in detail, it is indicated that the obtained results of the exploration research are an important basis for conducting further scientific research related to this topic and will allow better investigation of problematic issues. The authors also formulate recommendations for the study of three-dimensional graphics editors in a school course of informatics and note methodological points that teachers should pay attention to when preparing for classes.
De Kaapkolonie: van VOC-verversingsstation naar exploitatie- en strafkolonie
Authors:   , Aarts Adrianus Antonius Cornelis Maria
Published: February 2023

This research concerns the role of the Cape Colony in the VOC empire in the eighteenth century, in particular patterns of trade and forced migration are researched. In the framework of this research, I am looking not only at the well-known role of the Cape as a refresh station for passing VOC ships to and from Asia, but also at the exports from the Cape to the empire of the VOC in the Indian Ocean region. Migration flow of slaves and exiles from the Indian Ocean region to the Cape Colony are examined as well. Sources for this project can be found both in Cape Town archives and in the VOC-archives in The Hague. I demonstrate that the Cape Colony in the eighteenth century – next to its continued function as a refresh station – increasingly assumed an important function in the VOC empire as a provider for European food staples and a place of exile for political and criminal prisoners.
Optimizing visceral leishmaniasis treatment in Eastern Africa
Authors:   , Verrest Luka
Published: February 2023

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a neglected tropical disease caused by the Leishmania parasite. There is a critical need for development of more effective and user-friendly treatment and diagnostics for this devastating and potentially fatal disease, especially in Eastern Africa, where treatment efficacy is suboptimal in this vulnerable and mainly pediatric population. To minimize the risks for either treatment failure or toxicity, VL drugs should be dosed precisely to reach the right drug exposure in the patient. To achieve this, pharmacokinetic studies are needed to describe the absorption, distribution, metabolism and elimination of VL drugs. In the first part of this thesis, the pharmacokinetics of paromomycin and miltefosine were studied, two favorable treatment options for VL. An optimized paromomycin-miltefosine combination regimen in Eastern African VL patients was developed, resulting in satisfactory cure rates and desired drug exposure levels in both pediatric and adult patients. Moreover, the impact of malnutrition and severity of disease on drug pharmacokinetics and exposure were studied and substantial and potentially clinically relevant effects of these factors were discovered. Secondly, the Leishmania parasite dynamics has been characterized in VL patients and the relationship between blood parasite load and relapse of disease, which is a long-term event that is difficult to predict. This thesis demonstrated that blood parasite load is a promising biomarker to predict relapse of disease already early after treatment. The knowledge gained in this thesis is a step forward to optimization, individualization and monitoring of VL treatment in Eastern Africa.
Airway Clearance in the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Makhabah Dewi Nurul , Ambrosino Nicolino
Published: February 2023

Mechanically-ventilated patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) may suffer from retained secretions from several causes. Airway clearance techniques have the potential to improve mucociliary clearance by reducing mucus plugging and enhancing the removal of secretions, including inflammatory cells and bacteria. This short review describes recent progress in airway clearance management in ICU patients.
EDUCAÇÃO AMBIENTAL NO ENSINO SUPERIOR TECNOLÓGICO
Authors: Barros Laércio de Jesus
Published: February 2023

O objetivo dessa obra é analisar as DCN para a Educação Ambiental (EA), instituídas pela Resolução do Ministério da Educação Nº 02 de 15/06/2012, e o PPC do Curso Superior de Logística, do Instituto Federal do ES, com o propósito de identificar ações e metodologias adequadas em EA e possíveis espaços para adequação. A estratégia metodológica utilizada foi a pesquisa qualitativa com revisão de literatura, e análise documental em legislações ambientais brasileiras, e o PPC do curso citado. Os resultados foram tabulados em planilha no software Microsoft Excel para posterior tratamento e criação da estatística descritiva visando a análise e interpretação dos dados levantados por meio da elaboração de quadros e tabelas. Análises encontradas demonstraram que nenhuma das disciplinas obrigatórias do curso de Logística, tratam de assuntos relacionados à questão ambiental. A matriz do curso está estruturada de forma tal que a Educação Ambiental é ofertada apenas em disciplina optativa contemplando as normativas vigentes na Resolução CP/CNE nº 2, de 15 de junho de 2012 das Diretrizes Nacionais para a Educação Ambiental. Além disso, verificou-se que todas as disciplinas obrigatórias não demonstram em suas ementas que desenvolveram a questão ambiental de um modo transversal, contínuo e permanente (Decreto Nº 4.281/2002), por meio da realização de atividades curriculares e extracurriculares.
LOGÍSTICA REVERSA NO FATECLOG
Authors: Barros Laércio de Jesus
Published: February 2023

Os discursos referentes às práticas de Logística Reversa, ao longo dos últimos anos, vêm ganhando força nos debates e estudos referentes ao desenvolvimento das economias ao redor do mundo. Tem-se discutido a necessidade da Logística Reversa buscando-se aumentar a compreensão sobre o papel das empresas no contexto do Desenvolvimento Sustentável. Esta obra teve como principal objetivo analisar quantitativamente como se comportou a produção científica  sobre a temática, materializada na forma de artigos digitais e publicados nos anais do FATECLOG. Como resultado, averiguou-se que o ano com maior percentual de publicações no período foi 2018 onde 24 artigos foram publicados; constatou-se que os autores não dão continuidade nas pesquisas, pois dentro de um universo de 315 autores encontrados, 93% publicaram apenas 01 artigo no período analisado; a Faculdade de Tecnologia (FATEC) – na cidade de AMERICANA colaborou com 18% do total de artigos encontrados; Em relação à autoria Adalberto Zorzo é o mais profícuo, com 07 publicações, e os seis autores que mais colaboraram foram responsáveis pela publicação de aproximadamente 25% do total dos arquivos encontrados nos anais do FATECLOG. Ficou constatado que 95% dos artigos foram publicados em parceria, e destas, a parceria de 03 autores fica em evidência com 33% dos artigos encontrados.
PERFIL DO CONSUMIDOR DE AÇÚCAR ORGÂNICO
Authors: Anceschi Renata , Merlo Edgard Monforte , Grava Natália Ferro de , Prates Glaucia Aparecida
Published: February 2023

O objetivo desse trabalho foi identificar o perfil do consumidor de açúcar orgânico. As definições de um alimento orgânico foram detalhadas conforme legislação específica. Foi realizada uma pesquisa com abordagem predominantemente quantitativa e utilizado um levantamento exploratório com a utilização de survey on line. Como resultado dos dados coletados pela pesquisa realizada com 282 entrevistados por link compartilhado e com 16 perguntas, foi possível identificar que o consumidor de açúcar orgânico tem elevado grau de escolaridade e a renda média está entre 3 e 6 salários-mínimos. Além disso, o consumidor de açúcar orgânico prefere o tipo de açúcar denominado demerara e não reside sozinho.
ANÁLISE DE INDICADORES DE DESEMPENHO LOGÍSTICO DO BANCO MUNDIAL: PORTUGAL
Authors: Anceschi Renata , Jesus Everaildes , Resende Daiana , Prates Glaucia Aparecida , Galli Lesley Carina do Lago Attadia
Published: February 2023

Este trabalho tem como objetivo analisar os indicadores de desempenho logístico de Portugal a partir dos indicadores de desempenho produzidos e disponibilizados pelo Banco Mundial, esses indicadores são denominados LPI (Logistics Performance Index – indicadores de desempenho logístico). Para a realização desse trabalho foi feito um levantamento de dados por meio de uma pesquisa aplicada de carácter descritivo e abordagem quantitativa, também foi realizado um levantamento em base secundária como método de pesquisa. O resultado dessa pesquisa permitirá avaliar e comparar dados logísticos disponibilizadas pelo LPI que podem ajudar países e empresas a tomarem decisões baseados nesses indicadores de desempenho logísticos disponibilizados pelo Banco Mundial para diversos países.
PREMISSAS IMPORTANTES E BOAS PRÁTICAS PARA FORMATAÇÃO DE FRANQUIAS
Authors: Farah Solange Pereira dos Santos , De Andrade El Rassi Thais , Souza Tiago Palmieri Martins de , Farah Alessandro Fraga
Published: February 2023

Franchising é um sistema de expansão empresarial, pela qual o franqueador cede ao franqueado o direito de uso de marca e transferência de know-how. O presente estudo tem como objetivos analisar premissas importantes para formatação de franquias e boas práticas. Serão analisados o que é primordial para expandir uma empresa pelo Franchising, segundo a Lei brasileira, e o que deve ser monitorado para uma gestão eficiente. O estudo possibilitou constatar que para o sucesso de uma rede de franquias alguns dos fatores que devem ser levados em consideração são: Definição bem estruturada do perfil do franqueado; Auxílio ao franqueado na escolha do ponto; Análise do capital de giro ideal para operação do franqueado; Clareza no suporte prestado. Quando não seguidos
What is the best anesthesia method for circumcision? Comparison of local and general anesthesia: Prospective clinical study
Authors: Kandemir Emre , Toprak Kenan , Tahra Ahmet , Efiloğlu Özgür , Atış Gökhan , Yıldırım Asıf
Published: February 2023

Objective: It was aimed to compare the methods of local anesthesia and general anesthesia with circumcision study questionnaire applied before and after circumcision. Material and Methods: Parents of children aged 0-12 years who applied for circumcision between June and December 2021 who agreed to participate in the study were asked to fill out the circumcision study questionnaire. All patients were operated with same surgeon and surgical method. Patients were divided into local and general anesthesia groups, and data were compared. Results: Our study included 282 patients; general anesthesia was applied to 132 patients (48.9%), and local anesthesia was applied to 144 patients (51.1%). Age and weight averages of patients who were administered local anesthesia and age preferences suitable for circumcision were significantly lower than those in general anesthesia group (p:0.001). There was no significant difference between socioeconomic levels, educational status and reasons for circumcision in both groups (p≥0.05). Patients’ need for postoperative care and recovery time was significantly lower in the local anesthesia group (p:0.001). Conclusion: Circumcision is a surgical operation that can be performed safely with local or general anesthesia. Parents who want circumcision in the early months of life mostly prefer local anesthesia. Postoperative recovery time is shorter in this group. Preference for anesthesia has changed in favor of general anesthesia in advanced ages, including the sexual development period. The knowledge and awareness level of our society about circumcision has increased compared to previous years. Keywords: circumcision, local anesthesia, general anesthesia, urinary tract infection
Efficacy of combination of daily tadalafil and solifenacin in patients with storage symptom predominant lower urinary tract symptoms
Authors: Hacıislamoğlu Ahmet , Yavuzsan Abdullah Hızır
Published: February 2023

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of tadalafil 5mg+solifenacin 5mg combination in terms of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and erectile functions in benign prostate hyperplasia patients with predominant storage symptoms. Material and Methods: Male patients over the age of 40 who presented with LUTS with predominant storage symptoms between January 2019 and December 2021 were included into the study. Daily tadalafil 5mg and solifenacin 5mg treatment were started to the patients. Overactive bladder symptom score (OABSS), international prostate symptom score (IPSS) for LUTS, and international erectile function index-erectile function (IIEF-EF) questionnaires were used for erectile function. Frequency of daily urinary frequency, frequency of nocturia, urgency and urinary incontinence were analyzed with a three-day bladder diary. Twelve weeks later, IPSS, OABSS and IIEF-EF scores of the patients were evaluated. Results: When the symptom scores and bladder diaries of the patients before and after 12 weeks of treatment were compared, significant decrease in IPSS scores (both voiding, storage and total) (p<0.001 for each), significant increase in IIEF-EF scores (p<0.001), and significant increase in Qmax value elevation was observed. When the bladder diaries were compared, the number of daytime micturitions, the number of nocturia and the number of urgency decreased in the 12th month after tadalafil+solifenacin treatment (p<0.001). Conclusion: The combination of tadalafil 5mg and solifenacin 5mg daily is an effective and safe treatment for male patients with storage symptoms predominant LUTS/ED. Keywords: benign prostate hyperplasia, storage, tadalafil, solifenacin, erectile function
Impact of urethrovesical anastomotic leakage after robotic radical prostatectomy on early postoperative continence
Authors: Kılıç Mert , Madendere Serdar , Eden Arzu Baygül , Tekkalan Fadimana Bozkurt , Köseoğlu Ersin , Balbay Mevlana Derya
Published: February 2023

Objective: This study aimed to assess the urethrovesical anastomotic leakage (UAL) and associated factors in patients who underwent robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) and its effect on early continence. Material and Methods: The data of 81 patients who underwent RARP between February 2017 and June 2022 were evaluated in this retrospective analysis. On the seventh postoperative day, we performed a cystography to determine whether the patients had UAL. Uni- and multivariate analyses were done to investigate the factors that could lead to UAL. Continence rates were recorded in patients at 6-12 weeks after surgery. Results: Overall 25 patients (31%) had UAL; of them 12 (15%) were mild, eight (10%) were moderate, and five (6%) were extensive. A drain/ serum creatinine ratio >1.5 and a prostate volume >53 cm3 were determined to be significant in predicting UAL in both the uni- and multivariate analyses (p=0.017 and p=0.046, respectively). On the postoperative second or third day, of the 36 patients who had drain output greater than 100 ml, eight (22%) had a high drain/serum creatinine ratio (>1.5), seven (88%) of which had UAL. According to the early period follow-up data, incontinence was prevalent in 9 (36%) of the patients with UAL and 20 (%37) of the patients without UAL (p=0.959). Conclusion: Cystography is an effective method for detecting leakage after RARP. A large prostate volume (>53 cm3) and a high postoperative drain/serum creatinine ratio (>1.5) were found to be associated with UAL. UAL had no effect on early continence. Keywords: anastomotic leak, cystography, prostatectomy, robot-assisted, urinary incontinence
Determining the learning curve for robot-assisted radical perineal prostatectomy in surgeons familiar with robotic retropubic prostatectomy
Authors: Çömez Yusuf İlker , Balcı Melih , Sökmen Doğukan , Şeker Kamil Gökhan , Tuğcu Volkan
Published: February 2023

Objective: To investigate the learning curve for robot assisted laparoscopic radical perineal prostatectomy (robotic RPP) for surgeons who already perform transperitoneal robot assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy. Material and Methods: A total of initial 120 robotic RPP cases were analyzed for perioperative data from single surgeon performing to determine the learning curve. Perioperative all data are collected including operation time, estimated blood loss, postoperative length of stay, complications and positive surgical margin results. The consecutive patients were classified into four groups: cases 1–30 (Group 1), cases 31–60 (Group 2), cases 61–90 (Group 3) and cases 91-120 (Group 4). Results: Median age of 61.4 (46-73) years and PSA level was 8.4 (2-32). Mean operative time was 143.2 minutes, and the length of surgery progressively decreased over time (from group 1 to group 4; P<001). Mean console time was 90.6 minutes and significant differences was found group 3 vs. 4 (p=0.047). The mean length of stay was 1.6 days, and significantly decrease after 60 cases over time (P<0.001). Mean removal of the urethral catheter significantly earlier in group 4 (P1vs4=0.012). There was no statistically significant difference between the groups with respect to pathologic tumor Gleason score, positive surgical margine of the specimen and complications. Conclusions: This study suggests that surgical qualification for robotic RPP can be obtained at least after 90 cases for an experienced robotic surgeon. Keywords: prostatectomy, robot-assisted, perineal, learning curve, prostate cancer
The Effectiveness of Using Hand Puppet in Teaching Speaking
Authors: Moka Suciati Faradilla Arafiah , Ma’rifatulloh Sayid
Published: February 2023

In this study, the researcher attaches several research problems. Before the treatment, students' ability to speak was still lacking because students were still studying speaking lessons in the usual way, such as only explaining the material and practicing speaking without media. After the treatment, the students' abilities were further improved because they were taught speaking lessons by practicing using the Hand Puppet media. There was a significant difference, namely the increasing ability of students. Students are more straightforward in speaking when using the Hand Puppet media. Researchers used the pre-experimental method to obtain score data. Researchers conducted a normality test to find out whether the data was normal or not. Based on the normality test of the data that has been carried out by the researchers, it shows that sig. 2-tailed is 0.200 meaning that the data is normally distributed, followed by a simple paired t-test. based on the Testing of Hypothesis Terms, If the value of t is sig. <0.05, Ha is accepted and H0 is rejected. on the simple paired t-test calculation, the data shows sig. (2-tail) 0.000. The data is smaller than 0.05, meaning that H0 is rejected and Ha is accepted.
Relief of the Höfðabrekkujökull forefield, South Iceland, in light of geomorphological mapping
Authors: Wisniewski Edward , Andrzejewski Leon , Olszewski Antoni
Published: February 2023

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A data set of gridded daily temperature in Iceland, 1949–2010
Authors: Crochet Philippe , Jóhannesson Tómas
Published: February 2023

A high spatial resolution data set of gridded daily surface air temperature in Iceland has been derived for the period 1949–2010. Between 60–80\% of the daily estimates are within ±1°C depending on the month of the year and between 90–95\% are within ±2°C of independent station measurements in 1995–2010. The data set is thus well suited for various hydrological, glaciological and climatological modelling studies. The quality of the gridded data set is found to be best near the coast because of the higher station density. Including data from automatic stations, the establishment of which started in the early 90’s, was found to improve the data set. Derived 30-year mean monthly maps compare favourably with reference maps derived directly from monthly mean station temperatures with more sophisticated statistical techniques. An analysis of decadal temperature variations based on the data set shows that the decade 2001–2010 was the warmest of the last 60 years and makes it possible to identify spatial patterns in the decadal variations. As an example, the spatial distribution of the warming of recent decades shows that it is more pronounced in the inland compared with coastal areas.
Seismicity observed under Snæfellsjökull volcano
Authors: Fuchs Florian , Lupi M. , Jakobsdóttir Steinunn S. , Thordarson Thorvaldur , Miller S. A.
Published: February 2023

The Snæfellsnes peninsula in western Iceland is characterized by Pleistocene volcanism dominated by alkalic magmatism across an extinct (>6 Ma) axial rift zone of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Although Iceland has an extensive seismic coverage, no systematic seismic monitoring is in place on the Snæfellsnes peninsula. In this paper, we present results of a three months field campaign in the Snæfellsnes peninsula and show for the first time that the region is (micro) seismically active in the depth range of 8–15 km. We identified and located a total of 29 seismic events that occurred in close proximity of the Snæfellsjökull volcano, with most events clustering beneath the volcano in swarm sequences. We propose that seismicity is associated with fluid-induced fracturing related to one or more magmatic reservoir(s), which may be elucidated in future seismic campaigns. Our observations are the first step towards the understanding of the plumbing system of the Snæfellsjökull volcano.
Grain characteristics of silicic Katla tephra layers indicate a fairly stable eruption environment between 2800 and 8100 years ago
Authors: Þorsteinsdóttir Edda Sóley , Larsen Guðrún , Guðmundsdóttir Esther R.
Published: February 2023

Grain size and shape analyses were performed on silicic to intermediate Katla tephra (SILK) formed 2800–8100 years ago to examine whether the grain characteristics had changed with time, and in such a case, could they reflect changes in the eruption environment and/or changes in chemical composition. No systematic changes with time were observed in the grain shape parameters (elongation, ruggedness and circularity), however, the second oldest tephra layer SILK-A11 does not have the typical elongated grain shape that characterizes the other SILK tephra layers. Chemical analyses indicate that the SILK layers can be divided into three subgroups but no correlation between chemical composition and the grain parameters is observed. Changes in grain size of the SILK tephra layers with time indicate an apparent increase in grain size occurring about 6000 years ago, where largest grains are of category -3 Φ compared to 0 Φ in the older layers, all sampled at similar distance from source. This change in grain size could result from variation in ice thickness in the Katla caldera, with finer grain size between 6000–8200 years ago being due to thicker ice cover and greater availability of meltwater for magma fragmentation. Conversely, the younger coarser grained SILK layers may have formed under a thinner ice cover. A shift of the eruption sites to an area with thinner ice is also a possibility. However, no radical changes in the eruption environment 2800–8100 years ago are demonstrated by variations in grain characteristics, a conclusion further supported by large jökulhlaups from Mýrdalsjökull ice cap during this period
Changes in the flow of Breiðamerkurjökull reflected by bending of the Esjufjallarönd medial moraine
Authors: Guðmundsson Snævarr , Björnsson Helgi
Published: February 2023

The Esjufjallarönd medial moraine separates two branches of the south flowing Breiðamerkurjökull outlet of Vatnajökull ice cap, Southeast-Iceland. The more rapidly flowing easternmost branch (Norðlingalægðarjökull) descends along a trench, reaching 200–300 m beneath sea level, and calves into the Jökulsárlón lagoon. Recently the rate of calving has increased and a depression has formed in the glacier surface. Hence, inflow of ice toward the eastern branch has led to a lateral shift of the Esjufjallarönd medial moraine bending it eastward by up to 900 m, during the period 2006 to 2016. Thus, the moraine has been shifted by ice flow into the lagoon.
The molecular basis of differential host responses to avian influenza viruses in avian species with differing susceptibility
Authors: Morris Katrina M. , Mishra Anamika , Raut Ashwin A. , Gaunt Eleanor R. , Borowska Dominika , Kuo Richard I. , Wang Bo , Vijayakumar Periyasamy , Chingtham Santhalembi , Dutta Rupam , Baillie Kenneth , Digard Paul , Vervelde Lonneke , Burt David W. , Smith Jacqueline
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) viruses, such as H5N1, continue to pose a serious threat to animal agriculture, wildlife and to public health. Controlling and mitigating this disease in domestic birds requires a better understanding of what makes some species highly susceptible (such as turkey and chicken) while others are highly resistant (such as pigeon and goose). Susceptibility to H5N1 varies both with species and strain; for example, species that are tolerant of most H5N1 strains, such as crows and ducks, have shown high mortality to emerging strains in recent years. Therefore, in this study we aimed to examine and compare the response of these six species, to low pathogenic avian influenza (H9N2) and two strains of H5N1 with differing virulence (clade 2.2 and clade 2.3.2.1) to determine how susceptible and tolerant species respond to HPAI challenge.

Methods

Birds were challenged in infection trials and samples (brain, ileum and lung) were collected at three time points post infection. The transcriptomic response of birds was examined using a comparative approach, revealing several important discoveries.

Results

We found that susceptible birds had high viral loads and strong neuro-inflammatory response in the brain, which may explain the neurological symptoms and high mortality rates exhibited following H5N1 infection. We discovered differential regulation of genes associated with nerve function in the lung and ileum, with stronger differential regulation in resistant species. This has intriguing implications for the transmission of the virus to the central nervous system (CNS) and may also indicate neuro-immune involvement at the mucosal surfaces. Additionally, we identified delayed timing of the immune response in ducks and crows following infection with the more deadly H5N1 strain, which may account for the higher mortality in these species caused by this strain. Lastly, we identified candidate genes with potential roles in susceptibility/resistance which provide excellent targets for future research.

Discussion

This study has helped elucidate the responses underlying susceptibility to H5N1 influenza in avian species, which will be critical in developing sustainable strategies for future control of HPAI in domestic poultry.
Systematic diurnal bias of the CMA-MESO model in southern China: Characteristics and correction
Authors: Chen Yuxiao , Wang Liwen , Leung Jeremy Cheuk-Hin , Xu Daosheng , Chen Jing , Zhang Banglin
Published: February 2023

Model error is an important source of numerical weather prediction (NWP) errors. Among model errors, the systematic diurnal bias plays an important role in high-resolution numerical weather prediction models. The main purpose of this study is to explore the characteristics of the systematic diurnal bias of a high-resolution NWP model in southern China and reduce the diurnal bias to improve the forecast results, hence providing a better background field for data assimilation. Based on the China Meteorological Administration Meso-scale (CMA-MESO) high-resolution NWP model, a 15-day sequential numerical weather prediction experiment was performed in southern China, and the forecast results were analyzed. A sequential bias correction scheme (SBCS) based on analysis increments was designed to reduce the systematic diurnal bias of the CMA-MESO model, and 15-day sequential comparative experiments were carried out. The analysis results showed that the CMA-MESO model has apparent systematic diurnal biases, and the characteristics differ among variables. A large diurnal bias was mainly found in the lower model layers, and it was concentrated in areas with a complex underlying surface for the horizontal distribution, such as the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and South China Coast. The results based on the 15-day sequential experiment showed that the sequential bias correction scheme partly reduced the systematic diurnal biases of the CMA-MESO model. The mean biases of meridional wind, zonal wind, potential temperature, and water vapor mixing ratio were reduced by 45%, 35%, 20%, and 10%, respectively, and the root mean square errors (RMSEs) were reduced by approximately 5%. This study revealed the characteristics of the systematic diurnal bias of CMA-MESO model in southern China, which may be caused by the diurnal variation in the thermal and dynamic exchange on underlying surfaces. The effectiveness of the sequential bias correction scheme was also verified, and the results had good prospects for providing more reference information for high-resolution numerical prediction models and data assimilation.
Actions do not clearly impact auditory memory
Authors: Font-Alaminos Marta , Paraskevoudi Nadia , SanMiguel Iria
Published: February 2023

When memorizing a list of words, those that are read aloud are remembered better than those read silently, a phenomenon known as the production effect. There have been several attempts to understand the production effect, however, actions alone have not been examined as possible contributors. Stimuli that coincide with our own actions are processed differently compared to stimuli presented passively to us. These sensory response modulations may have an impact on how action-revolving inputs are stored in memory. In this study, we investigated whether actions could impact auditory memory. Participants listened to sounds presented either during or in between their actions. We measured electrophysiological responses to the sounds and tested participants’ memory of them. Results showed attenuation of sensory responses for action-coinciding sounds. However, we did not find a significant effect on memory performance. The absence of significant behavioral findings suggests that the production effect may be not dependent on the effects of actions per se. We conclude that action alone is not sufficient to improve memory performance, and thus elicit a production effect.
Comparison of the endoscopic thyroidectomy via areola approach and open thyroidectomy: A propensity score matched cohort study of 302 patients in the treatment of papillary thyroid non-microcarcinoma
Authors: Li Yujun , Liu Zhaodi , Song Zhuolin , Wang Yong , Yu Xing , Wang Ping
Published: February 2023

Background

The endoscopic thyroidectomy via areola approach (ETAA) is widely used in patients with benign thyroid tumors and papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC). Its safety and complication rates are reported to be similar to open thyroidectomy (OT). This study aimed to evaluate the safety and feasibility of ETAA, compared with OT, in patients with papillary thyroid non-microcarcinoma (PTNMC).

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed all patients with PTNMC who underwent ETAA or OT in our hospital from January 2017 to December 2021. A total of 302 patients were matched at a ratio of 1:1 by the propensity score matching (PSM) analysis and surgical outcomes. Safety and feasibility were analyzed between two groups.

Results

Before PSM, patients in the ETAA group were younger (p < 0.001) and had a larger proportion of female patients (p < 0.001) with a lower BMI (p < 0.001) compared with the OT group. The ETAA group also had a higher proportion of unilateral thyroidectomy (p = 0.002). PSM was used to create a highly comparable control group. After PSM, the ETAA group had a longer operative time (p < 0.001), larger blood loss (p = 0.046) and total drainage amount (p = 0.035), with higher C-reactive protein (p = 0.023) and better cosmetic outcomes (p < 0.001). There were no significant differences in the following clinicopathologic characteristics: number of dissected positive lymph nodes, rate of recurrent laryngeal nerve signal weakened, parathyroid autotransplantation, postoperative pain, hospital stay, complications, and oncologic completeness. There was no patient converted to OT in the ETAA group and two patients suffered from persistence/recurrence in the follow-up.

Conclusion

ETAA is a safe and feasible surgical approach for patients with PTNMC.
A Two-Stage Optimization Approach for Healthcare Facility Location- Allocation Problems With Service Delivering Based on Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Salami Azadeh , Afshar-Nadjafi Behrouz , Amiri Maghsoud
Published: February 2023

Objective: This study assesses a multi-period capacitated maximal-covering location-allocation model for healthcare services, taking interservice referral as well as equity access into account.

Methods: A two-stage optimization strategy is used to formulate the model. In the first stage, facilities are located to maximize covered demand, and in the second stage, patients are allocated to capacitated facilities based on their radius of coverage over multiple time periods. The problem, which belongs to the NP-hard class of optimization problems, is solved using a linear mixed-integer programming (MILP) model.

Results: A numerical example is presented to evaluate the efficiency of the proposed model. In addition, to identify near-optimal solutions for large instances, a hybrid genetic-sequential quadratic programming approach (GA-SQP) is developed. To examine the performance and efficiency of the GA-SQP, we employed several randomly generated test instances of various sizes and compared them to those obtained using the exact method.

Conclusion: The proposed model has demonstrated an excellent ability in locating healthcare facilities and allocating health services while taking shortage and equity into account during each time period.
Reinforcement Learning-Based Control of Single-Track Two-Wheeled Robots in Narrow Terrain
Authors: Zheng Qingyuan , Tian Yu , Deng Yang , Zhu Xianjin , Chen Zhang , Liang Bing
Published: February 2023

The single-track two-wheeled (STTW) robot has the advantages of small size and flexibility, and it is suitable for traveling in narrow terrains of mountains and jungles. In this article, a reinforcement learning control method for STTW robots is proposed for driving fast in narrow terrain with limited visibility and line-of-sight occlusions. The proposed control scheme integrates path planning, trajectory tracking, and balancing control in a single framework. Based on this method, the state, action, and reward function are defined for narrow terrain passing tasks. At the same time, we design the actor network and the critic network structures and use the twin delayed deep deterministic policy gradient (TD3) to train these neural networks to construct a controller. Next, a simulation platform is formulated to test the performances of the proposed control method. The simulation results show that the obtained controller allows the STTW robot to effectively pass the training terrain, as well as the four test terrains. In addition, this article conducts a simulation comparison to prove the advantages of the integrated framework over traditional methods and the effectiveness of the reward function.
Influencing Factors on Bioavailability and Spatial Distribution of Soil Selenium in Dry Semi-Arid Area
Authors: Farooq Muhammad Raza , Zhang Zezhou , Yuan Linxi , Liu Xiaodong , Rehman Abdul , Bañuelos Gary S. , Yin Xuebin
Published: February 2023

The chemical transformation of selenium (Se) in the topsoil, especially when regarded as low to sufficient Se (with high bioavailability) in dry arid environments, has great importance in the alkaline soils to yield Se-enriched food regionally. The Se content in the highly alkaline soil of the northwest region of China has inordinate agriculture economic potential, and such soil distribution is likely to produce Se-enriched crops with distinct features. One such large area of Zhongwei was investigated for the distribution of soil Se and its bioavailability, and the influencing chemical factors of soil total Se (T-Se) and bioavailable Se (B-Se) in the agroecosystem. The results suggested that the T-Se in Zhongwei soils (mg/kg) ranged from 0.01 to 0.55 with a mean of 0.2 ± 0.08, which was lower than the average Se distribution of both China (0.29 mg/kg) and the world (0.40 mg/kg). However, the overall B-Se proportion (16%) in T-Se was adequately higher than in other Se-rich soils. Spatial distribution depicted that the T-Se was specified as deficient in 42.6% and sufficient in 55.5% of the studied area, while Zhongning county was prominent with a higher B-Se proportion (22%) in the T-Se of Zhongwei. The influencing factors, such as pH and organic matter (OM), showed significant association with B-Se, as suggested by Pearson’s correlation and multiple linear regression (MLR). Furthermore, the vertical distribution of T-Se and B-Se was higher in agricultural soil (AS) than in natural soil (NS) and can be justified in the context of their association with OM. Based on these results, the Se-fortified crops can be yielded by practices to improve corresponding influencing chemical factors of soil, especially in dry areas.
Analysis of Factors Affecting Vegetable Price Fluctuation: A Case Study of South Korea
Authors: Qiao Yiyang , Kang Minseong , Ahn Byeong-il
Published: February 2023

The fluctuation of vegetable prices in recent years underscores the need to identify contributing factors and develop effective policies. In order to examine the factors affecting the fluctuation of vegetable prices, this paper uses a structural model constructed by demand, supply, import, and export functions to decompose price variance, and also performs a numerical simulation to generalize the results. We studied the Korean vegetable market, and selected cabbage, radish, dried red pepper, garlic, and onion as research objects. The results indicates that variability of domestic production is the primary factor that influences price fluctuations in the Korean vegetable market. In contrast, our analysis revealed that demand, import, and export had a limited impact on price fluctuations in the Korean vegetable market, except for dried red pepper and onion.