bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance analysis of patch antenna for underwater wireless communication in seawater
Authors: Mohd Razali Siti Harliza , Ngah Razali , Yamada Yoshihide , Kamardin Kamilia
Published: June 2021

Underwater wireless communication in seawater is becoming more interesting and challenging in recent years. The development of antenna for underwater wireless communication in seawater at 900 MHz UHF range frequency is implemented by using patch antenna. In this paper, the antennas were designed using FEKO, an electromagnetic simulation software, and a suitable size for rectangular patch antenna for seawater application was developed to study the relevance between λ0 with W and L in seawater. The difference between the patches in free space and seawater was the L size, which was slightly bigger, about 0.9 mm, than free space size. But the gain for patch antenna in seawater was found at -2.51 dBi, lower than patch antenna in free space, which was 5.76 dBi due to the path loss in seawater. This shows that attenuation happened, and a better antenna will be design. The one that has better gain, which is around above 2 dBi in seawater, in order to get better performance antenna in seawater environment.
A queue theory in the cross-polarization of antenna in satellite communication
Authors: Mubarak Rio , Budiyanto Setiyo , Wulandari Putri , Rahayu Fajar , Adriansyah Andi , Alaydrus Mudrik
Published: June 2021

Satellite communication is a telecommunications technique that uses satellites as a connecting component, for example VSAT. In antenna installation, there is an important process which is called the cross-polarization. Cross-polarization is one process that cannot be released inside installation of VSAT antennas for satellite communication. Sometimes, in this process, a user queue will occur. Queuing theory explain the process is done and also calculate the other factors that are in the process. By knowing queuing theory to the cross-polarization, it will be easy to know the efficiency of queuing theory in the cross-polarization. Based on the characteristics of the cross-polarization, user can be known the queuing model that used and performance of the queuing system. The queuing model for the cross-polarization, using Kendall notation, M/M/1. Based on the analysis that has been done; by using 1 server the value of service level (ρ) is 0.67, using 2 servers = 0.33 and 3 servers = 0.22. The waiting time in the queue is longer if using 1 server which is 0.67 hours or 40 minutes. If a satellite operator uses 2 servers, waiting time in the queue is 25 minutes and 3 servers is 2.8 minutes which means that there is almost no waiting time in the queue.
An improved quasi-Newton equation on the quasi-Newton methods for unconstrained optimizations
Authors: Hassan Basim Abbas , Muangchoo Kanikar , Alfarag Fadhil , Ibrahim Abdulkarim Hassan , Bala Abubakar Auwal
Published: June 2021

Quasi-Newton methods are a class of numerical methods for solving the problem of unconstrained optimization. To improve the overall efficiency of resulting algorithms, we use the quasi-Newton methods which is interesting for quasi-Newton equation. In this manuscript, we present a modified BFGS update formula based on the new quasi-Newton equation, which give a new search direction for solving unconstrained optimizations proplems. We analyse the convergence rate of quasi-Newton method under some mild condition. Numerical experiments are conducted to demonstrate the efficiency of new methods using some test problems. The results indicates that the proposed method is competitive compared to the BFGS methods as it yielded fewer iteration and fewer function evaluations.
Le très curieux silence des Doxographes à propos de l'incompétence des auteurs des opinions chez Parménide
Authors: Cordero Nestor-Luis
Published: June 2021

Since the Goddess of Parmenides presents the two ways to explain the reality that must be faced by this who want to become a "man who knows", the truth and the opinions of mortals, she makes clear that the opinions (dóxai) are not "reliable". Later, when he describes in detail how the makers of opinions really are, the description is devastating: they are the people who are incapable of judging, who are astonished, who do not know how to use sensations, and who have a misguided intellect. Consequently, when they express their opinions, they present only a "misleading set of words. However, already from Aristotle onwards, this way of conceiving reality is attributed to Parmenides himself, and not to "the mortals". Theophrastus echoes this interpretation of Aristotle and, with him, the totality of the Doxographers. Obviously, in order to attribute the "opinions" to Parmenides himself, any reference to the incapacity of his authors is absent from the comments: no Doxographer mentions it.
A retórica do capítulo IX do tratado Da Interpretação
Authors: Buarque Luisa
Published: June 2021

This paper analyses the argumentative strategy of the ninth chapter of the treatise De Interpretatione in the light of Aristotle's Rhetoric. The subject of the ‘future events’ developed in chapter IX brings up themes that are proper not only to philosophical thought, but also to political practice, forensic rhetoric, deliberative rhetoric and even tragic poetry. In this paper, it is argued that Aristotle uses the dialectical method and certain rhetorical techniques to touch the various discussions related to the subject addressed. He erects a hypothetical adversary and a thesis to refute, condensing some positions that were probably scattered in the most diverse textual and oratory sources of his time. Moreover, he builds the thesis of his hypothetical opponent from premises established in previous chapters of his own treatise. With this, he can simulate the defense of his opponent's thesis before demolishing it. Thus, according to the hypothesis defended here, the philosopher does not in fact commit himself to the arguments presented between 18a35 and 18b25, but only simulates the defense of the reasoning which he will soon refute. In addition, it is also concluded that chapter IX is part of the argumentative chain of the treatise, having as a peculiar characteristic, not the theme or nature of the arguments exposed, but the rhetorical method it employs.
Apontamentos sobre diferentes representações do imigrante judeu em Hacer la América e na Trilogía de Entre Ríos
Authors: Prado Fernanda Palo
Published: June 2021

Esta apresentação pretende discutir duas representações da figura do imigrante judeu: uma delas é a presente na obra Hacer la América (1984) de Pedro Orgambide e a outra é a presente na Trilogía de Entre Ríos (2006) de Perla Suez, principalmente por meio das relações estabelecidas com a novela El arresto. As questões que mobilizam essa proposta são: como cada um desses textos constrói sua visão das colônias judaicas no litoral argentino? Como cada um deles se relaciona com a imagem do gaucho judío, construída por Gerchunoff? Como cada um explora as questões da estrangeiridade e da memória? Como se dá a ida à cidade desses personagens gauchos e judeus? E, por fim, como estão narradas as tensões e a violência relacionadas ao grupo de imigrantes judeus no início do século XX na Argentina?
Health-Related Quality of Life and Angina in Fractional Flow Reserve- Versus Angiography-Guided Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting: FARGO Trial (Fractional Flow Reserve Versus Angiography Randomization for Graft Optimization)
Authors: Thuesen Anne Langhoff , Riber Lars Peter , Veien Karsten Tange , Christiansen Evald Høj , Jensen Svend Eggert , Modrau Ivy , Andreasen Jan Jesper , Borregaard Britt , Junker Anders , Mortensen Poul Erik , Jensen Lisette Okkels
Published: June 2021

Background:

In coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), the use of fractional flow reserve (FFR) is insufficiently investigated. Stenosis assessment usually relies on visual estimates of lesion severity. This study evaluated health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and angina after FFR- versus angiography-guided CABG.

Methods:

One hundred patients referred for CABG were randomized to FFR- or angiography-guided CABG. In the FFR group, lesions with FFR>0.80 were deferred, while the surgeon was blinded to the FFR values in the angiography group. Before and 6 months after CABG, HRQoL was assessed by the health state classifier EQ-5D of the EuroQoL 5-level instrument and angina status based on the Canadian Cardiovascular Society classification system were registered.

Results:

Six-month angiography included FFR evaluations of deferred lesions. In total, completed EQ-5D of the EuroQoL 5-level instrument questionnaires were available in 86 patients (43 in the FFR versus 43 in the angiography-guided group). HRQoL was significantly improved and angina significantly decreased from baseline to 6 months after CABG with no difference between the randomization groups. Graft failure rates and clinical outcomes were similar in both groups. Patients with graft failure or FFR<0.80 of the previous deferred lesions had significantly lower visual analogue scale scores (78.7±14.2 versus 86.8±14.7,
P
=0.004) and more angina compared with patients without graft failure or FFR≥0.80 at 6-month follow-up.

Conclusions:

FFR- versus angiography-guided CABG demonstrated similar improvements in HRQoL and angina 6 months after CABG. Graft failure or low FFR in deferred lesions were associated with low HRQoL and angina.

Registration:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT02477371
Invoking Humans in Roman-Era Oaths: Emotional Relations and Divine Ambiguity
Authors: Blidstein Moshe
Published: June 2021

This article examines Roman-era oaths invoking nondeities, especially persons. It argues that rather than invoking quasi-deities or persons to be punished by the gods in case of perjury, as usually understood in the past, these invocations could have two concurrent functions: honoring the invoked persons and affirming a statement. Though such invocations had limited legal power, they were commonly practiced throughout the period, as demonstrated in various textual genres, including Latin poetry and rhetoric, texts of the Second Sophistic, Jewish rabbinical writings, and 5th-century Christian sermons. Furthermore, nondivine invocations were frequently combined and mingled with divine invocations, with only theologically inclined authors attempting to define them clearly as a separate category. This interpretation has significance for understanding some equivocal oaths, such as the oath by the emperor, as well as for our perception of oaths in general as a speech act with functions going beyond the affirmation of a statement.
Recognizing Religious Minority Rights
Authors: Pastor Eugenia Relaño
Published: June 2021

The European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) does not contain any provision on minorities, and neither has the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) considered the notion of minority rights when dealing with claims involving religious minorities. This contribution aims to show how the Court addresses the rights of religious minorities through the concepts of ‘religious diversity’ and ‘pluralism’. In order to overcome the historical tension between individual rights versus group rights, the author offers a theoretical typology on religious minority rights that combines rights- holders with individual and group interests and takes into consideration UN human rights texts on minorities and the freedom of religion, as well as the ECHR and the Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities. By applying the three categories of the above- mentioned typology— individual differentiated rights to members of minorities, group- differentiated rights, and special interest group rights— to the Court’s jurisprudence on members of religious minorities and religious communities, the author concludes that while the ECtHR has systematically reiterated its commitment to pluralism, it has partly failed to grant protection to religious diversity, particularly, when ‘uncomfortable’ religious diversities are the stake.
North Macedonia’s Language Law of 2018
Authors: Lantschner Emma
Published: June 2021

In 2019, a new law regulating the use of languages other than Macedonian entered into force in North Macedonia. Language issues have always been a hot topic in North Macedonia and one capable of stirring controversial debate, especially between the Albanian- and the Macedonian- speaking population. This is also the case for this most recent piece of legislation. The present article discusses initially the constitutional and political background to the adoption of the law. It then analyses some of the most disputed aspects of the law. Most of them relate to the broader issues of democracy and rule of law as well as the balance with other human rights.
First Record of Psorospermium sp. (Class: Mesomycetozoea) in Northern Clearwater crayfish Faxonius propinquus Girard 1852 (Decapoda: Cambaridae) from Michigan, U.S.A.
Authors: ANAYA CHRISTINA
Published: June 2021

Psorospermium cf. haeckeli Hilgendorf 1883 is a unicellular, eukaryotic protozoan within the class Mesomycetozoea, phylogenetically situated near the animal-fungal divergence(Cavalier-Smith 1998; Ragan et al. 1998). Although only one species has been identified, there have been four morphotypes described in 17 species of crayfish from the Holarctic, Neotropical, and Australasian regions (Herbert 1987; Henttonen et al. 1992, 1994; Rug & Vogt 1994). However, molecular analyses of the internal transcribed spacer DNA suggest morphotypes may represent distinct species (Bangyeekhun et al. 2001).
On the taxonomic status of Holothuria (Holothuria) tubulosa (s.s.) from the Algerian coast with the description of a new Mediterranean species, Holothuria (Holothuria) algeriensis n. sp. (Echinodermata: Holothuroidea: Holothuriidae)
Authors: MEZALI KARIM , THANDAR AHMED S. , KHODJA IHCENE
Published: June 2021

In this study we redescribe the taxonomy of some holothuriid species collected from different localities of the Algerian coastal waters. Morphological (anatomical and endoskeletal) and previous molecular studies show the presence of two distinct morphotypes of Holothuria (Holothuria) tubulosa “A” & “B”. Morphotype “A” corresponds to the classical Holothuria (Holothuria) tubulosa Gmelin 1791, described by Koehler (1921) and hereafter referred to as H. (H.) tubulosa (s.s.), while morphotype “B”, we believe, represents a new species, herein named H. (Holothuria) algeriensis n. sp. with characteristics significantly different from those of Holothuria (H.) tubulosa (s.s.). Both morphology and statistical analysis (Linear Discriminant Analysis) confirm significant differences between these two morphotypes. To visualize these differences, measurements made on ossicles of Holothuria (H.) tubulosa (s.s.) and Holothuria (H.) algeriensis n. sp. were compared with other species present in our collections, including the north-eastern Atlantic and Mediterranean Holothuria (Roweothuria) arguinensis Koehler & Vaney, 1906, recently recorded from Algerian waters, the Mediterranean Holothuria (Roweothuria) poli Delle Chiaje, 1824 and Holothuria (Holothuria) stellati Delle Chiaje, 1824. We conclude that the two morphotypes of H. (H.) tubulosa are significantly different to warrant the recognition of a new species, H. (H.) algeriensis n. sp. and the linear discriminant analysis (LDA) of the five species demonstrate this.
Redescription of a forgotten nudibranch Miamira striata (Eliot, 1904) and review of the taxonomic status of the genus Orodoris (Nudibranchia: Chromodorididae: Miamirinae)
Authors: TIBIRIÇÁ YARA , GOSLINER TERRENCE M. , BONOMO LYNN J. , CERVERA JUAN LUCAS
Published: June 2021

The genus Orodoris Bergh, 1875 is a small genus that together with Miamira Bergh, 1875, was considered as a junior synonym of Ceratosoma A. Adams & Reeve, 1850. This decision was based on a morphological phylogenetic study conducted in 1999 that recovered the monophyly of the Ceratosoma. However, in 2012, molecular evidences led to the resurrection of Miamira, while Orodoris was retained as a junior synonym of Miamira with no further details. Here we revise the status of the genus Orodoris in light of the rediscovery of M. striata (syn. Orodoris striata Eliot, 1904). Our phylogenetic analysis revealed a close sister relationship between Miamira striata and Miamira miamirana Bergh, 1875 which nested within the Miamira clade. Therefore, to retain the monophyly of Miamira, the genus Orodoris should be maintained as a junior synonym of the former. This study proposes a neotype for M. striata and underscores the importance of reviewing historical taxonomic changes and investigating ancient descriptions prior to describing new taxa. Our study also confirms that Miamira magnifica Eliot, 1910 from the Indian Ocean and Miamira flavicostata Baba, 1940 from the Pacific Ocean represent two distinct, sister species.
Bathyscidius mikati (Udržal, 1995), a new combination from the genus Bathyscia Schiødte, 1848 (Insecta, Coleoptera, Leiodidae, Cholevinae, Leptodirini)
Authors: ČEPLÍK DÁVID , LAKOTA JÁN , ČEPLÍK JAROSLAV
Published: June 2021

The study of the type material as well as the additional specimens collected in the Rumija Mts., southeastern Montenegro revealed that Bathyscia mikati Udržal, 1995 belongs to the genus Bathyscidius Jeannel, 1910. New combination, Bathyscidius mikati (Udržal, 1995) comb. nov. is established. The species redescription, morphological comparison with related species, revised distribution, the map and the catalogue for the genus are provided.
A Study on E-Commerce Aspects Impacting Consumer’s Online Shopping Behavior in United Arab Emirates
Authors: Dubey Anil Roy , Balaji B.
Published: June 2021

In the digital world, it’s somewhat difficult to manage the expectations of the present customers especially E-Commerce Shoppers who are often challenging and pushed to keep up with what is anticipated to them. Numerous E-shoppers are under pressure to locate and approach to convey
an offline in-store ride to the online store ride of higher level interaction with their customers. Experts have cited that all kinds of powers are clearly in the fingers of customers and that their never ever change their behaviors, this leads to force them to approach various online shops
portals to adapt. Online shopping comes to be greatly empowered, the E-shoppers expectations from retailers to vendors and are developing a rapid shift in their behavior with an emphasis on pace and convenience. Shopper’s interest spans have become shorter, with 50 percent of shoppers
leaping from one retailer website to another, earlier they making an enduring purchase. In addition, greater than eighty percent of shoppers are taking their shopping experience in both online as well as offline. A retailer’s internet site is one of the key places where customers go
to search about their dream product’s records and pricing. The demand for the quick shipping of products purchased and handy services, such as click on online and collect in store, as properly as seamless returns have led to groups developing easy, no-fuss fee options. Research indicates
that primary shops will continue to offer higher approaches to gather products purchased online from their stores, as a way of appealing to customers and supplying larger convenience. Based on these prevailing conditions a study was performed on E-Commerce components impacting consumer’s
online purchasing conducted on the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Major portions of primary data collection were done via the questionnaires method and by means of emails in two predominant cities of UAE (Sharjah, Abu Dhabi). Cost, time saving (shipping), maintaining customers private details
in a secured manner and comfort while do shopping were recognized as vital elements and this leads to assured buying conduct of online shopping. The www is to remodel in the region of populace where communal networked group impact and leads to online shopping.
Optimization Approach of Ventilation Systems in Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning for an Underground Building’s Transport
Authors: Jacob Jen , Senanayake Rohan
Published: June 2021

This investigated research work and the final decisions were arrived from the specific dynamical analysis of three different new and innovate underground interchange buildings planned and executing currently at Doha and Al khor situated at Qatar is presented. A supplementary study was
carried out for an identical two-tier swapping building technique and the approach and outcome have been reported in this research article. The examination of dissimilar ventilation and air-conditioning stratagems has been done initially. The prime objective is to find the efficient and effectual
design to invent and so as to uphold to get an attention of pollutant contaminant and thermal temperatures under the modelled and designed values, by investing very low cost even in the operating level. The systematic CFD modelling of dissimilar stratagems was done and the numerical and simulated
results are shown in this work. The same has again merged with a dynamical Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) coding to reach the optimum result. This was done with the coordination with buses circulation and with the sources of heat and disbursed pollution. The concluding optimal result succeeded
is grounded on a substantial partitioning which is connecting between the island area and berth locale. The efficacy of the multifarious design strategies and probable predictions are presented in the conclusions. In order to manage a fire crisis situation, it is primary to check about the
planning of the fire and flames struggling measures which comprises of automatic freshening like ventilation along with arrangements of curtains, and explain the smoke sectors which would be able to manage with a fire crisis condition. The main results accessible are temperature fields, concentration
of smoke and visibility.
Fuzzy C-Means (FCM) Clustering with Probabilistic Neural Network (PNN) Model for Detection and Classification of Rice Plant Diseases in Internet of Things-Cloud Centric Precision Agriculture
Authors: Sindhu P. , Indirani G. , Dinadayalan P.
Published: June 2021

Presently, the field of Internet of Things (loT) has been employed in diverse applications like Smart Grid, Surveillance, Smart homes, and so on. Precision Agriculture is a concept of farm management which makes use of IoT and networking concepts to improve the crop health. Recognition
of diseases from the plant images is an active research topic which makes use of machine learning (ML) approaches. This paper introduces an effective rice plant disease identification and classification model to identify the type of disease from infected rice plants. The proposed method aims
to detect three rice plant diseases such as Bacterial leaf blight, Brown spot, and Leaf smut. The proposed method involves a set of different processes namely image acquisition, preprocessing, segmentation, feature extraction and classification. At the earlier stage, IoT devices will be used
to capture the image and stores it with a cloud server, which executes the classification process. In the cloud, the rice plant images under preprocessing to improvise the quality of the image. Then, fuzzy c-means (FCM) clustering method is utilized for the segmentation of disease portion
from a leaf image. Afterwards, feature extraction takes place under three kinds namely color, shape, and texture. Finally, probabilistic neural network (PNN) is applied for multi-class classification. A detailed experimental analysis ensured the effective classification performance of the
proposed method under all the test images applied.
Contemporary Human Activity Recognition Based Predictions by Sensors Using Random Forest Classifier
Authors: Anand Sujatha Jamuna , Magesh S. , Arockiamary I.
Published: June 2021

The task of recognizing human activities directs extensive divergence of various functions and applications. Despite analysing the intricate activity it endures demanding requirements in contemporary field of research. A subject performs a definite task at a particular time by determining
the activity by using sensor data. In this research task we appraise a unique way by using data with supervised learning techniques by placing sensors on the human body by contingent upon classification process at different stages. The State-of-art machine learning approach random forests
are widely discussed in terms of covering practical and theoretical aspects of body sensing. The eventual target is the superior rate of accurate predictions effecting Human Activity Recognition further effective for behavioural monitoring, medical and healthcare sectors. Classification processes
are deployed for pairs of activities that are distracted often and this work attempts to analyse the essential sensors for the improved prediction. The results shows the best accuracy scores and the remaining of our findings we expose the outline, exhibiting the degree of distraction between
features of ranking and human activities which renders back to sensor ranking.
Microaggression and Implicit Bias
Authors: Turner Jacquelyn , Higgins Robert , Childs Ed
Published: June 2021

Microaggression is an unconscious statement or action regarded as discrimination against a marginalized community. Microaggression coupled with implicit bias (unconscious prejudice in favor or against one person or group) can be psychologically damaging to the targeted community. The difficulty with microaggressions and implicit biases is that they are subjective and unconscious, and the offender may not view them as damaging. Microaggressions and implicit biases can affect both the patient and the physician. Whether it is the patient that is the victim of these phenomena or the physician, the goal of quality patient care is adversely affected. When patients are victims, bias can also lead to systematic dismissal of symptoms, inferior medical services, and less aggressive preventive care. Physicians who are victims of such phenomena may deal with the repeated trauma of receiving microaggressions and biases from patients and/or colleagues which may cause mental distress and ultimately functional impairment affecting work performance. In either case, repeated direct and indirect exposure of microaggressions and biases through encounters within and outside the workforce are cumulative leading to lasting internalized damage. Awareness that implicit biases and microaggressions exist and recognition that these phenomena are problematic are the first steps toward fostering a more equitable and inclusive culture. As a society and especially as health care workers, we must become increasingly culturally aware and sensitive of all communities for the ultimate good of patient care.
COVID-19: Seroprevalence and Vaccine Responses in UK Dental Care Professionals
Authors: Shields A.M. , Faustini S.E. , Kristunas C.A. , Cook A.M. , Backhouse C. , Dunbar L. , Ebanks D. , Emmanuel B. , Crouch E. , Kröger A. , Hirschfeld J. , Sharma P. , Jaffery R. , Nowak S. , Gee S. , Drayson M.T. , Richter A.G. , Dietrich T. , Chapple I.L.C.
Published: June 2021

Dental care professionals (DCPs) are thought to be at enhanced risk of occupational exposure to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). However, robust data to support this from large-scale seroepidemiological studies are lacking. We report a longitudinal seroprevalence analysis of antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein, with baseline sampling prior to large-scale practice reopening in July 2020 and follow-up postimplementation of new public health guidance on infection prevention control (IPC) and enhanced personal protective equipment (PPE). In total, 1,507 West Midlands DCPs were recruited into this study in June 2020. Baseline seroprevalence was determined using a combined IgGAM enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and the cohort followed longitudinally for 6 mo until January/February 2021 through the second wave of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic in the United Kingdom and vaccination commencement. Baseline seroprevalence was 16.3%, compared to estimates in the regional population of 6% to 7%. Seropositivity was retained in over 70% of participants at 3- and 6-mo follow-up and conferred a 75% reduced risk of infection. Nonwhite ethnicity and living in areas of greater deprivation were associated with increased baseline seroprevalence. During follow-up, no polymerase chain reaction–proven infections occurred in individuals with a baseline anti–SARS-CoV-2 IgG level greater than 147.6 IU/ml with respect to the World Health Organization international standard 20-136. After vaccination, antibody responses were more rapid and of higher magnitude in those individuals who were seropositive at baseline. Natural infection with SARS-CoV-2 prior to enhanced PPE was significantly higher in DCPs than the regional population. Natural infection leads to a serological response that remains detectable in over 70% of individuals 6 mo after initial sampling and 9 mo from the peak of the first wave of the pandemic. This response is associated with protection from future infection. Even if serological responses wane, a single dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech 162b vaccine is associated with an antibody response indicative of immunological memory.
Does the Simon Effect Interfere with the Synergy Between Perception and Action?
Authors: Klostermann André
Published: June 2021

Research suggests that – particularly – the execution of precision-demanding far-aiming tasks necessitates an optimal coupling between perception and action. In this regard, the duration of the last fixation before initiating movement – i.e., the Quiet Eye (QE) – has been functionally related to subsequent motor performance. In the current study, we investigated potential mechanisms of QE by applying the Simon paradigm – i.e., cognitive interferences evoked by stimulus-effect incompatibilities over response selection. To this end, we had participants throw balls as precisely as possible, either with their left or right hand (hands condition, HC) or at left or right targets (targets condition, TC), respectively. Via monaural auditory stimuli, participants received information about the hand side and the target side, respectively, either with compatible (i.e., congruent stimulus-effect side) or incompatible (i.e., incongruent stimulus-effect side) stimulus-effect mappings. Results showed that participants reacted slower and showed later first fixation onsets at the target in incompatible vs. compatible trials, thus, replicating and extending the classical Simon effect. Crucially, in the HC, there were earlier QE onsets and longer QE durations in incompatible (vs. compatible) trials, suggesting an inhibition of cognitive interferences over response selection to preserve motor performance. These findings are in line with attentional explanations of QE, suggesting optimized attentional control with efficient management of limited cognitive resources (optimal-attentional-control explanation) or with the inhibition of alternative response parametrization (inhibition explanation).
Building epidemic models for living populations and computer networks
Authors: Kondakci Suleyman , Kondakci Dilek Doruk
Published: June 2021

Accurate modeling of viral outbreaks in living populations and computer networks is a prominent research field. Many researchers are in search for simple and realistic models to manage preventive resources and implement effective measures against hazardous circumstances. The ongoing Covid-19 pandemic has revealed the fact about deficiencies in health resource planning of some countries having relatively high case count and death toll. A unique epidemic model incorporating stochastic processes and queuing theory is presented, which was evaluated by computer simulation using pre-processed data obtained from an urban clinic providing family health services. Covid-19 data from a local corona-center was used as the initial model parameters (e.g. [Formula: see text], infection rate, local population size, number of contacts with infected individuals, and recovery rate). A long–run trend analysis for 1 year was simulated. The results fit well to the current case data of the sample corona center. Effective preventive and reactive resource planning basically depends on accurately designed models, tools, and techniques needed for the prediction of feature threats, risks, and mitigation costs. In order to sufficiently analyze the transmission and recovery dynamics of epidemics it is important to choose concise mathematical models. Hence, a unique stochastic modeling approach tied to queueing theory and computer simulation has been chosen. The methods used here can also serve as a guidance for accurate modeling and classification of stages (or compartments) of epidemics in general.
New spatialities of work in the city
Authors: Reuschke Darja , Ekinsmyth Carol
Published: June 2021

This introduction discusses the objectives and concepts underlying the Special Issue on the new spatialities of work in the city. It highlights the urban impact of both the changing spatiotemporal working patterns and the increased diversity of workspaces that have resulted from post-industrial restructuring, globalisation, labour market flexibilisation and digitisation. Even pre-COVID-19, when the research in this Special Issue was undertaken, this impact on the urban structure and the social fabric of cities was significant, but it had remained underexplored. Here, therefore, we question models of work and commuting that continue to assume the spatially ‘fixed’ workplace, and explore how new understandings of workspace and multi-locality, developed in this Special Issue, can inform future research. This, we argue, is more important than ever as we come to understand the medium- and long-term impacts of pandemic-altered work practices in cities. We further argue that the spatialities of work need to be connected with research on health, job quality and wellbeing in cities – such as, for example, on the risks that COVID-19 has exposed for driving and mobile work.
Optimizing Consistency and Coverage in Configurational Causal Modeling
Authors: Baumgartner Michael , Ambühl Mathias
Published: June 2021

Consistency and coverage are two core parameters of model fit used by configurational comparative methods (CCMs) of causal inference. Among causal models that perform equally well in other respects (e.g., robustness or compliance with background theories), those with higher consistency and coverage are typically considered preferable. Finding the optimally obtainable consistency and coverage scores for data [Formula: see text], so far, is a matter of repeatedly applying CCMs to [Formula: see text] while varying threshold settings. This article introduces a procedure called ConCovOpt that calculates, prior to actual CCM analyses, the consistency and coverage scores that can optimally be obtained by models inferred from [Formula: see text]. Moreover, we show how models reaching optimal scores can be methodically built in case of crisp-set and multi-value data. ConCovOpt is a tool, not for blindly maximizing model fit, but for rendering transparent the space of viable models at optimal fit scores in order to facilitate informed model selection—which, as we demonstrate by various data examples, may have substantive modeling implications.
Epidemiology of colorectal cancer in Barbados: A short report
Authors: Griffith Sahle , Padmore Greg , Moore Sierra , Walkes Keisha , Gohar Abdelaziz A , Cawich Shamir O
Published: June 2021

Barbados is a Caribbean island with a high incidence of colorectal cancer. This study collected epidemiologic data from Barbadian patients with colorectal cancer. There was an opportunity for targeted screening in patients actively enrolled in clinics for management of chronic diseases, accounting for 72% of cases. We also identified areas of high incidence where resources should be directed in a screening programme.
Going it Alone: The Adverse Effect of Executive Term Limits on Bargaining
Authors: Cockerham Alexandra G.
Published: June 2021

It is widely accepted that executive term limits provide a check on executive power. I challenge this assumption by arguing that executive term limits pose an obstacle to inter-branch bargaining because they both limit tenure potential and force an executive from office precisely when she is most prone to bargain. While previous research has assumed that an executive’s tenure potential remains constant throughout his time in office, I argue that the tenure potential of a term-limited executive varies with time left in office. The perfect correlation between time served (experience) and maximum remaining time in office (tenure potential) among U.S. presidents precludes empirical analysis about the effects of tenure potential and experience. Accordingly, I turn to the American states for analysis, and find strong empirical support for my theory.
Effect of Augmentative Technology on Communication and Quality of Life After Tracheostomy or Total Laryngectomy
Authors: Haring Catherine T. , Farlow Janice L. , Leginza Marie , Vance Kaitlin , Blakely Anna , Lyden Teresa , Hoesli Rebecca C. , Neal Molly E. Heft , Brenner Michael J. , Hogikyan Norman D. , Morrison Robert J. , Casper Keith A.
Published: June 2021

Objective

Surgical procedures that render patients acutely aphonic can cause them to experience significant anxiety and distress. We queried patient perceptions after tracheostomy or laryngectomy and investigated whether introducing augmentative technology was associated with improvement in patient‐reported outcomes.

Methods

Participants included hospitalized patients who acutely lost the ability to speak due to tracheostomy or total laryngectomy from April 2018 to December 2019. We distributed questions regarding the patient communication experience and relevant questions from the validated V‐RQOL questionnaire (Voice‐Related Quality of Life). Patients were offered a tablet with the electronic communication application Verbally. Pre‐ and postintervention groups were compared with chi‐square analyses.

Results

Surveys were completed by 35 patients (n = 18, preintervention; n = 17, postintervention). Prior to using augmentative technology, 89% of patients who were aphonic reported difficulty communicating, specifically noting breathing or suctioning (56%), treatment and discharge plans (78%), or immediate needs, such as pain and using the bathroom (39%). Communication difficulties caused anxiety (55%), depression (44%), or frustration (62%), and 92% of patients were interested in using an electronic communication device. Patients reported less trouble communicating after the intervention versus before (53% vs 89%, P =. 03), including less difficulty communicating about treatment or discharge plans (35% vs 78%, P <. 01). V‐RQOL scores were unchanged.

Discussion

Acute loss of phonation arising from surgery can be highly distressing for patients, and use of augmentative technology may alleviate some of these challenges by improving communication. Further studies are needed to identify what additional strategies may improve overall well‐being.

Implications for Practice

Electronic communication devices may benefit patients with acute aphonia.
A Simple Screw-Type Wrap-Around Retainer
Authors: Korath Akin Kulangara , Jude Charles , Hattarki Rohan
Published: June 2021

Retainers are used after orthodontic correction to maintain the teeth in the new position while allowing remodeling of the surrounding tissue. Begg’s wrap-around retainers are the most commonly used retainers after orthodontic correction for providing stability to the achieved orthodontic correction.

It is not always possible for the patient to visit the orthodontist periodically, especially during situations like pandemics. This new design of Begg’sretainer has been modified with the addition of expansion screws for self-activation, thus reducing the need for the patient to visit the orthodontist for activation of the retainer.
A Simple Technique to Fabricate Bite Turbos
Authors: Alsheikho Hoger Omran , Jomah Doaa
Published: June 2021

Bite turbos are a relatively new but widespread fabrication used in a variety of orthodontic cases. Bite turbos placed on lingual surfaces of upper incisors help disclude the posterior teeth and open the bite. This report describes a simple, effective, and economical technique to fabricate resin composite bite turbos. This method does not require laboratory procedures and can be manufactured using materials that are usually available in a regular dental practice.
Investigation of sedimentary records of Hurricane Irma in sinkholes, Big Pine Key, Florida
Authors: Wang Youzhu , Van Beynen Philip , Wang Ping , Brooks Gregg , Herbert Gregory , Tykot Robert
Published: June 2021

Few paleotempestological studies have focused on coastal sinkholes, a common feature in Florida, which can receive and preserve storm overwash sediments. The major goal of this research is to improve our understanding of the characteristic signatures of storm sediments in sinkholes thereby determining reliability of these environments as proxies for hurricanes. Hurricane Irma as a category 5 storm provides an excellent case study for characterizing storm deposits in sinkholes on Big Pine Key. We cored at four sinkholes along a 350 m transect normal to the shoreline. Core sediments were characterized using physical description, short-lived radioisotope dating, sediment grain size analysis, loss-on-ignition, microfossil analysis, and x-ray fluorescence elemental analysis. We found that Irma deposits had higher abundances of marine foraminifera, less total organic matter and elevated Si/Al and Ca/Ti ratios, compared to pre- or post-Irma sediments. In addition, there was a thinning of the storm sediments along the inland transect. Consequently, we propose that sinkholes, particularly those that are closer to the shoreline, can provide reliable sites for paleotempestology studies.
The Simple Views of Reading and Writing: Frameworks for Interpretation of the Woodcock–Johnson IV
Authors: Parkin Jason R.
Published: June 2021

The simple views of reading (SVRs) and writing (SVWs) reflect useful frameworks for the psychoeducational evaluation of literacy difficulties. They describe reading comprehension and written expression as the outcome of oral language, decoding, and transcription skills. Prior research has demonstrated that these components explain the vast majority of variance in comprehension and written expression. However, subtests’ specific task demands can influence the relationships among these components within the models. As a result, practitioners should know the degree to which various test batteries operationalize these frameworks. Using correlations from school-age participants provided in the technical manual, these analyses investigated the SVR and SVW within the Woodcock–Johnson IV battery through structural equation modeling. Results suggest that the battery’s measures conform to many of the expectations stemming from the SVR/SVW. However, its comprehension and written expression measures appear less language-influenced and more affected by decoding/spelling. Implications for psychoeducational practice are discussed.
Hepatic oxidative damage and Nrf2 pathway protein changes in rats following long-term manganese exposure
Authors: Wang Xia , Shen Xubo , Chen Lei , Yu Qin , Xiong Shimin , Tian Kunming , Xie Yan , Zeng Rong , Zhou Yuanzhong
Published: June 2021

This study investigated hepatic oxidative damage in rats following long-term manganese (Mn) exposure and clarified the underlying mechanisms. Forty-eight rats (SPF, male) were randomly assigned to receive low (10 mg/kg, n = 16) or high doses of Mn (50 mg/kg, n = 16) or sterilized distilled water (control group, n = 16). Rats were euthanized after 12 months, and liver Mn levels and histopathological changes were determined. Serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels and liver malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX), nuclear factor E2-related factor-2 (Nrf2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), and NAD(P)H quinine oxidoreductase-1 (NQO1) levels were also determined. The Mn concentration and relative liver weights were significantly higher in the high-dose Mn group than in the control and low-dose Mn exposure groups. Low-dose Mn exposure resulted in mild expansion of hepatic sinuses and intact nuclei, whereas high-dose exposure led to pathological alterations in hepatocytes. High-dose Mn treatment significantly increased AST, ALT, and MDA activities and decreased GSH-PX activity. Additionally, liver Nrf2, HO-1, and NQO1 protein expression were markedly reduced by Mn exposure. Under the study conditions, long-term low-dose Mn exposure resulted in slight pathological changes in liver structure, but high-dose Mn exposure affected both liver structure and function, which might be related to the inhibition of Nrf2 expression, suppression of the transcription of its underlying antioxidant genes, and down regulation of the corresponding proteins. Consequently, the antioxidant capacity in the rat liver was weakened.
Phenolated alginate-collagen hydrogel induced chondrogenic capacity of human amniotic mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Saghati Sepideh , Rahbarghazi Reza , Baradar Khoshfetrat Ali , Moharamzadeh Keyvan , Tayefi Nasrabadi Hamid , Roshangar Leila
Published: June 2021

Horseradish peroxidase (HRP)-catalyzed hydrogels are considered to be an important platform for tissue engineering applications. In this study, we investigated the chondrogenic capacity of phenolated (1.2%) alginate-(0.5%) collagen hydrogel on human amniotic mesenchymal stem cells after 21 days. Using NMR, FTIR analyses, and SEM imaging, we studied the phenolation and structure of alginate-collagen hydrogel. For physicochemical evaluations, gelation time, mechanical properties, swelling, and degradation rate were assessed. The survival rate was monitored using the MTT assay and DAPI staining. Western blotting was performed to measure the chondrogenic differentiation of cells. NMR showed successful phenolation of the alginate-collagen hydrogel. FTIR exhibited the interaction between the functional groups of collagen with phenolated alginate. SEM showed the existence of collagen microfibrils in the alginate-collagen hydrogel. Compared to phenolated alginate, the addition of collagen increased hydrogel elasticity by 10%. Both swelling rate and biodegradability were reduced in the presence of collagen. We noted an increased survival rate in phenolated alginate-collagen compared to the control cells (p < 0.05). Western blotting revealed the increase of chondrocyte-associated proteins such as SOX9 and COL2A1 in phenolated-alginate-collagen hydrogels after 21 days. These data showed that phenolated alginate-collagen hydrogel is an appropriate 3 D substrate to induce chondrogenic capacity of human mesenchymal stem cells.