bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lung ultrasound for the diagnosis of cystic fibrosis pulmonary exacerbation
Authors: Hassanzad Maryam , Kiani Arda , Abedini Atefeh , Ghaffaripour Hoseinali , Emami Habib , Alizadeh Niloufar , Zoghi Ghazal , Hashemi Saeed , Velayati Ali Akbar
Published: November 2021

Background

High-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) is the gold standard for the evaluation of cystic fibrosis (CF) lung disease; however, lung ultrasound (LUS) is being increasingly used for the assessment of lung in these patients due to its lower cost, availability, and lack of irradiation. We aimed to determine the diagnostic performance of LUS for the evaluation of CF pulmonary exacerbation.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included patients with CF pulmonary exacerbation admitted to Masih Daneshvari Hospital, Tehran, Iran, from March 21, 2020 to March 20, 2021. Age, gender, and body mass index (BMI) of the patients were recorded. All patients underwent chest X-ray (CXR), HRCT, and LUS on admission. Pleural thickening, atelectasis, air bronchogram, B-line, and consolidation were noted in LUS and then compared with the corresponding findings in CXR and HRCT. Taking HRCT findings as reference, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and diagnostic accuracy (DA) of LUS and CXR for the detection of each pulmonary abnormality were determined.

Results

Of the 30 patients included in this study, with a mean age of 19.62 ± 5.53 years, 14 (46.7%) were male. Of the 15 patients aged 2–20 years, BMI was below the 5th percentile in 10 (66.7%), within the 5–10 percentiles in 1 (6.7%), 10–25 percentiles in 3 (20%), and 25-50 percentiles in 1 (6.7%). The mean BMI for 15 patients > 20 years was 18.03 ± 2.53 kg/m2. LUS had better diagnostic performance compared to CXR for the detection of air bronchogram, consolidation, and pleural thickening (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve [AUROC]: 0.966 vs. 0.483, 0.900 vs. 0.575, and 0.656 vs. 0.531, respectively). Also, LUS was 100% and 96.7% specific for the diagnosis of pleural effusion and atelectasis, respectively.

Conclusions

LUS appears to be superior to CXR and comparable with HRCT for the evaluation of CF pulmonary exacerbation, especially in terms of air bronchogram and consolidation detection. LUS can be used to lengthen the HRCT evaluation intervals in this regard or utilized along with HRCT for better evaluation of CF pulmonary exacerbation.
Analysis of salivary proteomic biomarkers for the surveillance of changes in high-risk status of early childhood caries
Authors: Zhou Xinzhu , Li Haozhe , Zhu Ce , Yuan Chao , Meng Chunhua , Feng Shulan , Sun Xiangyu , Zheng Shuguo
Published: November 2021

Background

Early childhood caries is an urgent public health concern. The aim of this study was to investigate salivary proteomic biomarkers for the surveillance of changes in the high-risk status of early childhood caries. The process involves the screening of specific salivary peptides that were differentially expressed only under dynamic changes in individual caries status.

Methods

Stimulated whole saliva samples were collected from 28 kindergarten children aged 3–4 years in Beijing at baseline and 3 months and 6 months after baseline. A total of 68 samples were collected. In terms of their caries status and progress during the observation period, participants were divided into 3 groups; 7 in the non-caries recurrence group, 6 in the caries recurrence group, and 15 in the healthy control group. Salivary peptides that exhibited no significant differences in cross-sectional comparisons between different groups of caries status but only expressed differentially along with dynamic changes of individual caries were screened using the technique of magnetic beads combined with matrix-assisted laser desorption-ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS). The technique of liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS/MS) was employed to identify the proteins from which these peptides were derived.

Results

We found two salivary peptides differentially expressed only under dynamic changes in individual caries status in the above comparisons; mass-to-charge ratio (m/z) values of the two peptides were 1045.9 and 2517.6, respectively (P < 0.05). Principal component analysis (PCA) and the decision tree model based on these two peptides showed an acceptable distinguishing ability for changes in the high-risk status of early childhood caries. The source proteins of the two peptides withm/zvalues of 1045.9 and 2517.6 were identified as submandibular gland androgen regulatory protein 3B (SMR-3B) and mucin-7, respectively.

Conclusions

Two proteins in children’s saliva, namely SMR-3B and mucin-7, have the potentiality to serve as candidate biomarkers for dynamic surveillance of changes in high-risk status of early childhood caries.
The role of rural–urban linkages in perceived environmental effects of farmers for participation in sustainable food security plans
Authors: Shafieisabet Naser , Mirvahedi Neginsadat
Published: November 2021

Background

This study examines the rural–urban linkages about the perceived farmers' environmental effects of food security plans to participate in these plans in Iran's rural areas. We have also considered the mediating role of farmers' empowerment as the capacity of rural–urban linkages in this field. In the past, increasing food production and supply in the short term for urban and rural areas was concerned with food security. However, over time, in sustainable food security, instead of emphasizing increasing production and maximizing resource pressure, empowering farmers to become more involved in food security plans is essential. Therefore, using the capacity of rural–urban linkages and directing them towards empowering farmers reduces the negative consequences of food security plans.

Methods

The present research is quantitative and has been done by the descriptive-analytical method. Statistical methods in this study were performed by correlation analysis and regression using software (SPSS). In addition, the structural equation model (SEM) was performed using the least-squares method (PLS) and software (SMART PLS 3).

Results

The results showed that rural–urban linkages have a positive effect on empowering farmers. Empowerment of farmers affected by rural–urban linkages is effective on the environmental effects perceived of food security plans. Perceived environmental–ecological and political–cultural effects of farmers from implementing food security plans are not effective in their participation. However, socio-economic effects provide the basis for farmers' participation in the process of sustainable food security. In general, empowerment affected by rural–urban linkages in farmers' participation is effective for investment in diversifying products, improving agricultural and non-agricultural production infrastructure, and processing products.

Conclusions

Rural–urban linkages through the empowerment of urban specialists in formal and informal organizations are an essential step towards improving the farmers' perceived effects of implementing food security plans. This issue creates the context for increasing the participation of farmers in such plans. Thus, with increasing attention to empowering farmers in implementing sustainable food security plans, their perceived environmental effects of implementing these projects will increase. It also provides the basis for their participation in these plans.
Decentralizing healthcare in Norway to improve patient-centered outpatient clinic management of rheumatoid arthritis – a conceptual model
Authors: Brkic Alen , Kim Jung G. , Haugeberg Glenn , Diamantopoulos Andreas P.
Published: November 2021

A growing population of older adults and improved effective treatments for inflammatory rheumatic diseases will increase the demand for more healthcare resources that already struggle with staggering outpatient clinic waiting times. Transformative delivery care models that provide sustainable healthcare services are urgently needed to meet these challenges. In this mini-review article, a proposed Lifelong Treatment Model for a decentralized follow-up of outpatient clinic patients living with rheumatoid arthritis is presented and discussed.

Our conceptual model follows four steps for a transformative care delivery model supported by an Integrated Practice Unit; (1) Diagnosis, (2) Treatment, (3) Patient Empowered Disease Management, and (4) Telehealth. Through an Integrated Practice Unit, a multidisciplinary team could collaborate with patients with rheumatoid arthritis to facilitate high-value care that addresses most important outcomes of the patients; (1) Early Remission, (2) Decentralization, (3) Improved Quality of Life, and (4) Lifelong Sustain Remission.

The article also addresses the growing challenges for the healthcare delivery system today for patients with rheumatoid arthritis and proposes how to reduce outpatient clinic visits without compromising quality and safety.
Evaluation of Metarhizium rileyi Farlow (Samson) impregnated with azadirachtin and indoxacarb against Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner)
Authors: Dev Bhisham , Verma Subhash Chander , Sharma Prem Lal , Chandel Rajeshwar Singh , Gaikwad Mahesh Balaso , Banshtu Tanuja , Sharma Priyanka
Published: November 2021

Background

Entomopathogenic fungi are the most versatile having a wide host range, capable of infecting insects at different developmental stages. In the present study, Metarhizium rileyi, at the concentrations of 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107 and 108 conidia/ml and sub-lethal concentrations of azadirachtin (1.02 and 1.53 ppm) and indoxacarb (0.72 ppm) were evaluated against the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th larval instars of Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) under laboratory conditions.

Results

M. rileyi applied at 106 conidia/ml caused a maximum mortality of 83.33 and 80.00% of 1st and 2nd larval instars of H. armigera, respectively. The maximum mortality of 3rd, 4th and 5th larval instars of H. armigera with 108 conidia/ml of M. rileyi was 83.33, 76.67 and 53.33%, respectively. When M. rileyi blended with azadirachtin at 1.02 ppm, the highest mortality rate of 86.21% at 106 conidia/ml against 2nd instar larvae was resulted. Similarly, M. rileyi applied at 108 conidia /ml mixed with azadirachtin (1.53 ppm) showed 89.66% mortality of 3rd instar larvae. The 2nd instar larvae treated with M. rileyi at 106 conidia/ml, mixed with indoxacarb (0.72 ppm), the corrected mortality rate was 82.14%. Concentration mortality response of 3rd instar larvae to M. rileyi blended with indoxacarb (0.72 ppm) was 85.71% at 108 conidia/ml. The median lethal concentration (LC50) values were 5.51 × 103, 1.86 × 104, 2.81 × 105 and 5.55 × 105 conidia/ml for 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th larval instars, respectively, after 7 days of treatment. M. rileyi when mixed with sub-lethal concentrations of azadirachtin (1.02 ppm) and indoxacarb (0.72 ppm) resulted LC50 values of 1.09 × 104 conidia/ml and 1.37 × 104 conidia/ml against 2nd instar larvae, respectively, after 24 hours. Similarly, M. rileyi mixed with sub-lethal concentrations of azadirachtin (1.53 ppm) and indoxacarb (0.72 ppm) resulted LC50 values of 3.12 × 108 and 3.06 × 105 conidia/ml against 3rd instar larvae, respectively, after 24 hours. The study revealed that the susceptibility of larvae decreased in case of large larval instars.

Conclusions

M. rileyi can be utilized as one of the component of Integrated Pest Management Program for the eco-friendly management of H. armigera. As the application of M. rileyi @ 107 conidia/ml alone or in combination with azadirachtin (1.02 and 1.53 ppm) or indoxacarb (0.72 ppm) resulted to the highest mortality.
Selection of suitable predatory mites against, Panonychus citri (McGregor) (Acari: Tetranychidae) using relative control potential metrics and functional response
Authors: Qayyoum Muhammad Asif , Song Zi-Wei , Khan Bilal Saeed , Akram Muhammad Irfan , Shabbir Muhammad Zeeshan , Hussain Izhar , Zhang Bao-Xin , Zheng Yuan , Li Dun-Song
Published: November 2021

Background

Selection of suitable predators for the control of the spider mite,Panonychus citriis always a challenge due to the lack of their reliable predicted efficacy. In this laboratory study, biological control potential ofNeoseiulus californicus,N. cucumerisandScapulaseius newsami,againstP. citriusing the “Relative Control Potential” (RCP) metric to compare their efficacies was evaluated. The functional response type was determined at different prey densities (after 24 h).

Results

The type II functional responses were observed from all the tested predators feeding on 3 different life stages ofP. citri, exceptN. cucumeris,which was fed only on eggs. All predatory mites preferred eggs ofP. citriwith a higher attack rate (1.397) inN. cucumeris, followed byN. californicus(1.238) andS. newsami(0.975). Handling time was also lower inN. cucumeristhan other mites, with a trend as: forN. cucumeris, eggs > adults > immature stages; forN. californicus, immature stages > eggs > adults, while forS. newsami, eggs > immature stages > adults. The integration of greenhouse abundance and fecundity (%) data resulted in a higher RCP forN. cucumeristhan other predators.

Conclusion

Neoseiulus cucumeriswas selected as the most suitable predatory mite for the control ofP. citriwith a higher RCP and potential to maximum reproduction.S. newsami,which was used for the first time, gave almost similar results compared toN.californicusbut with lower efficacy.
Managing reproductive problems in women with epilepsy of childbearing age
Authors: Lai Wanlin , He Shixu , Zhou Dong , Chen Lei
Published: November 2021

Girls and women constitute nearly 50% of all epilepsy cases. Apart from the disease symptoms, epilepsy and antiseizure medications (ASMs) may also affect the reproductive function, pregnancy and even the health of their offspring. Therefore, it is very important to identify and summarize the problems and risks for women with epilepsy (WWE) of childbearing age, and offer internationally recognized methods through multidisciplinary collaboration. In this review, we summarize the reproduction-related problems with WWE and propose multidisciplinary management by epileptologists, gynecologists and obstetricians, as well as other experts, from preconception to delivery. Large, multicenter registries are needed to advance our knowledge on new ASMs and their effects on WWE and their offspring.
Phonon scattering and exciton localization: molding exciton flux in two dimensional disorder energy landscape
Authors: Qi Pengfei , Luo Yang , Shi Beibei , Li Wei , Liu Donglin , Zheng Liheng , Liu Zhixin , Hou Yanglong , Fang Zheyu
Published: November 2021

Two dimensional excitonic devices are of great potential to overcome the dilemma of response time and integration in current generation of electron or/and photon based systems. The ultrashort diffusion length of exciton arising from ultrafast relaxation and low carrier mobility greatly discounts the performance of excitonic devices. Phonon scattering and exciton localization are crucial to understand the modulation of exciton flux in two dimensional disorder energy landscape, which still remain elusive. Here, we report an optimized scheme for exciton diffusion and relaxation dominated by phonon scattering and disorder potentials in WSe2 monolayers. The effective diffusion coefficient is enhanced by > 200% at 280 K. The excitons tend to be localized by disorder potentials accompanied by the steadily weakening of phonon scattering when temperature drops to 260 K, and the onset of exciton localization brings forward as decreasing temperature. These findings identify that phonon scattering and disorder potentials are of great importance for long-range exciton diffusion and thermal management in exciton based systems, and lay a firm foundation for the development of functional excitonic devices.
“Agents of Change” in Maternal and Infant Care:Matronas,Parteras, and Public Health in Bolivia, 1950s–1970s
Authors: Gallien Kathryn N.
Published: November 2021

In the 1950s and 1960s young women could study to become obstetric midwives (matronas) at two Bolivian universities. After the 1952 Bolivian Revolution, public health officials saw matronas' work in mining areas and rural public health programs as part of the government's effort to assimilate Indigenous Bolivians into a mestizo national culture, by reforming Indigenous mothers and eliminating demand for Andean midwives (parteras). By the 1970s, a military dictatorship had replaced the revolutionary government, and nursing schools had replaced midwifery programs. The last cohort of matronas now found jobs in public health offering trainings to parteras. Based on oral histories of matronas and parteras, this article examines these women's personal experiences with midwifery and public health. It argues that matronas and parteras shaped public maternal and infant care programs and contributed to the persistence of multiple forms of childbirth assistance in Bolivia.
Κυβερνοθετική
Authors: Plant Sadie , Land Nick
Published: November 2021

Γραμμένη μέσω των τεχνικών της μίξης και του μοντάζ, συγχωνεύοντας την αισθητική της επιστημονικής φαντασίας με τη φιλοσοφία των Ντελέζ και Γκουαταρί, η Κυβερνοθετική χαρτογραφεί ένα μέλλον που ίσως και να είναι ήδη εδώ. Με σημείο εκκίνησης τη «θετική ανάδραση» του Γουίνερ, το κείμενο συγκεράζει τις δυνάμεις τις αγοράς με τα συστήματα ασφάλειας και τα βιοπληροφοριακά μέσα για να καταδείξει το πως δημιουργούνται συνθήκες κρίσης στις κοινωνίες και αποσταθεροποιούνται οι κρατικές δομές διακυβέρνησης και ελέγχου.
Παρουσίαση της Επιστημονικής Σειράς "Κυβερνοψυχολογία και Κοινωνία"
Authors: Σιδηροπούλου Ανθή
Published: November 2021

Παρουσίαση της Επιστημονικής Σειράς Κυβερνοψυχολογία και Κοινωνία από τις Εκδόσεις Παπαζήση
Discrimination of the SARS–CoV-2 strains using of coloured s-LASCA-imaging of GB-speckles, developed for the gene “S” nucleotide sequences
Authors: Ulianova Onega , Saltykov Yury , Ulyanov Sergey , Zaytsev Sergey , Ulyanov Alexander , Feodorova Valentina
Published: November 2021

Background: A recent bioinformatics technique involves changing nucleotide sequences into 2D speckles. This technique produces speckles called GB-speckles (Gene Based speckles). All classical strategies of speckle-optics, namely speckle-interferometry, subtraction of speckle-images as well as speckle-correlometry have been inferred for processing of GB-speckles. This indicates the considerable improvement in the present tools of bioinformatics.  

Methods: Colour s-LASCA imaging of virtual laser GB-speckles, a new method of high discrimination and typing of pathogenic viruses, has been developed. This method has been adapted to the detecting of natural mutations in nucleotide sequences, related to the spike glycoprotein (coding the gene «S») of SARS–CoV-2 gene as the molecular target.   

Results: The rate of the colouring images of virtual laser GB-speckles generated by s-LASCA can be described by the specific value of R. If the nucleotide sequences compared utilizing this approach the relevant images are completely identical, then the three components of the resulting colour image will be identical, and therefore the value of R will be equal to zero. However, if there are at least minimal differences in the matched nucleotide sequences, then the value of R will be positive.   

Conclusion: The high effectiveness of an application of the colour images of GB-speckles that were generated by s-LASCA- has been demonstrated for discrimination between different variants of the SARS–CoV-2 spike glycoprotein gene.
HR practices and turnover intention; the mediating role of organizational commitment in Tehran: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Hassanpour Mohammaad Kashinejad , Chong Chin Wei , Chong Siong Choy , Ibrahim Okour Mohammad Khaleel , Behrang Samadi , Tan Xin Yee
Published: November 2021

Background: Employees are increasingly being recognised as a valuable source of information, especially in knowledge-based businesses. Businesses, however, suffer financial and organisational memory losses related to re-hiring and training new staff, and lost productivity and intellectual property because of employee turnover. Hence, employee turnover should be considered an essential part of human resource management. Furthermore, employees’ trust in management and human resource (HR) practices substantially impact organisational commitment (OC). Thus, anticipating employee commitment and turnover intentions is crucial, as people are the sole source for knowledge-based firms to maintain their competitive advantage. In the context of selected Tehran Renewable Energy (RE) firms, this study investigated the mediating impact of OC on the relationship between HR practices (recruitment and selection; training and development opportunities; performance appraisal and evaluation; teamwork; compensation and pay; and job security) and employee turnover intention.

Methods: This is a cross-sectional study in Tehran that involved 90 experts and knowledgeable employees from four of Tehran's top RE businesses. A questionnaire was distributed to collect data which was later analysed with correlation, regression and bootstrapping analyses.

Results: All six dimensions of HR practices were discovered to have an indirect impact on turnover intention and a direct impact on OC. OC among employees has an indirect effect on turnover intention. It was also revealed that the training and development opportunity has the most considerable effect on OC and turnover intention. OC was not found as a mediator between HR practices and turnover intention.

Conclusions: The outcomes of this study showed that both training and development opportunities; and pay and compensation structure were found to be two significant components of HR practices in the relationship with OC. RE managers should employ appropriate HR strategies, particularly in these two dimensions, to improve an individual's degree of OC and reduce turnover intention.
ELIXIR and Toxicology: a community in development
Authors: Martens Marvin , Stierum Rob , Schymanski Emma L. , Evelo Chris T. , Aalizadeh Reza , Aladjov Hristo , Arturi Kasia , Audouze Karine , Babica Pavel , Berka Karel , Bessems Jos , Blaha Ludek , Bolton Evan E. , Cases Montserrat , Damalas Dimitrios Ε. , Dave Kirtan , Dilger Marco , Exner Thomas , Geerke Daan P. , Grafström Roland , Gray Alasdair , Hancock John M. , Hollert Henner , Jeliazkova Nina , Jennen Danyel , Jourdan Fabien , Kahlem Pascal , Klanova Jana , Kleinjans Jos , Kondic Todor , Kone Boï , Lynch Iseult , Maran Uko , Martinez Cuesta Sergio , Ménager Hervé , Neumann Steffen , Nymark Penny , Oberacher Herbert , Ramirez Noelia , Remy Sylvie , Rocca-Serra Philippe , Salek Reza M. , Sallach Brett , Sansone Susanna-Assunta , Sanz Ferran , Sarimveis Haralambos , Sarntivijai Sirarat , Schulze Tobias , Slobodnik Jaroslav , Spjuth Ola , Tedds Jonathan , Thomaidis Nikolaos , Weber Ralf J.M. , van Westen Gerard J.P. , Wheelock Craig E. , Williams Antony J. , Witters Hilda , Zdrazil Barbara , Županič Anže , Willighagen Egon L.
Published: November 2021

Toxicology has been an active research field for many decades, with academic, industrial and government involvement. Modern omics and computational approaches are changing the field, from merely disease-specific observational models into target-specific predictive models. Traditionally, toxicology has strong links with other fields such as biology, chemistry, pharmacology and medicine. With the rise of synthetic and new engineered materials, alongside ongoing prioritisation needs in chemical risk assessment for existing chemicals, early predictive evaluations are becoming of utmost importance to both scientific and regulatory purposes. ELIXIR is an intergovernmental organisation that brings together life science resources from across Europe. To coordinate the linkage of various life science efforts around modern predictive toxicology, the establishment of a new ELIXIR Community is seen as instrumental. In the past few years, joint efforts, building on incidental overlap, have been piloted in the context of ELIXIR. For example, the EU-ToxRisk, diXa, HeCaToS, transQST, and the nanotoxicology community have worked with the ELIXIR TeSS, Bioschemas, and Compute Platforms and activities. In 2018, a core group of interested parties wrote a proposal, outlining a sketch of what this new ELIXIR Toxicology Community would look like. A recent workshop (held September 30th to October 1st, 2020) extended this into an ELIXIR Toxicology roadmap and a shortlist of limited investment-high gain collaborations to give body to this new community. This Whitepaper outlines the results of these efforts and defines our vision of the ELIXIR Toxicology Community and how it complements other ELIXIR activities.
Patient and public involvement in stroke research: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Hall Patricia , Kroll Thilo , Hickey Julianne , Stokes Diarmuid , Lennon Olive
Published: November 2021

Background: Growing consensus supports public and patient involvement (PPI) in research as the lived experience of patients, family carers and users of health and social care services bring unique insights to healthcare research. The impact and burden of stroke present ongoing challenges for those living with its consequences and could potentially limit PPI activity. This review aims to explore PPI in published stroke research to identify and describe the extent, nature and design of PPI activities, the type/s of studies involved and the profile of PPI participants engaged in stroke research.

Methods: This systematic scoping review, guided by the Arksey & O’Malley five step framework, will be reported according to the PRISMA-ScR reporting guidelines. PPI is embedded at each stage of this proposed scoping review from conceptualisation, participation, contribution and collaboration. The Population, Concept, Context (PCC) structure defines the research question which asks - How is PPI in stroke research currently being conducted and how do the study authors report their PPI activities and its impact? A comprehensive range of electronic databases including PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE, PsychINFO and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews will generate a broad range of studies. Grey literature (e.g. OpenGrey, Leanus) and internationally recognised stroke organisation websites will be searched for additional research reports. Data extraction will adhere to the Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines, with results collated and mapped to the research cycle stage/s.

Conclusions: The outlined scoping review protocol will comprehensively identify and map the existing scientific literature that reports PPI in stroke research. Findings will be presented in relation to PPI conceptualisation, participant profiles and activities in stroke research, volume, type and range of approaches. Knowledge gaps and future priorities for PPI in stroke research will be identified.
A policy response to workplace innovation for the rail sector
Authors: CARRANZA GARAZI , De la Rua Oihane , Sanchez Begoña
Published: November 2021

The rail sector is a sector with a significant impact on European industry and it is therefore important that it follows the current innovative trends. We live in an increasingly digitised society but, until now, digitisation has not been a priority issue for the sector as the rules that apply to the entire value chain have hindered the digitisation process. Even so, technologies are not enough, and innovation must be implemented in companies at the organisational and employee level. The RailActivation project has experimented with workplace innovation to foster innovation capabilities in the railway sector, providing elements for companies to remain as innovative and competitive as possible, as well as to have additional tools to adapt to these challenges. In order to help in this process, this article proposes a series of recommendations based on the lessons learnt during the implementation of the project. These recommendations establish a link between policy and workplace innovation practices and could be a reference framework for further research and policy. The suggested policy recommendations are focused on companies and policy makers and are based on the results obtained from the different consultations with the stakeholders involved in this research.
A Formal Analysis of the Concept of Behavioral Individuation of Mental States in the Functionalist Framework
Authors: Malicki Maciej
Published: November 2021

The functionalist theory of mind proposes to analyze mental states in terms of internal states of Turing machine, and states of the machine’s tape and head. In the paper, I perform a formal analysis of this approach. I define the concepts of behavioral equivalence of Turing machines, and of behavioral individuation of internal states. I prove a theorem saying that for every Turing machine T there exists a Turing machine T’ which is behaviorally equivalent to T, and all of whose internal states of T’ can be behaviorally individuated. Finally, I discuss some applications of this theorem to computational theories of mind.
Mathematics Mobile Blended Learning Development: Student-Oriented High Order Thinking Skill Learning
Authors: Yaniawati Poppy , Maat Siti Mistima , Supianti In In , Fisher Dahlia
Published: November 2021

This study aims to develop a mathematics learning application, namely Android-based mobile learning to increase students' High Order Thinking Skills (HOTs). The result of mathematics learning media is a valid and practical mobile learning application product. "Mastering Math" is the name of a mathematics e-learning application designed as a mobile or smartphone application, with specifications for the OS Android. The procedure for the development of virtual mathematical media used the development of the 4D model of Thiagarajan: (1) define; (2) design; (3) develop, and (4) disseminate. The trials conducted included five expert judgments and a small group. The research instruments used were a validation sheet, a practical assessment sheet by the teacher, a practical assessment sheet by students, and a media effectiveness test instrument. Data analysis was performed using Cochran's Q test for similarity of expert validation and qualitative analysis. The teaching materials used are junior high school teaching materials with validity and practicality in the good category to increase students' HOTs. This research implies that the learning of mathematics is more effective and efficient, students' divergent thinking develops, and their learning motivation for mathematics increases.
Physics Students’ Conceptual Understanding of Electricity and Magnetism in Nine Years Basic Education in Rwanda
Authors: Mbonyiryivuze Agnes , Yadav Lakhan Lal , Amadalo Maurice Musasia
Published: November 2021

We investigate students’ misconceptions in electrostatics, direct current (DC) and magnetism which are important in electricity and magnetism. We developed and administered a multiple-choice questionnaire test to reveal students’ misconceptions related to charged bodies, lightning, electric fields, electric potential, forces, DC resistive electric circuits and magnets. This test aimed at obtaining quantitative information about misconceptions and was administered to 380 senior two students from Nine Year Basic Education (9YBE) Schools. The selected students have some experience with the new Rwandan secondary physics Competence Based Curriculum (CBC) that is currently under implementation. We find that senior two students have several common misconceptions related to these concepts. The data indicate that although students have some backgrounds on the subject matter, they still seem to believe that if the two charges are separated by a distance, a large-charged object exerts a greater force of attraction or repulsion on the small one. Considerable number of participated students held the misconception of considering current consumption in the resistor/bulb or the electrical devices in the circuits. They also believed that the battery was a continuous current source. The findings also revealed that students held a misconception that a bar magnet when broken into pieces, it is demagnetized. Moreover, a considerable number of participants hold the misconception that all metals are attracted by a magnet. Our study also revealed some of the statistically significant differences in terms of either gender or location of schools for some items.
Introducción
Authors: Albizúrez Gil Mónica , Pleitez Vela Tania
Published: November 2021

La construcción autorial de las mujeres centroamericanas, en no pocos casos, está ligada a un aspecto clave: sus desplazamientos geográficos, circunstancia que se ha traducido en lo que, a propósito de este dossier, hemos llamado escrituras dispersas en lo global. Por eso hemos apelado a trayectorias intelectuales y a textos gestados y diseminados en varios espacios geográficos por razones de migración, exilios, diásporas, estancias profesionales y/o redes transnacionales.
"Si hubiera sobrevivido en Praga, Ámsterdam o Lodz..." Las políticas de localización en el pensamiento de Adrienne Rich
Authors: Pérez Bernal Marian
Published: November 2021

En este artículo reflexionamos sobre el concepto "políticas de localización" de Adrienne Rich, que consideramos muy fructífero para pensar la identidad. Partimos del concepto de experiencia de Rich con sumo cuidado de evitar caer en discursos esencialistas de la identidad y teniendo en todo momento presente la importancia del lenguaje y de la narración en la construcción de la identidad. Las políticas de localización nos permiten ver nuestra identidad como una intersección de múltiples hilos que construye la trama cambiante, rica y en ocasiones confusa de nuestra identidad. Tomar conciencia de esto puede ser de ayuda para entablar el diálogo, construir expe2riencias compartidas y establecer alianzas entre las diferentes corrientes del feminismo.
Doonstruck Diaries of Victorian Memsahibs: Between the Journal and Jhampaun in Mussoorie and Landour
Authors: Chatterjee Arup K.
Published: November 2021

Established as colonial hill stations in Indian's Doon Valley, in the 1820s, Mussoorie and Landour emerged in Victorian literary imagination with the journals of Emily Eden, Fanny Parks, and the Wallace-Dunlop sisters. This paper argues that the Doon's female imperial architextures invented new prospects of grafting Anglo-Saxon aesthetics on the Himalayan terra nullius, diminishing, miniaturizing, and depopulating aspects of the hazardous, the alien, and the local. A thread of archetypes —jhampauns (Himalayan loco-armchairs) and Himalayan vistas— link the aesthetic arcs in the journals of Eden, Parks, and the Wallace-Dunlops. Although the architexture was ostensibly apolitical, it imbued the Doon's representational spaces with a reproducible English character, rendering its terra incognita into terra familiaris in imperial psyche, while carving a distinct imperial subjectivity for Memsahibs.
Designing a high-efficiency coupling system to couple a hollow Gaussian beam into single-mode fiber
Authors: Fu Shuaikang , Pan Yinqing , Li Jiong , Jiang Ping , Caiyang Weinan , Yang Huajun
Published: November 2021

The low efficiency of coupling a hollow Gaussian beam into single-mode fiber terribly decreases the transmission efficiency of an optical communication system. In this paper, a coupling system containing a shaping lens and a coupling lens is designed based on the vector theory of refraction. The simulation results show that our coupling system can improve coupling efficiency to 81.45%, and the efficiency can still reach 74.73% even though chamfering and other factors are considered. This paper may not only provide engineers with a more efficient coupling system but also provide designers with ideas of hollow–solid (or solid–hollow) beam shaping systems.
The role of competition versus cooperation in microbial community coalescence
Authors: Lechón-Alonso Pablo , Clegg Tom , Cook Jacob , Smith Thomas P. , Pawar Samraat
Published: November 2021

New microbial communities often arise through the mixing of two or more separately assembled parent communities, a phenomenon that has been termed “community coalescence”. Understanding how the interaction structures of complex parent communities determine the outcomes of coalescence events is an important challenge. While recent work has begun to elucidate the role of competition in coalescence, that of cooperation, a key interaction type commonly seen in microbial communities, is still largely unknown. Here, using a general consumer-resource model, we study the combined effects of competitive and cooperative interactions on the outcomes of coalescence events. To do so, we simulate coalescence events between pairs of communities with different degrees of competition for shared carbon resources and cooperation through cross-feeding on leaked metabolic by-products (facilitation). We also study how structural and functional properties of post-coalescence communities evolve when they are subjected to repeated coalescence events. We find that in coalescence events, the less competitive and more cooperative parent communities contribute a higher proportion of species to the new community because of their superior ability to deplete resources and resist invasions. Consequently, when a community is subjected to repeated coalescence events, it gradually evolves towards being less competitive and more cooperative, as well as more speciose, robust and efficient in resource use. Encounters between microbial communities are becoming increasingly frequent as a result of anthropogenic environmental change, and there is great interest in how the coalescence of microbial communities affects environmental and human health. Our study provides new insights into the mechanisms behind microbial community coalescence, and a framework to predict outcomes based on the interaction structures of parent communities.
An accurate mathematical model predicting number of dengue cases in tropics
Authors: Edussuriya Chathurangi , Deegalla Sampath , Gawarammana Indika
Published: November 2021

Dengue fever is a systemic viral infection of epidemic proportions in tropical countries. The incidence of dengue fever is ever increasing and has doubled over the last few decades. Estimated 50million new cases are detected each year and close to 10000 deaths occur each year. Epidemics are unpredictable and unprecedented. When epidemics occur, health services are over whelmed leading to overcrowding of hospitals. At present there is no evidence that dengue epidemics can be predicted. Since the breeding of the dengue mosquito is directly influenced by environmental factors, it is plausible that epidemics could be predicted using weather data. We hypothesized that there is a mathematical relationship between incidence of dengue fever and environmental factors and if such relationship exists, new cases of dengue fever in the succeeding months can be predicted using weather data of the current month. We developed a mathematical model using machine learning technique. We used Island wide dengue epidemiology data, weather data and population density in developing the model. We used incidence of dengue fever, average rain fall, humidity, wind speed, temperature and population density of each district in the model. We found that the model is able to predict the incidence of dengue fever of a given month in a given district with precision (RMSE between 18- 35.3). Further, using weather data of a given month, the number of cases of dengue in succeeding months too can be predicted with precision (RMSE 10.4—30). Health authorities can use existing weather data in predicting epidemics in the immediate future and therefore measures to prevent new cases can be taken and more importantly the authorities can prepare local authorities for outbreaks.
Performance characteristics of low carbon waste material to stabilise soil with extremely high plasticity
Authors: Al-Baidhani Ali , Al-Taie Abbas Jawad
Published: November 2021

The application of low-carbon and natural materials to mitigate the undesired properties of difficult soils is considered as a sustainable solution to the issues regarding these soils. Selecting some natural materials, of low carbon type, from the rubble of demolished buildings or debris from the construction of new buildings and recycling them in a poor or weak soil stabilisation process is a very little explored field of research in Iraq. This paper investigated the geotechnical characteristics of extremely high plasticity soil (EHPS) improved with a low-carbon building stone debris (BSD). Five dosages from coarse and fine soil-size ((BSDC) and (BSDF)) of BSD have been prepared to use in the EHPS-BSD mixtures. The laboratory tests included Atterberg limits, linear shrinkage, unconfined compression, consolidation, and swelling. The effect of the BSD on the time to zero-water content and the maximum swell was included. The efficiency of the BSD was proved by the amelioration of the compressibility and strength, and by reducing the shrinkage, swell pressure, and the potential of swelling. The shrinkage, compressibility, and swelling properties of the EHPS were reduced depending on the gradation and content of BSD. The gradation of BSD had a major role in strength development and controlling the time required to reach the final shrinkage and maximum swell stage.
The Probiotic Containing Foods in Military Dining
Authors: Kalgutkar Padmaj , Ashmin Riya , Kumar Dhananjay , Vasudevan Venugopal , Gopalan Natarajan , Semwal Anil Dutt
Published: November 2021

Probiotics are known to impact positively on one’s health, but this statement may have many concerns and challenges especially when it comes to military dining. The purpose of this review is to determine whether there is scientific research based justification to the recommend promotion of probiotic containing food(s) for service personal consumption. Several research findings have shown its beneficial effect on various conditions such as respiratory tract infections, gastro-intestinal diseases such as infectious diarrhoea, as well as for treating nosocomial infections when admitted to ICU. Peer reviewed literature was searched to identify original research related to the efficacy of pro/pre-biotic containing food(s) in prophylaxis or treatment of several service related ailments viz., acute infectious diarrhoea, depression, service related GI and liver diseases, irritable bowel syndrome, respiratory tract infections, Allergic rhinitis, dental health issues and female urogenital conditions. Available scientific evidence can be wisely used by the practitioners for different conditions keeping in mind the probiotic strain, dose, and method of delivery as the effect is not always the same in every person.
Data Mining Anthropometric Parameters for the Design and Sizing of Female Full Body Protector
Authors: Varte L. Robert , Kakkar Deepika , Rawat Shweta , Singh Inderjeet , Chaudhary Yashmita , Kumar Bhuvnesh
Published: November 2021

Since the entry of female troops in different paramilitary forces, there is a dearth of well-fitted personal protective gear for them to maximise operational safety and protection. A mismatch of anthropometry in design adversely affected the user’s performance during critical operation, compromising the safety and well-being of an individual. A detailed anthropometry-based sizing study was conducted by the research team, on the Indian female paramilitary troops for proper sizing of their protective gears and ensembles. An anthropometric survey of 325 female para-military troops, posted in two locations with age ranged from 21 to 54 years (mean ± SD) value: 37.14 ± 8.49 years was done. Each subject’s 28 different body dimensions were taken. The data was then investigated using the factor analysis method. Principal component analysis technique was used to reduce the variables to similar factor components where, two components with an Eigenvalue of more than 1 were selected. viz. Principal component 1 (girth dimensions) and Principal component 2 (abdomen or waist dimension). These two key variables were used to divide the population into three separate clusters using the K-means cluster method. These cluster groups were validated using a regression tree. Descriptive statistical analysis of data was conducted followed by Cluster analysis (of key components shortlisted) using Statistical Product and Service Solution (SPSS) version 21. The current study was the first complete anthropometric survey of Indian female paramilitary personnel for the development of a female-specific sizing system for a full-body protector (FBP) design resulting is an improved fit of full-body protector.
Are We Equal
Authors: Robson Terri
Published: November 2021

The poems are the musings of an Aspie (not ableist, just how I refer to myself) mind, wondering where, how and if I fit in. I would suspect many on the spectrum ask these questions, or others similar in nature, themselves. I often wonder if I shouldn’t just create my own niche and have you meet me there. In many ways I already have.
Towards Health Equity in a National Autism Strategy: A Lens on Disparities, Barriers, and Solutions
Authors: Scott Kaela , Krasnodembski Megan , Sivapalan Shivajan , Brayton Bonnie , Belanger Neil , Gagnon Robert , McLaughlin Janet , Lai Jonathan
Published: November 2021

Health equity allows people to reach their full health potential and access and receive care that is fair and suitable to them and their needs regardless of where they live, what they have, or who they are. To achieve health equity, equity in healthcare focuses on the role of the health system to provide timely and appropriate care. When viewed in the context of a National Autism Strategy, this extends to ensuring access to the resources that each Autistic person requires to meet their health needs, such as an autism diagnosis, services, and supports. Based on the equity panel discussion held at the Canadian Autism Leadership Summit 2020, this article reflects on the current disparities and barriers to achieving health equity in a National Autism Strategy, and outlines ways to address them. Disparities to equitable care within the autism community extend from the level of support needs of an individual to how those intersect with several key determinants of health including: geography, culture, gender, and socioeconomic status. Notably, barriers arise due to a “lack of” theme, including lack of awareness, knowledge, access, and voice. Four reoccurring ideas were identified for how to address inequities in health care for Autistic people. First, allocate resources for regional or in-community endeavours; second, improve Autistic representation and connection; third, establish a community of allies to advocate and collaborate; and fourth, establish leadership within the community and government to make disability a priority for Canada. To achieve equity in health care in a National Autism Strategy, we need to look at the intersectionality of autism with the key determinants of health. Moreover, to effectively engage with the government, health professionals, and the public, the autism community should strive to find a unified and diverse voice. And finally, conversation must turn to action.