bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fish products developed from ground rainbow trout and tilapia fillet mixtures: Physico-chemical, microbiological and toxicological analyses
Authors: Farias V.M. , Andrade N.M. , Calixto F.A.A. , Duarte M.C.K.H. , Keller L.A.M. , Mesquita E.F.M.
Published: November 2021

ABSTRACT Constant fishing industry innovations in response to consumer demands for novel, balanced healthy products exhibiting high nutritional value, as well as easy to prepare and ready to consume, have led to the emergence of new technologies. Among them, the development of products based on ground beef and fish mixtures are noteworthy. In this context, the purpose of this study was to develop products from different ground rainbow trout and tilapia fillet ratios, in the form of meatballs and nuggets, determining their proximate composition and physico-chemical, microbiological and toxicological characteristics. The average dry matter percentage of the developed products was 29.20±2.30%, while mineral content was 1.45±0.55%, lipid pulp content, 3.70±0.30% and crude pulp protein, 16.60±2.04%. Total psychotropic counts remained below 102 CFU/g, for standard counting on aerobic microorganism plates. Histamine and sulfur-based compounds were not detected in any of the prepared samples. The purpose of the work proposal was to develop foods and technologies that can serve as standards, allowing for simple handling products that apply ground meat mixtures from different fish species to maintain adequate nutritional indices after processing.
Preparation and process optimization of microbial organic copper as a feed additive
Authors: Wei Y.R. , Wei G.X. , Wang Z.Y. , Xie D.D. , Fan X.Y. , Jia Z.P. , Zhang J. , Zhang X.G.
Published: November 2021

ABSTRACT As an essential trace element for animals, copper significantly contributes to the growth and health of animals. Compared to inorganic trace elements, organic trace elements are better supplements; notably, they are acquired through microbial transformation. Therefore, we screened for copper-enriched microorganisms from high copper content soil to obtain organic copper. Sodium diethyldithio carbamate trihydrate was applied as a chromogenic agent for determining micro amounts of intracellular copper through spectrophotometry. In total, 50 fungi were isolated after the successful application of the screening platform for copper-rich microbes. Following morphological and molecular biology analyses, the N-2 strain, identified as Aspergillus niger sp. demonstrated showed better copper enrichment potential than others. Notably, the strain tolerance to copper was nearly thrice that of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, up to 1600mg/L. The content of the organic bound copper was 22.84mg Cu/g dry cell. Using the Central Composite Design (CCD) response surface method, we optimized the fermentation condition (inoculation amount, 13%; temperature, 28(C; pH, 5.0). Compared to the original strain results under the single factor fermentation condition, we reported an increase by 24.18% under the optimized conditions. Collectively, these findings provide a reference for uncovering new and low-cost organic copper additives.
Effects of conditioning on the welfare of jaguars (Panthera onca) in captivity
Authors: Garcia L.C.F. , Dallago B. , Dantas L.G.D. , Bernal F.E.M.
Published: November 2021

ABSTRACT The jaguar is the largest feline in the Americas and in the face of the threat of extinction and the reduction of natural areas, keeping the species in captivity may be important for its conservation. This condition can lead to a reduction in well-being, especially due to spatial limitation and lack of environmental stimulus. In recent decades, techniques have been sought to minimize the negative impacts of captivity, with an increase in the use of environmental enrichment and operational conditioning in order to facilitate routine procedures for the animal management. In this scenario, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of conditioning on the welfare of jaguars in captivity, analyzing behavioral and physiological effects through salivary cortisol. Seven jaguars were studied in a Scientific Breeder. There was an increase in behaviors associated with welfare and cortisol during conditioning, possibly related to learning. The increase in behaviors associated with welfare suggests that the technique can contribute to improve the quality of life of these animals in captivity.
Efficiency of ultraviolet light for disinfection of fertile broiler eggs
Authors: Branco J.R.O. , Dallago B.S.L. , Bernal F.E.M.
Published: November 2021

ABSTRACT This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of ultraviolet light in reducing bacterial load of eggshells and the impact of experimental disinfection on hatching, embryo mortality, and time-borne distribution using broiler breeder hens of different ages (38, 42, and 48 weeks old). Fertile eggs were subjected to different exposure periods (5, 7, and 9 minutes) of UV light (UV-C) with a 254 nm wavelength. For controls, eggs disinfected with paraformaldehyde (5.3 g/m3) and eggs not disinfected (NC). After subjection to disinfection protocols, the eggs were placed into sterile plastic bags containing 20 mL of peptone saline solution (0.1% m:v) and massaged for 1 minute to release the bacterial load. Aliquots of this solution were incubated in specific medium for bacterial growth for 48 hours at 37ºC for subsequent CFU counts. To evaluate the effects of disinfection on production, eggs previously disinfected by UV-C (9 min) and paraformaldehyde and NC eggs were candled between incubation days 10 and 13 and at the end of the incubation period to assess embryonic mortality. Hatchability distribution was performed every 8 hours. The 9 minutes 254nm UV-C light exposure was able to disinfect viable eggs and matched the effectiveness of the paraformaldehyde technique.
Intake, digestibility, ingestive behavior and performance of goats fed spineless cactus genotypes resistant to carmine cochineal
Authors: Munhame J.A. , Batista Â.M.V. , Monnerat J.P.I.S. , Maciel M.V. , Lopes L.A. , Silva T.G.P. , Andrade R.B. , Cardoso D.B. , Carvalho F.F.R.
Published: November 2021

ABSTRACT The objective was to evaluate the intake and digestibility of nutrients, ingestive behavior, and performance of goats fed with spineless cactus genotypes resistant to carmine cochineal (Miúda or Orelha de Elefante Mexicana (OEM). Thirty castrated male goats, without defined breed, aged 12 to 14 months, with an average body weight of 19.0±2.8kg, were distributed in a completely randomized design among three treatments (Control - Tifton hay, Miúda, and OEM) and ten replicates; the initial weight was considered as the covariate. The intake of organic matter (OM), neutral detergent fiber (NDF) was highest in the control treatment, while the intake of NFC was higher in the OEM diet. Treatments containing forage cactus showed the highest digestibility of DM, OM, and NFC. The animals fed the control diet spent more time on rumination and total chewing, but the time spent feeding or feeding efficiency, and performance did not differ. The use of spineless cactus genotypes resistant to carmine cochineal (Miúda and Orelha de Elefante Mexicana) in a diet for goats, in the amount of 450g/kg of DM does not interfere with the performance of the animals and improves the digestibility of OM and NFC.
Supplementation of crossbred cows with maize and urea in tropical pasture
Authors: Guerra M.G. , Véras A.S.C. , Ferreira M.A. , Novaes L.P. , Gurgel A.L.C. , Silva L.R.C. , Barreto L.M.G. , Parente M.O.M. , Santos V.L.F.
Published: November 2021

ABSTRACT This research article aims to evaluate the effect of total replacement of corn by soybean meal and urea on intake and apparent digestibility of dry matter and its components, production and composition of milk and feeding behavior of lactating cows grazing, with intermittent stocking Mombaça grass (Megathyrsus maximus cv. Mombaça). Twelve milking cows were distributed in a triple 4 x 4 latin square. Experimental treatments consisted of four soybean meal replacement levels by corn more urea (0; 33; 66; 100%). The grass has an average content of crude protein and neutral detergent fiber of 19% and 59%, respectively. The replacement of soybean meal by corn and urea did not affect the intake and digestibility of nutrients. A linear reduction of milk production was observed, but there was no change in milk production corrected to 4.0% of fat. The milk components (g/kg) of fat, protein, lactose, and total solids were not altered, as well as feeding behavior. Under the conditions of this study, the replacement of the diets is suitable for crossbred dairy cows in lactation third medium, producing in average of 12.5 kg/day-1 when kept in quality pastures.
Selection of F2RC1 saladette-type dwarf tomato plant populations for fruit quality and whitefly resistance
Authors: Oliveira Camila S. de , Maciel Gabriel M. , Siquieroli Ana C. S. , Gomes Danilo A. , Martins Marcos P. do C. , Finzi Rafael R.
Published: November 2021

ABSTRACT This study aimed to select promising F2RC1 populations of saladette-type dwarf tomato plants for the development of breeding lines based on agronomic characteristics, fruit quality, and whitefly resistance. The experimental design was randomized blocks containing 13 treatments (10 F2RC1 populations of dwarf tomato plants, both parents, and a commercial hybrid) with four replicates. The evaluations were performed included weight, length, diameter, shape, pulp thickness, number of locules, soluble solids, β-carotene, and lycopene concentration of the fruit; plant internode length; acylsugars concentration; and number of whitefly eggs, nymphs, and adults on the leaflets. The data were analyzed using ANOVA, selection indices, and multivariate analysis. The first backcross increased the agronomic characteristics of the populations in relation to the donor parent, especially for fruit weight (169.1%), fruit length (26.1%), and fruit diameter (16.6%). The UFU SDi 7, UFU SDi 9, and UFU-SDi 17 populations were selected using two selection indices and were therefore considered promising.
Phosphorus fractions in Cerrado Oxisols fertilized with liquid swine wastewater
Authors: Magalhães Sulamirtes S. de A. , Weber Oscarlina L. dos S.
Published: November 2021

ABSTRACT Knowledge of the forms of phosphorus (P) accumulation in soils that received successive applications of swine waste is essential to prevent the potential contamination risk of shallow waters. This study aimed to evaluate the forms of P accumulation in Cerrado Oxisols subjected to successive applications of liquid swine wastewater. Soil samples were collected from areas with and without use history of swine waste in the 0-0.10 and 0.10-0.20 m soil layers in Campo Verde and Nova Mutum, MT, Brazil. A sequential chemical fractionation was performed, determining the total and available P concentrations. The main forms of P accumulated in the 0-0.20 m layer, despite the soil texture and usage or not of swine wastewater, were residual P and moderately labile P. There was no predominance of more available P forms concerning the unavailable forms when comparing areas with and without the use of swine waste.
Weather conditions favorable for agricultural spraying in Rio Grande do Sul State
Authors: Radons Sidinei Z. , Heldwein Arno B. , Silva Jocélia R. da , Silva Atawana V. da , Schepke Eduardo , Lucas Dionéia D. P.
Published: November 2021

ABSTRACT Knowledge of the periods when the meteorological conditions are favorable for agricultural spraying is important in agricultural planning, particularly in fleet dimensioning. This study aimed to determine, on a temporal scale, favorable weather conditions for agricultural spraying in Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. In addition, the times and months of the year that have the most and least suitable conditions for agricultural spraying were investigated, as well as the meteorological conditions that are frequently limiting and their relationships with the geographic coordinates and altitude of the location. Hourly data from automatic weather stations in 12 locations were collected, totaling 56,500 days and 1,356,009 hourly observations. Wind speeds greater than 3 km h-1 and less than 10 km h-1, air temperatures up to 30 °C, and relative air humidity above 55% were considered favorable. The data were released after descriptive analysis considering the registered frequency and mean. Altitude showed a moderate negative correlation with wind speed favorability. Air temperature was the meteorological element with the greatest favorability for agricultural spraying in the Rio Grande do Sul State, whereas wind speed was the most limiting meteorological element. There were no differences in favorability between the months of the year. The most favorable times were from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 a.m. and the most unfavorable from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Considering the condition in which air temperature, wind speed, and relative air humidity were adequate for agricultural spraying simultaneously in the Rio Grande do Sul State, 43.2% of the periods were favorable.
Mitigation of autogenous shrinkage of high-strength concrete using rice husk ashes with distinct pore structures
Authors: Vieira Amanda Pereira , Toledo Filho Romildo Dias , Tavares Luís Marcelo , Cordeiro Guilherme Chagas
Published: November 2021

The effect of particle size (50% passing size (D50) of 20 μm, 14 μm and 7 μm) and content (8%, 10% and 12% by mass) of rice husk ash (RHA) on the autogenous shrinkage evolution of high-strength concrete was investigated. RHA samples were selected based on differences in their pore structures, which were investigated by means of nitrogen adsorption isotherms, scanning electron microscopy and absorbency tests. Cement–pozzolan hydration development was studied using isothermal calorimetry. The concretes were subjected to mercury intrusion porosimetry and compressive strength tests. Considering a statistical 22 factorial analysis with a central point, the results showed that D50 and the interaction between D50 and RHA content influenced the autogenous shrinkage at 28 and 100 days. The water absorbed internally by the preserved RHA pore structure (D50 ≈ 20 μm) in the high cement replacement (12% RHA) mixes reduced the final autogenous shrinkage of concrete without a decrease in compressive strength. In addition, the RHA with a more preserved pore structure accelerated the hydration kinetics by heterogeneous nucleation. However, this behaviour did not influence the early autogenous shrinkage results.
Myths and Misconceptions about Communication Disorders: A Survey in North Karnataka region
Authors: K Sandhya , S Akshata , K N Meghana , N Sushmitha
Published: November 2021

Introduction: Communication disorders are highly prevalent in India especially in children. Early identification and treatment can prevent children from falling behind academically, socially, and in other key areas. However, identifying children with communication disorders and providing rehabilitation at an early stage is challenging in Indian scenario. Though 21st century has progressed drastically towards the rehabilitation of various communication disorders effectively, not all the regions in India are accepting the scientific rehabilitation. Due of lack of awareness, ignorance and stigma related to communication disorders, some open prejudices still persist in our country, making it difficult for people with communication disorders to have their condition recognized and to seek rehabilitation. However beforehand it is important to know the origin and degree of the problem so that appropriate remedy can be sought. Hence the present study makes one such effort, to study the extent of myths widely spread over north Karnataka region. Method: A questionnaire consisting of 10 questions which focus on myths and misbelieves regarding communication disorders was administered on a total of Six hundred participants in the age range of 18 to 80 years. Results: Results indicated presence of myths in rural population with respect to communication disorders compared to urban population as well as more misconceptions were noticed in older population when compared to younger ones. Conclusion: From the results it can be concluded that further necessary programs needs to be implemented in rural areas and for older age groups of North Karnataka region to create awareness in this regard.
Salmonella serotype prediction using the GalaxyTrakr SeqSero2 workflow v1
Authors: Morin Paul , Timme Ruth , Moore Michelle , Madson Shauna , Ladines Evelyn , Manetas Julia , Jinneman Karen
Published: November 2021

Salmonella serotypes are defined by two surface structures, O antigen and two H antigens. Traditional serotype determination is performed with the Salmonella serological somatic (O) and flagellar (H) tests and paired with biochemical confirmation. More than 2,600 Salmonella serotypes have been described in the White-Kauffmann-Le Minor scheme. Molecular methods for serotype determination have been developed based on genes responsible for serotype antigens. These genes are encoded in the rfb gene cluster, fliC, and fljB. SeqSero2 is a bioinformatic pipeline that uses whole genome sequence (WGS) data from pure-culture isolates to perform in silico analysis to determine the antigenic formula, including somatic (O) antigens and both flagellar (H) antigens. This provides continuity with the well-established scheme for phenotypic Salmonella serotypes. PURPOSE: This document outlines the steps required to run SeqSero2 v1.1.1 on a collection of isolates in the GalaxyTrakr environment. This is performed by utilizing a custom workflow called “SeqSero2 v1.1.1 collection workflow” and downloading the resulting table. SCOPE: This protocol covers the following tasks: 1. set up an account in GalaxyTrakr 2. Create a new history/workspace 3. Upload data 4. Execute the SeqSero2 workflow 5. Download the results
HCR RNA-FISH protocol for the whole-mount brains ofDrosophila and other insects v1
Authors: A. G. Ferreira Amanda
Published: November 2021

This is a protocol to perform RNA fluorescent in situ hybridization (RNA-FISH) using hybridization chain reaction (HCR) on whole-mount samples of the brains of the fly Drosophila melanogaster and other insects, e.g. the jumping ant Harpegnathos saltator. Probes and HCR reagents are purchased from Molecular Instruments. This protocol is loosely based on the "generic sample in solution" protocol published by Molecular Instruments. Our modifications include the description of fixation conditions, counterstaining by Hoechst, and altered washes. Additionally, we use larger concentrations of probes and hairpins following the protocol described by Younger, Herre et al. 2020. We have successfully employed this protocol to stain insect brains with up to 4 different probe sets simultaneously (hairpins conjugated with Alexa Fluor 488, 546, 496, and 647).
COMPUTATIONAL ANALYSIS OF BIOACTIVE COMPOUNDS Piper crocatum AS INHIBITORS OF ACETYLCHOLINESTERASE v1
Authors: Safithri Mega , not provided Ihsanawati , Kurniasih Rini
Published: November 2021

This study aims to determine the inhibition of natural compounds P. crocatum against AChE enzyme activity. Inhibition of natural compounds of P. crocatum was analyzed by combining virtual screening and molecular docking methods with two different software, namely Autodock Tools 1.5.6 and YASARA Structure. This method is expected to improve the ability to identify potential natural compounds contained in betel leaf as AD drug candidates with AChE inhibition mechanism. A total of 21 natural compounds from three red betel leaf extract fractions (water fraction, ethyl acetate, and n-hexane) were analyzed for their binding affinity energy to AChE by virtual screening along with 664 active compounds known to have AChE inhibitory activity based on the DUD-E database to identify the potential of natural compounds for each fraction of red betel leaf (P. crocatum) inhibits AChE activity
Total DNA extraction from microalgae strain samples using NucleoSpin Plant modified kit (Macherey Nagel) v1
Authors: Romac Sarah
Published: November 2021

This DNA extraction protocol allows to get both eukaryotic and prokaryotic DNA from microalgae strains, so the microbiome diversity can be studied in cultures by using this protocol.
Clinical characterization of a cohort of patients under treatment for systemic lupus erythematosus in Colombia v1
Authors: Machado Alba Jorge
Published: November 2021

Introduction/objectives: To describe the clinical characteristics and health care resource utilization in a Colombian systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) outpatient cohort. Method: Retrospective descriptive study. Clinical records and claims data of SLE patients from ten specialized primary care centers in Colombia between July 2017 and June 2018 were reviewed. Baseline clinical variables, SLE activity (SLEDAI), drugs use, and direct costs were measured. Results: A total of413 patients were included, 361 (87.4%) female; mean age was 42±14 years. Mean disease evolution was 8.9±6.0 years; 174 patients (42.1%) had a systemic manifestation at baseline, mostly lupus nephritis (105; 25.4%). 334 patients (80.9%) had at least one comorbidity, mainly antiphospholipid syndrome (90; 21.8%) and hypertension (76; 18.4%). Baseline SLEDAI score was 0 in 215 patients (52.0%), 1-5 in 154 (37.3%), 6-10 in 41 (9.9%) and 11+ in 3 (0.7%). All patients received pharmacological therapy, the most common were corticosteroids (293; 70.9%), followed by antimalarials (chloroquine 52.5%, hydroxychloroquine 31.0%), immunosuppressants (azathioprine 45.3%, methotrexate 21.5%, mycophenolate mofetil 20.1%, cyclosporine 8.0%, cyclophosphamide 6.8%, leflunomide 4.8%) and biologicals (10.9%). The mean annual costs were USD 1954 per patient/year, USD 1555 for anti-rheumatic drugs (USD 10,487 for those with biologicals), USD 86 for medical visits, USD 235 for drug infusions and USD 199 for laboratory tests. Conclusions SLE generates an important economic and morbidity burden for the Colombian health system. SLE outpatient attention costs in the observation year were mainly determined by drug therapy (especially biologics), medical visits and laboratory tests.
Criteria of Hospital Inpatient Admission of Pediatric Dental Patient
Authors: Alkhuwaiter Shahad S
Published: November 2021

Some dental conditions that are presented to the pediatric emergency department need hospital inpatient admission to facilitate supportive care, provide dental treatment and monitor the physiologic state of the child. The decision to treat the pediatric dental patient as an outpatient or inpatient is very important to control the overuse of hospital resources and at the same time not placing the child at the risk of rapid deterioration. However, no available guidelines or validated measures for the correct decision to treat the patient in either inpatient or outpatient care settings that can be used specifically for pediatric dental patients presented to the emergency department. Up to date, the decision of admitting pediatric patients is usually based on the severity of illness that can be measured by using The Pediatric Risk of Admission (PRISA II) Score. This review gives an overview of indications and clinical criteria of hospital inpatient admission of pediatric patients subsequent to traumatic and non-traumatic dental conditions.
Dilemma in the Treatment of a Central Giant Cell Granuloma
Authors: Toferer Astrid , Truschnegg Astrid , Merl Lisa , Liegl-Atzwanger Bernadette , Zemann Wolfgang , Beham Alfred
Published: November 2021

Management of central giant cell granuloma (CGCG) presents a clinical challenge. While eradicating a lesion known for its high recurrence rate calls for radical surgical approaches, these cause significant esthetic and functional impairment. We present an eight-year-old boy suffering from an extraordinarily large CGCG expanding into the mandible and base of the mouth in the whole anterior region. Combined treatment with surgical intervention and corticosteroid application was successfully applied, and all six attached dental germs could be preserved. Different approaches for clinical management in pediatric cases are discussed.
Evaluation of perceptions of general physicians regarding the association of obstructive sleep apnoea with depression in the real world setting in the United Kingdom
Authors: Manghnani Rajiv M.
Published: November 2021

Background: Patients with depression may also have obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). Management of OSA in patients with depression may improve depression and neurocognitive functions. Hence it is important to identify OSA early when assessing patients with depression or cognitive impairment. Aim of the study was to evaluate the knowledge attitude and practices of general practitioners (GPs) in the United Kingdom (UK) regarding OSA in patients with depression.Methods: A questionnaire (11 questions) regarding OSA symptoms and relevant questions to be asked during history taking by the GP was prepared. Twenty GPs across UK were sent the questionnaire by email and were asked to send their responses to the questionnaire.Results: All the respondents concurred that OSA can have a correlation with depression. Yet, only 33% of respondents asked questions related to OSA to their patients. 67% of GPs reported not asking their patients relevant questions about OSA citing lack of time. The symptom most commonly reported by their patients was difficulty concentrating during the day. 79% GPs reported that they diagnosed OSA from the history in less than 10% of their patients. The chief barriers for initiating treatment for OSA in patients with depression included need for referral of patients with OSA to a specialist (50%), patient acceptance (34%) and 13% GPs were uncertain about the barriers to initiating treatment.Conclusions: Primary care physician should determine the underlying cause of depression rather than simply diagnosing the patient as depressed. OSA must be evaluated in patients with depression by the primary care physician.
COVID‐19 and Ontario's Long‐Term Care Homes
Authors: Stall Nathan M. , Brown Kevin A. , Maltsev Antonina , Jones Aaron , Costa Andrew P. , Allen Vanessa , Brown Adalsteinn D. , Evans Gerald A. , Fisman David N. , Johnstone Jennie , Jüni Peter , Malikov Kamil , McGeer Allison , Rochon Paula A. , Sander Beate , Schwartz Brian , Sinha Samir K. , Smith Kevin , Tuite Ashleigh R. , Hillmer Michael P.
Published: November 2021

Ontario long‐term care (LTC) home residents have experienced disproportionately high morbidity and mortality, both from COVID‐19 and from the conditions associated with the COVID‐19 pandemic. As of July 10, 2021, a total of 3,975 LTC home residents have died of COVID‐19, totaling 43.0% of all 9,245 COVID‐19 deaths in Ontario.

The most important risk factors for whether a LTC home will experience an outbreak is the daily incidence of SARS‐CoV‐2 infections in the communities surrounding the home and the occurrence of staff infections. The most important risk factors for the magnitude of an outbreak and the number of resulting resident deaths are older design, chain ownership, and crowding.

Many Ontario LTC home residents have experienced severe and potentially irreversible physical, cognitive, psychological, and functional declines as a result of precautionary public health interventions imposed on homes, such as limiting access to general visitors and essential caregivers, resident absences, and group activities. There has also been an increase in the prescribing of psychoactive drugs to Ontario LTC residents.

The accumulating evidence on COVID‐19 in Ontario's LTC homes has been leveraged in several ways to support public health interventions and policy during the pandemic. Several further measures could be effective in preventing COVID‐19 outbreaks, hospitalizations, and deaths in Ontario's LTC homes. This includes improving staffing, minimizing LTC worker infection, decrowding LTC homes, enhanced infection prevention and control (IPAC) measures, a more balanced and nuanced approach to public health measures, and additional strategies to promote COVID‐19 vaccine acceptance amongst residents and staff.
Racial Differences in Self‐Appraisal, Religious Coping, and Psychological Well‐being in Later Life During the COVID‐19 Pandemic
Authors: Goler Timothy D. , Bhatta Tirth R. , Lekhak Nirmala , Langa Neema
Published: November 2021

Older adults from minority groups, especially those with pre‐existing health conditions, have been generally considered the most vulnerable to the COVID‐19. Due to greater health disadvantages prior to the pandemic, its adverse health impact in terms of mortality has been disproportionately higher on Blacks than Whites. The existing health disadvantages and worsening economic conditions due to the pandemic are likely to be anxiety‐inducing that could adversely impact the mental health of Black older adults. Existing studies conducted in the pre‐pandemic era have documented paradoxical findings on race differences in later life psychological well‐being. Even with significant structural disadvantages, Black older adults tended to report significantly better psychological well‐being (e.g., lower depressive symptoms) than White adults. The racial differences in coping mechanisms have been cited as an explanation for such paradoxical findings. Based on our national web‐based survey (N=1764, aged 50 years or older), we examined race differences in coping resources such as religious coping and self‐appraisal and their impacts on anxiety and depressive symptoms. We documented greater concerns about the personal impacts of the pandemic among Blacks than their White counterparts. The greater concerns about the pandemic were associated with poorer psychological well‐being outcomes. Yet Blacks reported fewer depressive symptoms and lower anxiety than Whites. Our study finds subjective religiosity, religious coping, and emotional support to be responsible for better psychological well‐being among Blacks than Whites. Our study highlights policy implications of coping resources for racial differences in later life psychological well‐being.
A Stage Set for Disaster: For‐Profit Nursing Homes, Federal Law, and COVID‐19
Authors: Papke David Ray
Published: November 2021

This article exposes the tragic relationship between for‐profit nursing homes and the spread of COVID‐19 in those facilities. For‐profit nursing homes came to dominate nursing‐home care in the United States in the second half of the twentieth century. However, for‐profit nursing homes on average provided care which was inferior to the care provided in state‐run and nonprofit nursing homes. Congress attempted to address the problems in nursing homes in the final decades of the twentieth century, but massive statutes and abundant regulations served mostly to legitimize for‐profit nursing homes. COVID‐19 then underscored the flaws in the legally sanctioned, for‐profit nursing homes, as thousands died within the problematic institution's walls.
Transient MHD Radiative Fluid Flow over an Inclined Porous Plate with Thermal and Mass Diffusion: An EFDM Numerical Approach
Authors: Alam Noor , Poddar Saykat , Karim M Enamul , Hasan Mohammad Sanjeed , Lorenzini Giulio
Published: November 2021

This research aims to delve into the transient MHD flow over a porous plate having an inclination, with heat and mass diffusion by taking the radiative phenomenon into consideration. The flow controlling equations of continuity, momentum, energy, and concentration are developed using the boundary layer approximations. The radiative flux is described using a differential approximation. The governing time-dependent equations are brought into a conversion to create a system of non-dimensional partial differential equations (PDEs). Numerical schemes approaching the explicit finite difference method (EFDM) are employed to discretize and reckon the equations in dimensional agreement. Stability and convergence checking are prepared to ensure the converging restrictions of pertinent parameters. The profiles of velocity, concentration, and temperature have been illustrated graphically and discussed comprehensively.
Selective Harmonic Elimination Based THD Minimization of a Symmetric 9-Level Inverter Using Ant Colony Optimization
Authors: Bhoopal Neerudi , Rao Dokku Sivanaga Malleswara , Narukullapati Bharath Kumar , Kasireddy Idamakanti , Kumar Devineni Gireesh
Published: November 2021

This paper proposed a new topology of a symmetric single-phase multilevel inverter with the smaller number of semiconductor switches and optimized low-frequency control methods to optimize the Total Harmonic Distortion. A nine-level single phase output is obtained by eight number of active semiconductor switches, four diodes and four capacitors from two asymmetrical dc sources. The selected harmonic order in the output voltage is eliminated by the PWM (SHE-PWM) based on selective harmonic elimination. To optimize the switching angles, an ant colony optimization is introduced. The proposed SHE-PWM and ant optimization are implemented and tested for THD on the SIMULINK platform. The proposed approach offers less THD and is best suited to high-power applications with medium voltage.
Numerical Solution of Two-Parameter Singularly Perturbed Convection-Diffusion Boundary Value Problems via Fourth Order Compact Finite Difference Method
Authors: Lodhi Ram Kishun , Jaiswal Bharat Raj , Nandan Durgesh , Ramesh Katta
Published: November 2021

In this study, we have developed a fourth order compact finite difference method for finding the numerical solution of two-parameter singularly perturbed convection-diffusion boundary value problems. We have used fourth order compact finite difference method on uniform mesh which provides a tridiagonal linear system of equations. The convergence analysis of the proposed method is established through a matrix analysis approach and it is proved that present method gives fourth order convergence results. Present method is implemented on two numerical examples for checking the efficiency and precision of the method. Numerical outcomes are exhibited which supports the theoretical outcomes. Numerical outcomes are compared with other existing methods and found that present method gives more accurate approximate solution as compare to the other existing methods.
Narrowing the Feedback Gap: Examining Student Engagement with Personalized and Actionable Feedback Messages
Authors: Iraj Hamideh , Fudge Anthea , Khan Huda , Faulkner Margaret , Pardo Abelardo , Kovanović Vitomir
Published: November 2021

One of the major factors affecting student learning is feedback. Although the importance of feedback has been recognized in educational institutions, dramatic changes - such as bigger class sizes and a more diverse student population - challenged the provision of effective feedback. In light of these changes, educators have increasingly been using new digital tools to provide student feedback, given the broader adoption and availability of these new technologies. However, despite these efforts, most educators have limited insight into the recipience of their feedback and wonder which students engage with feedback. This problem is referred to as the "feedback gap," which is the difference between the potential and actual use of feedback, preventing educators and instructional designers from understanding feedback recipience among students. In this study, a set of trackable call-to-action (CTA) links were embedded in feedback messages focused on learning processes and self-regulation of learning in one fully online marketing course and one blended bioscience course. These links helped us examine the association between feedback engagement and course success. We also conducted two focus groups with students from one of the courses to further examine student perceptions of feedback messages. Our results across both courses revealed that early engagement with feedback is positively associated with passing the course and that most students considered feedback messages helpful in their learning. Our study also found some interesting demographic differences between students regarding their engagement with the feedback messages. Such insight enables instructors to ask "why" questions, support students' learning, improve feedback processes, and narrow the gap between potential and actual use of feedback. The practical implications of our findings are further discussed.
Comunicação política e midiatização: o embate de Bolsonaro com a imprensa
Authors: Fernandes Carla Montuori , Oliveira Luiz Ademir de , Coimbra Mayra Regina , Santos Deborah Luísa Vieira dos
Published: November 2021

O presente artigo discute a estrutura midiática contemporânea e a interação social mediada, por meio do encadeamento midiático que se dá entre o Twitter e a mídia impressa, representada pelos jornais Folha de S. Paulo e O Globo. Para tal, toma-se como objeto o episódio no qual o Presidente Bolsonaro afirmou que a jornalista Míriam Leitão integrava a luta armada durante a Ditadura Militar, questionando o fato de ela ter sofrido tortura durante o regime. Tal acontecimento gerou repercussão na mídia tradicional e nas micromídias – Twitter e Facebook. Para observar a ocorrência do encadeamento midiático entre as redes utilizou-se a Análise de Conteúdo mesclada à Análise de Enquadramento. A abordagem teórica se concentra em dois eixos: a midiatização e a circularidade das mensagens. O trabalho concluiu que as ferramentas digitais, nesse caso o Twitter, viabilizam processos comunicativos de mão dupla e facilita a livre circulação de informações em escala global, ampliando o debate público.
Prevalence of Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Among Indonesian Healthcare Workers During the Covid-19 Pandemic and Its Related Factors
Authors: Tan Alexa Ovilia , Angelina Angelina
Published: November 2021

Introduction: Healthcare workers are the most vulnerable group to infection and mental-emotional problems due to their professional exposure during the COVID-19 pandemic. The studies about healthcare workers’ mental-emotional problems in Indonesia are still limited. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress among Indonesian healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic and its related factors

Methods: This is an analytic cross-sectional study involving Indonesian healthcare workers who were still working during the COVID-19 pandemic. An online-based questionnaire in Google Form, including the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale – 21 (DASS-21) Questionnaire, was distributed through social media from December 2020 to February 2021. The related factors studied were age, gender, domicile, worktime experience, workplace, type of workers, marital status, comorbidities, and COVID-19 history.

Results: A total of 176 respondents were involved in the study, the overall prevalence of mental-emotional problems was 18.75%; with a prevalence of depression was 10.8%, anxiety 12.5%, and stress 12.5%. The incidence of depression was more commonly found in non-functional occupations (OR 4.97; 95% CI 1.00-24.69; p=0.05). The incidence of anxiety was less common in male health workers (OR 0.23; 95% CI 0.08 – 0.66; p=0.007), and nurse occupation (OR 6.41; 95% CI 1.65 – 24.86, p=0.007). The incidence of stress was more commonly found in nurse (OR 8.38; 95% CI 1.49 – 47.13; p=0.014), non-functional (OR 10.17; 95% CI 1.78 – 58.04; p=0.008).

Conclusion: Mental emotional problems during the COVID-19 pandemic were common among Indonesian healthcare workers, both the front-liners and non-functional health workers. Gender and type of worker were significantly associated with depression, anxiety, and stress.
THE ANALYSIS AND RECONSTRUCTION OF LABORATORY ACTIVITIES DESIGN ON THE MATERIAL OF DIFFERENCES BETWEEN ANIMAL AND PLANT CELLS FOR TENTH GRADE STUDENTS
Authors: Fattahillah Nuris , Supriatno Bambang , Anggraeni Sri
Published: November 2021

This research aimed to provide an overview of the practicum design regarding the differences between animal cell and plant cell used in Student Worksheet in Banyuwangi Regency. The samples used were 6 Student Worksheets of practicum work on animal and plant cells consisting of 3 Student Worksheets from the education unit level curriculum (hereafter, KTSP) and 3 Student Worksheets from the curriculum 2013. The sampling technique used in this research was purposive sampling. The instruments used were obtained from the Biology Education Lecturers Team of Indonesia University of Education which consisted of relevance aspect, Competency Aspect, practical aspect and knowledge construction analysis of Vee Diagram adapted from Novak & Gowin (1984). The results of the analysis showed the following: 1.) relevance aspect, not in accordance with the demands of Basic Competence, 2.) Competency Aspect, there were no objects or phenomena that could be observed and the ability to think was only limited to C1, 3.) practical aspect, showing that the suitability of the tools , materials and practicum steps still did not meet the practicum standards, and 4.) the knowledge construction of title/objective had not been focused, the object of the phenomenon could not be observed and only a few theories, principles, and concepts could be identified. This shows that the role of Student Worksheet in practicum activities has not been optimal and practicum reconstruction is needed so that practicum activities can run optimally.
Mineralogical and hydrogeological study of "pouhons" in the lower Palaeozoic formations of the Stavelot-Venn Massif, Belgium
Authors: DEPRET Martin , BRUNI Yannick , DASSARGUES Alain , DEFOURNY Agathe , MARION Jean-Marc , VANDERSCHUEREN Hyacinthe-Willy , HATERT Frédéric
Published: November 2021

Numerous naturally CO2-rich mineral water springs, locally called pouhons, occur in the Stavelot-Venn Massif. These water springs show a particular composition with a high content of iron, manganese and lithium, and are characterised by a red-orange colour resulting from iron hydroxide precipitation near the land surface. Radon measurements have shown that these ferruginous deposits are weakly radioactive. The Upper Cambrian black shales of the La Gleize Formation are also known to display radioactive anomalies. These rocks show enrichment in HFSE (Pb, U, Y, Ce, Zr, Ti, Nb) and are depleted in transition metals (Co, Ni, Cu, Zn). Specific minerals such as florencite-(Ce), monazite-(Ce), xenotime-(Y) and zircon have been identified and are probably at the origin of the radioactive anomalies. Uranium was gradually leached from these minerals, transported in solution, and finally concentrated in ferruginous muds. These muds are mainly composed of goethite (most often amorphous), residual quartz and calcite in some samples. The most probable hypothesis is that uranium is adsorbed in small concentrations on the goethite surface. On the other hand, the Ottré Formation (Ordovician) appears to be the main source of lithium, iron and manganese. Pouhon waters have therefore probably leached rocks of various mineralogy and chemical composition during their sub-surface circulation.
Scenario Model to Mitigate Traffic Congestion and Improve Commuting Time Efficiency
Authors: Khanza Shabrina Luthfiani , Suryani Erma , Hendrawan Rully Agus
Published: November 2021

Background: Commuting time is highly influenced by traffic congestion. System dynamics simulation can help identify the cause of traffic problems to improve travel time efficiency.Objective: This study aims to reduce traffic congestion and minimise commuting time efficiency using system dynamics simulation and scenarios. The developed scenarios implement the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and trams projects in the model.Methods: System dynamics simulation is used to analyse the transport system in Surabaya and the impact of BRT and trams project implementation in the model in order to improve commuting time and to reduce congestion.Results: From the simulation results, with the implementation of BRT and tram projects along with highway expansion, traffic congestion is predicted to decline by 24-44%.  With the reduction of traffic congestion, travel time efficiency is predicted to improve by 11-28%. On the contrary, implementation of BRT and tram project without highway expansion is predicted to increase the traffic congestion by 5% in the initial year of implementation, then traffic congestion is predicted to decline by 2% in 2035.Conclusion: Based on the scenarios, transport project implementation such as BRT and trams should be accompanied with improvement of infrastructure. Further research is needed to develop a more comprehensive transportation system to capture a broader view of the problem. Keywords: Model, Simulation, System Dynamics, Traffic Congestion, Travel Time
Comparison of Backpropagation and Kohonen Self Organising Map (KSOM) Methods in Face Image Recognition
Authors: Moonlight Lady Silk , Faizah Fiqqih , Suprapto Yuyun , Pambudiyatno Nyaris
Published: November 2021

Background: Human face is a biometric feature. Artificial Intelligence (AI) called Artificial Neural Network (ANN) can be used in recognising such a biometric feature. In ANN, the learning process is divided into two: supervised and unsupervised learning. In supervised learning, a common method used is Backpropagation, while in the unsupervised learning, a common one is Kohonen Self Organizing Map (KSOM). However, the application of Backpropagation and KSOM need to be adjusted to improve the performance.Objective: In this study, Backpropagation and KSOM algorithms are rewritten to suit face image recognition, applied and compared to determine the effectiveness of each algorithm in solving face image recognition.Methods: In this study, the methods used and compared in the case of face image recognition are Backpropagation dan Kohonen Self Organizing Map (KSOM) Artificial Neural Network (ANN).Results: The smallest False Acceptance Rate (FAR) value of Backpropagation is 28%, and KSOM is 36%, out of 50 unregistered face images tested. While the smallest False Rejection Rate (FRR) value of Backpropagation is 22%, and KSOM is 30%, out of 50 registered face images. The fastest time for the training process using the backpropagation method is 7.14 seconds, and the fastest time for recognition is 0.71 seconds. While the fastest time for the training process using the KSOM method is 5.35 seconds, and the fastest time for recognition is 0.50 seconds.Conclusion: Backpropagation method is better in recognising face images than KSOM method, but the training process and the recognition process by KSOM method are faster than Backpropagation method due to the hidden layers. Keywords: Artificial Neural Network (ANN), Backpropagation, Kohonen Self Organizing Map (KSOM), Supervised learning, Unsupervised learning