bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Video Camera Analysis to Capture Muscle Specific Endurance
Authors: Hooks Olivia , McCully Kevin
Published: April 2021

Previous studies have used an accelerometer to evaluate muscle endurance. This study compared endurance index values using a video phone to an accelerometer. Eleven healthy subjects (19-22yrs) were electrically stimulated for 5 minutes at 5 Hz on the hamstring muscles. Four 10s videos were captured at 1080p and 60fps (~283,000 pixels) with the phone. Videos were analyzed using sequential correlations (consecutive 1-2, or consecutive skipping an image 1–3) of the video images between the electrodes. The magnitude of the decrease in the correlation was used to indicate movement. A triaxial accelerometer measured the resultant vector of the movements and the decrease in acceleration was used to indicate fatigue. Analysis using 1-3 produced higher delta R2 values compared to 1-2 (0.038+0.004; 0.020+0.001). Endurance index was 72.1+19.4% for the accelerometer and 71.1+18.6% for the phone images, p=0.64. The mean difference between the methods was not different from zero and the 90% confidence interval was within 5%. In conclusion, the consecutive correlations method detected decreases in movement due to fatigue. The video method provided equivalent values to the previously established accelerometer method to measure muscle endurance. These results support the use of video to assess muscle acceleration during muscle specific endurance test.
Neuro Deficit Caused by Vertebral Hemangioma Enneking Stage 3: Incidence, Treatment Options and One Extraordinary Serious Case
Authors: Reinke Andreas , Schmid Gordian , Shiban Ehab , Wild Alexander
Published: April 2021

Objective Aggressive Vertebral Hemangiomas (VH) are very rare lesions that may present with compression fractures or bony expansion and erosion into the epidural space resulting in neurological symptoms. Especially in these patients a surgical treatment is essential. We illustrate our institutional experience and discuss the relevant literature. Method Our database was searched for cases with vertebral hemangioma and the appearance of a neurological deficit between 2015 and 2020. We were able to identify one very extraordinary case which showed a very aggressive nature and resulted in paraparesis twice in the patient. Furthermore a Medline analysis was performed to identify data of this rare illness (aggressive VH, Enneking stage 3, S3) to assess the incidence and therapeutic options for this so called benign vascular tumor. Results One patient was identified in the database with an extraordinary course which resulted in paraparesis twice. A 54-year-old man presented with an acute onset of paraparesis of the legs. Contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a hypervascular tumor of the entire L3 vertebral body and the surrounding tissue with subtotal compression of the spinal canal (Enneking stage 3). After decompression and spinal stabilization a complete recovery of the paraparesis was seen. Two weeks after the initial presentation a recurrence of the paraparesis was noted. The subsequent MRI demonstrated a recurrent increase in the tumor size with spinal canal compression. After endovascular embolization, a gross total tumor resection with a vertebral replacement was performed. The patient was noted to have a complete recovery. Conclusion The number of cases with aggressive vertebral hemangiomas (Enneking Stage 3) is limited. However, despite limited treatment algorithms for these rare cases due to the lack of data, surgical treatment should be recommended, especially in the presence of neurological symptoms. That can be underlined by our institutional experience.
Current Concepts in Imaging Asymptomatic Hematuria
Authors: Kim Jason , Lisanti Christopher , Schwope Ryan , Syed Helal , Jellison Forrest
Published: April 2021

Hematuria is a very common clinical condition that most clinicians will encounter. Hematuria is divided into gross and microscopic hematuria with a wide variety of etiologies. The imaging evaluation of asymptomatic hematuria is generally tailored to identifying a common cause (urinary tract stones) and the most worrisome cause (carcinoma). The workup for asymptomatic gross hematuria is generally agreed upon and includes both CT and cystoscopy. However, the imaging evaluation of asymptomatic microscopic hematuria is controversial due to the much lower risk of urinary tract malignancies. The purpose of this article is to review the imaging of the upper urinary tract focusing on CT, MRI, and ultrasound. Current European and North American society guidelines, imaging techniques, typical imaging findings, diagnostic accuracy, and risks will all be addressed highlighting the current knowledge gaps, particularly between CT and ultrasound.
AN UPDATE ON TOXICITY OF THERAPEUTIC RADIONUCLIDES
Authors: Vallathol Dilip , Digumarti Raghunadharao
Published: April 2021

Targeted radiotherapy is an evolving and promising modality of cancer treatment. Among the many advantages of this approach are its selectiveness in delivering the radiation to the target, relatively less severe and infrequent side effects, and the possibility of assessing the uptake by the tumor prior to the therapy. A number of radionuclides, such as iodine-131 (131I), phosphorus-32 (32P), strontium-90 (90Sr), and yttrium-90 (90Y), have been used successfully for the treatment of many benign and malignant disorders. The toxicity to radionuclides has come into vogue with its increasing utilization for multiple indications. Short term hematological toxicities include cytopenias and long term hematological toxicities include myeloid neoplasms. Non hematological toxicities commonly include renal and hepatotoxicity and long term toxicities like gonadal toxicity. This review focuses on the toxicities which need to be monitored during use of therapeutic radionuclides.
A comparison of volume and anthropometric breast measurements using the Crisalix and VECTRA XT 3-dimensional surface imaging systems in women who have undergone breast-conserving surgery
Authors: MBChB Astrid , Connell Rachel , Dean Stephanie , Micco Rosa , Alotaibi Naser , Barry Peter , Kirby Anna , Rusby Jennifer
Published: April 2021

Introduction Three-dimensional surface imaging (3D-SI) of the breasts enables the measurement of anthropometric distances and breast volume. These measurements may be used in surgical planning and to facilitate clear communication with patients. The aim of this study was to compare measurements using a portable 3D-SI system, Crisalix, with a more established non-mobile camera, the VECTRA XT. Methods Participants were imaged three times using the Crisalix and the VECTRA XT system. Breast volume, sternal notch to nipple distance, nipple to nipple distance and breast width were measured. Intra-observer agreement was measured using the co-efficient of variation (CV). Agreement between the two methods was represented with Bland Altman agreement plots. Results Intra-method variation was low for both methods (maximum CV 3.3% for Crisalix and 3.2% for VECTRA XT), with only nipple-to-nipple distance being statistically significant, marginally in favour of VECTRA. The mean inter-method differences were small but the limits of agreement (LoA) were wide for all parameters: best for sternal notch to nipple distance, mean difference (MD) -0.03cm and LoA 1.8 to -1.8cm; the widest LoA were for breast volume: MD 31.1cm3 and LoA 286.7 to -244.6cm3. Conclusion This is the first comparison of anthropometric distances and breast volume measured using the two most widely used 3D-SI systems, Crisalix and VECTRA XT. Intra-method variation is low but currently it would not be appropriate to use the two systems interchangeably due to the wide limits of agreement for all four parameters assessed.
Should the State Control Tariffs?
Authors: Zaid Zaid , Dawaki Farouk Aisha , Ololade Sabit Kazeem
Published: April 2021

Tariffs or price control has been a controversial subject in recent years. The debate between legal experts and economists is still a hot topic in any discussion. Tariff control regulated in the work creation omnibus law seems to be a topic that must be discussed again regarding this regulation’s urgency. Are specific prices so impressive that the government can intervene in regulating them? This article examines the urgency of rules regarding price controls to create a healthy competitive environment. After conducting a critical literature review, it was analyzed with critical analysis and looking at the objective of competition law was to maximize welfare by protecting competition. The results in this article indicated that the government could only intervene in regulating price-fixing only if companies’ pricing could harm the country’s economy and consumer welfare. The government, therefore, had an interest in regulating the price ceiling. Meanwhile, the price floor, which was believed to be pro-consumer and could promote consumer welfare had no interest and should not have been limited by the government.
El mercado interno novohispano en el diluvio: guerra civil, comercio directo y reorganización espacial, 1813-1818
Authors: Ibarra Antonio
Published: April 2021

En este ensayo se discute la hipótesis de desarticulación del mercado interno novohispano, como producto de la guerra civil entre 1812-1819, destacando por el contrario que la circulación de mercancías entre el complejo portuario de Tampico, Guadalajara y San Blas rebaten la parálisis y muestran una transversalidad en el territorio novohispano. Se usan datos del derecho de “avería”, cobrada por aquel consulado en su jurisdicción, y se establece la relación entre aquel puerto, las ciudades-vector de San Luis Potosí, Zacatecas y Aguascalientes para entender la red viaria que unió el Atlántico con el Pacífico.
A Review of Literature on the Involvement of Children from Indigenous Communities in Anglo Child Welfare Systems: 1973-2018
Authors: Sinha Vandna , Caldwell Johanna , Paul Leah , Fumaneri Paulo Roberto
Published: April 2021

A series of recent legal and policy developments in Canada have potential to contribute to reconciliation efforts, particularly related to the overrepresentation of Indigenous children in child welfare systems. However, systematic collection, analysis, and synthesis of research knowledge—particularly, research that is locally grounded—on Indigenous child welfare involvement is notably missing from these efforts. With the aim of collating existing research knowledge on this topic, this scoping review of literature includes a broad swath of literature spanning decades (1973-2018) and countries with similar settler colonial histories (Canada, the United States, Australia, and New Zealand). Our search yielded 881 unique research publications. There was an increase in the number of publications over time in all four countries and a trend toward more empirical literature than non-empirical literature. We found that a plurality of publications focused on programs and services (n = 191), and policy or legal (n = 168) themes. While our review highlights a large base of literature on Indigenous child welfare involvement, it also illustrates the limits of the academic literature in representing the knowledge and experience of Indigenous Peoples and the need for more comprehensive synthesis and broader dissemination of the research related to Indigenous child welfare. These limitations restrict the extent to which existing research can inform the meaningful development of Indigenous child welfare policy in Canada. Due to these gaps, we advocate sustained investment in efforts to synthesize diverse sources of knowledge, support for open source publications, and structural support for Indigenous control of knowledge collection and dissemination regarding policy development related to their communities.
Current Status, Potentials and Opportunities of Avocado Production as an Alternative Crop: the Case of Ethiopia: A Review
Authors: Jalata Zerihun
Published: April 2021

The current diminishing farmland size and land productivity due to a population pressure, the decline in soil fertility and climate change is as major challenges in crop production making unsustainable necessitating some resilience mechanism. Crop diversification can be a useful strategy. Thus, avocado can be considered as an important alternative crop to the farmers in most areas in Ethiopia as there are high potential and suitability of the agro-ecologies, high domestic and export market potential. Avocado can provides multiple benefits to the farmers especially to improve farmers’ income, increase land productivity, sustainability and food security. Furthermore, it has complementary advantages for business and economic activities of growing towns in nearby areas. And avocado is a high yielder, the nitration value of avocado is recommendable for nutritional deficient people in developing countries including Ethiopia. However, currently, there is a large yield gap of avocado productivity in Ethiopia (about 4.2 t ha-1) as compared to the world (7tha-1) of which lack of improved avocado varieties has been a bottleneck. Because of this, recently some improved avocado varieties have been introduced and on distribution to small-scale farmers by the Ethiopian Ministry of Agriculture in collaboration with USAID. And for better achievement, it should be also supported by research to make more sustainable production and productivity. Therefore, a better understanding of avocado is essential. In this review article, world production and local avocado production trend, importance, potentials and opportunities, some constraints and future direction have been discussed.
Manajemen Peserta Didik di MDTA Al Wahda Terunggul di Kota Bandung
Authors: Chadidjah Sitti
Published: April 2021

Elementary Supplementary Religous School or MDTA is a children's recitation activity at the mosque, which has the legality of Ministry of Relegious Affair. The research location is MDTA Al Wahda at Bandung City. The study has used a qualitative method approach, data obtained by triangulation namely observation, interviews, and documentation. This study aims to obtain information and describe the implementation of student management. Knezevick's theoretical approach to pupil administration personnel as a service centered on the regulation, supervision and services of students in the classroom and outside the classroom. The implementation uses Knezevick's theoretical approach which was modified by Priadi's approach from Yogyakarta State University that pupil management consists of 3 things namely student registration, discipline, student development, and special services for students. This study concludes that the three of pupil management are a simple student recruitment process that has been running well, student development has not been a priority, special student services cannot be fully implemented. The development of santri and santri services has not been maximally implemented to given because the time learning is sort, what it is about 1.5 hours per day.Madrasah Diniyah adalah satu aktivitas pengajian anak-anak di masjid, yang mempunyai legalitas dari Kamenag RI. Lokasi penelitian di MDTA Al Wahda yang terunggul di Kotamadya Bandung. Penelitian menggunakan pendekatan metode kualitatif, data diperoleh dengan triangulasi yaitu observasi, wawancara, dan dokumentasi.  Penelitian ini bertujuan mendapatkan informasi dan mendeskripsikan pelaksanaan manajemen peserta didik. Pendekatan  teori Knezevick pupil personnel administration sebagai layanan yang berpusat pada pengaturan, pengawasan dan layanan siswa di kelas dan di luar kelas.  Implementasinya menggunakan pendekatan teori Knezevick yang dimodifikasi dengan pendekatan Priadi dari Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta bahwa manajemen siswa terdiri dari 3 hal yaitu pendaftaran siswa, disiplin, pengembangan siswa, dan layanan khusus untuk siswa. Penelitian ini menyimpulkan ketiga  indikator manajemen peserta didik yaitu proses rekrutment siswa secara sederhana sudah berjalan, dengan baik, pengembangan siswa belum menjadi prioritas, layanan khusus santri belum bisa dilaksanakan sepenuhnya. Pengembangan santri dan layanan santri belum maksimal dilaksanakan mengingat waktu belajar yang pendek sekitar 1,5 jam per hari.
Dermatolojik Lezyonu Taklit Eden Odontojenik Ekstraoral Fistül Olgularının Tanısı ve Endodontik Tedavisi: Üç Olgu Sunumu
Authors: KURNAZ Safa , KİRAZ Gülsen , EMEK Burçak
Published: April 2021

Odontojenik ekstraoral fistüller pulpa nekrozu sonucu oluşan ve klinik olarak farklı hastalıklarla karıştırılabilen patolojik oluşumlardır. Ekstraoral fistüllerin etkili tedavisinin yapılmasında enfeksiyon kaynağının doğru tanısının yapılması gerekmektedir. Yüz ve boyun bölgesinde görülen ekstraoral fistül varlığında dental muayene çok önemlidir. Odontojenik ekstraoral fistülleri kök kanal tedavisi uygulayarak veya gerekli durumlarda dişin çekimi ile iyileştirmek mümkündür. Bu olgu sunumu da üç farklı dişten kaynaklanan üç ayrı ekstraoral fistül vakasının tedavisini içermektedir. Ekstraoral fistüle neden olan dişlere kök kanal tedavisi uygulanmıştır. Seans aralarında kanal içi medikament olarak kalsiyum hidroksit kullanılmıştır. Vakaların uzun dönem takiplerinde ekstraoral fistüllerin tamamen iyileştiği görülmüştür. Ayrıca takip seanslarında yapılan radyografik incelemelerde periapikal dokularda iyileşme izlenmiştir.
Internet Addiction among Secondary School Students Conditioned By Gender and Age
Authors: LUKİĆ Igor , SAVİĆ Nikola , VUKOSAVLJEVİĆ Ivana , RANKOVİĆ Nevena , RANKOVİĆ Dragica
Published: April 2021

Modern forms of addiction are present very much in adolescents today. Internet dependency is a form of addiction that manifests itself as an individual's state of affairs. The use of the Internet has become the most important activity in life in relation to other everyday tasks and activities, to this extent and in that way, to isolate him from other social activities and to bring harmful consequences both to himself and to his family and the environment. Characteristic cases in adolescents that occur are insomnia, family disagreements, delays in school, or the absence and neglect of school obligations, nervousness, fatigue, physical changes such as neglecting personal hygiene, weight loss or other obesity, and etc. The number of Internet users and their addicts is growing every day. With this research, we want to determine whether it depends on gender and age and to what extent does it exist among high school students.
Thermal Stability and in Vitro Elution Kinetics of Alternative Antibiotics in Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) Bone Cement
Authors: Levack Ashley E. , Turajane Kathleen , Yang Xu , Miller Andy O. , Carli Alberto V. , Bostrom Mathias P. , Wellman David S.
Published: April 2021

Background:

Amikacin, meropenem, minocycline, and fosfomycin have potential clinical utility for orthopaedic infections; however, their suitability for use in polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) is poorly understood. The purpose of this study was (1) to quantify the thermal stability of these antibiotics at clinically relevant temperatures and (2) to determine the elution pharmacodynamics of these alternative antibiotics in vitro from PMMA beads of different sizes.

Methods:

Polymerization temperatures of 10-mm PMMA beads were measured over time to generate a simulated heating curve. Aqueous solutions of tobramycin, amikacin, meropenem, minocycline, and fosfomycin were subjected to the temperature curves, followed by incubation at 37°C. Minimum inhibitory concentrations of each antibiotic were evaluated against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Acinetobacter baumannii. High-dose 4.5-mm, 6-mm, and 10-mm antibiotic-laden PMMA beads (10% antibiotic by weight) were submerged individually in a phosphate-buffered saline solution and incubated at 37°C. Antibiotic elution was determined with use of high-performance liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry.

Results:

Tobramycin, amikacin, and fosfomycin demonstrated thermal stability and maintained antimicrobial activity for 28 days. Minocycline and meropenem lost antimicrobial activity against all 3 organisms after 48 hours and 7 days, respectively. Elution concentrations, rates, and cumulative drug mass for tobramycin, amikacin, and meropenem were orders of magnitude higher than minocycline and fosfomycin at each time point.

Conclusions:

This study identified notable differences in thermal stability and elution among antibiotics used to treat infections. Amikacin exhibited activity similarly to tobramycin. Meropenem demonstrated favorable elution kinetics and thermal stability in the initial 7-day period.

Clinical Relevance:

Amikacin and meropenem show pharmacologic promise as potential acceptable alternatives for local delivery in PMMA for treatment of orthopaedic infections. Further work to establish clinical relevance and utility is needed.
Meningkatkan Sikap Rasa Ingin Tahu Melalui Penerapan Model Project Based Learning
Authors: Setiono Panut , Dadi Sri , Yuliantini Nani
Published: April 2021

Curiosity is a character that must be mastered by students to be able to learn independently. The purpose of this study was to determine the increase in the attitude of curiosity in grade 7A students. The research method used in this research is the Classroom Action Research model of Kemmis, Taggart & Nixon with the stages of planning, implementing, observing, and reflecting activities. The data collection instruments used in this study were the observation sheet of learning implementation and a curiosity attitude questionnaire. From the results of observations of the implementation of learning, there was an increase in the implementation of the PjBL learning model from cycle I and cycle II with a percentage score of 70.0 and 84.17. While the results of the questionnaire attitude of curiosity showed an increase in very high criteria with a score of 9.38% in the first cycle, an increase of 15.63% in the second cycle. So that it can be concluded that the PjBL model can increase the curiosity of students.
Implementasi Pendekatan Home Visit Upaya Mengatasi Problematika Pembelajaran Daring pada Siswa Sekolah Dasar Di Masa Pandemic Covid – 19
Authors: Sholeh Abdul
Published: April 2021

Prevention of the Covid 19 virus is carried out by various parties, including the government stipulating the implementation of education policies in the emergency period of the spread of the Covid 19 virus with steps in the form of learning to be carried out at home using the online method. The implementation of online learning has strengths, challenges and problems/ obstacles. for students, teachers, and parents of students. This study aims to describe the implementation of the home visit approach as an effort to overcome the problems of online learning for elementary school students during the Covid 19 Pandemic. The research method used is qualitative through surveys, observations, interviews via video calls and literature. The application of the home visit approach is carried out through the planning, implementation and evaluation stages with the results of the research, namely that there is intensive communication and cooperation between teachers, students and parents, students are more guided and assisted in learning so that they can overcome learning difficulties. As for the benefits of the research results, namely solving problems of online learning for students, teachers and parents and forging intensive relationships to make learning programs successful in schools.
Peningkatan Hasil Belajar IPA Melalui Implementasi Model Pembelajaran Discovery Learning di Sekolah Dasar Kota Banda Aceh
Authors: Kasmini Lili , Munthe Ilfiana
Published: April 2021

Science is learning that is very closely related to human life, many natural instruments are directly involved in teaching and learning processes. One of the objectives of this study is to see the effect of the Discovey Learning model on student learning outcomes, the Discovery Learning learning model is a learning process that can involve mentally and physically students, so that the learning obtained can last a long time in the memory of students. This research was conducted at SD N 55 Banda Aceh, after observing the learning process of students showing less than optimal results. It can be seen from the learning outcomes before the application of the Discovery Learning model the average learning outcomes are 37 while the average obtained after the application of the Discovey Learning Model is 73. In addition, based on the results of the calculation of the hypothesis that have been determined by the hypothesis acceptance rules, accept Ha If tcount> ttable, the results obtained are degrees of freedom (dk = n-1 = 34-1 = 33) and the significant value is α = 0.05, for this calculation the t-table is 2.19. From the above calculations using the t-test shows that tcount> ttable (2.19> 1.697). The results of the analysis of the average N-gain obtained reached 50 which was categorized as moderate.
Meta Analisis Model Pembelajaran Problem Based Learning terhadap Hasil Belajar Kognitif Di Sekolah Dasar
Authors: Darmawan Yusuf , Airlanda Gamaliel Septian
Published: April 2021

The learning model is a design that is used as a class design. Learning outcomes are changes in behavior obtained after carrying out activities in the learning process of the PBL learning model, learning can develop critical thinking skills for students. In the effectiveness of the PBL learning model, there has not been a comprehensive study of the effectiveness of learning model. The goal is to understand how much influence cognitive learning outcomes and Problem Based Learning learning models have on the learning outcomes of elementary school students. The results of the effect size test using the T-test are seen from the Paired Sample Test listed in the mean column of 49.27 and the standard deviation of 26.09 has a sig value of 0.000. The effect size obtained is 0.37 and seen from cohen's table that PBL learning has a moderate effect on cognitive learning outcomes in elementary schools.
Pengembangan Media Game Petualangan Geomat Berbasis Adobe Flash untuk Meningkatkan Hasil Belajar Siswa Kelas 5 SD
Authors: Putra Theo Hendratta , Mawardi Mawardi
Published: April 2021

The demands of 21st-century learning emphasize primary school teachers and students to have adequate skills, creativity, innovation following global dynamics. To meet the demands of 21st-century learning, the purpose of this study is to develop learning media for the game "Geomat's Adventure" to improve learning outcomes for grade 5 elementary school students. This study uses the Research and Development (R&D) type of research. The results of the material validation obtained a score of 66%, including in the interval 61-80% with the high category. Validation of the learning design obtains a score of 80% in the 61-80% interval getting the high category. Media validation obtained a score of 94.2%, including in the 81-100% interval, the category was very high. The findings of the validation results from material experts and learning media become a reference that media products so that in making Geomat's Adventure it is feasible to be used.
CNN based efficient image classification system for smartphone device
Authors: Mishra Mayank , Choudhury Tanupriya , Sarkar Tanmay
Published: April 2021

In our work, we look to classify images that make their way into our smartphone devices through various social-media text-messaging platforms. We aim at classifying images into three broad categories: document-based images, quote-based images, and photographs. People, especially students, share many document-based images that include snapshots of essential emails, handwritten notes, articles, etc. Quote based images, consisting of birthday wishes, motivational messages, festival greetings, etc., are among the highly shared images on social media platforms. A significant share of images constitutes photographs of people, including group photographs, selfies, portraits, etc. We train various convolutional neural network (CNN) based models on our self-made dataset and compare their results to find our task’s optimum model.
Hotels In Objects of Adaptive Architecture: Design As A Means of Transferring The Image of The Past
Authors: BONDARENKO Iryna , HE Xingyi
Published: April 2021

The search for new solutions for identification, identity and individuality in the hotel industry has led to creation of hotels in buildings, the original function of which has been exhausted. Such an approach to modern adaptation of degraded objects is important both for their effective use and for successful development of urban environment. Hotels created in redesigned facilities are interesting because their design solution preserves evidence of previous function of structure and this fact forms a sense of time travel in the visitors’ view. An analytical study was carried out at the following hotel industry facilities: Hotel Emma (USA), which was renovated from the brewery; 21c Museum Hotels Oklahoma City (USA) located at the premises of the Ford Motor Company plant; Hotel Cycle (Japan) is located in the former marine warehouse, as well as Hotel Waterhouse (China) opened in the warehouse building and Hotel Alila Yangshuo (China) was created on the site of an abandoned sugar mill. The paper reveals design solutions that convey specifics of old buildings in their new function.
Effect of Curing Regimes on the Mechanical and Fresh Properties of Steel Fiber-Reinforced Concrete
Authors: ÖZTÜRK Oğuzhan , YENIDÜNYA Eren , KESKIN Ülkü Sultan
Published: April 2021

Properties of concrete are affected by its fabrication process such as preparation, mixing, placing, finishing and curing. Since curing process is the ultimate stage of the fresh state of concrete before it is put into service, it is of great significance that is needed to be strictly handled. In the present study, steel fiber reinforced concrete was investigated in terms of different curing regimes including precast technology and comparative analysis was performed. To this end, beams and cubes specimens were fabricated and cured under steam process to represent the applications of precast concrete industry. Findings were compared with the other types of curing regimes. Mechanical behaviors of specimens were evaluated along with their strength development and workability in the presence of steel fiber. Results indicated that adequate workability and mechanical properties were obtained for steam-cured specimens compared to other specimens produced with different curing regimes. However, production parameters such as mixture proportion and fiber dosage were more pronounced for low-strength concrete specimens compared to high strength steam cured concrete specimens.
Effect of tonic immobility induction on selected physiological parameters in Oryctolagus cuniculus f. Domesticus rabbits
Authors: WILCZYŃSKA ANNA , ZIĘTEK JERZY , TEODOROWSKI OLIWIER , WINIARCZYK STANISŁAW , ADASZEK ŁUKASZ
Published: April 2021

Tonic immobility (TI) is a phenomenon known as thanatosis or apparent death. The phenomenon can be induced in many ways. It occurs, for example, in the presence of a hazard, as a result of coercion through an unnatural body position or as a result of administration of certain medicines. TI is sometimes used in veterinary practice to tame patients. The aim of the study was to determine the effect of tonic immobility induction on selected physiological parameters in Oryctolagus cuniculus f. Domesticus rabbits. The study included 20 healthy rabbits, patients of a veterinary clinic, divided into two groups of 10 individuals. In the study group, TI was induced to conduct a standard clinical trial, while the control group were subjected to a standard clinical trial without TI. Heart rate, respiratory rate, pupil diameter and blood glucose concentration were measured in all animals. The measurements were performed three times: after the patient’s arrival at the clinic, after a detailed clinical examination in a normal or tonic immobility position and 15 minutes after the end of the examination. Additionally, the blood cortisol concentration was measured twice: on arrival at the clinic and at the end of the clinical trial. The results of the experiment show that miniature rabbits feel less stress during tonic immobility testing than rabbits in the standing position, and therefore this phenomenon should be used for taming animals.
Effect of L-shaped slots on scour around a bridge abutment
Authors: Saad Neveen Y. , Fattouh Ehab M. , Mokhtar M.
Published: April 2021

Local scour is the most significant cause of bridge failure. Providing a short abutment with a straight slot has proved to be an effective method for reducing scour at this abutment. In this study, laboratory experiments have been conducted to investigate the effectiveness of using L-shaped slots in comparison to the commonly used straight slot, on the scour reduction at short vertical-wall abutment under clear-water flow conditions and uniform bed materials. The slots were just above the bed and their diameters equal to half the abutment's length. The results illustrated that it is essential to have a straight slot in any combination of slots, as any configuration without one is inefficient. Also, a combination of a straight slot with one side slot in the middle of the abutment's width gives better performance than an individual straight slot, as it reduces the depth, area, and volume of the scour hole by about 32.6, 26.8, and 43.6% respectively, in comparison to 23.2, 20.7, and 35.3% for the straight slot alone.
Nutrient chemistry and eutrophication risk assessment of the Ghaghara river, India
Authors: Ravi Nirdesh Kumar , Srivastava Atul , Ram Kirpa , Jha Pawan Kumar
Published: April 2021

This study was carried out to evaluate the eutrophication risk associated with the nutrient flux from the Ghaghara river by using nutrient molar ratios and indicators for coastal eutrophication potential values. The concentration of ammonium (3–8 times), nitrate (3–10 times), and phosphate (3–4.5 times) in the Ghaghara river were higher than the reported value for the unpolluted rivers, indicating the contribution from the anthropogenic sources. The dissolved nutrients concentration showed significant seasonal variations in the Ghaghara river system. The specific yield of nitrate-N, phosphate-P, and dissolved silica-Si from the Ghaghara river were 0.49, 0.03 and 0.96 tons km−2 yr−1 respectively. The average molar ratio for dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN)/Dissolved inorganic Phosphate (DIP) was above 16:1, which indicated phosphate limitation in biological productivity. In contrast, an average molar ratio of Dissolved inorganic Silica (DSi)/DIN of 4.6 ± 4.4 favored the diatom growth in the Ghaghara river. The negative value of P-ICEP (-2.93 kg C. km−2day−1) indicated phosphate limitation in the Ghaghara river. The positive value of N-ICEP (1.71 kg C·km−2day−1) indicates an excess of nitrogen over silica transport from the Ghaghara river to the Ganga river, which can create an eutrophication problem in the Ganga river.
An ISaDE algorithm combined with support vector regression for estimating discharge coefficient of W-planform weirs
Authors: Emami Somayeh , Parsa Javad , Emami Hojjat , Abbaspour Akram
Published: April 2021

Various shapes of weirs, such as rectangular, trapezoidal, circular, and triangular plan forms, are used to adjust and measure the flow rate in irrigation networks. The discharge coefficient (Cd) of weirs, as the key hydraulic parameter, involves the combined effects of the geometric and hydraulic parameters. It is used to compute the flow rate over the weirs. For this purpose, a hybrid ISaDE-SVR method is proposed as a hybrid model to estimate the Cd of sharp-crested W-planform weirs. ISaDE is a high-performance algorithm among other optimization algorithms in estimating the nonlinear parameters in different phenomena. The ISaDE algorithm is used to improve the performance of SVR by finding optimal values for the SVR's parameters. To test and validate the proposed model, the experimental datasets of Kumar et al. and Ghodsian were utilized. Six different input scenarios are presented to estimate the Cd. Based on the modeling results, the proposed hybrid method estimates the Cd in terms of H/P, Lw/Wmc, and Lc/Wc. For the superior method, R2, RMSE, MAPE, and δ are obtained as 0.982, 0.006, 0.612, and 0.843, respectively. The amount of improvement in comparison with GMDH, ANFIS and SVR is 3.6%, 1.2% and 1.5% in terms of R2.
Effect of irrigation practices upon yield and fruit quality of four grapefruit (Citrus paradisiMac.) cultivars
Authors: Morianou G. , Ziogas V. , Kourgialas N. N. , Karatzas G. P.
Published: April 2021

Two strategies of irrigation were applied during the phase of fruit growth in 30-year-old grapefruit trees (Citrus paradisi Mac.) of four varieties (cv. Marsh SRA 8, cv. Shambar SRA 22, cv. Frost Marsh, cv. Ruby). For the first strategy (T1), the trees were irrigated every week at 100% crop evapotranspiration (ETc), while for the second strategy (T2) at 60% ETc. At harvest time, tree yield was estimated along with fruit quality and water productivity. T1 strategy significantly increased the tree yield, the fruit weight and the juice content. Although an increase in water productivity (crop yield/total water use) was achieved during the water stress experiment for three out of the four varieties. The main effect of the T2 strategy was a significant increase of qualitative (commercial and nutritional) attributes like total soluble solids (TSS), citric acid, ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) and phenolic content. In addition, strategy T2 increased the maturation index and the fruits had sweeter flavor for two varieties. These results lead to the conclusion that in mature grapefruit trees, optimal irrigation practice provided better fruit yield, while water stress practices favor the accumulation of specific nutritional elements and improve specific fruit quality parameters, especially for cv. Ruby.
Comparison of fruit quality traits of papaya (Carica papaya L.) genotypes from Shushufindi and La Joya de los Sachas, Ecuador
Authors: Vargas Tierras Yadira , Díaz Martínez Alejandra Evelyn , Congo Yépez Carlos Danilo , Tinoco Jaramillo Leider Anibar , Viera Arroyo William Fernando
Published: April 2021

In the northern region of the Ecuadorian Amazon, there are papaya genotypes with acceptable production and fruit quality traits; however, they are heterogeneous. The aim of this research was to evaluate papaya genotypes for the selection of individuals through fruit quality traits. The study was carried out at the Central Amazon Experimental Station of Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Agropecuarias, located in the canton La Joya de los Sachas, Orellana Province. A completely randomized design with a different number of observations according to the number of individuals per genotype was used. The recorded variables were: fruit weight (kg), pulp weight (kg), peel weight (kg), fruit diameter (cm), fruit length (cm), pulp thickness (cm), fruit firmness (kg-f), pH, total soluble solids (°Bx), titratable acidity, and flavor ratio. Data were subjected to one-way analysis of variance, mean comparison tests (Tukey 95%) for dendrograms, correlation matrix, and Biplot graphs. Results showed individuals with high production (more than 50 fruits/plant) and fruits with market demanded traits for fresh consumption (fruit weight between 0.2 and ≥ 2.0 kg, and soluble solids content ≥ 11.5 °Bx). In addition, ten elite individuals were identified as they meet the dual production and fruit quality traits, and must be considered for future breeding programmes.
Smartphone-Based Passive Sensing for Behavioral and Physical Monitoring in Free-Life Conditions: Technical Usability Study
Authors: Tonti Simone , Marzolini Brunella , Bulgheroni Maria
Published: April 2021

Background

Smartphone use is widely spreading in society. Their embedded functions and sensors may play an important role in therapy monitoring and planning. However, the use of smartphones for intrapersonal behavioral and physical monitoring is not yet fully supported by adequate studies addressing technical reliability and acceptance.

Objective

The objective of this paper is to identify and discuss technical issues that may impact on the wide use of smartphones as clinical monitoring tools. The focus is on the quality of the data and transparency of the acquisition process.

Methods

QuantifyMyPerson is a platform for continuous monitoring of smartphone use and embedded sensors data. The platform consists of an app for data acquisition, a backend cloud server for data storage and processing, and a web-based dashboard for data management and visualization. The data processing aims to extract meaningful features for the description of daily life such as phone status, calls, app use, GPS, and accelerometer data. A total of health subjects installed the app on their smartphones, running it for 7 months. The acquired data were analyzed to assess impact on smartphone performance (ie, battery consumption and anomalies in functioning) and data integrity. Relevance of the selected features in describing changes in daily life was assessed through the computation of a k-nearest neighbors global anomaly score to detect days that differ from others.

Results

The effectiveness of smartphone-based monitoring depends on the acceptability and interoperability of the system as user retention and data integrity are key aspects. Acceptability was confirmed by the full transparency of the app and the absence of any conflicts with daily smartphone use. The only perceived issue was the battery consumption even though the trend of battery drain with and without the app running was comparable. Regarding interoperability, the app was successfully installed and run on several Android brands. The study shows that some smartphone manufacturers implement power-saving policies not allowing continuous sensor data acquisition and impacting integrity. Data integrity was 96% on smartphones whose power-saving policies do not impact the embedded sensor management and 84% overall.

Conclusions

The main technological barriers to continuous behavioral and physical monitoring (ie, battery consumption and power-saving policies of manufacturers) may be overcome. Battery consumption increase is mainly due to GPS triangulation and may be limited, while data missing because of power-saving policies are related only to periods of nonuse of the phone since the embedded sensors are reactivated by any smartphone event. Overall, smartphone-based passive sensing is fully feasible and scalable despite the Android market fragmentation.
Effectiveness of Distance Technology in Promoting Physical Activity in Cardiovascular Disease Rehabilitation: Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial, A Pilot Study
Authors: Hakala Sanna , Kivistö Heikki , Paajanen Teemu , Kankainen Annaliisa , Anttila Marjo-Riitta , Heinonen Ari , Sjögren Tuulikki
Published: April 2021

Background

Physical activity is beneficial for cardiovascular rehabilitation. Digitalization suggests using technology in the promotion of physical activity and lifestyle changes. The effectiveness of distance technology interventions has previously been found to be similar to that of conventional treatment, but the added value of the technology has not been frequently studied.

Objective

The aim of this pilot study was to investigate whether additional distance technology intervention is more effective in promoting physical activity than non-technology–based treatment in 12 months of cardiac rehabilitation.

Methods

The cardiovascular disease rehabilitation intervention consisted of three 5-day inpatient periods in a rehabilitation center and two 6-month self-exercise periods at home in between. Participants were recruited from among cardiac patients who attended the rehabilitation program and were cluster-randomized into unblinded groups: conventional rehabilitation control clusters (n=3) and similar rehabilitation with additional distance technology experimental group clusters (n=3). Experimental groups used Fitbit Charge HR for self-monitoring, and they set goals and reported their activity using Movendos mCoach, through which they received monthly automated and in-person feedback. Physical activity outcomes for all participants were measured using the Fitbit Zip accelerometer and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire.

Results

During the first 6 months, the experimental group (n=29) engaged in light physical activity more often than the control group (n=30; mean difference [MD] 324.2 minutes per week, 95% CI 77.4 to 571.0; P=.01). There were no group differences in the duration of moderate to vigorous physical activity (MD 12.6 minutes per week, 95% CI –90.5 to 115.7; P=.82) or steps per day (MD 1084.0, 95% CI –585.0 to 2752.9; P=.20). During the following 6 months, no differences between the groups were observed in light physical activity (MD –87.9 minutes per week, 95% CI –379.2 to 203.3; P=.54), moderate to vigorous physical activity (MD 70.9 minutes per week, 95% CI –75.7 to 217.6; P=.33), or steps per day (MD 867.1, 95% CI –2099.6 to 3833.9; P=.55).

Conclusions

The use of additional distance technology increased the duration of light physical activity at the beginning of cardiac rehabilitation (for the first 6 months), but statistically significant differences were not observed between the two groups for moderate or vigorous physical activity or steps per day for both 6-month self-exercise periods.

Trial Registration

ISRCTN Registry ISRCTN61225589; https://doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN61225589
Development of a Mobile App to Improve Numeracy Skills of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: Participatory Design and Usability Study
Authors: Ntalindwa Theoneste , Nduwingoma Mathias , Karangwa Evariste , Rashid Soron Tanjir , Uworwabayeho Alphonse , Uwineza Annette
Published: April 2021

Background

The use of information and communication technologies is transforming the lives of millions of people including children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, the process of developing a user-friendly and effective mobile app needs to follow a complex standard protocol and culture-sensitive customization, and involves multiple sectors. This complex work becomes even more challenging when considering children with ASD in low- and middle-income countries as the users.

Objective

This study aimed to design and develop a more intuitive mobile app to improve numeracy skills of children with ASD in Rwanda and evaluate the usability of the app.

Methods

A participatory design approach was utilized in this study in which 40 children with ASD, 5 teachers, and 10 parents of children with ASD participated in focus group discussions (FGDs) and usability testing. A narrative literature review was performed to explore existing mobile apps and compare previous studies to design the questions for FGD and facilitate a framework for designing the app. The agile methodology was used to develop the mobile app, and the heuristics evaluation method was used to test and evaluate the usability of the initial version of the app to improve its functionalities. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed following the guidelines of the qualitative narrative analysis (QNA) method.

Results

During the FGDs the respondents shared their need for a mobile app in teaching and learning numeracy for children with ASD and pointed to possibilities of integrating the mobile app into existing curriculum. Ten themes emerged from the FGDs and exercise of developing the mobile app. The themes were related to (1) teaching and learning numeracy for children with ASD, (2) planning and development of a mobile app for a person with ASD, (3) testing a mobile app, (4) strength of the developed app against the existing ones, (5) behavioral maintenance and relapse prevention, (6) possibilities to integrate the mobile app into the existing curriculum, (7) data protection for users, (8) social implications, (9) challenges in Rwanda, and (10) focus on future.

Conclusions

The community plays an important role in the planning, development, and evaluation of a mobile app for children with ASD. In this study, inputs from teachers and parents resulted in an optimally designed mobile app that can improve numeracy skills in children diagnosed with ASD to support the implementation of competency-based curriculum in Rwanda.