bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Smoking on Contralateral Suppression of Distortion Product Oto Acoustic Emissions (DPOAEs)
Authors: Nadella Sindhuja
Published: September 2021

The present study compared the contralateral suppression and the amplitude of distortion product otoacoutsic emissions (DPOAEs) between smokers and non-smokers to determine the influence of smoking. Thirty smokers and thirty non-smokers within the age range of 18-40 years with a normal hearing sensitivity were considered for the study. For both the groups, DPOAEs were measured and the efferent auditory system functioning was measured by presenting the white noise of 50 dB HL to the contralateral side, while recording the DPOAEs. There was no significant effect of age on the amplitude of DPOAEs in both the groups. However, there were significant differences in the amplitude of DPOAEs between smokers and non-smokers. The amount of suppression and DPOAE amplitude were reduced in smokers when compared to non-smokers. The study found no significant correlation between the amount of smoking and amount of suppression between smokers and non-smokers. However, there were significant correlations between the amount of smoking and DPOAE at low and mid frequencies between smokers and non-smokers. Therefore, the present study highlights the increased damage to the efferent auditory system risk and the smoking ill-effects on the efferent auditory system.
Epigenetic Clock, Circadian Rhythms and Cell Aging
Authors: Samoilova Ekaterina , Belopasov Vladimir , Ekusheva Evgenia , Zhang Chao , Troitskiy Alexander , Baklaushev Vladimir
Published: September 2021

This review summarizes current understanding of the interaction between circadian rhythms of gene expression and epigenetic clocks characterized by the specific profile of DNA methylation in CpG-islands which mirror the chronological age of individual cells and the entire organism. Basic mechanisms of regulation for circadian genes CLOCK- BMAL1 as well as downstream clock-controlled genes (ССG) are also discussed here. It has been shown that circadian rhythms operate by finely tuned regulation of transcription and rely on various epigenetic mechanisms including activation of enhancers / suppressors, acetylation / deacetylation of histones and other proteins as well as DNA methylation. Overall, up to 20% of all genes expressed by the cell are subject to expression oscillations associated with circadian rhythms. Also included in the review is a brief list of genes involved in the regulation of circadian rhythms, along with genes important for metabolic control, aging, and oncogenesis. Knocking out some of them (for example, Sirt1) accelerates the aging process, while overexpression of Sirt1, on the contrary, protects against age-related changes. Circadian regulators control a number of genes that activate the cell cycle (Wee1, c-Myc, p20, p21, and Cyclin D1) and regulate histone modification and DNA methylation. Approaches for determining the epigenetic age from methylation profiles across CpG islands in individual cells are described. DNA methylation, which characterizes the function of the epigenetic clock, appears to link together such key biological processes as regeneration and functioning of stem cells, aging and malignant transformation. Finally, main features of adult stem cell aging in stem cell niches and current possibilities for modulating the epigenetic clock as part of antiaging therapy are discussed.
Extending a Large-scale Model to Better Represent Water Resources without Increasing the Model Complexity
Authors: Horan Robyn , Rickards Nathan J. , Kaelin Alexandra , Baron Helen E. , Thomas Thomas , Keller Virginie D.J. , Mishra Prabhas K. , Nema Manish K. , Muddu‬ Sekhar , Garg Kaushal K. , Pathak Rishi , Houghton-Carr Helen A. , Dixon Harry , Jain Sharad K. , Rees Gwyn
Published: September 2021

A robust hydrological assessment is challenging in regions where human interference, within all aspects of the hydrological system, significantly alters the flow regime of rivers. The challenge was to extend a large-scale water resources model, GWAVA, to better represent water resources without increasing the model complexity. A groundwater and a regulated reservoir routine were incorporated into GWAVA using modifications of the existing AMBHAS-1D and Hanasaki methodologies, respectively. The groundwater routine can be varied in complexity when sufficient input data is available but fundamentally is driven by three input parameters. The reservoir routine was extended to account for the presence of large, regulated reservoirs using two calibratable parameters. The additional groundwater processes and reservoir regulation was tested in two highly anthropogenically influenced basins in India: the Cauvery and Narmada. The inclusion of the revised groundwater routine improved the simulation of streamflow in the headwater catchments and was successful in improving the representation of the baseflow component. In addition, the model was able to produce a time series of daily groundwater levels, recharge to groundwater and groundwater abstraction. The regulated reservoir routine improved the simulation of streamflow in catchments downstream of major reservoirs, where the streamflow was largely reflective of reservoir releases, when calibrated using downstream observed streamflow records. The model was able to provide a more robust representation of the annual volume and daily outflow released from the major reservoirs and simulate the major reservoir storages adequately. The addition of one-dimensional groundwater processes and a regulated reservoir routine proved successful in improving the model performance and traceability of water balance components, without excessively increasing the model complexity and input data requirements.
Transformation: Toward a People’s Democracy
Authors: Pharr Suzanne
Published: September 2021

Transformation: Toward a People’s Democracy is a movement book for anyone working for an expansive vision of social justice. Here Suzanne Pharr offers a clear and compelling vision for action amid social and political turmoil. Drawing on decades of work on the frontlines of social movements, Pharr’s writings create a real-time chronicle of on-the-ground organizing and the historical significance of struggles for freedom and democracy. Pharr, a Southern queer feminist and anti-racist organizer, explores the pitfalls and the strengths within social justice movements. Her writings reflect the interchange of ideas and the collective work of thinkers and organizers who led activists to lift up the liberation of gender and sexuality, to fight both domestic and state violence, to advance anti-racist strategies and the leadership of people of color, to work against the advancement of rapacious capitalism, and to confront the rise of the Right in all of its forms. Transformation examines not just what happened but how it happened in the battles against numerous forms of oppression including economic injustice, racism, sexism, heterosexism, transphobia, and nationalism. Taken together, Pharr’s writings give activists and scholars a way to understand decades of attacks on civil rights while offering a roadmap that shows the way toward a people’s democracy where everyone has full participation, voice, a fair share of the benefits, justice, and dignity. Suzanne Pharr is an organizer and political strategist who has spent her adult life working to build a broad-based, multi-racial, multi-issued movement for social and economic justice in the United States. She founded the Women’s Project in Arkansas in 1981, was a co-founder of Southerners on New Ground in 1984, and was director of the Highlander Center from 1999 to 2004. After six decades of working across movements, Pharr now thinks of herself as a political handywoman, engaging with activists of diverse races, genders, sexual identities, classes, ages, abilities, and cultures to develop strategies for justice and equality.
Classification of production factors of foundry production
Authors: Lazarenkov A. M.
Published: September 2021

The classification of production factors of working conditions at the workplaces of the main equipment used in the foundry is given. This classification is developed on the basis of the results of the conducted research and based on the materials given in the domestic and foreign literature.

This allows us to evaluate the technological processes and equipment used in the design and reconstruction of foundries (sections) to ensure the most favorable working conditions.
Improvement of the technological process of manufacturing bearing grades of steel at the 370/150 mill.
Authors: Puteev V. S. , Savchenko S. A. , Pankovets I. A. , Voznaja V. I. , Astapenko I. V.
Published: September 2021

The actual problem of obtaining long products from bearing steel grades with specified microstructure characteristics is considered. The analysis of the capabilities of the existing equipment – a heating furnace and a rolling mill 370/150 of OJSC “BSW – Management Company of the Holding “BMC” was carried out in order to introduce technical measures aimed at reducing carbide heterogeneity in products made of bearing steel grades on the example of steel grade 100Cr6.

The influence of different modes of preliminary thermal preparation of continuously cast billets from bearing steel grades on the carbide inhomogeneity in the finished rolling is studied. According to the results of the research, the optimal mode of heat treatment of a continuously cast billet was determined, which allows to produce rolled products that meet the highest requirements of consumers.
Thermodynamics of solid and liquid aluminium
Authors: Marukovich E. I. , Stetsenko V. Yu. , Stetsenko A. V.
Published: September 2021

Based on thermodynamic calculations, it is shown that in the temperature range of 298–1273 K, heating and cooling of aluminum are thermodynamically equilibrium processes. When aluminum is heated, the molar volume energy of Gibbs decreases and the molar boundary energy of nanocrystals increases. When aluminum is cooled, the molar volume energy of Gibbs increases and the molar boundary energy of nanocrystals decreases. Liquid aluminum is a nanostructured system. Dendritic microcrystals are formed from nanocrystals. They play a large role in the processes of changing the structure of aluminum during its heating and cooling.
Fullerenes and prospects of their use in foundry and metallurgical production
Authors: Vitiaz P. A. , Svidunovich N. A. , Kuis D. V. , Nikalaichyk Yu. A. , Rovin S. I.
Published: September 2021

The article is devoted to a special nanostructured form of carbon – fullerenes; the discovery of which became one of the most important events in the field of physics in the 80s of the last century. The article discusses the issues of obtaining and using fullerenes and other nanostructured materials; including hybrid ones; in foundry and metallurgical production: for modifying casting alloys; binders and auxiliary molding materials; for obtaining ceramic and hybrid nanocomposites; and for other purposes. It also provides information on the creation and operation of the world’s leading research centers specializing in the synthesis and application of nanomaterials in metallurgy and foundry.
Retos de los docentes universitarios para el diseño de experiencias virtuales educativas
Authors: Navarro Fernández Ricardo , López Jurado Manuel Renato , Caycho Damaso Gloria
Published: September 2021

Como respuesta a la emergencia sanitaria, las instituciones de educación superior han tenido que migrar forzosamente a la virtualidad. Esto ha impactado en los agentes del entorno educativo, tanto en la enseñanza como en el aprendizaje. Por esta razón, en este artículo se analizarán las características particulares de la educación virtual y los principios de la enseñanza en este contexto. Asimismo, se describirán propuestas para diseñar experiencias educativas virtuales considerando las teorías motivacionales, del aprendizaje, y el diseño instruccional aplicado a la educación virtual. En esta misma línea, se discuten los retos que impone la pandemia para la educación universitaria y se proponen líneas de acción para la creación de experiencias educativas no presenciales. Se concluye que existe una necesidad imperante de capacitar a los profesores de tal manera que puedan usar las distintas herramientas digitales a su disposición y reconocer la unicidad de la educación virtual en contraposición a las clases tradicionales.
Failure Modes and Root-Cause Analyses of Advanced Drill-Collar Connections
Authors: Du Michael H. , Li Ke , Song Fei , Li Haoming , Smith David L. , Blackman Wesley
Published: September 2021

Advanced drill-collar connections have been developed with 10 times extended fatigue life compared with the corresponding replaced connections. More than 4,000 advanced connections have been run in North America. Although these connections have demonstrated substantial fatigue-strength improvement in operation, some failures have occurred. Multiple failed connection samples have been retrieved and analyzed for their failure modes and the root causes.

In the failure analyses, manufacturing data were reviewed to identify any possible discrepancies between design specifications and manufactured components. The field run data were analyzed for the loading histories of the connections. The downhole fluid properties were also reviewed to identify their possible effects on the connection performances. The bottomhole assemblies (BHAs) were numerically analyzed to determine the loading distributions. The failed connection samples were physically processed and inspected in a metallurgical laboratory. Based on the combined numerical and testing analyses, the conclusions on the failure modes and the root causes were drawn.

It was found that the primary failure mode for these connections was fatigue. The root causes for the fatigue failures can be divided into two categories: manufacturing causes and operational causes. Among the manufacturing failure causes, incorrect cold rolling is the primary one. The operation-related failures were mainly caused by overloading.

Through failure mode and root-cause analyses, the manufacturing and operational related risks for the advanced drill-collar connections were mitigated accordingly. It therefore greatly improved the quality assurance of the advanced connections.
Drilling-Campaign Optimization Using Sequential Information and Policy Analytics
Authors: Morosov André Luís , Bratvold Reidar Brumer
Published: September 2021

Optimally designed drilling campaigns are essential for improving oil recovery and value creation. They are required at different stages of the hydrocarbon-field life cycle, including exploration, appraisal, development, and infill. A significant fraction of the revenue risk comes from geological uncertainty, and for this reason, subsurface teams are frequently responsible for optimizing campaign parameters such as the number of wells, the corresponding locations, and the drilling sequence. Companies use the information and learning from drilled wells to adapt the remainder of the campaign, but classical optimization methods do not account for such learning and flexibility over time. Accounting for sequential geological information acquisition and decision making in the optimization of drilling campaigns adds value to the project.

We propose a method to optimize drilling campaigns under geological uncertainty by using a sequential-decision model to obtain the optimal drilling policy and applying analytics over the policy to obtain the optimal number of wells and corresponding locations. The novel contribution of policy analytics provides better access to information within the complex data structure of the optimal policy, providing decision support for different decision criteria.

The method is demonstrated in two different cases. The first case considers a set of eight candidate wells on predefined locations, mimicking the situation where the method is used after a prior subsurface optimization. The second case considers a set of 12 candidate wells regularly scattered in the same area and uses the method as the first optimization approach to filter out less-attractive regions. Exploiting the geological information on a well-by-well basis improved the expected campaign value by 65% in the first case and by 183% in the second case. The value of spatial geological information and value of flexibility from having more drilling candidates are two byproducts of the method application.
Modeling of Cutting Rock: From PDC Cutter to PDC Bit—Modeling of PDC Bit
Authors: Chen Pengju , Miska Stefan , Yu Mengjiao , Ozbayoglu Evren
Published: September 2021

In this paper, we integrated our polycrystalline diamond compact (PDC) cutter model (Chen et al. 2021) into a PDC bit model that can predict the weight on bit (WOB), torque on bit (TOB), and imbalanced side force on a bit under given drilling conditions. We first proposed a method to determine the actual cutting plane and depth of cut of each cutter on a PDC bit. Once the two parameters for each cutter are determined, the cutter model can then be applied to calculate the cutting force of each cutter. The final bit force and moment (i.e., WOB, TOB, and imbalanced side force) are calculated as the resultant force and moment of cutting forces of all cutters.

The PDC bit model in this paper considers all bit design parameters, including bit matrix geometry, blade profile, cutter layout, and the inclination of each cutter. Furthermore, the bit model also considers some bottomhole assembly (BHA) parameters (e.g., bit tilt angle, location of first fulcrum point, and tool face/steering plane angle), which allows the bit model to simulate a bit under different drilling modes. The bit model is also validated by published test data and field applications. Finally, case studies are conducted, and the influence of bottomhole stresses, BHA parameters, and drilling modes on bit force and moment are discussed. A field application of the bit model is also provided. The bit model can be directly used for PDC bit design and simulation. In fact, this paper presents a general way to integrate a cutter model into a PDC bit model. Readers are also encouraged to apply this method to integrate their own cutter model into a PDC bit model.
Application of multi hydrochemical indices for spatial groundwater quality assessment: Ziway Lake Basin of the Ethiopian Rift Valley
Authors: Mechal Abraham , Shube Hassen , Rango Tewodros , Walraevens Kristine , Birk Steffen
Published: September 2021

The Ethiopian Rift Valley (ERV), which is characterized by arid and semi-arid climate, groundwater is the most important water resource used for drinking and irrigation purposes. However, in the region people are suffering from severe water scarcity exacerbated by climate effect. Besides water availability, endemic water quality issues are critical and affect the suitability of the water and human health risks. The present study evaluates the suitability of groundwater for drinking and agricultural purposes in the Ziway Lake Basin (ZLB) of the ERV. Groundwater used for drinking contains multiple inorganic contaminants in levels that surpass the World Health Organization recommended limits. The most frequent of these violations were for Na+, K+, HCO3-, F- and few samples for Mn, As, U, Pb and Mo. The modeled Drinking Water Quality Index (DWQI) values of the groundwater show wide variation ranging from 12.7 (Excellent category) to 714 (Unsuitable category) with mean value of 94. Likewise, Irrigation Water Quality Index (IWQI) computed by considering EC, SAR, Na%, RSC and PI of the groundwater vary from 13.2 to 520 with mean value of 106. Both DWQI and IWQI value suggest that groundwater is generally of Excellent quality for drinking and irrigation use in the headwater regions of the ZLB and progressively becomes extremely Unsuitable towards the rift floor. The exceptionally high DWQI values to the west of Lake Ziway is mainly associated with the co-occurrence of multiple toxic elements from a groundwater from the Quaternary sediments and rhyolitic volcanic aquifers.
Effect Different Donors And Acceptors On Quantum Chemical Parameters of Zigzag Graphene Nanoribbon
Authors: Shareefi Nidhal Mohammed Al , Moslem Rabab Abdulzahrah , Abbood Hamid Ibrahim
Published: September 2021

Exchange-correlation functional B3LYP with standard 6-31G basis sets was carried out for DFT calculations of pure zigzag GNR and two of donor-GNR-acceptor structures. The results showed good relax was obtained for studied structures. Pure zigzag GNR has small energy gap and it was reduced by adding donors and acceptors to the ribbon depending on the type of both donor and acceptor. Donor-GNRs-Acceptor have low value of global electrochemical hardness and high electronic softness than those for pure GNR, an electron can be easily transfer from valence to conduction band. Also, the electrophilic index for GNR in case of presence of donors and acceptors is greater than that for pure GNR, therefore, donor-GNRs-acceptor can easily interact with surrounding species in comparison with pure GNR. Generally, 3-D materials was constructed based on 2-D graphene can be used for different electronic applications.
Choice of Levels in Selective Neck Dissection and Its Impact On Regional Control and Survival in 661 Patients With Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Bertlich Mattis , Zeller Nina , Freytag Saskia , Weiss Bernhard G. , Canis Martin , Haubner Frank , Ihler Friedrich , Spiegel Jennifer L.
Published: September 2021

Background: Selective Neck Dissection (SND) is the surgical treatment of choice in suspected or manifest nodal positive squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (HNSCC). For SND to be successful, treated levels should be selected accordingly. Aim of this study was to identify neck dissection levels that had an impact on the individual prognosis.Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of SND as part of primary treatment of HNSCC. Overall survival (OS) and regional control rates (RCR) were calculated for all patients.Results: 661 patients with HNSCC were included, 644 underwent ipsilateral and 319 contralateral SND. Average follow up was 78.9 ± 106.4 months. 67 (10.1%) patients eventually developed nodal recurrence. Tumor sites were oral cavity (135), oropharynx (179), hypopharynx (118) and larynx (229). Tumor categories pT1 – pT4a, and all clinical and pathological nodal categories were included. Multivariate analysis indicated improved OS rates for patients undergoing SND in ipsilateral levels I and V as well as level III contralaterally. Analysis for tumor origin showed that SND in ipsilateral level I showed a significantly improved OS in HNSCC of the oral cavity.Conclusion: In HNSCC of the oral cavity, ipsilateral level I needs to be included when performing SND.
Eradicating Little Fire Ants (Wasmannia Auropunctata) from the Island of Kaua`I, Hawai`I: Process, Challenges, and Results to Date
Authors: Montgomery Michelle , Vanderwoude Casper , Lynch Jasmyn , Keanini Tiffani , Kaneshige Craig
Published: September 2021

First detected on the Island of Kauai in 1999, the little fire ant (Wasmannia auropunctata) has persisted despite early attempts at eradication by state agencies. A multi-agency collaboration was formed in 2011 to develop and implement a two-phase eradication plan. The infestation was delimited to 4.02 ha of rural residences and steep coastline habitat. Treatments regimens were divided between easily accessible infested areas (Phase I) and steep areas requiring rope safety systems (Phase II). The eradication plan included ground and arboreal treatment technologies and long-term post-treatment monitoring. Treatments consisted of broadcasting baits containing s-methoprene (0.25% a.i.), indocaxarb (0.18% a.i), or hydramethylnon (0.73% a.i.) eight times over the course of 12 months. Treatments effectively reduced the population to below detectable levels throughout much of the treatment area, however isolated remnant colonies were detected as recently as September 2019. Remnant colonies were associated with specific site features known to be difficult to treat, such as tall palm trees and large mulch piles. On one occasion, in 2017, two little fire ant detections were confirmed outside of the original treatment area, where no little fire ants had been detected before; highlighting the ability for little fire ants to remain undetected for many years. Current results stress the importance of long-term commitment to post-treatment monitoring and expanded surveys. We recommend development and incorporation of novel detection methods which could increase accuracy and improve efficiency of monitoring and detection surveys.
Universe: the dynamics of the minimum and maximum expansion states
Authors: Petrakis Sócrates
Published: September 2021

Two hypotheses stand out in describing the evolution of the Universe. The predominant one predicts that the current expansion began at a certain instant and will not preserve any variation of energy that performs work; apparent flat Universe (Ω = 1) is advocated by relativistic calculations and observational data, with an end or thermal death at its maximum expansion (3D Space). The other hypothesis considers that the Universe is cyclical (always alternating phases of expansion and contraction). This proposal aims to demonstrate that both hypotheses can be correct by not being distinct, but complementary. Supported by the immutability of physical laws, analyses of concepts such as space, mass, energy, gravity, spin, and entropy define an exclusive presence of 1D Space in the minimum and maximum expansion states of the Universe. With our 3D Space Universe created and existing between these extreme states, every dynamic is outlined and completes the usual relativity. More objectively, the process that describes the formation of mass through energy conversion is defined. The concept of complete rest energy (1D Space) was able to be applied, demonstrating that the complete evolution of the Universe is spatially dynamic in a perpetual time dimension, always recreating our Universe.
Failure of Rock Slopes With Intermittent Joints: Failure Process and Stability Calculation Models
Authors: Zhou Zihan , Shen Yanjun , Chen Zhonghui
Published: September 2021

Rock slopes with intermittent joints in open-pit mines are complex geological bodies composed of intact rock and discontinuous structural planes, and their stability analysis are necessary for mine disaster prevention. In this study, a series of base friction tests were performed to determine the failure process and displacement field evolution of rock slopes with intermittent joints using the speckle technique of a noncontact measurement system. Next, stability calculation models of the slopes were established from the energy perspective using the plastic limit analysis theory, and the effects of the joint inclination angle and coalescence coefficient of rock bridges on the slope stability were evaluated. The four main conclusions are as follows. (1) The failure of rock slopes with intermittent joints shows the feature of collapse-lower traction-upper push. (2) Based on the failure modes of rock bridges in slopes, the failure of rock slopes with intermittent joints could be divided into three types: tensile coalescence (Type A), shear coalescence (Type B), and tensile–shear coalescence (Type C). (3) Among the three slope types, the stability of the Type A slope is significantly influenced by rock cohesion, whereas that the Type B slope is significantly influenced by joint cohesion. The stability of the Type C slope is significantly influenced by the joint inclination angle and joint friction angle. (4) The local-stable slope is unstable while the first through-tensile crack in the zone of the potential sliding body higher than the critical instability height appeared. This study guides the stability evaluation and instability prediction of jointed rock slopes in open-pit mines.
Synthesis and Characterization of Solid-state Fe-exchanged Nano-bentonite and Evaluation of Methyl Orange Adsorption
Authors: Hajipour Nahid , Ghorbanpour Mohammad , Safajou-Jahankhanemlou Majid
Published: September 2021

A new adsorbent was synthesized using ion-exchange between iron salts and bentonite modified with acetyl trimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) in the solid phase. Ion exchange was performed in the solid-state at a temperature of 100 ° C for 2 min. Various analyzes such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), porosity measurement (BET), infrared Fourier transform (FT-IR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray energy diffraction (EDX), and thermal weighing (TGA) were used to characterize the synthesized nano-adsorbents. Under optimal conditions (pH = 7, time 60 min, concentration of dye solution 150 ppm, and amount of nano-adsorbent 0.75 g / l), the modified nano-adsorbent absorbed 73% of the methyl orange (MO) dye. Adsorption isotherm studies and kinetic model showed that the pseudo-second-order model and Langmuir equation agree with the obtained results. After three reductions of the modified nano-adsorbent in the photo-Fenton process, the dye absorption percentage was 69.50%.
Reflecting on Public Behavior With Artificial Intelligence-assisted Detection of Face Mask Wearing During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Seresirikachorn Kasem , Ruamviboonsuk Paisan , Soonthornworasiri Ngamphol , Singhanetr Panisa , Kaothanthong Natsuda , Theeramunkong Thanaruk
Published: September 2021

Background: COVID-19 has created health and socioeconomic damage worldwide, and face masks are a low-cost but effective method of preventing transmission of this disease. Artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted systems can come into play to help visualize the public’s awareness of mask wearing and gain a better picture of whether there is adequate practice of protection during the outbreak. We reported the rate of face mask wearing by the general public using the artificial intelligence-assisted face mask detector, AiMASK.Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted between January 23 and April 22, 2021 in over 32 districts in Bangkok, Thailand. After the introduction of AiMASK, development and internal validation were performed, and average accuracy of 97.8% was found. Data were classified into a protected group (correct face mask wearing) and an unprotected group (incorrect or non-mask wearing). We analyzed the association between factors affecting the unprotected group using univariate logistic regression analysis.Results: No significant difference was found between results from human graders and those of AiMASK using two proportion Z test (p=0.74). AiMASK detected a total of 1,124,524 people, the majority of whom were in the protected group (95.98%). The unprotected group consisted of 2.06% who practised incorrect mask-wearing, and the other 1.96% were those who did not wear masks. A moderate negative correlation was found between the number of COVID-19 patients and the proportion of unprotected people (r= -0.507, p<0.001). People were 1.15 times more likely to be in the unprotected group during the holidays and in the evening than on working days and in the morning (OR=1.15, 95% CI 1.13-1.17, p<0.001). Districts in the city center were 1.31 times more likely to have higher proportions of unprotected individuals than suburban districts (OR=1.31, 95% CI 1.28-1.34, p<0.001). Conclusions: AiMASK was as effective as human graders in detecting face mask wearing. The prevailing number of COVID-19 infections affected people’s mask-wearing behavior, and half of the unprotected group were those who wore masks incorrectly. Public policies should communicate the importance of wearing masks consistently throughout the day and during holidays as well as providing instructions for effective mask wearing to prevent virus transmission.
A Survey of Globodera Rostochiensis on Potato Crops in Himachal Pradesh; Occurrence and Detection.
Authors: Pathania Ashvika , Dutta Joydeep , Garg Shashank
Published: September 2021

A survey was carried out to estimate the frequency and occurrence of potato cyst nematode (PCN) in potato cultivating fields in different districts of Himachal Pradesh. A total of 109 composite soil samples were collected from 5 districts of Himachal Pradesh, India. Nematode cysts were extracted from the soil using standard procedure. The population density and percentage of occurrence of cyst nematode were calculated. According to the results district, Mandi had the highest PCN cyst population density, and the percentage of occurrence is 100%. District Kangra had the least PCN cyst population density and the percentage of occurrence is 66.6%. This survey showed the occurrence Globodera rostochiensis district-wise. The collected cysts were identified by morphological and molecular techniques, up to species level based on nucleotide homology and phylogenetic analysis. According to morphometrics distance between the vulva and anus is very less (65.69 ±22.2) µm. The outcome sequences are showed 95-99.05% similarity with sequence I.D KJ636272.1 from the Netherlands. This survey indicates that PCN Globodera rostochiensis were widely distributed in the potato cultivating fields of Himachal Pradesh. The present study helped determine the distribution of PCN in the soil and species dominance in particular areas. Hence, it helps design different strategies against PCN management.
Pilot Scale Wastewater Treatment Unit Using Fresnel Lens Solar Concentrator
Authors: Kommagoni Vinay , Devarakonda Sai Mahesh , Bhukya Jemima Bai , Vistarakula Manoj Kumar , Mishra Shilpa
Published: September 2021

Many municipalities across the world confront a major problem with waste water treatment. However, Tier-1 and Tier-2 cities have good infrastructure to treat the wastewater, but most of the villages are still facing the problem, because of less resources, the untreated waste water is left to flow on the ground, while travelling it merges with the fresh water bodies, and results in surface and ground water pollution in nearby villages. The devlopment of a pilot size waste water treatment system that efficiently produces water by evaporation and condensation in conjunction with a Fresnel lens solar concentrator is discussed and analysed in this experimental investigation.. Solar radiation setup for waste water treatment consists of Fresnel lens which help in achieving the temperature up to 400oC and then wastewater is being converted into vapour form due to this solar radiation. The evaporated vapour condenses on the surface of the glass and collects in a collecting tank. When compared to a typical wastewater treatment plant, this environmental friendly and sustainable procedure removes organic and bacteriological contaminants from wastewater and, moreover, this chemical-free treatment converts wastewater into reusable form of water with less sludge. The main advantage of this treatment method is, simple to construct and no skilled manpower is required to operate it. Since solar radiation is used as a power source to achieve high temperature therefore, no external power source is required to operate this unit. Results indicate that strength of waste water is reduced by 87%, TDS reduced by 82% as compared to sewage water and Ca, Mg, N, P, Chlorides and Sulphates are reduced by 87%, 91%, 66%, 42%, 92% and 80% respectively. However, the main challenge of this method is low output, but can be improved by various techniques mentioned in the study.
Assessing the Impact of Floods Disaster on Soil Erosion Risk Based on the RUSLE-GloSEM Approach in Western Iran
Authors: Akbari Morteza , Neamatollahi Ehsan , Memarian Hadi , Noughani Mohammad Alizadeh
Published: September 2021

Floods cause great damage to ecosystems and are among the main agents of soil erosion. Given the importance of soils for the functioning of ecosystems and development and improvement of bio-economic conditions, the risk and rate of soil erosion was assessed using the RUSLE model in Iran’s Lorestan province before and after a period of major floods in late 2018 and early 2019. Furthermore, soil erosion was calculated for current and future conditions based on the Global Soil Erosion Modeling Database (GloSEM). The results showed that agricultural development and land use change are the main causes of land degradation in the southern and central parts of the study area. The impact of floods was also significant since our evaluations showed that soil erosion increased from 4.12 t ha-1 yr-1 before the floods to 10.93 t ha-1 yr-1 afterwards. Field surveying using 64 ground control points determined that erodibility varies from 0.17 to 0.49% in the study area. Orchards, farms, rangelands and forests with moderate or low vegetation cover were the most vulnerable land uses to soil erosion. The GloSEM modeling results revealed that climate change is the main cause of change in the rate of soil erosion. Combined land use change-climate change simulation showed that soil erosion will increase considerably in the future under SSP1-RCP2.6, SSP2-RCP4.5, and SSP5-RCP8.5 scenarios. In the study area, both natural factors, i.e. climate change and human factors such as agricultural development, population growth, and overgrazing are the main drivers of soil erosion.
Serum Level and Tumor Tissue Expression of Ribonucleotide-Diphosphate Reductase Subunit M2 B: A Potential Biomarker for Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Mobarra Naser , Gholamalizadeh Hanieh , Abdulhussein Kaed A. , Asl Fatemeh Taheri , Mirvahabi Mobina Sadat , Raji Sara , Rafiee Mahdi , Pakzad Reza
Published: September 2021

Background: This study aimed to investigate whether serum level and tissue expression of Ribonucleotide-diphosphate Reductase subunit M2 B (RRM2B) could be recognized as reliable biomarkers for colorectal cancer (CRC) progression and metastasis.Methods and Results: This descriptive-analytic cohort study was conducted on 50 newly diagnosed CRC patients (stage II, III) and 50 healthy individuals. The new cases had not received any therapeutic intervention and underwent surgery immediately after the initial diagnosis. Tumorous tissues and marginal healthy tissues as control were excised to determine the mRNA tissue expression of RRM2B by Real-Time PCR. Serum RRM2B protein was measured using an ELISA method once in the control group and in the patients before, one, and three months after surgery. The tumor metastasis node (TMN) classification system and liver metastasis were evaluated in CRC patients. The mean RRM2B gene expression in tumor tissue was 51% lower than adjacent normal tissue (P < 0.001). We did not find a significant relationship between serum level of RRM2B and tumor staging and metastasis in patients before surgery (P = 0.373, P = 0.189), one month after surgery (P = 0.960, P = 0.088), and three months after surgery (P = 0.407, P = 0.724). RRM2B expression in tumor tissue was not associated with tumor staging and metastasis (P = 0.254, P = 0.721)Conclusion: Our study indicates the first time evidence that RRM2B may serve as a potential biomarker for CRC.
Adapting and Testing a Brief Intervention to Reduce Maternal Anxiety During Pregnancy (ACORN): Report of a Feasibility Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: O’Mahen Heather A , Ramchandani Paul G , King Dorothy X , Lee-Carbon Leonie , Wilkinson Esther L , Thompson-Booth Chloe , Ericksen Jennifer , Milgrom Jeannette , Dunkley-Bent Jacqueline , Halligan Sarah L , Fearon Pasco
Published: September 2021

Background. We investigated the acceptability and feasibility of a new brief intervention for maternal prenatal anxiety within maternity services. Results. 114 pregnant women attending their 12-week scan at a prenatal clinic with elevated symptoms of anxiety (GAD-7 score of ≥ 7) were randomly assigned to either the ACORN intervention + Treatment as usual (TAU) (n=57) or to usual care only (n= 57). The ACORN intervention consisted of 3 group sessions, led by a midwife and psychological therapist, for women and their partners. The intervention included psychoeducation about anxiety, strategies for problem-sovling and tolerating uncertainty during pregnancy, including communicating about these with others, and mindfulness exercises. Engagement rates with ACORN met or exceeded those in primary care services in England. In the intervention arm, 77% (n= 44) of participants attended at least one session, 51% (n=29) were adherent, defined as attending two or more sessions. Feedback was positive, and women in the ACORN treatment group demonstrated some evidence of a larger drop in their levels of anxiety than the women in the TAU-only group (Cohen’s d = 0.42). Conclusion. The ACORN intervention was acceptable to women and their partners and resulted in reductions in anxiety. With further evaluation in a larger-scale trial with child outcomes, there is significant potential for large scale public health benefit.
Degradation of Oxytetracycline By Magnetic MOFs Heterojunction Photocatalyst With Persulfate : High Stability And Wide Range
Authors: Zhang Zhuo , Du Chunyan , Zhang Yin , Yu Guanlong , Xiong Ying , Zhou Lu , Liu Yuanyuan , Chi Tianying , Wang Guoliang , Su Yihai , Lv Yinchu , Zhu Hao
Published: September 2021

Photocatalysis/Persulfate is an effective method of degrading organic pollutants. In this study, Fe3O4/MIL-101(Fe), a magnetic heterojunction photocatalyst, was produced by hydrothermal method. The material exhibited excellent removal efficiency for OTC in the coupling of persulfate (87.1%, 1 h). And it has a wide range of applications, with good removal efficiency for OTC concentrations of 30 to 70 mg/L and pH values of 3 to 9. •SO4− and •OH played a major role in the OTC removal reaction and there was an Fe(III)/Fe(II) cycle during the reaction. With excellent stability and recoverability, the OTC removal efficiency decreased by only 4.29% after four cycles, and the Fe leaching did not exceed 0.035 mg/L per cycle. This has a significant implication for the removal of organic pollutants from water bodies.
Sero-Positivity of Japanese Encephalitis Virus in Equine Population of India Using IgG ELISA: Unraveling The Need for Vaccination
Authors: Kapdi Aarti , DHANZE HIMANI , Sahu Anamika , Singh Vijayata , Kumar M. Suman , Bhilegaonkar K.N. , Gulati B.R.
Published: September 2021

Japanese encephalitis (JE) is a mosquito borne flaviviral zoonoses, causing fatal disease in equines and humans. JE is endemic in most of the states of India with occurrence of human cases every year. The horses are not vaccinated against JE in India and thus they are at more risk of acquiring the disease. Due to non-availability of indigenously developed ELISA and high cost of imported kits, regular sero-surveillance is not being carried out to assess the true picture of JE virus in equine population of India. Therefore, a recombinant NS1 protein based indirect IgG ELISA was developed with the objective to assess the sero-positivity of JE virus in equine population of India. The diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of developed ELISA was 84.73 % and 86.70 %, respectively. The validation studies revealed good reproducibility of ELISA with kappa value ranging from 0.75 to 1 between the results of different laboratories. A total of 2069 horse serum samples were screened using the developed ELISA and 401 samples were positive for IgG against JEV with an overall sero-positivity of 19.38% in equine population of India. A sero-positivity of 25.90% and 12.22% was recorded in Himachal Pradesh and Jammu-Kashmir, both hill states of North zone of India for the first time, revealing the spread of virus to the non-endemic parts of the country. The high sero-positivity of JE virus recorded in equine population warrants the need for initiation of vaccination of horses in India to prevent the morbidity and mortality.
Complementary Feeding Practice by Maternal Employment Status in Eastern Ethiopia: A Comparative Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ahmed Mohammed Osman , Hawulte Behailu , Raru Temam Beshir , Hassen Tahir Ahmed , ROBA KEDIR TEJI
Published: September 2021

Background: Appropriate complementary feeding practice during the first two years of age prevents life cycle health problems that cannot be averted later in life. Appropriate complementary feeding practices are associated with various factors and the practice may vary between populations. This study aimed to investigate the complementary feeding practice among mothers with children aged 6-23 months by maternal employment status in eastern Ethiopia. Methods: A community-based comparative cross-sectional study was conducted in Gemachis district from 10 July to August 2020, eastern Ethiopia. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to sample a total of 674 mothers. Data were collected by face-to-face interview and analyzed using STATA version 14.2. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify factors associated with appropriate complementary feeding practice with 95 % CI or a P-value of less than 0.05.Results: Over all only 9.9% of all mothers were practicing appropriate complementary feeding, with 5.9% among employed and 11.9% unemployed mothers. After controlling for confounders, traveling to the workplace less than two hours (AOR= 5.9; 95% CI: 1.30, 16.14), giving birth at home (AOR= 0.08; 95% CI:0.01, 0.72, and having at least one ANC visit (AOR=6.5; 95% CI: 1.40, 25.7) were significantly associated with appropriate Complementary feeding practice among employed mothers while having children aged 9−23 months (AOR = 3.2; 95% CI: 1.3, 8.5), spending 17−24 hours on child care (AOR = 4.8; 95% CI: 1.6, 14.12], working 1-8 hours per day (AOR =0.17; 95% CI: 0.44, 0.63], and having at least one ANC visit (AOR = 7.6; 95% CI: 3.6, 14.01] were significantly associated with appropriate complementary feeding practice among unemployed mothers. Conclusion: The overall prevalence of appropriate complementary feeding practice was very low in this study area. There is a need to strengthen maternal health service utilization such as ANC and institutional delivery to improve complementary feeding practices. Further, considering adequate maternity leave and designing a subsidized alternative child care center is essential to improve the complementary feeding practice for employed mothers.
Independent Associations Between Blood Lipid Profiles and Lung Cancer Risk
Authors: Zhao Chao , Zhao Hui , Li Shuhai , Tian Hui
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Dyslipidemia is a common intermediate aggravating factor of various cancers, but the relationship between blood lipid profiles and lung cancer remains unclear. This study was performed to assess the non-linear and linear relationships between them.Material and methods: We enrolled 1593 newly diagnosed lung cancer patients and 1593 age- and sex-matched healthy controls between 2017 and 2019. Biochemical indicators, including lipid profiles and tumor markers, were collected. Odds ratios and 95% conﬁdence intervals were calculated using conditional logistic regression analysis. The restricted cubic spline analysis and multiple linear regression were used to explore the non-linear and linear associations.Results: Lung cancer patients had lower values for total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). After multivariate adjustment, hyper-TC and low-HDL-C were associated with lung cancer risk. In addition, non-linear relationships were identified between lung cancer risk and TC/HDL-C. Multiple linear regression analyses showed that triglycerides were signiﬁcantly associated with squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCC). As well, HDL-C was signiﬁcantly associated with neuron-specific enolase (NSE), cytokeratin 19 fragments (CYFRA21-1), SCC, and tumor-associated antigen 125 (CA-125). Signiﬁcant linear trends were observed between increasing triglyceride quartiles and hyper-NSE/hyper-CYFRA21-1, and between increasing HDL-C quartiles and hyper-NSE/hyper-CYFRA21-1/hyper-CA-125. Conclusions: Lipid levels were significantly lower in lung cancer patients, and there were negative non-linear associations of TC and HDL-C with lung cancer risk. In addition, there were negative linear trends across TG and HDL-C quartiles for the risk of abnormal tumor markers among lung cancer patients.