bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carcass and meat traits of bubaline finished on sugarcane-based diets supplemented with spineless cactus as a replacement for wheat bran
Authors: Borges Christiano Raphael de Albuquerque , Carvalho Francisco Fernando Ramos de , Neves Maria Luciana Menezes Wanderley , Pereira Neto José Diógenes , Vieira Guilherme Heliodoro Pedroso , Pessoa Ricardo Alexandre Silva
Published: August 2021

Objective: An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of increasing levels of spineless cactus (0%, 33%, 66%, and 100%) used as a substitute for wheat bran in buffalo diets on quantitative and qualitative traits of the meat and carcass.Methods: Twenty Murrah buffaloes at 18 months of age, with a mean initial weight of 292.9±57.3 kg, were randomly allocated to four treatments with five replicates. The animals were slaughtered after 90 days in the feedlot. The effects of spineless cactus as a replacement for wheat bran in the diet of the buffaloes on the carcass and meat traits, slaughter weight, carcass yield and carcass measurements were studied.Results: Increased spineless cactus levels led to linear reduction in average daily gain, slaughter weight, hot and cold carcass weight, compactness index and in the amount of muscle in the carcass, and there is no difference between the control treatment and the 33% replacing level for these parameters. The quality of the meat was not influenced by the treatments.Conclusion: Spineless cactus can replace wheat bran by up to 33% in sugarcane-based diets for buffaloes, without influencing quantitative and qualitative traits of the meat and carcass.
Robust Backstepping Sliding Mode Control with L2-Gain Performance for Reference Input Wheel Slip Tracking of Vehicle
Authors: Jusas Vacius , Zhang Jiaxu , Li Jing
Published: August 2021

The wheel slip control is the basis of active safety control systems and intelligent driver assistance  systems. This paper presents a new robust backstepping sliding mode controller for reference input wheel slip tracking based on the single-corner model combined with the actuator dynamics. The proposed controller is realized by combining backstepping method, which has the merits of simplified and flexible design procedure, with sliding mode control, which has robustness against system uncertainty and external disturbance. Moreover, the closed-loop wheel dynamic system is L2-gain stable by Lyapunov-based method, and the simulation results show that the proposed controller has better performance.
Nonsingular Fast Terminal Sliding Mode Based Model-Free Control: Application to Glycemia Regulation Systems
Authors: Tian Yang , Wang Haoping , Wu Qi , Hu Maiting , Christov Nicolai
Published: August 2021

A new Model-Free Control (MFC) is derived to enhance the control performance of the well-known Nonlinear Integral Backstepping based MFC (NIB-MFC). A Nonsingular Fast Terminal Sliding Mode (NFTSM) component is added to NIB-MFC, which makes possible to compensate the estimation error of the time-delay estimation module of NIB-MFC. The obtained in this way new control structure is called NFTSM-MFC. The system stability with NFTSM-MFC is proved and the application of NFTSM-MFC for glycemia regulation is considered. The performances of NFTSM-MFC are compared with those of the NIB-MFC and the intelligent proportional control for a glucose-insulin model of type 1 diabetes patients under a long term simulation.
Artikel 35a Rating-VO und das Internationale Privatrecht
Authors: Mehrmann Kerstin
Published: August 2021

The major role of the Rome II Regulation within Art. 35a of the CRA Regulation challenges investors, issuers and Credit Rating Agencies but also the courts. This book deals with the difficulties of applying the Rome II Regulation on financial market torts using the example of the liability of Credit Rating Agencies. The problem of where exactly economic loss occurs is discussed as well as the need for a new Conflict of Laws rule for financial torts. In this context, the proposal by the Special Committee on Financial Market Law of the German Council for Private International Law is analyzed, also taking into account the materialization of European Private International Law.
Wie smarte, konnektive Leistungen die Verhandlungsmacht der Kunden verändern
Authors: Treusch Oliver
Published: August 2021

Connective products and smart services are changing customer–supplier relationships and are presenting mechanical engineers with new, competitive challenges. How are these smart, connective services now changing the bargaining power of customers? Which drivers play a special role in this respect? This book provides answers to these questions for executives from sales, marketing and product management in the mechanical engineering industry. It helps them to effectively manage their customers’ bargaining power, especially in terms of differentiation and switching costs.

This book is dedicated to corporate management in the context of digital transformation, especially industrial goods marketing and strategic management.
Effektiver Rechtsschutz im Informationsfreiheitsgesetz des Bundes?
Authors: Gerold Angelika
Published: August 2021

We live in an information society. Data is worth a fortune, because knowledge advantages can be converted into cash in the private sector. Information that the state collects should therefore be accessible to everyone. In Germany, this is regulated by the Federal Freedom of Information Act (IFG des Bundes). Yet there is a need for balanced access regulations to state information. After all, a request for access can reveal the tension between transparency and confidentiality. This becomes particularly apparent in the regulations of the IFG des Bundes on the protection of trade and business secrets. A crux of our democratic constitutional state becomes evident: It is not possible to comprehensively safeguard confidentiality.
Aufsichtsratskommunikation
Authors: Schauer Pirmin J.
Published: August 2021

International corporate governance standards are exercising unrelenting pressure on German company law. One of the most pressing questions in current corporate governance debate is to what extent the supervisory board can participate in the investor relations of a public limited company without intruding too far into the executive board's sphere of competence. Starting from the legal and economic perspective on the distribution of information in public limited companies, the author shows on what dogmatic principles such involvement may be permissible. The development of the supervisory board into an active player in corporate communication also means that the role of the supervisory board and the scope of duties of the chairman of the supervisory board must be reviewed in a different light.
Soziale Teilhabe von älteren Menschen
Authors: Wolff Michael
Published: August 2021

In this book, the social participation of older people in Germany, Sweden and Switzerland (multinational) is analysed in terms of income/property, health, housing and social networks (multidimensional). Drawing on the theory of French social solidarity, the author pinpoints the minimum provisions for a social contract which the members of society conclude with each other on the basis of experiences of inequality. In doing so, they recognise themselves as free and equal and secure themselves the right to comparable and largely similar living conditions. The gap between normative standards and social policy practice can be used to describe reform proposals for an inclusive policy for the elderly.
Effectiveness of the Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy on Depression, Stress, and Anxiety Among COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Khazami Marzieh , Dasht Bozorgi Zahra
Published: August 2021

Background: Depression, stress, and anxiety have a high prevalence among coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients, and they can diminish psychological health and lead to malfunctions in various aspects of patients. Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) is considered as one of the effective treatments to improve health-related psychological qualities. Objectives: The current research aimed to determine the effectiveness of the MBCT on depression, stress, and anxiety among people with COVID-19. Methods: The research deployed an experimental design with pre-and post-tests and a control group. The population included all recovered patients with COVID-19 referring to health centers in Ahvaz, Iran, in 2020. Using available random sampling method, 30 patients who met the inclusion criteria were recruited and equally randomized into either experimental or control groups. While eight 90-minute MBCT sessions were administered for the experimental group, the control group received no interventions. The Depression, Anxiety, and Stress scale (DASS-21) was used to collect the data. The data were analyzed by SPSS software version 23 using multivariate and univariate analysis of variance. Results: The results showed that there were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of gender, age, and education (P > .05). The results of multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA) and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) indicated that all the three subscales of depression (d = 0/75), stress (d = 0/86), and anxiety (d = 0/82) were significantly reduced in the intervention group (P < 0.05). Conclusions: The MBCT is an effective therapeutic way to reduce depressive, stress, and anxious signs of patients with COVID-19. Thus, it is recommended that therapists and experts use this method to promote patients’ mental health.
Exposure of Medical Education System to Digital Divide Due to COVID-19
Authors: Sabeghi Hakimeh , Rezvani Moloud , Bahrami Mahnaz , Kavi Esmaeil
Published: August 2021

: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has become one of the most challenging conditions for universities and educational institutions. The provision of online medical education is more difficult than other disciplines due to the nature of its practical and clinical courses. Problems related to limited access to information and communication technologies and the internet and lack of specialized knowledge and skills related to the provision of online content and educational videos, use of specialized educational software and hardware, and special online platforms have made the digital divide more apparent in this period. This commentary aims to address the digital divide in medical education during the COVID-19 pandemic and quarantine.
Tragedy without Action?
Authors: Nikolopoulou Kalliopi ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: August 2021

The essay focuses on a paradox in the modern reception of tragedy: modernity foregrounds the Sophoclean tragic hero, in particular, but undermines the significance of heroic agency as autonomous deliberation. This gesture could be traced back to Hölderlin’s reading of Antigone as “divine fool,” and culminates more recently in Loraux’s gendered theory of tragedy as the feminine mourning voice that opposes the masculine politics of rational deliberation and action. For Loraux, tragedy’s ethical thrust is to highlight the distorted temporality of the political logos, which gives us a false sense of infinity through power and action; in contrast, the tragic voice exposes that mortal beings’ only infinity is the infinity of suffering and mourning. First outlined in her essay on Antigone, this thesis is later expanded in a book on tragedy as dirge, focusing on Sophocles’s Electra. By rereading both Sophoclean plays as mirroring each other on the topics of mourning, action, and revenge, I submit that, not only is action indispensable for tragedy, but the heroines’ infinitization of mourning affirms their disregard for mortal time in pursuit of their own glory. Their “intransigence” in mourning—to use Bernard Knox’s term—is the feminine equivalent to the war glory pursued by their male counterparts, though Electra’s inactive revenge fantasies lessen her heroic stature. Contra modernity’s emphasis on time, history, and finitude, I insist that Sophoclean heroes/heroines contest and reject time and its limits.
LX-8000R and UriSed 2 fully automated urine analyzers comparison to manual microscopic examination
Authors: Evin Canpolat , Aslan Özgür
Published: August 2021

Background: Urinalysis has an important place in evaluating kidney and urinary tract infections. Automated urine analyzers enhance productivity and turnover in laboratories and economize time and labor required for analysis. In the present study, we evaluated and compared analytic and diagnostic performance of UriSed2 with LX-8000R, which is a novel image-based automated urine sediment analyzer. Methods: A total of 178 urine samples sent to our laboratory were evaluated by the two urine analyzers and standard manual microscopy. Precision and comparison studies were done in accordance with CLSI guidelines. Results: Sensitivity assessment revealed similar outcomes with both UriSed2 and LX-8000R devices for erythrocyte count (RBC), whereas UriSed2 device yielded higher outcomes for leukocyte count (WBC) and epithelial cells (EPI) than LX-8000R analyzer. Specificity of UriSed2 for WBC and RBC was higher than that of LX-8000R device. According to Gamma statistics, both urine analyzers showed perfect consistency for WBC, RBC and EPI cell counts. Manuel microscopy revealed statistically significant correlation between LX-8000R and UriSed2 in terms of WBC and RBC. Manual evaluation by Bland-Altman analysis demonstrated lower WBC and RBC values and higher EPI as compared to both UriSed2 and LX-8000R devices. As the result of Passing-Bablok regression analysis, both devices were found to be inconsistent with manual microscopy. Conclusions: We think that evaluation of automated urine analyzers will be more meaningful when they are evaluated together with urine samples and patient clinical findings in addition to comparing with manual microscopy.
Mobile application single sign-on :
Authors: Fisher William , Grassi Paul , Barker William C , Dog Spike E , Jha Santos , Kim William , McCorkill Taylor , Portner Joseph , Russell Mark , Umarji Sudhi
Published: August 2021

On-demand access to public safety data is critical to ensuring that public safety and first responders (PSFRs) can protect life and property during an emergency. This public safety information, often needing to be accessed via mobile or portable devices, routinely includes sensitive information, such as personally identifiable information, law enforcement sensitive information, and protected health information. Because the communications are critical to public safety and may include sensitive information, robust and reliable authentication mechanisms that do not hinder delivery of emergency services are required. In collaboration with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Public Safety Communications Research laboratory and industry stakeholders, the National Cybersecurity Center of Excellence (NCCoE) at NIST built a laboratory environment to demonstrate standards-based technologies that can enable PSFRs to gain access to public safety information efficiently and securely by using mobile devices. The technologies demonstrated are currently available and include (1) single sign-on (SSO) capabilities that reduce the number of credentials that need to be managed by public safety personnel, and reduce the time and effort that individuals spend authenticating themselves; (2) identity federation that can improve the ability to authenticate personnel across public safety organization (PSO) boundaries; and (3) multifactor authentication (MFA) that enables authentication with a high level of assurance.
Metamorphic rocks of the Kuching Zone Sarawak: Comment on Najiatun Najla Mohamad et al. (2020) The geology and stratigraphic framework of the Kuching Zone Sarawak: Current understanding and unresolved issues
Authors:   SE Asia Research Group, Department of Earth Sciences, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham, TW20 0EX, UK, Breitfeld H. Tim , Hall Robert ,   SE Asia Research Group, Department of Earth Sciences, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham, TW20 0EX, UK
Published: August 2021

Metamorphic rocks of Sarawak have been dated and are not Upper Carboniferous or older rocks nor are they correlatives of the Pinoh Metamorphics of Kalimantan. Two newly-dated rocks are Triassic and are named the West Sarawak Metamorphics and a third sample is Cretaceous.
Self-Care: An Ethical Imperative for Anti-Racist Counselor Training
Authors: Mitchell Michelle , Binkley Erin
Published: August 2021

Attention has been given to multicultural counseling, social justice and advocacy work over the last several decades; with this in mind, it is essential Counselors educators work as anti-racist change agents to understand the role of self-care in advocacy and be armed with self-care strategies based upon racial identity standing. Working through the lens of racial identity development models, educators will learn ways to support students of the dominant culture in engaging in self-care without initiating oppressive behaviors, and conversely will learn strategies to assist Black, Indigenous, Persons of Color (BIPOC) in enacting self-care without assisting in their own oppression. Thus, the purpose of this conceptual manuscript is to (a) provide a rationale for self-care as an ethical imperative, (b) introduce self-care strategies to employ while supporting anti-racist andragogy through intentional wellness, and (c) call students to build self-care routines focused on multiculturalism and social justice.
Equipping School Counselors for Antiracist Healing Centered Groups: A Critical Examination of Preparation, Connected Curricula, Professional Practice and Oversight
Authors: Ieva Kara P. , Beasley Jordon , Steen Sam
Published: August 2021

This paper highlights the potential for school counselors to promote antiracist practices and racial healing engagement utilizing small group counseling to ultimately eliminate inequities in schools. However, counselor educator programs, founded on middle to upper class white ideals, worldviews, and narrowly focused theoretical frameworks, currently function in ways that fail to equip future school counselors with the group facilitation knowledge, skills, and dispositions necessary for equitable practice in schools across the nation using case illustrations and a broad current literature review, the authors conceptualize the rationale for more competencies beyond group course assignment, clinical requirements (e.g., CACREP standards, 2016), practice, and supervision. Critical questions for counselor educators to reflect upon for group and connected curricula transformation are provided.
A Womanist Supervision Framework for Promoting Anti-Racist Therapy with Black Women
Authors: Green Camellia V. , Burton Danielle E.
Published: August 2021

A counselor’s anti-racist disposition is particularly needed for Black woman clients due to unique treatment needs. Womanist values and pedagogy are used to develop a culturally-responsive supervision framework encompassing key themes of anti-racist supervisee development such as critical consciousness development, awareness of power dynamics, social justice activism and honoring the cultural self. Womanist pedagogy, previously used in K-12 schools, prioritizes the community orientation of maternal care to promote the survival of Black people in oppressive systems. A call to action for counselor educators is introduced for the promotion of an anti-racist supervisee disposition. Keywords: anti-racist, supervision, Womanist, critical consciousness
Reexamination of N-terminal domains of syntaxin-1 in vesicle fusion from central murine synapses
Authors: Vardar Gülçin , Salazar-Lázaro Andrea , Brockmann Marisa , Weber-Boyvat Marion , Zobel Sina , Kumbol Victor Wumbor-Apin , Trimbuch Thorsten , Rosenmund Christian
Published: August 2021

Syntaxin-1 (STX1) and Munc18-1 are two requisite components of synaptic vesicular release machinery, so much so synaptic transmission cannot proceed in their absence. They form a tight complex through two major binding modes: through STX1’s N-peptide and through STX1’s closed conformation driven by its Habc- domain. However, physiological roles of these two reportedly different binding modes in synapses are still controversial. Here we characterized the roles of STX1’s N-peptide, Habc-domain, and open conformation with and without N-peptide deletion using our STX1-null mouse model system and exogenous reintroduction of STX1A mutants. We show, on the contrary to the general view, that the Habc-domain is absolutely required and N-peptide is dispensable for synaptic transmission. However, STX1A’s N-peptide plays a regulatory role, particularly in the Ca2+-sensitivity and the short-term plasticity of vesicular release, whereas STX1’s open conformation governs the vesicle fusogenicity. Strikingly, we also show neurotransmitter release still proceeds when the two interaction modes between STX1A and Munc18-1 are presumably intervened, necessitating a refinement of the conceptualization of STX1A–Munc18-1 interaction.
Carinacuma umesi, a new genus and species of bodotriid cumacean (Crustacea: Malacostraca: Peracarida) from shallow waters of the Maryland Coastal Bays, Mid-Atlantic region, USA
Authors: Morales-Núñez Andrés G. , Chigbu Paulinus
Published: August 2021

Carinacuma, a new bodotriid cumacean genus, is diagnosed to receive Spilocuma watlingi Omholt & Heard as its type species and C. umesi sp. nov., described from shallow waters (0.8 to 2.8 m) on the Mid-Atlantic coast of North America. Carinacuma gen. nov. has its closest affinities to the North American genera Spilocuma and Mancocuma, but can be distinguished from them and the other genera within the subfamily Vaunthompsoniinae by a combination of characters, including the presence of a dorsal carina or keel on pereonite 3 of the female, morphology of the antenna, absence of pleopods in the male, and the setation and segmentation of the uropods. Carinacuma umesi sp. nov., can be differentiated from its northern Gulf of Mexico cognate, C. watlingi comb. nov. by several characters, including: (1) maxilliped 3 carpus of female with inner margin bearing four to five simple setae, (2) uropod peduncle of female with inner margin bearing one sub-distal micro-serrate seta with single sub-terminal medial setule, (3) male antennule peduncle articles 1–2 sub-equal length, and (4) male antennule accessory flagellum slightly longer than basal article of main flagellum. A key to the five known males lacking pleopods within Vaunthompsoniinae is provided.
Mechanical properties of recycled aggregate concrete surface treated by variation in mixing approaches
Authors:   Faculty of Civil Engineering, Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education, Anand Nagar, Krishnankoil, 626126 (India), Jagan S. , Neelakantan T. R. ,   Faculty of Civil Engineering, Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education, Anand Nagar, Krishnankoil, 626126 (India), Kumar P. Saravana ,   Faculty of Civil Engineering, Sri Krishna College of Engineering and Technology, Kuniyamuthur, Coimbatore, 641008 (India)
Published: August 2021

Increased demand for natural aggregates (NA) due to infrastructural development has necessitated the use of alternative aggregates in the field of construction. One such option is the utilization of construction and demolition wastes, preferably named as recycled coarse aggregates (RCA) to produce a sustainable recycled aggregate concrete (RAC). Perhaps, the quality of RCA is usually poor due to the presence of adhered mortar on its surface affecting the strength and durability properties of RAC. Consequently, it is essential to improve the behavior of recycled aggregate concrete. In order to improve the recycled concrete aggregate, four different processing techniques such as two-stage mixing approach (TSMA), mortar mixing approach (MMA), sand enveloped mixing approach (SEMA) and double mixing approach (DMA) were used to improve the quality of RAC. This paper aims at providing a comparative study on the suitability of different mixing approaches and their influence over the fresh and hardened properties of recycled aggregate concrete. The performance behaviour of RAC was evaluated at 7, 14, 28 and 90 days with various percentage replacements of RCA at w/c ratios of 0.45 and 0.5. Experimental results indicate that the strength of concrete made of 100% RCA was equivalent to the target strength at 90 days. Also, among the various mixing processing techniques, MMA shows better fresh and hardened properties of concrete at different curing ages. Micro-structural investigations through SEM were performed to investigate the modification in the ITZ of the RAC through MMA approach.
Vocabulary learning using student-created class vocabulary lists
Authors: Denison G. Clint , Custance Imogen
Published: August 2021

In this article, we describe the pedagogical basis for class vocabulary lists (CVLs) and their implementation using Google Sheets. CVLs allow students to collaborate and build “notebooks” of vocabulary that they feel is important to learn. CVL choices of students (N= 53) in three classes of mixed non-English majors and one informatics class were compared against frequency-based lists (British National Corpus/Corpus of Contemporary American English Word Family Lists [BNC/COCA], New General Service List [NGSL], Test of English for International Communication [TOEIC] Service List [TSL]) using the Compleat Web Vocabulary Profiler (Web VP) to determine the usefulness of the selected vocabulary. An information technology keywords list, constructed using AntConc and AntCorGen, was compared against the informatics group’s CVL to determine if those students were choosing field-appropriate vocabulary. Results suggest that when given autonomy to choose vocabulary, students generally select useful and relevant words for their contexts (e.g, simulation, virtual, privacy, artificial, denuclearization, aftershock, heatstroke) and that CVLs supplement frequency-based lists in beneficial ways.
Vocabulary and computer technology: A commentary on four studies for JALT vocabulary SIG
Authors: Nakata Tatsuya
Published: August 2021

Four papers by Clint Denison and Imogen Custance, Louis Lafleur, James Rogers, and Andrew Obermeier will be presented at the Eighth Annual JALT Vocabulary SIG Symposium in Tokyo, Japan, on September 20, 2020. The topics covered in the four papers are vocabulary learning using online student-created vocabulary lists, development of a flashcard program that manipulates the review schedule and question format, creation of a list of multi-word units based on corpora, and examination of the acquisition of declarative and tacit vocabulary knowledge from deliberate computer-assisted learning. This commentary briefly summarizes each study and offers suggestions for future research. All of the four studies exhibit how computer technology can be used to facilitate vocabulary research, teaching, and learning.
Exploring the effectiveness of deliberate computer-assisted language learning
Authors: Obermeier Andrew
Published: August 2021

This article presents a work-in-progress focused on developing an experiment to investigate the effectiveness of different types of deliberate paired-associate computer-assisted language learning (CALL). First, the rationale for Japanese EFL learners’ current need for doubling their efforts with this technique is explained. Next, an overview of research regarding the interface in second language acquisition is presented. This is followed by an explanation of results from a recent experiment. Questions and issues raised in that experiment are then discussed with regard to a proposal for a subsequent experiment that will be conducted during the semester starting in April 2020. In this proposed study, different conditions within Internet-based flashcard study will be the major experimental learning component. Psycholinguistic response time measures will be the main dependent variable, aimed at gauging gains in nondeclarative, or tacit L2 knowledge. In addition, online declarative measures and traditional offline measures of declarative knowledge will be used.
On creating a large-scale corpus-based academic multi-word unit resource
Authors: Rogers James
Published: August 2021

This study outlines the steps taken to create an academic multi-word unit list derived from corpus data. It gives details on the procedure used and the rationale behind why certain approaches were utilised. It also compares existing resources and makes some suggestions for practical use of the resulting resource.
The challenges of measuring multi-word expression use in conversation
Authors: Thomson Haidee
Published: August 2021

This article introduces three important challenges and possible solutions when using spoken dialogue to measure the use of specific multiword expressions. The first challenge is deciding whether to count precise and accurate use of target expressions only or whether to extend the count to include variation. The second challenge requires addressing the indirect nature of dialogue as a testing method. The third challenge is organizing data and preparing ways to clearly identify speakers within the dialogue. These challenges are illustrated with examples and potential solutions from my recent research investigating spoken use of multi-word expressions.
Deliberate vocabulary learning from word cards
Authors: Wilkinson Darrell
Published: August 2021

While word cards are a widely supported method of deliberately studying foreign language vocabulary, there is a surprising lack of research-based evidence supporting them. This paper first reviews some of the key literature on word cards and then briefly describes two experiments concerning word card methodology. The first experiment described in this paper examined the learning outcomes of making word cards while the second experiment compared the use of self-made word cards with premade cards. The results of the first study indicated that the simple process of making word cards results in significant shortterm vocabulary learning, but this new knowledge is sensitive to attrition if no further study is carried out soon after making the cards. The results of the second experiment indicated that while both methods are effective in the short and long-term, learners may be better studying from premade cards. Taken together, the results offer support for the use of word cards for foreign language vocabulary learning.
Art of Paper Setting: The Blueprinting of MBBS Physiology Competency Based Curriculum
Authors: Jaipurkar Raksha , Saikhedkar Swapnil , Kumar Dharmendra , Sikri Gaurav , Sharma Sushil
Published: August 2021

Introduction: Written examinations are integral component of students’ assessments at formative and summative level. There is no blueprint of question paper available for the new curriculum in Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) Physiology curriculum which may lead to variations in question paper setting. This lack of consistency in question papers affects the preparedness and performance of students. Aim: To prepare the blueprint of MBBS Physiology Competency Based Medical Education (CBME) curriculum and to do content validity by comparing with Preliminary Examination (PE) and University Examination (UE). Materials and Methods: This was a descriptive study conducted over a period of six months from July 2020 till December 2020. The study was conducted in Armed Forces Medical College, Pune. There are 15 topics and 140 outcomes for Physiology MBBS course as per new CBME curriculum is divided into paper I and II according to Maharashtra University of Health Sciences (MUHS) syllabus. The main topics in each paper were further subdivided into subtopics for preparing learning objectives. Marks were allotted to each system taking into consideration optimum marks 97 for subjective with included options and 20 marks Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs). The papers of UE and PE conducted with new format were analysed for content validity. Results: The blueprint of paper I (subjective) shows marks allotted for General Physiology 12, Haematology 13, Respiratory System (RS) 15, Cardiovascular (CVS) 17, Exercise 05, Renal system 15, Gastrointestinal System (GIT) 12, Lifestyle Aging and Meditation 03 and Attitude, Ethics and Communication. (AETCOM) 05 marks. The blueprint of paper II (subjective) shows marks for the Nerve-Muscle 16, Central Nervous System (CNS) 25, Special senses 14, endocrine system are 18, reproductive system 15, and temperature 09. MCQs were also allotted proportionate marks for each topic. Content analysis of papers showed exercise Physiology and body temperature regulation were not assessed in UE. Conclusion: There was disproportionate representation of topics in formative and summative examinations in absence of blueprint. The blueprint should be an integral part of assessments.
Clinicoepidemiological Profile and Outcome of COVID-19 Positive Health Care Workers in a Tertiary Care Centre in South India
Authors: Manjiyil Irene Jose , Areekal Binu , Jose Rajany , Andrews Andrews Mekkattukunnel , Rajagopalawarrier Biju Krishnan , Veetil Santhosh Puthiya , Pengan Muraly Cheruparambil
Published: August 2021

Introduction: Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is rapidly spreading in India and all over the world. Being at the frontline in the battle against COVID-19, Health Care Workers (HCWs) are among the greatest groups at risk of COVID-19 infection. Therefore, it is very important to study the risk and sources of infection and clinical outcome of HCWs. Aim: To study the clinico-epidemiological profile and outcome of COVID-19 positive HCWs in Government Medical College Thrissur, Kerala, India. Materials and Methods: This was a hospital based cross-sectional study conducted during the time period from February 2020 to December 2020. A semi-structured telephonic interview schedule and hospital based records were used to collect the demographic, epidemiological and clinical information of 235 COVID-19 positive HCWs. Proportions along with 95% Confidence Interval was used to express the results. Results: Among 235 COVID-19 positive HCWs, 51% were either nurses or auxiliary nursing staff. Non-COVID-19 areas had 31.9% infections, while 17.1% of infections occured in COVID-19 areas. Around 57% acquired infection from health care settings. Common symptoms were fever (67.2%), myalgia (40.4%) and headache (39.6%). Around 21.3% subjects remained asymptomatic. Hand hygiene compliance was 96.6%. Among positive HCWs, 57% used N95 mask, 52.8% used gloves, 49.8% used apron and 48.9% used face shield in the hospital. Only 0.85% required Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admission. No mortality was reported in the present study. Conclusion: There is a considerable risk for COVID-19 infection among HCWs in hospital settings especially from non-COVID-19 areas. Present study findings show the risk of exposure and need of infection control measures even outside the health care settings. Early identification and isolation of cases is very important. This study will be useful for policy makers in planning control strategies and preventing COVID-19 infections among HCWs.
An Examination of the Relationship between Self-Compassion and Positive Mental Health of Undergraduate Students of Royal University of Bhutan
Authors: Chaudhuri Kalpak , Dawala . , Dema Sonam , Wangmo Sonam , Gautam Khem Prasad
Published: August 2021

Aims: The study examined the relationship between self-compassion and positive mental health of undergraduate students of the Royal University of Bhutan.

Study Design:  It was a correlational study.

Place and Duration of Study: The sample consisted of students of Gedu College of Business Studies, College of Science and Technology, Samtse College, Norbuling Rigter College, Royal Thimphu College, Paro College of Education, College of Language and Cultural Studies, Sherubtse College, in Bhutan, between July 2020 and June 2021.

Methodology: Participants were 321 undergraduate students (184 female, 137 male), between 17 and 40 years of age. To assess self-compassion and positive mental health they completed a questionnaire that consisted of the Self-Compassion Scale–Short Form (SCS-SF) and the Mental Health Continuum–Short Form (MHC-SF).

Results: There was not a significant difference in overall mental health scores between the male students (M = 2.560, SD = 1.325) and the female students (M = 2.339, SD = 1.254); t(319) = -1.525, p = .128. Among the students surveyed, 24.6 percent were flourishing, 42.1 percent were moderately mentally healthy, and 33.3 percent were languishing. The percentage of female students (35.3) languishing was higher compared to male students (30.7). The participants had a moderate level of self-compassion (M = 3.034, SD = 0.403). The male students (M = 3.092, SD = 0.415) were significantly more self-compassionate than the females (M = 2.991, SD = 0.389); t(319) = -2.230, p = .026. Self-compassion was significantly positively correlated with the positive mental health of the students (r = .337, p < .001). Self-kindness (r = .298, p < .001), mindfulness (r = .278, p < .001), common humanity (r = .240, p < .001), self-judgment (r = .126, p = .024), and isolation (r = .119, p = .033) components of self-compassion were found to be significantly positively correlated to positive mental health. Over-identification had a non-significant weak correlation with positive mental health (r = 0.09). According to regression results, mindfulness (β = .18, p = .017), self-kindness (β = .17, p = .023), and self-judgment (β = .15, p = .006) significantly positively predicted positive mental health. The regressor, mindfulness, had the highest correlation with positive mental health. Self-compassion has explained 11.1 percent of the variance in positive mental health, F (3, 317) = 14.385, p < .001.

Conclusion: Enhancing mindfulness is a promising positive intervention to improve positive mental health and reduce the risk of mental illness of the students in the future.
Nutritional Potential of Two Maturity Stages of Eggplant Solanum aethiopicum "Striped Toga" Variety Harvested in Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Ghislaine Dan Chépo , Bedel Fagbohoun Jean , Martial Fankroma
Published: August 2021

African eggplant Solanum aethiopicum var. striped toga is a vegetable-fruit widely consumed in Côte d'Ivoire. However, observations have shown that the cortex was removed from the pulp during culinary preparations for various reasons. The objective of this study is to contribute to the valorization of this eggplant by showing the nutritional interest of the cortex and the pulp. The samples used in this study were collected in a market garden located south of Abidjan. After separating the cortex from the pulp, they were ground into powder and used for physicochemical analysis. The results concerning physicochemical parameters showed that the ripe pulp (Pm) compared to the ripe cortex (Cm) contained more total sugars (165±0.7 versus 107±0.70 mg/100 g DM). Whereas, the unripe pulp Pnm contained significant amounts of polyphenols and tannins compared to the unripe cortex (636±0.25 versus 328±0.04 mg/100g DM for total polyphenols; 577±0.09 versus 171±0.21 mg/100 g DM for tannins). Oxalate contents decreased in ripe parts of the fruit (Pnm: 332±2.52 and Cnm: 131±1.00 mg/100g DM in unripe eggplant versus Pm: 157.75±1.52 and Cm: 55±0 .00 mg/100g DM in ripe eggplant). Also, Solanum aethiopicum var. striped toga could play an important role in human nutrition because of their nutrients content, thus contributing to better health.
Human Health Risk Assessment of Crude Oil Polluted Soil, Surface & Groundwater Sources in Emohua, Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Ahiamadu Nnamdi M. , Nwaogazie Ify L. , Momoh Yussuf O. L.
Published: August 2021

This study was carried out to assess the human health risk associated with a crude oil spill site in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State,  Niger Delta. The Total Content and Fraction’s approaches were adopted to assess the human health risk. Total Content approach was carried out by comparing the concentration of various contaminants in the environmental media studied with the Intervention Values prescribed while the Fractions approach was carried out using RBCA Toolkit for Chemical Releases version 2.6. The results indicate that concentration indices for Total Petroleum Hydrocarbon (TPH) and Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon (PAH) were greater than the acceptable limit of 1.0 for both the maximum and mean concentrations in soil and groundwater, indicating unacceptable risk at this site. The result from the Fraction’s approach showed that carcinogenic risks are identified for the site through the soil and grounwater exposure pathways as the Total Risk Values for soil (1.7 x10-3) and groundwater (5.6 x 10-1) are higher than the target risk of 1.0 x 10-5 while toxic effects risks are identified for all pathways in the site with Total Health Risk Index for all four pathways greater than the applicable limit of 1.0. Ingestion of groundwater for carcinogenic risk with risk value 5.6 x 10-1 and inhalation of indoor air for non-carcinogenic risk Health Risk Index of 1.0 x104 are identified as the major contributing exposure pathways at this study site. It was therefore concluded that the study site poses unacceptable risk to human health and needs immediate intervention.
Adenomatoid Odontogenic Tumor- A Rare Case Report of “Two Third Tumor”
Authors: Budakoti Akansha , Khanna Kaveri Surya , Choudhary Anuridhi
Published: August 2021

Adenomatoid odontogenic tumor (AOT) is a rare odontogenic origin tumor that manifests as a slow-growing cystic neoplasm in the anterior maxilla, often in conjunction with an impacted tooth. AOTs are divided into three kinds based on their histology: follicular, extrafollicular, and peripheral. Because the source of the AOT is unknown, it's impossible to say whether the lining of an associated cyst reflects the cause i.e. a real dentigerous cyst, a cystic alteration within an AOT, or a separate entity. The diagnosis and treatment should be determined following a thorough clinical, radiographic, and histological investigation. The presented case is a rare occurrence of its sort due to the favorable patient's age and the AOT's site in the lower jaw. The current study reports on a case with follicular AOT in the anterior mandibular region (a rare location), with unusual histomorphology (snow flake and calcified areas) associated with impacted 43 and retained 83.
Assessment of Efficacy of Pelvic Floor Muscle Exercise (PFME) on Urinary Incontinence among Middle Aged Women
Authors: Verma Veena , Mathew Sinju
Published: August 2021

Background: Urinary incontinence (UI) is a familiar manifestation that can affect women of all ages, with a wide range of severity and nature. While rarely life-threatening, incontinence may seriously influence the physical, psychological and social wellbeing of affected individuals.

Objective: The main objective of the study is to assess the effectiveness of pelvic floor muscle exercises (PFME) or Kegel’s exercise on urinary incontinence among middle aged women of selected urban community of Raipur (C.G).

Methodology: A community based quazi - experimental study was conducted among 60 middle aged women having mild to moderate degree of urinary incontinence. The sample were selected by nonrandomised purposive technique The baseline data were collected from 60 samples (30 in experimental group and 30 in control group) by standardised tool - Questionnaire for urinary incontinence diagnosis (QUID) on urinary incontinence. The experimental group was taught to practise Kegel’s exercise for 4 week followed by post- test of both control & experimental group to compare the data for effectiveness.

Results: Comparison of mean and SD of pre-test and post-test level of urinary incontinence among middle aged women in experimental group & control group (un paired t -test) showed that the calculated value (2.1) of t was higher than the table value (2) at 0.05 level which shows that PFME is effective in improving symptoms of urinary incontinence if practised on regular basis. Factors positively associated with urinary incontinence were parity, type of delivery and nature of work.

Conclusion: Middle aged women with urinary incontinence will be greatly benefitted with regular pelvic floor muscle exercise. Health care practitioner should train & educate them on correct ways of performing Kegel’s exercise at community level.
Ternary FePSe3 Atomic Layers with Competitive Temperature Coefficient of Resistance for Uncooled Infrared Bolometers
Authors: Li Alei , Ge Yanfeng , Gan Yuan , Ren Yulu L. , He Yingjie , Chen Qianxue , Wang Peipei , Zhang Kai , Yang Shengyuan A. , Wu Judy Z. , Chen Rui , Zhang Liyuan , Gong Youpin
Published: August 2021

The semiconducting metal phosphorus trichalcogenides (MPX3, X = S, Se), a new family of layered atomic materials similar to the transition‐metal dichalcogenides, have recently attracted great attention owing to their 2D magnetic properties as well as their wide range of tunable bandgaps, which can lead to promising applications in spintronic and optoelectronic devices. Herein, an uncooled bolometer based on FePSe3 atomic layers is reported, on which a competitive temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR) of ≈−2.96% K−1 at room temperature is observed. In detecting infrared radiation (980–1550 nm) at room temperature using the FePSe3 bolometer, high responsivity exceeding 108 V W−1 and specific detectivity up to 109 Jones are achieved, which can be attributed to the combined advantages of the competitive room‐temperature TCR and natural thermal isolation between the inner layers of FePSe3 and the environment. This result reveals a remarkable property of FePSe3 atomic layers and paves the way toward new types of bolometers with high sensitivities.
Out‐of‐equilibrium supramolecular self‐assembling systems driven by chemical fuel
Authors: Wang Qian , Qi Zhen , Chen Meng , Qu Da‐Hui
Published: August 2021

A rich variety of smart materials developed via supramolecular assembly strategies have been introduced in the past decades. However, most materials reside in the thermodynamic equilibrium state, opposed to those nonequilibrium structures with sophisticated functions that are observed in living systems. To develop advanced synthetic systems, chemists have begun to focus on how to use strategies similar to those used in biological systems for fabricating artificial out‐of‐equilibrium systems. Heretofore, a rich variety of artificial out‐of‐equilibrium systems have been developed. In this review, we have summarized the recent progress of artificial out‐of‐equilibrium systems and categorized them in terms of the chemical fuel used, including adenosine triphosphate (ATP), acid/base, carbodiimide reagents, and many others. For these self‐assembling systems, their design strategies, potential applications, as well as advantageous features have been discussed. At the end of this review, the remaining challenges and an outlook of the chemical‐fuel‐driven out‐of‐equilibrium systems were also discussed. It is believed that this review has provided some insights and could be useful for those who are interested in the out‐of‐equilibrium supramolecular assembling systems and their subsequent constructing strategies for various transient materials.
Triggering flow of jammed cohesive granular materials using modulated pulsed airflow
Authors: Zhu Lizhuo , Lu Haifeng , Guo Xiaolei , Liu Haifeng
Published: August 2021

Realizing the stable high‐flux flow of cohesive granular materials is a complicated subject. We experimentally studied the dynamic characteristics of cohesive granular materials discharged from hopper under modulated pulsed airflow. Results show that pulsed airflow with a smaller duty cycle can effectively trigger the stable flow of jammed cohesive granular materials. Furthermore, under proper working conditions, the hopper flow will change from the classic arch breaking mode to a free flowing mode like liquid. The flow rate of the powder in the free flowing mode will decrease as powder bed height decreases, which overturns the consistent recognition. The oscillating shear provided by the pulsed airflow eliminates the Janssen effect and achieves a liquid‐like stress transmission, which supports the above findings. Through energy analysis, we gave the scaling relationship between the pressure gradient and the pulse parameters to cover the experimental data and revealed the internal mechanism.