bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cigarro Eletrônico: Mocinho ou Vilão?
Authors: Lima Menezes Iasmim , Mendes Sales Julianna , Neves Azevedo Joyce Karoline , Figueirêdo Junior Ernani Canuto , Aparecida Marinho Sandra
Published: April 2021

Objetivo: Discutir los efectos sobre la salud causados por el uso de cigarrillos electrónicos. Material y métodos: Para ello, se realizó una búsqueda en la base de datos PubMed/Medline de artículos completos publicados en los últimos 10 años. Se utilizaron un total de 21 artículos, según los criterios de inclusión establecidos, con mayor prevalencia de estudios transversales. Resultados: Se encontró que los cigarrillos electrónicos pueden incluso ayudar en el cese del tabaquismo convencional, sin embargo, sus usuarios no están exentos de sufrir complicaciones de salud sistémicas. Estos contienen sustancias tóxicas y no deben considerarse completamente seguros e inofensivos. Conclusiones: se necesitan más estudios para determinar las implicaciones para la salud a largo plazo del uso de este deben considerarse completamente seguros e inofensivos.
Tomografía computarizada de haz cónico como examen concluyente de hiperplasia de proceso coronoides mandibular bilateral. Reporte de tres casos
Authors: Valenzuela Carlos , Fritz Joseline , Schilling Alejandro , Celis César , Hidalgo Alejandro
Published: April 2021

La  hiperplasia  del  proceso  coronoides  mandibular  (HPCM)  es  un  crecimiento  exagerado  del  proceso coronoides mandibular (PCM), poco frecuente y que genera limitación asintomática de la apertura bucal debido a la impactación del proceso coronoides con el segmento posterior del hueso cigomático. La HPCM es un posible diagnóstico en pacientes con limitación progresiva tanto de la apertura bucal como del movimiento protrusivo mandibular. En el presente artículo, se reportan tres casos de pacientes con limitación de apertura bucal. Mediante examen de tomografía computarizada de haz cónico (TCHC), se observó un aumento de tamaño uniforme de los PCM, confirmando el diagnóstico de HPCM bilateral. La TCHC con campo de visión grande determinó el diagnóstico final, pues mostró la impactación del PCM con el segmento posterior del hueso cigomático en apertura bucal. Además, la TCHC permitió distinguir entre una HPCM y una neoplasia del PCM y/oestructuras anatómicas vecinas.
Relación entre gestión del conocimiento y desempeño organizacional en Mypes consultoras en programación y suministros informáticos del distrito de San Isidro 2019
Authors:   , Solís Ramírez Merli del Carmen
Published: April 2021

La presente investigación analiza si existe relación entre la gestión del conocimiento y el desempeño organizacional en MYPES consultoras en programación y suministros informáticos del distrito de San Isidro en el 2019.Ademas trata de encontrar la relación de la gestión del conocimiento y desempeño organizacional en empresas MYPES consultoras en programación y suministros informáticos. De acuerdo con las investigaciones relacionadas, buscando determinar la influencia de la gestión de conocimiento y sus dimensiones en el desempeño organizacional de las empresas.
Good public health logistics for resilient health systems during the pandemic: Lessons from Tamil Nadu
Authors: Adithyan GS , Sundararaman T
Published: April 2021

The article highlights the importance of strengthening of public systems and the need for rapid scaling up of access to testing and to appropriate therapeutics in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic, to have in place robust public procurement systems for drugs and diagnostics. The paper draws lessons from the Tamil Nadu experience and validates the understanding that investing in public institutions is essential for rapid responsiveness to pandemics and other public health emergencies from both the ethical and health systems points of view.
Understanding Conflict in Multisite Nonprofit Organizations
Authors: Meyer Seth
Published: April 2021

Due to distance, Multisite Nonprofit Organizations (MNOs) experience conflicts that differentiate them from organizations with only a single site. Through a qualitative analysis of interviews with 25 professionals and volunteers in a national disease-specific nonprofit, in this study I explore the conflicts that arise between headquarters and affiliate offices in MNOs. The findings reveal that some conflicts are likely unique to this particular type of nonprofit. However, other conflicts are likely representative of those experienced in MNOs more broadly. I, therefore, propose strategies for managing these conflicts.
Social Inequities Highlighted by the Prolonged Pandemic: Expanding Sick Leave
Authors: Rauhaus Beth , Johnson Andrew
Published: April 2021

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, a number of federal responses have been enacted in the United States to address the public health crisis, as well as the economic fallout and inequalities caused by the pandemic. A key feature globally in fighting the pandemic has been paid sick leave, as other nations have been successful in flattening the curve of infections by enacting emergency paid sick leave. This work explores best practices globally of paid sick leave used during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using the theoretical framework of punctuated equilibrium, this work spotlights the increased need to address paid sick leave in the United States. This work contributes further to understanding how policymaking in a federal system of government occurs during times of crisis.
Nonprofit Hero: Five Easy Steps to Successful Board Fundraising by Valerie M. Jones
Authors: Trull Crystal
Published: April 2021

Nonprofit boards play a key role in organizational sustainability. They are relied on for leadership, oversight, and strategy and to ensure that financial resources are in place to carry out the mission of the organization. Yet, for many boards, fundraising is the most challenging aspect of their role. In Nonprofit Hero: Five easy steps to successful board fundraising, author Valerie Jones applies more than 20 years of experience as a nonprofit consultant helping nonprofit boards unlock their ability to raise funds. Jones outlines a step-by-step, realistic process that is immediately useful for nonprofit boards of all shapes and sizes to become fundraising heroes.
Macrophage Metabolic Signaling during Ischemic Injury and Cardiac Repair
Authors: Thorp Edward B.
Published: April 2021

Macrophages are instrumental for the repair of organs that become injured due to ischemia, yet their potential for healing is sensitive to the availability of metabolites from the surrounding milieu. This sensitivity extends beyond anabolic and catabolic reactions, as metabolites are also leveraged to control production of secreted factors that direct intercellular crosstalk. In response to limiting extracellular oxygen, acute-phase macrophages activate hypoxia-inducible transcription factors that repurpose cellular metabolism. Subsequent repair-phase macrophages secrete cytokines to activate stromal cells, the latter which contribute to matrix deposition and scarring. As we now appreciate, these distinct functions are calibrated by directing flux of carbons and cofactors into specific metabolic shunts. This occurs through glycolysis, the pentose phosphate shunt, the tricarboxylic acid cycle, oxidative phosphorylation, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotides, lipids, amino acids, and through lesser understood pathways. The integration of metabolism with macrophage function is particularly important during injury to the ischemic heart, as glucose and lipid imbalance lead to inefficient repair and permanent loss of non-regenerative muscle. Here we review macrophage metabolic signaling under ischemic stress with implications for cardiac repair.
The Moderating Effect of Parenting on Adaptation of Children With Leukemia
Authors: Tremolada Marta , Taverna Livia , Bonichini Sabrina , Putti Maria Caterina , Tumino Manuela , Biffi Alessandra
Published: April 2021

Parents’ attitudes and practices may support the children’s reactions to treatments for leukemia and their general adjustment. This study has two aims: to explore parenting depending on child's age and to develop and test a model on how family processes influence the psycho-social development of children with leukemia. Patients were 118 leukemic children and their parents recruited at the Haematology-Oncologic Clinic of the Department of Pediatrics, University of Padua. All parents were Caucasian with a mean age of 37.39 years (SD = 6.03). Children’s mean age was 5.89 years (SD = 4.21). After the signature of the informed consent, the parents were interviewed using the EFI-C from which we derived Parenting dimension and 3 parental perceptions on child’s factors. One year later, the clinical psychologist interviewed again parents using the VABS scales. The analyses revealed the presence of a significant difference in parenting by child’s age: Infants required a higher and more intensive parenting. Child’s coping to medical procedures at the second week after the diagnosis, controlled for parenting effect, impacted upon child’s adaptation one-year post diagnosis. Specific intervention programmes are proposed in order to help children more at risk just after the diagnosis for developmental delays.
Comparative investigation into Pre-COVID-19 and Post-COVID-19 lockdown Water Demand in selected schools in Osun State, Nigeria
Authors: Ogunbode Timothy O.
Published: April 2021

The prevalence of corona virus and the novel COVID-19 disease in the entire globe has exacerbated different impact on socioeconomic spectrum in the world, including water use pattern. Thus a research was conducted to examine the comparative use of water during pre- and post-COVID-19 lockdown pattern among post-primary schools in Iwo, Osun State, Nigeria. A survey was conducted among fifteen schools which were randomly selected, but with eight public and seven private schools for the investigation. Both descriptive and inferential statistical techniques were used in data analysis. The results revealed that the major source of water to the schools investigated is ground water which is obtained through hand-dug wells and boreholes. It was further discovered that there was increase in water use during post-COVID-19 lockdown era as a result of the directive by the government that clean water should be provided for hand-washing by all schools regardless of the owner to curtail the spread of COVID-19 disease in the country. One sample t-test also revealed that there was a significant difference in water use at (p<0.01) level. It is recommended that the government and other stakeholders in water sector to ensure that all-time and non-seasonal dependent source of water be provided rather than ground water source which is susceptible to variations in water yields from seasonal variations. This will enable continuous clean water supply, for all purposes, including COVID-19 protocols.
Investigation to Track the Environmental Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Pakistan
Authors: Rehman Abdul
Published: April 2021

Coronavirus disease is a newly identified infectious disease that began in Wuhan, China in 2019 and is recognized as COVID-19. This virus has a serious impact on the planet that causes the deaths of millions of people; it produces unemployment and poverty. However, it has constructive environmental effects that reduce the amount of pollution in the atmosphere. Pakistan is also a developing economy caused by this deadly virus. Before 03 April 2021, the percentage of reported cases ranges from 682,888, with about 14,697 casualties and a total of 609,691 cases retrieved. Pakistan’s war against coronavirus can differ from advanced technical countries due to lack of resources. In this article, we will address the relation between COVID-19 and the environment in the particular case of Pakistan. There is evidence that this pandemic has lowered concentrations of greenhouse gases, including CO2 and NO2, as a consequence of global lock-down strategies.
Reproductive traits in dolphinfish Coryphaena hippurus Linnaeus, 1758 along the coastal waters of Karnataka, south-eastern Arabian Sea
Authors: Assana K. , Rajesh Mridula , Rajesh K.M.
Published: April 2021

The maturity, sex ratio, gonadosomatic index (GSI) and fecundity of Coryphaena hippurus was investigated from 347 specimens collected along Karnataka coast, south-eastern Arabian Sea from August 2017 to May 2018. Overall sex ratio of 1:3.5 (male:female) indicated dominance of females in the fishery and differed significantly (p<0.05) in all the months, except in January, May and December. The fork length (FL) at 50% maturity (Lm50) was estimated at 47.5 cm for both males and females. The pattern of GSI and maturity stages suggests peak spawning activity in August-September. However, the incidence of fishes capable spawning all through the year in varied proportions implied that spawning activity occurs throughout the year. The absolute fecundity estimates varied from 1,00,298 eggs for a female of 53.5 cm FL to 6,15,267 eggs for female of 113 cm FL with an average fecundity of 3,18,446 eggs per female. Thefecundity of fish increased with body length and weight as well as with gonad weight. The biological information on maturation, reproductive cycle, spawning periodicity and fecundity of C. hippurus in the tropical Arabian Sea could be useful for developing appropriate management tools and conservation strategies for this commercially important fish species.
A combination of two species fish culture with Labeo gonius (Hamilton, 1822) and Cyprinus carpio Linnaeus, 1758 under mid-hill condition in Meghalaya, North-east India
Authors: Das S. K. , Singh S. G. , Mahanta P. , Das A. , Devi N. P.
Published: April 2021

One of the major issues in promoting aquaculture in mid altitude region is the dearth of suitable fish species for enhancing fish production. The prevailing cold climatic conditions in the state of Meghalaya restricts the fish growing period to about 7-8 months in a year. The six species composite fish culture as commonly practiced in the lower altitude warmer region do not always perform well in mid altitude region. Therefore, a study was undertaken to evaluate a two species fish culture system with Labeo gonius (Hamilton, 1822) and Cyprinus carpio Linnaeus, 1758, for enhancing fish production from the mid-hill region. The paper highlights the performance of the two species in small ponds over a period of one year. The specific growth rate (SGR) ranged from 0.248 to 1.038 g day-1 and 0.520 to 1.831 g day-1 for L. gonius and C. carpio respectively. The combination yielded an average fish production of 2,550 kg ha-1 year-1.
Experimental Study of Cuttings Transport with Non-Newtonian Fluid in an Inclined Well Using Visualization and Electrical Resistance Tomography Techniques
Authors: Huque Mohammad Mojammel , Imtiaz Syed , Zendehboudi Sohrab , Butt Stephen , Rahman Mohammad Azizur , Maheshwari Priyank
Published: April 2021

Hole cleaning is a concern in directional and horizontal well drilling operations where drill cuttings tend to settle in the lower annulus section. Laboratory-scale experiments were performed with different non-Newtonian fluids in a 6.16-m-long, 114.3- × 63.5-mm transparent annulus test section to investigate cuttings transport behavior. This experimental study focused on understanding the cuttings transport mechanism in the annulus section with high-speed imaging technology. The movement of cuttings in the inclined annular section was captured with a high-speed camera at 2,000 frames/sec. Also, cuttings bed movement patterns at different fluid velocities and inner pipe rotations were captured with a digital single-lens reflex video camera. The electrical resistance tomography (ERT) system was used to quantify the cuttings volume fraction in the annulus. Different solid bed heights and cuttings movements were observed based on fluid rheology, fluid velocity, and inner pipe rotation. The mechanistic three-layer cuttings transport model was visualized with the experimental procedure. This study showed that solid bed height is significantly reduced with an increase in the inner pipe rotation. This study also identified that cuttings bed thickness largely depends on fluid rheology and wellbore inclination. The image from the high-speed camera identified a downward trend of some rolling particles in the annulus caused by gravitational force at a low mud velocity. Visual observation from a high-speed camera identified a helical motion of solid particles when the drillpipe is in contact with solid particles and rotating at a higher rev/min. Different cuttings movement patterns such as: rolling, sliding, suspension, helical movement, and downward movement were identified from the visualization of a high-speed camera.
Analyzing dispersion properties of hole and ring like photonic crystal waveguides by introducing systematic shift and twist
Authors: Pavan Vadapalli Durga Rama , Roy Sourabh
Published: April 2021

Dispersion engineering of photonic crystal waveguides is attractive due to their potential applications in linear and nonlinear phenomena. Here, we present a comprehensive and systematic study to achieve the increased control over the dispersion curve of the waveguide, operating at telecom wavelengths. The effect of the radius of air cylinders, and their lattice position on the dispersion features is studied chiefly in a line-defect photonic crystal waveguide. For this purpose, perturbations were introduced in the radius and position of the air cylinders. With the help of MIT Photonic Bands software, group index and dispersion coefficients were calculated to characterize the features of the waveguide. Ring like structures were introduced in the innermost rows to increase the impact to further level. With this systematic study, one can tune the waveguide with desired range of group index and bandwidth with controlled dispersion properties. Present study resulted with the flat group index in the range of 31.42 to 7.64 over a wavelength range of 7.97 nm to 30.41 nm with very low dispersion. The developed structures may find applications in optical delays, optical buffers and nonlinear applications.
Analyzing travel time belief reliability in road network under uncertain random environment
Authors: Yang Yi , Huang Siyu , Wen Meilin , Chen Xiao , Zhang Qingyuan , Liu Wei
Published: April 2021

It is necessary to understand the operation status of the urban road network, especially when the network is complicated and uncertain. Taking travel time data as the starting point, we have studied the shortcomings of existing travel time reliability indicators. Most of them simplify or even ignore the information of traffic performance thresholds. According to the characteristics of the real urban road network, by extracting the information of the subject and object of the traffic service, we proposed measurement of the reliability of travel time in an uncertain random environment, that is, the travel time belief reliability, which takes the impact of the epistemic and random uncertainty on reliability into account. Next, we established the belief reliability model of travel task under the uncertain random road environment. The model considers path selection, departure status and road conditions, and gives a path selection algorithm under time-varying road network. Besides, using the uncertainty regression analysis method, we explored the impact of road objective factors and driving state factors on the travel time threshold. Finally, we took the actual travel task in Beijing as an example to verify the feasibility and practicability of the model and algorithm.
Glutaraldehyde Enhancement by D-limonene for Mitigating Biocorrosion of Carbon Steel by An Oilfield Biofilm Consortium
Authors: Kijkla Pruch , Wang Di , Mohamed Magdy E. , Saleh Mazen A. , Kumseranee Sith , Punpruk Suchada , Gu Tingyue
Published: April 2021

Microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC) is one of the corrosion threats in the oil and gas industry. It is caused by environmental biofilms. Glutaraldehyde is a popular green biocide for mitigating biofilms and MIC. This work investigated the enhancement of glutaraldehyde efficacy by food-grade green chemical D-limonene in the biofilm prevention and MIC mitigation using an oilfield biofilm consortium. After 7–d incubation at 37oC with enriched artificial seawater (EASW) in 125 mL anaerobic vials, the 100 ppm glutaraldehyde + 200 ppm D-limonene combination treatment reduced the sessile cell counts on C1018 carbon steel coupons by 2.1 − log, 1.7 − log, and 2.3 − log for SRB (sulfate reducing bacteria), APB (acid producing bacteria), and GHB (general heterotrophic bacteria), respectively in comparison with the untreated control. The treatment achieved 68% weight loss reduction and 78% pit depth reduction. The 100 ppm glutaraldehyde + 200 ppm D-limonene combination treatment was found more effective in biofilm prevention and MIC mitigation than glutaraldehyde and D-limonene used individually. Electrochemical tests corroborated weight loss and pit depth data trends.
Mercury Methylation Upon Coastal Sediment Resuspension: A Worst-case Approach Under Dark Conditions
Authors: Monte Christiane , Rodrigues Ana Paula , Galvão Petrus , Pontes Gabriela , Malm Olaf , Wasserman Júlio , Machado Wilson
Published: April 2021

Mercury behavior upon resuspension of sediments from two impacted areas of Guanabara Bay was evaluated to assess worst-case methylmercury (MeHg) responses, under dark experimental conditions. Total mercury (THg) and MeHg concentrations were determined along 24 hours experiments of sediment resuspension in the bay water. Fine-grained Meriti River estuary (MR) sediments had 8-times higher MeHg initial concentrations than sandy Rio the Janeiro Harbor (RJH) sediments (3.4 ± 0.29 vs. 0.41 ± 0.1 ng g− 1, respectively).THg contents were uncorrelated with resuspension time, while correlations of resuspension time with MeHg (r2 = 0.66) and %MeHg in relation to THg (r2 = 0.75) were observed only for RJH sediments. These findings correspond to a 2.8-times MeHg concentration increase (ΔMeHg = 0.75 ng g− 1) and 4.4-times increase in %MeHg (Δ%MeHg = 1.0%) for station RJH.This suggests that assessments of MeHg spatial-temporal variability can be limited if concentration changes due to sediment resuspension are not considered.
Strength Characteristics and Heavy Metal Leaching Behavior of Contaminated Mining Sludge at Extra High Water Content Solidified/Stabilized with Lime Activated GGBS or OPC
Authors: Fatah Traore Abdoul , Zhang Rong-Jun , Huang Xiao-Song , Miao Yu , Mastoi Aamir Khan
Published: April 2021

Sludge management is one of the major challenges in mining activities. The direct disposal of contaminated mining sludge can bring severe damages to the environment and community. Solidification/Stabilization (S/S) is a very efficient technology for the treatment of contaminated mining sludge because it not only improves the stability of sludge dumping sites but also reduces the leachability of contaminants. Very few studies investigate the S/S of mining sludge, especially with extra high water content. This paper investigated the effectiveness of S/S for the treatment of mining sludge at extra high water content by using quick lime (CaO) activated ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) in comparison to ordinary Portland cement (OPC). To evaluate the mechanical, leaching, and microstructural behavior of mining sludge at extra high water content stabilized by lime activated GGBS and OPC, a series of laboratory experiments were performed, including unconfined compressive strength (UCS), toxicity characteristics leaching procedure (TCLP), X-Ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) tests, etc. Experimental results indicated that increasing the binder content led to increased strength and decreased leachability of the heavy metal. In contrast, an increase in the water content of the mixture resulted in a decrease in compressive strength and an increase in leachability of heavy metals. On the other hand, lime activated GGBS had substantially better performance than OPC in the aspect of strength development of treated mining sludge and moreover showed comparable capability of heavy metal stabilization in contrast to OPC.
Grid based Energy-Efficient Cross-Layer Optimization Model in WSN Using Dual Mobile Sinks
Authors: D Vimala , K Manikandan
Published: April 2021

In recent days, wireless sensor network (WSN) gained more attention among researchers as well as industries. It is composed with massive number of sensors which are independently organized cooperate with one another for collecting, processing and transmitting data to the base station (BS) or sink. Since sensors undergo random deployment in harsh environment, it is difficult or not even possible to replace the batteries. So, energy efficient clustering and routing techniques are preferable to reduce the dissipation of energy and improve the network lifetime. This paper introduces a new Grid based Energy-Efficient Cross-Layer Optimization Model in WSN Using Dual Mobile Sink (GEECLO). The proposed method involves three main processes namely grid partitioning, clustering and routing. Initially, the entire network is partitioned into different zones and then sub zones. Then, type II FL process gets executed to select the CHs and construct the clusters. Finally, dolphin swarm optimization algorithm (DSOA) based routing process takes place to select the optimal path for inter-cluster communication. A detailed simulation analysis takes place to ensure the betterment of the GEECLO algorithm. The obtained experimentation outcome depicted that the GEECLO model offers maximum energy efficiency and network lifetime.
Continuity of Essential Sexual and Reproductive Health Services During Covid-19 Pandemic in the Who African Region
Authors: Otieno George Ochieng , Ouedraogo Leopold , Nkurunziza Triphonie , Asmani Chilanga , Elamin Hayfa , Muriithi Assumpta , Onyiah Pamela Amaka , Conombo Ghislaine , Kidula Nancy , Tall Fatim , Sekpon Ameyo , Adegboyega Ayotunde Adenola
Published: April 2021

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has had a major impact on the capacity of health systems to continue the delivery of essential health services. While health systems around the world are being challenged by increasing demand for care of COVID-19 patients, it is critical to all other services including sexual reproductive health services. Countries are expected to ensure optimal balance between fighting the COVID-19 pandemic and maintenance of essential health services like sexual reproductive health. The purpose of this report was to assess and document continuity of sexual and reproductive health services with a focus on safe abortion, post abortion care and family planning services during the COVID -19 pandemic in selected countries of the World Health Organization Africa Region.Methods: A descriptive survey using a simplified and user-friendly virtual web based rapid needs assessment through a questionnaire was filled in by key informants drawn from the ministries of health from 30 countries in July 2020. The questionnaires were filled in by the World Health Organization staff in charge of sexual reproductive health services in collaboration with their counterparts in the ministries of health and uploaded in excel data sheets and categorized in to thematic areas for analysis.Results: Responses were received from 17 countries out of the 30 countries that received the questionnaires. Of the 17 countries, only 2 (12%) countries reported that sexual and reproductive health services are not integrated in the essential health services package. All the sexual reproductive health elements-family planning/contraception and comprehensive abortion care, including post abortion care are integrated in the essential health services package in 12 (80%) of the 15 countries that have sexual reproductive health integrated. Also,14(82%) countries reporting having ongoing awareness raising campaigns/communication messages about family planning, comprehensive abortion care and post abortion care during the COVID pandemic. 9(59%) of the countries reported reduction in the use of family planning services, 6(35%) indicated no changes in the use of family planning services with only 2(12%) countries providing no response. Conclusion: The survey provides information on the weak health systems of the participating member states of the WHO Africa Region and the magnitude of disruptions of sexual reproductive health services in selected countries. Further, strategies adopted by countries to ensure continuity of sexual reproductive health services amidst COVID -19 like communications, Countries finally identified key areas that need to be supported in family planning/contraception, comprehensive abortion care and post abortion care during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Adaptive Asymptotic Fault Tolerant Tracking of Uncertain Nonlinear Systems with Unknown Control Directions
Authors: Yang Jinzi , Li Yuan-Xin , Tong Shaocheng
Published: April 2021

In the article, the issues of asymptotic adaptive tracking control for the uncertain nonlinear systems in the presence of actuator faults and unknown control directions are investigated. By using the properties of Nussbaum function and backstepping technique, the problems resulted from the unknown signs of the nonlinear control functions are circumvented successfully. Moreover, a new adaptive asymptotic tracking control method is presented with the fault tolerant control framework, which is capable of realizing zero-tracking performance. The stability of the controlled system is ensured through fractional Lyapunov stability analysis. Finally, the validity of the raised scheme is verified by a simulation example.
Engineering Properties of Sandy soil Improvement with Bacillus Simplex
Authors: Bagriacik Baki , Sani Zahrettin Kabir , Uslu Fatima Masume , Yigittekin Esra Sunduz , Dincer Sadik
Published: April 2021

Purpose: Stabilization of weak soil can be achieved through different methods, some of which include: jet column, cement stabilization and fly ash stabilization. Unfortunately, the use of the aforementioned methods of soil improvement affects the environment negatively thereby leading to environmental degradation. With the aforesaid impediment in mind, the need for devising methods of weak soil improvement becomes pertinent. Methods: Bacillus sp. - a non-pathogenic organism found abundantly in soil - was investigated in this study as a potential agent of soil improvement. The usability of Bacillus sp. in soil improvement was investigated with direct shear tests and permeability tests under optimum conditions in this study.Result: Time-dependent study on the effect of the ureolytic bacteria Bacillus simplex induced calcium carbonate precipitation shows reduction in permeability and increase in the strength of the soil under study. On exhaustion of the available nutrients in the soil however, the strength of the soil is not negatively impacted.Conclusion: Microbially induced calcium precipitation by Bacillus sp. is effective in soil improvement as such it may serve as substitute for conventional soil stabilisation techniques. The ability of the bacteria to precipitate calcium carbonate in the soil leads to reduction in the permeability and increase in the shear strength of the soil.
The impact of the SARS-Cov 2 pandemic on pro-health attitudes, psychophysical condition, and the quality of life of students
Authors: Bogut Bożena , Kuciel-Lewandowska Jadwiga , Kasperczak Michał
Published: April 2021

Background: Young people follow a healthy lifestyle by undertaking various forms of physical activity. The emergence of pandemics and changes in the organization of society’s life have caused fear and anxiety about health and life. The objective of the study was the assessment of the impact of the SARS-COV-2 pandemic on pro-health attitudes, psychophysical condition, and quality of life of students. Methods: The study included 150 students aged 22 attending Polish Universities. The study utilized the original questionnaire. The questionnaire included questions about mental state, quality, and frequency of meals, hours of sleep, need for physical activity, and the impact of these factors on the quality of life during the pandemic. Results: The pandemic and the closure of sports venues didn’t significantly decrease the quality of life in the study group. Many students used their free time spent at home to sleep, eat healthily, and became interested in various forms of physical activity, which positively influenced their quality of life. Conclusions: The pandemic and associated restrictions haven’t had an impact on the psychophysical condition of the students and weren’t the cause of the abandonment of physical activity. Positive changes in the students’ quality of life were observed.
Predictive physico-chemical model for soil quality index in a long-term green manure farming system at tropical conditions, North-eastern Brazil
Authors: Nascimento Gislaine dos Santos , Souza Tancredo , Silva Lucas Jónatan Rodrigues da , Laurindo Lídia Klestadt , Santos Djail
Published: April 2021

Soil quality index shed light on soil health and its capacity to sustain high primary production. It also can assist decision-making in farming systems by integrating this valuable product into soil management planning. However, the currently existing models are based on rather local data, and thus, there is a lack of predictive tools to monitor soil quality on farming systems at tropical conditions. We characterized soil physico-chemical properties, plant biomass production under a 6-year experiment in a sandy soil from Tropical ecosystem, using ten treatments: Brachiaria decumbens, Canavalia ensiformis, Crotalaria juncea, Crotalaria ochroleuca, Crotalaria spectabilis, Lablab purpureus, Mucuna pruriens, Neonotonia wightii, Pennisetum glaucum, and Stilozobium aterrimum. We found that most of the soil physico-chemical properties were correlated with each other by Pearson’s correlation analysis. On the other hand, RDA illustrated that shoot dry biomass was related to soil C stock, K+, macro- and microporosity. Soil pH, Al3+, Ca2+, Mg2+, K+, Olsen’s P, Na+, soil C stock, bulk density, microporosity, macroporosity, and permanent wilting point were the main factors driving primary production in our long-term study. Our findings suggest that: 1) a consecutive green manure practice without any input of fertilizers after 6 years changed positively by increasing soil fertility (e.g., Ca2+, Mg2+, K+ and Olsen’s P), and improving plant growth and soil quality in tropical savanna climate conditions; and 2) the 33 multivariate predictive models may provide a deeper view about the benefits of using plant species as green manure by creating positive plant-soil feedback thus promoting soil quality.
Developing a Single-Item General Self-Efficacy Scale: An Initial Study
Authors: Di Weiwei , Nie Youyan , Chua Bee Leng , Chye Stefanie , Teo Timothy
Published: April 2021

Purpose General self-efficacy represents a global sense of personal capability across various situations and tasks. The aims of present study were to develop and validate a single-item general self-efficacy scale which balances the practical demands and psychometric concerns. Methods The psychometric properties of the proposed Single-Item General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSE-SI) was examined among 231 Singaporean adults. GSE-SI was selected through experts and four statistical methods. Besides, the reliability, criterion-related, construct-related validity and discriminative power of GSE-SI were examined. Results Three reliability tests demonstrated a good reliability of GSE-SI (.594 .607 and .726, respectively, M = .642), comparing with other single item scales. It also showed a satisfactory criterion-related validity (i.e. correlation with a multiple-item general self-efficacy scale, r = .795). The construct-related validity was supported by the correlations between general self-efficacy and six relevant constructs (i.e. positive correlations with life satisfaction and positive emotions, negative correlations with negative emotions, task and perceived stress and illness symptoms). Importantly, GSE-SI and multiple-item scale showed consistent correlation patterns with relevant constructs. GSE-SI also performed similar discriminations across three respondent clusters divided based on six constructs, in accordance with the multiple-item scale. Conclusions GSE-SI is a reliable and valid measurement of general self-efficacy and could be recommended in future research.
Assessing Agri-Environmental Indicators and Pollution Impacts on Environmental Performance Index and Agri-Economic Indicators in EU and ME countries: A Bayesian Network Based Model
Authors: Firoozzare Ali , Naghavi somayeh
Published: April 2021

Agricultural sector has a key role in relation to poverty reduction and improving food security.One of important challenges in the agriculture sector is to feed population that is increasing in the world. Agriculture has significant and negative impacts on the environment and earth ecosystems.The agricultural sector growth has made pollution and pollution has restricted increasing production in agricultural. Climate change has led researchers to pay close attention to environmental performance. Bayesian networks are relatively well recognized to be an advantageous method for different types of environmental model. This study was designed a Bayesian network model to investigate the relation between agri-economic-environmental indicators and Environmental performance Index in the EU countries compared to Middle East countries, in 2018. we showed relations between variables of model based on expert interview and previous researches. The results indicated land productivity is directly affected by node Agriculture area certified organic.We predicted with developing Agriculture area certified organic and conservation agricultural area, and productivity can be increased in EU Countries. Also, our findings showed with decreasing N2O and CH4 emissions indicators, increased Enivironmental performance index in EU countries and decreasesd in Middle East countries.Terefore, EU countries is improved agricultural practices and pesticides and fertilizer, But ME countries have not been successful in improving the environmental performance index and sustainable development objectives. Modelling of agri-environmental indicators can help to policymakers about the changes of agro-ecosystem and can use for international reviews.
A Secure Image Encryption Scheme based on Fully-Connected-Like Neural Network and Edge Pixel Reset
Authors: Sheng Yaohui , Li Jinqing , Di Xiaoqiang , Man Zhenlong , Liu Zefei
Published: April 2021

When digital images are transmitted and stored in the currently open network environment, they often face various risks. A secure image encryption based on Fully-Connected-Like Neural Network (FCLNN) and edge pixel reset is proposed. Firstly, using random noise to reset the image last-bit of the edge pixels to generate different keys for each encryption. Secondly, the image rows and columns are transformed by Cyclic Shift Transformation (CST), and the moving step is determined according to the chaotic sequence. Then, the image is diffused at the bit-level by using FCLNN. Finally, forward and reverse diffusions are performed on the image to generate the cipher image. In addition, the result of convolution operation between plain image and chaotic sequence is introduced to set the initial value of the chaotic system to establish the correlation between plain image and algorithm, which makes the algorithm resistant to known/chosen plaintext attack. The simulation results show that the proposed algorithm has negligible loss, and the decrypted image is visually identical to the original image. At the same

time, the algorithm has a large key space, can resist common attacks such as statistical attacks, differential attacks, noise attacks, and data loss attacks, and has high security.
Comparison of physical and psychological health outcomes for motorcyclists and other road users after land transport crashes: an inception cohort study
Authors: Sharwood Lisa , Kifley Annette , Craig Ashley , Gopinath Bamini , Jagnoor Jagnoor , Cameron Ian
Published: April 2021

Background: Serious injuries and fatalities among vulnerable road users on two wheeled motorised vehicles have increased across Australia and internationally in the past decade, yet fallen for motor vehicle occupants. Almost half of all reported motorcycle injury crashes cause serious injury or death, nearly double that of motor vehicle police-reported crashes. This study explores associations with sociodemographic and pre-injury health characteristics and health outcomes after a road traffic injury; aiming to compare motorcyclists with other road users and inform recovery care. Methods: An inception cohort study recruited 1854 individuals aged >17 years, injured following land-transport crashes in New South Wales, Australia (July 2013-November 2016). Interviews conducted at baseline, 6-and 12-months post-injury elicited demographic, socioeconomic, and self-reported health conditions. Results: 628 (33.9%) motorcyclists, 299 (16.1%) bicyclists and 927 (50%) vehicle occupants were recruited at baseline. Injury patterns differed significantly between groups; motorcyclist injuries were more likely lower extremity, more severe (p<0.001) and result in longer hospital stays (p<0.001). Injured motorcyclists were predominantly male (88.1%, p<0.001), were younger on average (38 years) than bicyclists (41.5 years), had lower income and education levels, and poorer pre-injury physical health than other road user groups. Despite these differences, at 12 months post-injury motorcyclists had better physical health and reported less pain than vehicle occupants. Motorcyclists displayed less evidence of psychological distress than vehicle occupants, but more than bicyclists across several measures used. Conclusions: Road user types differ in important characteristics, including pre-injury health status and recovery after injury, which influences health and recovery outcomes after land-transport crashes. This information could aid post-crash care, such as targeting early intervention strategies not only to injury types, but also to the type of road user, to improve long-term recovery.
Evaluation of Brain Microstructure Changes in Surviving Fetus of Monochorionic Twin Pregnancies With Demise of One Fetus Using Apparent Diffusion Coefficient
Authors: Huo Ran , Wei Yuan , Wang Zheng , Zhao Qiang , Yuan Huishu , Liu Ying
Published: April 2021

Objective

To compare the differences of brain apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values in surviving fetuses, twin controls and single fetus controls using diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) sequence, and to perform follow-up study to reveal the underlying cerebral microstructure changes.
Materials and methods

Thirty-two twins with demise of one fetus, 25 twins, and 20 single fetuses were included. DWI was performed and ADC map was reconstructed automatically. ADC values of certain regions were compared among three-groups, and between left- and right-hemisphere in surviving fetuses. ROC was generated to identify ADC values in surviving fetuses and twin controls.
Results

ADC values were lower in bilateral white matter of frontal lobes (left: 1.68 ± 0.19 vs. 1.91 ± 0.26, 1.88 ± 0.19, P < 0.001; right: 1.68 ± 0.18 vs. 1.86 ± 0.24, 1.84 ± 0.21, P = 0.002), parietal lobes (left: 1.80 ± 0.25 vs. 2.00 ± 0.21, 1.92 ± 0.28, P = 0.012; right: 1.81 ± 0.19 vs. 1.99 ± 0.24, 1.92 ± 0.26, P = 0.012) and occipital lobes (left: 1.72 ± 0.24 vs. 1.87 ± 0.20, 1.70 ± 0.24, P = 0.017; right: 1.73 ± 0.23 vs. 1.91 ± 0.22, 1.70 ± 0.27, P = 0.005) in surviving fetuses compared with twin controls and single fetus, respectively. In discriminating surviving fetuses and twin controls, the area-under-the-curve of ADC values in frontal, parietal and occipital lobes were range from 0.677 to 0.737. The combination of frontal and parietal lobes and gestational age had highest area-under-the-curve (0.771, 95% CI 0.648–0.894).
Conclusions

DWI is a very useful sequence for detecting underlying changes. ADC values might be effective indicators of subtle anomalies in surviving fetuses.
Trial registration:
None.
Berberine enhances the anti-HCC effect of NK cells through inhibiting interferon-gamma-mediated PD-L1 expression
Authors: Wang Kunyuan , Gu Chengxin , Yu Ganxiang , Lin Jiaen , Wang Zhilei , Lu Qianting , Xu Yangzhi , Zhao Dan , Jiang Xiaofeng , Zhou Jiyuan , Liu Shiming , Yang Hui
Published: April 2021

Berberine (BBR) is an isoquinoline alkaloid with various functions in anti-inflammation, blocking tumor immune escape and enhancing the anti-tumor activity of immune cells. However, its immunomodulatory effect on natural killer (NK) cell activity in Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is still unclear. Here, we determined whether BBR enhances the anti-HCC effect of NK cells and its mechanism by focusing on the regulation of the Programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) pathway. It was found that BBR enhanced the cytotoxicity of NK92-MI cells to HCC cells in vitro and in vivo. The combination of BBR and PBMCs inhibited the proliferation and induced the apoptosis of HCC cells. BBR increased the frequency of CD3−CD56+ and CD3−CD16+ NK cells in peripheral blood isolated from healthy volunteers. Furthermore, the expression of PD-L1 in HCC cells was up-regulated after co-culture with NK-92MI cells or PBMCs. PD-L1 knockdown increased the sensitivity of HCC cells to NK-92MI cells and PBMCs. Mechanisms for BBR blocked the secretion of Interferon Gamma (IFN-γ), thereby inhibiting PD-L1 expression caused by the interaction of NK92-MI cells/PBMCs and HCC cells. Collectively, we are the first to demonstrate that BBR plays an immunomodulatory role by enhancing the cytotoxic effect of NK cells and inhibiting tumor immune escape by reducing the expression of PD-L1. Our study provides a theoretical basis for the clinical application of BBR combined with NK cells in the treatment of HCC.
Ado-trastuzumab for the Treatment of Metastatic HER2-Positive Breast Cancer in Patients Previously Treated with Pertuzumab
Authors: Rabadi Luai Al , Cook Madeline , Kaempf Andy , Saraceni Megan , Savin Michael , Mitri Zahi
Published: April 2021

Background: Docetaxel in combination with two HER2-directed therapies, trastuzumab and pertuzumab, is the current standard frontline therapy for patients with metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer. Ado-trastuzumab (T-DM1), an antibody-drug conjugate of trastuzumab and a cytotoxic microtubule-inhibitory agent, emtansine, is approved in patients that have progressed with prior trastuzumab-based therapy. However, the benefit of T-DM1 in patients previously treated with pertuzumab therapy for metastatic breast cancer remains unclear.Methods: We identified thirty-three adults with metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer treated between March 2013 and July 2018 with T-DM1 either as subsequent therapy after progression on a pertuzumab-based regimen (i.e., “pertuzumab-pretreated”) or without prior exposure to pertuzumab (i.e., “pertuzumab-naïve”). Collected data included patient demographics, treatment history, adverse events, and clinical outcomes. For both cohorts receiving T-DM1, the primary endpoint was PFS and secondary endpoints were overall survival (OS), overall response rate (ORR), clinical benefit rate (CBR), and T-DM1-related toxicity rate.Results: Pertuzumab-pretreated patients (n=23, with 21 evaluable for T-DM1 efficacy) had a median PFS of 9.5 months (95% CI: 2.9–NA), 1-year OS rate of 67.4% (95% CI: 50.0%–90.9%) with an unreached median, ORR of 14.3% (95% CI: 3.0%–36.3%), and CBR of 52.4% (95% CI: 29.8%–74.3%), with none of these measures being statistically different than those estimated for the pertuzumab-naïve group (n=10). Treatment with T-DM1 after prior pertuzumab exposure (median T-DM1 duration 2.9 months) resulted in no grade ≥ 3 adverse events.Conclusions: Prior exposure to pertuzumab did not impact survival outcomes in patients receiving T-DM1 for metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer.