bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long Non-coding RNA CBR3-AS1 Mediates Tumorigenesis and Radiosensitivity of Non-small Cell Lung Cancer through Redox and DNA Repair by CBR3-AS1 /miR-409-3p/SOD1 Axis
Authors: Liu Shilong , Zhan Ning , Gao Chunzi , Xu Piao , Wang Hong , Wang Siyu , Piao Shiqi , Jing Suwei
Published: July 2021

Background: Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) CBR3-AS1 has important functions in various cancers. However, the biological functions of CBR3-AS1 in non-small lung cancer (NSCLC) remains unclear. This study aimed to investigated the roles and molecular mechanisms of lncRNA CBR3-AS1 in NSCLC tumorigenesis and radiosensitivity. Methods: The association of CBR3-AS1 expression with the clinicopathological features and prognosis of NSCLC was studied based on The Cancer Genome Atlas database and verified in tumor and adjacent normal tissues of 48 NSCLC patients. The effect of CBR3-AS1 knockdown or overexpression on proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion of NSCLC cells were studied through CCK-8, flow cytometry, and transwell assays, and tumorigenesis experiments in nude mice. The interactions of CBR3-AS1, miR-409-3p, and SOD1 were investigated using double luciferase reporter gene. The effect of CBR3-AS1 on NSCLC radiosensitivity was verified using clone formation assay and the single-click multi-target mathematical model. Changes in γH2AX level and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were detected using immunofluorescence and flow cytometry in NSCLC cells after irradiation.Results: CBR3-AS1 expression in NSCLC tissue was increased significantly compared with that of surrounding normal tissue. Cell function experiments verified that CBR3-AS1 downregulation could reduce proliferation, invasion, and migration of NSCLC cells and inhibit cell cycle progression and promote apoptosis. The tumorigenesis experiment in nude mice showed that CBR3-AS1 promoted tumor growth. CBR3-AS1 could regulate the expression and functions of the target gene SOD1 of miR-409-3p. High CBR3-AS1 expression in NSCLC was negatively correlated with radiosensitivity. CBR3-AS1 downregulation in NSCLC may depress the expression of SOD1 after irradiation, promote the formation of γH2AX, increase levels of ROS, and increase apoptosis.Conclusions: CBR3-AS1 is highly expressed in NSCLC, and play oncogene function through the CBR3-AS1/miR-409-3p/SOD1 pathway. Downregulation of CBR3-AS1 led to enhanced radiosensitivity, thus providing a new therapeutic target for NSCLC.
Soluble IL-2R Levels Predict in-Hospital Mortality in COVID-19 Patients with Respiratory Failure
Authors: Jang Hye Jin , Leem Ah Young , Chung Kyung Soo , Ahn Jin Young , Jung Ji Ye , Kang Young Ae , Park Moo Suk , Kim Young Sam , Lee Su Hwan
Published: July 2021

Acute respiratory distress syndrome is the primary cause of death in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia. Our study aims to determine the association between serum markers and mortality in COVID-19 patients with respiratory failure. This retrospective study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital in South Korea. Forty-three patients with COVID-19, who required high flow nasal cannulation or mechanical ventilation from Feb 2020-Jan 2021, were included. Demographic and laboratory data were analyzed at baseline and on Day 7 of admission. Older age was associated with mortality. Serum creatinine, troponin, procalcitonin, and soluble interleukin-2 receptor (sIL-2R) at baseline were more elevated in the non-survivor group; however, were not associated with mechanical ventilator use on Day 7 PaO2/FiO2 ratio, lymphocyte and platelet counts, lactate dehydrogenase, IL-6, c-reactive protein, and sIL-2R on Day 7 were significantly associated with mortality. Delta sIL-2R (Day 7-Day 0) per standard deviation was significantly higher in the non-survivor group (adjusted hazard ratio 3.225, 95% CI 1.151-9.037, p=0.026). sIL-2R could predict mortality in COVID-19 patients with respiratory failure, not mechanical ventilator use. Its sustained elevation suggests a hyper-inflammatory state, and mirrors the severity of COVID-19 in patients with respiratory failure; therefore, warrants further attention.
Multi-Agent System for Resource Adaptation in IoT to Monitor Leakage in Irrigation Tanks
Authors: Hatti Daneshwari I. , Sutagundar Ashok Veerappa
Published: July 2021

The sporadic changes in the requirements by the end users has led to the problems in managing the resources of IoT devices. The problem of managing the heterogeneous requests with the available resources in view of ensuring Quality of service (QoS) to end users is challenging issue. The proposed model inculcates the adaptation policy for adapting the resources to fulfill the requirements of the user. The dynamic changes in the environment are handled by Reinforcement learning model with Fuzzy Interference system to apply the policy. Periodically monitoring of irrigation tank to alert the flow of water above Full Tank Level (FTL) by Reinforcement learning agent, prioritization of tasks (requests) by Fuzzy logic is performed. It is done by interacting through agency, providing video conferencing or video calling facility to the user based on availability of the user resources. It also adapts according to communication and computational resources. The proposed model is simulated to monitor and control the leakage in tank. It helps to remotely control the leakages in irrigation tanks/ bridges through Multi-Agent Fuzzy Q learning model. It focuses on adapting the resources of the devices and the action considering the user resources. The algorithm is simulated in Ifogsim and python and performance are evaluated in terms of resource cost, latency, execution time, energy consumption and network usage.
Does Climate Impact Vary Across Time Horizons? A Time-frequency Analysis of Climate-crop Yields in India
Authors: Padakandla Steven Raj , Bhandari Avishek , Atluri Ajay Kumar
Published: July 2021

Climate change is a major concern the world over; more for a predominantly agrarian country like India. In this paper we analyze the time horizon dynamics of crop and climate variables at the regional level in India. We also analyze the co-movements between crop yields and temperature and rainfall to observe the coherence across heterogenous time horizons. We employ Bai-Perron structural break and Continuous wavelet transform methods on yearly data of seven crop yields and climate variables. Observed variables are analyzed over a period of 55 years from 1956-2011 for the un-divided state of Andhra Pradesh, India. The study shows that there is a steady and constant increase of around 1.00 in annual average, maximum and minimum temperatures in the state, with two observed break points at 1978 and 2002. Rainfall depicts no systematic change with fluctuations being largely random. Wavelet based coherence analysis that map time-horizon specific dynamics of climate and crops with time periods exhibited significant co-movement between climatic and crop variable. Given shifts in climate patterns and subsequent shifts in co-movements across time horizons at the regional level, policy makers and crop scientists should design time specific and locally viable adaption and mitigation policies to tackle the impact of climate on crops and livelihoods.JEL Classification: C13, Q10, Q15, Q50, Q54
Optimization of Critical Parameters for Coating of Polymeric Nanoparticles With Plasma Membrane Vesicles
Authors: Yang Feipeng , Cabe Maleen , Sanchez Veronica , Langert Kelly
Published: July 2021

Top-down functionalization of nanoparticles with cellular membranes imparts nanoparticles with enhanced bio-interfacing capabilities. Initial methods for membrane coating involved physical co-extrusion of nanoparticles and membrane vesicles through a porous membrane; however, recent works employ sonication as the disruptive force to reform membranes around the surface of nanoparticles. Although sonication is widely used, there remains a paucity of information on the effects of sonication variables on coating efficiency, leading to inconsistent membrane coating across studies. In this work, we present a systematic analysis of the sonication parameters that influence the membrane coating. The results showed that sonication amplitude, time, temperature, membrane ratio, sample volume, and density need to be considered in order to optimize membrane coating of polymeric nanoparticles.
Subgroup Analysis Makes GOLD2019's New Comprehensive Assessment More Convincing：A Cross-Sectional Study in Hunan Province, China
Authors: Dai Zhongshang , Chen Yan , Zeng Huihui , Cui Yanan
Published: July 2021

Purpose: To estimate the severity of the disease in outpatients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in Hunan Province, China and use the subgroup analysis to evaluate the reliability of Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) 2019.Methods: COPD outpatients from 21 medical centers in Hunan Province, China were stratified into groups A–D, and group D patients were further stratified into subgroups D1–D3 according to the GOLD 2016 comprehensive assessment. Demography, clinical characteristics and medications were compared between groups. Results: In 1,017 COPD outpatients, the distribution from group A to D and subgroup D1 to D3 was 41 (4.0%), 249 (24.5%), 17 (1.7%), 710 (69.8%) and 214 (30.2%), 204 (28.7%), 292 (41.1%), according to GOLD 2016. The clinical characteristics of patients vary from group to group. Some patients in groups C–D regrouped to groups A–B were all C1 and D1 subgroups according to GOLD 2019. Comparing subgroup D1 with group B, group D, subgroup D2 and subgroup D3, it was found that the demography, clinical characteristics and medications of subgroup D1 were the closest to group B, according to GOLD 2016. Conclusion: The disease severity of outpatients with COPD in Hunan Province was more common in group B and D and patients in groups A– D had different demography, clinical characteristics and medications, according to the GOLD 2016. Subgroup analysis can explain to a certain extent that GOLD2019's new comprehensive assessment is more reasonable and reliable than GOLD 2016.
E3 Ubiquitin Ligase NEDD4 Regulates Estrogen Receptor Expression and Affects the Prognosis of Patients With Hormone Receptor-positive Breast Cancer
Authors: Natori Yutaka , Suga Junko , Tokuda Emi , Tachibana Kazunoshin , Imai Jun-ichi , Honma Reiko , Azami Yusuke , Noda Masaru , Sasaki Eisaku , Watanabe Shinya , Ohtake Tohru , Saji Shigehira
Published: July 2021

Background: Neural precursor cell expressed developmentally downregulated 4-1 (NEDD4) is an E3 ligase that leads to the degradation of proteins including estrogen receptor a (ER). The E3 ligase can be a predictive marker of response to hormone therapy. We evaluated whether the expression level of NEDD4 affects the prognosis of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer patients. To support our clinical results, the association of NEDD4 with ER in breast cancer cells was studied.Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study enrolling 145 patients with hormone receptor-positive HER2-negative breast cancer with pathological stage 0–II. Their expression levels of NEDD4 mRNA were measured, and disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) were evaluated. Additionally, we knocked down NEDD4 in ER-positive breast cancer cells, MCF-7. We evaluated the expression level of ER in the cells and sensitivity to hormone therapy.Results: Mean follow-up time was 6.2 years. Of 67 patients with high NEDD4 levels (high NEDD4 group) and 78 patients with low NEDD4 levels (low NEDD4 group), 97.0% and 94.9% of the patients received neoadjuvant/adjuvant hormone therapy, respectively. The hormone therapy included aromatase inhibitors and tamoxifen. DFS and OS of the low NEDD4 group were significantly longer than the high NEDD4 group (p = 0.049 and p = 0.023). Western blot revealed high ER expression in NEDD4 knockdown cells. Proliferation of NEDD4 knockdown cells without estradiol stimulation as a simulation of the aromatase inhibitor therapy was suppressed to 53.6% of that with estradiol stimulation, whereas proliferation of NEDD4-expressing cells was suppressed to only 76.9%. Proliferation of NEDD4 knockdown cells with exposure to estradiol and hydroxytamoxifen was suppressed to 57.9% of that without exposure to hydroxytamoxifen. In contrast, proliferation of NEDD4-expressing cells was suppressed to only 73.3%. Thus, these simulations of hormone therapy showed a significant decrease in proliferation of NEDD4 knockdown cells.Conclusion: Knockdown of NEDD4 in ER-positive breast cancer cells resulted in ER accumulation and high-sensitivity to hormone therapy. Hormone receptor-positive breast cancer patients with low expression of NEDD4 had favorable DFS and OS.
Collision Avoidance and Dynamic Sleep Scheduling Technique for Cluster Based Underwater Wireless Sensor Networks (UWSN)
Authors: Anuradha D. , Suresh S. , Muneeshwari P.
Published: July 2021

In UWSN, during clustering, there may be occurrence of intra cluster collision. In order to overcome this issue, in this paper, we propose to design protocol to efficiently handle the intra-cluster collisions and to design sleep-wake up scheduling scheme for the data aggregation. In this case, the cluster head coordinates with its cluster members to transmit (append) their data packets with partially overlapping transmission times. After the CH finishes transmitting its packets to the courier nodes, it starts to receive incoming appended packets from its members. It then sends the packet to its parent CH towards the sink applying data fusion and sending the aggregated packet in TDMA period based on the receiver oriented sleep scheduling scheme. By simulation results, we show that the proposed technique minimizes collision and transmission delay.
Impact of Relative T2-FLAIR Signal Intensity of Non-Enhancing Lesions Outside Residual Cavity in Early Follow-up MRI on Outcome of Lower Grade Gliomas
Authors: Yuan Tao , Gao Zhen , Wang Fei , Wang Tianda , Zhong Hongbo , Quan Guanmin
Published: July 2021

Purpose T2-Fluid attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR)hyperintensityoutside the residual cavity is one of the important MRI features in lowergrade gliomas (LGG), but its prognostic value needs to be further explored. The purpose of thisstudy was to investigate whether the relative signal intensity of T2-FLAIR outside the residual cavity (rFLAIR) can improve survival predictionofpost-treatment LGG patients or not. Methods Clinical and pathological data, and early follow-up MR imaging of 152 patients with LGG were reviewed.We calculatedrFLAIRwith Image J software.Logistic analysiswas used to explore the significant clinicaland conventional MRI factors, and rFLAIR on progressionfree survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS).Different models were setup to predict survival prognosis of LGG. Results Higher rFLAIR (1.80±0.84) of non-contrast-enhancing lesionsoutside residual cavity was detected in progression group (n=80) than that (1.55±0.33) of non-progression group (n = 72) (P<0.001)after radiotherapy.Multivariate analysis showed that higher rFLAIR(>1.595), as well as thick-linear and nodular enhancement of the residual cavity wall, were independent factors for the poor PFS and OS (both P<0.05). The cut-offrFLAIRof 1.595 could be used to predict poor PFS(HR 0.27, 95%CI 0.17-0.42) and OS (HR 0.22，95%CI 0.12-0.40)(P<0.001).Areas under the ROC curve (AUCs) for predicting poor PFS: clinical model 0.726, conventional MRI model 0.672, clinical + conventional MRI model 0.760, clinical + conventional MRI + rFLAIR combined model 0.827; AUCs for predicting poorer OS: clinical model 0.799, conventional MRI model 0.735, clinical + conventional MRI model 0.843, clinical + conventional MRI + rFLAIR combined model 0.880.Conclusions Our preliminary results indicated that higherrFALIR (>1.595) of non-contrast-enhancing lesionsoutside the residual cavity can be used as a biomarker of poor survival of LGG. Moreover,rFLAIR is helpful to improve the survival prediction of post-treatment LGG patients.
The Impact of COVID-19 on College Students’ Physical Activity: A Protocol for Systematic Review and Meta Analysis
Authors: Ding Yunxia , Ding Song , Niu Jiali
Published: July 2021

Background: We aimed to conduct a meta-analysis to assess the impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on college students’ physical activity.Methods: All cohort studies, comparing college students undertaking physical exercise at school before the COVID-19 pandemic and physical exercise at home during the COVID-19 pandemic will be included in this review. We will use index words related to college students, physical exercise and COVID-19 to perform literature searches in PubMed, Medline, Embase and CNKI databases, to include articles indexed as of June 20, 2021 in English and Chinese language. Two reviewers will independently select trials for inclusion, assess trial quality and extract information for each included trials. Primary outcomes are exercise frequency, duration and intensity and associated factors. Based on Cochrane assessment tool, we will evaluate the risk of bias of the included studies. Revman 5.3 will be used for heterogeneity assessment, data synthesis, subgroup analysis, sensitivity analysis and generating funnel-plots.Discussion: The stronger evidence about the impact of COVID-19 on college students’ physical activity will be provided, so as to better guide teaching practice.Systematic review registration: PROSPERO CRD42021262390.
Ampere-Oersted Field Splitting of the Nonlinear Spin-torque Vortex Oscillator Dynamics
Authors: Araujo Flavio Abreu , Chopin Chloé , de Wergifosse Simon
Published: July 2021

We investigate the impact of the DC current-induced Ampère-Oersted field on the dynamics of a vortex based spin-torque nano-oscillator. In this study we compare micromagnetic simulations performed using mumax3 and our analytical model based on the Thiele equation approach. The latter is improved by adding two important corrections to the Thiele equation approach. The first is related to the magneto-static contribution and depends on the aspect ratio of the magnetic dot. The second is a full analytical description of the Ampère-Oersted field contribution. The model describes quantitatively the simulation results in the resonant regime as well as the impact of the Ampère-Oersted field. Depending on the relative orientation of the vortex in-plane curling magnetisation (chirality) and the Ampère-Oersted field a strong splitting phenomenon appears in the fundamental properties (frequency and vortex position) of the nano oscillator. Thus, we show that the Ampère-Oersted field should not be neglected as it has a high impact on the spin-torque vortex oscillator dynamics.
Decolorization of Azodyes by Chemically and Biosynthesized ZnO Nanoparticles
Authors: Swain Jasmine , Kulkarni Padmashree , Manuel Suba
Published: July 2021

Dye contaminants in industrial effluents contribute significantly to environmental pollution. Conventional waste water treatment methods are expensive and energy consuming. These limitations could be overcome by the use of nanobioremediation processes. The present work was an effort to study decolorization of azodyes by ZnO nanoparticles (NPs). Rubine GDB (R-GDB) and Congo Red (CR) were the azodyes selected for the study. The ZnO NPs were successfully synthesized by chemical and biological methods. Chemical synthesis of ZnO NPs was carried out by co-precipitation method; biological synthesis was done using bacteria Bacillus subtilis. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized by UV-Vis Spectroscopy, SEM and XRD. The UV spectrophotometer showed peaks in the range of 300-400 nm. SEM pictures indicated the presence of NPs in the size of 100nm-200nm. XRD results were analyzed on the basis of the peaks that were seen. EDX analysis showed the presence of Zn particles and oxygen particles majorly. Decolorization efficiency was evualated by calculating % decolorization by Meyer’s method. Chemically synthesized NPs showed maximum % decolorization of the R-GDB (89.058 %) and CR (88.888%). The biosynthesized NPs showed the least decolorization (R- GDB -18 % and CR 20.357 %). However, moderate percentages of decolorization of both the azodyes were observed when a combination of the NPs was used (R-GDB -36.072 % and CR- 39.824 %). Nanoparticles showed good potential for the decolorization of the azo dyes. With further optimization of the parameters the present findings show that dye decolorization by chemically synthesized ZnO NPs could be used as a probable nanobioremediation approach to treat wastewaters.
Changes in land use/ land cover and water balance components before and after dam construction in the Mono River Basin, West Africa
Authors: Houteta Djan'na Koubodana , Atchonouglo Kossi , Adounkpe Julien , Diwediga Badabaté , Lombo Yao , Kpemoua Kossi E. , Agboka Komi
Published: July 2021

The intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has predicted sub-tropical region to be more vulnerable to the effects of Climate Change(CC). Additionally, to CC, land use and land cover (LULC) changes and dam contruction often neglected, plays and important role on the spatial and temporal distribution of water balance components(WBC) for agriculture production and socio-ecological equilibrium. The aim of this study wa sto analyze and compare the changes in LULC and WBC for the periode before Nangbeto dam construction (1964-1986) and the period after its construction (1988-2010) in the Mono River Basin(MRB). To this end, the study used mainly WBC extracted from the validated Soil and Water Assessment Tool and LULC data of the years 1975 and 2000 in the MRB to explore their temporal distributions and the link in their changes. The results showed that the mean monthly actual evapotranspiration, percolation, water yield, surface runoff, groundwater and lateral flow represent 51.05%, 17.53%, 15.93%, 9.43%, 5.67% and 0.42%, respectively of total water balance between 1964 and 1986. The same components represented 51.02%, 9.17%, 20.43%, 6.30%, 10.56% and 2.59%, respectively between 1988 and 2010. The contribution of these WBC in mean-annual (1964-1986) period were for actual evapotranspiration (31.33%), water yield (25.95%), percolation(17.67%), groundwater(14.71%), surface runoff (9.94%) and lateral flow (0.40%). Meanwhile, between 1988 and 2010, the contribution of actual evapotranspiration, water yield, percolation, groundwater, surface runoff and lateral flow are 49.85%, 19.97%, 11.17%, 10.34%, 6.15% and 2.52%, resepctively. The results showed that the peaks of the evapotranspiration, surface runoff, percolation and water yield appeared in September corresponding to a month after the maximum of rainfall in August. However, our more detailed analysis showed that a significant decrease of forest and savanna and increase of cropland let to a decrease in actual evapotranspiration and lateral flow over the second period of simulation compared to the first period of simulation over the MRB scale. These findings showed that sustainable management and conservation of natural vegetation is crucial for integrated water resource management and conservation in MRB.
Clean Energy Transformation Investigation and Carbon Emission Analysis in Existing Urban Settlements in China
Authors: Chen Wei , Li Qiong , Zhao Li , Zhang Simin , Zheng Shilin
Published: July 2021

Carbon peak and carbon neutrality have been incorporated into the ecological civilization construction and social development strategy in China. At the same time, the implementation of clean energy transformation in urban settlements only relies on the mandatory provisions in the transformation design standards for a long time, and the transformation effect is inconsistent with the actual transformation demands of residents, which is contrary to the original intention of improving the living environment. A clean energy transformation investigation was conducted in the existing urban settlements in China from July to August 2020 in order to study the influencing factors and demands of residents' transformation intention in the clean energy transformation. The influencing factors and demand of urban residents' clean energy transformation intention were analyzed according to different climate zones, multivariate logistic regression and binary logistic regression. Taking Shandong Province as a case, a specific analysis of residential energy consumption data in cold climate zones is carried out, and the peak of residential carbon dioxide is predicted under the condition of different annual replacement rates of clean energy power generation. The results show that the residents' intention index of clean energy transformation is the highest in hot summer and cold winter area. The low motivation of clean energy transformation intention mainly comes from low annual income and high cost of living energy consumption considering the influencing factors of urban residents' clean energy transformation intention. In contrast, the high motivation of clean energy transformation intention is mainly from the not popular user of clean energy. For the demand of clean energy transformation, residents in cold regions have clear demand for energy-saving transformation of external walls and air conditioning, etc. residents consumption can be achieved the carbon peak by 2030 only when the annual growth rate of clean electricity reaches more than 5%.
Selective inhibition of soluble TNF using XPro1595 improves hippocampal pathology to promote improved neurological recovery following traumatic brain injury in mice
Authors: Dixon Kirsty , Larson Katelyn , Damon Melissa , Randhi Rajasa , Nixon-Lee Nancy
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUNDSymptoms associated with traumatic brain injury (TBI) can be debilitating, and treatment without off-target side-effects remains a challenge. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of selectively inhibiting the soluble form of TNF (solTNF) using the biologic XPro1595 in a mouse model of TBI. METHODSMild-to-moderate traumatic brain injury (CCI model) was induced in adult male C57Bl/6J mice, with XPro1595 (10 mg/kg, S.C.) or vehicle being administered in a clinically relevant window (60 minutes post-injury). The animals were assessed for differences in neurological function, and hippocampal tissue was analyzed for inflammation and glial reactivity, as well as neuronal degeneration and plasticity. RESULTSWe report that unilateral CCI over the right parietal cortex in mice promoted deficits in learning and memory, depressive-like behavior and neuropathic pain. Using immunohistochemical and Western blotting techniques, we observed the cortical injury promoted a set of expected pathophysiology’s within the hippocampus consistent with the observed neurological outcomes, including glial reactivity, enhanced neuronal dendritic degeneration (dendritic beading), and reduced synaptic plasticity (spine density and PSD-95 expression) within the DG and CA1 region of the hippocampus. These effects were prevented in the mice treated with XPro1595. CONCLUSIONOverall, we observed that selectively inhibiting solTNF using XPro1595 improved the pathophysiological and neurological sequelae of brain-injured mice, which provides support of its use in patients with TBI.
Investigating Source Identification and Quality of Drinking Water In Piwoyi Community of Federal Capital Territory, Abuja Nigeria.
Authors: Segun Afolabi Abiodun , Raimi Morufu Olalekan
Published: July 2021

Water is essential to sustain life, and a satisfactory supply must be readily available to promote health, prolong life expectancy and prevent diseases. This study assesses the sources and quality of drinking water in Piwoyi community of Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria. Thirty-five (35) Boreholes and Two (2) Sachet water were identified sources of drinking water in Piwoyi Community. Six Samples (5 Boreholes and 1Sachet water) were selected at random and analyzed in the laboratory. The Physicochemical parameters examined include electrical conductivity (EC), pH, temperature, turbidity, dissolve oxygen (DO), chloride, total hardness, alkalinity, nitrate, calcium, magnesium, phosphate, phosphorous, sulphate, sodium, potassium, fluoride, bicarbonate, nitrate-nitrogen, nitrite, copper, iron and zinc; and Microbiological parameters include Coliforms, E-coli and Faecal Strep. The results of analysis shows significant concentration of physicochemical and microbiological parameters in the samples of water analyzed according to Nigerian Standard for Drinking Water Quality thereby makes the water unsafe for drinking. Drinking from these sources of water will pose serious health risk to the people of Piwoyi Community. Therefore, the study helps to identify the contaminated locations as well as assist to follow emerging remedial measures toward controlling the contamination source in the community. It also recommends continuous monitoring and enforcement of environmental violations, aggressive sensitization on water sanitation and hygiene; adequate purification of water at domestic level; and government support on potable water supply and establish reasonable management strategies for sustainable water quality protection toward protecting public health.
Migrantes bolivianos/as y luchas por el derecho a la ciudad en Argentina. Una revisión crítica de la perspectiva de la Autonomía de las Migraciones
Authors: Rodrigo Federico
Published: July 2021

En este artículo se desarrolla un abordaje de las disputas en torno al “derecho a la ciudad” que en los últimos años protagonizan bolivianos/as asentados/as en La Plata, en el Área Metropolitana de Buenos Aires en la Argentina. A partir de analizar sus características y de reconocer las condiciones sociales y políticas que las posibilitaron, se presenta una reflexión crítica sobre la conceptualización de las “luchas migrantes” desarrollada por algunos/as exponentes de la Autonomía de las Migraciones buscando ampliar y complejizar su lectura. En contraposición a lo planteado por esta perspectiva, concluimos que los conflictos estudiados no se emprenden contra el régimen de nacionalidad-ciudadanía cuestionando su existencia y que se desarrollan imbricados con los mecanismos y técnicas de control estatales. Es decir, cuando los/as migrantes pueden acceder a la regularidad y a documentación en sus contextos de asentamiento, se valen de los capitales y posiciones que les habilita el marco institucional para disputar el lugar de los extranjeros/as en la nación y ampliar sus derechos y/o su efectivización.
How does fibromyalgia affect sleep quality and quality of life in patients with metabolic syndrome?
Authors: DEMİRHAN Esma , ATAR Sevgi , FERHATLAR Nur , KURU Ömer
Published: July 2021

Aim: In this study, we aimed to investigate the prevalence of fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) in patients with metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its effects on sleep quality and quality of life (QoL).Methods: The study included a total of 84 (56 females, 28 males) patients with MetS, with a mean age of 57.5 (34–74) years and mean body mass index of 32.5 (25–48.9) kg/m2. MetS was defined according to the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III criteria. The FMS diagnosis was made based on the 2013 American College of Rheumatology Alternative Criteria. QoL and sleep quality were evaluated by the Short Form 36 (SF-36) and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, respectively.Results: All patients had diabetes mellitus and were obese or overweight. Of all patients, 73.8% had poor sleep quality and 51.2% had FMS. Patients with both MetS and FMS had a statistically significant female predominance (p<0.001). Impaired sleep was present in 62.9% of patients with both MetS and FMS and 37.1% of patients with MetS only (p<0.001). All SF-36 domain scores were statistically significantly lower in the MetS+FMS group than in the MetS group (p<0.001)Conclusion: The frequency of FMS is high in patients with MetS. Sleep quality and QoL are impaired in the presence of FMS or MetS alone. The co-presence of these conditions causes poorer sleep quality and worse QoL. FMS should be considered in the treatment and followup of patients with MetS.
Noah’s Ark and the Ark of the Covenant
Authors: Adamczewski Bartosz
Published: July 2021

The similarities between Noah’s ark and the saving boat in Mesopotamian flood accounts are widely known. Likewise known are the links between Noah’s ark and the chest of Moses (Exod 2:3). However, the connections between the “chest” of Noah and the “chest” of the testimony have not hitherto drawn adequate scholarly attention. The article explores these connections on both the linguistic and the conceptual level. Moreover, it investigates their function in hypertextual links of the Genesis flood account to earlier Israelite literary works, especially the book of Deuteronomy and the book of Joshua.
Journey of MOSFET from Planar to Gate All Around: A Review
Authors: Nanda Umakanta , Bhol Krutideepa , Jena Biswajit
Published: July 2021

:

With the continuous miniaturization in device dimension to reach the expectation raised by
semiconductor users, the shape and size of the MOSFET are changing periodically. The journey started
in the year 1960, reached the milestone, and still going on to create history. Due to continuous
downscaling, the device dimensions have already reached the critical limit and further miniaturization
is a challenge. As a result of which some unwanted effects were raised unknowingly to suppress the
device performances while entering into nanoscale. To overcome these kinds of barriers, different device
architectures were proposed to keep the journey on. This paper focused on those types of advanced
structures in MOSFET, which kept Moore’s law alive.
Recent Patents and Potential Applications of Homogenisation Techniques
in Drug Delivery Systems
Authors: Dureja Harish , Khanuja Harpreet Kaur
Published: July 2021

Background:

The term homogenise means "to force or provide coalesce". Homogenisation
is a process to attain homogenous particle size. The objective of the homogenisation process is to use
fluid force to split the fragments or tiny particles contained in the fluids into very small dimensions and
form a sustainable dispersion suitable for further production.

Methods:

The databases were collected through Scopus, google patent, science web, google scholar,
PubMed on the concept of homogenisation. The data obtained were systematically investigated.

Results:

The present study focus on the use of the homogenisation in drug delivery system. The aim of
homogenisation process is to achieve the particle size in micro-and nano- range as it affects the different
parameters in the formulation and biopharmaceutical profile of the drug. The particle size reduction
plays a key role in influencing drug dissolution and absorption. The reduced particle size enhances the
stability and therapeutic efficacy of the drug. Homogenization technology ensures to achieve effective,
clinically efficient and targeted drug delivery with the minimal side effect.

Conclusion:

Homogenization technology has been shown to be an efficient and easy method of size
reduction to increase solubility and bioavailability, stability of drug carriers. This article gives an overview
of the process attributes affecting the homogenization process, the patenting of homogeniser types,
design, the geometry of valves and nozzles and its role in drug delivery.
La Educación virtual. Diseño de cursos virtuales
Authors: Estrada Sentí Vivian , Febles Rodríguez Juan Pedro , Passailaigue Baquerizo Roberto M. , Ortega Santos Carlos Ernesto , León Mendoza Marlena
Published: July 2021

El libro que un colectivo de autores de la Universidad Tecnológica ECOTEC, Ecuador y la Universidad de las Ciencias Informáticas, Cuba, pone a disposición de los lectores interesados, contiene los fundamentos teórico-prácticos de la educación virtual para el diseño, elaboración e implementación de cursos online. En mi opinión, la principal virtud del texto es el tratamiento dado a diferentes situaciones que ayudan a lograr un cambio positivo de mentalidad sobre las posibilidades de esta modalidad educativa, pues en algunos docentes pudiera existir una percepción negativa. También el libro destaca el importante papel que el docente desempeña como guía del proceso formador, la preparación para el manejo de herramientas tecnológicas, metodológicas y de comunicación, para lograr éxitos en los diferentes programas educativos.
Más acá de mis circunstancias
Authors: Samaniego Torres David
Published: July 2021

A la honra de ser solicitada para poner unas líneas iniciales a este libro del Dr. David Samaniego Torres, se une el placer de la lectura, o más bien diría de la relectura; ya que por lo menos algunos de los artículos que aparecen en esta recopilación de los muchos publicados por el Dr. Samaniego a lo largo de los últimos años en su columna de diario El Universo, he tenido la satisfacción de conocerlos a través de la página editorial del prestigioso periódico guayaquileño.
Competencias docentes en la enseñanza de la educación superior en el Ecuador
Authors: Colina Vargas Alejandra Mercedes , Azcárate Goded Pilar , Bustamante Chan Monserratt , León Rodríguez Giraldo de la Caridad , Avilés Vera María Del Pilar , Hidalgo Larrea Jorge , Vera Lucio Néstor , Vásquez Bermúdez Mitchell , Marrero Sánchez Odalys , Muñoz Verdezoto Patricia Jacqueline , Carpio Camargo Antonio , Serrano Rodríguez Rocío , Sánchez Tortosa Francisco
Published: July 2021

Este libro compila una serie de investigaciones donde se destaca la importancia de las competencias en la docencia universitaria, como el conjunto de habilidades, conocimientos y actitudes que promuevan un entorno de aprendizaje efectivo, requiriendo que el docente sea más allá de un facilitador de contenidos, un integrador por medio de experiencias cotidianas de la formación del estudiante. Esta compilación recoge los seis mejores trabajos de investigación presentados en el Área de Conocimiento Gestión de los Procesos de la Educación Superior del II Congreso Sociedad del Conocimiento: Retos y Perspectivas de la Universidad Tecnológica ECOTEC.
Estadistica aplicada al turismo utilizando SPSS y Statgraphics Plus
Authors: González Laucirica Angela María
Published: July 2021

El libro que a continuación se presenta, aborda variadas herramientas estadísticas aplicadas en el ámbito de los estudios o investigaciones turísticas. Con los avances de las tecnologías informáticas, cada una de las técnicas aquí abordadas, son llevadas a cabo mediante paquetes estadísticos tales como: el STATGRAPHICS Plus y el programa profesional SPSS. Esta obra posee como objetivo fundamental, mostrar cómo se emplea cada una de las herramientas estadísticas de mayor utilización en la investigación turística, mediante el procesamiento con paquetes o programas informáticos, por tanto, pretende viabilizar la obtención de los resultados para su posterior análisis, evitando los extensos cálculos y fórmulas que se llevan a cabo a mano alzada
La evaluación del desempeño del docente universitario. Experiencias institucionales y nacionales
Authors: Almuiñas Rivero José Luis , Galarza López Judith , Fernández Lamarra Norberto , Coppola Natalia , Galarza López Judith , de Melo Pedro Antônio , Schlickmann Raphael , Cayo Zenteno Aníbal Jorge , Amechazurra Tam Olbeida , Márquez Sánchez Fidel , Passailaigue Baquerizo Roberto , Aranda Aranda Alcides , González Samé Héctor , Romillo Tarke Antonio , Taboada Zamora Adianez , Suárez Suárez Gilberto , Rouco Albellán Zenaida , Iglesias León Miriam , Esquivel García Renier , Carbonell Duménigo Alejandro , Guarepe Rosillo Yenni , Pérez Zulueta Mónica Angelina , Marrero Sánchez Odalys , Rodríguez García Niurka , Alpízar Fernández Raúl , Urquíola Sánchez Orquídea , Baute Álvarez Luisa M. , Domínguez Domínguez Magalys , Alpízar Fernández Raúl
Published: July 2021

La inestabilidad, complejidad y turbulencia del mundo actual, conforman algunos de los rasgos distintivos del panorama internacional con relación al de épocas anteriores. Por ello, acontecimientos de diferente magnitud e intensidad se han convertido en los factores más atemorizantes y de difícil manejo para todas las organizaciones. La crisis sistémica mundial que incluye, entre otros, los aspectos económicosfinancieros, energéticos, alimentarios, ambientales y de gobernabilidad, son ejemplos fehacientes del panorama nada agradable que desafía a todos los países. Por otro lado, existe en el planeta un número creciente de personas que carecen de vivienda, alimentos, agua, salud, educación y empleo, por solo mencionar algunos sectores que están siendo deprimidos tras el caos creado por dicha crisis, y que ya no constituye una sorpresa para nadie, dado los tiempos difíciles que vive la humanidad. Al parecer, si no hay una acción solidaria y consciente de todos los países, muchos de los problemas actuales se mantendrán en el futuro, lo que amenaza, inclusive, la supervivencia de la especie humana.
Ambientes de aprendizajes mixtos: Modelos y desarrollo de competencias docentes
Authors: Alcívar García Gilda Natalia , Noa Silverio Luisa , León Rodríguez Giraldo de la Caridad
Published: July 2021

El libro “Ambientes de aprendizaje mixtos. Modelos y desarrollo de competencias docentes.” es el resultado de una investigación en el área de la gestión del conocimiento donde se brinda especial importancia a la inclusión de las tecnologías de la información y las comunicaciones, como medio para propiciar la enseñanza-aprendizaje en los actuales escenarios de la educación superior en el Ecuador. Su presentación en tres capítulos propicia la debida comprensión del contenido de manera independiente, la primera parte aborda de manera general el rol del docente y las habilidades requeridas para su correcto desempeño profesional; en la segunda parte hace referencia a los aspectos específicos y distintivos de modelos de aprendizaje mixtos; por último, la tercera parte asume una propuesta de un modelo para facilitarle al docente un mejor desempeño en la enseñanza superior. Por lo que es oportuno destacar que, de esta manera, la obra recoge importantes criterios tanto teóricos como prácticos sobre su principal objetivo: el desarrollo de competencias docentes.
EFFECT OF MODIFIEDPULMONARY REHABILITATION IN PROMPT RESTORATION OF FUNCTIONAL INDEPENDENCE: A POST COVID CASE REPORT
Authors: Pallavi R. Bhakaney
Published: July 2021

Novel coronavirus (COVID-19) also known as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is known to cause severe pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome which causes breathing difficulty requiring ICU management and assisted ventilation. A male patient, 50 years old was admitted to the hospital with complaints of breathlessness, morning chest pain with palpitations and low saturation level, and hypoxia on room air. The patient was a known case of COVID-19. ABG revealed metabolic alkalosis with partially compensated respiratory acidosis. CBC revealed leukocytosis suggestive of infection and HB count was decreased. HRCT thorax was done given COVID positive PCR test and was suggestive of multiple patchy ground-glass attenuations in the left upper and bilateral lower lobes of lungs. A repeat HRCT thorax was done after 3 months, which was suggestive of diffuse patchy ground-glass opacities with interloper septal segment giving crazy paving pattern and consolidation in both lungs. Physiotherapy intervention included patient education, breathing retraining, airway clearance techniques, positioning, walking program with supplemented oxygen, and psychological support. Outcome measures have shown enhancement in functional independence and performance of activities of daily living. Modified pulmonary rehabilitation has worked efficiently in improving the general condition of a post COVID patient.
PREPARATION, CHARACTERIZATION AND DISSOLUTION OF SOLVENT EVAPORATED SIMVASTATIN SOLID DISPERSIONS
Authors: Nanda Arun
Published: July 2021

Simvastatin an antihyperlipidemic BCS class II drug, suffering from poor water solubility. This problem may affect the bioavailability as well as pharmacological action of the drug. To overcome this solubility issue, solid dispersions of simvastatin were prepared and compared with marketed formulation “SIMVOTIN 20” in this study. Solid dispersions of simvastatin were prepared by using the solvent evaporation method. Solid dispersions of simvastatin with PVP K90 (1:1-1:5), HPMC E50 (1:1-1:5), and Poloxamer 450 (1:1 to 1:3) with and without 1% Sodium lauryl sulfate were prepared by a solvent evaporation method. The characterization studies such as Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Hot stage microscopy (HSM), powdered X-ray crystallographic studies (PXRD) were performed to evaluate physiochemical change in the optimized formulation. The dissolution test showed the enhancement of dissolution as compared to the pure drug, physical mixture and marketed formulation “SIMVOTIN 20” in all three types of formulation, but formulation containing ratio 1:3:1 (simvastatin: Poloxamer: 1% SLS) showed the faster drug release as compared to other formulations. The Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR) study showed no interaction between the drug and polymers. The differential scanning colorimetry (DSC) and hot stage Microscopy (HSM) showed change in nature of the drug further verified by powdered X-ray crystallographic studies (PXRD) study. These studies showed the amorphous nature of the formulation may be a reason for enhancement of dissolution rate. Hence solid dispersion formulation may be an effective approach for solubility enhancement of a BCS Class II drug.
Dari “Diislamkan” ke “Dipestakan”: Pergeseran Makna Mujêlisên (Khitanan) pada Masyarakat Gayo
Authors: Bakti Indra Setia , Harinawati  , Ikramatoun Siti
Published: July 2021

This study aims to describe the meaning shift of mujêlisên in Gayo society. The meaning given to the mujêlisên tradition has not been constant at all times. In the Gayo lens traditional, mujêlisên means something Islamic or "to be Islamic". So the activities carried out are directed at actions that are nuanced with spirituality. The study was qualitative research. This study found that over time, the meaning of the mujêlisên tradition was shifted. In praxis, the spirituality aspect not dominates the discourse but has been covered by profane culture festivity practices. It is supported by the various easily accessible facilities to fulfil the consumptive desires of festivity actors.

Abstrak

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan pergeseran makna mujêlisên pada masyarakat Gayo. Makna yang diberikan terhadap tradisi mujêlisên pada masyarakat Gayo tidak selalu ajeg dari masa ke masa. Dalam lensa adat Gayo, sunatan atau mujêlisên bermakna diislamkan, sehingga aktivitas yang dilakukan diwarnai tindakan-tindakan yang mengarah pada aspek spiritualitas. Peneliti menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif guna mengungkap dan merefleksikan pergeseran makna pada tradisi mujêlisên. Penelitian ini menemukan bahwa seiring perkembangan zaman, pemaknaan tradisi mujêlisên mulai ikut bergeser. Pada level praksis, gagasan spiritualitas tidak lagi mendominasi wacana, namun sudah ditutupi oleh praktik budaya pesta yang profan. Hal ini didukung oleh berbagai sarana yang tersedia dan mudah diakses untuk memenuhi hasrat konsumtif pelaku pesta.