bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ANALISIS PERENCANAAN PERAWATAN SPINDLE MOULDER DENGAN METODE RELIABILITY CENTERED MAINTENANCE (RCM) DI PT. ROMI VIOLETA
Authors: Firmansyah Muhammad Ardian , Syuhri Ahmad
Published: October 2022

Romi Violeta is one of the furniture companies in Indonesia. There are several production machines that are used and in the process are interconnected. The production machines used often experience downtime or machine failure, one of which is the spindle moulder machine. Spindle moulder is a cutting machine used to cut wood with various profiles as needed. Damage to the spindle moulder machine can cause the production process to stop, so that downtime will increase and the production target that has been set will be reduced. To maintain the working condition of the machine so that it can last a long time and run optimally, the initial step is in the form of scheduling maintenance. RCM is a maintenance strategy to optimize the company's asset maintenance program so that it can operate effectively. This research method uses quantitative analysis conducted on the spindle moulder machine and qualitative analysis includes FMEA and RCM II Decision Worksheet which will be used as references to identify component failures and determine appropriate maintenance actions. Based on the research results, the availability value for the spindle bearing component is 99.72%, the motor component is 99.78%, and the v belt component is 99.77%, so the average availability value is 99.76%. The value of downtime after preventive maintenance using the RCM method on the spindle moulder machine is 43.54 hours with a decrease in machine downtime of 30.96 hours or equivalent to 41.55%.
STUDI EMISI SPEKTRA PADA SINTESIS PEMBAKARAN METAL ALUMINIUM DALAM PLASMA-UDARA
Authors: Sholahuddin Imam , Sanata Andi
Published: October 2022

Pada artikel ini menyajikan hasil dari pengamatan api plasma melalui pengukuran emisi spektra selama proses pembakaran Al. Proses reaksi oksidasi Al didalam api plasma dan terbentuknya produk AlO pada tekanan atmosfer telah teridentifikasi. Karakteristik Al terukur pada intensitas puncak dengan panjang gelombang 396 nm dan AlO dengan intensitas puncaknya berada pada panjang gelombang 471 nm, 485 nm dan 512 nm. Terdapat korelasi yang cukup kuat antara visual profil api plasma dari warna putih kekuningan berubah menjadi kebiruan ketika serbuk Al terbakar terhdap perubahan intensitas λ dari emisi spektra pembakaran Al dan terbentuknya AlO. Temperatur black body dari pembakaran Al terukur dari puncak tertinggi panjang gelombang AlO (512,1 nm) yaitu 5600 K.
THE HEMP RUSSET MITE ACULOPS CANNABICOLA (FARKAS, 1960) (ACARI ERIOPHYOIDEA) FIRST DETECTED IN ITALY ON CANNABIS SATIVA L.
Authors: TURILLAZZI FRANCESCO , DE LILLO ENRICO , MAZZA GIUSEPPE , MARRACCINI DANIELE , GAGNARLI ELENA , ROVERSI PIO FEDERICO , SIMONI SAURO
Published: October 2022

Eriophyoid mites are represented worldwide by a multitude of extremely specialized species, with feeding habits largely restricted to a single host plant species. Hemp has been used for fiber, food, and medicine for thousands of years and it is still being used nowadays. One eriophyoid mite, Aculops cannabicola (Farkas, 1960) (Acari: Eriophyoidea), appears to be very difficult to control and it constitutes a real menace to world hemp cultivation. In May 2021, severe damages were found in a greenhouse of therapeutic Cannabis sativa L. near Greve in Chianti (Florence); these damages were caused by A. cannabicola, the “hemp russet mite”: this is the first record of the agricultural pest in Italy. Key Words: central Italy; eriophyoid mites; first record; hemp pest; vagrant mite
Impact of Prezi Media-Assisted Problem-Based Learning on Scientific Literacy and Independence of Elementary School Students
Authors: Kristiantari Maria Goreti Rini , Widiana I Wayan , Tristiantari Ni Ketut Desia , Rediani Ni Nyoman
Published: October 2022

The aim of this study was to analyze the impact of Problem Based Learning (PBL) with the support of Prezi media on scientific literacy and independence. The research design used was quasi-experimental in nature. The sample of this study consisted of 59 fourth grade students. Data were collected using a test and a questionnaire. The instruments used were a 20-item test to assess scientific literacy and a 30-item questionnaire to measure independence. The data were analyzed using descriptive analysis and statistical inference. Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA) was used in testing the hypotheses. The findings show that the PBL model supported by Prezi media has a simultaneous and partial effect on students' scientific literacy and independence. The findings also show that the Prezi media-enabled PBL model has a greater impact on scientific literacy than on students' independence.
Associations of Complementary Feeding Practice History and Protein Adequacy Level with Childhood Stunting in the Working Area of Puskesmas Bantaran in Probolinggo Regency
Authors: Amalia Riza , Ade Lia Ramadani  , Lailatul Muniroh
Published: October 2022

Stunting is often associated with too early complementary feeding time and inadequate protein intake. The purpose of this study was to analyze the relationship between the practice of complementary feeding and the level of protein adequacy with the incidence of stunting in toddlers in the working area of Puskesmas Bantaran Probolinggo regency, East Java. Research used observational analytic with retrospective case control design. The sample were 22 stunted group and 22 non-stunted control group who met the inclusion criteria, and taken by simple random sampling. The sample was a stunting locus village toddler in the working area of Puskesmas Bantaran, Probolinggo Regency with mother as respondents. Data collection instruments included questionnaires of characteristic, SQ-FFQ to assess protein adequacy, and microtoise to measure height. Analysis using Chi-Square and Spearman test. The results showed that stunted toddlers get inappropriate complementary feeding (81.8%) and deficit of protein intake (81.8%). Non-stunted toddlers get the right complementary feeding practices (63.6%) and adequate protein intake (59.1%). There is a relationship between the practice of complementary feeding (p=0.002, OR=7.87) and the level of protein adequacy (p=0.005, OR=6.5) with the incidence of stunting in toddlers. The conclusion of this study is that toddlers with improper complementary feeding practices are 7.87 times higher risk of stunting and toddlers with adequate levels of protein deficit are 6.5 times higher risk of stunting. Mothers should be able to increase the amount of protein intake and proper complementary feeding.
Structure and Evolution of Sensor Research to Forecast Emerging Scientific and Technological Directions
Authors: Coccia Mario , Roshani Saeed , Mosleh Melika
Published: October 2022

How do sensor research and technologies grow over time? This paper applies the network analysis with a new computational approach to map the structure and evolution of sensor research and technologies over a 30-year time frame (1990-2020).The goal of this study is to analyze the evolution of sensor research for forecasting emerging scientific and technological trajectories. Results show that the scientific interaction within ecosystem (represented with networks) of sensor generates a co-evolution of scientific fields supporting the accelerated growth of different technological tra-jectories, such as: wireless sensors, fiber optic and optical sensors, gas sensors and biosensors. These results suggest main theoretical implications that explain the evolution of sensor research with critical aspects of innovation management to support R&D investments towards new technological trajectories having a high potential of growth.
Antitumor Activity of an anti-EGFR/HER2 Bispecific Antibody in a Mouse Xenograft Model of Canine Osteosarcoma
Authors: Tateyama Nami , Suzuki Hiroyuki , Ohishi Tomokazu , Asano Teizo , Tanaka Tomohiro , Mizuno Takuya , Yoshikawa Takeo , Kawada Manabu , Kaneko Mika K , Kato Yukinari
Published: October 2022

The overexpression of epidermal growth factor receptors (EGFRs) has been reported in various human tumors, including breast, gastric, lung, colorectal, and pancreatic cancers. Humanized anti‐EGFR and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have been shown to improve patients’ survival. Canine tumors resemble human tumors in the initiation and progression. We previously established a defucosylated mouse-dog chimeric anti‐EGFR mAb (E134Bf) and a mouse-dog chimeric anti‐HER2 mAb (H77Bf), which exerted antitumor activities in canine tumor xenograft models. Here, we produced E134Bf antibody fused to H77Bf single chain Fv at the light chains (E134Bf-H77scFv). The bispecific E134Bf-H77scFv recognized dog EGFR (dEGFR) and dog HER2 (dHER2)-overexpressed Chinese hamster ovary-K1 cells by flow cytometry. E134Bf-H77scFv also reacted with dEGFR and dHER2‐positive canine osteosarcoma D-17 cells, and possesses a high binding-affinity (KD: 1.3x10-9 M). Furthermore, E134Bf-H77scFv exerted antibody‐dependent cellular cytotoxicity and complement‐dependent cytotoxicity against D-17 cells in the presence of canine mononuclear cells and complement, respectively. Moreover, administration of E134Bf-H77scFv suppressed the development of D-17 xenograft tumor in mice early compared with the control dog IgG, E134Bf and H77Bf alone. These results indicate that E134Bf-H77scFv exerts antitumor activities against dEGFR/dHER2-positive canine tumors, and could be a valuable treatment regimen for canine tumors.
Learning From the Invaders: What Viruses Teach Us About RNA-Based Regulation in Microbes
Authors: Sarin L. Peter
Published: October 2022

Viruses feature an evolutionary shaped minimal genome that is obligately dependent on the cellular transcription and translation machinery for propagation. To suppress host cell immune responses and ensure efficient replication, viruses employ numerous tactics to favor viral gene expression and protein synthesis. This necessitates a carefully balanced network of virus- and host-encoded components, of which the RNA-based regulatory mechanisms have emerged as particularly interesting albeit insufficiently studied, especially in unicellular organisms. Here, recent advances that further our understanding of RNA-based translation regulation, mainly through post-transcriptional chemical modification of ribonucleosides, codon usage, and (virus-encoded) transfer RNAs, will be discussed in the context of viral infection.
Techno-Economic Analysis of Hybrid Renewable Energy Based Electricity Supply to Gwadar, Pakistan
Authors: Ali Muhammad Sharjeel , Ali Syed Umaid , Mian Qaisar Saeed , Waqar Asad , Haroon Faheem , Alzahrani Ahmad
Published: October 2022

Gwadar is essential for Pakistan's financial stability. The third deep-water port in Pakistan, Gwadar, plays a significant part in trade between the Gulf countries, Africa, China, United Arab Emirates, and Cordillera Administrative Region. However, the load Shedding of 12-16 hours in Gwadar is the most concerning issue. Pakistan imports 70 MW of electricity from Iran. The wind and solar system are already installed but for a limited residential area. In Gwadar, there are enough renewable energy resources that can be utilized for electricity generation. In this context, a Techno and Economic Analysis is performed using the Hybrid Optimization Model for Multiple Energy Resources (HOMER) Pro. Two models are considered for this study. Model-1 includes PV/Wind Turbine/ and Battery while Model-2 consists of PV/Wind Turbine/Converter and Grid. The yearly energy generated by Model-1 and Model-2 is 57.37 GWh and 81.5 GWh, respectively. The levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) for Model-1 and Model-2 is respectively $0.401/kWh and $0.0347/kWh. It is shown that the simple payback of Model-1 is of 6.70 years, and the simple payback of Model-2 is 7.77 years. Due to the high LCOE of Model-1, its payback year is lesser than model-2. All of these facts indicate that Model 2 is the most optimal solution.
Optimization of Maize-Vegetable (Okra and Roselle) Intercrops in Northern, Upper West and Upper East Regions of Ghana
Authors: Tignegre Jean Baptiste S. , Nurudeen Abdul Rahman , Zaato Paul Alhassan , Larbi Asamoah , Rouamba Albert , Chagomoka Takemore , Kiziito Fred
Published: October 2022

Intercropping as a practice is very crucial in livelihood sustainability among smallholder farm-ing communities in many growing countries. However, for most cropping systems, the benefits of intercropping have yet to be optimized due to a lack of knowledge regarding spatial ar-rangements and planting densities. The objective of the study was to find out the profitability of maize-vegetable intercropping and the yields obtained from various spatial arrangements and planting densities of intercrops. From May to October 2019 and 2020 respectively, Experimental trials were set up in the rainy season in Northern, Upper West and Upper East regions of Ghana comprising of eight treatments each. A randomized complete block experimental design was used for the field layout with three to four replications. Data was collected on grain and fruit yield and land equivalent ratios was estimated (LER). At the end of the trial, important spatial arrangements and planting densities were identified that can be adopted by smallholder famers for system intensification. For okra, the optimal intercropping system under sufficient rainfalls was 2 okra rows at higher density and 2 maize rows at lower density for Upper West Region. In Upper East Region, the optimal spatial arrangement to recommend is 1 row of maize at recom-mended density: 2 rows of okra at lower density under well distributed rainfalls. For roselle, intercropping with spatial arrangement of 2 rows of maize at higher density: 1 row of okra at recommended density was recommended in Northern Region.
Advanced Epi-X4 Derivatives Covalently Bind Human Serum Albumin Resulting in Prolonged Plasma Stability
Authors: Rodríguez-Alfonso Armando , Heck Astrid , Ruiz-Blanco Yasser , Gilg Andrea , Ständker Ludger , Kuan Seah Ling , Weil Tanja , Sanchez-Garcia Elsa , Wiese Sebastian , Münch Jan , Harms Mirja
Published: October 2022

Advanced derivatives of the CXCR4 antagonist EPI-X4 have shown therapeutic efficacy upon topical administration in animal models of asthma and dermatitis. Here, we studied plasma stability of the EPI-X4 lead compounds WSC02 and JM#21, using mass spectrometry to monitor the chemical integrity of the peptides and a functional fluorescence-based assay that determines peptide function in a CXCR4-antibody competition assay. Although mass spectrometry revealed a very rapid disappearance of both peptides in human plasma within seconds, the functional assay revealed a significantly higher half-life of 9 minutes for WSC02 and 6 minutes for JM#21, respectively. Further analyses demonstrated that WSC02 and JM#21 interact with low molecular weight plasma components and serum albumin. Albumin binding is mediated by the formation of a disulfide bridge between Cys10 in the EPI-X4 peptides and Cys34 in albumin. These covalently linked albumin-peptide complexes have a higher stability in plasma as compared to the non-bound peptides and retain the ability to bind and antagonize CXCR4. Remarkably, chemically synthesized albumin-EPI-X4 conjugates coupled by non-breakable bonds have a drastically increased plasma stability of over 2 hours. Thus, covalent coupling of EPI-X4 to albumin in vitro before administration or in vivo post administration may significantly increase the pharmacokinetic properties of the new class of CXCR4 antagonists.
Characteristics of the Board of Directors and Corporate Financial Performance – An Empirical Evidence
Authors: Nguyen Van Chien , Huynh Thi Ngoc Thuan
Published: October 2022

The objectives of the research are to investigate the characteristics of the board of directors on the financial performance of the enterprise. Using a sample data from 52 construction and real estate enterprises listed on Vietnam stock exchange in the period 2006-2020. Using typical regression methods such as pooled OLS, FEM, REM and assessing the defects of the research model, the FGLS method is selected. At the same time, due to the existence of endogenous phenomena and the nature of interdependence among enterprises in Vietnam, research using the instrumental variables two-step generalized method of moments (IV-GMM) in order to correct for cross-sectional dependence, autocorrelation, endogeneity, and heteroskedasticity in the analysis. Research results suggest that board size, female board members, meeting frequency, and board members' education have a positive influence on financial performance. Moreover, the independence of the Board of Directors increases, the business efficiency decreases. The research also found a positive relationship of tangible fixed assets, and a negative relationship between capital structure choice, firm size and corporate financial performance.
Subacute Posttraumatic Ascending Myelopathy After Thoracolumbar Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Basu Saumyajit , Gohil Kushal
Published: October 2022

» Subacute posttraumatic ascending myelopathy (SPAM) is defined as neurological deterioration ascending four or more levels above the initial injury level and occurring within the initial days to weeks after spinal cord injury (SCI).

» SPAM is a rare complication of spinal cord injury with an incidence of 0.42% to 1% affecting young to middle-aged male patients.

» Several hypotheses have been put forth to explain SPAM, but the exact pathomechanism remains elusive.

» Treatment guidelines for this rare entity are uncertain and still to be developed.

» The current prognosis of SPAM is poor, with a mortality rate of 10.34%.
Keanekaragaman Jenis dan Status Konservasi Mangrove di Pulau Payung, Sumatra Selatan, Indonesia
Authors: Dalimunthe Syadwina Hamama , P. Damayanto I Putu Gede , Martiansyah Irfan , Apandi Ismail
Published: October 2022

Pulau Payung terbentang di hilir Sungai Musi dan Telang, Kecamatan Sungsang, Kabupaten Banyuasin II, Provinsi Sumatra Selatan. Pulau Payung terbentuk di wilayah estuari dan memiliki ekosistem air payau. Walaupun berukuran kecil, Pulau Payung dilaporkan memiliki keanekaragaman jenis-jenis tumbuhan mangrove sejati yang cukup tinggi. Sayangnya, laporan tentang keanekaragaman jenis flora secara menyeluruh di Pulau Payung belum tersedia. Penelitian ini bertujuan menyediakan informasi keanekaragaman jenis flora dan status konservasi mangrove di Pulau Payung. Pengumpulan data keanekaragaman flora di Pulau Payung dilakukan dengan menggunakan metode pengumpulan data taksonomi melalui koleksi sampel material tumbuhan. Sampel tumbuhan yang dikoleksi selanjutnya diawetkan menjadi herbarium dan disimpan di Herbarium Bogoriense (BO). Spesimen herbarium diidentifikasi menggunakan spesimen acuan yang tersimpan di BO dan referensi terkait. Hasil identifikasi divalidasi melalui referensi yang relevan dan portal basis data daring. Terdapat 36 jenis dari 28 marga dan 22 suku tumbuhan yang terekam di Pulau Payung, yakni 16 jenis tumbuhan mangrove sejati dan 20 jenis tumbuhan mangrove asosiasi. Acanthaceae, Fabaceae, dan Rhizoporaceae merupakan tiga suku dengan jumlah jenis terbanyak. Kendatipun seluruh jenis tumbuhan di Pulau Payung memiliki status keterancaman dengan tingkat risiko rendah (least concern/LC), tetapi potensi hilangnya keanekaragaman tumbuhan di Pulau Payung mungkin dapat terjadi di masa mendatang.
Kekerabatan Fenetik Heliconia spp. Koleksi Kebun Raya Purwodadi Berdasarkan Deskriptor Kualitatif
Authors: Kholqiyah Siti Faiqotul , Wahyudi Didik , Hapsari Lia
Published: October 2022

Heliconia spp. merupakan tanaman herba tahunan berbunga, dikenal dengan pisang hias. Variasi morfologi yang besar antar dan dalam spesies memiliki potensi untuk dilakukan konservasi, karakterisasi dan evaluasi plasma nutfah sebagai material dasar program pengembangan dan pemuliaan Heliconia spp. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis hubungan fenetik berdasarkan karakter morfologi 8 Heliconia spp. (Heliconiaceae) sebagai ingroup dan 2 spesies dari Strelitziaceae sebagai outgroup (kelompok taksa di luar ingroup), koleksi Kebun Raya Purwodadi, Badan Riset dan Inovasi Nasional (KRP BRIN). Pengamatan karakter morfologi mengacu pada deskriptor kualitatif, dengan menggunakan clustering multivariat dan analisis karakter apomorfik (karakter khusus yang unik suatu kelompok atau spesies). Hasil penelitian menunjukkan 91,18% karakter morfologi ialah polimorfik antaraksesi ingroup dan outgroup. Analisis cluster menunjukkan bahwa hubungan fenetik terbagi menjadi 4 cluster, dan secara jelas memisahkan antara Heliconiaceae dan Strelitziaceae (monofiletik). Pemisahan ingroup bersifat parafiletik, spesies dikelompokkan menurut subgenus dan bersarang. Cluster 1 terdiri dari H. chartacea, H. collinsiana dan H. rostrata (subgenus Griggsia). Cluster 2 terdiri dari H. bihai, H. wagneriana, H. hirsuta dan H. psittacorum (subgenus Heliconia dan Stenochlamys). Spesies H. metallica terpisah dari subgenus Stenochlamys membentuk cluster 3. Cluster 4 terdiri dari spesies outgroup yaitu R. madagascariensis dan P. guyannense. Analisis karakter apomorfi menunjukkan bahwa subgenus dan spesies memiliki karakter sinapomorfi dengan autapomorfi. Karakter-karakter tersebut ialah karakter pembeda di setiap cluster.
Halal Tourism And Its Misconceptions: A Study on The Rejection of Indonesian Non-Muslim Destinations
Authors: Priyatmoko Rakhman , Maulana Addin
Published: October 2022

The term "halal tourism" is indeed recognized in Indonesia, nonetheless, its pros and cons are happening. Unlike any other non-Muslim countries such as Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, Taiwan, and Thailand, which tend to have less conflict between tourism stakeholders regarding the development of halal tourism, the rejection occurs in Indonesia as a country with a Muslim majority population. The rejection culminated in 2019 as a political year along with the presidential elections. The rejection of halal tourism occurs in tourism destinations such as Bali, Labuan Bajo, Toba, and Toraja known as the Muslim minority population area. Based on those issues, this study uses a qualitative approach to investigate the rejection reasons from the tourism stakeholders, to provide theoretical clarification on the stigma against halal tourism, and to analyze how halal tourism branding policy in tourism destinations. The result shows that the rejection of halal tourism by the tourism stakeholders was due to concerns that there would be a change in the destination’s image. To prevent prolonged debate and possible social conflict, the Indonesian government can use another term that sounds more moderate and acceptable for tourism stakeholders in non-Moslem destinations. The use of the halal label as a destination brand should also be made by each local tourism authority so that tourism policies taken are not only top-down but also bottom-up.
Cyclic storage approach for conjunctive operation of surface and ground water systems (Case study: ZarrinehRoud catchment area)
Authors: moeini ramtin , Sarhadi kourosh
Published: October 2022

In this research, the problem of optimal conjunctive operation of surface and ground water system is investigated considering cyclic storage approach. This problem is solved here using mathematical programming and some efficient meta heuristic algorithms. For this purpose, the mathematical model of this system is defined and firstly solved by nonlinear programming (NLP) method. In addition, the performance of artificial bee colony (ABC) algorithm, genetic algorithm (GA), gravitational search algorithm (GSA) and particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithms are also studied to solve this problem. Here, two case studies, means a hypothetical benchmark system and conjunctive use of Buchan dam reservoir and Miandoab aquifer located in the catchment area of ​​Urmia Lake (ZarrinehRoud catchment area) as a real problem, are considered to study the performance of proposed methods. For the hypothetical benchmark system, the results show that the optimal operating cost and related computational time are equal to 5.2428 Billion Rials and 5400 second, respectively, obtained using the NLP method. In addition, the operation costs are increased 26.36%, 26.1%, 44.91% and 21.28% in comparison with result of NLP method using ABC, GA, GSA and PSO algorithms, respectively. However, the computational time is extremely decreased in comparison with the related value of NLP method using these algorithms. For the real benchmark system, the results show that the optimal operating cost and related computational time are equal to 139.0145 Billion Rials and 259200 second, respectively, obtained using the NLP method. In addition, the operation costs are increased 43.74%, 32.32%, and 50.57% in comparison with result of NLP method using ABC, GA and PSO algorithms, respectively. However, the computational time is extremely decreased in comparison with related value of NLP method using this algorithm. Furthermore, the water demands of these problems are fully stratified using proposed methods. The obtained results show the efficiency and affectivity of the used method to solve more this complex optimization problem.
Manuscript title The Common polymorphisms in ­­P21/WAF1 and MDM2 genes as a risk factor for susceptibility and poor prognosis of non-small cell lung cancer in Iraqi population.
Authors: Al-janabi Anwar Madlool , Al-Khafaji Salih Mahdi , Al-Saadi Maher Fenjan
Published: October 2022

Background: Cyclin dependent kinase inhibitor (P21/WAFI) and murine double minute 2 (MDM2) participate in the cell growth regulation. In malignant tumors has been found altered expression of these gene products and has been associated with poor prognosis. Thus, the current study aimed to investigate P21-rs1801270 and MDM2-rs2279744 gene polymorphisms and their impact to lung cancer risk in Iraqi population.
Methods: This study included a total of 140 lung cancer patients (101 males and 39 females) were diagnosed with non small cell lung carcinoma, compared with age and sex matched 150 healthy control individuals(105 males and 45 females), between the period of April 2017 to December 2020. The genotyping and allele frequency of C98A P21 and T309G MDM2 were examined by using PCR-RFLP technique.
Results: Compared with the P21-98 C and MDM2-309T genotypes, we found that P21-98A and MDM2-309G variants were associated with an increased risk of NSCLC in Iraqi patients (OR= 5.0, C.I= 3.2-14.2, P<0.0001) for AA, (OR= 6.7, C.I= 4.0-12.4, P<0.0001)for GG and (OR= 2.7, C.I= 1.5-4.5, P<0.0003) for CA, (OR= 3.5, C.I= 1.8-5.4, P<0.0001) for GT genotypes. AA and GG genotypes were found to be associated with poor prognosis of NSCLC patients, significant associations were observed with stage (p= 0.02) and metastasis status (p 0.003) for P21 gene, (p= 0.01) and (p= 0.04) for MDM2 gene respectively of NSCLC in elderly and smoking patients. Furthermore, the presence of both P21 AA and MDM2 GG genotypes were associated with an increased the risk of lung cancer by five folds ( OR= 5.2, 95% C.I= 3.0-7.6, P< 0.05) for homogeneity genotypes compared to those who lacked from both genotypes. These results obviously indicate a multiplicative interaction between P21 AA and MDM2 GG genotypes in the risk of developing lung cancer.
Conclusions: The incidence of both variant alleles P21 AA and MDM2 GG genotypes increased risk of lung cancer development in men, mainly in smokers older than 45 years. The expression of p21/WAF1 and MDM2 considered as two suitable indicators to predict the prognosis of NSCLC in Iraqi population.
Adverse events associated with AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine among adults in Greater Kampala, Uganda: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Komakech Allan , Izudi Jonathan , Kamulegeya John , Aceng Freda Loy , Acaye James , Nsubuga Edirisa Juniour , Nakamya Petranilla , Kadobera Daniel , Bulage Lilian , Kwesiga Benon , Ario Alex Riolexus
Published: October 2022

Background: Tracking adverse events helps to assess vaccine safety. Uganda rolled out the AstraZeneca vaccination in March 2021 primarily targeting teachers, health workers, security personnel, and older persons. However, information about adverse events following the nationwide rollout of the AstraZeneca vaccination in Uganda is limited. We, therefore, assessed the prevalence and factors associated with adverse events following AstraZeneca vaccination among adults in the Greater Kampala region in Uganda.
Methods: We used routinely collected data about AstraZeneca vaccination to identify persons who received ≥1 dose of the vaccine. Data were collected between March 10 and April 30, 2021, through telephone interviews with a random sample of vaccinated individuals. We defined adverse events as any untoward medical occurrence after vaccination and serious adverse events as any event leading to hospitalization, persistent disability ˃28 days, death, or congenital anomaly. We summarized data descriptively, performed bivariate analysis, and determined the factors independently associated with adverse events using multivariable logistic regression, expressed as adjusted odds ratio (AOR) and 95% confidence interval (CI).
Results: We studied 374 participants aged 20-85 years and found 235 (62.8%) had received only the first dose of the Astra-Zeneca vaccine while 139 (37.2%) received two doses of the vaccine. The prevalence of adverse events was 76.5% and the common adverse events included injection site redness, pain, itching, and headache but no serious adverse event was reported. Participants aged 20–29 years (AOR 4.58; 95% CI: 1.92–10.95), 30-39 years (AOR 3.69; 95% CI: 1.81–7.51) and 40-49 years (AOR 2.78; 95% CI 1.26–4.90) were more likely to develop adverse events compared to those aged ≥50 years.
Conclusion: Adverse events are prevalent among persons vaccinated with the Astra-Zeneca vaccine, largely among those below 50 years old. However, serious adverse events are rare. Persons <50 years old should be targeted for surveillance of adverse events and receive appropriate health education and counseling.
Multiple factors constrain Ponderosa Pine regeneration 9 years after a mixed severity wildfire in Central Arizona
Authors: Connolly Joseph W , Strand Eva Kristina
Published: October 2022

Background: Long lasting drought, climate change and sub-optimal forest conditions are creating more frequent and severe fires in southwestern ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa) forests. These same conditions make ponderosa pine regeneration difficult as these trees are poorly adapted to establishing and surviving in sustained drought and in large treeless areas. The 2013 Doce fire in the Prescott National Forest burned three quarters of the Granite Mountain Wilderness in Arizona USA, and much of its ponderosa pine forests. Here we report the current state of pine regeneration on Granite Mountain and the conditions of the surviving stands, as well as climate factors relevant to their ability to facilitate regeneration. With unfavorable climate conditions predicted to continue, ponderosa pine regeneration in Xeric Southwestern Pine forests is likely to fail when stand conditions are also unfavorable.
Results: Pine regeneration within the burned area was largely absent. Tree density and basal area were reduced in most fire severity classes. Significant differences in mean annual temperature, maximum vapor pressure deficit, and annual precipitation were identified since the 2000s drought began at the site. The average distance of high severity burn plots to a seed tree is beyond the suggested maximum distance of seed dispersal for ponderosa pine. Calculated establishment rates of ponderosa pine are below required levels for reforestation.
Conclusions: A combination of climate factors and remaining stand structure characteristics is constraining ponderosa pine regeneration in the Granite Mountain Wilderness. With a hotter and drier future predicted, xeric ponderosa pine forests face harsh conditions, especially considering the likelihood of severe wildfires. Appropriate management actions should be taken before wildfires occur to ensure that these xeric forests are given optimal conditions to survive wildfire.
Relation Between the Sensory Processing Skills and Some Blood Values in Children With Adhd
Authors: KARADAĞ Başak , DAĞ Pelin , ATABAY Ender , HURİ Meral
Published: October 2022

Background: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a neurodevelopment disorder characterized with symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. It is know that nearly one sixth of the children diagnosed with ADHD have problems in sensory processing skill at a level to affect the daily life quality. In children diagnosed with ADHD, experiencing sensory processing problem without a certain cerebral lesion, it is shown in researches that neural connections and dopamine has central roles. It is emphasized in studies that objective measurement methods and laboratory findings should be developed to distinguish the bio-markers and sensory processing dysfunctions that may aid in the early diagnosis and treatment stages of ADHD.
Methods: In this study 104 children with ADHD diagnosis have participated. The sensory processing skills of the participant who are conforming to the inclusion and exclusion criteria are evaluated with Sensory Profile Test Caregiver Survey. The urea, creatinine, ALT, AST, TSH, free T3, free T4, zinc, folic acid, vitamin D, vitamin B12 and ferritin values in the blood serum level are measured in fasting blood. The relations between the sensory processing skills and blood serum level values are statistically analyzed with Pearson test.
Results and Conclusions: Our study had found out that in children with ADHD, the sensory processing skills is related with the folate, vitamin B12, zinc, creatinine values in the blood serum level.
Does the Second Opinion Directive in Germany reach the patient? A parallel-convergent mixed- methods study
Authors: May Susann , Könsgen Nadja , Glatt Angelina , Bruch Dunja , Muehlensiepen Felix , Mählmann Sonja , Peter Sebastian , Pieper Dawid , Neugebauer Edmund , Prediger Barbara
Published: October 2022

Background: A Second Opinion Directive (SOD) was introduced in Germany in December 2018 for elective surgeries such as hysterectomy, tonsillotomy, tonsillectomy, and shoulder arthroscopy. The aim of the SOD is to avoid surgeries which are not medically induced and to support patients in their decision-making process. A physician who indicates an SOD-relevant procedure must inform the patient about the SOD and its specifications. At this time, it is not clear whether physicians provide information about the SOD to patients and whether and how the SOD is implemented in daily practice. Furthermore, nothing is known about how patients react when they are told that they have the right to seek a second opinion according to the SOD.
Methods: To assess this, we undertook a parallel-convergent mixed-methods study with a qualitative and quantitative phase. Qualitative data were analysed by structured qualitative content analysis and survey data were analysed descriptively.
Results: 26 interviews were conducted with patients for whom one of the above-mentioned surgeries was indicated. In parallel, a questionnaire survey with 102 patients was conducted. The results show that the SOD is not implemented in Germany for the selected indications because patients were not informed as intended. At the same time, when the right to obtain a second opinion was explained, it seemed to have a positive effect on the physician-patient relationship from patients` perspective.
Conclusions: It is possible that there is a lack of information for physicians, which in turn leads to an information deficit for patients. Better information for physicians might be part of the solution, but a negative attitude towards the SOD might also result in the low education rate. Therefore, in addition, potential patients or even the general population should be better informed about the possibility of obtaining a second opinion.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Population-based Cancer Screening in Taiwan
Authors: Su Chih-Hsuan , Hsu Pi-Shan , Lin Chu-Sheng
Published: October 2022

Background: The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has been a great burden on the health care system. It has also had a great impact on other public health issues, including cancer screening. Delayed cancer screening was also noticed in the U.S, which may have led to both delayed diagnosis and poor prognosis. In Taiwan, population-based cancer screening for breast cancer, oral cancer, colon cancer and cervical cancer has been executed for years.
Method: In this study we have analyzed the change in screening numbers during the period of 2019 to 2021 during COVID-19 outbreak in Taiwan.
Result: Through our results we found that total cancer screening numbers decreased from 307,547 to 103,289 (66% decrease) from the years 2020 to 2021. There was a 63%, 79%, 65% and 71% decrease in screening cases for colon cancer, oral cancer, cervical cancer and breast cancer, respectively during that period. A similar condition was noticed when comparing 2019 to 2021 when the disclosed total cancer screening numbers decreased by 70% (2019-2021); 65%, 83%, 70% and 76% in colon cancer, oral cancer, cervical cancer and breast cancer, respectively. Among these various cancer screenings, oral cancer screening showed the greatest reduction rate. We also compared the reduction rates taken from different regions in Taiwan. It was in Taipei, where most COVID-19 cases were noted, that the greatest reduction rate of cancer screening numbers occurred. A proportional decrease of screening cases was also noticed in all areas when confirmed COVID-19 cases rose.
Conclusion: Screening for cancers has dropped significantly due to the pandemic and its effect on long-term health needs to be evaluated. Additionally, efforts should be taken to address this cancer screening number deficit which has taken place during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Short-chain fatty acids are associated with adiposity and energy and glucose homeostasis among different metabolic phenotypes in the Nutritionists’ Health Study
Authors: Solar Isabela , Ribeiro Francieli Barreiro , Barbosa Marina Gomes , Freitas Renata Germano Borges de Oliveira Nascimento , Hanada Alfredo Shigueo , Ramos Camila de Oliveira , Sant’Ana Marcella Ramos , Candreva Thamiris , de Almeida-Pititto Bianca , Tura Andrea , Cintra Dennys Esper , Geloneze Bruno , Ferreira Sandra Roberta Gouvea , Vasques Ana Carolina Junqueira
Published: October 2022

Purpose: The gut microbiome is associated with obesity, mainly mediated by bacteria-produced short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). It is unknown how SCFA concentrations are associated among the phenotypes metabolically healthy normal weight (MHNW), metabolically unhealthy normal weight (MUNW), metabolically healthy obese/overweight (MHO), and metabolically unhealthy obese/overweight (MUO). We compared plasma and fecal SCFA concentrations among adult women categorized according to the metabolic phenotypes mentioned above and examined associations between SCFA and adiposity and components of energy and glucose homeostasis.
Methods: This was a cross-sectional study involving 111 participants. Body composition was assessed by DEXA. Energy and glycemic homeostasis were assessed by the standard mixed-meal tolerance test coupled with indirect calorimetry. SCFAs were quantified by gas chromatography and mass spectrometry.
Results: Only plasma propionate was increased in the MHNW phenotype compared to the MHO and MUO phenotypes [p<0.05]. Fecal propionate and butyrate concentrations and plasma propionate concentrations were inversely associated with total and visceral adiposity [p<0.05]. Fecal and plasma SCFA concentrations were associated with reduced glucose, insulin, and HbA1c levels, increased fasting and postprandial GLP-1 levels and more preserved beta-cell function [p<0.05]. Fecal and plasma SCFA concentrations were positively correlated with resting energy expenditure and lipid oxidation rate and inversely correlated with oxidation rate of carbohydrates [p<0.05].
Conclusion: These findings reinforce the concept that fecal and plasma SCFA concentrations are linked to specific components of energy and glucose homeostasis and body adiposity. On the other hand, it was not possible to discriminate the different metabolic phenotypes of adiposity based on the determination of fecal SCFA concentration.
Efficacy and safety profile of intravitreal dexamethasone implant versus antivascular endothelial growth factor treatment: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chi Sheng-Chu , Kang Yi-No , Huang Yi-Ming
Published: October 2022

Purpose: To better understand the efficacy of intravitreal dexamethasone implant (Ozurdex) versus antivascular endothelial growth factor (Anti-VEGF) treatment in patients with diabetic macular edema (DME). With the emergence of novel findings over the past few years, the topic warranted a new review. Moreover, we survey the possible confounding factors while comparing these therapies.
Design: A systematics review and meta-analysis
Method: The study included randomized control trials and non-randomized control trials before December 2021 that compare the efficacy of Ozurdex-related treatment and Anti-VEGF treatment. We searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE. Risk of bias tool of Cochrane was used to assess the quality of RCTs, and Risk Of Bias In Non-randomized Studies - of Interventions (ROBINS-I) was used to assess the quality of Non-RCTs.
Results: 2409 eyes from 30 studies were included. Regarding BCVA change, the overall result revealed no significant differences between Ozurdex and anti-VEGF therapies in patients with nonresistant DME, but Ozurdex group had significantly more VA improvement than anti-VEGF therapies in patients with resistant DME. In terms of CRT decrease, there was a significant difference between Ozurdex therapy and anti-VEGF therapy in patients with both nonresistant DME and resistant DME. The meta-regression revealed that Ozurdex therapy tended to be better than anti-VEGF therapy if the baseline CRT was more than 413 µm.
Conclusions: Overall, Ozurdex therapy resulted in significantly greater VA improvement and CRT decrease than anti-VEGF therapy in the resistant DME patients. In patients with nonresistant DME, Ozurdex therapy was not inferior to anti-VEGF therapy either.
Role of human capital, income inequality and renewable energy consumption on CO2 mitigation in Malaysia
Authors: Afroz Rafia , Limon Riasat Ameen , Afroz Shahana
Published: October 2022

Global climate change caused by greenhouse gases (GHGs), particularly carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, poses unprecedented risks to the environment, development, and sustainability. This study incorporates human capital and renewable energy as potential factors of the connection between income inequality and CO2 emissions. Data from 1980–2018 are analyzed using the novel method of dynamic ordinary least square (DOLS) in this study. To assess the validity of the DOLS estimate, we employ the fully modified ordinary least square (FMOLS) and canonical correlation regression (CCR). To more thoroughly examine the relationship between the selected variables, a paired Granger causality test was used. Findings of this study show that using renewable energy enhances Malaysia's environmental quality, while economic growth, income inequality, and human capital all cause environmental deterioration. As a consequence, it is possible that Malaysia could achieve its goal of reducing CO2 emissions and meeting its obligations under the Paris Agreement if it were to successfully adopt policy initiatives to develop human capital, increase the use of renewable energy sources, achieve a low-carbon economy, and reduce the income disparity.
Examining graph neural networks for crystal structures: limitations and opportunities for capturing periodicity
Authors: Gong Sheng , Xie Tian , Shao-Horn Yang , Gomez-Bombarelli Rafael , Grossman Jeffrey
Published: October 2022

Historically, materials informatics has relied on human-designed descriptors of materials structures. In recent years, graph neural networks (GNNs) have been proposed for learning representations of crystal structures from data end-to-end producing vectorial embeddings that are optimized for downstream prediction tasks. However, a systematic scheme is lacking to analyze and understand the limits of GNNs for capturing crystal structures. In this work, we propose to use human-designed descriptors as a bank of human knowledge to test whether black-box GNNs can capture the knowledge of crystal structures. We find that current state-of-the-art GNNs cannot capture the periodicity of crystal structures well, and we analyze the limitations of the GNN models that result in this failure from three aspects: local expressive power, long-range information, and readout function. We propose an initial solution, hybridizing descriptors with GNNs, to improve the prediction of GNNs for materials properties, especially phonon internal energy and heat capacity with 90% lower errors, and we analyze the mechanisms for the improved prediction. All the analysis can be extended easily to other deep representation learning models, human-designed descriptors, and systems such as molecules and amorphous materials.
Threshold uncertainty, early-warning signals, and the prevention of dangerous climate change
Authors: Hurlstone Mark John , White Ben , Newell Ben
Published: October 2022

The goal of the Paris Agreement is to keep global temperature rise well below 2ºC. In this agreement---and its antecedents negotiated in Copenhagen and Cancun---the fear of crossing a dangerous climate threshold is supposed to serve as the catalyst for cooperation amongst countries. However, there are deep uncertainties about the location of the threshold for dangerous climate change, and recent evidence indicates this threshold uncertainty is a major impediment to collective action. Early-warning signals of approaching climate thresholds are a potential remedy to this threshold uncertainty problem, and initial experimental evidence suggests such early-detection systems may improve the prospects of cooperation. Here, we provide an experimental assessment of this early-warning signal hypothesis under conditions of greater social and climate validity. Using a catastrophe avoidance game, we show that large initial---and subsequently unreduced---threshold uncertainty undermines cooperation, consistent with earlier studies. An early-warning signal that reduced uncertainty to within 10% (but not 30%) of the threshold value catalysed cooperation and reduced the probability of catastrophe occurring, albeit not reliably so. Our findings suggest early-warning signals can trigger action to avoid a dangerous threshold but additional mechanisms may be required to foster the cooperation needed to ensure the threshold is not breached.
Sensory, structural breakdown, microstructure, salt release properties and shelf life of salt-coated air dried yellow alkaline noodles
Authors: Easa Azhar Mat , Yeoh Shin-Yong , Tan Hui-Ling , Muhammadb Lubowa , Tan Thuan-Chew , Murad Maizura Murad
Published: October 2022

Salt reduction in food has been employed to improve public health. The effect of salt coatings on sodium content, sensory properties, structural breakdown, microstructure, saliva and shelf life of yellow alkaline noodles (YAN) made from wheat flour, water and kansui were evaluated. 15 g/dL resistant starch HYLON™ VII (HC) or 5% (v/v) Semperfresh™ (SC) with 10, 20 and 30 g/dL sodium chloride (NaCl) were used. HC-Na30 and SC-Na30 had the highest sodium and closest taste (5.2 ± 0.75a & 5.13 ± 0.85a) and saltiness (5.6 ± 0.71a & 5.47 ± 0.81a) perception to commercial YAN (5.27 ± 0.81 & 5.77 ± 0.76, respectively). Both noodles had more than 8 days shelf life (4°C), highest work 1st for noodle breakdown and denser appearance in SEM. NaCl increased salivary conductivity, salt release and pH. Ten percent salt-coatings prolonged the shelf life of YAN. HC-Na10 and SC-Na10 could be suitable formulations to replace commercial YAN.