bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eudragit®: A Versatile Family of Polymers for Hot Melt Extrusion and 3D Printing Processes in Pharmaceutics
Authors: dos Santos Juliana , da Silva Guilherme Silveira , Velho Maiara Callegaro , Beck Ruy Carlos Ruver
Published: September 2021

Eudragit® polymers are polymethacrylates highly used in pharmaceutics for the development of modified drug delivery systems. They are widely known due to their versatility with regards to chemical composition, solubility, and swelling properties. Moreover, Eudragit polymers are thermoplastic, and their use has been boosted in some production processes, such as hot melt extrusion (HME) and fused deposition modelling 3D printing, among other 3D printing techniques. Therefore, this review covers the studies using Eudragit polymers in the development of drug delivery systems produced by HME and 3D printing techniques over the last 10 years. Eudragit E has been the most used among them, mostly to formulate immediate release systems or as a taste-masker agent. On the other hand, Eudragit RS and Eudragit L100-55 have mainly been used to produce controlled and delayed release systems, respectively. The use of Eudragit polymers in these processes has frequently been devoted to producing solid dispersions and/or to prepare filaments to be 3D printed in different dosage forms. In this review, we highlight the countless possibilities offered by Eudragit polymers in HME and 3D printing, whether alone or in blends, discussing their prominence in the development of innovative modified drug release systems.
Balance of Drug Residence and Diffusion in Lacrimal Fluid Determine Ocular Bioavailability in In Situ Gels Incorporating Tranilast Nanoparticles
Authors: Minami Misa , Otake Hiroko , Nakazawa Yosuke , Okamoto Norio , Yamamoto Naoki , Sasaki Hiroshi , Nagai Noriaki
Published: September 2021

We previously designed ophthalmic formulations (nTRA) containing tranilast nanoparticles (Tra-NPs) with high uptake into ocular tissues. In this study, we used in situ gel (ISG) bases comprising combinations of pluronic F127 (F127) and methylcellulose (MC/F127), pluronic F68 (F68/F127), and Carbopol (Car/F127), and we developed in situ gels incorporating Tra-NPs (Tra-NP-incorporated ISNGs) such as nTRA-F127, nTRA-MC/F127, nTRA-F68/F127, and nTRA-Car/F127. Moreover, we demonstrated the therapeutic effect on conjunctival inflammation using lipopolysaccharide-induced rats. Each Tra-NP-incorporated ISNG was prepared by the bead mill method, the particle size was 40–190 nm, and the tranilast release and diffusion from formulation were nTRA > nTRA-F127 > nTRA-F68/F127 > nTRA-Car/F127 > nTRA-MC/F127. In the Tra-NP-incorporated ISNGs, the tranilast residence time in the lacrimal fluid, cornea, and conjunctiva was prolonged, although the Cmax was attenuated in comparison with nTRA. On the other hand, no significant difference in conjunctival inflammation between non- and nTRA-F127-instilled rats was found; however, the nTRA-F68/F127, nTRA-Car/F127, and nTRA-MC/F127 (combination-ISG) attenuated the vessel leakage, nitric oxide, and tumor necrosis factor-α expression. In particular, nTRA-F68/F127 was significant in preventing the conjunctival inflammation. In conclusion, we found that the combination-ISG base prolonged the residence time of Tra-NPs; however, Tra-NP release from the formulation was attenuated, and the Tmax was delayed longer than that in nTRA. The balance of drug residence and diffusion in lacrimal fluid may be important in providing high ocular bioavailability in formulations containing solid nanoparticles.
siRNA-Loaded Hydroxyapatite Nanoparticles for KRAS Gene Silencing in Anti-Pancreatic Cancer Therapy
Authors: Luo Dandan , Xu Xiaochun , Iqbal M. Zubair , Zhao Qingwei , Zhao Ruibo , Farheen Jabeen , Zhang Quan , Zhang Peiliang , Kong Xiangdong
Published: September 2021

Pancreatic carcinoma (PC) is greatly induced by the KRAS gene mutation, but effective targeted delivery for gene therapy has not existed. Small interfering ribonucleic acid (siRNA) serves as an advanced therapeutic modality and holds great promise for cancer treatment. However, the development of a non-toxic and high-efficiency carrier system to accurately deliver siRNA into cells for siRNA-targeted gene silencing is still a prodigious challenge. Herein, polyethylenimine (PEI)-modified hydroxyapatite (HAp) nanoparticles (HAp-PEI) were fabricated. The siRNA of the KRAS gene (siKras) was loaded onto the surface of HAp-PEI via electrostatic interaction between siRNA and PEI to design the functionalized HAp-PEI nanoparticle (HAp-PEI/siKras). The HAp-PEI/siKras was internalized into the human PC cells PANC-1 to achieve the maximum transfection efficiency for active tumor targeting. HAp-PEI/siKras effectively knocked down the expression of the KRAS gene and downregulated the expression of the Kras protein in vitro. Furthermore, the treatment with HAp-PEI/siKras resulted in greater anti-PC cells’ (PANC-1, BXPC-3, and CFPAC-1) efficacy in vitro. Additionally, the HAp-PEI exhibited no obvious in vitro cytotoxicity in normal pancreatic HPDE6-C7 cells. These findings provided a promising alternative for the therapeutic route of siRNA-targeted gene engineering for anti-pancreatic cancer therapy.
Establishment of a Framework to Support Multi-Faceted Initiatives for Pharmacy-Practice Transformation: Lessons Learned
Authors: Robinson Renee , O’Connor Shanna K. , Hruza Hayli , Nguyen Elaine , Biddle Michael A. , Jaglowicz Angela , Wadsworth Thomas G.
Published: September 2021

We describe the first two years of a multifaceted, five-year program to support sustainable pharmacist-provided health services in Alaska. In 2018, the Alaska Pharmacists Association funded the Sustainable Education and Training Model under Pharmacist as Providers (SETMuPP) to train and support pharmacists to navigate the insurance medical billing process for nondispensing healthcare services. The SETMuPP employed a three-pillar implementation approach: (1) training and practice support infrastructure, (2) PharmD curriculum augmentation, and (3) advocacy and legislative support. The first two years have demonstrated the effectiveness of triad partnerships between professional associations, state policy makers, and academic centers to catalyze meaningful practice transformation.
Mycogenic Nano-Complex for Plant Growth Promotion and Bio-Control of Pythium aphanidermatum
Authors: Moustafa Shaima M.N. , Taha Rania H.
Published: September 2021

(1) Background: biological way is one of the most ecofriendly and safe strategies for nanomaterials synthesis. So, biosynthesis-green method was used for the preparation of Zn(II) complex (in the Nano scale) from the reaction of the schiff base ligand 2,2′-((1E,1′E)-(1,2-phenylenebis (azanylylidene)), bis(methanylylidene))bis(4-bromophenol), and Zn(II)sulphate. The biogenic ZnNP-T was characterized by different methods. Our purpose was to evaluate the ability of biosynthesis-green method for the preparation of Zn(II) complex as an antifungal agent against diseases from fungal species. (2) Methods: in this work, isolates of Pythium aphanidermatum and Trichderma longibrachiatum were obtained, and Trichderma longibrachiatum was used to prepare nano metal complex. We tested the pathogenicity of nano metal complex against seedling and germination of seeds, and we evaluated the effectiveness of ZnNP-T for growth promotion of Vicia feba in early stage and inhibitory activity against Pythium aphanidermatum. (3) Results: antagonistic activity of ZnNP-T was tested in vitro against Pythium aphanidermatum, and then the growth rates of Vicia faba were determined. The obtained data revealed that mycelial growth of pathogenic fungus was inhibited about 73.8% at 20 ppm. In addition, improved the total biomass of Vicia faba in the presence of P. aphanidermatum. All concentration of ZnNP-T positively affected root weight of Vicia faba seedlings, and positively affected shoot weight. Root and shoot lengths were affected by using 20 ppm of ZnNP-T with up to 180 and 96.5 mm of shoot and root length compared to that of the control, while germination percentage was significantly enhanced with up to 100% increase after 72 h of germination. (4) Conclusion: one of the modern challenges in vegetable or fruit production is to enhance seed germination and to grow healthy plants with strong root system. In future, there should be a focus on using of biogenic Zinc nano-complex as plant growth promoter agents.
Analysis of Genetic Diversity and Population Structure in Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia L.) Using Morphological and SSR Markers
Authors: Alhariri Ahmad , Behera Tusar Kanti , Jat Gograj Singh , Devi Mayanglambam Bilashini , Boopalakrishnan G. , Hemeda Nada F. , Teleb Ayaat A. , Ismail E. , Elkordy Ahmed
Published: September 2021

The present investigation was carried out using 51 diverse bitter gourd accessions as material for studying genetic diversity and relatedness using morphological and SSR markers. A wide variation was observed for morphological traits like the number of days to the first female flower anthesis (37.33–60.67), the number of days to the first fruit harvest (47.67–72.00), the number of fruits/plant (12.00–46.67), fruit length (5.00–22.23 cm), fruit diameter (1.05–6.38 cm), average fruit weight (20.71–77.67 g) and yield per plant (513.3–1976 g). Cluster analysis for 10 quantitative traits grouped the 51 accessions into 6 clusters. Out of 61 SSR primers screened, 30 were polymorphic and highly informative as a means to differentiate these accessions. Based on genotyping, a high level of genetic diversity was observed, with a total of 99 alleles. The polymorphic information content (PIC) values ranged from 0.038 for marker BG_SSR-8 to 0.721 for S-24, with an average of 0.429. The numbers of alleles ranged from 2 to 5, with an average of 3.3 alleles per locus. Gene diversity ranged from 0.04 for BG_SSR-8 to 0.76 for S-24, showing a wide variation among 51 accessions. The UPGMA cluster analysis grouped these accessions into 3 major clusters. Cluster I comprised 4 small, fruited accessions that are commercially cultivated in central and eastern India. Cluster II comprised 35 medium- to long-sized fruited accessions, which made up an abundant and diverse group. Cluster III comprised 11 long and extra-long fruited accessions. The polymorphic SSR markers of the study will be highly useful in genetic fingerprinting and mapping, and for association analysis in Momordica regarding several economic traits.
Update on the Scientific Status of the Plasma Focus
Authors: Auluck Sunil , Kubes Pavel , Paduch Marian , Sadowski Marek J. , Krauz Vyacheslav I. , Lee Sing , Soto Leopoldo , Scholz Marek , Miklaszewski Ryszard , Schmidt Hellmut , Blagoev Alexander , Samuelli Maurizio , Seng Yeow Sing , Springham Stuart Victor , Talebitaher Alireza , Pavez Cristian , Akel Mohammad , Yap Seong Ling , Verma Rishi , Kolacek Karel , Keat Paul Lee Choon , Rawat Rajdeep S. , Abdou Ali , Zhang Guixin , Laas Tõnu
Published: September 2021

This paper is a sequel to the 1998 review paper “Scientific status of the Dense Plasma Focus” with 16 authors belonging to 16 nations, whose initiative led to the establishment of the International Center for Dense Magnetized Plasmas (ICDMP) in the year 2000. Its focus is on understanding the principal defining characteristic features of the plasma focus in the light of the developments that have taken place in the last 20 years, in terms of new facilities, diagnostics, models, and insights. Although it is too soon to proclaim with certainty what the plasma focus phenomenon is, the results available to date conclusively indicate what it is demonstrably not. The review looks at the experimental data, cross-correlated across multiple diagnostics and multiple devices, to delineate the contours of an emerging narrative that is fascinatingly different from the standard narrative, which has guided the consensus in the plasma focus community for several decades, without invalidating it. It raises a question mark over the Fundamental Premise of Controlled Fusion Research, namely, that any fusion reaction having the character of a beam-target process must necessarily be more inefficient than a thermonuclear process with a confined thermal plasma at a suitably high temperature. Open questions that need attention of researchers are highlighted. A future course of action is suggested that individual plasma focus laboratories could adopt in order to positively influence the future growth of research in this field, to the general benefit of not only the controlled fusion research community but also the world at large.
Analysis of the Electrical and Thermal Properties for Magnetic Fe3O4-Coated SiC-Filled Epoxy Composites
Authors: Wu Jiale , Zhang Yiran , Gong Yangzhi , Wang Kun , Chen Yun , Song Xupeng , Lin Jun , Shen Boyang , He Shaojian , Bian Xingming
Published: September 2021

Orderly arranged Silicon carbide (SiC)/epoxy (EP) composites were fabricated. SiC was made magnetically responsive by decorating the surface with iron oxide (Fe3O4) nanoparticles. Three treatment methods, including without magnetization, pre-magnetization and curing magnetization, were used to prepare SiC/EP composites with different filler distributions. Compared with unmodified SiC, magnetic SiC with core-shell structure was conducive to improve the breakdown strength of SiC/EP composites and the maximum enhancement rate was 20.86%. Among the three treatment methods, SiC/EP composites prepared in the curing-magnetization case had better comprehensive properties. Under the action of magnetic field, magnetic SiC were orderly oriented along the direction of an external field, thereby forming SiC chains. The magnetic alignment of SiC restricted the movement of EP macromolecules or polar groups to some extent, resulting in the decrease in the dielectric constant and dielectric loss. The SiC chains are equivalent to heat flow channels, which can improve the heat transfer efficiency, and the maximum improvement rate was 23.6%. The results prove that the orderly arrangement of SiC had a favorable effect on dielectric properties and thermal conductivity of SiC/EP composites. For future applications, the orderly arranged SiC/EP composites have potential for fabricating insulation materials in the power electronic device packaging field.
Mechanical Performance of Granite Fine Fly Dust-Filled Basalt/Glass Polyurethane Polymer Hybrid Composites
Authors: Sapiai Napisah , Jumahat Aidah , Jawaid Mohammad , Abu Md Zin , Chalid Mochamad
Published: September 2021

The granite processing industry generates large amounts of bottom granite dust waste every day. After the drying and heating process of concrete mixture production, the granite dust is blown and collected in the filtering nozzle. This very fine particle granite dry fly dust, with a particle size maximum distribution of 500 μm, can easily be blown away by wind and cause serious environmental impacts. The use of this waste material would be an effective way to reduce such impacts. Therefore, this paper presents an experimental study on the potential of granite dust as a filler in enhancing the mechanical performance of a hybrid basalt/glass (WB/GCSM) composite. The unhole and open hole tensile (UHT and OHT) properties, low velocity impact (LVI) properties, quasi-static indentations (QSI) properties, flexural properties, interlaminar shear stress (ILSS) properties, and morphology of the developed WB/GCSM composites were evaluated. To meet the objective of this study, composite specimens were produced using 1.5–60 μm granite fly dust at three (3) different loadings (1, 3 and 5 wt%). This granite fly dust was incorporated into polyurethane resin using a mechanical stirring technique. The production of FRP laminates then completed using a hand lay-up and vacuum bagging technique. Four types of the WB/GCSM composites systems, i.e., [WB/GCSM], [WB/GCSM/1GD], [WB/GCSM/3GD] and [WB/GCSM/5GD] were fabricated and compared. The analysis results for the mechanical tests revealed that the incorporation of granite dust of up to 3 wt% had increased the UHT, OHT, LVI, QSI, flexural and ILSS properties of all WB/GCSM composites systems. Higher levels of damage tolerance in UHT and OHT tests, and increased ductility index in the LVI test were obtained when granite dust was added up to 5 wt%. However, a remarkable improvement in all mechanical properties was noticed for [WB/GCSM/1GD], which recorded the highest mechanical performance among all WB/GCSM composite systems.
Smart Determination of Gold Content in PCBs of Waste Mobile Phones by Coupling of XRF and AAS Techniques
Authors: Ippolito Nicolò Maria , Belardi Gianmaria , Innocenzi Valentina , Medici Franco , Pietrelli Loris , Piga Luigi
Published: September 2021

Quantitative determination of most economic valuable metals in waste is the first fundamental operation of evaluating the feasibility of recycling processes. Field-portable X-ray fluorescence spectrometers (FPXRFs) represent a more practical, efficient, and economic tool in determining the elemental composition of samples with respect to conventional analytical techniques, such as atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) and inductively coupled plasma emission spectrometry (ICP). In this paper, quick and smart determination of gold content in printed circuit boards (PCBs) of waste mobile phones was studied. The aim of the research was to combine the practicality of FPXRFs with the reliability of quantitative spectrometry analysis and evaluate the error between the two techniques. Several samples (33) of PCBs were ground to a size below 0.5 mm, and then, the powders were analyzed by FPXRFs at different acquisition times with five replications for each sample. The same analyzed samples then underwent chemical attack to determine the quantitative gold content by AAS. The obtained results were associated with FPXRFs response with the purpose of realizing a calibration curve (100–1000 mg/kg Au). The curve was validated for accuracy and precision by other PCBs waste samples; the control samples were added as standards to obtain a more reliable calibration curve. The curve was evaluated with RPD classification, regression linear, and Bolt–Altman analysis.
Transnational and Translational Aspects of Global Christian Congregational Musicking
Authors: Silva Steuernagel Marcell
Published: September 2021

What happens to a worship song as it crosses geographical, cultural, and theological borders? How does this reallocation modify the role a song performs—and is performed—in context? This essay examines how religious songs that flow along transnational networks are transformed in the process of localization. It focuses particularly on how translation, conceived of broadly to encompass verbal and non-verbal aspects, happens within these processes. I argue that, while lyric translation remains a core component of these phenomena, it is but one of the multiple processes of localization that occur when a song travels. Throughout such processes, theology is (re)interpreted and songs are performed differently even as local congregations perceive their engagement with these repertoires as a type of connection to broader worshiping networks. Towards this end, it follows “Mighty to Save”, an Australian worship song, on its transnational path to re-localization within the context of Brazilian gospel. Analyses of the lyrical and musical translations and transformations the song is subjected to can shed further light upon the complex dynamic of transnational flows of religious repertoires in today’s interconnected world.
The Demystification of Magic in the Tafsīr al-Manār: An Analysis of the Exegetical and Homiletic Devices Used in the Discussion ‘Mabḥath al-siḥr wa-Hārūt wa-Mārūt’
Authors: Burge Stephen R.
Published: September 2021

The two angels Hārūt and Mārūt are mentioned together with the prophet Solomon in the ‘magic pericope’ of Sūrat al-Baqara (Q. 2:101–103). Rashīd Riḍā and his mentor Muḥammad ῾Abduh rejected the folkloric, mythical legends that surrounded the two angels Hārūt and Mārūt and the image of Solomon as a magus-like figure, seeing it as a threat to the rational interpretation of the Qur’ān. In his exegesis, Tafsīr al-Manār, Riḍā includes a relatively substantial tract denouncing magic and its use, entitled Mabḥath al-siḥr wa-Hārūt wa-Mārūt. This article will provide an analysis of exegetical and homiletic features used in this section, focusing on four areas: (i) elements of homiletic antisemitism; (ii) the invocation of personal experience; (iii) the use of lexicology to demystify Qur’ānic references to magic; and (iv) the use of a variant reading to demythologize the story. The aim of this article is to explore the ways in which the rejection of magic is articulated and which homiletic and exegetic tools Riḍā uses to support his position. A final section will explore the modernist movement’s relationship with biblical studies and the influence that it may have had on the interpretation of myth in the Tafsīr al-Manār.
When “I” Becomes “We”: Religious Mobilization, Pilgrimage and Political Protests
Authors: Schiffbeck Adrian
Published: September 2021

Scholars have extensively studied social and psychological components of pilgrimage in the past decades. Its political ingredients have less been taken into account. Moreover, there is marginal scientific evidence on connections between pilgrimage and political protests: A response to injustice within a specific agenda and certain goals, remembrance, testimony, imagination, as well as transformation, along with communion and solidarity—are some common features of pilgrims and protesters. There is also the resource mobilization factor—to be analyzed here with a view upon the Romanian 1989 anti-communist revolution in Timișoara. We look at religion as a provider of social ties, in terms of messages with political connotations coming from clergy, and of chain reactions inside religious groups. The qualitative research relies on content analysis of documents, and of 30 semi-structured interviews with former participants to the demonstrations. Results point towards a subtle and circumstantial collective religious mobilization before and during the Romanian revolution. Similarities with pilgrimage are related to the presence of a resourceful actor, converting individual into common needs and generating a collective identity. Differences refer to the spiritual vs. political movement, and to the socio-religious experience vs. the secular search for freedom and justice.
The Effects of Religiosity and Socioeconomic Status on Social Distance towards Refugees and the Serial Mediating Role of Satisfaction with Life and Perceived Threat
Authors: Koçak Orhan
Published: September 2021

In every society, refugees face social and economic exclusion. In particular, social distance towards refugees may be seen remarkably in cities where host people and refugees live together intensely. This study examined essential predictors of social distance towards refugees: religiosity, socioeconomic status (SES), satisfaction with life, and threat perception towards refugees. A quantitative research strategy was used to collect cross-sectional data from 1453 individuals via an online questionnaire in Turkey. Confirmatory factor, correlation, regression, and mediation analyses were conducted. In this study, the effect of religiosity and socioeconomic status on social distance towards refugees and the serial mediation effects of satisfaction with life and threat perception towards refugees on this relationship were analyzed. Questions related to age, gender, marital status, education level, and having refugee neighbors or not were used as control variables. It was found that religiosity and SES were associated with social distance towards refugees. Furthermore, in the effect of religiosity and SES on social distance towards refugees, the serial mediating roles of satisfaction with life and threat perception towards refugees, respectively, were identified.
Remote Sensing for Property Valuation: A Data Source Comparison in Support of Fair Land Taxation in Rwanda
Authors: Koeva Mila , Gasuku Oscar , Lengoiboni Monica , Asiama Kwabena , Bennett Rohan Mark , Potel Jossam , Zevenbergen Jaap
Published: September 2021

Remotely sensed data is increasingly applied across many domains, including fit-for-purpose land administration (FFPLA), where the focus is on fast, affordable, and accurate property information collection. Property valuation, as one of the main functions of land administration systems, is influenced by locational, physical, legal, and economic factors. Despite the importance of property valuation to economic development, there are often no standardized rules or strict data requirements for property valuation for taxation in developing contexts, such as Rwanda. This study aims at assessing different remote sensing data in support of developing a new approach for property valuation for taxation in Rwanda; one that aligns with the FFPLA philosophy. Three different remote sensing technologies, (i) aerial images acquired with a digital camera, (ii) WorldView2 satellite images, and (iii) unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) images obtained with a DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus quadcopter, are compared and analyzed in terms of their fitness to fulfil the requirements for valuation for taxation purposes. Quantitative and qualitative methods are applied for the comparative analysis. Prior to the field visit, the fundamental concepts of property valuation for taxation and remote sensing were reviewed. In the field, reference data using high precision GNSS (Leica) was collected and used for quantitative assessment. Primary data was further collected via semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. The results show that UAVs have the highest potential for collecting data to support property valuation for taxation. The main reasons are the prime need for accurate-enough and up-to-date information. The comparison of the different remote sensing techniques and the provided new approach can support land valuers and professionals in the field in bottom-up activities following the FFPLA principles and maintaining the temporal quality of data needed for fair taxation.
Landslide Susceptibility Assessment Based on Different MaChine Learning Methods in Zhaoping County of Eastern Guangxi
Authors: Kong Chunfang , Tian Yiping , Ma Xiaogang , Weng Zhengping , Zhang Zhiting , Xu Kai
Published: September 2021

Regarding the ever increasing and frequent occurrence of serious landslide disaster in eastern Guangxi, the current study was implemented to adopt support vector machines (SVM), particle swarm optimization support vector machines (PSO-SVM), random forest (RF), and particle swarm optimization random forest (PSO-RF) methods to assess landslide susceptibility in Zhaoping County. To this end, 10 landslide disaster-related variables including digital elevation model (DEM)-derived, meteorology-derived, Landsat8-derived, geology-derived, and human activities factors were provided. Of 345 landslide disaster locations found, 70% were used to train the models, and the rest of them were performed for model verification. The aforementioned four models were run, and landslide susceptibility evaluation maps were produced. Then, receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves, statistical analysis, and field investigation were performed to test and verify the efficiency of these models. Analysis and comparison of the results denoted that all four landslide models performed well for the landslide susceptibility evaluation as indicated by the area under curve (AUC) values of ROC curves from 0.863 to 0.934. Among them, it has been shown that the PSO-RF model has the highest accuracy in comparison to other landslide models, followed by the PSO-SVM model, the RF model, and the SVM model. Moreover, the results also showed that the PSO algorithm has a good effect on SVM and RF models. Furthermore, the landslide models devolved in the present study are promising methods that could be transferred to other regions for landslide susceptibility evaluation. In addition, the evaluation results can provide suggestions for disaster reduction and prevention in Zhaoping County of eastern Guangxi.
Curve Registration of Functional Data for Approximate Bayesian Computation
Authors: Ebert Anthony , Mengersen Kerrie , Ruggeri Fabrizio , Wu Paul
Published: September 2021

Approximate Bayesian computation is a likelihood-free inference method which relies on comparing model realisations to observed data with informative distance measures. We obtain functional data that are not only subject to noise along their y axis but also to a random warping along their x axis, which we refer to as the time axis. Conventional distances on functions, such as the L2 distance, are not informative under these conditions. The Fisher–Rao metric, previously generalised from the space of probability distributions to the space of functions, is an ideal objective function for aligning one function to another by warping the time axis. We assess the usefulness of alignment with the Fisher–Rao metric for approximate Bayesian computation with four examples: two simulation examples, an example about passenger flow at an international airport, and an example of hydrological flow modelling. We find that the Fisher–Rao metric works well as the objective function to minimise for alignment; however, once the functions are aligned, it is not necessarily the most informative distance for inference. This means that likelihood-free inference may require two distances: one for alignment and one for parameter inference.
A Roof of Greenery, but a Sky of Unexplored Relations—Meta-Analysis of Factors and Properties That Affect Green Roof Hydrological and Thermal Performances
Authors: Hanumesh Mithun , Claverie Rémy , Séré Geoffroy
Published: September 2021

Green roofs are expected to contribute to the mitigation of multiple environmental issues that affect urban areas. Owing to their composition, organization, and external factors, the performances of green roofs have been demonstrated to be overall positive but strongly variable. Our work first aims at proposing consensual definitions and a frame adapted to these biotic-abiotic systems. It also aims at shedding light on the qualitative relations between various internal properties and external factors of green roofs on their hydrological and thermal performances. One hundred relevant study papers were filtered from 395 papers as per our defined search criteria based on originality and precision. The expectations were to be capable of hierarchizing factors and properties that would influence the performances of green roofs. The main findings highlighted that most factors and properties have a positive influence on the performances of green roofs, showing there are many existing levers to enhance the green roof performances and tackle some of the main urban environmental issues. However, even if previous research has already explored various relations, in the final filtered consideration of 6 performances and 30 factors and properties, there was a possibility of 180 combined factor–property–performance relations studies overall. Out of these possibilities, only 82 have been studied at least once, leaving the other 98 relations (54%) unexplored. Considering that these lists were far from exhaustive, a huge potential in determining green roof performances remains unearthed. In this regard, various proposals have been made regarding: (i) identification of levers to enhance the performances of green roofs; (ii) filling the gaps: the exploration of the unstudied relations; (iii) promotion of deeper and innovative experimental approaches for research on green roof performances; and (iv) the shift from mono to transdisciplinary research about green roofs.
Measures to Increase Local Food Supply in the Context of European Framework Scenarios for the Agri-Food Sector
Authors: Voglhuber-Slavinsky Ariane , Derler Hartmut , Moller Björn , Dönitz Ewa , Bahrs Enno , Berner Simon
Published: September 2021

The issue of local food supply has attracted considerable political and public attention, due to the changing preferences of consumers, who have more awareness about ecological sustainability, in particular, but also due to recent developments concerning the COVID-19 pandemic. In order to identify measures facilitating local food value chains, which are resilient to different nationwide and global future developments, the aim of our analysis was to set the identified measures derived from the local roadmap of the city of Graz in the context of European scenarios for the agri-food sector in 2035. The results show that certain measures are applicable under all of the described scenarios, such as the food policy council, whereas some measures—for example, open food labs—are less suitable or need to be adjusted to fit the purpose within changing framework conditions. Setting specific measures for a city region in the broader context of European agri-food scenarios provides a systemic perspective, thus making the multiple links and influences more visible.
Model Test Study on Bearing Capacity and Deformation Characteristics of Symmetric Pile–Bucket Foundation Subjected to Cyclic Horizontal Load
Authors: Fu Zunan , Wang Guoshuai , Yu Yanming , Shi Li
Published: September 2021

The pile–bucket foundation that features a bucket slipped onto a monopile is a new type of symmetric offshore foundation supporting the wind turbine. Its load bearing and deformation resistance capacity are unclear, especially when subjected to cyclic horizontal loadings. In this paper, a model test has been designed and carried out for investigating the cyclic behavior of the pile–bucket foundation embedded in soft marine clay. Cyclic horizontal loads are applied in a displacement-controlled manner with different amplitudes and frequencies. The influences of cyclic loading parameters, including the amplitude, the frequency and the cycle number, have been studied from the perspectives of stiffness-degradation and damping effect that are evaluated from the recorded horizontal force–displacement relationships at the loading point. In addition, the influences of cyclic horizontal loading on the bending moment distribution and on the p–y curve have been presented and discussed. The results show that significant reductions in the foundation stiffness and in the soil resistance may be observed during the first few cycles when the loading displacement is relatively high.
Common Neighborhood Energy of Commuting Graphs of Finite Groups
Authors: Nath Rajat Kanti , Fasfous Walaa Nabil Taha , Das Kinkar Chandra , Shang Yilun
Published: September 2021

The commuting graph of a finite non-abelian group G with center Z(G), denoted by Γc(G), is a simple undirected graph whose vertex set is G∖Z(G), and two distinct vertices x and y are adjacent if and only if xy=yx. Alwardi et al. (Bulletin, 2011, 36, 49-59) defined the common neighborhood matrix CN(G) and the common neighborhood energy Ecn(G) of a simple graph G. A graph G is called CN-hyperenergetic if Ecn(G)>Ecn(Kn), where n=|V(G)| and Kn denotes the complete graph on n vertices. Two graphs G and H with equal number of vertices are called CN-equienergetic if Ecn(G)=Ecn(H). In this paper we compute the common neighborhood energy of Γc(G) for several classes of finite non-abelian groups, including the class of groups such that the central quotient is isomorphic to group of symmetries of a regular polygon, and conclude that these graphs are not CN-hyperenergetic. We shall also obtain some pairs of finite non-abelian groups such that their commuting graphs are CN-equienergetic.
Clinical Characterization and Genomic Analysis of Samples from COVID-19 Breakthrough Infections during the Second Wave among the Various States of India
Authors: Gupta Nivedita , Kaur Harmanmeet , Yadav Pragya Dhruv , Mukhopadhyay Labanya , Sahay Rima R. , Kumar Abhinendra , Nyayanit Dimpal A. , Shete Anita M. , Patil Savita , Majumdar Triparna , Rana Salaj , Gupta Swati , Narayan Jitendra , Vijay Neetu , Barde Pradip , Nataraj Gita , B. Amrutha Kumari , Kumari Manasa P. , Biswas Debasis , Iravane Jyoti , Raut Sharmila , Dutta Shanta , Devi Sulochana , Barua Purnima , Gupta Piyali , Borkakoty Biswa , Kalita Deepjyoti , Dhingra Kanwardeep , Fomda Bashir , Joshi Yash , Goyal Kapil , John Reena , Munivenkatappa  Ashok , Dhodapkar Rahul , Pandit Priyanka , Devi Sarada , Dudhmal Manisha , Kinariwala Deepa , Khandelwal Neeta , Tiwari Yogendra Kumar , Khatri Prabhat Kiran , Gupta Anjli , Khatri Himanshu , Malhotra Bharti , Nagasundaram Mythily , Dar Lalit , Sheikh Nazira , Shastri Jayanthi , Aggarwal Neeraj , Abraham Priya
Published: September 2021

From March to June 2021, India experienced a deadly second wave of COVID-19, with an increased number of post-vaccination breakthrough infections reported across the country. To understand the possible reason for these breakthroughs, we collected 677 clinical samples (throat swab/nasal swabs) of individuals from 17 states/Union Territories of the country who had received two doses (n = 592) and one dose (n = 85) of vaccines and tested positive for COVID-19. These cases were telephonically interviewed and clinical data were analyzed. A total of 511 SARS-CoV-2 genomes were recovered with genome coverage of higher than 98% from both groups. Analysis of both groups determined that 86.69% (n = 443) of them belonged to the Delta variant, along with Alpha, Kappa, Delta AY.1, and Delta AY.2. The Delta variant clustered into four distinct sub-lineages. Sub-lineage I had mutations in ORF1ab A1306S, P2046L, P2287S, V2930L, T3255I, T3446A, G5063S, P5401L, and A6319V, and in N G215C; Sub-lineage II had mutations in ORF1ab P309L, A3209V, V3718A, G5063S, P5401L, and ORF7a L116F; Sub-lineage III had mutations in ORF1ab A3209V, V3718A, T3750I, G5063S, and P5401L and in spike A222V; Sub-lineage IV had mutations in ORF1ab P309L, D2980N, and F3138S and spike K77T. This study indicates that majority of the breakthrough COVID-19 clinical cases were infected with the Delta variant, and only 9.8% cases required hospitalization, while fatality was observed in only 0.4% cases. This clearly suggests that the vaccination does provide reduction in hospital admission and mortality.
Safety and Efficacy of Spray Intranasal Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Perego Giulia , Vigezzi Giacomo Pietro , Cocciolo Giulia , Chiappa Federica , Salvati Stefano , Balzarini Federica , Odone Anna , Signorelli Carlo , Gianfredi Vincenza
Published: September 2021

Although influenza is a major public health concern, little is known about the use of spray live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV) among adults. For this reason, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the efficacy and safety of LAIV, especially in adults with/without clinical conditions and children <2 years, with the final aim of possibly extending the clinical indications. PubMed/MEDLINE and Scopus were the two databases consulted through February 2021. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were followed. A critical appraisal was conducted. Analyses were performed by using ProMeta3 software. Twenty-two studies were included, showing that LAIV was associated with a higher probability of seroconversion when compared with a placebo and considering the A/H1N1 serotype (pooled OR = 2.26 (95% CI = 1.12–4.54), p-value = 0.022; based on 488 participants, without heterogeneity (I2 = 0.0%)). The meta-analysis also confirmed no significant association with systemic adverse events. Only rhinorrhea, nasal congestion, and sore throat were significantly associated with LAIV compared to the placebo. Despite limited available evidence, LAIV has proved to be a safe and effective flu vaccination, also due to its very low invasiveness, and our review’s results can be considered a starting point for guiding future research and shaping forthcoming vaccination campaigns.
Evaluating the Performance of Machine Learning Approaches to Predict the Microbial Quality of Surface Waters and to Optimize the Sampling Effort
Authors: Naloufi Manel , Lucas Françoise S. , Souihi Sami , Servais Pierre , Janne Aurélie , Wanderley Matos De Abreu Thiago
Published: September 2021

Exposure to contaminated water during aquatic recreational activities can lead to gastrointestinal diseases. In order to decrease the exposure risk, the fecal indicator bacteria Escherichia coli is routinely monitored, which is time-consuming, labor-intensive, and costly. To assist the stakeholders in the daily management of bathing sites, models have been developed to predict the microbiological quality. However, model performances are highly dependent on the quality of the input data which are usually scarce. In our study, we proposed a conceptual framework for optimizing the selection of the most adapted model, and to enrich the training dataset. This frameword was successfully applied to the prediction of Escherichia coli concentrations in the Marne River (Paris Area, France). We compared the performance of six machine learning (ML)-based models: K-nearest neighbors, Decision Tree, Support Vector Machines, Bagging, Random Forest, and Adaptive boosting. Based on several statistical metrics, the Random Forest model presented the best accuracy compared to the other models. However, 53.2 ± 3.5% of the predicted E. coli densities were inaccurately estimated according to the mean absolute percentage error (MAPE). Four parameters (temperature, conductivity, 24 h cumulative rainfall of the previous day the sampling, and the river flow) were identified as key variables to be monitored for optimization of the ML model. The set of values to be optimized will feed an alert system for monitoring the microbiological quality of the water through combined strategy of in situ manual sampling and the deployment of a network of sensors. Based on these results, we propose a guideline for ML model selection and sampling optimization.
Hydraulic Turbine Performance Assessment with Implementation of an Innovative Aeration System
Authors: Bunea Florentina , Ciocan Gabriel Dan , Bucur Diana Maria , Dunca Georgiana , Nedelcu Adrian
Published: September 2021

The environmentally friendly concept in terms of water quality represents a condition for developing hydropower plants all around the world. Since 2017, hydropower has represented more than 70% of all renewable energy production and it is essential for the integration of the other renewable sources of energy and for regulation of the grid. To maintain the “green” label concerning the dissolved oxygen level (6 mg DO/L), the energy suppliers should respond to environmental concerns about the operation of hydropower plants. In the context of sustainable development, the ecological degradation of rivers is unacceptable due to the implementation of a hydropower plant on the watercourse. For deep reservoirs or tropical regions, the oxygen level in the water downstream of the hydropower plants may be low and affect the aquatic life for many kilometers downstream. This paper presents a new aeration system for discharged water from hydropower plants that provides water aeration with minimum energy consumption. The influence of the aeration process on the turbine operation and efficiency is analyzed. Experimental measurements are carried out on site on a small Francis turbine. The influence of the aeration process on the turbine mechanical performances (vibration level and relative displacement) and hydraulic performances (turbine efficiency, power output, and pressure fluctuation) is analyzed. The results showed that the impact of the aeration device implementation and operation over the energetic characteristics of the turbine is in the efficiency measurements accuracy range. The aeration through this device did not influence the turbine operation (vibration, level, or pressure fluctuations).
Realidade virtual na reabilitação motora da Doença de Parkinson: revisão integrativa
Authors: Nunes da Conceição Haylane , Da Silva  Medeiros Joelson , Farias de Carvalho Daniela
Published: September 2021

Introdução. A realidade virtual é uma ferramenta tecnológica utilizada no protocolo fisioterapêutico de reabilitação, sendo uma opção de tratamento para os indivíduos acometidos pela Doença de Parkinson (DP). Objetivo. Abordar as contribuições da realidade virtual na reabilitação das alterações motoras da Doença de Parkinson. Método. Trata-se de uma revisão integrativa de literatura, realizada nas bases de dados Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde (LILACS), Literatura Internacional em Ciências da Saúde (MEDLINE), via Pubmed, Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) e Scientifc Eletronic Library Online (SciELO), utilizando os descritores Parkinson Disease e Virtual Reality, combinados com operador booleano AND. Foram incluídos artigos completos, publicados entre 2012 a 2020 e disponíveis no idioma inglês, sendo excluídos os artigos de revisões, teses, artigos duplicados e os estudos que não abordavam a utilização da realidade virtual na reabilitação da DP. Após a aplicação dos critérios de elegibilidade, foram selecionados 12 artigos. Resultados.  A partir dos estudos incluídos, pôde-se observar que a realidade virtual, através de jogos comerciais e personalizados, contribui positivamente para um melhor desempenho motor dos pacientes com DP, sendo utilizada no tratamento dos padrões anormais da marcha, nas alterações na mobilidade funcional, nos déficits de equilíbrio, nos distúrbios da função motora e para o aumento da força muscular desses indivíduos. Conclusão. A realidade virtual é uma ferramenta potencialmente eficaz no processo de reabilitação das alterações motoras dos pacientes com DP, apresentando, em alguns casos, resultados superiores ou igualmente satisfatórios aos das intervenções fisioterapêuticas tradicionais.
A Poisson-Regression, Support Vector Machine and Grey Prediction Based Combined Forecasting Model Proposal: A Case Study in Distribution Business
Authors: YİĞİT Fatih , ESNAF Şakir , YALÇIN KAVUŞ Bahar
Published: September 2021

Demand forecasting is a complicated task due to incomplete data and unpredictability. Accurate demand forecasting has a direct impact on the performance of a company. The goal of the study is to present a new two-stage combination model named Hybrid-2-Best, for accurate demand forecasting. The model combines three forecasting models in a single combined forecast. The Hybrid-2-Best model uses a two-stage algorithm to achieve better-performing forecasts. Case study showed that the proposed Hybrid-2-Best model performs the best forecast performance among other combination techniques and individual methods. Furthermore, GP integration in the first and second stages gives flexibility. Experimental results indicate that the proposed Hybrid-2-Best model is a promising alternative for sales demand forecasting. MAPE of the proposed model is 0,13. This is a good result and better than compared other models. Proposed model performed better than other compared models in MASE and MSE as well
The study of the features of the psychological component of gestational dominance as an indicator of the formation of dysfunctional relationships in the ‟mother-child” system in women of different age categories
Authors: Zolotova Irina A.
Published: September 2021

The article provides an analysis of the work on the problem of the specifics of the formation of the psychological component of gestational dominance (PCGD) in women with the peculiarities of the psycho-emotional state and residence of the pregnancy period. It is assumed that the features of the PCGD may be an indicator of the formation of dysfunctional relationships in the "mother-child" system and reflect the characteristics of maternal ontogenesis. Sample included pregnant women with different age categories. The method was Pregnancy attitude test of Igor’ Dobryakov. The author's approach of quantitative analysis was used in the processing of the results. It is concluded that there are significant differences in each of the types of relationships that form during pregnancy in women of different age groups, namely, in relation to pregnancy, mother, childbirth, to breastfeeding, to close significant in the face of their own mother, established by correlational analysis.