bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Possibility of a High-efficiency Wave Power Generation System using Dielectric Elastomers
Authors: Chiba Seiki , Waki Mikio , Jiang Changqing , Takeshita Makoto , Uejima Mitsugu , Arakawa Kohei , Ohyama Kazuhiro
Published: April 2021

Abstract: Power generation using dielectric elastomer (DE) artificial muscle is attracting attention because of its light weight, low cost, and high efficiency. Since this method is a system that produces electricity without emitting carbon dioxide nor using rare earths, it would contribute to the goal of environmental sustainability. In this paper, the background of DEs, the associated high-efficient wave energy generation (WEG) systems that we developed using DEs, as well as the latest development of its material are summarized. By covering the challenges we face and the achievements that we’ve reached, we can discuss the opportunities to build the foundation of a recycled energy society through the usage of these WEGs. On the other hand, to make these possibilities commercially successful, the advantages of DEs need to be integrated with traditional technologies. To achieve this, we also consider the method of using DEs alone and a system used in combination with an oscillating water column. Finally, the current status and future of DEGs are discussed.
Proses Perbaikan Plate Heat Exchanger Tipe M15 di PT. Janata Marina Indah (JMI) Semarang
Authors: Yusim Adi Kurniawan , Utomo Budi , Suharto Suharto , Hartono Hartono
Published: April 2021

Heat exchanger di kapal kebanyakan berbentuk shell and tube. Bentuk yang lain adalah plate heat exchanger (PHE). Kelebihan PHE adalah mempunyai permukaan perpindahan yang sangat besar pada volume alat yang kecil. Pemilihan material gasket yang sesuai pada PHE merupakan hal yang sangat penting. Hal ini bertujuan untuk umur pemakaian PHE yang lama. Penelitian telah dilakukan di galangan kapal PT. JMI Semarang untuk mengetahui letak dan penyebab kebocoran pelat dari PHE. Pengamatan dan perbaikan PHE dilakukan saat kapal naik dock di galangan tersebut. Perbaikan dilakukan secara langsung berupa data operasional dan manual book PHE tipe M15.
Pengaruh Arus Laut terhadap Sedimentasi di Pantai Barane Kabupaten Majene
Authors: Yusman Yusman
Published: April 2021

Sedimentasi adalah pengendapan material batuan yang telah diangkut oleh air atau angin. Majene adalah salah satu daerah di Indonesia yang sebagian besar merupakan wilayah pesisir sehingga perlu dilakukan penelitian tentang laju sedimentasi. Penentuan laju sedimen menggunakan perangkat rakitan yang terbuat dari besi 4 m dan pipa 2 inch sepanjang 25 cm yang diikat ke besi. Lokasi pengukuran terdiri dari 3 lokasi. Lokasi pertama terletak di ujung barat pantai barane, lokasi kedua terletak di tengah dan lokasi ketiga terletak di ujung timur pantai barane yang dekat dengan muara sungai. Pengukuran ketinggian sedimen dalam pipa dilakukan setiap minggu untuk setiap lokasi selama 3 kali pengukuran. Dari hasil penelitian, laju sedimentasi di lokasi 1 berkisar antara 14,788.36-23.238,85 cm3/tahun dengan sedimentasi rata-rata 18.661.5 cm3/tahun. Laju sedimentasi untuk lokasi 2 berkisar antara 12.675.73-21.654.38 cm3/tahun dengan sedimentasi rata-rata 16.724.92 cm3/tahun. Laju sedimentasi untuk lokasi 3 berkisar antara 13732.04-16900.98 cm3/tahun dengan sedimentasi rata-rata 15.562.98 cm3/tahun. Arus laut membawa sedimen ke arah ujung barat pantai barane sehingga laju sedimentasi terbesar terdapat di lokasi pertama.Kata Kunci: Sedimentasi, Arus Laut, Pantai Barane.
Application of Nanocomposit Of Al2O3/Activated Carbon Prepared by Hydrothermal Process for Phenol Removal
Authors: Allwar Allwar , Sari Meidita Kemala
Published: April 2021

Nancomposite of Al2O3/activated carbon was prepared from the mixture of alumina oxide (Al2O3) and activated carbon from palm oil shell under the mixture of aquabidest and ethanol (1:1). The mixture was treated by hydrothermal process at 250 oC for 3 h. Resulted Al2O3/ activated carbon was characterized using SEM/EDX for studying the morphology structure of activated carbon and composite showing a like flower structure attached on the surface. The chemical compositions were 73.18%, oxygen 23.72%, aluminium 2.30%, dan silica 2.00%. The efficiency  of composite was investigated for removal of phenol in aqueous solution. The maximum adsorption of phenol was obtained at pH 2, adsorbent weight 2 g, contact time 60 min and phenol concentration 100 ppm.
ANALISIS KESUKSESAN KARIR ALUMNI PROGRAM MAHASISWA BERPRESTASI DI PERGURUAN TINGGI
Authors: Syafhil Zakiyah Salsabila , Kartika Lindawati
Published: April 2021

Kementerian Pendidikan dan Kebudayaan menyelenggarakan Pemilihan Mahasiswa Berprestasi (PILMAPRES) tingkat nasional sejak 2004. Kompetisi ini mencakup aspek penilaian komprehensif yang meliputi kemampuan akademik, kemampuan berbahasa asing, capaian unggulan, kemampuan menulis ilmiah, dan kepribadian. IPB University merupakan perguruan tinggi yang memiliki reputasi baik dalam ajang tersebut. Penelitian ini dilakukan pada Direktorat Kemahasiswaan dan Pengembangan Karir IPB dengan tujuan untuk mengidentifikasi karakteristik, menganalisis kompetensi alumni berdasarkan kriteria PILMAPRES dan karir pascakampus, serta menganalisis pengaruh kompetensi terhadap kesuksesan karir alumni program PILMAPRES. Pendekatan yang digunakan adalah kuantitatif berupa survei dan studi dokumen dari berbagai hasil kajian yang relevan. Partisipan penelitian merupakan 45 orang alumni Mahasiswa Berprestasi yang mewakili semua fakultas dan sekolah di IPB. Pengumpulan data dilakukan dengan kuesioner yang diberikan melalui internet kepada responden. Data diolah dengan metode analisis deskriptif dan SEM PLS. Mayoritas alumni bekerja sebagai karyawan swasta dengan masa tunggu rata-rata empat bulan. Dari analisis SEM-PLS diketahui bahwa variabel capaian unggulan dan kepribadian berpengaruh signifikan terhadap kesuksesan karier, sedangkan kemampuan akademik, kemampuan bahasa asing dan kemampuan penulisan ilmiah tidak berpengaruh signifikan.

 

The Ministry of Education and Culture has held National Outstanding Students Selection (PILMAPRES) since 2004. This competition covers comprehensive aspects such as academic abilities, foreign language skills, non-academic achievements, scientific writing abilities, and personality. IPB University has a good reputation in this event. This research was conducted at the Directorate of Student Affairs and Career Development of IPB with the objectives to identify the characteristics of outstanding student alumni, analyse alumni competencies based on PILMAPRES criteria and career, and analyse the influence of competence on career success. The approach used is quantitative with primary data from survey and secondary data from various relevant studies. Research participants were 45 outstanding student alumni representing all faculties and schools in IPB. Data collection was carried out by means of a questionnaire given via the internet to respondents. The data were processed using descriptive analysis and SEM-PLS. The majority of alumni work as private employees with a maximum average waiting period of four months. From the SEM-PLS analysis, it is known that the variables of achievements and personality have a significant effect on career success, while academic abilities, foreign language skills, and scientific writing abilities do not have any significant effect.
Detecting clandestine tunnels by using near-surface seismic techniques
Authors: Sloan Steven , Peterie Shelby , Miller Richard , Ivanov Julian , Schwenk J. , McKenna Jason
Published: April 2021

Geophysical detection of clandestine tunnels is a complex problem that has been met with limited success. Multiple methods have been applied spanning several decades, but a reliable solution has yet to be found. This report presents shallow seismic data collected at a tunnel test site representative of geologic settings found along the southwestern U.S. border. Results demonstrate the capability of using compressional wave diffraction and surface-wave backscatter techniques to detect a purpose-built subterranean tunnel. Near-surface seismic data were also collected at multiple sites in Afghanistan to detect and locate subsurface anomalies (e.g., data collected over an escape tunnel discovered in 2011 at the Sarposa Prison in Kandahar, Afghanistan, which allowed more than 480 prisoners to escape, and data from another shallow tunnel recently discovered at an undisclosed location). The final example from Afghanistan is the first time surface-based seismic methods have detected a tunnel whose presence and location were not previously known. Seismic results directly led to the discovery of the tunnel. Interpreted tunnel locations for all examples were less than 2 m of the actual location. Seismic surface wave backscatter and body-wave diffraction methods show promise for efficient data acquisition and processing for locating purposefully hidden tunnels within unconsolidated sediments.
Liderazgo transformacional y su impacto en la transferencia de conocimiento y el desempeño operativo en el contexto de la industria automotriz
Authors: Vargas-Salgado María Marisela , Gómez-Bull Karla Gabriela
Published: April 2021

Actualmente las organizaciones se enfrentan a cambios retadores, con el fin de ser más competitivas. Los antecedentes teóricos revelan que el liderazgo es una variable necesaria en el contexto laboral, dado que a través de este se motiva y se guía a los seguidores a compartir conocimiento para realizar actividades que impacten considerablemente el desempeño y el éxito organizacional. Por tanto, el objetivo de este trabajo fue analizar el impacto que tiene el liderazgo transformacional sobre el desempeño operativo por medio de la mediación de la transferencia de conocimiento. Se utilizó un diseño cuantitativo de tipo no experimental, transversal, descriptivo y correlacional causal. La muestra fue no probabilística por conveniencia, considerándose como sujetos de estudio a los mandos medios que trabajan en la industria automotriz de la frontera norte de México; en total se encuestó a 300 participantes. Los datos descriptivos se analizaron mediante la herramienta estadística SPSS, mientras que la estadística inferencial se analizó a través de la herramienta modelado de ecuaciones estructurales, mediante la estimación de mínimos cuadrados parciales (PLS). Los resultados revelan que el liderazgo transformacional tiene un efecto positivo y significativo a un nivel de confianza del 99,9 % sobre la transferencia de conocimiento y el desempeño operativo.
Students’ Admission Process based on a Novel Fermatean Fuzzy Distance Measure Algorithm
Authors: Ejegwa Augustine , Onyeke Idoko Charles
Published: April 2021

Fermatean fuzzy set is a competent tool in curbing indeterminacy embedded in soft computing. Fermatean fuzzy set generalizes both intuitionistic fuzzy sets and Pythagorean fuzzy sets in an effective way to handle imprecision by expanding the spatial scope of Pythagorean/intuitionistic fuzzy sets. Distance measure has become an integral aspect of utilizing generalized fuzzy sets in soft computing. In this paper, a novel distance measure between Fermatean fuzzy sets is introduced with a better and reliable output. Some properties of the proposed distance measure are characterized. It is demonstrated that the new distance measure between Fermatean fuzzy sets is more reliable than the existing Fermatean fuzzy distance measure. In addition, it is shown that Fermatean fuzzy set is more equipped to curb imprecision than Pythagorean/intuitionistic fuzzy sets. In terms of application, the new Fermatean fuzzy distance measure is utilized in executing students’ admission process using an algorithmic approach implemented by a programming language to enhance accuracy and ease of computations.
Complex Day-to-day Movements of an Alpine Passerine May Act as an Insurance Against Environmental Variability
Authors: Barras Arnaud Gian , Liechti Felix , Arlettaz Raphaël
Published: April 2021

Mountains naturally offer very contrasting habitat conditions, but their biodiversity is nowadays facing the extra challenge of adapting to rapid environmental shifts that are much more pronounced than in the lowlands. Among the possible adaptive responses of wildlife, intra- and inter-seasonal movements represent an important coping strategy that remains largely unexplored. We investigated the seasonal and day-to-day movements of the ring ouzel Turdus torquatus, a European mountain bird species that is declining in many parts of its distribution. We tracked individuals breeding in the Swiss Alps using geolocators, multi-sensor loggers and GPS. Of the birds traced to their non-breeding quarters, two thirds reached the Atlas Mountains while one third stayed in Spain, a region potentially more significant for overwintering than previously thought. The birds remained mostly above 1000 m throughout the annual cycle, highlighting a strict association of ring ouzels with mountain habitats. We also evidenced flexible daily elevational movements, especially upon spring arrival on the breeding grounds, which suggest adaptive potential in response to environmental variation. This study shows how modern technology can deliver deeper insights into animal movements, paving the way for refined assessments of species vulnerability to ongoing global change while providing basic conservation guidance.
Predicting Outcomes of Business Process Executions Based on LSTM Neural Networks and Attention Mechanism
Authors: Wang Jiaojiao , Yu Dongjin , Liu Chengfei , Sun Xiaoxiao
Published: April 2021

To effectively predict the outcome of an on-going process instance helps make an early decision, which plays an important role in so-called predictive process monitoring. Existing methods in this field are tailor-made for some empirical operations such as the prefix extraction, clustering, and encoding, leading that their relative accuracy is highly sensitive to the dataset. Moreover, they have limitations in real-time prediction applications due to the lengthy prediction time. Since Long Short-term Memory (LSTM) neural network provides a high precision in the prediction of sequential data in several areas, this paper investigates LSTM and its enhancements and proposes three different approaches to build more effective and efficient models for outcome prediction. The first move on enhancement is that we combine the original LSTM network from two directions, forward and backward, to capture more features from the completed cases. The second move on enhancement is that we add attention mechanism after extracting features in the hidden layer of LSTM network to distinct them from their attention weight. A series of extensive experiments are evaluated on twelve real datasets when comparing with other approaches. The results show that our approaches outperform the state-of-the-art ones in terms of prediction effectiveness and time performance.
Design of Sliding Mode Controller For The Estimation Of Sensor/Actuator Fault With Unknown Input Observer For Satellite Control System.
Authors: Aslam Muhammad Shamrooz , Qaisar Irfan
Published: April 2021

In this paper, the mechanism for estimation of the sensor and actuator faulty control problem for the class of nonlinear systems is investigated. The Lipschitz conditions and system uncertainties also considered. By implementing the sliding mode observer (SMO) method, initially, we introduced the transformation scheme to make the system rational. In which we split our system into two parts such that the actuator fault function has only happened in the second state vector of nonlinear dynamics. Based on the Lyapunov stability theory and appropriate inequality, some sufficient criteria in the form of linear matrix inequalities are obtained to ensure the bounded stability for the prescribed H∞ performance level. In addition, the designed algorithm for actuator fault is further applied for the sensor fault.
The interaction effects of FEN1 rs174538 polymorphism and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons exposure on damage in exon 19 and 21 of EGFR gene in coke oven workers
Authors: Chen Siqin , He Yuefeng , Yan Maosheng , Zhou Yun , He Qinghua , Tan Jingwen , Yang Binyao
Published: April 2021

Mutagenesis is a multifactor process associated with increased risk of cancer. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) exposure and genetic susceptibility were conductive to genotoxic effects including gene damage, which can increase mutational probability and are potential carcinogenic etiology. We aimed to explore the dose-effect associations of PAHs exposure with damage of exons of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and breast cancer susceptibility gene 1 (BRCA1), as well as their associations whether modified by Flap endonuclease 1 (FEN1) genotype. 288 coke oven male workers were recruited and we detected the concentration of 1-hydroxypyrene (1-OH-pyr) as PAHs exposure biomarker in urine and examined base modification in exons of EGFR and BRCA1 respectively, and genotyped FEN1 rs174538 polymorphism in plasma by PCR methods. Compared to low exposure group, the high exposed workers had significantly higher urinary concentrations of 1-OH-pyr, after adjustment for multiple covariates (P < 0.001). We found that the damage index of exon 19 and 21 of EGFR (EGFR-19 and EGFR-21) were both significantly associated with increased urinary 1-OH-pyr (both Ptrend < 0.001). The multiple linear regression analysis showed that the levels of urinary 1-OH-pyr were both significantly associated with increased EGFR-19 and EGFR-21 in both smokers and nonsmokers (both P < 0.001). Additionally, we observed that the urinary 1-OH-pyr concentrations were both linearly associated with EGFR-19 and EGFR-21 only in rs174538 GA + AA genotype carriers (both P < 0.001). Moreover, FEN1rs rs174538 showed modifying effects on the associations of urinary 1-OH-pyr with EGFR-19 and EGFR-21 (both Pinteraction< 0.05). Our findings revealed the linear dose-effect association between exon damage of EGFR and PAHs exposure and highlight differences in genetic contributions to exon damage and have the potential to identify at-risk subpopulations who are susceptible to adverse health effects induced by PAH exposure.
Performance Analysis of Solar Chimney Power Plant from Geothermal Waste Heat Source a Case of Aluto-Langano, Ethiopia.
Authors: Getnet Tereche , Getnet Aschale
Published: April 2021

In this paper, the transient thermal simulation on working fluid of solar updraft power plant using waste water was investigated to characterize the enhancement by numerical and theoretical method. Numerical solution technique used to solve a differential equation form of governing equations using finite difference discretization scheme. Most of the researches done on geometrical parameters to perform the mathematical modeling. This paper combines some of the above improvements on the performance of plant and combines them with new idea of heat source as waste heat in Aluto Langano geothermal power plant. Moreover, this study using dimensions of plant constructed in Manzanares, Spain height of chimney = 194.6 m, diameter of collector = 244 m, diameter of chimney = 10.16 m. The obtained result, the collector temperature increases by 7°C, the pressure potential is found 182.82 Pa, the pressure drop on the turbine was 121.88 Pa, the pressure loss was 60.94 Pa and the power output 123.59 kW. As a result, the collector efficiency increases to 43.58% and the overall efficiency of plant to 0.242%. Key: solar chimney, collector efficiency, thermal simulation
‘Don’t Forget the Children’: A Qualitative Study When a Parent Is at End of Life From Cancer
Authors: McCaughan Eilis , Semple Cherith J , Hanna Jeffrey R
Published: April 2021

Purpose: Preparation for end of life is one of the greatest challenges faced by parents with cancer who have dependent children (<18 years old); with requirement for support from professionals. This aim of this study is to explore how parents can be best supported in relation to their children, when a parent is at end of life from cancer. Methods: An interpretive qualitative study, using 79 semi-structured interviews with parents at end of life (n3), bereaved parents (n21), health and social care professionals (HSCPs), (n32) and funeral directors (n23) Data were analysed thematically and triangulated.Results: Parents are central to preparing their children for the death of a parent. Striving for everyday ordinariness, maximising social networks, maintaining hope, and making preparations for the future are helpful for families when a parent is at end of life. Most HSCPs were unaware of the challenges faced by parents at end of life, and psychosocial support was often left outside the caring realm. As a result, funeral directors noted complexities faced by the families after the death. Results are discussed under four themes: (1) communication with the children as a process, (2) coping throughout the unfolding end of life experience, (3) tension and complexities at end of life, and (4) preparing for the future.Conclusions: Parents should be reassured that by involving the children early in the end of life experience when the ill-parent is ‘well enough’ to parent, enables them to be actively involved in supporting their child through one of the greatest life changing event. A number of recommendations are discussed for professionals.
CALUX Bioassay analysis of PCDD/Fs and dioxin-like PCBs in Bovine milk and Municipal dumping site Ash samples from Indian environment
Authors: Mayilsamy Murugasamy , Sangeetha Seethappan , Nakamura Masafumi , Ko Shunkei , Govarthanan Muthusamy , Krishnamoorthi Vimalkumar
Published: April 2021

This study showed the distribution of PCDD/Fs and DL-PCBs in bovine milk and ash samples collected from urban and rural areas of south Tamil Nadu and one milk sample from Japan. Around 25 bovine milk samples and 16 ash samples were collected accordingly. The total TEQ for PCDD/Fs and DL-PCBs were ranged from 0.028 to 7.331 pg TEQ/g fat. Some of the districts were showed higher PCDD/Fs and DL-PCBs concentration in milk and ash samples. Further, BM14 (7.331 pg-TEQ/g fat) and BM21 (6.406 pg-TEQ/g fat) area exceed level of PCDD/Fs and DL-PCBs than WHO regulation limits (6 pg-TEQ/g fat). Likewise, BM3, BM8, and BM14 areas showed higher milk contamination by dioxins, which exceed the WHO regulation limit (3pg-TEQ/g fat). Similarly, the total TEQ for PCDD/Fs and DL-PCBs in ash samples was ranged from 0.02 to 1.2 ng TEQ/g. AS3 (1.2 ng-TEQ/g) and AS11 (1.06 ng-TEQ/g) areas showed higher dioxins and DL-PCBs among the samples. This study provides an overview of dioxins and dioxin-related compounds contamination in bovine milk and ash samples. Further, the CALUX assay method validation has simplifies the monitoring of dioxin contamination in the environment.
Association of Chromosomal Aberrations and Maternal Serum Progesterone Levels in First Trimester Miscarriages: A Case Series
Authors: Chiam Paula , Lim Cheryl Jia En , Allen John C. , Chang Kenneth , Yong Min Hwee , Tan Nguan Soon , Tan Thiam Chye , Ku Chee Wai
Published: April 2021

Fetal genetic aberrations constitute up to 50% of all early miscarriages, with aneuploidies accounting for the majority. Serum progesterone is useful in triaging women presenting with threatened miscarriage, and a low progesterone level has been associated with an increased risk of miscarriage. This study examined the association between chromosomal aberrations and maternal serum progesterone level measured at presentation with threatened miscarriage. In this prospective cohort study, we that recruited women who presented with threatened miscarriage and subsequently progressed to a complete miscarriage at or before 16 weeks of gestation. 9 patients with products of conception (POC) available were analysed. They were triaged at presentation based on their serum progesterone level and patients with a level < 35 nmol/L were treated with oral progestogen according to the hospital department protocol. Genetic material extracted from the POC was analysed with chromosomal microarray. In these 9 patients, most miscarriages (88%) were due to fetal genetic abnormalities and the most common genetic anomalies was trisomy (57%). Patients with abnormal POC karyotype had a low mean serum progesterone level of 24.0 ± 23.3 nmol/L. This level is much lower than the patient with a normal POC karyotype, who had a serum progesterone level of 42.9 nmol/L. The most common cause for miscarriages in this study was genetic anomalies and these affected patients had a low serum progesterone level (< 35 nmol/L). These patients miscarried despite treatment with oral progestogen, due to underlying fetal genetic abnormalities. Further studies should be conducted to validate the association between serum progesterone and genetic abnormalities and shed light on the etiologies and improve risk stratification for threatened miscarriage.
Effective Attributed Network Embedding with Information Behavior Extraction
Authors: Hu Ganglin , Pang Jun , Mo Xian
Published: April 2021

Network embedding has shown its effectiveness in many tasks such as link prediction, node classification, and community detection. Most attributed network embedding methods consider topological features and attributed features to obtain a node embedding, but ignore its implicit information behavior features, including information inquiry, interaction, and sharing. This can potentially lead to ineffective performance for downstream applications. In this paper, we propose a novel network embedding framework named information behavior extraction ( IBE ), that incorporates nodes' topological features, attributed features, and information behavior features into a joint embedding framework. To design IBE , we use an existing embedding method (e.g., SDNE, CANE, or CENE) to extract a node's topological features and attributed features into a basic vector. Then, we propose a topic-sensitive network embedding ( TNE ) model to extract node information behavior features and eventually generate information behavior feature vectors. In our TNE model, we propose an importance score rating algorithm ( ISR ), which considers both effects of the topic-based community of a node and its interaction with adjacent nodes to capture a node information behavior features. Eventually, we concatenate a node information behavior feature vector with its basic vector to get its ultimate joint embedding vector. Extensive experiments demonstrate that our method achieves significant and consistent improvements, compared to several state-of-the-art embedding methods on link prediction.
Breast Cancer, Diabetes Mellitus And Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Toward Exploring Their Possible Associations
Authors: Takigami Naoko Hashimoto , Kuniyoshi Shimpei , Miki Yasuhiro , Tamaki Kentaro , Kamada Yoshihiko , Uehara Kano , Tsuchiya Seiko , Terukina Shigeharu , Iwabuchi Erina , Kanai Ayako , Miyashita Minoru , Ishida Takanori , Tamaki Nobumitsu , Sasano Hironobu
Published: April 2021

Purpose: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) has been one of the well known risk factors of breast cancer (BC) development and also associated with adverse clinical outcomes of BC patients. Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists have been used as antidiabetic therapeutic agents and recent epidemiological studies have reported their use to be correlated with increased BC risks. However, biological or pathological details have remained unknown. Therefore, in this study, we examined the status of GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R) in BC with and without DM and correlated the findings with the clinicopathological factors of the patients to explore the possible involvement of GLP-1 in BC pathology.Methods: We immunolocalized GLP-1R in cancer and adjacent non-pathological breast tissues in BC patients with DM (125 cases) and without DM (58 cases). We then compared the status of GLP-1R with that of fibroblast growth factor 7 (FGF7) and fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2), Ki-67 labeling index (Ki-67 LI) and disease free survival (DFS) of the patients and also between cancerous and non-pathological breast tissues.Results: GLP-1R immunoreactivity was significantly higher (p=0.044) in the patients with DM than without in carcinoma tissues. However, this was detected only in invasive carcinoma (p<0.01) and not in non-invasive carcinoma nor non-pathological mammary glands. FGF7 was significantly correlated with the status of GLP-1R in BC (p=0.045). In addition, in ER positive BC cases, those with GLP-1R positive status tended to have higher Ki-67 LI of more than 14% (p=0.070).Conclusion: These findings all demonstrated the possible association between GLP-1R status and biological features of BC, especially of invasive BC in DM patients.
Mortality Rate and Years of Life Lost Due to COVID-19 in Iran, Fars Province.
Authors: Azarbakhsh Habibollah , Mirahmadizadeh Alireza , Ghaem Haleh , Amiri Sanaz , Mokhtari Ali Mohammad , Lotfi Mehrzad , karimi Mohammadreza , Hemmati Abdolrasool
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Corona became a public health threat worldwide in late 2019, in which its main target is lower airway. The aim of this study was to calculate the mortality rate and years of life lost due to COVID-19 in Iran.Method: All definite deaths due to COVID-19 from February 20, 2020 to the February 12, 2021 have been used. Descriptive analyzes included mean and standard deviation of age at death, the number and sex ratio of deaths. Then the age and sex-specific mortality rate were calculated. YLL were calculated using the standard life expectancy based on the 2015 WHO life-table.Results: During the study period, 3169 (58.78% men and 41.22% women) definite coronary deaths occurred. The mean age at death was higher in women than men. The fatality rate of the disease was 1.83%. The highest number of years of life lost, according to both methods of YLL calculation, was in the age group of 69-60 years and the lowest was in the age group of 10-19 years.Conclusion: This study showed that due to the high mortality of this disease, decision makers should focus on reducing mortality in the start of the next waves of COVID-19.
Conversion of Brewers’ Spent Grain into Proteinaceous Animal Feed using Solid State Fermentation
Authors: Iliopoulos Christos , ARAPOGLOU DIMITRIOS , Chorianopoulos Nikos , Markou Giorgos , Haroutounian Serkos
Published: April 2021

Brewers’ Spent Grain (BSG) represents the 85% of the total residue produced during the beer brewing process, with a global annual production volume exceeding the 30 Mtons. Study herein concerns the application of solid state fermentation (SSF) process for the efficient transformation of BSG into high nutritional value animal feed. The investigated SSF procedure was initiated by Pleurotus ostreatus, which constitutes a natural source of β-glucans and metabolites (vitamins, nutrients). Thus, it is possible to reduce the environmental impacts caused by BSG production and simultaneously contribute to the tackling of proteinaceous animal feed shortage observed during the last decade. The method developed resulted in a significant increase of protein content by 49.49%, a 10-fold increase of their 1,3 − 1,6 β-glucans content and a respective reduction of cellulose content by 11.42%. The application of this method is expected to provide a solid background for the utilization of BSG as substrate for fungi initiated SSF, a bioprocess allowing the significant reduction of the environmental impact caused by the beer brewing industry and simultaneously produce animal feed with high protein content and nutritional characteristics suitable for fulfilling animals’ nutritional needs and improving their welfare.
Gravitational Fields and Gravitational Waves
Authors: Yuan Tony
Published: April 2021

For any object with ﬁnite velocity, the relative velocity between them will aﬀect the eﬀect between them. This eﬀect can be called the chasing eﬀect (general Doppler eﬀect). LIGO discovered gravitational waves and measured the speed of gravitational waves equal to the speed of light c. Gravitational waves are generated due to the disturbance of the gravitational ﬁeld, and the gravitational waves will aﬀect the gravitational force on the object. We know that light waves have the Doppler eﬀect, and gravitational waves also have this characteristic. The article studies the following questions around gravitational waves: What is the spatial distribution of gravitational waves? Can the speed of the gravitational wave represent the speed of the gravitational ﬁeld (the speed of the action of the gravitational ﬁeld on the object)? What is the speed of the gravitational ﬁeld? Will gravitational waves caused by the revolution of the sun aﬀect planetary precession? Can we modify Newton’s gravitational equation through the inﬂuence of gravitational waves?
Global Deposits of Rare Earth Elements and Prospects in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Kasay Georges M. , Bolarinwa Anthony , Aromolaran Olawale K. , Nzolang Charles , Kivava Alain S.
Published: April 2021

Rare earth elements (REE) are not as rare as their name indicate, but the deposits in which they are found at an economic interest are not very common. They are enriched in carbonatites, pegmatites, alkaline and per-alkaline igneous rocks, placers, laterites, veins, bauxites and iron adsorption clays. Economic deposits of REE are mined from 3 main minerals, which are bastnaesite, monazite and xenotime. REE have been widely used in many high-tech and green technology gadgets, including batteries, computer memories, permanent magnets, smartphones, solar panels, wind turbines, speakers, air conditioners and many other applications. Due to these applications, REE are sought after by many developed and developing economies. The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is endowed with mineral potentials. Studies have speculated REE concentration in areas with carbonatite complexes such as Lueshe, Bingo and Kirumba. Other regions with REE potentials include pegmatites. A high weathering rate contributes to metals and REE deposition in lateritic profiles of pegmatites and other alkaline rocks. Additionally, there are placers in many locations of riverbanks. For example, the alluvial placers of Kabengelwa, Mashabuto and Obaye are enriched in monazite and contain significant quantities of rare earth oxides. We believe that, with more research and explorations, the DRC could be a potential target for future REE projects.
Insight into the Evolution of the Cellulose Microstructure Through the Enzyme Pretreatment Method
Authors: Ding Qijun , Jing Limin , Han Wenjia , Guan Yanpeng , Jiang Yifei , Du Peng , Wu Chaojun , Li Ronggang , Li Xia
Published: April 2021

In this work, the changes of properties and microstructure of cellulose (bleached hardwood kraft pulp (BHKP)) subjected to different enzyme pretreatment times (0–10 h) were explored for further fibrillation. The various properties of the pretreated cellulose gradually decrease with the elapse of time relative to the pristine material, such as yield, water retention value, aspect ratio and degree of polymerization, etc. Enzyme pretreatment can promote the peeling of fibrils and loosen the amorphous areas of cellulose identified by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). A thorough investigation of the relation between pretreatment and evolution of inter-/intra-molecular H-bonds in cellulose was conducted including content and cleave sequence of H-bonds by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), second derivative analysis and generalized two-dimensional correlation spectroscopy (2DCOS). The intermolecular H-bonds with the most significant decrease in content was cleaved first relative to the intramolecular H-bonds. These discoveries provide theoretical support to more effective pretreatment method for commercial production of fibrils from cellulosic fibers.
Application of a lateral intertubercular sulcus plate in the treatment of proximal humeral fractures: A finite element analysis and example in clinical practice
Authors: Li Dong , Lv WenXue , Chen WenMing , Meng Jing , Liu Song , Duan ZongKang , Yu Bo
Published: April 2021

Background: Inversion deformities caused by insufficient medial support are especially common when the PHILOS locking plate is used to treat proximal humeral fractures. Using finite element analysis, the present study aimed to compare the biomechanical properties of a PHILOS locking plate (PLP) and a PLP combined with a lateral intertubercular sulcus plate (PLP-LSP) in the fixation of proximal humeral fractures with loss of the medial column. We also present the results of a 69-year-old female patient with a comminuted fracture of the proximal right humerus (Neer type four-part fracture) who underwent successful surgical treatment with a PHILOS plate combined with an auxiliary lateral intertubercular sulcus plate. Methods: After creating a three-dimensional finite element model of a proximal humeral fracture with loss of the medial column, three implant models were established. A full-screw PLP was used in Group A, a PHILOS plate lacking medial screw support and an auxiliary plate (MPLP-LSP) was used in Group B, and a full-screw PLP-LSP was used in Group C. The three fixation models were applied to the proximal humeral fracture model, following which horizontal, compressive, and rotational loads were applied to the humerus model. We evaluated structural stiffness and stress distribution of the implant and compared displacement and angle changes among the three models. Results: Displacement and angle changes were smallest in Group C (PLP-LSP) compared to those in Group A and Group B. The implant model used in Group C also showed the highest structural rigidity, endured less von Misses stress, and had the strongest stability than that used in Group A and Group B. Conclusion: An LSP placed at the internodal grove not only aids in anatomical reduction but also provides effective lateral and medial support, thereby reducing stress on the PLP and providing better stability in patients with proximal humeral fractures.
Soft Multimedia Assisted New Energy Productive Landscape Design Based on Environmental Analysis and Edge-Driven Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Ma Bin , Dong Yu , Liu Hongxiu , Cao Zixu
Published: April 2021

New energy landscape architecture is a new energy building integrated with aesthetics and art design, which can meet people's dual needs of low energy consumption and architectural aesthetics. In recent years, the development speed of new energy landscape architecture is increasing, and the design and research of new energy landscape architecture has become a hot spot. In the era of media and information, the thinking mode, aesthetic concept and living space demand of the public and landscape architects are changing. The new values, aesthetics, technology and design concepts will always stimulate and promote the urban landscape design to constantly enrich itself. Therefore, it is a new exploration direction to shape new urban landscape design through multimedia technology. Multimedia technology uses computer to process text, graphics, images, sound, animation, video and other information to establish logical relationship and human-computer interaction. The virtual reality technology in multimedia integrates the latest development achievements of computer graphics, multimedia, artificial intelligence, multi-sensor, network, parallel processing and other technologies. Multimedia technology makes the color of the landscape form the most visual impact factors, it is easy to leave a deep impression on people, to achieve the visual effect of the landscape. Therefore, this paper studies the multimedia assisted landscape design of new energy production based on environmental analysis and artificial intelligence.
Excess Noise Factor in Avalanche Photodiodes with Dead Space Effect
Authors: Angadi Vignesh Reddy
Published: April 2021

This project aims to produce a graphical user interface (GUI) for MATLAB programs written by J.S.Marsland as part of his research into the excess noise factor in avalanche photodiodes (APDs). The GUI will be produced using the GUIDE package supplied with the MATLAB software combined with the MATLAB programs. The GUI will then be used to compare this research work with the research work of others e.g. the Monte Carlo calculations made by the research group at the French Aerospace Laboratory (ONERA). Comparison with other research work will require the digitization of some graphs published in academic journals.
Postoperative Care of Two Patients With End-stage Heart Disease Combined With Type a Aortic Dissection
Authors: Xu Xiaofeng , Cheng Yunqing , Kuang Juntao , Xie Xuejun , Huang Jinsong , Wu Yanfen , Lan Xueying , Fan Ruixin
Published: April 2021

BackgroundHeart transplantation is a major method in the treatment of end-stage heart disease. Acute type A aortic dissection is a rare and life-threatening disease requiring emergency surgery. Although surgical treatment has achieved certain progress in terms of techniques and equipment in the recent years, the surgical mortality rate is still as high as 25%. It is very rare for patients with end-stage heart disease to simultaneously contract aortic dissection. This study will explore the main points of care after end-stage heart disease combined with aortic dissection.ResultsThe cold ischemic times of the donor heart of the two patients were 340 min and 361 min, and the cardiopulmonary bypass times were 381 min and 411 min. Both were successfully operated and discharged uneventfully. ConclusionsThe combination of heart transplantation with aortic dissection surgery is complicated and is prone to multiple postoperative complications. The nursing staff is required to master the main points of care after heart transplantation and aortic dissection, observe problems in a timely manner, intervene early, and promote the patient’s recovery.
Gaps in Evidence for the Use of Medically Authorized Cannabis: Ontario and Alberta, Canada
Authors: Lee Cerina , Round Jessica M , Klarenbach Scott , Hanlon John G , Hyshka Elaine , Dyck Jason R.B. , Eurich Dean T
Published: April 2021

Background

With legal access to medical cannabis in Canada since 2001, there is a need to fully characterize its use at both the individual and population-level. We draw on data from Canada’s largest cohort study of medical cannabis to identify the primary reasons for medical cannabis authorization in Canada from 2014–2019 in two major Provinces: Alberta (AB) and Ontario (ON); and review the extent that evidence supports each indication.
Methods

Self-reported outcomes were collected from adult patients in ON (n = 61835) and AB (n = 3410) who were authorized medical cannabis. At baseline, sociodemographic, primary medical information, and validated clinical questionnaires were completed by patients as part of an individual assessment. Patients’ reasons for seeking medical cannabis were compared to published reviews and guidelines to assess the level of evidence supporting medical cannabis use for each condition.
Results

Medical cannabis use in both AB and ON were similar in both demographic and reason for authorization. The most common reasons for medical cannabis authorization were: 1) pain (AB = 77%, ON = 76%) primarily due to chronic musculoskeletal, arthritic, and neuropathic pain, 2) mental health concerns (AB = 32.9%, ON = 38,7%) due to anxiety and depression, and 3) sleep problems (AB = 28%, ON = 25%). More than 50 other conditions were identified as reasons for obtaining authorization.
Conclusion

In both AB and ON, the majority of reasons for medical cannabis authorization are not substantiated by evidence to fully support its efficacy for long-term use. Ongoing epidemiological studies on medical cannabis on these treatments are warranted to fully outline its treatment benefits or risks.
Enhancement of microbial fuel cell performance by anodic communities adaptation and cathodic mixed nickel copper oxides (NiO-CuO) on graphene electrocatalyst
Authors: Khater Dena Z , Amin Rabab S , Zhran Monera O , El-Aziz Zeinab K Abd , Mahmoud Mohamed , Hassan Helmy M , El-Khatib Kamel M
Published: April 2021

Mixed transition metal (Ni & Cu) oxides supported on graphene (NiO-CuO/G) electrocatalyst was fabricated and tested as an efficient and cost-effective cathode for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in microbial fuel cells (MFCs). The electrocatalytic activity and selectivity of the NiO-CuO/G for ORR were examined using linear sweep voltammetry measurements (LSV) on a rotating disc electrode (RDE) in pH-neutral electrolyte. In comparison with a benchmark platinum cathode, the NiO-CuO/G showed high selectivity towards the ORR. The analysis of Koutecky-Levich relationship suggests that the electrocatalyst follows the four-electron ORR pathway. NiO-CuO/G cathode in an air-cathode MFC exhibited a slightly lower power density 21.25 mWm− 2 compared to 50.4 mW m− 2 for Pt/C. Both scanning and transmission electron microscope analyses of anodic biofilm showed that a thick biofilm was successfully developed with a rod-like shape. Biochemical characterization of the communities showed that four genera named Escherichia coli (E-coli), Shewanella putrefaciens, Bacillus cereus and Bacillus Thuringiensis/mycoides, which belonging to GammaProteobacteria and Firmicutesphylathatwerethe most abundant bacteria in the anodic biofilm. Our results revealed that NiO-CuO/G cathode demonstrates an enhanced electrocatalytic activity toward ORR in a pH-neutral solution; thus, the newly developed mixed transition metal oxides electrocatalyst can replace other expensive Pt-based catalysts for MFC application.
Time Series Trend and Variability Analysis of Temperature and Rainfall in West Shewa Zone of Oromia, Ethiopia
Authors: Assefa Daniel , Mengistu Mesfin
Published: April 2021

BackgroundThe paper focus on time series trend and variability analysis of observed rainfall and temperature records from 16 stations during 1985-2015. ResultsBoth the summer and annual rainfall have an increasing trend but not statistically significant. Regards to variability, low to very high levels of variability were recorded according to the seasons and annual rainfall, whereas, moderate to extremely high levels of variability were observed. The result of the Mann Kendall test portrays that the mean minimum temperature was raised by 0.05 oC, while the maximum temperature was increased rose by 0.03 oC/30 years. The monthly maximum temperature also shows an increasing trend with the lowest record during August (22.05 oC) and the highest in the March (26.49 oC) except in the month of November and December. Similarly, an increasing trend was observed with a mean monthly minimum temperature with the lowest mean of 8.42Co in December and the highest mean of 11.12 oC recorded in April. Besides, a low level of variability was seen both in the case of minimum and maximum temperature were observed in all months. ConclusionsTherefore, since the observed trends of both temperature and total rainfall show abnormal shifts, there is an urgent need for policymakers to design systematic planning and management activities to rain-fed agriculture.