bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intestinal Parasitosis among School Going Children in Bhaktapur, Nepal.
Authors: Shrestha Sabnum , Laluwa Sulochana , Ranamagar Bimala , Thapa Pramila , Pradhan Manoj , Adhikari Nabaraj , Thapa Shrestha Upendra
Published: March 2022

Background: Intestinal parasites continue to be an important cause of public health problems in the world, particularly among children living in developing countries. The study was aimed to assess the load of intestinal parasites among school going children of Bhaktapur district of Nepal.

Methods: A total of 184 stool samples were collected from school children of Bhaktapur district between the age group 3-14 years. The stools collected were examined by direct microscopy and confirmed by concentration methods (formal ether sedimentation technique).

Results: Prevalence of intestinal parasites among the children was found to be 42.9% (79/184). Giardia lamblia was the most predominant parasite, showing the incidence of 35.7%, followed by Taenia spp 22.6% and Blastocystis hominis 14.3%.

Conclusions: High parasitic infection in this study area may be due to lack of pure drinking water, lack of health education, unhygienic condition and presence of livestock near home, which is a major public health threat among school going children resulting serious illness.
Use of Pleural Fluid C- Reactive Protein and comparison with Light’s criteria to differentiate Exudative from Transudative Pleural Effusions in Nepalese Population.
Authors: Thapa Jiwan , Basnet Amal , Sapkota Kalyan , Thapa Anuja Bhandari
Published: March 2022

Pleural effusion is a common medical problem with diagnostic dilemma, this study was conducted to determine if C- Reactive Protein level in pleural fluid is a better diagnostic tool in differentiating exudative and transudative pleural effusion, to compare with parameters of modified Light’s criteria and its application in Nepalese population. This was an  Analytical, Cross-Sectional, Hospital Based Observational study of patients admitted at Department of Medicine, Bir Hospital during period of one year (January 2014-december 2015). A total of 86 patients with Unilateral Pleural effusion whose cause was unknown were enrolled. Diagnosis of pleural effusion was established by a detailed history, physical examination, chest radiograph, ultrasonography and CT scan in few cases.

Out of 86 samples examine half of them were smokers and smoking had more association with females (58%).  Cut-off values of pleural fluid CRP level ≥ 10 mg/dl showed sensitivity of 87.60% where as in case of clinically identified transudates, 1 transudates out  of 13 were misclassified as exudates. The specificity is 92.30%, the positive predictive value and negative predictive values were 98.14%, and 37.50% with a significant p value of <0.001. All transudates were classified correctly as transudates by CRP level > 30 mg/dl, whereas 44 exudates were misclassified as transudates. This criterion had a sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive values of 100%, 36.23%, 27.87% and 100% respectively with a significant  p value of <0.001. On evaluating the individual parameters of Light’s Criteria; Pleural fluid LDH level > 2/3rd of LDH level of normal serum classified 64(74.41%) cases of pleural effusion as exudates, this criteria had a sensitivity of 86.30%, specificity of 92.30%, positive predictive value of 98.43 % and a negative predictive value of 54.55 % with a significant p value of< 0.001and Kappa value is 0.77.While on pleural fluid to serum LDH ratio >0.6, 59 (81.94%) exudates were correctly classified as exudates whereas 13 (18.05%) exudates were classified falsely as transudates. This study could be applicable to our  population as well, however multi centric studies with larger sample size are necessary.
Epidemiological study of Intestinal Parasitosis in rural area of Nepal.
Authors: Sapkota Kalyan , Thapa Jiwan , Basnet Amal , Dhakal Bijaya
Published: March 2022

Intestinal parasitosis is one of the major public health and socio-economic problems in Nepal. It is ranked among the top10 morbidities in Nepal. Fecal samples were collected from the patients attending to different hospitals and privatelaboratories throughout the Myagdi district. A total of 985 participants were included in the study. The age ranged from 1to 86 years. Commonly affected age group was of below 15 years. Male to female ratio was 1.3:1. The general prevalence  of infection with different types of intestinal parasites was 14.7% (145). The fecal examination revealed different types of  helminths (7.2%) and protozoan (7.5%). Giardia lamblia was the most common parasite (5.5%), followed by Entamoeba histolytica 2.0%, Ascaris lumbricoides 4.0%, Hookworm 1.8%, Trichuris trichiura 0.8%, Hymenolepis nana 0.4% and Taenia spp 0.2%. Multiple parasites were observed in 11 samples. Higher prevalence rates of parasitic infections were seen among children.
Ethnobotany, Taxonomy and Phytochemistry of Cannabis sativa.
Authors: Basyal Puskar , Regmi Prerok
Published: March 2022

Introduction: Cannabis is an annual dioecious plant, which shares its origins with the inception of the first agricultural human societies in Asia. Over the course of time different parts of the plant have been utilized for therapeutic and recreational purposes. Linnaeus was the first person to describe Cannabis as Cannabis sativa (C.sativa). Numerous bioactive phytochemicals are extracted from C. sativa that signal for medicinal development.
Methods:The review aims to provide a different perspective of the ethnobotanical, taxonomy  and chemical aspects  from the ancient times of C. sativa. The study was conducted with the review of scientific papers from Pubmed, Scopus, Wiley Online Library, Springer, Elseveir, Science Direct, Taylor Francis and online textbooks of C. sativa.  
Results: C. sativa has its origin from Asia. It has  traditional spiritual, household and therapeutic uses. Cannabis is a monotypic genera with three different varieties: C sativa var. sativa, C sativa var. indica, C sativa var.  ruderalis. A total of 565 chemicals (120 cannabinoids and 445 non cannabinoids) have been recorded in Cannabis.  
Conclusions: Cannabis is an ethnobotanical rich and phytochemical significant therapeutic plant. Because of lack of scientific research, the taxonomic aspects are still hidden. This study recommends exploratory study on ethnobotanical, taxonomical and phytochemicals of Nepalese Cannabis.
Vaccines and the role of the immune system: An approach in decreasing COVID -19 mortality.
Authors: Marasini Bishnu
Published: March 2022

The unprecedented outbreaks of flu-like illness in the last century have caused a huge disaster for mankind. Similar health disasters were also seen in this century, which succumbed to severe illness, but were brought under control, hence preventing it from becoming a pandemic. The outbreak of a novel coronavirus, the SARS-CoV-2 saw its unusual fate by taking a turn as a pandemic, with millions of lives taken worldwide and numbers still reaching their peak with each successive wave.  
There are over billions of different types of viruses found in nature and most of them are found in the sea. Humans over their lifetime encounter several disease-causing viruses, but so far, our body's immune system has been able to cope with them. Furthermore, the SARS-CoV-2 could be defended, only if we had an immune system, which was familiar with this virus-like other virus known to humans. The unique nature along with mutants of this virus has put the entire world at risk of causing mild, moderate to severe forms of the disease.  
The finding of the mortality rate of COVID-19 may be a challenge. However, other pandemics were equally deadlier, such as the H1N1 flu pandemic in 2009, during which the estimated cases were 0.7–1.4 billion; and the estimated death was 151,700–575,400 (~0.05%). During the typical seasonal flu, every year 340 million –1 billion people are infected, and the estimated death is 290,000–650,000/year (<0.1%). HIV/AIDS has led to approximately 37.9 million deaths globally. The Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), mortality rate over 35%. Ebola pandemic 2014, mortality rate over 50%.  
In the context of Nepal, prediction of both prevalence and mortality rate seems difficult, making it an epidemiological challenge. The communicable nature of this disease along with the various challenges in mass vaccination has made us adhere to stringent public health measures such as social distancing, wearing of face masks, and maintaining hand hygiene to control the spread of disease.  
There are certain herbs, spices, and other traditional home remedies, which have been considered to boost the immune system as well as combat the mild form of COVID-19. However, these preparations would put us at health risk, since the evidence regarding such therapies is low.
Consolidation of the state security system as a way to improve its functioning
Authors: Gwardyński Robert
Published: March 2022

Security constitutes the basis for efficient performance of the state's functions. It is
obtained as part of the security process performed by this part of the state organization,
which is called the state security system. It is made up of all entities (people, teams
and institutions related to each other) with legally designated competences (duties)
and specific functions related to ensuring the conditions for the safe functioning of state
structures and protection of the population and national property against the effects
of crisis and war influences at all organizational levels of the state. It is in the interest
of the state and its citizens that the state security system works more and more efficiently.
One of the possibilities of its improvement is its consolidation by increasing its
compactness through proper shaping of connectivity, cooperation, ties and organizational
couplings, or strengthening the role of the most addictive element. This compactness
of the system should give it the form of organization, which guarantees synergy consisting
in such a combination of its many elements that their impact produces an effect
greater than the sum of the effects caused by each of the elements separately.
Children and youth in the social life of out-of-school education: theoretical foundations of the problem
Authors: Pustovit Hryhorii , Pobirchenko Natalia
Published: March 2022

The article highlights and analyzes the role of the space of social life of children
and youth in out-of-school educational institutions in the processes of their socialization.
It was proved that a modern out-of-school educational institution has all the necessary
conditions and technologies for socialization of children and youth, and therefore
has the opportunity to have a significant impact not only on individual children
or children, but also on public life as a whole. Within these processes, the leading
areas of socialization are defined and characterized: socio-psychological, the essence
of which is the child’s unconscious assimilation of social behavior, following an example,
unconscious identification with a person and socio-pedagogical, which consists
in the processes of assimilation children and young people accepted in society norms
and rules of conduct, social standards of communication, certain stereotypes and views.
The role of a modern out-of-school educational institution, which builds its educational,
upbringing, developmental and socializing activities on democratic and humanistic
principles, and therefore considered an open educational system that actively interacts
in the socialization of children and youth with the environment.
Emphasis is placed on the need to solve the problem of uniting the efforts of all
social institutions of education, upbringing, development and socialization of the growing
individual, which is leading in the formation of the citizen of the XXI century
and should be considered in the plane although this is undoubtedly important, but more
so in psychological and pedagogical and socio-pedagogical, based on the current goals
of the New Ukrainian education, aimed at forming vital competencies of the growing
individual.
It was proved that modern out-of-school education should be considered as one
that reveals the nearest prospects for the development of a growing personality
in the space of his social life in out-of-school educational institutions. Consequently,
these educational institutions should become centers of motivational development
of children and youth, self-realization of their ideas about themselves as "I of the future",
and thus promote professional self-determination in the end. Then the leading
characteristic of the space of social life of children and youth in out-of-school education, which ensures the effectiveness of their socialization, is its free from harassment,
constant guidelines and strict regulation of life of each individual, assistance in meeting
educational needs, motives and desires, creating comfortable personal communication
and cooperation.
Prediction of Carbon Monoxide Concentration with Variation of Support Vector Regression Kernel Parameter Value
Authors: Ernwati Halawa , Bindar Yazid , Purqon Acep , Srigutomo Wahyu
Published: March 2022

Human and industrial activities produce air pollutants that can cause a decline in air quality. In urban areas, transportation activities are the main source of air pollution. One of the emitted air pollutants produced by transportation is carbon monoxide (CO). The understanding of CO concentration is crucial since its overabundance beyond a certain limit will have a negative impact on human health and the environment. In this study, the support vector regression (SVR) method was used to predict CO concentration. The purpose of this study was to predict the hourly CO concentration in the Ujung Berung district, Bandung City, West Java, Indonesia with optimal prediction accuracy. An experiment was carried out by modeling the CO concentration with varying kernel parameter values to obtain accurate prediction results. The suitability of the values between error (ɛ), a trade-off constant (C), and variation mismatch (γ) is vital to obtain optimal prediction results. The results showed that the best prediction accuracy value was 97.68% with kernel parameter values ɛ = 0.02, γ = 30, and C = 0.006. These results may lead to proper decision making on environmental issues and can improve air pollution control strategies.
Sein und Leben
Authors: Sforza Maria Agustina
Published: March 2022

In recent years, Heidegger's thought has been attacked by so-called animal philosophy with the accusation that it leaves no room for animal life, and even devalues it. The present study takes a look at Heidegger's entire work in order to present a diametrically opposed design. For this purpose, the difference Heidegger claims to exist between man and animal is located and interpreted within the frame of reference of ontological difference. In this way, it can be shown that animals do not differ from humans because they lack something, but because they are endowed with a fundamentally different mode of being. Starting from this observation, the author devotes herself to exploring the mode of being that is „life“ and shows that with Heidegger it is possible to speak about the living without degrading it or – which would be equally mistaken – subjecting it to a romanticizing glorification. The result is an approach to animal life that takes its otherness into account.
Minimally Invasive Techniques for the Treatment of Mucoceles in Young Patients: A Case Series
Authors: Kim Jongsung , Kim Gimin , Lee Jaesik , Kim Hyunjung , Nam Soonhyeun
Published: March 2022

Oral mucocele is a common exophytic lesion resulting from the accumulation of saliva due to pathological changes in the minor salivary glands. It is typically asymptomatic and painless and characterized by semipermeable, fluctuant nodules. General treatment methods for mucocele include surgical excision, marsupialization, cryosurgery, and steroid injection. This case report presents the treatment of oral mucocele using micro-marsupialization and a tying method as minimally invasive techniques rather than surgical treatment. Based on this case report, it is suggested that micro-marsupialization and the tying method can be used as alternative methods for the treatment of oral mucocele infants and children with behavioral control problems.
Clinical Management and Short-term Prognosis of Molar-Incisor Malformation Affected Patients: Case Reports
Authors: Kim Hyojin , Lim Sumin , Kim JinYoung
Published: March 2022

Molar-incisor malformation (MIM) is a newly reported dental anomaly with molar root deformity and incisor crown defects. MIM-affected teeth may cause severe pain with no apparent tooth caries. Since the affected molars clinically appear normal, radiographs are recommended for accurate diagnosis on the first visit. Since MIM-affected patients are in mixed dentition, timely and appropriate interventions are needed to avoid unnecessary pain and complicated clinical issues. This report was written to describe two patients who had MIM in early mixed dentition and report their 2-year follow-ups.
Validity of Arch Relationship Measurements in Digital Dental Models
Authors: Ryu Jiin , Yang ByoungEun , Lee Hyelim
Published: March 2022

The aim of the present study is to evaluate the validity of orthodontic measurements including tooth width, Bolton ratio, overjet and overbite on the digital dental models. Dental models of the subjects aged 12 to 18 were obtained in 3 different forms, which were conventional stone model, digital model created with Freedom HD model scanner, and digital model produced with CS3600 intraoral scanner. After measurements were made on the models, reliability and reproducibility of the measurements were evaluated by using intraclass correlation coefficient, while validity was assessed with paired t-test. As a result, significant reliability and reproducibility were verified, with intraclass correlation coefficient exceeding 0.750 in all groups. Measurements of the model scanned group showed an adequate validity in overall and anterior Bolton ratio, overjet, and overbite. Intraoral scanned models showed an adequate validity in anterior Bolton ratio, and overjet. Measurement on intraoral scanned digital models can be considered as an alternative for young children who have difficulty in taking impression. Furthermore, careful considerations on measurement error should be made in clinical situations.
Changes of Occlusion following the Placement of Preformed Metal Crown to the Permanent First Molar in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Kim Jiwoong , Lee Nanyoung , Jih Myeongkwan , Lee Sangho
Published: March 2022

The purpose of this study is to evaluate changes of occlusion following the placement of preformed metal crown in the permanent first molar affected by severe caries or hypomineralization. The study was conducted on 24 patients who met the criteria among the patients with occlusion in the permanent first molar reaching the occlusal plane. Restorative treatment was performed on one first molar using preformed metal crown. Before treatment, immediately after treatment, after 4 weeks, and after 8 weeks, the T-scan Ⅲ was used for measuring distribution of bite force at the maximum intercuspal position, and overbite was measured with digital vernier calipers and change of dental midline was surveyed. After 8 weeks, questionnaires survey was conducted. In most cases, immediately after treatment, the distribution of bite force between the restored side and non-restored side of arch was reversed compared to before treatment, and the overbite was decreased. However, after 4 weeks, bite force of the left and right side was balanced and the distribution of bite force on the restored and non-restored permanent first molars had similar values. Also, the changed overbite and midline were returned to pre-treatment status and there was no significant temporomandibular joint and masticatory discomfort after treatment. In this study, it was confirmed that spontaneous occlusal equilibrium was achieved one month after the placement of preformed metal crown.
Intraoral Scan for Virtual Skull-Dentition Hybrid Images of Young Patients
Authors: Lee Joohee , Yang ByoungEun , Lee Hyelim
Published: March 2022

Additional dentition images are needed because the dentitions are distorted in cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) due to streak artifacts and non-uniformity of the x-ray beam. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the feasibility of improving the dentition image of CBCT scan with intraoral scanner instead of plaster models. Maxilla images from plaster models, two intraoral scanners, and CBCT of 20 patients aged 12 to 18 were used in this study. With one of the intraoral scanners, the full arch was scanned by three segments and combined into a complete full arch. Virtual skull-dentition hybrid images from intraoral scanners were superimposed with the images from plaster models to evaluate the coordinate value difference and distance at reference points. The results showed that the coordinate value difference and distance were smallest with segmented intraoral scan, which showed only 2 ㎛ distance. Intraoral scan may provide good dentition images for virtual skull-dentition images.
Comparative Validation of the Mixed and Permanent Dentition at Web-Based Artificial Intelligence Cephalometric Analysis
Authors: Shin Sunhahn , Kim Donghyun
Published: March 2022

This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the difference in measurement between conventional orthodontic analysis and artificial intelligence orthodontic analysis in pediatric and adolescent patients aged 7 - 15 with the mixed and permanent dentition. A total of 60 pediatric and adolescent patients (30 mixed dentition, 30 permanent dentition) who underwent lateral cephalometric radiograph for orthodontic diagnosis were randomly selected. Seventeen cephalometric landmarks were identified, and 22 measurements were calculated by 1 examiner, using both conventional analysis method and deep learning-based analysis method. Errors due to repeated measurements were assessed by Pearson’s correlation coefficient. For the mixed dentition group and the permanent dentition group, respectively, a paired t-test was used to evaluate the difference between the 2 methods. The difference between the 2 methods for 8 measurements were statistically significant in mixed dentition group: APDI, SNA, SNB, Mandibular plane angle, LAFH (p < 0.001), Facial ratio (p = 0.001), U1 to SN (p = 0.012), and U1 to A-Pg (p = 0.021). In the permanent dentition group, 4 measurements showed a statistically significant difference between the 2 methods: ODI (p = 0.020), Wits appraisal (p = 0.025), Facial ratio (p = 0.026), and U1 to A-Pg (p = 0.001). Compared with the time-consuming conventional orthodontic analysis, the deep learning-based cephalometric system can be clinically acceptable in terms of reliability and validity. However, it is essential to understand the limitations of the deep learning-based programs for orthodontic analysis of pediatric and adolescent patients and use these programs with the proper assessment.
Inactivation of Pathogens in Air Using Ultraviolet Direct Irradiation Below Exposure Limits
Authors: Allen Gary R. , Benner Kevin J. , Bahnfleth William P.
Published: March 2022

A method is described for inactivation of pathogens, especially airborne pathogens, using ultraviolet (UV) radiation emitted directly into occupied spaces and exposing occupants to a dose below the accepted actinic exposure limit (EL). This method is referred to as direct irradiation below exposure limits, or DIBEL. It is demonstrated herein that low-intensity UV radiation below exposure limits can achieve high levels of equivalent air changes per hour (ACHeq) and can be an effective component of efforts to combat airborne pathogens such as the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the virus that causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). An ACHeq of 4 h−1 is presently achievable over a continuous 8 h period for the SARS-CoV-2 virus with UV-C light-emitting diodes (LEDs) having peak wavelength at 275 nm, and future improvements in LED technology and optics are anticipated to enable improvements up to 150 h−1 in the coming decade. For example, the actinic EL is 60 J/m2 at 254 nm, and human coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2, have a UV dose required for 90 % inactivation of about 5 J/m2 at 254 nm. Irradiation by 254 nm UV-C at the EL is expected to provide 90 % inactivation of these organisms in air in about 40 min when the UV-C is delivered at a constant irradiance over 8 h, or in about 5 min if the UV-C is delivered at a constant irradiance over 1 h. Since the irradiation is continuous, the inactivation of initial contaminants accumulates to 99 % and then 99.9 %, and it also immediately begins inactivating any newly introduced (e.g., exhaled) pathogens at the same rate throughout the 8 h period. The efficacy for inactivating airborne pathogens with DIBEL may be expressed in terms of ACHeq, which may be compared with conventional ventilation-based methods for air disinfection. DIBEL may be applied in addition to other disinfection methods, such as upper room UV germicidal irradiation, and mechanical ventilation and filtration. The ACHeq of the separate methods is additive, providing enhanced cumulative disinfection rates. Conventional air disinfection technologies have typical ACHeq values of about 1 h−1 to 5 h−1 and maximum practical values of about 20 h−1. UV-C DIBEL currently provides ACHeq values that are typically about 1 h−1 to 10 h−1, thus either complementing, or potentially substituting for, conventional technologies. UV-C DIBEL protocols are forecast herein to evolve to >100 ACHeq in a few years, potentially surpassing conventional technologies. UV-A (315 nm to 400 nm) and/or UV-C (100 nm to 280 nm) DIBEL is also efficacious at inactivating pathogens on surfaces. The relatively simple installation, low acquisition and operating costs, and unobtrusive aesthetic of DIBEL using UV LEDs contribute value in a layered, multi-agent disinfection strategy.
WUI structureparcelcommunity fire hazard mitigation methodology
Authors: Maranghides Alexander , Link Eric D , Hawks Steven , McDougald Jim , Quarles Stephen L , Gorham Daniel J , Nazare Shonali
Published: March 2022

In the last twenty years, wildland-urban interface (WUI) fires have been growing in severity and size. The structures destroyed by WUI fires have devastated entire communities and have cost billions of dollars while significantly impacting the social fabric and economic well-being of entire regions. Structural losses have been attributed to exposures from embers (firebrands) and fire (radiation and/or convection). As structural losses continue to increase, there is need for a comprehensive hazard assessment and mitigation methodology to harden appropriate structures and parcels effectively and efficiently against ember and fire exposures. The Hazard Mitigation Methodology (HMM) described in this report was developed explicitly to meet these needs. The science-based methodology uses the knowledge collected from post-fire field observations spanning over a dozen years and tens of thousands of hours of field data integration and analysis. Additionally, the HMM utilizes the latest technical knowledge gained from laboratory and large-scale research in fire propagation and hazard mitigation in the WUI. The HMM is the result of a sixteen-month collaborative effort between NIST, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), and the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS). The HMM is a spatial hazard mitigation methodology that provides an implementable path forward by considering the spatial relationships of fuels and exposures and hardening at the structure and parcel levels. The HMM demonstrates how complex structure hardening is, and how and why hazards associated with both fire and ember exposures need to be mitigated. The methodology further demonstrates where structure hardening in the absence of parcel hardening does not work by highlighting the relationships between exposure and hardening. Housing density, structure separation distance, and parcel layouts are also addressed. The methodology was explicitly designed to address the current building stock, i.e., to solve the retrofit challenges, and efforts were made to limit retrofit expenses. While the methodology was developed primarily for retrofits, the presented strategy can also be applied to new construction. This report documents the methodology and addresses the critical issues of mitigation effectiveness at the parcel and community levels. The impacts of partial mitigation at the parcel and community level were addressed for different types of WUI communities.
Low-frequency bandgaps and sound isolation characteristics of a novel Helmholtz-type phononic crystal
Authors: Han Dong-Hai , Zhang Guang-Jun , Zhao Jing-Bo , Yao Hong ,   Fundamentals Department, Air Force Engineering University, Xi’an 710051, China
Published: March 2022

In recent years, the vibration and noise reduction performance of military aircraft has become an important index to measure its performance. In order to solve the problem of low-frequency noise generated by military aircraft, a novel Helmholtz two-dimensional phononic crystal is constructed in this paper. The structure adopts maze-shaped air channel and adds rigid oscillators. On condition that the lattice constant is 62 mm, the lower limit of the first band gap is reduced to about 15 Hz. The structure has four complete band gaps in a range of 0–500 Hz, specifically, they being 15.223–17.464 Hz, 107.46–200.68 Hz, 231.18–310.68 Hz, and 341.14–404.49 Hz. In addition, the sound reduction index of the structure reaches 25 dB at 15 Hz, and two peaks higher than 150 dB appear at about 107 Hz and 231 Hz. which shows distinct sound insulation capability in the low-frequency range. It has engineering significance in controlling the low-frequency noise in the aircraft cabin. The cause of the band gap is explored by analyzing the vibration mode and sound pressure field. The “spring-oscillator” of the structure model is established by the method of “Mechanical-acoustic analogy”. The finite element method and transfer matrix method are used to calculate the upper limit and the lower limit of the first band gap. It is shown that for the first gap of the structure, the results obtained by the two methods are similar, which indicates the correctness of the model hypothesis. Secondly, the effects of structural parameters such as the lattice constant, the length of the air channel and the oscillator material on the first band gap are investigated by finite element method and equivalent model method. It is obtained that the increase of the length of air channel and lattice constant will reduce the lower limit of the first band gap, with other structural parameters remaining unchanged. Moreover, the increase of the density of the oscillator material can effectively reduce the upper limit and lower limit of the second band gap, which further reveals the essence of the formation of the band gap of the structure and verifies the accuracy of the equivalent model. This study provides theoretical support for low frequency noise control and broadens the design of low-frequency phononic crystals.
A cellular and molecular atlas reveals the basis of chytrid development
Authors: Laundon Davis , Chrismas Nathan , Bird Kimberley , Thomas Seth , Mock Thomas , Cunliffe Michael
Published: March 2022

The chytrids (phylum Chytridiomycota) are a major fungal lineage of ecological and evolutionary importance. Despite their importance, many fundamental aspects of chytrid developmental and cell biology remain poorly understood. To address these knowledge gaps, we combined quantitative volume electron microscopy and comparative transcriptome profiling to create an ‘atlas’ of the cellular and molecular basis of the chytrid life cycle, using the model chytrid Rhizoclosmatium globosum. From our developmental atlas, we describe the transition from the transcriptionally inactive free-swimming zoospore to the more biologically complex germling, and show that lipid processing is multifaceted and dynamic throughout the life cycle. We demonstrate that the chytrid apophysis is a compartmentalised site of high intracellular trafficking, linking the feeding/attaching rhizoids to the reproductive zoosporangium, and constituting division of labour in the chytrid cell plan. We provide evidence that during zoosporogenesis, zoospores display amoeboid morphologies and exhibit endocytotic cargo transport from the interstitial maternal cytoplasm. Taken together, our results reveal insights into chytrid developmental biology and provide a basis for future investigations into non-dikaryan fungal cell biology.
Novel protein markers of androgen activity in humans: proteomic study of plasma from young chemically castrated men
Authors: Giwercman Aleksander , Sahlin K Barbara , Pla Parada Indira , Pawlowski Krzysztof , Fehninger Carl , Lundberg Giwercman Yvonne , Leijonhufvud Irene , Appelqvist Roger , Marko-Varga György , Sanchez Aniel , Malm Johan
Published: March 2022

Background:

Reliable biomarkers of androgen activity in humans are lacking. The aim of this study was, therefore, to identify new protein markers of biological androgen activity and test their predictive value in relation to low vs normal testosterone values and some androgen deficiency linked pathologies.

Methods:

Blood samples from 30 healthy GnRH antagonist treated males were collected at three time points: (1) before GnRH antagonist administration; (2) 3 weeks later, just before testosterone undecanoate injection, and (3) after additional 2 weeks. Subsequently, they were analyzed by mass spectrometry to identify potential protein biomarkers of testosterone activity. Levels of proteins most significantly associated with testosterone fluctuations were further tested in a cohort of 75 hypo- and eugonadal males suffering from infertility. Associations between levels of those markers and cardiometabolic parameters, bone mineral density as well as androgen receptor (AR) CAG repeat lengths, were explored.

Results:

Using receiver operating characteristic analysis, 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase (4HPPD), insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 6 (IGFBP6), and fructose-bisphosphate aldolase (ALDOB), as well as a Multi Marker Algorithm, based on levels of 4HPPD and IGFBP6, were shown to be best predictors of low (<8 nmol/l) vs normal (>12 nmol/l) testosterone. They were also more strongly associated with metabolic syndrome and diabetes than testosterone levels. Levels of ALDOB and 4HPPD also showed association with AR CAG repeat lengths.

Conclusions:

We identified potential new protein biomarkers of testosterone action. Further investigations to elucidate their clinical potential are warranted.

Funding:

The work was supported by ReproUnion2.0 (grant no. 20201846), which is funded by the Interreg V EU program.
Review on benefits, toxicity, challenges, and future of graphene-based face masks in the prevention of COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Chaudhary Siyanand Kumar , Chaudhary Nabina , Chaudhary Rahul , Chaudhary Narendra Kumar
Published: March 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 has become a global public health concern. Recently, vaccines have been developed to treat this infectious disease. However, these newly developed vaccines are not widely available and not suitable for all age groups. In such circumstances, it is wise to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as masks, gloves, and gowns to better protect against COVID-19. Face masks have long been recommended as a means of preventing respiratory infections. However, inappropriate use of masks may undermine their effectiveness. The antimicrobial and antiviral properties of graphene have sparked interest in the development of medical devices such as face masks, gloves, and gowns with extra filtering ability to curb the effects of the coronaviruses. Their hydrophobicity, nanosize, large surface area, high electrical and thermal conductivities, and virulence are notable features that reduce the transmission of viruses from person to person via respiratory routes. Graphene-enhanced face masks are intended to encourage travelers to wear them at work and during recreational activities. Moreover, graphene can pose health hazards if inhaled during respiration. In this review, we summarize the current status of graphene and its promising applications for combating COVID-19. Additionally, this review aims to explore the quality of this biomaterial and possible suggestions for the better and safer use of graphene structured respirators.
Retrieval of Separated Endodontic Ni-Ti Rotary File with the Aid of Hypodermic Needle and K-File: A Case Report
Authors: Pallavi1 S , Nagaraj NJ
Published: March 2022

One of the most prevalent operational errors that can occur during endodontic therapy is instrument separation. A fractured instrument may cause a blockage in the root canal, impeding the cleaning and shaping process. There are numerous recommended ways for retrieving a separated instrument, some of which are challenging to implement in clinical practice. Some of these procedures may need removal of substantial root dentin, which may weaken the tooth structure. This case report describes an alternate method for removing a fractured endodontic instrument from the root canal using a hypodermic needle and a K-file. A 31-year-old female patient came to the Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics with the chief complaint of pain in the upper left front tooth region since two weeks. The clinical and radiographic examination indicated the existence of a broken Nickel-Titanium (Ni-Ti) rotary file along the coronal third of the root canal till apex. Under magnification, the fragment was initially exposed by creating a 2 mm trough around the fractured instrument using ultrasonics. In order to fix the fragment, a hypodermic needle was introduced into the root canal and the K-file was fitted in the needle lumen. Together, the fragment was removed without any complications. This technique can be used as a safe, easy, and low-cost approach of fractured instrument retrieval from the root canal.
Determination of Hydroxyproline Amount of Fermented Sausages by HPLC and Revealing the Relationship between Quality Parameters
Authors: Çakır Osman , Dinçoğlu Ahmet H.
Published: March 2022

Introduction: Fermented sausage is the food that has the largest share in consumption among other fermented meat products in Turkey. Although it is difficult to achieve the production standard in fermented sausage production, it is necessary not to exceed the legally determined reference values for quality production. Determining and controlling quality parameters in macro and micronutrients in the composition of fermented sausage, compliance with production standards, storage conditions, etc. has become a necessity.

Purpose: It is aimed to determine whether there is adulteration and imitation in the production of fermented sausages, to determine the structural defects during and after production, to evaluate their compliance with legal regulations and their nutritional quality.

Study Design: The study was mainly designed on the determination of hydroxyproline amounts with a High-Performance Liquid Chromatography device.

Study Place and Duration: The samples used in the study were collected within the borders of Burdur province. All experimental studies were carried out at Burdur Mehmet Akif Ersoy University (MAKU), Veterinary Faculty, Department of Food Hygiene and Technology; MAKU Scientific and Technology Application and Research Center and Uşak University, Engineering Faculty, Department of Food Engineering Laboratories. The study covers a period of 3 months between October 2020 and December 2020.

Methodology: A total of 30 fermented sausage samples, which are offered for sale by butchers and markets, were collected, brought to the laboratory by cold chain and subjected to analysis. After the samples were analyzed in terms of hydroxyproline, physicochemical and textural aspects, they were evaluated statistically.

Results: The pH values of the examined fermented sausages were 4.82-5.93, fat ratios were 12.50-38.50%, protein amounts were 12.24-24.49%, total ash values were 2.37-4.58%, salt values were determined as 1.97-4.05%, humidity values as 20.22-50.36%, water activity (aw) values as 0.80-0.97, hydroxyproline amounts as 2.01-14.85 g/kg. In the textural analysis, elasticity was found between 0.51-0.91 mm, cohesiveness values between 0.37-0.85 and hardness in the range of 94.50-2564.13 mm.

Conclusion: The absence of adulteration in fermented sausage production, compliance with legal reference values and increasing the relevant inspections are of great importance in terms of the quality and nutritional value of the product.
Socio-economic Analysis among the Farmers Engaged in Sericulture Practices in Jorhat District of Assam, India
Authors: Hatibaruah D.
Published: March 2022

Sericulture is profitable and a labour intensive industry with very low input that gives employment generations and regular income to the farmers. Socio-economic factors play an important role in determining the knowledge and adoption levels of sericulture practices for production of eri, muga and mulberry Silk. An investigation has been conducted to know the socio-economic condition of seri farmers in Jorhat and Majuli (undivided) district of Assam. The study revealed that majority of the sericulture farmers of the study are  belonged to middle age group (60.00%), high school passed (34.17%), other backward class (OBC) caste (30.84%), small size family (60.83%) and exclusively of farming category (45.83%) as their main occupation. Majority of the respondents are marginal farmers (61.67%) having operational land holding of below 1 hector, annual income (37.50%) were in the range of Rs.35001 to Rs.75000/-. About 50% of the respondents involved in eri culture, muga culture (25%) and in mulberry culture. (25%), have medium level of source of extension contact (67.50%), medium level of risk bearing ability (78.33%) and medium level of decision making ability (79.17%) and 42.50 % of the farmers got  training exposure to sericulture practices. The study indicates that Sericulture can come out as the most vital opening, in generating income among the farmers in rural areas. Most of the farmers involved in sericultural activities have minimum educational qualification, so government and state sericulture department can organize effective training and development activities along with the line departments to uplift socio-economic status of the seri farmers in rural areas.
Effect of Concept Mapping Instructional Strategy on Senior Secondary School Students’ Achievement in Biology in Enugu Education Zone, Enugu State, Nigeria
Authors: Anthony O. Ugwoke , Chinonyelum Ude Veronica
Published: March 2022

The study investigated the effect of concept mapping instructional strategy on secondary school students’ achievement in biology. Two research questions and three null hypotheses guided the study, and quasi-experimental research design was adopted. The sample for the study comprised two hundred and forty-one (241) students drawn from the population of study in three schools in Enugu Education Zone using multistage sampling technique. The instrument for data collection was Biology Achievement Test (BAT). Data collected from the research questions were analyzed using mean and standard deviation, and Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) was used to test the hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. The results revealed that students taught biology using concept mapping performed better than their counterparts taught using lecture method. Female students had higher achievement scores than their male counterparts in biology when taught using concept mapping. There was no significant interaction effect of instructional methods and gender on students’ mean achievement score in biology. In line with the findings of the study, the educational implications of the findings were highlighted; and recommendations were equally proffered among others that science teachers should adopt concept mapping in teaching.
Comprassion the Lipid Profile among Children Suffreing from Nephrotic Syndrome before and after Remission
Authors: Atal Pinky , Choudhary Kalpana , . Meenakshi
Published: March 2022

Aims: The study aimed to investigate serum cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL (low density lipoprotein), VLDL (very low-density lipoprotein), and HDL (high density lipoprotein) levels in nephrotic syndrome at the onset and during remission in first episode and relapse cases, as well as the relationship between dyslipidemia persistence and severity and disease duration and relapse frequency.

Materials and Methods: A hospital-based prospective study including 30 children aged 0 to 12 years with nephrotic syndrome. They were steroid responsive in 22 cases and steroid dependent in 8 cases. They were assessed clinically and a lipid profile was taken at the start, during remission, and after treatment. A total of 30 children without liver or kidney disease were included as controls.

Results: The mean blood cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, and VLDL all increased significantly (p0.005). When compared to controls, HDL levels increased dramatically (P value 0.001) after nephrotic syndrome treatment. Lipid levels (serum cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, VLDL) were significantly lower during remission in first-episode nephrotic syndrome cases, whereas lipid levels were significantly greater even during remission in recurrent cases. After treatment, total cholesterol and TGL levels were found to be higher, with P values of 0.004 and 0.004 respectively, as the duration of disease increased.

Conclusion: The current investigation demonstrates that widespread hyperlipidemia is present in nephrotic syndrome. When compared to recently diagnosed with NS, this was much higher in relapse cases. Lipid profiles return to normal during remission recently diagnosed with NS, but they are considerably higher in recurrence instances, even during remission. As a result, there is a justification for treatment.
Assessment of Municipal Treated Wastewater Quality for Irrigation in Orathanadu Block of Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Senthilkumar D. , Latha K. R. , Thavaprakaash N. , Malarvizhi P. , Maheswari M.
Published: March 2022

Aim: The current study focuses on the threats to the environment and human health that relate to using treated wastewater produced from the municipal sewage treatment plant of Orathanadu for irrigation purposes.

Study Design: For this purpose, samples were taken monthly from the outflow wastewater and grouped into seasons.

Place and Duration of study: Municipal sewage treatment plant located at Orathanadu, Tamil Nadu, during 2019.

Methodology: The treated wastewater quality parameters such as pH, EC, total dissolved solids, total suspended solids, five days biological oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand, and sodium adsorption ratio were measured monthly and grouped season-wise.

Results: In treated wastewater, the minimal mean electrical conductivity values, total dissolved solids, five days biochemical oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand, and sodium adsorption ratio were 0.81 dS m-1, 515.20 mg L-1, 25.50 mg L-1, 14.85 mg L-1, and 1.59, respectively. The suitability for irrigation based on the Sodium Adsorption Ratio (SAR) was calculated with standard equations and found experimentally as 1.59, 1.62, 1.59 and 1.56 during winter, summer, monsoon and post-monsoon seasons, respectively. To assess water suitability for irrigation, irrigation water classes are utilized for salinity hazard (EC) and sodium hazard (SAR), and samples were C3-S1 class in all four seasons. Furthermore, the data indicated a slight to moderate restriction on using this treated wastewater in irrigation due to chloride hazards.

Conclusion: The results showed that treated wastewater meets national and international irrigation criteria and that treated wastewater can be used without restriction in light and medium-textured soils and in clay soils with leaching and drainage.