bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Game Development and Testing in Education
Authors: Pietriková Emília , Sobota Branislav
Published: November 2022

The following chapter presents an experience with academic education in computer games design and development based on game theory, emphasizing iterative development, rapid (paper) prototyping, and game testing. We demonstrate and comment on various educational activities focused on game testing, describing them in steps and including benefits and motivation. Iteration of card game rules, design of a board game, design of a computer game with a paper prototype, and testing of early-access games are supplemented with students’ practical outputs in both text and graphical form. The results include feedback in the testing forms: Focus Groups, Playtesting, Usability Testing, and Quality Assurance.
Risk Analysis, a Fuzzy Analytic Approach
Authors: Shahrokhi Mahmoud , Vaziri Sarashk Majid , Bernard Alain
Published: November 2022

One of the challenges in designing industrial systems is integrating accident risk analysis with the other technical analysis tools. In the face of this challenge, this paper introduces an analytic approach to defining the occupational risk entities in computer-aided design software by visualizing the risk entities as geometric shapes. It uses energy/barrier analysis and the fuzzy set theory to model the protective role of barriers and infer the effects of harmful agents on humans and assets (targets). It defines dangers and targets presence zones by fuzzy sets, the so-called “fuzzy spaces” demonstrated as geometric profiles. The barriers affect these geometric profiles, and fuzzy union and intersection aggregate the effects of several dangers and protective measures. The model calculates the quantitative risk indexes for the various workplace points. The proposed model is adapted to evaluate the risk in the computer-aided design platform during the workplace simulation. An example illustrates the model application in a one-dimensional space.
Recent Methods for Synthesis of Coumarin Derivatives and Their New Applications
Authors: Sharma Deepika , Dhayalan Vasudevan , Manikandan Chitrarasu , Dandela Rambabu
Published: November 2022

Coumarin (2H-1-benzopyran-2-one) and its heterocyclic derivatives are widely used as lactone scaffolds used by innovative methods for the preparation of heterocyclic molecules. Nowadays, significant biological activities, as well as properties of unique nature coumarin derivatives, have played an important role in the development of novel drugs. This chapter entitles numerous methods of one-pot construction of coumarin derivatives, together with well-known name reactions and other type reactions as well, in the presence of various metal-based homogenous and heterogeneous catalyst system. Coumarin is one of the very important heterocycles and its analogs like natural product and pharmaceutically active drug molecules are extracted/isolated from a plants, animals, and microbes. Coumarin precursors have a wide range of biological activities Hence, the synthesis of coumarins and their heterocyclic analogs have become among the most interesting compound over the last many years in the growth of improved synthetic methodologies to form different types of functional groups that are present in coumarins derivatives. The synthesis of coumarins enabled by current approaches and their most recent bio-applications are discussed in this book chapter. Corresponding complex heterocycles-based coumarin analogs are produced from substituted alkyne substrates and other starting materials as well.
Molecular Challenges and Advances in Clinical Islet Transplantation
Authors: Mohan Nithyakalyani , Sunder Anusha
Published: November 2022

The pathophysiology of diabetes is related to the levels of insulin within the body, and the body’s ability to utilize insulin. Patients with diabetes persistently go through life-threatening hypoglycaemia. Consequently, their quality of life gets affected, progressively leading them to micro- and macro-vascular complications. This is an unmanageable happening despite the technology advancements in insulin formulations. Nevertheless, islet transplantation is emerging as an alternative therapeutic option. Our chapter will elaborate on the recent advancements in this field highlighting the present-day challenges of clinical islet cell transplantation. Additionally, details about the advancements in cutting-edge clinical research, bio-molecular signaling with special reference to the pre and post transplant, the need for beta-cell replacement therapies, including the application of induced pluripotent stem cells and mesenchymal stem cells are also mentioned in this chapter.
What Do We Know about the Diet of Ecuadorian Owls?
Authors: Cadena-Ortiz Héctor , Brito Jorge , Cristina Ríos María , Piedrahita Paolo , Pozo-Zamora Glenda , Wagner Hermann , Freile Juan
Published: November 2022

Ecuador territory barely surpasses 28 million hectares, but it is home to 29 owl species, which represent 62% of all owl species in South America. Knowledge of the trophic ecology of owls is fundamental for understanding how they correlate with their environment, which organisms they prey upon, and to which extent they are beneficial for humans’ health. Although publications in this field have grown in Ecuador in recent years, background information is still deficient. At present, the diet of a handful of species has been studied in this Andean country, and for a few other species, there is only anecdotal information, such as stomach contents of specimens, held in scientific collections. In this chapter, we review knowledge about the diet of owl species occurring in Ecuador and provide guidelines for the study of pellets with the aim of motivating more research in this field.
Perspective Chapter: Bone Metastases of Solid Tumors
Authors: Monteiro Joana , Bonito Nuno
Published: November 2022

Bone metastases are more common than primary bone cancers, especially in adults. Bone is the third most common organ affected by metastases, from many types of solid cancers but especially those arising in the breast and prostate. Besides the impact on survival, bone metastases may have a big impact on morbidity and represents a significant healthcare burden. Skeletal-related events (SREs) include pain, pathologic fracture, spinal cord compression, and hypercalcemia and can cause a deterioration of the quality of life. Detection of bone metastases is essential for accurate staging and optimal treatment; however, there is no consensus or standard approach for diagnosis, so the choice of imaging should be guided by clinical presentation. Treatment goals may consist of controlling pain and other symptoms, preserving and restoring function, minimizing the risk of SREs, stabilizing the skeleton, and enhancing local tumor control. Therapeutic options include pain management/analgesia, osteoclast inhibitors, systemic anticancer therapy, radiation therapy, bone-targeting radiopharmaceutical therapy, surgery, and/or image-guided thermal ablation. The choice of treatment is influenced by factors like symptoms, impact on quality of life, performance status, estimated life expectancy, goals of treatment, and preferences of care.
Viral Diseases of Tomato – Origins, Impact, and Future Prospects with a Focus on Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus and Tomato Yellow Leaf Curl Virus
Authors: F. Hanson Stephen
Published: November 2022

Tomatoes are affected by a number of viruses, with tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV) and tomato yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV) being two of the most damaging. TSWV and TYLCV have severely impacted tomato production worldwide for the past several decades at levels that led to both of these viruses being included in the list of top ten most important plant viruses. While they were first described in the early 1900s, both of these viruses emerged in the 1980s to become the severe and persistent problems they are today. The emergence of both viruses was facilitated in part by the emergence and expansion of more efficient insect vectors. Natural sources of resistance, especially from wild relatives of tomato, have provided some measure of control for both viruses to date. This chapter summarizes the origins, emergence, and impacts of these viruses, along with current approaches and future prospects for control, including both natural and engineered resistance.
Assessment of Employees’ Group Behavior, Interpersonal Influence, and Stress Management Strategies
Authors: Yesuf Nassir-Maru
Published: November 2022

This study was conducted in south Ethiopia, “Sidama” region, “Aleta Wendo” city administration, on employees working in infrastructure and cluster institutions directorate (ICID) and on members of the Solomon metal and wood-work micro-scale enterprise (SMWM-SE). The general objective of the study was to assess employees’ group behavior, conflict resolution styles they practices, types of power they are applying, and stress management strategies they are practicing in one governmental office and in one private enterprise association. A cross-sectional design with a mixed approach was applied to the study. Purposive sampling techniques were used to select the sample. The study area was selected purposefully by the researcher for its convenience to conduct the study. Semi-structured interview guide questions developed by the researcher and a self-administered questionnaire adapted to collect the data. The result of the study was organized and presented based on the four categories: employee group behavior, conflict resolution styles, types of power, and stress management strategies.
Elasmobranchs in Tunisia: Status, Ecology, and Biology
Authors: Enajjar Samira , Saidi Bechir , Nejmeddine Bradai Mohamed
Published: November 2022

The authors have compiled published information on taxonomy, distribution, status, statistics, fisheries, bycatch, biologic, and ecologic parameters mainly on food and feeding habits and reproductive biology of elasmobranchs along the Tunisian coasts. This bibliographic analysis shows that cartilaginous species, including sharks and rays are by far the most endangered group of marine fish, with 63 species, about 53% of all are critically endangered, endangered, or vulnerable. Overfishing, fishing practices, and habitat degradation are leading to dramatic declines of these species. Biologic parameters concern a few species primarily in the Gulf of Gabes. Therefore, recommendations to fill gaps in order to protect and manage elasmobranchs stocks are proposed in this chapter.
Assessment of the Impact of Ungulate Browsing on Tree Regeneration
Authors: Doris Kupferschmid Andrea , Greilsamer Raphaël , Brang Peter , Bugmann Harald
Published: November 2022

Ungulates browse on plants and may have an influence on tree regeneration. Browsing percentage (the relative number of browsed terminal shoots) captures little of the effective browsing impact on tree regeneration, such as reduction in stem number or loss of tree species in the future stand. The main objective is to present the most important factors that can influence the impact of browsing and how these factors can be measured objectively. We conducted a literature review of influencing factors, tested these in different areas of the Swiss forest and performed studies to objectively survey them in inventories. Apart from browsing percentage, the following factors are important for estimating the long-term browsing impact: (i) the spatial distribution and density of tree saplings; (ii) the within-tree browsing intensity; (iii) the site-specific height growth of the tree saplings, and thus the time needed to grow out of the reach of browsers and the possible changes in growth rate ranking between the different selected species; (iv) the possible delay in the tree response after browsing; and (v) the tree mortality induced by browsing. The first four of these factors can be assessed easily and should thus be included in future inventories of browsing impact.
Skin Pigmentation and Cosmetic Considerations for Even Skin Tone
Authors: Damodaran Anita , Nair Nirmala
Published: November 2022

The pigment polymer, melanin is the major determinant of visible pigmentation of skin, hair, and eyes. Its synthesis within organelles called melanosomes in melanocytes and transfer to and distribution within keratinocytes in the epidermis regulates skin pigmentation. Sunlight and its ultraviolet radiation component have a well-established role in skin tanning, through increasing epidermal melanin. Additionally, linked to the pigmentary system are disorders of pigmentation, resulting in problems ranging from hypopigmentation to hyperpigmentation. This chapter provides an overview of the prominent hyperpigmentary manifestations such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (e.g., that associated with acne), solar lentigo, melasma, and peri-orbital hyperpigmentation and recent advances in cosmetic interventions borne out of strong scientific understanding and consumer clinical studies.
Bayesian Methods and Monte Carlo Simulations
Authors: Loskot Pavel
Published: November 2022

Bayesian methods provide the means for studying probabilistic models of linear as well as non-linear stochastic systems. They allow tracking changes in probability distributions by applying Bayes’s theorem and the chain rule for factoring the probabilities. However, an excessive complexity of resulting distributions often dictates the use of numerical methods when performing statistical and causal inferences over probabilistic models. In this chapter, the Bayesian methods for intractable distributions are first introduced as sampling, filtering, approximation, and likelihood-free methods. Their fundamental principles are explained, and the key challenges are identified. The concise survey of Bayesian methods is followed by outlining their applications. In particular, Bayesian experiment design aims at maximizing information gain or utility, and it is often combined with an optimum model selection. Bayesian hypothesis testing introduces optimality in the data-driven decision making. Bayesian machine learning assumes data labels to be random variables. Bayesian optimization is a powerful strategy for configuring and optimizing large-scale complex systems, for which conventional optimization techniques are usually ineffective. The chapter is concluded by examining Bayesian Monte Carlo simulations. It is proposed that augmented Monte Carlo simulations can achieve explainability and also provide much better information efficiency.
Anaphylaxis in Infants
Authors: Esakova Natalia , Nikolaevich Pampura Alexander , Dustbabaeva Nazifa , Baybekova Venera
Published: November 2022

Anaphylaxis is an extremely dangerous systemic hypersensitivity reaction that develops rapidly and can be fatal. Infants make up the most difficult group of patients with anaphylaxis, given the first episode of reaction occurring at an early age, there are age-related difficulties in interpreting complaints, unpredictability of clinical symptoms, prolonged process of diagnosis, and prescribing the appropriate treatment. These factors determine the risk of fatal outcomes, even in case of nearly healthy infants. For this group of patients, such problems as lack of available diagnostic tests, limited standard doses of epinephrine autoinjectors, the absence of predictors of occurrence, and severity of systemic allergic reactions are still relevant. This chapter presents the available information on the prevalence of anaphylaxis, the most common triggers, diagnosis, clinical symptoms, severity, and treatment in infants.
Seismic Assessment of RC Shear Wall Structure under Real Seismic Sequences Using Equivalent Shell-Wire Model
Authors: Karimzade Soureshjani Omid , Massumi Ali
Published: November 2022

Shear walls are commonly used in areas with moderate to high seismic hazards. They are cost-effective, simple, and significantly reduce the relative displacement. Accurate non-linear assessments of shear wall structures require highly detailed models and finite element (FE) analyses. The inclusion of analyses on the cumulative damage and damage evolution like seismic sequences adds a higher level of complexity to the assessments. Here, an equivalent shell-wire model is used to propose a simple, accurate technique with less computational cost. The areas under the capacity curves were modeled using 3D solid and equivalent shell-wall models and revealed only a 4.48% difference with a 50% difference in computational cost. The hysteresis curves of the experimental and equivalent shell-wire models showed good agreement. To examine the cumulative damage, damage evolution, strength and stiffness degradation of the model, a six-story structure was designed and analyzed under seven mainshocks-aftershocks in both cases of 3D solid and equivalent shell-wire models. The results showed that increasing the plastic strain or damage increased the difference between the results of the models, but this was negligible. Besides the accurate and appropriate results of the equivalent shell-wire model, it required about 39% less computational cost than the 3D solid model.
Creep Failure of 25Cr-35Ni Centrifugally Cast Reformer Tube
Authors: Ravindranath Kanhirodan , Akbar Abdulmuhsen , Al-Wakaa Bader , Abdallah Zak
Published: November 2022

Cast 25Cr-35Ni alloys are extensively being used in the petrochemical and petroleum refining industries for high-temperature applications. A typical application of such alloys in the industry is in the manufacture of cast catalyst reformer tubes for the production of hydrogen. The cast 25Cr-35Ni catalyst reformer tubes possess the required mechanical properties, creep resistance, oxidation resistance, and high-temperature stability. Though reformer tubes are designed to give a service life of over 100,000 hours at temperatures beyond 900°C, there are incidents of failure due to creep damage, which is the predominant failure mechanism in reformer tubes. The paper discusses an investigation conducted on the premature failure of a 25Cr-35Ni reformer tube. The investigation involved microstructural assessments and the evaluation of mechanical properties. The microstructure and mechanical properties of the service-exposed reformer tube were also compared with a new tube. The investigation revealed that the failure of the tube was due to creep embrittlement. The creep embrittlement was due to the microstructural degradations that occurred as a result of overheating. Adherence to the design and operational parameters is critical in mitigating creep embrittlement failures.
Plant Cryopreservation Importance, Approaches and Future Trends
Authors: Acheampong Amankwaah Victor , Naa Ashiokai Prempeh Ruth , Dorcas Quain Marian
Published: November 2022

Plant cryopreservation is useful for long term storage of clonal germplasm and endangered species. Clonally propagated crops which produce recalcitrant seeds cannot be easily conserved using conventional methods. Preservation of plants in vitro is limited to two years and not ideal for germplasm storage for a very long time. The need to conserve plant genetic resources through cryopreservation techniques to mitigate the effects of climate change such as extinction of certain plant species cannot be underestimated. Different cryopreservation methods including dehydration, programmed freezing, vitrification and v cryo-plate are employed in the long-term storage of different plants. These methods are usually based on the principle of the removal of freezable water from tissues by physical or osmotic dehydration followed by ultra-rapid freezing. There have been several advancements in the identification and use of cryoprotective agents, nonetheless, its toxicity remains a challenge. To accelerate plant cryopreservation, there is the need for the development of global expertise. The current practice for the conservation of germplasm in the Biotechnology Laboratory in Ghana is through the use of slow growth media. Moving forward, there is the need to work on developing cryopreservation protocols for preservation of germplasm using liquid nitrogen and cryogenic refrigerators.
Intramedullary Spinal Tumors
Authors: Capo Gabriele , Vandenbulcke Alberto , Yves Barrey Cédric
Published: November 2022

Intramedullary spinal tumors are uncommon intra-axial lesions, which can be either primary or metastatic. Primary tumors arise from cell of spinal cord and account for 2–4% of all intrinsic tumors of the central nervous system, being much less common of brain tumors. They are slow-growing tumors, so symptoms precede diagnosis by an average of 2 years. Metastatic lesions usually originate from lung and breast tumors and are usually diagnosed within 1 month from symptom onset. Pain and weakness are the most common presenting symptoms. Magnetic resonance imaging represents the gold standard technique to study the spinal cord tumors, and first-line treatment is surgical resection, but it is not always curative. In selected situations, watchful waiting can be considered. Chemotherapy and radiation are considered, but controversy exists. Novel treatment options must be developed to supplement partial resection and recurrence.
La Correspondance de Strindberg en français : un pari impossible ?
Authors: Balzamo Elena
Published: November 2022

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Literature as Critique: The Case of William S. Burroughs
Authors: Snedeker George
Published: November 2022

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Sprache ist Spiel! ... auch im Fremdspracherwerb? Über eine lange vernachlässigte Sprachfunktion
Authors: Magnusson Gunnar
Published: November 2022

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UJI AKTIVITAS GRANUL SERBUK IKAN LAUT DENGAN BAHAN TAMBAHAN AMILUM BIJI DURIAN (Durio zibethinus) TERHADAP BAKTERI PATOGEN IKAN
Authors: Susanti Nina Pratiwi , Apriliasanti Wahyuni
Published: November 2022

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui aktivitas antibakteri granul serbuk limbah ikan laut dengan bahan tambahan amilum biji durian (Durio zibethinus) terhadap bakteri patogen ikan. Limbah ikan laut dapat dibuat dalam bentuk granul merupakan tambahan bahan organik baik secara fisik, kimia maupun biologi. Salah satu tanaman yang memiliki manfaat sebagai antibakteri ialah biji durian yang memiliki kandungan pati atau amilum yang cukup tinggi, sehingga berpotensi sebagai alternatif pengganti bahan yang memerlukan sifat-sifat pati yang mengandung senyawa utama yaitu amilosa dan amilopektin, amilosa memiliki sifat mudah menyerap air (Sugiyono, 2011). Selain memiliki kandungan pati, ekstrak biji durian (Durio zibethinus) mengandung senyawa fitokimia seperti alkaloid, flavonoid, saponin, terpenoid, (triterpenoid dan steroid) dan tanin yang memiliki fungsi sebagai anti bakteri (Shinta, 2021).
Penelitian ini menggunakan metode eksperimental yang dilakukan untuk menguji aktivitas antibakteri ialah dengan mengukur zona hambat. Pengujian aktivitas antibakteri dilakukan dengan pengenceran sediaan granul serbuk limbah ikan laut dengan bahan tambahan amilum biji durian (Durio zibethinus) dengan konsentrasi 2%, 4% dan 5%. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan granul serbuk limbah ikan laut  dengan bahan tambahan amilum biji durian (Durio zibethinus) memiliki aktivitas antibakteri terhadap Pseudomonas Aeruginosa dengan adanya zona hambat konsentrasi 2% sebesar 5,3 mm, konsentrasi 4% sebesar 7,1 mm, konsentrasi 5% sebesar 8,8 mm. Konsentrasi Paling efektif untuk menghambat bakteri Pseudomonas Aeruginosa yaitu konsentrasi 5%.
'In primis et ultimis locis... in mediis quoque' (Pontano's 'Actius' 49): The Limits of Alliteration
Authors: Salvador Gimeno Marina
Published: November 2022

En el presente artículo se pretende delimitar la aliteración señalando la posición que el sonido reiterado puede ocupar en la palabra, pues se trata de un tema que actualmente no se ha resuelto con satisfacción a juzgar por la falta de unanimidad en los diccionarios y manuales de retórica consultados. Para ello se ha hecho necesario recurrir al Actius de Pontano, texto en el que aparece por primera vez designada y definida la figura; en concreto, a la expresión in primis et ultimis locis… in mediis quoque (Actius, 49), en tanto que ha dado lugar a una interpretación genérica del fenómeno, haciéndolo extensible a cualquier posición en la palabra (inicial, final o interior, respectivamente). Este trabajo pretende refutar esta interpretación genérica del fragmento y defender con sólidos argumentos una lectura más restrictiva que acote la aliteración al inicio de palabra.
An unwilling separation. A neglected supplement to Callimachus’ Coma Berenices
Authors: Silvano Luigi
Published: November 2022

Line 40 of Callimachus’ Coma Berenices (fr. 110 Pfeiffer = 110 Harder = 213 Massimilla) has been transmitted with an initial lacuna. This article aims to defend a supplement proposed by Lenchantin and discarded by all subsequent editors.

Este articulo trata sobre una laguna al principio de la línea 40 del frg. 110 Pfeiffer (= 110 Harder [2012] = 213 Massimilla [2010]) de Calímaco, conocido como El rizo de Berenice. El autor tiene como objetivo de defender una integración propuesta por Lenchantin de Gubernatis y descartada por otros editores posteriores.
Manuele File (cap. III, carme 26 Miller): esegesi di un'aggressione scoptica colta
Authors: Carrozza Marco
Published: November 2022

Il presente articolo si propone di esaminare gli snodi contenutistici e strutturali di un carme scoptico bizantino composto da Manuele File (cap. III, carme 26 Miller). L’analisi si concentrerà in modo particolare sui modi e le forme di un’invettiva ricca di riferimenti impliciti e di sovrapposizioni polisemiche, nel tentativo di cogliere le direttrici di una degradazione dell’avversario che risente spesso della cultura cristiana coeva.
Diàlegs entre l'art i la natura: La reflexió estètica com a context
Authors: De la Calle Romà
Published: November 2022

Les relacions entre l’estètica natural i l’estètica artística no han estat sempre fàcils. Com tampoc les correlacions entre art i natura han estat independents del filtre contextualitzador de la història cultural humana i dels corresponents desenvolupaments científics. L’aproximació al tema exigeix l’estudi d’una transició entre els drets de l’àmbit natural i la seva imparable conversió diacrònica en natura-producte. La reflexió al voltant d’una sèrie de dicotomies resultarà, doncs, fonamental en aquest cas: objecte estètic i objecte natural; representació i expressió; la natura com realitat disponible i la natura com realitat donada; l’àmbit natural i l’àmbit artificial. Des d’aquestes frontisses conceptuals i funcionals potser es puguin entendre millor els diferents moments històrics que han articulat els diàlegs entre art i natura.
Sex and design in our evolutionary cousins: The perception of beauty in nature
Authors: Mendelson Tamra C. , Ryan Michael J.
Published: November 2022

Taking an evolutionary approach to the question of beauty, we discuss the expression and perception of sexual beauty across the animal kingdom. Animals experience beauty in their brains, and animal brains are tuned to features of the environment most relevant to their survival. Over evolutionary time, sexually reproducing animals have exploited that tuning to maximize their attractiveness to the opposite sex, often leading to extreme courtship traits and behaviors. These are the traits of sexual beauty. Combining modern principles of neuroscience and neuroaesthetics with established principles of evolutionary biology, we aim to understand the biological basis and evolution of beauty in all animals, including ourselves.
Optimization strategies for energy storage properties of polyvinylidene fluoride composites
Authors: Zha Jun-Wei , Zha Lei-Jun , Zheng Ming-Sheng ,   School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China,   Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Materials Genome Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
Published: November 2022

Dielectric capacitors have been widely used in crucial energy storage systems of electronic power systems because of their advantages such as fast charge discharge rates, long cycle lifetimes, low losses, and flexible and convenient processingc. However, the dielectric capacitors have lower energy storage densities than electrochemical energy storage devices, which makes them difficult to meet higher application requirements for electrical engineering at the present stage. Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) based polymers show great potential in achieving improved energy storage properties, which is attributed to their high dielectric constants and high breakdown strengths. This work systematically reviews PVDF-based nanocomposites for energy storage applications. Dielectric constant, breakdown strength and charge discharge efficiency are three main parameters related to energy storage properties, which are proposed to discuss their mechanisms of action and optimization strategies. Finally, the key scientific problems of PVDF-based high energy storage composites are summarized and considered, and the future development trend of dielectric capacitors is also prospected.
A faster way to model neuronal circuitry
Authors: Davison Andrew P , Appukuttan Shailesh
Published: November 2022

Artificial neural networks could pave the way for efficiently simulating large-scale models of neuronal networks in the nervous system.
A survey of field programmable gate array (FPGA)-based graph convolutional neural network accelerators: challenges and opportunities
Authors: Li Shun , Tao Yuxuan , Tang Enhao , Xie Ting , Chen Ruiqi
Published: November 2022

Graph convolutional networks (GCNs) based on convolutional operations have been developed recently to extract high-level representations from graph data. They have shown advantages in many critical applications, such as recommendation system, natural language processing, and prediction of chemical reactivity. The problem for the GCN is that its target applications generally pose stringent constraints on latency and energy efficiency. Several studies have demonstrated that field programmable gate array (FPGA)-based GCNs accelerators, which balance high performance and low power consumption, can continue to achieve orders-of-magnitude improvements in the inference of GCNs models. However, there still are many challenges in customizing FPGA-based accelerators for GCNs. It is necessary to sort out the current solutions to these challenges for further research. For this purpose, we first summarize the four challenges in FPGA-based GCNs accelerators. Then we introduce the process of the typical GNN algorithm and several examples of representative GCNs. Next, we review the FPGA-based GCNs accelerators in recent years and introduce their design details according to different challenges. Moreover, we compare the key metrics of these accelerators, including resource utilization, performance, and power consumption. Finally, we anticipate the future challenges and directions for FPGA-based GCNs accelerators: algorithm and hardware co-design, efficient task scheduling, higher generality, and faster development.
Mylohyoid Bridging of the Mandible and its Clinical Importance in Dry Mandibles: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Samanta Prajna Paramita , Priya Abhilasha
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Mylohyoid Bridging (MB) is a hyperostotic variation in the mandible. On the inner aspect of the ramus of the mandible, the Mylohyoid Groove (MG) is observed. The content of this groove is the mylohyoid nerve and vessels. The mylohyoid bridging can compress these neurovascular structures. Aim: To determine the incidence of mylohyoid bridging and to determine, whether it is complete/incomplete or proximal/distal or unilateral/bilateral. Materials and Methods: The present cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Anatomy, School of Medical Sciences and Research, Sharda University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India, in July 2022. The study was conducted on 60 dried human mandibles (120 sides). The mandibles were collected from the Department of Anatomy. The mandibles were observed for the presence of a mylohyoid bridge on the inner aspect of its ramus on both sides. Results were expressed using descriptive statistics and were expressed in terms of frequency and percentage. Results: Mylohyoid bridge was observed in three out of 120 (2.5%) mylohyoid grooves. All the observed mylohyoid bridges were incomplete types (one each of proximal type, intermediate type, and distal type). In one of the mandible, a triangular bony spicule was noted at the proximal end of the mylohyoid groove, in a close approximation of the mandibular foramen on the right-side, whereas in one of the mandible, the mylohyoid groove was very deep, and communication between the mylohyoid groove and mandibular canal was noted. Conclusion: Knowledge regarding mylohyoid bridging will help in the successful administration of inferior alveolar nerve block.
Diagnostic Accuracy of Computed Tomography by Fungal Sinusitis: A Case-control Study
Authors: Anand AM , George Rintu , Padmanaban Elamparidhi , Amirthalingam Umamageshwari
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Recent decades show a considerable increase in fungal infections, hence can lead to fungal sinusitis. Immunosuppression, post organ transplant, diabetes mellitus, and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection have led to a rise in the incidence of fungal infections. Recent advances in nasal endoscopy, Computed Tomography (CT), and Histopathological Examination (HPE) Techniques have led to better detection of fungal aetiology. Aim: To determine the most significant CT findings in fungal sinusitis or combination of findings in comparison to HPE. Materials and Methods: This retrospective case-control study was done at Sri Manakula Vinayagar Medical College and Hospital, Puducherry from January 2017 to December 2020. Total number of patients were 90. Total 50 cases of fungal sinusitis confirmed with histopathological confirmation and available non contrast CT Paranasal Sinus (PNS) images where time interval between CT and Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) not exceeding ten days were included. The control group had 40 patients with chronic sinusitis with HPE negative results. CT PNS were performed on PHILIPS 16 slice scanner without contrast administration. Data was entered into Microsoft excel and analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 22.0 version software. Results: Mean age of the cases (fungal sinusitis) were 46.7±17 years and 39±13.1 years of controls. Of the total 90 subjects, heterogeneous mucosal thickening was seen in 41 (45.6%), intrasinus hyperattenuation in 36 (40%), bone sclerosis in 44 (48.9%), bone erosion in 36 (40%), sinus expansion in 23 (25.6%) subjects. Fungal sinusitis patients had more proportion of these findings when compared to control group and hence p-value was significant. Conclusion: The CT diagnostic features of the fungal sinusitis are heterogeneous mucosal thickening, intrasinus hyperattenuation, bone sclerosis, bone erosion and sinus expansion which were significant. These findings help to differentiate fungal sinusitis from non fungal sinusitis.
Tubular Adenoma of the Right Breast- A Case Report
Authors: Thavamurugan Kabilan , Sangeetha BS , Ramalingam Natarajan
Published: November 2022

Tubular adenomas of the breast belong to the category of fibroepithelial tumours of the breast, and it is composed of compact bilayer tubules with a sparse intervening stroma. It is usually circumscribed (may be nodular) benign tumour of the breast.Tubular adenomas are very rare benign tumours of the breast which mimic the clinical and radiological presentation of fibroadenomas. It usually presents as, a well-circumscribed, palpable painless mass. Surgical excision of this tumour is the main stay treatment. This report documents, a rare presentation of tubular adenoma in a 17-year-old girl who presented with a swelling in the right breast with pain, nipple discharge and nipple inversion. Breast ultrasound revealed, a large well-circumscribed heteroechoic lesion (8.5*3.8cm) within the right breast, giving breast within breast appearance and reported as Breast Imaging Reporting and Diagnostic Scoring system BIRADS III. Patient was provisionally diagnosed as giant fibroadenoma and was planned for excisional biopsy. Histopathological examination confirmed it to be tubular adenoma. The patient had an excellent postoperative recovery.
Az agrár-kockázatkezelési rendszer működésének értékelése 2016
Authors: Keményné Horváth Zsuzsanna , Péter Krisztina , Zubor-Nemes Anna , Kiss Andrea , Lőrincz Katalin , Kóti Adrienn
Published: November 2022

A kiadvány a Mezőgazdasági Kockázatkezelési Rendszer (MKR) működését és eredményeit mutatja be a 2016. évre vonatkozóan. Az MKR I. pillérében (azaz az agrárkárenyhítésben) az elmúlt időszakban végrehajtott jogszabályi változásoknak köszönhetően 2016- ban nőtt a részt vevő termelők száma és a befizetett kárenyhítési hozzájárulás. Az említett év időjárásában az előző évvel ellentétben az aszály nem volt számottevő, a tavaszi fagy és a jégeső azonban súlyos károkat okozott. Így összességében a károsodott területek és a kárenyhítő juttatásként kifizetett összegek 2016- ban jelentős mértékben csökkentek az előző évhez képest. Kárenyhítő juttatásban elsősorban a közepes és kis méretű gyümölcstermelő üzemek részesültek. A II. pillérben, azaz a díjtámogatott biztosításoknál ugrásszerűen megemelkedett a biztosítást kötő termelők száma, és azzal együtt a díjállomány, valamint a kártérítés is. Mindhárom kategóriában több mint 30 százalékkal növekedtek a díjak. A biztosítások területi lefedettsége minden növénykultúránál javult. A kárkifizetések és kárhányadok jelentősen emelkedtek, elsősorban a jégverés, a tavaszi fagy és a viharok sújtotta szántóföldi növénykultúrák és ültetvények esetében. A mezőgazdasági biztosítási díjtámogatás 2016- tól a Vidékfejlesztési Program (VP) keretében került meghirdetésre, így a biztosítási díjtámogatás éves forrása az előző évi 3 milliárd forintról 4 milliárd forintra emelkedett. A támogatási igény ismét meghaladta a rendelkezésre álló forrásokat, ezért az elmúlt két évhez hasonlóan a 2016. évi biztosítási díjtámogatás esetén is visszaosztás vált szükségessé.
Attitude and Achievement of Pupils in Sta. Marcela Central School towards Math Modules
Authors: Morales Gem Micah S.
Published: November 2022

The study was conducted on the intermediate pupils of sta. Marcela central school mainly grades 4,5, and 6 pupils. It determined the respondents' profile in terms of age, sex, educational attainment of parents, occupation of parents. Moreover, it determined the significant difference in pupils' achievement and attitudes when grouped according to profile.

The data collected from the respondents were tabulated, analyzed, and interpreted. Frequency counts, mean, and percentages were used to determine the pupils' profile. The t-test and the f-test were used to test whether or not there are a significant difference in pupils' attitudes and achievements towards math manipulative when grouped according to profile variables. Pupil's attitude towards manipulatives in teaching mathematics was determined using the weighted mean, and the result was described using the four-point likert scale.

The data analysis and interpretation yielded the results that the respondents' attitudes towards math modules have an overall mean of 3.36 which means that it is highly favorable on the effect of modules on pupils' attitude. The findings showed that attitudes of the pupils towards pupils' attitudes according to their profile variables, especially on mothers' educational attainment. This is explained by the computed anova of 3.09801 higher than the critical value of 2.70359 and the probability value of 0.03063, which is significant at a 0.05 level of significance. No difference exists in the pupils' attitudes when grouped according to sex, grade level, fathers' highest educational attainment, and parents' occupation.
Utilization Pattern of Weather Based Agro-advisory Services among the Farmers of Nellore District of Andhra Pradesh
Authors: Mallikarjun M. , Nagarjuna D. , Sadu Hari , Jyothi G. L. Siva , Sumathi V.
Published: November 2022

The success or failure of agricultural production is determined mainly by weather as it effect on every phase of crop growth, development and yield. Weather abnormalities during the crop season, would affect the crop growth and finally the quality and quantity of the yield. The advent of forecasting technologies and decision-making skills have not yet spread among small and marginal farmers who constitute major part of farming community in the country. Now a step further the Indian Council of agricultural Research (ICAR) and India Meteorological Department (IMD jointly planned to provide Agrometeorological Advisory Services (AAS) at block level in every district in both English and local language across the country for the benefit of farming community by setting up of District Agro-Meteorological Units (DAMUs) in the premises of KVKs to provide AAS to farmers. To understand the utilization pattern of the mobile AAS offered by the DAMU by the Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Nellore, Andhra Pradesh a survey was conducted. Sample size of 150 respondents was selected by employing proportionate random sampling method. The survey was carried out in terms of dimensions viz., technology adoption, information processing behaviour, information storage behaviour and information sharing behaviour. Results of the survey showed that nearly two-third of the respondents adopted Pest management practices and harvesting time information disseminated through agromet advisory system. Medium level of information processing behaviour was seen among the 66% of respondents, 48% of the respondents have medium information storage behaviour and around three-fourth (74%) of the respondents have medium level of information sharing behaviour.
Cryptococcus laurentii Fungaemia in a Neonate from Nigeria: A Case Report
Authors: Ekeng Bassey E. , Adams Emmanuel B. , Udoh Ubong A. , Ita Okokon Ita , Okorafor Linda N. , Monjol Bernard E. , Oteikwu Ochigbo S. , Ikpeme Offiong E. , Oladele Rita O.
Published: November 2022

Aim: Increasing cases of Cryptococcus laurentii infection are being reported globally possibly due to advances in medicine, the use of immunosuppressants and invasive therapies such as endotracheal intubation, parenteral nutrition, central vascular catheters and exposure to broad-spectrum antimicrobial agents. Cryptococcus species are ubiquitously distributed in the environment, abundant in contaminated soil and bird droppings. Four cases of Cryptococcus laurentii fungemia have been described in neonates, all were premature low/very low-birth-weight. Our case is likely the 5th reported globally and the 1st from Nigeria and Africa across all age groups.

Case Presentation: The patient presented at 34 hours of life with complaints of fever and multiple convulsions after delivery in a traditional birth attendant facility. Mother drained liquor for 5 days with poor cord care. A diagnosis of severe birth asphyxia with sepsis was made and baby received antibiotics (ceftriaxone and genticin) in addition to the management of severe birth asphyxia but showed no improvement. Blood culture yielded cream-colored smooth colonies, identified by Vitek 2 (bioMerieux, France) as Cryptococcus laurentii. Baby was treated with fluconazole, had good recovery and was discharged home.

Conclusion: Our case report emphasizes the need for high index of suspicion for non-bacterial organisms (fungi) as possible causes of sepsis in newborns. Improved fungal diagnosis and timely commencement of antifungal medications will improve clinical outcomes.
Effect of Cash Conversion Cycle on Firm Performance of Quoted Manufacturing Firms in Nigeria
Authors: Patricia Chude, Nkiru , Izuchukwu Chude, Daniel
Published: November 2022

This study examines the effect of the cash conversion cycle (CCC) on the firm performance of quoted manufacturing firms in Nigeria. The study adopted the ex-post facto research design. The sample comprised twenty-one quoted manufacturing companies on the Nigerian Stock Exchange selected using the purposive sampling technique. The study relied on secondary data which was analysed using multiple regression techniques. The results showed that CCC had a negative non-significant effect on return on assets (ROA) and return on equity (ROE). Additionally, Generalised Least Squares were used to test for individual components of the CCC effect on ROA and ROE. The study recommends that managers pay crucial attention to the working capital components and the utilisation of technological breakthroughs, such as the Advanced Manufacturing Techniques as it affects the value of the firm.
Performance and Resource Requirements of In-Person, Voice Call, and Automated Telephone-Based Socioeconomic Data Collection Modalities for Community-Based Health Programs
Authors: Allen Luke N. , Mackinnon Shona , Gordon Iris , Blane David , Marques Ana Patricia , Gichuhi Stephen , Mwangi Alice , Burton Matthew J. , Bolster Nigel , Macleod David , Kim Min , Ramke Jacqueline , Bastawrous Andrew
Published: November 2022

Importance

Gathering data on socioeconomic status (SES) is a prerequisite for health programs that aim to improve equity. There is a lack of evidence on which approaches offer the best combination of reliability, cost, and acceptability.

Objective

To compare the performance of different approaches to gathering data on SES in community health programs.

Data Sources

A search of the Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, Embase, Global Health, ClinicalTrials.gov, the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, and OpenGrey from 1999 to June 29, 2021, was conducted, with no language limits. Google Scholar was also searched and the reference lists of included articles were checked to identify further studies. The search was performed on June 29, 2021.

Study Selection

Any empirical study design was eligible if it compared 2 or more modalities to elicit SES data from the following 3 categories: in-person, voice call, or automated telephone-based systems.

Data Extraction and Synthesis

Two reviewers independently screened titles, abstracts, and full-text articles and extracted data. They also assessed the risk of bias using Cochrane tools and assessed the certainty of the evidence using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach. Findings were synthesized thematically without meta-analysis.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Response rate, equivalence, time, costs, and acceptability to patients and health care professionals.

Results

The searches returned 3943 records. The 11 included studies reported data on 14 036 individuals from 7 countries, collecting data on 11 socioeconomic domains using 2 or more of the following modes: in-person surveys, computer-assisted telephone interviews (CATIs), and 2 types of automated data collection: interactive voice response calls (IVRs) and web surveys. Response rates were greater than 80% for all modes except IVRs. Equivalence was high across all modes (Cohen κ > 0.5). There were insufficient data to make robust time and cost comparisons. Patients reported high levels of acceptability providing data via IVRs, web surveys, and CATIs.

Conclusions and Relevance

Selecting an appropriate and cost-effective modality to elicit SES data is an important first step toward advancing equitable effective service coverage. This systematic review did not identify evidence that remote and automated data collection modes differed from human-led and in-person approaches in terms of reliability, cost, or acceptability.
Abandoning the Proteinopathy Paradigm in Parkinson Disease
Authors: Espay Alberto J. , Okun Michael S.
Published: November 2022

This Viewpoint makes a case for changing the approach in Parkinson disease research efforts from one of proteinopathy (accrual of amyloids) to proteinopenia (depletion of normal proteins).