bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Histomorphological Profile of Liver and Kidney Tissues of Albino Wistar Rats Following Exposure to Cadmium-Induced Damage and Ascorbic Acid Supplementation
Authors: Uche C. Okwuonu  , Dayo R. Omotoso  , Emmanuel O. Bienonwu  , Osahenrhumwen Adagbonyin  , Joseph Dappa
Published: October 2020

Introduction: Cadmium is a common heavy metal toxicant that can cause diverse tissue toxicities and pathologies. Conversely, ascorbic acid is a natural anti-oxidant that can ameliorate cytotoxic effects of tissue toxicants.  In this study, the objective was to assess the histomorphological profile of liver and kidney tissues of albino Wistar rats after exposure to cadmium-induced damage and ascorbic acid supplementation. Subjects and Methods: 24 animals were divided into four groups (1-4) comprising of six animals each (n=6). Normal control group 1 was given distilled water, test control group 2 given 5 mg/kg Cadmium chloride and test groups 3 and 4 given 5 mg/kg Cadmium chloride + 100 mg/kg ascorbic acid and 5 mg/kg + 200 mg/kg ascorbic acid respectively. The route of the 21 days administration was oral. Thereafter, the liver and kidney of experimental animals were harvested, weighed and processed.  Results: Only the test control group 2 showed significant (p < 0.05) reduction in mean organ weight compared to normal control group 1.  Similarly, only the test control group 2 animals showed significant alterations in the liver and kidney histomorphological profile compared to normal control group 1. Conclusion: The ascorbic acid exhibited prominent ameliorative effect against damaging effect of cadmium exposure leading to relative reparation of liver and kidney histomorphology in albino Wistar rats.
Variant Anatomy of Hypoglossal Canal: An Osteological Study in North Indian Population
Authors: Yadav S  , Pandey P  , Pasricha N  , Bhatnagar R
Published: October 2020

Introduction: To assess the presence of duplicated hypoglossal canal. Subjects and Methods: A total of 80 dried human skulls were collected from the Anthropology lab of the department of Anatomy K.G.M.U.,U. P., Lucknow, India. The skulls were examined for duplicated hypoglossal canal and presence of posterior condylar canal. Theskulls were closely inspected with the use of hand lens. Results: We observed bilateral duplicated hypoglossal canal in 3 skulls (3.75%), Unilateral duplication was seen in 15 skulls (18.75%) [i.e.7 on the right side and 8 on the left side]. We observed that the presence of duplicated hypoglossal canal was mostly associated with the presence of posterior condylar canal. Conclusion: Duplicated hypoglossal canal in humans may result in minor degrees of alterations in the movements of the tongue due to entrapment of nerve during ossification. The clinical relevance of this knowledge is important for radiologists and neurosurgeons.
Hierarchical Image Object Search Based on Deep Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Zhang Wei , Yao Hongge , Tan Yuxing
Published: October 2020

Object detection technology occupies a pivotal position in the field of modern computer vision research, its purpose is to accurately locate the object human beings are looking for in the image and classify the object. With the development of deep learning technology, convolutional neural networks are widely used because of their outstanding performance in feature extraction, which greatly improves the speed and accuracy of object detection. In recent years, reinforcement learning technology has emerged in the field of artificial intelligence, showing excellent decision-making ability to deal with problems. In order to combine the perception ability of deep learning technology with the decision-making ability of reinforcement learning technology, this paper incorporate reinforcement learning into the convolutional neural network, and propose a hierarchical deep reinforcement learning object detection model.
Recent Advances in On-Water Multicomponent Synthesis of Coumarin Derivatives
Authors: Chandrakar Komal , Patel Jeevan Lal , Mahapatra S. P. , Penta Santhosh
Published: October 2020

Coumarin-linked heterocycles represent privileged structural subunits and are welldistributed
in naturally occurring compounds with immense biological activities. Multicomponent
reactions (MCRs) are becoming a valuable tool for synthesizing structurally diverse
molecular entities. On the other hand, the last year has seen a tremendous outburst in modifying
chemical processes to make them sustainable for the betterment of our environment. The
application of aqueous medium in organic synthesis is fulfilling some of the goals of ‘green
and sustainable chemistry’ as it has some advantages over the traditional synthetic methods in
terms of reaction rates, yields, purity of the products, product selectivity, etc. Hence, significant
progress has been made in recent years. In the present review, we provide an overview of
the recent developments of multicomponent synthesis of biologically relevant coumarin
linked and fused heterocyclic compounds carried out from 2015 till today in an aqueous medium.
Neonatal Occupational Therapy in Australia: A Survey and Recommendations for Developing Guidelines for Clinical Practice
Authors: McPharlin Nancy , Stewart Hugh , Gibbs Deanna , Bowen-Salter Holly , Boshoff Kobie
Published: October 2020

Aim and Background: Occupational Therapists form an essential part of the development and care of infants and families in Neonatal Units (NNU) across the world, however, little is documented about their practice in Australia. This article aims to develop a greater understanding of the role of Occupational Therapy in NNU in Australia, compared with international practice guidelines, and recommends the adoption of UK guidelines until Australia specific guidelines emerge. Method: An online questionnaire was developed from a systematic scoping review and piloted by an expert panel. Invitations were sent to thirty Occupational Therapists working in NNUs around Australia. Data analysis included using descriptive statistics and qualitative themes. Results: Twenty two (73%) of NNU Occupational Therapists responded to the survey, representing all levels of NNU. Results describe the current Occupational Therapy role in Australia as encompassing assessment, intervention, teamwork and a variety of ‘other’ activities, all of which required advanced knowledge, skills and paediatric experience, and involved ongoing high-level professional development. Occupational Therapy has a unique role to play in neonatal units. Future development of the role is reliant upon good advocacy and promotion, specialised training opportunities, prospects for networking, support and mentorship for the many Therapists working part-time, and ongoing research. The Australian Occupational Therapy NNU role compares similarly with those cited internationally (UK & US). The development of guidelines for evidence based clinical practice of neonatal Occupational Therapy in Australia was highly sought by clinicians. The adoption of the ‘Occupational Therapy in neonatal services and early intervention: practice guideline’ (RCOT 2017) is proposed until the emergence of specific Australian guidelines.
A Scoping Review of Relationship-based Training Programs for Early Childhood Educators.
Authors: Monaco Jake , Kernot Jocelyn , Seyfang Mandy , Gerangue Joanna , Bowen-Salter Holly , Boshoff Kobie
Published: October 2020

Aim and Background: An increasing rise in childcare attendance has resulted in children spending additional time with non-parental caregivers, such as Early Childhood Educators (ECE’s). Strong relationships between children and ECE’s are important as these relationships impact on children’s development. Relationship-based training programs offered by occupational therapists, are one way of supporting educators with building and maintaining positive relationships with children in their care. This scoping review aimed to provide a summary of the features and outcomes of relationship-based training with ECE’s. Methods: After a systematic search and following PRISMA guidelines, a total of 26 studies were included. Results: A wide range of relationship-based training programs were described, with multiple components and group-based training, as well as individual consultation/coaching reported. All included studies reported that relationship-based training programs resulted in positive outcomes for children and/or educators. This review provides a foundation for designing relationship-based training programs for ECE’s.
Sella Turcica Morphology in Patients With Genetic Syndromes: Protocol for a Systematic Review
Authors: Roomaney Imaan Amina , Chetty Manogari
Published: October 2020

Background

The sella turcica is an important anatomical reference used in orthodontics and the evaluation of craniofacial growth. Studies have found an association between variations in sella turcica morphology in patients with certain syndromes affecting the craniofacial complex. It is hypothesized that each related syndrome or pathological condition is associated with a specific pattern of malformation of the sella turcica.

Objective

This study outlines the protocol for a systematic review that aims to determine if genetic syndromes involving the craniofacial complex are associated with abnormal radiographic sella turcica morphology and if there is a pattern of malformation that is consistent with each syndrome.

Methods

An electronic database search was conducted using a planned search strategy to identify relevant studies. We included primary studies evaluating the morphology of the sella turcica based on imaging from a lateral view. Specifically, only studies with postnatal human participants with genetic syndromes involving the craniofacial complex were included in this review. We placed no restrictions on the language or time frame of these studies.
Based on the search findings, studies were further screened for relevance and eligibility by two independent reviewers. Data were extracted from the selected studies. We assessed the selected studies for risk of bias and quality by using risk of bias tools from the Joanna Briggs Institute. We will provide a narrative synthesis of our findings and a structured summary based on prespecified themes.

Results

The protocol is registered with PROSPERO (#CRD42019148060) and approved by the University of Western Cape Biomedical Science Research Ethics Committee (BM205/3). The literature search was conducted in September 2019 and updated in July 2020. The study was completed in August 2020, and the findings will be published in an open-access journal.

Conclusions

The results of this systematic review are expected to provide a comprehensive list of morphological variations of the sella turcica, which will aid in the identification of syndromes associated with the craniofacial complex. We also expect to identify patterns of sella turcica morphology that highlight genotype-phenotype correlations, thus adding to the body of evidence relating to genetics and craniofacial malformations.

Trial Registration

PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews CRD42019148060; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=148060

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

RR1-10.2196/16633
Mobile Phone Craving And Problem Use In The Spanish Population: Analysis Of An Internet-Based Survey (Preprint)
Authors: De-Sola Jose , Rubio Gabriel , Talledo Hernan , Jaudenes Carmen , DÁgostino Andrea , Rodriguez De Fonseca Fernando
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND

Problem phone use is a growing concern in most societies, being associated to social and health problems in a similar way to other behavioral addictions. However, both, its prevalence and its nature as a behavioral disorder are not well described nor understood. More over it is not universally recognized yet as a clinical entity that deserves health-oriented interventions.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, both, an evaluation of cell phone craving and problematic cell phone use among the Spanish population was carried out. Our initial hypothesis is that both problematic cell phone use and cravings have increased in the last 5 years.

METHODS

Methods We used our adaptation of the original Mobile Phone Problematic Use Scale (MPPUS) as well as the Mobile Phone Addiction Craving Scale (MPACS) A total of 1,612 online interviews were conducted in 17 autonomous communities in the Spanish territory, with a global and specific analysis by gender, age, profession, education level and population center size.

RESULTS

The results indicate that the prevalence of problematic cell phone use in Spain is currently 4.8%, with 14.8% of users who abuse and are at risk of dependence and lack of control. In total, 19.6% of the population currently has mobile device use issues. These results do not differ significantly from those obtained in our previous investigation; in contrast, the level of craving increased significant. Both in the prevalence of problematic cell phone use and in craving, the highest incidence is observed for people between 16 and 35 years old, students, and users without education or basic education and in urban centers. There are no differences between genders.

CONCLUSIONS

Therefore, the present study confirms that prevalence of problem phone use remained high in the Spanish Population, despite the rising concerns around its unhealthy consequences. In addition, we confirmed an increase in cell phone craving scores, indicating that technological dependence and need is increasing every day.

CLINICALTRIAL

The present study is not an intervention study so no Trial Registration was requested
An Intervention to Improve Medication Adherence in People With Heart Disease (Text4HeartII): Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Maddison Ralph , Jiang Yannan , Stewart Ralph , Scott Tony , Kerr Andrew , Whittaker Robyn , Benatar Jocelyn , Rolleston Anna , Estabrooks Paul , Dale Leila
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND

Mobile health technologies have the potential to improve the reach and delivery of interventions for promoting long-term secondary prevention of coronary heart disease.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to determine the effectiveness of an SMS text messaging intervention (Text4HeartII) for improving adherence to medication and lifestyle changes over and above usual care in people with coronary heart disease at 24 and 52 weeks.

METHODS

A two-arm, parallel, randomized controlled trial was conducted in New Zealand. Participants with a recent acute coronary syndrome were randomized to receive usual cardiac services alone (control, n=153) or a 24-week SMS text message program for supporting self-management plus usual cardiac services (n=153). The primary outcome was adherence to medication at 24 weeks, defined as a medication possession ratio of 80% or more for aspirin, statin, and antihypertensive therapy. Secondary outcomes included medication possession ratio at 52 weeks, self-reported medication adherence, adherence to healthy lifestyle behaviors, and health-related quality of life at 24 and 52 weeks.

RESULTS

Participants were predominantly male (113/306, 80.3%) and European New Zealanders (210/306, 68.6%), with a mean age of 61 years (SD 11 years). Groups were comparable at baseline. National hospitalization and pharmacy dispensing records
were available for all participants; 92% (282/306, 92.1%) of participants completed a 24-week questionnaire and 95.1% (291/306) of participants completed a 52-week questionnaire. Adherence with 3 medication classes were lower in the intervention group than in the control group (87/153, 56.8% vs 105/153, 68.6%, odds ratio 0.60, 95% CI 0.38-0.96; P=.03) and 52 weeks (104/153, 67.9% vs 83/153, 54.2%; odds ratio 0.56, 95% CI 0.35-0.89; P=.01). Self-reported medication adherence scores showed the same trend at 52 weeks (mean difference 0.3; 95% CI 0.01-0.59; P=.04). Moreover, self-reported adherence to health-related behaviors was similar between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Text4HeartII did not improve dispensed medication or adherence to a favorable lifestyle over and above usual care. This finding contrasts with previous studies and highlights that the benefits of text interventions may depend on the context in which they are used.

CLINICALTRIAL

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12616000422426; http://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=370398.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

RR2-10.1186/s13063-018-2468-z
Transformation of Urban Black America into a Free Enterprise System
Authors: Kirkland Jack A.
Published: October 2020

This article presents personal reflections on a vision to move the Blacks in America from a state of despair to one of prosperity. It is a bold attempt to present the experience of 50 years of activism, teaching, and writing on the subject. I have a clear vision of how the community, local government, and the university can join forces in a social and economic development project that would help poor Blacks form and own “tenant Organizations” and make them “Stockholders,” through carefully planned and executed cooperation. It is a real game changer in the lives of the American Blacks since the days of Black Wall Street.
BODY FRAGMENTED - temporal expressions
Authors: Linnea Bågander
Published: October 2020

In response to digital technology, new methods, thinking and aesthetics have emerged that challenge the way we design. In particular, the extraction of movement introduced by motion-capture technology propose a design process wherein the motion rather than the form is used as a material in a design process. In such a process the motion is extracted form a defined set of points that creates a digital representation. In this exposition, the strategies utilized when capturing a motion is translated into the process of garment making with the purpose to challenge bodily aesthetics through dress. 
 Practically, this exposition builds on two independent studies with the shared aim to define parameters for transformations of the moving body’s expression applied to a garment making process. Yet, the transformation is approached from two perspectives; the first study is non-material and borrows theory and references from the field of dance and motion capturing technology. It maps the body as a point-based system based on the body as a moving form and pin-points body functions that affect these points. This part serves as a foundation for the second study that adds material aspects, in particular, it maps material parameters that relate to how the material is arranged in relation to these points. 
 
In conclusion, strategies of extraction of movement as attachments and the scale of fragmentation of materials are considered the main contribution to the garment making process. As it proposes a new usage of movement, the work has implications for fashion design, costume design but also other body movement-based mediums as it is about the expression of body movement and not just the body as a form.
Hverdagsfortellinger som setter spor – Studenters fortellinger fra og refleksjoner over hverdagslivet i barnehagen
Authors: Eilifsen Margareth
Published: October 2020

We understand our lives through narratives, and the form of the narratives is appropriate for understanding the actions of others, says MacIntyre. Meanwhile, narratives and understanding of narratives also apply to understanding our self and our own actions. Through stories from the field of practice in the study program for kindergarten teachers, students describe serious and important stories from an everyday life with children. These stories have had an impact on student’s development in becoming teachers. Through reflective work with life stories from teaching students, various perspectives on life management from children aged 2–8 years are outlined. The stories are told through the students’ voices, and they are reflected over in hindsight with the subject teachers from the program. The article deals with the students’ ways of telling stories and reflecting on them retrospectively. Phenomenological hermeneutic method lay as a basis for analysis of stories as Lived Experience Descriptions (LED) in this article (van Manen). The main result is the importance of listening to and reflecting on narratives in order to understand and alter actions and become a reflective kindergarten teacher.
Bærekraftig livstolkning – KRLE-faget som brobygger mellom religionenes og ungdommenes klimaengasjement
Authors: Tomren Tom Sverre
Published: October 2020

In this chapter, the authors focus on textbooks’ portrayal of religions and worldviews and their thinking and practice regarding environmental, climate and sustainability issues. Tomren shows how religious institutions work with environmental problems and climate change and analyzes how textbooks designed for religious education in the Norwegian school system address this commitment. His method thus falls under what is referred to as ideological textbook analysis. None of the analyzed books contain texts that explain how various religious institutions are involved in environmental work. The analysis also shows that textbooks for religious education do not place much priority on environment and climate ethics. Another finding is that environmental ethics is detached from the general descriptions of world religions in these books. Tomren argues that the new curricula for Norwegian schools (which will be introduced in 2020–2021), with an emphasis on sustainability education and existence-oriented instruction, requires an upgrade of material that shows how climate and environmental commitment is rooted in reflection and practice in world religions today. Tomren suggests that by taking these steps, the school system can provide a more truthful presentation of religion than they do in existing textbooks and that this can contribute to improved and more relevant environmental education.
On ou Off, Real ou Virtual? Como o Facebook influencia na qualidade de interações e relações sociais?
Authors: De Andrade Norberto Almeida , Rainatto Giuliano Carlo
Published: October 2020

As mídias sociais na internet tem um papel expressivo na vida das pessoas na era da transformação digital seja no compartilhamento de conteúdo, diversão e interações sociais. Ao mesmo tempo a dependência em casos extremos chega a gerar transtornos comportamentais como a nomofobia que é o medo irracional de ficar sem o smartphone ou ficar sem a possibilidade de usar o telefone por algum motivo, seja pela ausência de um sinal, carga da bateria ou o término do pacote de dados. Este estudo investigou determinantes para o uso (não) do Facebook e efeitos relacionados à vida social, utilizando um modelo conceitual com múltiplos construtos e variáveis. A pergunta norteadora da pesquisa é: “Como as vidas sociais das pessoas são afetadas por sua escolha de se tornar (não) usuário (do Facebook)?”.  Os principais construtos do estudo quantitativo foram determinantes socioeconômicos e socioculturais, traços de personalidade, fatores comportamentais, fatores funcionais e fatores sociais.
NOTARIS DALAM STATUS TERPIDANA YANG MASIH MENJALANKAN JABATANNYA
Authors: Gomies Franky Roberto
Published: October 2020

The purpose of this study is to determine the authority of a Notary Public in the period of parole in carrying out his position as a public official making an authentic deed and knowing the legal position of an authentic deed made by a Notary during the parole who performs the duties of a Notary Public. This type of research is normative juridical by using the statutory approach, conceptual approach and case approach. From the results of the study note: First, the position of notary public, besides being a public official as well as a public official, so a notary must always maintain his honor and dignity and have a good personality. When a notary public commits a criminal offense, the Notary Position Act will also impose administrative sanctions. Of the cases examined in this study, a notary was sentenced to a criminal sentence for drug abuse, returning to his position as a notary public to serve the public while undergoing a period of parole. This is due to the negligence of the notary Supervisory Council that has been formed in stages starting from the Regional Supervisory Council, Regional Supervisory Council and Central Supervisory Council, which does not carry out its duties, functions and obligations properly. The two acts of notary that have legally lost their authority but re-practiced and served the community are acts that are carried out without authority so that the deed they make does not have power as an authentic deed.
PENEGAKAN HUKUM TERHADAP PELAKU PERJUDIAN ONLINE DI KOTA MAKASSAR
Authors: Safitri Dian Eka
Published: October 2020

Since its discovery by the United States Department of Defense in 1969, internet usage continues to increase throughout the world. This occurs because the internet provides convenience to the public to obtain information that is needed and covers all fields of life. However, it also creates a new problem, namely the emergence of online gambling crime. Based on online gambling practices, the process of disclosure and enforcement by law enforcers against perpetrators was also relatively difficult to do either in the process of inspection, investigation and prosecution. Therefore, deeply further study is needed concerning online gambling from the legal point of view. This paper discusses the mode of operation of online gambling, and the deposit system in cash or transfer. Obstacles that occur in the process of law enforcement will also be analyzed from four aspects, namely investigators, evidence, operational budgets and facilities. In addition, the scope of this study is a case in Makassar city.
System principles in analysis of large-scale projects (on the example of high-speed traffic projects)
Authors: Romanova Alina T. , Vygnanov Alexander A. , Vygnanova Maria A.
Published: October 2020

In the article it is described the large-scale projects as a hierarchical production and economic system. The connection of the stages of the projects analysis with the assessment of the level of implementation is presented.
USING POPULAR CULTURE�S MEDIA OF INDONESIAN - ENGLISH PICTUREBOOKS AS A WAY OF REACHING MORE VEGETABLE CONSUMING CHILDREN
Authors: Dukut Ekawati Marhaenny , Utami Maya Putri , Nugroho Adi , Putri Novitai Ika , Nugrahedi Probo Y.
Published: October 2020

A questionnaire and interview recently given to 5-8 year old children and their parents show that consumption of vegetables is low. One of the factors for the low consumption is due to the lack of creativity in making various menu and creative media to obtain children?s interest in wanting to consume vegetables. In Indonesia, if young children can be taught to actively use the English language, it will be a great advantage for their future?s education. Based on these backgrounds, through the various media available in today?s popular culture, picturebooks that can increase children?s ability to read English language texts in addition to consume vegetables is created. A picturebook project is regarded highly relevant for teachers who specialize in English language, visual communicative design and food technology. This article shares how with a bilingual picturebook, a reader will know how to pronounce the English language well because there is a phonetic transcription guide provided at the back of the book. Also at the back of the book is a menu for the vegetable that becomes the main character of the book. With this strategy, the book is projected to be popular to readers who want to also create attractive vegetable menus for children. The picturebook that is packed with simple yet interesting visual language is also a way to show how creative one can be in designing lovable vegetable characters. This article discusses the reasonings of creating the picture book.
Jogos Digitais para Pessoas com Transtornos do Espectro do Autismo (TEA): Uma Revisão Sistemática
Authors: Fernandes Maicris , Nohama Percy
Published: October 2020

Individuos com transtornos do espectro do autismo (TEA) possuem desenvolvimento atipico nas areas cognitiva ou de aprendizagem, comunicacao e interacao social, deteccao e trato de emocoes, coordenacao motora e concentracao. O desenvolvimento de tecnologias assistivas e fundamental para melhorar a qualidade de vida destes individuos. Este estudo faz uma revisao sistematica da literatura com foco em jogos digitais usados como tecnologias assistivas para individuos com TEA. Fazendo uso da base digital IEEE Xplore, foram pesquisados estudos que continham o termo game em conjunto com termos relacionados ao TEA. A partir da busca foram encontradas 193 ocorrencias do conjunto de termos. Os artigos foram lidos e analisados, sendo selecionados os estudos que tratam de jogos digitais com foco em individuos com TEA. Foram excluidos da selecao jogos que fazem uso unicamente de hardwares especificos e que nao apresentam funcao de tecnología assistiva. Como resultado final deste estudo foram selecionados 62 artigos neste contexto, sendo que todos apresentam resultados positivos quanto ao uso dos jogos digitais na melhoria das capacidades das pessoas com TEA.

Desta forma, e possivel verificar a consistencia de tal abordagem, encorajando a continuidade das pesquisas e do desenvolvimento de jogos digitais com foco em tecnología assistiva para pessoas com TEA.
Promoter Polymorphisms of the Canine SCL11A1 Gene are Correlated with Susceptibility to Canine Leishmaniosis
Authors: Symeonidou Isaia , Pappa Styliani , Papadopoulos Elias , Dovas Chrysostomos I. , Kourelis Andreas , Hatzistilianou Maria , Frydas Stavros
Published: October 2020

In enzootic areas the prevalence estimates of canine leishmaniosis are high whereas only a proportion of dogs exhibit the clinical disease, thus implying a role of host genetics. The type of the triggered immune response remains a crucial determining factor for the diverse outcome of this parasitosis. The Solute Carrier Family 11 member 1 (SLC11A1) is a protein, which plays a central role in macrophage function and is implicated in the regulation of the immune response. An extended study with 73 resistant and 75 susceptible toLeishmaniadogs was conducted. A fragment of the promoter region of the canine SLC11A1 gene was amplified and digested providing the different genotypes for three previously recorded single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) (SNP1 T151C, SNP2 Α180G, SNP3 G318A) for each animal. Statistical analyses revealed that SNP2 Α180G in heterozygosity (AG) as well as SNP3 G318A in homozygosity (AA) are correlated with susceptibility to canine leishmaniosis.
Silesians in Texas and Upper Silesia: anthropometric, functional and physical activity characteristics
Authors: Rożek-Piechura Krystyna , Ignasiak Zofia , Kurzaj Monika , Sławinska Teresa , Skrzek Anna , Kozieł Sławomir , Malina Robert M.
Published: October 2020

Anthropometric, functional and physical activity characteristics of contemporary adult descendants of Upper Silesian immigrants to Texas in the mid-19th century and current residents in Upper Silesia were compared. The sample included 45 residents in Central Texas, 25 women and 20 men, and 36 residents in rural Upper Silesia, 24 women and 12 men, 54-76 years of age. Variables included selected demographic characteristics, anthropometry, estimated body composition, several physiological indicators, strength and functional fitness, and physical activity. Sex-specific MANCOVA and Chi square were used for comparisons. Descendants of Silesian immigrants to Texas were taller, on average, while differences in other anthropometric variables were variable. All residents in Silesia and the majority of descendants of Silesian migrants to Texas were overweight or obese. Differences in hemodynamic and respiratory functions and responses to a 6-minute walk were inconsistent, while none of the fitness variables differed significantly between the samples. Although residents in Upper Silesia were significantly more physically active descendants of Silesians in Texas, >80% of the men and women in both samples scored below the criterion-reference standard for the maintenance of physical independence in the 6-minute walk.
Pedigree analysis of a red fox (Vulpes vulpes) population
Authors: Grzybek Patrycja , Przysiecki Piotr , Filistowicz Andrzej , Dobrzański Jan , Szwaczkowski Tomasz
Published: October 2020

Fur animal breeding has a long history. In many countries several fur animal species (including the red fox) have been recognized as livestock. The aim of this study was to estimate the pedigree parameters in the population of red fox on a Polish breeding farm. The data set consisted of information on 39 434 individuals, including 18 697 females and 20 004 males (733 animals were of unknown sex), from the years 1956–2016. The following pedigree parameters were estimated: average number of discrete generation equivalents, individual inbreeding coefficient, total and effective number of founders, effective population size, average relationship, founder genome equivalent, effective number of non-founders, and genetic diversity coefficient. The population size changed in successive years. The average inbreeding level was 5.34% for the population as a whole, and 6.04% for the inbred population. The estimated effective number of founders of the population was 84.18. The founder genome equivalent, which indicates the anticipated loss of genetic diversity caused by genetic drift, reached 9.59 in 2016 from an initial value of 34.22 in 1956. The loss of genetic diversity caused by the unequal contribution of the founder alleles did not change significantly over the years. Generally, the results indicate the good pedigree structure (including pedigree completeness) of the population studied. This implies reliable estimation of the inbreeding level, as one of the most important parameters in the genetic improvement programme.
Microbial contamination of the air in livestock buildings as a threat to human and animal health – a review
Authors: Chmielowiec-Korzeniowska Anna , Trawińska Beata , Tymczyna Leszek , Bis-Wencel Hanna , Matuszewski Łukasz
Published: October 2020

Livestock buildings are often contaminated with bacterial and fungal microflora. Animals living in the buildings, especially their excreta and secretions and their feed, can be a source of microorganisms, including pathogens. Significant microbial contamination occurs in pig houses, poultry houses and cowsheds. The microbes most frequently isolated from the air of these buildings are bacteria of the genera Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, Bacillus, and Clostridium and of the family Enterobacteriaceae. Among fungi, the most common are Aspergillus, Trichoderma, Penicillium, Cladosporium and Alternaria. Microbes present in livestock buildings often pose a hazard to workers, in whom they can cause infectious and allergic diseases, especially respiratory disease. Bacterial endotoxins may also pose a threat to humans and animals. For this reason it is important to carry out microbiological monitoring and preventive measures on livestock farms and to maintain appropriate environmental conditions. This will reduce microbiological contamination of livestock buildings and improve both workers’ health and animal welfare.
Challenges of weed management in rice for food security in Africa: A review
Authors: Daramola Olumide Samuel , Adigun Joseph Aremu , Olorunmaiye Patience Mojibade
Published: October 2020

Rice is one of the most important crops for food security in Africa. However, there is a large gap between its present demand and supply. Weed competition is basically one of the major constraints in rice systems in Africa, leading to 48–100% yield reduction and sometimes complete crop failure, thereby threatening food security. Weed control methods currently employed to avoid such losses are predominantly hoe-weeding and herbicide application. Hoe weeding is tedious, inefficient, time consuming, associated with high labour demands and often too expensive for the average farmer to afford. Herbicide use on the other hand, does not provide season-long weed control. Moreover, there are not many herbicides that can control different kinds of weeds with one application. Thus, to optimise yield, financial, social and environmental costs and benefits, integrated and ecological weed management approaches are advocated. Future weed research should therefore be focused on delivering information for the implementation of these approaches. This would require improved knowledge of weed biology and ecology, prioritization of problematic weed species, development of competitive rice cultivars and timely weed control. To address the diversity of weed problems in rice systems in Africa, however, research innovations must take full account of farmer’s local conditions using farmers’ participatory approaches. This review suggests that knowledge-based integrated novel approaches must be developed to assist farmers in coping with the challenges of weed management for sustainable rice production.
Simulations of Heat Transfer through Multilayer Protective Clothing Exposed to Flame
Authors: Puszkarz Adam K. , Machnowski Waldemar
Published: October 2020

In this paper, the safety and thermal comfort of protective clothing used by firefighters was analyzed. Three-dimensional geometry and morphology models of real multilayer assemblies used in thermal protective clothing were mapped by selected Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software. In the designed assembly models, different scales of the resolution were used for the particular layers – a homogenization for nonwoven fabrics model and designing the geometry of the individual yarns in the model of woven fabrics. Then, the finite volume method to simulate heat transfer through the assemblies caused by their exposure to the flame was applied. Finally, the simulation results with experimental measurements conducted according to the EN ISO 9151 were compared. Based on both the experimental and simulation results, parameters describing the tested clothing protective features directly affecting the firefighter’s safety were determined. As a result of the experiment and simulations, comparable values of these parameters were determined, which could show that used methods are an efficient tool in studying the thermal properties of multilayer protective clothing.
Cluster-Based Optimization of an Evacuation Process Using a Parallel Bi-Objective Real-Coded Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Akopov Andranik S. , Beklaryan Levon A. , Beklaryan Armen L.
Published: October 2020

This work presents a novel approach to the design of a decision-making system for the cluster-based optimization of an evacuation process using a Parallel bi-objective Real-Coded Genetic Algorithm (P-RCGA). The algorithm is based on the dynamic interaction of distributed processes with individual characteristics that exchange the best potential decisions among themselves through a global population. Such an approach allows the HyperVolume performance metric (HV metric) as reflected in the quality of the subset of the Pareto optimal solutions to be improved. The results of P-RCGA were compared with other well-known multi-objective genetic algorithms (e.g., -MOEA, NSGA-II, SPEA2). Moreover, P-RCGA was aggregated with the developed simulation of the behavior of human agent-rescuers in emergency through the objective functions to optimize the main parameters of the evacuation process.
Key Generation Using Generalized Pell’s Equation in Public Key Cryptography Based on the Prime Fake Modulus Principle to Image Encryption and Its Security Analysis
Authors: Raghunandan K. R. , Ganesh Aithal , Surendra Shetty , Bhavya K.
Published: October 2020

RSA is one among the most popular public key cryptographic algorithm for security systems. It is explored in the results that RSA is prone to factorization problem, since it is sharing common modulus and public key exponent. In this paper the concept of fake modulus and generalized Pell’s equation is used for enhancing the security of RSA. Using generalized Pell’s equation it is explored that public key exponent depends on several parameters, hence obtaining private key parameter itself is a big challenge. Fake modulus concept eliminates the distribution of common modulus, by replacing it with a prime integer, which will reduce the problem of factorization. It also emphasizes the algebraic cryptanalysis methods by exploring Fermat’s factorization, Wiener’s attack, and Trial and division attacks.
Robustness of HPHC Reduction for THS 2.2 Aerosol Compared with 3R4F Reference Cigarette Smoke Under High Intensity Puffing Conditions
Authors: Goujon Catherine , Kleinhans Samuel , Maeder Serge , Poget Laurent , Schaller Jean-Pierre
Published: October 2020

In the absence of standards specific for testing the reduction robustness of the levels of harmful and potentially harmful constituents (HPHCs), the aerosol from the THS 2.2, a heated tobacco product, was compared with the mainstream smoke of the 3R4F reference cigarette over a broad range of machine-smoking regimes. The average reduction and the introduced concept of threshold limits of robust reduction were derived from HPHC concentrations, in mass per tobacco-stick normalized per total puff volume, to propose an alternative for the assessment of products where nicotine-adjusted yields would be inappropriate. In addition, this study explores the influence of 3R4F reference cigarette filter ventilation, and discusses the roles of temperature and precursors in the present context of robustness of HPHC reduction. Fifty-four HPHCs were analyzed under multiple regimes in THS 2.2 aerosol and 3R4F cigarette smoke. The average reduction of HPHC concentrations compared across all regimes characterized the robustness. Threshold limits of reduction of individual HPHCs were statistically determined across all regimes. The results observed under Health Canada Intense (HCI) and more intense regimes indicated that on average the reductions in HPHCs levels investigated in THS 2.2 aerosol were more than 90% and that the majority of the 54 HPHCs investigated in THS 2.2 aerosol showed more than 90% reduction. The robustness of THS 2.2 in maintaining the levels of reduction of representative HPHCs, whatever the puffing regime, can be quantified. The mass of HPHC per tobacco-stick normalized per total puff volume is a valuable approach to compare the robustness of the performance of a product over a large range of puffing conditions. Our findings will greatly complement the assessment for robustness of current and future similar products where classical approaches would present limitations.
Statistical Analysis for Comparison of the Results Obtained by Capillary Columns and Packed Columns in the Determination of Water Yield in Smoke Condensates Analyzed in Cigarettes for the 24th Asia Collaborative Study
Authors: Takahashi Hisayuki , Tanaka Masayasu
Published: October 2020

Recently, capillary columns have been widely used in the methodology for the determination of water yields in smoke condensate, even though ISO 10362-1:1999, “Cigarettes - Determination of water in smoke condensates – Part 1: Gas chromatographic method” specifies a packed gas chromatographic column. As a result of a systematic review in 2015, ISO/TC126 decided to revise the standard to include the use of capillary columns.

The goal of this study was to confirm the comparability of water yields obtained from capillary column methodology to those yields from packed columns by the statistical analysis of yield data from the 24th Asia Collaborative Study which included 86 datasets submitted by 64 laboratories. After the exclusion of outliers by Cochran’s and Grubbs’ tests, the datasets were classified by GC column type and then mean water yields, and their repeatability and reproducibility were calculated for each type of column. No significant differences were observed in water yields between capillary and packed columns. Repeatability and reproducibility of water yields using capillary column were comparable to those using packed columns as described in ISO 10362-1:1999. From these results, it was confirmed that the capillary columns are an appropriate alternative to packed columns for the gas chromatographic procedure described in ISO 10362-1:1999.
Dynamics of Chlorine Content in Leaves of Woody Plants of Protection Forest Bands in the City of Zaporizhzhya
Authors: Bessonova Valentina , Sklyarenko Аnastasia
Published: October 2020

As a result of the activity of industrial enterprises, atmospheric air is being contaminated by gaseous pollutants. Such substances as chlorine and hydrogen chloride are considered to be harmful for both humans and plants. Vegetation is a universal filter that is able to combat the environmental pollution by industrial emissions with the help of appropriate technical facilities. The aim of this study is to analyze the level of accumulation of chlorine in the leaves of woody plants that grow in the area of forest plantations of sanitary protection zones of industrial enterprises. The objects of the study were the species of woody plants in the area of protective plantations of a number of enterprises in Zaporizhzhya: ZTMC, ZALК, ZABR, Zaporizhstal, Zaporizhzhya Ferroalloy Plant, Zaporizhvohnetryv, Ukrgrafit and Zaporizhtransformator. We established that during the vegetation period, a gradual accumulation of the element was the most intense in mature leaves, whose growth had already ceased. The maximum amount of chlorine was found at the end of the vegetation period. The concentration of the pollutant in leaves of woody plants in the area of sanitary protection zones of industrial enterprises is linearly proportional to the level of emissions of the pollutant into the atmosphere by a given enterprise. The largest coefficient of relative accumulation of chlorine in the leaves of such plants as Catalpa bignonioides, Acer negundo, Robinia pseudoacacia, Juglans regia, Populus alba, which can be used as information sites for the purpose of bioindication of atmospheric air pollution with chlorides, was established.
Traditional Serbian Countryside and Second-Home Tourism Perspectives
Authors: Terzić Aleksandra , Drobnjaković Marija , Petrevska Biljana
Published: October 2020

Rural tourism offers opportunity to local communities to oppose the process of rural abandonment. This study assesses the tourism potential of two almost depopulated villages in Serbia, Gostuša (Pirot) and Poganovo (Dimitrovgrad), and identifies their second-home tourism perspectives. They have similar geo-demographic characteristics, but different development patterns. A practical understanding of residents’ perception was gained along with identifying the socio-economic indicators. A comprehensive comparison is made to identify the diversification level of the rural economy in these villages. The study also assesses the rural capital and concludes that it is not realistic to expect fast and sustainable tourism development in these peripheral rural areas. Finally, the study extracts the factors of influence and predicts trends of the diversification process and second-home tourism expansion in rural areas of Balkan Mt.