bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CARRIAGE AND TRAFFIC CAPACITY OF RAILWAY HAULS IN REALIZATION OF «VIRTUAL COUPLING» TECHNOLOGY OF FREIGHT TRAINS
Authors:   Siberian state university of railway transport, Klimova E. V.
Published: November 2020

The article looks upon investigation results of efficiency of train movement regulating non-stop systems (including in case of usage of «virtual coupling» of freight trains) as compared to traffic signalization for a rated railway section. The analysis of scientific papers showed that the use of regulation interval systems makes it possible to reduce the estimated value of interval between trains, to increase the line carriage and traffic capacity, which is pertinent for sections with a throughput capacity close to admissible value. A «section carriage capacity» indicator is accepted in this case as a technology effect. When the distance between trains in the interval regulation system is decreased, the existent carriage (expressed in freight train paths) and traffic capacity of the section increase, this resulting in reduction of carriage capacity coefficient. The results of calculations are presented in the form of dependency diagrams of key indicators from the distance between trains in the interval regulation system. The shown dependencies enable determining of efficiency spheres of non-stop regulation system usage as compared to traffic signal systems as well as under conditions of freight train composition and handling according to «virtual coupling» technology.
INVESTIGATION OF OPERATIONAL PARAMETERS OF A GAS DISTRIBUTION MECHANISM UNDER VIBROACOUSTIC CONTROL IN TESTING MODE
Authors:   South Ural state university, Gritsenko A. V. , Glemba K. V. ,   South Ural state university, Balyasnikov A. S. ,   South Ural state agrarian university
Published: November 2020

Statistical analysis of ICE system faults shows a considerable growth of gas distribution mechanism failures: on average 7-12 %.This is explained by complicacy of gas distribution elements and occurrence of numerous new elements ( hydraulic pushers, hydraulic tensioners, automatic correcting mechanism of gas distribution phases, multivalve systems). However, in practice improvement of the gas distribution mechanism conspicuously surpasses development of new veracious techniques and methods of technical condition control. Development of new techniques and methods of technical condition control over the gas distribution mechanism enables solving of the important task to increase the engine operational resource. The most informative and veracious diagnostic method is vibroacoustic one, which makes it possible to evaluate technical condition of gas distribution mechanism at any stage. In order to diagnose the gas distribution mechanism with consideration of minimum interference and maximum information content, we chose the equipment which includes USB-Avtoscope III (Postolovsky oscillograph), a laptop with data analysis software, a pressure sensor for pressure control in the cylinder and an accelerometer. For prevention of linear expansion of metals , diagnostics was made on the engine with the temperature ranging from +80 to +90° C (measurements which are taken by a measuring probe within this temperature range are identical). The maximum expansion of metal was fixed at 1100 min-1 in 14 sec., at 1300 min-1 - 13 sec., at 1500 min-1 - 10,2 sec. Change of valve expansion clearance from 0,35 mm to 0,7 mm reduces the valve opening phase by 2×15°30′ (i.e. results in considerable delay of valve opening by 15°30′ and acceleration of its closure by 15°30′).
JUSTIFICATION OF THE VALUE OF REQUIRED INTERVAL BETWEEN VEHICLES IN SUBURBAN AND URBAN PASSENGER TRANSPORTATION ON THE EXAMPLE OF RAILWAY DIAMETERS
Authors:   Russian University of Transport (RUT-MIIT), Romenkiy D. Yu. , Kalinin K. A. ,   Russian University of Transport (RUT-MIIT)
Published: November 2020

When designing passenger transport systems and modeling their operation, researchers face the problem of choosing the consumer properties of the transport system. In modern conditions, in order to compete with other modes of transport, each transport system must offer the passenger a continuous mode of operation, in which the passenger does not need to adjust to the schedule, but only needs to arrive at the stop point and wait for the nearest vehicle (train, bus, etc.). One of the most important characteristics required for design and simulation is the time that a passenger is willing to spend waiting for a vehicle at a station without compromising the comfort of transportation. The paper reveals regularities between such important parameters of schedules as the maximum allowable (optimal for the organizer of transportation) and comfortable (for the passenger) value of intervals between vehicles on the example of suburban-urban railway passenger transportation. A qualitative estimation of the speed parameter of the vehicle traffic schedule is introduced. The values of comfortable and maximum permissible intervals between trains are determined depending on the distance (duration) of the trip.
Drug safety monitoring in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia)
Authors:   Medical institute of North-Eastern federal university named M.K. Ammosov, Everstova A.A. , Bubiakina I.I. ,   Medical institute of North-Eastern federal university named M.K. Ammosov, Kuzmina A.A. ,   Medical institute of North-Eastern federal university named M.K. Ammosov, Malogulova I.Sh. ,   Medical institute of North-Eastern federal university named M.K. Ammosov, Klimova T.M. ,   Medical institute of North-Eastern federal university named M.K. Ammosov
Published: November 2020

The aim of the research is analysis of frequency and nature of adverse reactions during the use of drugs in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) according to automated information system of Russian Federal Service for Surveillance in Healthcare “Pharmacovigilance” (Roszdravnadzor “Pharmakonadzor”). Material and methods. Data from the AIS Roszdravnadzor “Pharmakonadzor” in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) for the period from 2014 to 2019 were used for the analysis. It should be noted that since April 1, 2019 data collection is carried out using the modified notification form. Results. For the period of 2014-2019 300 reports (292 primary and 8 repeated) on adverse reactions and cases of therapeutic ineffectiveness of drugs were registered. According to the leading criterion concerning person’s life severity, there were notifications on 20 deaths of patients, 60 life-threatening cases, 1 case of disability, 105 cases of hospitalization or prolongation of its terms, 35 clinically significant event cases. It was noted, that mainly, antimicrobial drugs and drugs for nervous system treatment caused adverse reactions. Conclusion. Report frequency on drugs adverse reactions or lack of therapeutic effect in the region was assessed as insufficient. There should be additional training for medical workers on the procedure for implementing pharmacovigilance in medical organizations, correct notification filling, which ensures reports completeness and its quality
Analysis of pregnancy outcomes at 25-37 weeks in case of pelvic fracture
Authors:   Altai state medical University, Stepanova I.S. , Terekhina V.Yu. ,   Altai state medical University
Published: November 2020

The aim of the work is to study clinical cases and outcomes of pregnancy in women who have pelvic fracture during pregnancy. The article examines two cases of concomitant injury in pregnant patients at 25-37 weeks. In both cases, there is a break of pelvic bones of various localization. On basis of these observations, the authors draw conclusions about the significance of the mother’s condition and associated injuries for a favorable outcome.
Age facets of children’s and teenagers’ giftedness manifestation
Authors:   Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Angelova O.Yu. , Podolskaya T.O. , Prokhorova M.V.
Published: November 2020

Presented is empirical investigation, conducted on the base of university centre, specialized in teenagers’ training on scientific and physic-mathematical field. Parents of 85 gifted children took part in the research. Interview was utilized to collect data that was analyzed by means of descriptive statistics and cross-tabulation. Age periods, that could be considered “sensitive” to reveal children’s general giftedness, their achievement of primary results and forming an image of future profession, were singled out. Most often unveiling giftedness occurs in pre-school childhood, reaching primary results, in junior school childhood and forming an image of future profession in junior teens. It was stated, that an interval existed between time of revealing capabilities of gifted children and launch of their active support by parents as well as involvement of focused specialists. It could be shortened at the expense of psychological and pedagogical training and corresponding informational guidance.
Towards Robust and Interpretable Practical Applications of Automatic Mental State Analysis Using a Dynamic and Hybrid Facial Action Estimation Approach
Authors:   , Hassan Teena
Published: November 2020

This dissertation presents a probabilistic state estimation framework for integrating data-driven machine learning models and a deformable facial shape model in order to estimate continuous-valued intensities of 22 different facial muscle movements, known as Action Units (AU), defined in the Facial Action Coding System (FACS). A practical approach is proposed and validated for integrating class-wise probability scores from machine learning models within a Gaussian state estimation framework. Furthermore, driven mass-spring-damper models are applied for modelling the dynamics of facial muscle movements. Both facial shape and appearance information are used for estimating AU intensities, making it a hybrid approach. Several features are designed and explored to help the probabilistic framework to deal with multiple challenges involved in automatic AU detection. The proposed AU intensity estimation method and its features are evaluated quantitatively and qualitatively using three different datasets containing either spontaneous or acted facial expressions with AU annotations. The proposed method produced temporally smoother estimates that facilitate a fine-grained analysis of facial expressions. It also performed reasonably well, even though it simultaneously estimates intensities of 22 AUs, some of which are subtle in expression or resemble each other closely. The estimated AU intensities tended to the lower range of values, and were often accompanied by a small delay in onset. This shows that the proposed method is conservative. In order to further improve performance, state-of-the-art machine learning approaches for AU detection could be integrated within the proposed probabilistic AU intensity estimation framework. In addition to AU intensity estimation, this dissertation explores the applicability of the estimated AU intensities for automatic analysis of mental states such as pain and distraction. A survey of automatic pain detection approaches, conducted as part of this dissertation, highlights the progress and deficits in this field. Several AU-based rules are designed for pain intensity estimation based on psychological evidence, and their performance is evaluated empirically. The potential of these AU-based rules to automatically generate explanations for pain detections is also illustrated. Furthermore, a preliminary analysis of the estimated AU intensities shows differences in facial actions between various distraction scenarios during simulated driving. The results of this dissertation show that more interdisciplinary research is needed to address the open challenges in the field of automatic mental state analysis, particularly to build reference datasets, to model interpersonal differences, and to generate human-comprehensible explanations of predictions.
Determinant Factor of Pulmonary Function Impairment on Rice Mill Workers
Authors: Nurfitria Hernanda Arie , Syafa’ah Shulkhiatus , Adriyani Retno
Published: November 2020

Introduction: Exposure to organic dust in the agricultural industry can cause pulmonary function problems for workers. This study aims to know the determinant of pulmonary function impairment on rice mill workers in Ujung Pangkah, Gresik, East Java. Method: This study was an analytical observational study using a cross-sectional design. This study’s population were all rice mill workers in Ketapang and Glatik Villages, Ujung Pangkah, Gresik, East Java there were 25 people. The sample of this study was 16 people. The independent variable in this study was the sex, working period, smoking, and using a mask, while the dependent variable was the pulmonary function status of workers. The data respondent obtained a questionnaire, observations, and measurement of workers’ pulmonary function using a spirometer. Data analysis was performed in analytic descriptive with the Spearman correlation test. Result and Discussion: The Spearman test results are known that the working period (r = -0.022) and smoking (r = -0.160) were very weak and an inverse correlation with pulmonary function status. In comparison, the use of masks (r = 0.462) was adequate and directly correlated with pulmonary function status. Smoking and working period will describe the length of exposure to rice dust, affecting the pulmonary function status. The obedience of using masks to workers will reduce the risk of pulmonary function impairment. Conclusion: Working period, smoking, and using mask are determinants of pulmonary function impairment on rice mill workers in Ujung Pangkah, Gresik, East Java.
Literature Review: Food Processing in Minimizing Chemical Contamination of Rhodamin B in Shrimp Paste and Chlorpirifos Residue in Fresh Vegetables Garnish Which are Circulating in the Communities in Indonesia
Authors: Aprilianintyas Nuur Anisa
Published: November 2020

Introduction: Food circulation among communities is prone to chemical contamination. The contamination is obtained from both food processing and food cultivation (planting, raw materials). One of the examples related to chemical contamination can be seen in the contamination of rhodamine B on Terasi. Although there is a prohibition on using Rhodamine B compounds in food add-ons, which is listed in Regulation of Ministry of Health of Republic Indonesia No.722/Menkes/Per/IX/1988, its usage is widely found. Similarly, chlorpyrifos pesticide residue in lalapan is the other example provided. The usage of it remains to continue even though the result of pesticide residue value is under BMR SNI 7313:2008. The article aims to study food processing efforts in minimizing the chemical contamination of Rhodamine B in shrimp terasi and chlorpyrifos residue in the lalapan vegetables in the communities in Indonesia. A literature review on scientific publications was undertaken through Google Scholar, ResearchGate, Neliti, ScienceDirect, LIPI, Directory Open Acces Journal, and Crossref. The keywords used were related to rhodamin B on terasi, synthetic dyes on terasi, natural dyes for terasi, vegetable pesticide residues, Chlorpyrifos residue on vegetables, and how to reduce chlorpyrifos residue in vegetables. All of them were published between the 2015 – 2020 period. Discussion: Chlorpyrifos residue in vegetables can be reduced by washing, soaking brine, and boiling. The usage of rhodamine B on Terasi can be replaced by the application of dragon fruit skin extract and angkak (red yeast rice) for natural dye alternatives. Conclusion: Washing food with running water and soaking it in hot water before food consumption can lower chlorpyrifos residue level in dark vegetables. However, it is more significant to lover the residue level through the boiling step. The use of natural pesticides can be used as the choice of alternative. Moreover, rhodamine B on terasi can be replaced with natural dye alternatives such as angkak (red yeast rice) and dragon fruit skin extract.
Literature Review: Coal Dust Exposure and Pulmonary Physiology Status
Authors: Putri Nadya Safitri
Published: November 2020

Introduction: Occupational disease is a problem due to the dangers that exist in the work environment. One of the dangers is dust. Dust, either organic or inorganic, is a chemical agent that can cause impairment in the human respiratory tract. As a side result of the processing process in coal mining, coal dust is one example of the danger in the working environment. The flying dust can enter the worker’s respiratory tract and cause adverse effects, which should be noted. This study aims to analyze coal dust exposure to pulmonary physiology status and explore what risk factors cause a decline in pulmonary physiology status. Discussion: This study used the literature review method by using research data with the same topic as secondary data. The selected research was a cross-sectional design. The literature review results showed that the inclusion of coal dust was influenced by several variables, such as dust content, age, employment, smoking habits, and the use of PPE. Conclusion: The most widely found variable has a relationship with the pulmonary physiology status is a variable of coal dust levels, age, length of work, and smoking habit.
Using Kano and TRIZ to Investigate the Mobile Dining Car Service Quality in Taiwan
Authors: Chen Ten-Suz , Huang Yung-Fu , Hou Kuo-Lung , Weng Ming-Wei , Xu Ning , Lin Ju-Chen
Published: November 2020

This purpose of the research presented in this article is to comparing different service quality measurements between Kano and TRIZ that plays the critical roles in the catering industrial. Data collected from a DINESERV questionnaire comprises service-quality standards to increase customer satisfaction of mobile dining car. Finally, the TRIZ is standardized measure designed to improve the idealization of strategy for selecting the most appropriate service quality model. In addition, the preferences of more than one decision maker are internally aggregated into the TOPSIS procedure. The findings of this study provide several important theoretical and practical implications for developing a successful mobile catering app. The results have demonstrated our approach to be both robust and efficient.
Analysis of the Cost of Varying Levels of User Perceived Quality for Internet Access
Authors: Arnab Ali Adib , Schormans John , Razibulhasan Raj Sheikh , Ahmad Nafi
Published: November 2020

Quality of Service (QoS) metrics deal with network quantities, e.g. latency and loss, whereas Quality of Experience (QoE) provides a proxy metric for end-user experience. Many papers in the literature have proposed mappings between various QoS metrics and QoE. This paper goes further in providing analysis for QoE versus bandwidth cost. We measure QoE using the widely accepted Mean Opinion Score (MOS) rating. Our results naturally show that increasing bandwidth increases MOS. However, we extend this understanding by providing analysis for internet access scenarios, using TCP, and varying the number of TCP sources multiplexed together. For these target scenarios our analysis indicates what MOS increase you get by further expenditure on bandwidth. We anticipate that this will be of considerable value to commercial organizations responsible for bandwidth purchase and allocation.
Changes in the Salivary Metabolic Profile of Generalized Periodontitis Patients after Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy. A Metabolomic Analysis Using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
Authors: Citterio Filippo , Romano Federica , Meoni Gaia , Iaderosa Giovanni , Grossi Silvia , Sobrero Alberto , Dego Francesca , Corana Matteo , Berta Giovanni Nicolao , Tenori Leonardo , Aimetti Mario
Published: November 2020

Pattern analysis of salivary metabolic profile has been proven accurate to discriminate generalized periodontitis (GP) patients from healthy individuals (HI) as disease modifies the salivary concentrations of specific metabolites. Due to the scarcity of data in the literature, the aim of this study was to determine whether non-surgical periodontal therapy (NST) could change salivary metabolomic profile in GP to one more similar to HI. Unstimulated whole saliva of 11 HI and 12 GP patients were obtained prior to and 3 months after NST. Metabolic profiling was performed using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, followed by supervised multivariate statistical approach on entire saliva spectra and partial least square (PLS) discriminant analysis. In GP group, periodontal treatment improved all clinical parameters, but not all the diseased sites were eradicated. PLS revealed an accuracy of 100% in discriminating the metabolomic profile of each GP patient before and after NST. OPLS was able to discriminate the 3 groups of subjects with an accuracy of 85.6%. However the post-NST metabolic profile of GP patients could not be completely assimilated to that of HS. Although NST may produce significant changes in the metabolic profile, GP patients maintained a distinctive fingerprint compared to HI.
Aging-induced Changes in Sperm DNA Methylation are Modified by Low Dose of Perinatal Flame retardants
Authors: Pilsner J.Richard , Shershebnev Alex , Wu Haotian , Marcho Chelsea , Dribnokhodova Olga , Shtratnikova Victoria , Sergeyev Oleg , Suvorov Alexander
Published: November 2020

Advanced paternal age at fertilization has been suggested to be a risk factor for neurodevelopmental, psychiatric and other disorders in offspring. One emerging hypothesis suggests that altered offspring phenotype is linked with age-related accumulation of epigenetic changes in the sperm of fathers. Given that paternal age is increasing in the developed world, understanding aging-related epigenetic changes in sperm is needed as well as environmental factors that modify such changes. In this study, we characterize age-dependent changes in sperm DNA methylation profiles between young pubertal (postnatal day (PNDs) 65) and mature (PND120) Wistar rats. We also analyze these changes in rats exposed perinatally to 0.2 mg/kg of ubiquitous environmental xenobiotic 2,2’,4,4’-tetrabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-47). Reduced representation bisulfite sequencing (RRBS) libraries were prepared from caudal epididymal sperm DNA and differentially methylated regions (DMRs; ≥ 10x coverage depth, ≥ 3 CpGs per cluster, ≥ 5% methylation change, q < 0.05) were identified via MethPipe package. In control animals, 5,319 age-dependent DMRs were identified, with 99.3% DMRs hypermethylated in mature animals compared to young pubertal rats. These age-related DMRs were enriched for functional categories essential for embryonic development, such as pattern specification, forebrain and sensory organ development, Hippo and Wnt pathways. Age-related changes in sncRNA, reported in different study, target similar list of genes and biological categories.In BDE-47 exposed rats, sperm DNA methylation was higher in young pubertal and lower in mature animals when compared to controls, which resulted in a significant attenuation in the number of age-dependent DMRs (N = 189) identified in the exposed group. In conclusion, our results indicate that the natural aging process has profound effects on sperm methylation levels and this effect may be modified by environmental exposures. Moreover, our results further support the role of epigenetic mechanisms as a likely link betwen paternal age and offspring health and development.
Tailoring of Thermo-Mechanical Properties of Hybrid Composite-Metal Bonded Joints
Authors: Khaleque Tasnuva , Zhang Xiaolong , Kumar Thakur Vijay , Aria Adrianus Indrat , Yazdani Nezhad Hamed
Published: November 2020

Metallic substrates and polymer adhesive in composite-metal joints have a relatively large coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) mismatch, which is a barrier in the growing market of electric vehicles and their battery structures. It is reported that adding carbon nanotubes (CNTs) to the adhesive reduces the CTE of the CNT enhanced polymer adhesive multi-material system, therefore when used in adhesively bonded joints it would, theoretically, result in low CTE mismatch in the joint system. The current article presents the influence of two specific mass ratios of CNTs on the CTE of the enhanced polymer. It was observed that the addition of 1.0 wt% and 2.68 wt% of multi-walled CNTs (MWCNTs) decreased the CTE of the polymer adhesive from 7.5e-5 1/C (pristine level) to 5.87e-5 1/C and 4.43e-5 1/C, respectively by 22% and 41% reduction. The reduction in the CTE was predicted, theoretically, which showed that CTE should have been reduced to 3.6e-5 1/C (52% reduction) and 1.4e-5 1/C (81% reduction). This may be due to the fact that, Raman spectroscopy of the MWCNTs identified defects in the raw material, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) identified agglomeration of MWCNTs on the surface and cross-section of the modified polymers.
Deep Learning for Satellite Rainfall Retrieval Using Himawari-8 Multiple Spectral Channels
Authors: Tsay Jenq-Dar , Kao Kevin , Chao Chun-Chieh , Chang Yu-Cheng
Published: November 2020

Rainfall retrieval using geostationary satellites provides critical means to the monitoring of extreme rainfall events. Using the relatively new Himawari 8 meteorological satellite with three times more channels than its predecessors, the deep learning framework of “convolutional autoencoder” (CAE) was applied to the extraction of cloud and precipitation features. The CAE method was incorporated into the Convolution Neural Network version of the PERSIANN precipitation retrieval that uses GOES satellites. By applying the CAE technique with the addition of Residual Blocks and other modifications of deep learning architecture, the presented derivation of PERSIANN operated at the Central Weather Bureau of Taiwan (referred to as PERSIANN-CWB) expands four extra convolution layers to fully use Himawari 8’s infrared and water vapor channels, while preventing degradation of accuracy caused by the deeper network. The development of PERSIANN-CWB was trained over Taiwan for its diverse weather systems and localized rainfall features, and the evaluation reveals an overall improvement from its CNN counterpart and superior performance over all other rainfall retrievals analyzed. Limitation of this model was found in the derivation of typhoon rainfall, an area requiring further research.
Evolutionary Game for Confidentiality in IoT-enabled Smart Grids
Authors: Boudko Svetlana , Aursand Peder , Abie Habtamu
Published: November 2020

We applied evolutionary game theory to extend a resource constrained security game model for confidentiality attacks in an Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), which is a component of IoT-enabled Smart Grids. The AMI is modelled as a tree structure where each node aggregates the information of its children before encrypting it and passing it on to its parent. As a part of the model, we developed a discretization scheme for solving the replicator equations. The aim of this work is to explore the space of possible behaviours of attackers and to develop a framework where the AMI nodes adaptively select the most profitable strategies. Using this model, we simulated the evolution of a population of attackers and defenders on various cases resembling the real life implementation of AMI. We discuss in depth how to enhance security in AMI using evolutionary game theory either by a priori analysis or as a tool to run dynamic and adaptive infrastructure defence.
Effect of Heparanase Inhibitor on Tissue Factor Overexpression in Platelets and Endothelial Cells Induced by Anti-β2-GPI Antibodies
Authors: Capozzi Antonella , Riitano Gloria , Recalchi Serena , Manganelli Valeria , Costi Roberta , Saccoliti Francesco , Pulcinelli Fabio , Garofalo Tina , Misasi Roberta , Longo Agostina , Di Santo Roberto , Sorice Maurizio
Published: November 2020

Anti-phospholipid syndrome (APS) is characterized by arterial and/or venous thrombosis and pregnancy morbidity associated with the presence of “anti-phospholipid antibodies”. Thrombosis may be the result of a hypercoagulable state related to activation of endothelial cells and platelets by anti-2-glycoprotein I (β2-GPI) antibodies. Anti-β2-GPI antibodies induce a proinflammatory and procoagulant phenotype in these cells that, after activation, express Tissue Factor (TF), the major initiator of the clotting cascade, playing a role in thrombotic manifestations. Moreover, TF expression may also be induced by Heparanase, an endo--D-glucuronidase, that generates heparan sulfate fragments, regulating inflammatory responses. In this study we analyzed, in human platelets and endothelial cells, the effect of a new symmetrical 2-aminophenyl-benzazolyl-5-acetate derivative (RDS3337), able to inhibit Heparanase activity, on signal transduction pathway leading to TF expression triggered by anti-β2-GPI. Platelets and endothelial cells were incubated with affinity purified anti-β2-GPI after pretreatment with RDS3337. Cell lysates were analyzed for phospho-interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase 1 (IRAK1), phospho-p65 nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and TF by Western blot. IRAK phosphorylation and consequent NF-κB activation, as well as TF expression, triggered by anti-β2-GPI treatment were significantly prevented by previous pretreatment with RDS3337. In the same vein, pretreatment with RDS3337 prevented platelet aggregation and ATP release triggered by anti-β2-GPI antibodies. These findings support the view of Heparanase involvement in a prothrombotic state related to APS syndrome, suggesting a novel target to regulate overexpression of procoagulant protein(s).
Pore Pressure Analysis for Distinguishing Earthquakes Induced by CO2 Injection from Natural Earthquakes
Authors: Chhun Chanmaly , Tsuji Takeshi
Published: November 2020

It is important to distinguish between natural earthquakes and those induced by CO2 injection at carbon capture and storage sites. For example, the 2004 Mw 6.8 Chuetsu earthquake occurred close to the Nagaoka CO2 storage site during gas injection, but we could not quantify whether the earthquake was due to CO2 injection or not. Here we simulated changes of pore pressure during CO2 injection at the Nagaoka site and compared them with estimated natural seasonal fluctuations of pore pressure due to rainfall and snowmelt as well as estimated pore pressure increases related to remote earthquakes. We clearly distinguished changes of pore pressure due to CO2 injection from those due to rainfall and snowmelt. The simulated local increase in pore pressure at seismogenic fault area was much less than the seasonal fluctuations related to precipitation and increases caused by remote earthquakes, and the lateral extent of pore pressure increase was insufficient to influence seismogenic faults. We also demonstrated that pore pressure changes due to distant earthquakes are capable of triggering slip on seismogenic faults. The approach we developed could be used to distinguish natural from injection-induced earthquakes and will be useful for that purpose at other CO2 sequestration sites.
Critical thinking in cognitive domain: Exploring assessment of English teaching at pandemic period of covid-19
Authors: Akib Erwin , Muhsin Muh. Arief
Published: November 2020

Assessment is an evaluation tool in learning adjusted to the times. The criteria must be included in the assessment are indicators in the cognitive domain and critical thinking. Therefore, this study intends to explore teaching assessments prepared by lecturers in assessing students' cognitive shutter and critical thinking abilities. The data took in the pandemic period of pandemic in Covid-19. The subjects of this study were 269 lecturers who teaching in English education departments in some Muhammadiyas’ university in South Sulawesi. There were 25 items of questionnaires arranged to analyses the teacher assessment based on 10 indicators in critical thinking. The results showed the dominant lecturer measured the ability of students on the C1-C2 scale even though some lecturers had been on the C5-C6 scale. The lecturer learning assessment has implemented indicators of critical thinking skills. The study recommended for future researcher in developing assessment of teaching especially for English department.
Using podcast for EFL students in language learning
Authors: Indahsari Dyan
Published: November 2020

One of the popular products of technology created to support language learning is podcast. As a digital recording, podcast can be used to support English language learning, specifically on the listening skill. This study reviews the effects of using podcast in supporting language learning. The aim of this study is to introduce podcast as a tool for developing language skill. Podcast as a tool has the power to motivate students in learning English. This study reviewed 20 articles published around 2020-2010 to find the effects of using podcast in teaching English to EFL students. The result of this study showed that podcast can increase language ability, especially the listening skill. Furthermore, podcast can motivate students in learning language. Teachers are recommended to use podcast as an interesting technological tool to support language learning for Indonesian students. The students confirmed that podcast is fascinating when it is used in the learning of listening skill. Podcast is a potential choice as an English learning support and it allows teachers to incorporate technology in teaching. It is important to note that the intention is not to replace teacher’s presence with podcast. Therefore, it is suggested that in using podcast teachers should provide proper guidance for their students on how get its full potential. HIGHLIGHTS: Podcasts can be alternative media to foster innovation in English Language Teaching. Integrating podcast into the related curriculum and syllabi to support listening class helps provide more contextual and communicative materials.
Panas pela of education: Desegregation of Muslim and Christian post-reconciliation at SMPN 4 Salahutu Liang and SMPN 9 Ambon
Authors: Hasudungan Anju Nofarof
Published: November 2020

This article examines the process of desegregation through panas pela of education at SMPN 4 Salahutu Liang and SMPN 9 Ambon. Panas pela of education is a transformation of pela gandong local wisdom with the aim ofovercoming segregation in schools. Pela gandong is a bond of brotherhoodbetween the people of Maluku, regardless of religion, either Islam or Christian.The implementation of panas pela of education has been started since 2013between SMPN 9 Ambon, whose students are 99% Christian/Catholic and SMPN 4 Salahutu Liang, which are 100% Muslim students. This research method uses qualitative research with a case study approach. Data collection techniques used by observation, participation, literature review, interviews, and documentation. Panas pela of education as a process of desegregation is carried out in the form of joint activities such as sports fairs, scouts, iftar, Christmas, student council activities and teacher exchanges. In addition, the students also performed dances, songs, and poetry without any segregation between them. In the midst of the current strengthening of polarization due to political choices, the panas pela of education is present as a means of social integration and evidence of the existence of harmonization between religious adherents in Indonesia.
Differences in psychosocial impact of lockdown and life satisfaction among Nigerian working adults during Covid-19
Authors: Itasanmi Sunday , Ekpenyong Violet , Ojedeji Solomon
Published: November 2020

This study assessed differences in the psychosocial impact of lockdown and life satisfaction among Nigerian working adults during the Covid-19 pandemic. The study was hinged on the social stress theory. Five hundred and eighteen (518) Nigerian working adults participated in the study using a convenience sampling technique. Two sets of questionnaires were the main instruments of data collection and were complemented by in-depth interview. Quantitative data collected were analyzed using one-way ANOVA, while the qualitative data was thematically analyzed. Findings revealed, amongst others, that livelihood activities of working adults in Nigeria were significantly affected by the Covid-19 lockdown. Working adults who lost jobs during Covid-19 lockdown reported a higher psychosocial impact of the lockdown compared to those who stopped working, worked at home and those who worked at the office during the Covid-19 lockdown in the country. Based on the findings, it was recommended among others, that there is a need for concerted efforts by stakeholders in the country to provide enabling environment for working adults to recover and sustainably return to reasonable livelihood from the shocks occasioned by Covid-19 pandemic.
Surgeon educator perspectives of implementing a National Undergraduate Curriculum in otolaryngology
Authors: Hall Andrew , Jones Huw , Hannan Alam
Published: November 2020

BackgroundThe General Medical Council will be implementing a national examination for all UK medical students in 2022. Our aim was to review surgeon educator perceptions on the future implementation of an associated undergraduate national curriculum in otolaryngology within a UK School of Surgery.MethodsA mixed methods study was performed to assess ENT surgeon educator perspectives of a change to a national curriculum in ENT. Responses were reviewed with respect to teaching content, quality and student experience with degree of agreement assessed with Likert scoring. Associated qualitative focus group sessions were performed and responses underwent detailed thematic analysis according to grounded theory.ResultsA response rate of 50% was achieved with twenty-one participants analysed working in fourteen hospitals. These held an average of eight years undergraduate teaching experience. These showed strong agreement believing implementation of a national curriculum would improve the standard of teaching delivered at a personal, institutional and national level. There was also agreement on a minimum baseline for teaching exposure by students. 95% of surgeon educators in otolaryngology were in support of future adoption of a change to a centralized national otolaryngology curriculum in contrast to conventional expectations of resistance. Further related themes were identified relating to the personal, institutional and specialty related factors influencing practical delivery of a national curriculum that can help shape this delivery.ConclusionsEvaluating the future implementation of a national curriculum in ENT from those involved in the regular practical delivery of undergraduate medical education was previously unassessed within the medical literature. A series of practical recommendations are made to assist the implementation of a national ENT curriculum in contrast to the current locally led system. These were divided into areas of teaching content, teaching quality and student experience. A national curriculum appears to offer a philosophically accessible and popular re-imagining for future undergraduate otolaryngology training. Our findings aim to offer assistance to other similar surgical sub-specialties facing similar challenges internationally.
High common childhood illnesses while the treatment-seeking behavior of mothers/caregivers’ was low in rural northwest Ethiopia in 2018. A community-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Kebede Zemene Tigabu , Gelaye Kassahun Alemu , Merid Mehari Woldemariam , Akalu Temesgen Yihunie , Amare Ashenafi Tazebew , Toni Alemayehu Teklu , Bikis Gashaw Andargie , Ayele Tadesse Awoke
Published: November 2020

Background: In most developing countries, childhood illness, and deaths are among the most challenging health issues. Most of these deaths were due to preventable causes including acute respiratory infections (ARI), diarrhea, and febrile illnesses. Thus, the identification of determinants of this childhood illness would help to guide strategic planning and prioritize interventions.Method: Community based cross-sectional study was conducted. A two-stage cluster sampling technique was used to select households and mothers/caregivers. A total of 2,158 mothers/caregivers with at least one under-five child were included. Mothers/caregivers were interviewed at their homes using a pretested and structured questionnaire. Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) with a 95% Confidence Interval (CI) for variables with P-value <0.05 in the multivariable model were reported to show the significance and the direction of the association. Result: The overall prevalence of childhood illnesses was 16.5% (95% CI: 15.0, 18.2). Of all, 6.5% (95% CI: 5.5, 6.72), 7.5% (95% CI: 6.5, 8.76), and 12.0% (95% CI: 10.66, 13.40) had diarrhea, ARI, and fever, respectively. The treatment-seeking behavior of mothers/care-givers for any of the childhood illnesses was 22.7% (18.72, 27.42). The odds of childhood illness was higher among mothers’ age 15-19 years (AOR=2.87-; 95%CI: 1.33, 6.13), employed mothers’ (AOR=2.28; 95%CI: 1.84, 4.39), living far away from the nearest health center (AOR=1.02; 95%CI: 1.005, 1.027), presence of two under-five children (AOR=1.33;955CI: 1.029,1.74) and three or more under-five children in the house (AOR=2.70; 95%CI: 1.12, 6.53) than a single child. About 23% (95% CI: 18.7, 27.4) of mothers/caregivers sought health care for the sick child. Mothers’ occupation (AOR= 4.08 (95% CI: 1.35, 12.39) was the only independent predictor of treatment-seeking behavior.Conclusion: The common childhood illness remains high while the treatment-seeking behavior of the caregivers’ was low. Mothers’ age, occupation, distance from the health center, and the presence of two or more under-five children in the house were independent factors of childhood illness. Being skilled mothers was significantly associated with good health-seeking behavior of mothers/caregivers. Thus, involving women in skilled/semi-skilled occupations would help in decreasing childhood illness and enhance health-seeking behaviors for their under-five children.
Serum Periostin Levels at Birth as a Predictor for Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia in Premature Infants.
Authors: Go Hayato , Ono Junya , Ohto Hitoshi , Nollet Kenneth E. , Sato Kenichi , Kume Yohei , Maeda Hajime , Chishiki Mina , Haneda Kentaro , Ichikawa Hirotaka , Kashiwabara Nozomi , Kanai Yuji , Ogasawara Kei , Sato Maki , Hashimoto Koichi , Nunomura Satoshi , Izuhara Kenji , Hosoya Mitsuaki
Published: November 2020

Background: Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is the most common morbidity complicating preterm birth and affects long-term respiratory outcomes. Periostin plays an important role in the development of various disease such as allergic and pulmonary diseases. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the perinatal factors affecting serum periostin levels at birth and to establish whether serum periostin at birth, day of life (DOL) 28 and corrected 36 week’s gestational age could be potential biomarkers for BPD.Methods: A total of 139 preterm (n=98) and healthy (n=41) infants were included in this study. Among of them, 98 infants born < 32 weeks were divided into BPD (n=44) and non-BPD infants (n=54). Serum periostin levels were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: The median serum periostin levels at birth in preterm infants born < 32 weeks were significantly higher than those in healthy infants. Furthermore, there were significant inverse correlations between gestational age, birth weight, and serum periostin levels at birth among all 139 preterm and healthy infants. Among preterm infants born < 32 weeks, with BPD and without BPD infants, the median serum periostin levels at birth were higher with BPD than without (345.0 ng/mL vs 278.0 ng/mL, P=0.002). Multivariate analysis revealed that serum periostin levels at birth was significantly associated with BPD (P=0.032). Receiver operating characteristic analysis for serum periostin levels at birth in infants with and without BPD revealed that the area under the curve were 0.725 (95% CI 0.627- 0.822, P=0.0001). Serum periostin levels at birth with moderate/severe BPD were significantly higher than those with non-BPD/mild BPD (338.5 ng/mL vs 283.5 ng/mL, P=0.0032).Conclusions: Serum periostin levels at birth were significantly correlated with BW and GA. Furthermore, serum periostin levels at birth could serve as a biomarker for predicting BPD.
Effect of stellate ganglion block on postoperative recovery of gastrointestinal function in patients undergoing surgery with general anaesthesia: a meta-analysis
Authors: Wen Bei , Wang Yajie , Zhang Cong , Fu Zhijian
Published: November 2020

Background: The return of gastrointestinal function is an important sign of postoperative recovery in patients undergoing surgery with general anaesthesia. We aimed to summarize the effects of stellate ganglion block on the recovery of gastrointestinal function as a means of exploring methods through which anaesthesiologists can contribute to postoperative patient recovery. Methods: We performed a quantitative systematic review of randomized controlled trials published between January 1, 1988, and November 11, 2019, in PubMed, the Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Chinese VIP Information, and the Wanfang and SinoMed databases. Study quality was assessed by using the GRADE criteria and bias of included studies were assessed using the revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials. The time to peristaltic sound resumption, flatus, postoperative eating and the incidence of abdominal bloating in the stellate ganglion block and control groups were compared. The control group consisted of either a stellate ganglion block with normal saline or no treatment. Meta-analysis was performed using Review Manager software.Results: After searching for relevant articles, 281 studies were identified, and five articles with data on 274 patients were eligible. Regarding postoperative flatus time, stellate ganglion block resulted in a mean reduction of 15 hours (P=0.02); then a sensitivity analysis was performed, and the standard mean difference decreased to 6 hours (P=0.007). For gastrointestinal surgery, the mean reduction was 23.92 hours (P=0.0002). As for the evaluation of the recovery of peristaltic sounds, stellate ganglion block promoted the recovery of regular peristaltic bowel sounds an average of 14.67 hours earlier than in the control (P=0.0008). When it comes to nutrients, stellate ganglion block shortened the total parenteral nutrition time by more than 50 hours in patients who had undergone gastrointestinal surgery (P＜0.00001). Finally, stellate ganglion block prevented the occurrence of postoperative abdominal bloating (P=0.001).) No complications related to stellate ganglion block were reported.Conclusion: Stellate ganglion block may promote postoperative gastrointestinal recovery in patients undergoing various surgeries under general anaesthesia. However, additional trials investigating the use of stellate ganglion block are necessary to confirm our finding.Trial registration: This meta-analysis has been registered at the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (registration number CRD42020157602).