bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Use of SLiMS in The Circle of School Librarians in Semarang City
Authors: Prakoso Ario Adi
Published: June 2021

Background of the study: Utilization of technology at this time is urgently needed in a job. Library is one of the jobs that requires technology. The technology used in school libraries has several types, one of which is SLiMS. SLiMS is used by librarians to build library automatic system. SLiMS users come from various generations, therefore it causes differences in the ability to use SLiMS in the circle of librarians.

Purpose: This study aims to describe the ability to use SLiMS in the circle of Semarang City school librarians by using guidelines from the theory of technology utilization.

Method: The research method uses a descriptive qualitative approach. The data collection technique was carried out by conducting observations and interviews with the Semarang City Junior High School librarians. The sample selection was done by purposive sampling method with a total sample of ten informants that are included in the X, Y and Z generations. Data analysis used in this research is descriptive analytic analysis.

Findings: The result of this research shows that the ability of the librarians to use SLiMS is different due to the differences in the way technology is used based on social factors, individual feelings, complexity, task suitability, long-term consequences, and facilitating conditions.

Conclusion: The difference in the ability to use SLiMS in Semarang Junior Librarian, can be seen from the 6 categories of technology used. From these 6 categories can improve the ability of librarians to use SLiMS or vice versa.
The correlation between skin type and acne scar severity in young adults
Authors: Awaloei Yessica Mishellin , Prastowo Nawanto Agung , Regina Regina
Published: June 2021

Background: Acne is the most common skin disorder, especially in adolescents and youths. Inflammation due to acne may leave scar tissue. The scar severity may correlate with gender and skin type. Objective: This study aims to investigate the correlation between gender, skin type, and acne scar severity in youth. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study with 132 (81 female) medical college students aged from 18 to 23 participated in the study. Skin type was assessed using a Baumann Skin Type questionnaire. Acne scar severity was evaluated using the Qualitative Global Scarring Grading. Skin examination was conducted through the image from the face photograph. Lambda test was used to confirm the correlation between gender, skin type, and acne scar severity. Multiple logistic regression was applied to determine the odd risk of gender and skin type to moderate-severe acne scar. Significance was set at p<0.05. Results: Most of the participants (80.3%) had oily skin, and 22 participants (16.7%) had moderate-severe acne scar. A weak positive correlation was confirmed between skin type and acne scar severity (p<0.01, r=0.3). Oily skin type has 4.3 times greater risk of developing more severe acne scar (p<0.01, 95%CI = 1.90-9.90). Conclusion: Skin type is correlated with acne scar severity. Oily skin type is at greater risk of developing severe acne scar.
Growth of Shorea Leprosula Seedlings Prepared in Combo Nursery Technique to Support Mine Reclamation
Authors:   Institut Pertanian Bogor, Nugroho Febrian
Published: June 2021

Combo nursery technique is a technique where seedlings/cuttings of Shorea leprosula, Gliricidia sepium, and Brachiaria decumbens grass were planted in one polybag to support mining reclamation. To reduce competition effects among the three species, optimum media and size of polybag need to be investigated. The objective of this experiment is to analyse the effect of size of polybag and media composition on the growth of S. leprosula, G. sepium, and B. decumbens grass in the combo nursery technique. The experiment used Randomised Complete Design in Factorial with two factors, i.e. media compositions (soil : compost (2 : 1, v/v), (1 : 1, v/v), (1 : 2, v/v), and soil : compost : rice husk (7:3:1, v/v/v); and size of polybag (15 x 20 cm, 20 x 20 cm, dan 25 x 25 cm). Each treatment had four replications, and each replication consisted of four polybags. The results showed no significant interaction effects between the composition of media and the size of polybag; however, media compositions of soil: compost (1:1) and (1:2), and the sizes of polybag 20 x 20 cm and 25 x 25 cm significantly eliminated competition and significantly increased the growth of S. leprosula and the number of tiller of B. decumbens grass.
Surface shortwave cloud radiative effect of cumulus and stratocumulus-cumulus cloud types in the Caribbean area (Camagüey Cuba, 2010-2016)
Authors: Barja Boris , Rosas Jorge , Cachorro Victoria Eugenia , Toledano Carlos , Antuña-Marrero Juan Carlos , Estevan Rene , de Frutos Ángel
Published: June 2021

The effects of cumulus (Cu) clouds and the combination of stratocumulus-cumulus (Sc-Cu) clouds on solar radiation at the Earth’s surface were evaluated at Camagüey, Cuba, during a 6-yr period (from June 2010 to May 2016). Two methods to calculate the cloud radiative effect (CRE) were employed. The first method (CREm) uses solar irradiances in cloudy conditions from actinometric observations, where cloud information was also reported by visual observation. In the second method (CRE0) surface solar irradiances were estimated for both cloudy and clear sky conditions using a 1-D radiative transfer model, and cloud optical depth (COD) retrieved from an AERONET sun-photometer as the main input. A temporal correspondence criterion between COD retrievals and actinometric observations was performed in order to classify the COD of each cloud type. After the application of this criterion, the COD belonging to the optically thin clouds was removed. Finally, 255 and 732 COD observations for Cu and Sc-Cu, respectively, were found. Results show a statistically significant difference at the 95% confidence level between CRE calculated for Sc-Cu and Cu, using both methods. Mean values of CREm and CRE0 for Cu (Sc-Cu) were −442 (−390) and −460 (−417) Wm–2, respectively. CRE0 shows a linear relation with ln(COD), with stronger correlation at a lower solar zenith angle. The shortwave cloud effect efficiency (CEE) for the two cloud types sharply decreases with the increase of the COD value up to 20. For larger COD, the CEE is less sensitive to the increase of COD.
Behavior of the ITCZ second band near the Peruvian coast during the 2017 coastal El Niño
Authors: Aliaga-Nestares Vannia , Rodriguez-Zimmermann Diego , Quispe-Gutiérrez Nelson
Published: June 2021

The behavior of the second band of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) near the Peruvian coast during early 2017 is studied, using precipitation, surface winds, sea surface temperature (SST) and atmospheric variables in different isobaric levels. The proposal of a daily index (Ia) to identify opportunely the formation of this band and the Lorenz energy terms in the region is also considered. This band was present from late January to early April 2017, associated with an anomalous dipole of sea level pressure between the east and west eastern Equatorial Pacific that configured anomalously northerly surface winds and the release of southeasterly trade winds near Peru. In medium levels, a zonally oriented positive mixing ratio anomaly was observed in early March over the ITCZ second band, associated with heavy rain systems over the northern Peruvian coastal region. In the same period, positive anomalies of divergence in high tropospheric levels were observed. The daily Ia index allowed an effective detection of the ITCZ second band 11 days before the maximum coastal precipitation, and the Lorenz energy terms showed eddy kinetic energy (KE) peaks in January and February and a contribution of barotropic instability in equatorial regions.
Campus Planning and Architecture: A comparative Study of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) and University of Ghana (LEGON)
Authors: Lartey Onassis , Marful Alexander Boakye
Published: June 2021

A university campus is a place full of memorable experiences and a sense of place. It is an environment that potentially creates a social and intellectual exchange of ideas and brings together diverse people. Campus planning is one essential need for any higher institution and is an instrument used for directing, promoting, and securing orderly physical development of an institution Campus planning present unique opportunities for demonstrating and popularizing contemporary tendencies in urban planning. The purpose of this study is to explore the overall concepts of the campus planning and architecture of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (Knust) And University of Ghana (Legon). The Study was based mainly on two methods; Documentary research and qualitative Observation to have in depth knowledge about the campuses. Through field observation, the study was limited to the spatial organization and planning, site layout and master planning, land use, use of space, and architectural details. The study adopts A Comparative Analysis Approach and found out that Campus Planning Concept varies and unique to campuses and in developing a campus plan, it involves a time-consuming dynamic process and besides, there are neither shortcuts nor one approach or generic solution to that. The study also revealed that Iconic and unique buildings are usually found on university campuses.
INTRACRANIAL COMPLIANCE ASSESSED BY INTRACRANIAL PRESSURE PULSE WAVEFORM
Authors: Brasil Sergio , Solla Davi , Nogueira Ricardo De Carvalho , Jacobsen Teixeira Manoel , Malbouisson Luiz Marcelo Sá , Paiva Wellingson
Published: June 2021

Background: Morphological alterations in intracranial pressure pulse waveform (ICPPW) secondary to intracranial hypertension (ICP >20 mmHg) and reduction in intracranial compliance (ICC) are well known indicators of neurological severity. To date, no studies have documented the ICPPW modifications after intracranial hypertension resolution with decompressive craniectomy (DC). The present study aimed to assess the morphological alterations in ICPPW among neurocritical care patients with and without DC, by comparing the variations of ICPPW features according to elevations in mean ICP values. Methods: Patients requiring ICP monitoring because of severe traumatic or spontaneous conditions were included. Mean ICP values were compared with ICPPW features (P2/P1 ratio, TTP and pulse amplitude). Elevation in ICP was produced by means of ultrasound-guided manual internal jugular veins compression. Results were distributed for three groups: intact skull (exclusive burr hole for ICP monitoring), craniotomy/large fractures (group 2) or DC (group 3). Results: 57 patients were analyzed. 21 (36%) presented no skull defects, whereas 15 (26%) had DC. ICP was not significantly different between groups: ±13.59 for intact and ±17.66 mmHg for DC, with ICP induced elevation also similar between groups (p= 0.56). Significant elevation was observed for P2/P1 ratio for groups 1 and 2, whereas reduction was observed in group 3 (elevation of ±0.09 for groups 1 and 2, whereas reduction of 0.03 for group 3, p=0.01). Conclusion: In the present study, intracranial pressure pulse waveform analysis indicated that intracranial compliance was significantly more impaired among decompressive craniectomy patients, although ICPPW indicated DC to be protective for further influences of ICP elevations over the brain. Analysis of ICPPW seems to be an alternative to real time ICC assessment.
FLOUTING MAXIM ON UTTERANCE OF CHARACTERS IN "ANAK NEGERI (KISAH MASA KECIL GANJAR PRANOWO)" MOVIE
Authors: Febriyanti Rina Husnaini
Published: June 2021

Implicature utterance that was introduced by Grice and his categorization on maxims those are quantity, quality, relevance, and manner seem interested to be studied, as the aim of this study is to find out the flouting of Grice maxims. The Method used was qualitive and data was collected from the utterances of the characters in "Anak Negeri (Kisah Masa Kecil Ganjar Pranowo)" Movie afterwards the data were categorized based on flouting maxims then displayed into percentage and reflected involved the reasons of those flouting maxims. Next, it was analyzed and presented in description explanation. The results found that the most flouting occurred is flouting of maxim quantity that is 46% where there are several reasons, they are in order to convince, to elaborate, to permit, and to empathy. And in the same time, the flouting of maxim relevance is not too far with quantity that is 41% with the purpose of using these flouting maxims are to inform, to give idea, to ask back, to calm down, to wonder, and to complement. Flouting of maxim quality is 5% and the reason found is to explain, while flouting of maxim manner is 5% too and the reason was to ask meaning. In other words, those flouting maxims occur, it must have a purpose, and depend on the context where this study is viewed in pragmatics perspective.

Keywords: Flouting Grice Maxims, flouting maxim of quality, flouting maxim of quantity, flouting maxim of relevance, flouting maxim of manner
Peramalan Jumlah Penduduk Kabupaten Semarang dengan Metode Box-Jenkins
Authors: Emma Novita Sari  , Tundjung Mahatma
Published: June 2021

Peramalan merupakan ilmu atau teknik untuk menduga suatu nilai pada waktu yang akan datang menggunakan referensi data di masa lalu dan data saat ini. Peramalan jumlah penduduk Kabupaten Semarang sangat diperlukan karena data jumlah penduduk sering dijadikan sebagai dasar untuk perencanaan maupun sasaran pembangunan di waktu yang akan datang. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui hasil peramalan jumlah penduduk Kabupaten Semarang tahun 2020 – 2025 dengan metode Box-Jenkins. Data yang digunakan adalah data jumlah penduduk Kabupaten Semarang tahun 1989 – 2019. Data tersebut dapat dimodelkan dengan model Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA). Setelah dianalisis, model terbaik yang didapatkan adalah model ARIMA(2,1,1). Hasil peramalan jumlah penduduk Kabupaten Semarang untuk tahun 2020 sampai dengan 2025 berturut-turut sebesar 1.064.529 jiwa, 1.075.971 jiwa, 1.086.606 jiwa, 1.097.182 jiwa, 1.107.346 jiwa, dan 1.117.284 jiwa.
Analisis Angka Kelahiran pada Remaja Indonesia Usia 15-19 Menggunakan Regresi Binomial Negatif
Authors: Silvia  , Tangyong Geraldine Immanuel , Widyaningsih Yekti
Published: June 2021

Menurut BKKBN, angka kelahiran untuk perempuan usia remaja terbilang cukup tinggi. Hal ini perlu menjadi perhatian khusus, karena jumlah remaja di Indonesia sangat besar dan pada umur 15-19 tahun seseorang seharusnya masih dalam proses mengenyam pendidikan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui faktor-faktor yang memengaruhi angka kelahiran perempuan umur 15-19 tahun pada tahun 2012 berdasarkan provinsi di Indonesia. Faktor-faktor dalam penelitian ini adalah Indeks Pembangunan Manusia (IPM) menurut provinsi, tingkat pengangguran terbuka (dalam persen) menurut provinsi, jumlah penduduk miskin menurut provinsi, angka melek huruf, dan rata-rata lama sekolah. Penelitian ini menggunakan analisis regresi Poisson, khususnya regresi binomial negatif. Hasil pengujian menunjukkan bahwa data mengalami overdispersi. Untuk mengatasi kondisi ini digunakan regresi Binomial Negatif. Faktor yang berpengaruh signifikan terhadap angka kelahiran pada perempuan berumur 15-19 tahun adalah angka melek huruf, rata-rata lama sekolah, dan jumlah penduduk miskin.
Limited Evidence for Biological Adjuvants in Hindfoot Arthrodesis
Authors: Seow Dexter , Yasui Youichi , Dankert John F. , Miyamoto Wataru , Calder James D.F. , Kennedy John G.
Published: June 2021

Background:

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of biological adjuvants in patients managed with hindfoot arthrodesis.

Methods:

A systematic review of the PubMed and Embase databases was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines with use of specific search terms and eligibility criteria. Assessment of evidence was threefold: level of evidence by criteria as described in The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery, quality of evidence according to the Newcastle-Ottawa scale, and conflicts of interest. Meta-analysis was performed with fixed-effects models for studies of low heterogeneity (I2 < 25%) and with random-effects models for studies of moderate to high heterogeneity (I2 ≥ 25%).

Results:

A total of 1,579 hindfeet were recruited across all studies, and 1,527 hindfeet were recorded as having completed treatment and follow-up visits. The duration of follow-up ranged from 2.8 to 43 months. Twelve of the 17 included studies comprised patients with comorbidities associated with reduced healing capacity. Based on the random-effects model for nonunion rates for autograft versus allograft, the risk ratio was 0.82 (95% CI, 0.13 to 5.21; I2 = 56%; p = 0.83) in favor of lower nonunion rates for autograft. Based on the random-effects model for rhPDGF/β-TCP versus autograft, the risk ratio was 0.90 (95% CI, 0.74 to 1.10; I2 = 59%; p = 0.30) in favor of lower nonunion rates for rhPDGF/β-TCP.

Conclusions:

There is a lack of data to support the meaningful use of biological adjuvants as compared with autograft/allograft for hindfoot arthrodesis. The meta-analysis favored the use of autograft when compared with allograft but favored rhPDGF/β-TCP when compared with autograft in the short term.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Pediatric Orthopaedic Observerships in North America for International Surgeons
Authors: Carrillo Laura A. , Sabharwal Sanjeev
Published: June 2021

Background:

Despite recommendations for high-income countries to partner with low-income and middle-income countries to expand surgical access, little is known about the barriers that are faced by international surgeons (ISs) who participate in short-term clinical observerships in North America and the barriers that are encountered by their North American (NA) hosts.

Methods:

Surveys were distributed to ISs who participated in a pediatric orthopaedic observership in North America in 2009 to 2019 and their NA hosts to assess the perceived barriers that are faced by both partners and identify possible opportunities for improvement.

Results:

Responses were received from 181 ISs and 46 NA hosts. The ISs reported facing a variety of barriers prior to, during, and after completion of their NA observerships, including financial burden, language and cultural barriers, and challenges with local accommodations and transportation. Only 49% of ISs reported that their NA hosts had sought feedback from them. Barriers noted by the NA hosts included financial burden, logistical challenges with hosting, language barriers, and lack of support from their co-faculty/staff. At least 43% of NA hosts reported that their observership program was unfunded. Based on the survey responses, potential areas that may enhance the observership experience include funding support, creating a centralized data bank of pediatric subspecialty opportunities that are available at each sponsoring institution, a pre-visit orientation for the visiting surgeon, improving inclusivity by addressing language and cultural barriers, improving access to observing surgical procedures, obtaining post-visit feedback, and creating a virtual community of international visitors and NA hosts for an ongoing exchange of ideas and resources.

Conclusions:

The ISs who participated in a pediatric orthopaedic clinical observership and their NA hosts identified limited funding as a major barrier. There are several opportunities for enhancing this unique learning experience and exploring the role of contextual remote learning for all participants. Additional studies are needed to investigate the value of clinical observerships for ISs, including the downstream impact of such opportunities on capacity-building, bidirectional learning, and improving patient care.
Implementing Evidence-Based Task Strengthening Strategies for Hypertension Control within Ghana’s Community-Based Health Planning Services: A Concept Mapping Analysis
Authors: Nyame Solomon , Iwelunmor Juliet , Asante Kwaku Poku , Gyamfi Joyce , Adjei Kwame , Apusiga Kingsley , Onakomaiya Deborah , Adjei Kezia Gladys Amaning , Aifah Angela , Plange-Rhule Jacob , Ogedegbe Gbenga
Published: June 2021

Background: As efforts are made to systematically implement an evidence-based task-strengthening strategy for hypertension control (TASSH) in Ghana, understanding their content can help national, regional and district health stakeholders within Ghana’s Health Services (GHS) identify strategies for enhancing intervention uptake and sustainability in their local context. This study sought to describe national, regional and district health stakeholders’ perspectives and characterize the array of strategies needed to enhance the uptake of evidence-based TASSH within Ghana’s Community-based Health and Planning Services (CHPS) zones. Methods: This qualitative study was conducted among national, regional and district health stakeholders within GHS serving patients who utilize CHPS zones. The CHPS initiative is Ghana’s flagship strategy for achieving universal health coverage. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 22 national, regional and district health stakeholders identified via purposive sampling. Interviews were conducted in 2018. Data analysis was conducted between July 2019 and December 2019. Data was analyzed using group concept mapping systems to identify major themes and subthemes.Results: About 68 % of participants were male with mean age of 40 years and mean years of experience providing hypertension-related care within GHS of 9 years. A conceptual map emerged, consisting of 46 strategies needed for implementing evidence-based TASSH, organized into 6 clusters: 1) Referral Systems; 2) Availability of Equipment; 3) Protocols and Guidelines; 4) Capacity Building/Training; 5) Policy Reform, and 6) Technical Support and Supervision. Availability of equipment was rated as the most important strategy (mean 4.80 out of 5) needed to implement evidence-based TASSH, while Capacity Building/Training was rated as the most feasible strategy (mean 4.20 out of 5) to address. Although important (mean 4.40 out of 5), Policy reform was rated as the least important and feasible strategy to address. Conclusions: These findings demonstrate strategies that can help inform future interventions focused on the adoption and sustainability of evidence-based TASSH within Ghana’s CHPS zones. Also, national, regional and district health stakeholders can support healthcare workers by facilitating access to equipment and strategies for enhancing capacity and training with implementing evidence-based task-shifting hypertension interventions in Ghana.
Determinants of life satisfaction and self-rated health in Iranian children and adolescents: A structure equation model
Authors: Angoorani Pooneh , Mahmoodi Zohreh , Ejtahed Hanieh-Sadat , Heshmat Ramin , Motlagh Mohammad Esmaeil , Qorbani Mostafa , Kelishadi Roya
Published: June 2021

Background
Life satisfaction (LS) and self-rated health (SRH) are related with health outcomes. It is expected that these items are also related to healthy behaviors. Therefore, this study was conducted in order to find out the main determinants of LS and SRH in nationwide representative sample of Iranian children and adolescents.
Methods
This study was performed on 13834 students aged 7–18 years who were selected by multistage, stratified cluster sampling method from 30 provinces of Iran. LS and SRH were assessed through a questionnaire based on World Health Organization-Global School-based Student Health Survey protocols. Path analysis was applied to evaluate the relationships among the study variables using the structural modeling.
Results
LS was directly affected by age (-0.037 in boys & -0.028 in girls); sedentary time (0.055 in boys & 0.048 in girls); school satisfaction (0.249 in boys & 0.250 in girls); and well-being (0.186 in boys & 0.176 in girls). SRH was directly affected by LS (0.28 in boys & girls) and school satisfaction (0.21 in boys & 0.22 in girls); and indirectly affected by age (-0.046 in boys & -0.017 in girls); sedentary time (-1.99 in boys & -0.145 in girls); family size (-0.005 in boys & -0.014 in girls); and socio-economic status (0.015 in boys & 0.058 in girls).
Conclusions
This study indicated that school satisfaction had the greatest positive direct effect on both LS and SRH.
Generalized Hukuhara-Clarke Derivative of Interval-valued Functions and its Properties
Authors: Chauhan Ram Surat , Ghosh Debdas , Ramik Jaroslav , Debnath Amit Kumar
Published: June 2021

This paper is devoted to the study of gH-Clarke derivative for interval-valued functions. To develop the properties of gH-Clarke derivative, the concepts of limit superior, limit inferior, and sublinear interval-valued functions are studied in the sequel. It is proved that the upper gH-Clarke derivative of a gH-Lipschitz continuous interval- valued function (IVF) always exists. Further, it is found that for a convex and gH-Lipschitz IVF, the upper gH-Clarke derivative coincides with the gH-directional derivative. It is observed that the upper gH-Clarke derivative is a sublinear IVF. Several numerical examples are provided to support the study.
OCT- A Characteristics of Neovascular Membranes in Wet AMD- Possible Correlation to the Prognosis.
Authors: Vidinova Christina N. , Antonova Dafina P. , Guguchkova Pravoslava T. , Vidinov Kalin N.
Published: June 2021

OCT-A i a new imaging modality that provides the opportunity for noninvasive characterization and quantification of the microvasculature in wet AMD.Purpose: The purpose of our study is to outline the different OCT- A characteristics of neovascular membranes in AMD in regard to their correlation with the effect of treatment and prognosis.Methods: In our prospective study 42 patients with wet AMD were enrolled. They were divided in 3 groups: 25 with Type 1 membranes (under RPE), 11 patients with Type 2 membranes and 6 with Type 3 – RAP lesions. They all underwent a complete ophthalmological examination including VA, fundus photography, structural OCT (Rtvue, Optovue) and OCT-A (Angiophlex, Zeiss). All of the patients were treated with aflibercept (Eylea) - 3 injections. They all were evaluated after the third injection.Results: In the group of patients with type 1 CNV usually a medusa shaped neovascular complex with afferent vessel, originating in the choroid was observed on the OCT-A. In 9 cases the vessels were very rough and larger than in the general group. The type 2 CNV we visualized a neovascular network that grows from the choroid vasculature traverses the RPE- Bruch’s membrane complex into the subretinal space. These structures usually had glomeruli like shape. Type 3 CNV is seen on OCT-A as retinal-choroid anastomoses originating in the deep capillary plexus of the retina. The majority of patients improved VA and retinal thickness after the application of Eylea. Only in 9 cases no change was seen. Those were mainly cases with Type 1 CNV and with larger caliber of the vessels.Conclusion: OCT angiography is a new imaging modality capable of revealing the morphological structure of Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3 neovascularization in exudative AMD. Visualizing the microarchitecture of the CNV membrane offers the prospect to evaluate the possible responses to therapy. Our results indicate that type 1 lesions, composed of a greater proportion of larger, mature vessels are less responsive to anti-VEGF therapy and are with poor prognosis.
Hepatitis B Virus Covalently Closed Circular DNA Interacting HBx and HBc Proteins Global Conservancy Analysis and Related B or T lymphocyte Epitopes
Authors: Saeed Umar , Piracha Zahra Zahid , Uppal Rizwan
Published: June 2021

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Imaging and health metrics in Incidental Cerebellar Tonsillar Ectopia: Findings from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study (ABCD)
Authors: Nwotchouang Blaise Simplice Talla , Ibrahimy Alaaddin , Loth Dorothy M. , Labuda Edward , Labuda Nicholas , Eppleheimer Maggie , Labuda Richard , Bapuraj Jayapalli Rajiv , Allen Philip A. , Klinge Petra , Loth Francis
Published: June 2021

Purpose.
Incidental cerebellar tonsillar ectopia (ICTE) that meets the radiographic criterion for Chiari malformation type I (CMI) is an increasingly common finding in the clinical setting, but its significance is unclear. The present study examined posterior cranial fossa (PCF) morphometrics and a broad range of health instruments of pediatric ICTE cases and matched controls extracted from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) dataset.
Methods.
106 subjects with ICTE and 106 matched controls without ICTE were identified from 11,411 anatomical MRI of healthy screened pediatric subjects from the ABCD project. Subjects were matched by sex, age, body mass index, race, and ethnicity. Twenty-two brain morphometrics and 22 health instruments were compared between the two groups to identify unrecognized CMI symptoms and assess the general health impact of ICTE.
Results.
Twelve and 15 measures were significantly different between the ICTE and control groups for females and males, respectively. Notably, for females, the anterior CSF space was significantly smaller (p = 0.00005) for the ICTE group than controls. For males, the clivus bone length was significantly shorter (p = 0.0002) for the ICTE group compared to controls. No significant differences were found among the 22 health instruments between the two groups.
Conclusion.
This study demonstrated that pediatric ICTE subjects have similar PCF morphometrics to adult CMI. ICTE alone did not appear to cause any unrecognized CMI symptoms and had no impact on the subjects' current mental, physical, or behavioral health. Still, given their cranial and brain morphology, these cases may be at risk for adult-onset symptomatic CMI.
Prevalence and risk factors of asthma among 6-12-year-old schoolchildren in a metropolitan environment – a cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study
Authors: Molnár Dávid , Gálffy Gabriella , Horváth Alpár , Tomisa Gábor , Katona Gábor , Hirschberg Andor , Mezei Györgyi , Sultész Monika
Published: June 2021

Background A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted in primary schools located in the capital of Hungary. We aimed to evaluate the prevalence of asthma and its risk factors within a 6-12-year-old population.Methods After meeting selection criteria, 3836 eligible parent-reported questionnaires were evaluated. The survey included the ISAAC phase three core questions for asthma and assessed the association with other atopic conditions and various environmental, lifestyle and nutritional risk factors.Results Cumulative asthma had a prevalence of 12.6% among the sampled population, with a girl-boy percentage of 37.4–62.6%. The proximity of any air-polluting factories, heavy-vehicle traffic and weedy area associated with greater risk for asthma while a suburban residence showed lesser odds (odds ratios were 1.3319, 1.2883, 1.3939 and 0.6390 respectively). Indoor smoking, visible mould, and keeping a dog were defined as risk factors for asthma (odds ratios: 1.6509, 2.1282, 1.4362), while the presence of a plant in the bedroom and pet rodents associated with lower odds ratios (0.7884, 0.7231 respectively). The consumption of fast food, beverages containing additives and margarine were significantly higher in asthmatics (odds ratios 1.7488, 1.2669, 1.3549), while we found frequent sport activity (0.6883) and cereal intake (0.5403) had favorable odds ratios for asthma.Conclusions Some of the obtained results have confirmed the outcomes of previous similar epidemiological studies, while in other cases, differences were found. These differences could have been a natural consequence of regional variability and other undiscovered factors; however, the correct evaluation of these controversial results require further investigation in the future. The current data can serve as a milestone for a prospective trial. Having the findings of this study, we can articulate recommendations for the public regarding the most common risk factors of asthma that should be avoided at home and in our surroundings and how to transform our daily habits for a prosperous future.
Two-Parameter Dynamics of An Autonomous Mechanical Governor System With Time Delay
Authors: Deng Shuning , Ji Jinchen , Wen Guilin , Xu Huidong
Published: June 2021

Understanding of dynamical behavior in the parameter-state space plays a vital role in the optimal design and motion control of mechanical governor systems. By combining the GPU parallel computing technique with two determinate indicators, namely, the Lyapunov exponents and Poincaré section, this paper presents a detailed study on the two-parameter dynamics of a mechanical governor system with different time delays. By identifying different system responses in two-parameter plane, it is shown that the complexity of evolutionary process can increase significantly with the increase of time delay. The path-following strategy and the time domain collocation method are used to explore the details of the evolutionary process. An interesting phenomenon is found in the dynamical behavior of the delayed governor system, which can cause the inconsistency between the number of intersection points of certain periodic response on Poincaré section and the actual period characteristic. For example, the commonly exhibited period-1 orbit may have two or more intersection points on the Poincaré section instead of one point. Furthermore, the variations of basins of attraction are also discussed in the plane of initial history conditions to demonstrate the observed multistability phenomena and chaotic transitions.
Fabrication of silver helix microstructures in a large area
Authors: Tsutsumi Naoto , Takai Yusaku , Kinashi Kenji , Sakai Wataru
Published: June 2021

The fabrication of metamaterials working in the wavelength region from visible to infrared is very attractive for beam treatment toward negative refraction and beyond the diffraction limit. The two photon absorption direct laser writing (TPA-DLW) method is a powerful tool to fabricate metamaterials with compact, dense, intricate, and periodic microstructures on the micrometer and submicrometer scales and is sensitive in the wavelength region from visible to infrared. In this study, large-area helix microstructures intended for metamaterials were fabricated using a negative photoresist, SU-8. To stabilize the fabricated free-standing helix microstructures with a 1 µm radius, circular foundations with a radius of 1.3 µm and elevation angle of 10, 12, or 14 ° were built in advance. The foundation is useful to avoid collapsing the helix microstructures. Due to the useful foundation, over 18,000 helical structures were fabricated in a large area. The obtained helical structures have the potential for metamaterials to control the handedness of a circularly polarized infrared beam.
The Influence of the Multi-level Structure Under High Drawing on the Preparation of High Strength Lyocell Fiber
Authors: Cui Shiqiang , Zhang Yang , Liu Changjun , Lou Shanhao , Zhang Yue , Zhang Yumei , Wang Huaping
Published: June 2021

In order to research the multi-level structure of Lyocell fiber at different draw ratios and to reveal the limiting factors for preparing the high strength Lyocell fiber, the paper reports on the effect of draw ratio including low drawing (1–5), high drawing (6–11) and excessive drawing (12–20) on the multi-level structure and the mechanical properties of Lyocell fiber. The structure was determined by wide-angle X-ray diffraction, small-angle X-ray scattering and fibrillation test, and the result showed that, at low draw ratio stage, the breaking strength, yield strength and modulus of the fiber increased with the draw ratio owing to crystallinity as well as orientation increased while the micropore decreased, and there are almost no microfibrils on the fiber surface. At high draw ratio stage, the orientation of amorphous region increasing was the principal reason for the increase of fiber mechanical properties, and the micropores continued to decrease and a few short and thick microfibril was formed. At excessive draw ratio stage, the breaking strength remained constant mainly due to the basically unchanged crystallinity and orientation of the fibers, the yield strength and modulus decreased due to the slip of the highly crystallized and oriented elementary fibril. Meanwhile, the micropores still decreased and became much slenderer, the number of microfibrils increased and the microfibrils showed tenuous structure. It could be summarized that Lyocell fiber had the characteristics of multi-level structure, and the fundamental reason limiting the improvement of mechanical properties with draw ratio increase was the slip of elementary fibril.
Pre-engraftment clinically significant CMV infection after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and its impact on engraftment
Authors: Garnica Marcia , Dalcolmo Sylvia , Gaio Bianca , Almeida Andreia , Rivello Juliana , Bigni Ricardo , Valentim Marcia Rejane , Moreira Maria Claudia , Maiolino Angelo
Published: June 2021

Pre-engraftment cytomegalovirus infection (CMVi) is a challenge in patients receiving allogeneic stem cell transplantation (Allo-HCT), as few data have been reported on its clinical importance. This study describes the clinical outcomes of pre-engraftment CMVi and compares them with those of episodes developing after engraftment in HCT patients. We performed a retrospective study of patients who underwent Allo-HCT from 2016 to 2020, including 111 recipients monitored by real-time PCR assay. Clinically significant CMVi (csCMVi) was documented in 81 (73%) patients. There were 29 (26%) cases of pre-engraftment csCMVi. No significant difference was observed regarding virological features, but patients with pre-engraftment csCMVi had a delayed start in treatment (24 vs. 12 days, p < 0.001) compared with those with postengraftment events. Pre-engraftment csCMVi was associated with a delay in engraftment (20 vs. 16 days, p = 0.02) and worse overall survival (54% vs. 73% 1-year OS; p = 0.020) than postengraftment events. In conclusion, pre-engraftment csCMVi occurred in 26% of our patients and was associated with engraftment delay and worse overall survival. Close monitoring of CMV DNAemia is necessary to identify these patients earlier. Prospective studies, including patients with letermovir prophylaxis, are necessary to define the standard in the management and care of this population.
Appropriate Referral Timing To Specialized Palliative Care Service: Survey of Bereaved Families of Cancer Patients Who Died in Palliative Care Units
Authors: Tagami Keita , Masukawa Kento , Inoue Akira , Morita Tatsuya , Hiratsuka Yusuke , Sato Mamiko , Kohata Katsura , Satake Noriaki , Kizawa Yoshiyuki , Tsuneto Satoru , Shima Yasuo , Miyashita Mitsunori
Published: June 2021

Few studies have investigated appropriate referral timing of specialized palliative care (SPC) from the perspective of cancer patients’ and families’ experiences. We aimed to clarify appropriate SPC referral timing for patients with advanced cancer and their families. We used data from a nationwide bereaved family survey in Japan. We sent a questionnaire to 999 bereaved families of cancer patients who died in 164 palliative care units (PCUs) and analyzed the first SPC referral timing and how patients evaluated it. We defined SPC as outpatient or inpatient palliative care service comprising certified palliative care physicians, advanced-practice nurses, and multidisciplinary practitioners. Finally, 51.6% (n = 515) of all responses were analyzed. The SPC referral timing was evaluated as appropriate (26.1%), late or too late (20.2%), early or too early (1.2%), and none of these (52.5%). Of these, 32.3% reported that they were referred to an SPC when diagnosed with advanced or incurable cancer or during anti-cancer treatment, and 62.6% reported they were referred after anti-cancer treatment. Patient-perceived appropriateness of SPC referral timing was associated with their good death process. After excluding “none of these” responses, a significantly higher proportion of respondents who reported being referred to SPC at diagnosis and during anti-cancer treatment evaluated the response timing as appropriate, compared to those who reported being referred after anti-cancer treatment. Appropriate timing for SPC referrals relates to quality of death; findings suggest that appropriate timing is at the time of diagnosis or during anti-cancer treatment.
Households’ Willingness to Pay For The Rehabilitation of Wetlands: Evidence From Gudera Wetland, Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Asmare Erkie , Bekele Ketema , Fentaw Saleamlak
Published: June 2021

Although Gudera wetland is known for its multi-functionality, it is at the edge of collapse at this time. The study was initiated to estimate households’ mean willingness to pay (WTP) for the rehabilitation of the wetland and its welfare gains from the intervention. It was also aimed to identify major determinants for the wetland rehabilitation intervention. To meet these objectives, data from 237 rural households were collected using two stage random sampling procedures. Econometric models such as, seemingly unrelated bivariate probit and double hurdle models were used to estimate mean WTP and determinants of WTP, respectively. The result shows that the mean WTP values from double bounded dichotomous choice ranges from 70.44 to 80.64 Ethiopian Birr per year per household. Therefore, the aggregated welfare gain expected from the rehabilitation intervention ranges from 2,033,180 to 2,327,593 Ethiopian Birr per year. Factors such as farm income, participation in natural resource conservation, frequency of extension contact and trust on budget allocation have a positive and significant effect on the households’ WTP. While, factors such as land size around the wetland, distance to the wetland and credit have a negative influence on households’ WTP. Thus, critical consideration of such factors is pertinent to increase the level of public support towards the rehabilitation intervention.
A Report From The NIHR UK Working Group On Remote Trial Delivery For The COVID-19 Pandemic and Beyond
Authors: Masoli Jane , Hudson Sharon , O’Brien John T , Williamson James D , Young Carolyn A. , Carroll Camille B
Published: June 2021

BackgroundPrior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the majority of clinical trial activity took place face to face within clinical or research units. The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a significant shift towards trial delivery without in person face to face contact or “Remote Trial Delivery”. The National Institute of Health Research (NIHR) assembled a Remote Trial Delivery Working Group to consider challenges and enablers to this major change in clinical trial delivery and to provide a toolkit for researchers to support the transition to remote delivery. MethodsThe NIHR Remote Trial Delivery Working Group evaluated five key domains of the trial delivery pathway: participant factors, recruitment, intervention delivery, outcome measurement and quality assurance. Independent surveys were disseminated to research professionals, and patients and carers, to ascertain benefits, challenges, pitfalls, enablers and examples of good practice in Remote Trial Delivery. A toolkit was constructed to support researchers, funders and governance structures in moving towards Remote Trial Delivery. The toolkit comprises a website encompassing the key principles of Remote Trial Delivery, and a repository of best practice examples and questions to guide research teams. ResultsThe patient and carer survey received 47 respondents, 34 of whom were patients and 13 of whom were carers. The professional survey had 115 examples of remote trial delivery practice entered from across England. Key potential benefits included broader reach and inclusivity, the ability for standardisation and centralisation, and increased efficiency and patient/carer convenience. Challenges included the potential exclusion of participants lacking connectivity or digital skills, the lack of digitally skilled workforce and appropriate infrastructure, and validation requirements. Five key principles of Remote Trial Delivery were proposed: national research standards, inclusivity, validity, cost-effectiveness and evaluation of new methodologies.ConclusionsThe rapid changes towards Remote Trial Delivery catalysed by the COVID-19 pandemic could lead to sustained change in clinical trial delivery. The NIHR Remote Trial Delivery Working Group provide a toolkit for researchers recommending five key principles of Remote Trial Delivery and providing examples of enablers.
An In-Vivo Model For Overloading-Induced Soft Tissue Injury
Authors: Chatzistergos Panagiotis , Chockalingam Nachiappan
Published: June 2021

This proof-of-concept study demonstrates that repetitive loading to the pain threshold can safely recreate overloading-induced soft tissue damage and that localised tissue stiffening can be used as a marker for injury. This concept was demonstrated here for the soft tissue of the sole of the foot where it was found that repeated loading to the pain threshold led to long-lasting statistically significant stiffening in the areas where pressure was most intense. Loading at lower magnitudes did not have the same effect. This method can shed new light on the aetiology of overloading injury in the foot to improve the management of conditions such as diabetic foot ulceration and heel pain syndrome. At the same time, the presented concept can also enable the direct assessment of subject-specific thresholds for overloading in other soft tissues which are sensitive to pain, accessible for imaging and can be loaded in a clinically relevant manner.
Dynamic Linkage amongst Oil, Gold, Exchange Rates and Stock Markets in Africa: Evidence from Volatility of Major African Economies
Authors: Mhlongo Thabani H , Olaomi John Olutunji
Published: June 2021

In this work, we study whether the price fluctuations amongst exchange rates, stock and commodities markets are dynamically influentially linked and dependent within African economies, as there is a dearth of literature on this subject. The study models monthly price changes amongst these markets between the years 2000 and 2019 using a copula based DCC GARCH framework for a sample of twenty highest ranked African economies by nominal GDP. The results show evidence of time varying co-movement amongst these markets that tend to increase during times of turbulence in sampled markets. Dynamic relations are found to be quantitatively and relatively substantial for economies of Egypt, South Africa, Tanzania, Libya and Zambia. The results from this study would improve the risk management decisions by investment managers, individual investors and investment regulators.