bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fulfilling the Democratic Mission of the Community College Through Student Civic Engagement
Authors: Englert-Copeland Jennifer
Published: July 2021

Community colleges are inherently democratizing institutions. Through their open access policies, immersion in their local communities, and mission of preparing students for transfer or the workforce, they are positioned to produce graduates who have the skills to become change agents in their communities. Incorporating civic engagement within the community college setting often presents steep challenges as a result of funding models, a national narrow-focus on completion and credential production, and the barriers their own students face. Yet despite these challenges, community colleges across the country are increasingly focusing on methods of encouraging the civic engagement of their students and are participating in high-impact practices. Research confirms that students who are engaged civically do better academically. By assessing their civic programming, community colleges can shine light on the value of civic engagement as a fundamental outcome of a community college education. Only then will these institutions fully realize their mission as America's democracy colleges.
Empowering Students to Fight the Power
Authors: Tucker Travis , Hilterbrand Nat J.
Published: July 2021

The mobilization of social movements within a higher education context have long been connected to one another, from the formation of the Civil Rights Movement to the recent protests over George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery in 2020. While these movements have commonalities with one another, they also have changed with the times, which include social media outlets offering new ways for people to engage. This chapter will introduce and explore the relationships between social media, activism, allyship, and identity in higher education today. The authors provide working definitions and examples of each concept to build understanding and highlight its importance to the overall chapter. They then leave the reader with a set of reflection questions to consider how these key concepts have shown up in their work with students.
A Review on Sleep Disorder Analysis and Applications Based on Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Mathew Ammu Anna , S. Vivekanandan
Published: July 2021

The recent developments in multi-modular sensor technology for analyzing physiological and psychological activities have brought a breakthrough in the biomedical engineering thereby aiding the real-time monitoring of various vital signals. The monitoring of circadian rhythms and EEG signals keeps a proper observation on sleep and analyzes various sleep disorders. The sleep patterns related to disease and wellness applications can be analyzed with the help of multi-sensor-generated data. Several challenges such as performance evaluation, data storage, processing and integration, modeling, and interpretation as well as curation are to be overcome in this field for expansion of this technology in the future. The digitalization of sleep is an interdisciplinary field of research incorporating neuroscience, bioengineering, epidemiology, clinical medicine, computer science, and electrical engineering. This chapter discusses various sleep disorders, AI, analysis, and applications available. Finally, the challenges and future scope are also discussed followed by the conclusion.
Investigation of Epileptic Seizures and Sleep Disturbance
Authors: V. S. Bharath , F. Miraclin , Priyanka Bhanu , K. P. Bharath , M. Rajesh Kumar
Published: July 2021

In this chapter, the authors make use of signal processing techniques and machine learning models to analyze the EEG signal. First, the EEG signal is broken down into the frequency sub-bands using a discrete wavelet transform (DWT). Then the kernel principle component analysis (KPCA) method is used to reduce the dimension of data. They input these extracted features into a neural network to find if the patient has an epileptic seizure or not. The results of the classification process due to artificial neural networks (ANN) are studied and analyzed. Also, to recognize the abnormal activities in the EEG signal, caused by changes in neuronal electrochemical activity in epileptic patients, the EEG signal is processed using the Hilbert Huang transform (HHT). Given the wide array of epilepsy, we need to make use of intelligent devices in the treatment of epilepsy by using the patient's neurophysiology for better diagnosis before the clinical operation.
Medical Signal Processing
Authors: S. Vidhya , Nageswaran Sharmila
Published: July 2021

This chapter introduces sleep, the pattern of sleep, wakefulness, disorders associated with sleep, diseases of heart and lungs that can be identified by analysing one's sleep. Sleep is generally equated to the neurological system and the brain. It is believed that sleep can be identified only with EEG. This chapter also explores the usage of EEG in detecting the disorders associated with sleep, and more emphasis is given to the bio signals other than EEG, which includes ECG, PPG, acoustic signals that can be used in understanding the sleep and its related disorders. It explains the biomedical devices that are used for sleep-related studies. This chapter explores the stages of sleep signal processing where the authors have suggested how to reduce noises at the stage of data acquisition. Further topics explore various signal processing methods that need to be adapted in various stages, namely preprocessing, filtering, feature extraction, validation, and automated processing.
Classification of Sleep Apnea Using ECG Signals With Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: R. Karthik , Alam Ifrah , Umamadhuri Bandaru , K. P. Bharath , M. Rajesh Kumar
Published: July 2021

In this chapter, the authors use various signal processing techniques to analyze and gain insights on how ECG signals for patients suffering from sleep apnea (sleep apnea or obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the muscles that support the soft tissues in the throat, such as tongue and soft palate, relax temporarily) disease vary with respect to a normal person's ECG. The work has three stages: firstly, to identify waves, complexes, morphology in an ECG which reflect the presence of the disease; second, feature extraction techniques to extract features of ECG such as duration of the wave, amplitude distribution, and morphology classes; and third, detailed clustering (unsupervised) algorithm analysis of the extracted features with efficient feature reduction methodologies such as PCA and LDA. Finally, the authors use supervised machine learning algorithms (SVM, naive Bayes classifier, feed forward neural network, and decision tree) to distinguish between ECG signals with sleep apnea and normal ECG signals.
CSR in the Tourism Industry
Authors: Marin-Pantelescu Andreea
Published: July 2021

CSR in the tourism industry aims to bring to the fore social responsibility initiatives. The decline in the first 10 months of the year 2020 represents 900 million fewer international tourist arrivals compared to the same period of the year 2019, and translates into a loss of US$ 935 billion in export revenues from international tourism. According to the World Tourism Organization, international arrivals will drop by 75% in 2020. This would mean that international tourism has returned to the levels of 30 years ago. In order to restore tourism, extensive social responsibility campaigns involving stakeholders should be launched. The main stakeholders in the tourism industry carry out social responsibility campaigns that take into account employees, guests, the environment, and the local communities. Environmental protection, fair working conditions for employees, and contributing to the welfare of local communities are key issues in the strategies of international tourism corporations and will be explored in the chapter on CSR in the tourism industry.
Top Seven Trends in Management Accounting
Authors: Cokins Gary
Published: July 2021

Ultimately, costing principles, such as the causality principle, must be converted into practical practices with supporting tools. This chapter describes how cost modeling has evolved over the last century. It describes the trends and obstacles that have helped or delayed developments. These evolving areas and trends include (1) the expansion from product costing to include channel and customer profitability reporting and analysis, (2) the integration of managerial accounting with other enterprise and corporate performance management (EPM/CPM) methods, (3) the shift from historical reporting to predictive accounting (e.g., marginal/incremental costing, (4) driver-based budgeting and rolling financial forecasts, (5) customer lifetime value (CLV), (6) imbedding analytics into managerial accounting (e.g., correlation and regression analysis), (7) acceptance of two or more co-existing managerial accounting methods, and (8) chargebacks to internal users and service-level agreements of information technology (IT) and shared services.
Critical Comprehensive Study of Big Data Analytics Management
Authors: Huda Mahfuzul , Habib Mohamed I , Khan Mohammad Zubair , Aziz Abdullah Abdul
Published: July 2021

Big data helps drive quality, customize many services, satisfy clients, and increase profit in business organizations. This chapter discusses advanced analytical strategies, together with the data classification, multivariate and regression analysis on interpreting the text analysis and specific data management technologies and many tools that scientifically support advanced data analytics management with big data knowledge. This work also highlighted the deliverables, converting degree associate analytics project to associate degree in progress quality of a data organization's management operation, and making helpful, clear, and visual analytical outputs supported on the basis of actionable knowledge.
Social Media Content Analysis and Classification Using Data Mining and ML
Authors: Rane Sambhaji D.
Published: July 2021

Students' natural conversations on social media such as Twitter and Whatsapp are useful to understand their learning experiences feelings. Collecting and analyzing data from such media can be a difficult task. However, the large scale of data is required for automatic data analysis techniques to classify Twitter data. The proposed new system is a combination of qualitative analysis and large-scale data mining and ML techniques. This system focuses on engineering students' Twitter posts, which are collected from engineering colleges, to understand issues and problems in their learning. The authors first conduct a qualitative analysis using ML studio on tweets collected from engineering colleges using term #DStudentsproblems, engineeringProblem, Aluminisuggestions, and ladyEngineer. Collected tweets are related to engineering students' college lives. In the proposed system, a multi-label classification algorithm to classify tweets reflecting students' problems such as soft skill issues, heavy study load, lack of social engagement, and sleep problems is used.
Telecommunication Network Performances and Evaluation of Radio Frequency Electromagnetic Radiation
Authors: Kazaure Jazuli S. , Matthew Ugochukwu O. , Okafor Nwamaka U. , Okey Ogobuchi Daniel
Published: July 2021

The ongoing mobile communication technology intensification had occasioned the inevitable multiplications in the ratio of the radio frequency base service stations which had raised public consciousness over the considerable health hazards of the radioactive emissions from the communication systems. The current paper analysed the sequences of electromagnetic field measurements performed on the selected three states in the North West Nigeria in order to establish the compliance of radiation levels of cellular base stations and wireless fidelity access points with respect to internationally approved recommendations. The measured power densities of wireless fidelity access points are minimal and do not surpass 1% of the level allowed by International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation (ICNIRP). The result confirmed the environmental safety of the RF energy maintained by the telecommunication operators within the general public indicating an insignificant health hazards to the citizens.
Influence of Colloidal Silica on Final Properties of no Cement Castables
Authors: Zemánek David , Nevřivová Lenka
Published: July 2021

This paper deals with sol-gel process and application in no cement castables based on andalusite. The use of calcium free binder increases the refractory parameters of material and allows its faster drying. Six colloidal sols from CWK Bad Köstritz based on SiO2 were tested, which differed not only in concentration and particle size, but also in pH. The influence of silica sols on the consistency of fresh castable, initial setting and final setting times were investigated. Furthermore, basic parameters after firing, such as bulk density, apparent porosity, flexural and compressive strength, were tested.
Fly Ash-Based Geopolymer: Green Material in Carbon-Constrained Society
Authors: Nguyen Hoc Thang , Dang Phong Thanh
Published: July 2021

Climate change is recognized as a global problem and even the industrial and construction sectors are trying to reduce the green-house gas emissions, especially on CO2 emissions. In Vietnam, the coal-fired thermal power plants are discharging millions of tons of CO2 and coal ash annually. This coal ash is comprised of about 80% of fly ash and the rest is bottom ash. This study would like to introduce one of the potential solutions in a carbon-constrained society that would not only manage the fly ash but also utilized this as raw material for green materials through geopolymerization. The geopolymer-based material has lower energy consumption, minimal CO2 emissions and lower production cost as it valorizes industrial waste. The fly ash containing high alumino-silicate resources from a coal-fired power plant in Vietnam was mixed with sodium silicate and sodium hydroxide solutions to obtain the geopolymeric pastes. The pastes were molded in 10x10x20cm molds and then cured at room temperature for 28 days. The 28-day geopolymer specimens were carried out to test for engineering properties such as compressive strength (MPa), volumetric weight (kg/m3), and water absorption (kg/m3). The microstructure analysis was also conducted for this eco-friendly materials using X ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Differential Thermal Analysis - Thermal Gravimetric Analysis (DTA-TGA).
Different medico legal issues in deaths due to entrapment with animal electric traps; a study on selection of cases from the Southern Province, Sri Lanka
Authors: Warushahennadi J. , Senavirathne A. S.
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Deaths due to electrocution involve both low and high voltage current and the manner of death is almost always accidental. Deliberate electrocution of wild animals by an unsafe extension of an electric line is made by drawing an electric connection from the low voltage utility bare lines. The entrapment of humans in these electric traps is observed in several geographical areas in Sri Lanka. The study intends to raise different medico legal issues pertaining to these deaths in a selected sample. Methods: A descriptive, retrospective study was carried out on 13 outdoor electrocution deaths due to contact with animal electric traps. The medico legal autopsies were carried out by the researchers and the data were collected from the autopsy and scene visit findings, police reports and the inquirers’ reports. Results: All the victims were adult males. The electric entry mark which is the hallmark of forensic diagnosis of electrocution was observed in all 13 dead bodies. It was characterised by a groove with charring at the base in 12 deaths. The macroscopic and microscopic features of electrocution were observed even in severely decomposed bodies. The cause of death was in all cases was determined as electrocution and the manner of death was determined as accidental. The trappers in 9 incidences were identified but none of them were prosecuted for breaching the laws of the Electricity Act or the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance of SriLanka. Conclusions: The scene visit examination was helpful to determine the manner of death and was determined as accidental which may be debatable according to the law of the country.
Bacterial wound infections leading to bacteraemia with Vibrio vulnificus and Morganella morganii; two unusual cases
Authors: Piyasiri D. L. B. , Kirubaharan A. , Nanayakkara I. R. S. , Jayasekara J. V. G. M. , Galhenage M. N. , Sapukotana P. M.
Published: July 2021

No abstract available
Tra tecnologia e corporeit : il tempo oscuro della maternit  surrogata
Authors: Musio Alessio
Published: July 2021

Non disponibile.
Health care of immigrant patients in Italy: the perspective of health professionals
Authors: Spinosa Claudia , Angioletti Laura , Balconi Michela
Published: July 2021

Within a multicultural society, healthcare professionals (HPs) need to implement specific care pathways to meet the needs of patients with different cultural backgrounds who regularly present themselves in healthcare facilities in Italy. This study intends to examine the experiences and representations lived by HPs who deal with the care and management of foreign immigrant patients living in Italy, with chronic diseases. For this goal, a survey was conducted on a sample of 54 HPs recruited in hospital and outpatient facilities. The survey was analyzed with a quantitative analysis method. The results underlined that it is necessary to provide specific training paths to work with chronic immigrant patients, standardizing the training of medical staff both in hospitals and clinics, and providing for other types of professionals specialized in relations with foreign patients, to respond to all requests from foreign users, and not just healthcare ones. This study proposes a new survey model aimed at obtaining in-depth information on the representation of HPs towards the health and well-being of chronic immigrant patients, to provide concrete answers to the needs of the foreign population, providing for the collaboration of several specialised professionals.
Heritable human genome editing: our moral responsibilities towards future generations
Authors: Agius Emmanuel
Published: July 2021

The uncharted territory of genome editing technology, which can be described as the Copernican revolution of our age, presents the challenge of the trade-offs between the benefits to people now and the known unknowns concerning future dangers and risks. It is for this reason that critics of human germline modification argue that it is unethical to harvest benefits in the immediate future while causing a whirlwind in the far-distant future! The current generation has, therefore, to make sensible decisions about the research and clinical application of human gene editing technologies to prevent far-reaching deleterious impact on an indefinite number of generations yet to come. Certainly, techniques of heritable human genome editing could increase vulnerability, discrimination and division among and between generations without the guidance of social justice which is inseparable from solidarity. Since the descendants of edited human embryos may be exposed to unknown, possibly negative long-term effects, without consenting to having these risks imposed on them, the thorny issues of harm, safety and precaution are crucial to address the knowledge-gaps and uncertainties implied the clinical application of human genome editing. Thus, the intergenerational moral consciousness and conscientiousness on the benefits and risks of human genome editing have to remain vigilant and alert!
Effects of high-flow nasal cannula in patients with mild to moderate hypercapnia: a prospective observational study
Authors: Nam Kyung Hun , Kang Hyung Koo , Lee Sung-Soon , Park So-Hee , Kang Sung Wook , Hwang Jea Jun , Park So Young , Kim Won Young , Suh Hee Jung , Kim Eun Young , Seo Ga Jin , Koh Younsuck , Hong Sang-Bum , Huh Jin Won , Lim Chae-Man
Published: July 2021

Background: Evidence for using high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) in hypercapnia is still limited. Most of the clinical studies had been conducted retrospectively, and there had been conflicting reports for the effects of HFNC on hypercapnia correction in prospective studies. Therefore, more evidence is needed to understand the effect of the HFNC in hypercapnia.Methods: We conducted a multicenter prospective observational study after applying HFNC to 45 hospitalized subjects who had moderate hypercapnia (arterial partial pressure of carbon dioxide [PaCO2], 43–70 mm Hg) without severe respiratory acidosis (pH <7.30). The primary outcome was a change in PaCO2 level in the first 24 hours of HFNC use. The secondary outcomes were changes in other parameters of arterial blood gas analysis, changes in respiration rates, and clinical outcomes.Results: There was a significant decrease in PaCO2 in the first hour of HFNC application (-3.80 mm Hg; 95% confidence interval, -6.35 to -1.24; P<0.001). Reduction of PaCO2 was more prominent in subjects who did not have underlying obstructive lung disease. There was a correction in pH, but no significant changes in respiratory rate, bicarbonate, and arterial partial pressure of oxygen/fraction of inspired oxygen ratio. Mechanical ventilation was not required for 93.3% (42/45) of our study population.Conclusions: We suggest that HFNC could be a safe alternative for oxygen delivery in hypercapnia patients who do not need immediate mechanical ventilation. With HFNC oxygenation, correction of hypercapnia could be expected, especially in patients who do not have obstructive lung diseases.
A Simulation Study of Noise Behavior in Basic Current Mirror using CNTFET and MOSFET
Authors:   National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Institute of Intelligent Industrial Technologies and Systems for Advanced Manufacturing (STIIMA), Bari, via Amendola 122 D/O, 70126 Bari, Italy, Marani Roberto , Perri Anna Gina
Published: July 2021

We present a aimulation study of noise behavior in basic current mirror using CNTFET and MOSFET, obtaining that the output noise current is always higher for the CNTFET than for the MOS device. Keywords— CNTFET, MOSFET, Modelling, Current Mirror Design, Advanced Design System (ADS).
The Definition of the Paramethers of Superconducting Film for Production of Protection Equipment Against Electromagnetic Environmental Effects
Authors: Yeromina Nataliia , Kravchenko Ivan , Kobzev Igor , Volk Maksym , Borysenko Viktor , Lukyanova Viktoriia , Gnusov Yurii , Horelov Yurii , Rikunov Oleh , Kaplun Sergiy
Published: July 2021

The paper presents the results of evaluating the propagation of a plane electromagnetic wave (EMW) over the surface of a film made of a high-temperature superconductor (HTS) in both superconducting S and normal N states, as well as an analysis of the parameters of a thin HTS film necessary for implementing a device for protection against electromagnetic radiation. Evaluation of the propagation of EMW over the surface of a thin HTS film was performed on the basis of a two-fluid model. As a result of the research, relations were obtained for determining the value of the surface impedance and the depth of penetration of EMW into a superconducting film in S and N states. It is shown that the expression for determining the penetration depth of EMW into a superconducting film in the normal N state is applicable provided that the frequency of the signal field does not exceed the critical value, which is determined by the binding energy of charge carriers at a temperature not exceeding the transition temperature to the superconducting state. Based on the relations for determining the surface impedance of a thin HTS film, relations are obtained for the active surface resistance, which is the real part of the surface impedance, and the surface reactance, which is its imaginary part, in the superconducting and normal states. Using these ratios, the quality parameter of the HTS thin film is introduced. The dependence of the quality factor of the HTS film on its thickness is found. It is shown that the highest value of the quality factor is realized when the film thickness is less than or of the order of the penetration depth. It is noted that this dependence is valid only if the film thickness does not depend on its quality. Keywords — superconducting film, electromagnetic wave, two-fluid model, surface impedance, penetration depth.
Peculiarities of Implementing the State’s Strategic Narrative based on the Public Opinion
Authors:   National Defense University of Ukraine named after Ivan Cherniakhovskyi, Ukraine, Kyiv, 01001, Voitko Oleksandr , Loza Volodymyr , Khudov Hennadii , Bakhvalov Valentyn , Chernozubkin Igor , Kuchuk Nina , Oleksenko Oleksandr , Chepel Maksym , Khizhnyak Irina , Yuzova Iryna
Published: July 2021

The main purpose of the article is the peculiarities of implementing of the state’s strategic narrative based on the the statistical analysis of the public opinion. The scenarios of the public opinion development are forecasted. The main results are: the graphs of the statistical series of change in public opinion have been constructed; the approximating functions for the trend of change in public opinion have been determined; the parameters of the approximating function have been calculated; a point forecast of the change in public opinion has been made. The main scientific method ia the method of statistical extrapolation. The main results are: to identify the features of the implementation of the strategic narrative of the state system in strategic communications; it is obtained the necessary minimum value of efficiency. This value of efficienct should be achieved by the system of strategic communications, when taking appropriate measures to promote and support of the appropriate course of the state by the population. This result is actually such as in the controlled territory and in the temporarily occupied territories (Donetsk and Luhansk regions, the Crimea). Keywords—strategic narrative, target audience, informational and psychological influence, strategic communications
Telemedicine Implementation Challenges in Underserved Areas of the Philippines
Authors:   Technological University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines., Cruz Luna A. Dela , Tolentino Lean Karlo S.
Published: July 2021

During these difficult times of global pandemic, mobility restrictions and lockdowns were put in place to prevent an outbreak. However, patients with medical needs must deal with regular face-to-face consultations with physicians for their prescriptions and medications. It is important to review the various telemedicine research in the Philippines and abroad and how to formulate a national framework for telemedicine so the program can be implemented in the entire country. As a developing nation and an archipelago, the Philippines needs to work on massive infrastructure project for national broadband and health care facilities. The increase of medical professionals per 1000 of population and prevent them from migrations will help implement such innovation in medical field. A national policy to support the program in terms of funding and its transparency, establishment of processes and standards, and safeguarding digital information should be put in place. The country will need to address these gaps in technology and processes and encourage the population to partake in national health plans and initiatives to increase awareness and engagement of all stakeholders. Keywords— Challenges, Developing Countries, eHealth, Implementation, IoMT, Philippines, Rural, Telehealth, Telemedicine, Underserved
Reseña de Se levanta el clamor popular. Experiencias del pueblo organizado durante el gobierno de los mil días 1970-1973 de Enrique Gatica (Eds)
Authors: Arias Inostroza Gonzalo
Published: July 2021

Reseña de:
Se levanta el clamor popular. Experiencias del pueblo organizado durante el gobierno de los mil días 1970-1973 de Enrique Gatica (Eds)
Los tortuosos pactos de convivialidad en El juguete rabioso de Roberto Arlt
Authors: Chicote Gloria
Published: July 2021

El presente trabajo interroga un texto literario, El juguete rabioso de Roberto Arlt, publicado en Buenos Aires en 1926, entendido como un contexto de convivialidad surgido del universo de las representaciones culturales. Para ello, partimos de una constelación de conceptos procedentes de la teoría y de la crítica literaria que resultan funcionales a la hora de situar las posibles implicancias de la convivialidad en el campo de las creaciones literarias de América Latina. Los tortuosos pactos de convivialidad en la Buenos Aires de principios del siglo XX, que atañen tanto la psicología individual como las representaciones sociales, serán asediados en este artículo a partir del significado de los recorridos por el espacio urbano en transformación y de la centralidad de la literatura como instrumento de consumo y de producción.
Sonolência excessiva diurna com ênfase em estudantes de medicina: um reexame da literatura
Authors: Leite Cleber Queiroz , Dos Santos Brian França
Published: July 2021

A sonolência excessiva diurna é comum entre os estudantes de medicinas, onde esse marco pode acarretar em consequências graves. Assim, enfatiza-se a necessidade de criar medidas que visem equilibrar a rotina dos estudantes de medicina, primando a sua qualidade de vida.
Câncer melanoma e não melanoma: potenciais benefícios da fitoterapia no tratamento de lesões dermatológicas oncológicas
Authors: Cunha Aline Aparecida da Silva , Lima Aline Arantes , Oliveira Sofia Barcelo
Published: July 2021

O estudo buscou evidenciar, por meio de revisão de literatura, os benefícios da fitoterapia em lesões dermatológicas oncológicas. Constatou-se que o  uso de plantas medicinais contribui significativamente para cicatrização e controle de dor em sítio tumoral e adjacências
Isolation of Alkalophilic Pectinolytic Bacteria and their Bio Retting Effect on Kenaf Fiber Compositions
Authors: Hossain Munir , Siddiquee Shafiq , Kumar Vijay
Published: July 2021

Retting is the most limiting process of high-quality cellulosic kenaf bast fiber production which facilitating the separation of useable fiber from the plants' cell wall matrix. Existing traditional water retting approach confronts ineptitude and eutrophication related complications. Aiming to enhance the kenaf bio-retting process, sixty-seven alkalophilic bacterial colonies were isolated from paddy land soil sediments and kenaf retting water. These isolates were subsequently screened, of that two isolates were selected based on hyper qualitative and quantitative pectinolytic enzymatic measures. 16s rDNA gene sequence analysis revealed that both two strains were closely related to Bacillus pumilus species and designated as KRB56 and KRB22. These strains were applied in augmented non-sterile kenaf tank retting to investigate their kenaf retting efficiency and yielded fiber were analyzed for chemical compositions. Results revealed that, stains KRB56 and KRB22 significantly improve the retting process by degradation of 82.78% and 75.28% non-cellulosic gums, respectively comparing with uninoculated treatment niche (62.12%). Based on un retted raw kenaf fiber maximum fiber bundle weight was reported in MTW with 16.04% material losses, while the SW, and FW treatments showed 24.38%, and 21.03% material losses, respectively. These bacterial treated fiber samples showed thinner, smooth, and cleaner fibers surface morphology by SEM indicates sufficient non cellulosic gums (NCGs) removal comparing with URKF. Moreover, yielded fibers were examined for chemical composition, FTIR, XRD test. Results revealed that compare to un retted and un inoculated kenaf fiber, bacterial treated kenaf fiber increases cellulose portions, and their crystallinity index increases 35.50-41.30 % due to sufficient NCGs removal. This study's findings indicate that isolated alkalophilic bacterial strains KRB56 and KRB22 were effectively to be used as kenaf bio retting agents to produce quality kenaf fiber.
MONITORING OF RHAGOLETIS CERASI L. THROUGH THE DECIS TRAP AT IAȘI-ROMANIA
Authors: Chelaru Simona-Mihaela , Turcu Cristina-Ionela , Corneanu Margareta , Perju Ionel
Published: July 2021

Rhagoletis cerasi (L.) is the main agent of damage to sweet cherry plantations. Found in all sweet cherry plantations, it is important for an integrated phytosanitary protection of the crop. The population dynamics in the Iasi area was monitored at different time intervals. The climatic conditions of the year and the biological reserve favored the appearance and development of the pest studied. The first catches were recorded on 12 May and the highest number of catches was recorded on 17 June 2020. Adult monitoring Rhagoletis cerasi (L.) was performed using “Decis Trap”, an attractive trap containing ammonium carbonate, which attracts by its orange color and fights with the active substance deltamethrin providing a duration of protection of 5 months. The appearance and dynamics of pests have directly influenced the phytosanitary protection program. The observations were made during the vegetation period of the cherry plantation within the Research and Development Station for fruit growing in Iași in 2020.
SESSILE OAK FOREST ECOSYSTEMS FROM TRANSYLVANIA IN THE CONTEXT OF CLIMATIC CHANGES
Authors: Crisan Vlad , Dinca Lucian , Deca Sorin , Ienasoiu Gruita , Scarlatescu Virgil
Published: July 2021

Climatic modelling software was used in order to measure future changes in climatic conditions. The software HYPE can realize prognosis for certain climatic factors responsible for causing extreme climatic phenomena in forest ecosystems. It was applied to study sessile oak forest ecosystems from Transylvania. Sample surfaces were installed, inventoried and followed by simulations of two future climatic scenarios. Two such scenarios were chosen, namely the climatic scenario in which the gas effect concentration will increase moderately (rcp-4.5) and the climatic scenario in which the gas effect concentration will be accentuated (rcp-8.5). The data was then processed and which led to an analysis of the way in which future climatic changes will affect forest ecosystems located in the studied area. After analyzing all three sessile oak stands, we can conclude that the Mediaș stand is the most vulnerable one to both climatic parameters. Future climatic scenarios are necessary for other surfaces located in our country for the same species, as well as for others in order to have a bigger picture of future implications. The best management measures and decisions regarding the installment of future stands can consequently be taken based on these results.
The Demographic Implications of Crop Farmers-Pastoralists Conflict in Benue North-West, Nigeria
Authors:   Department of Geography, Benue State University, Makurdi, Nigeria, Kwanga Godwin
Published: July 2021

Conflicts between crop farmers and pastoralists have become a common feature of economic livelihood in West Africa. The study assessed the demographic implications of crop farmers-pastoralists conflict in Benue North-West, Nigeria. The study adopted a cross-sectional survey design and a sample of 120 respondents was purposively selected from the three LGAs mostly affected by the pastoralists’ attacks. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, key informant interview and field observations and analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequency, percentages and mean). The study in its course found that availability of evergreen arable land (3,27), competition over available evergreen arable lands (3.0), damage to crops (3.12) and the proliferation and availability of cheap small arms and light weapons (2.52) are the major causes of conflict in the area. The study also revealed that the conflict has both short and long term demographic implication on the affected communities. The study recommended sustainable measures towards addressing conflict in the affected communities.
Glioma Image Analysis to Accurately Classify Mgmt and Predict Drug Effectiveness
Authors:   Institution: Basis Scottsdale, Arizona, Scottsdale, Arizona 85259, Mehta Viraj
Published: July 2021

Glioblastoma multiforme is a deadly brain cancer with a median patient survival time of 18-24 months. A single biopsy cannot provide complete assessment of the tumor’s microenvironment, making personalized care limited. 50% of the patients do not respond to the anti-cancer drug Temozolomide(TMZ) because of the over-expression of MGMT gene. Epigenetic silencing of the MGMT gene by methylation results in decreased MGMT expression, resulting in increased sensitivity to TMZ, and longer survival. The purpose of this research is to use artificial intelligence (AI) to design a low cost methodology to determine the MGMT’s methylation status and suggest non- invasive treatment plan
Erysipelas During Pregnancy
Authors:   Department of Dermatology Venereology, Hassan II University Hospital Fez, AMRAOUI Nissrine , MEZIANE Meriem ,   Department of Dermatology Venereology, Hassan II University Hospital Fez
Published: July 2021

Pregnancy is a physiologic condition with a significant alteration of the immune functions and during which extremities erysipelas are rarely reported. We report in the light of a literature review the results of 6 patients treated for leg erysipelas between 2012 and 2016.
Indiscipline among Junior High School Students in Nkoranza District: Causes, Effects and the Way Forward
Authors:   Baptist University College of Ghana, Kumasi, Kwakye Eric Osei
Published: July 2021

The aim of the research was to find out the causes, effects and solutions to indiscipline among students in selected junior secondary schools in the Nkoranza district. Questionnaires were given the teachers, headmasters and their assistants while students were interviewed. The information gathered were analysed and general conclusions made about the results which were for the total percentages for all students, teachers, heads and assistants. The subjects were ninety (90) students comprising of thirty (30) from each of the three schools. Additionally, there were six (6) teachers from each of the three (3) schools making eighteen (18) including heads and assistants. The analysis showed that most respondents agreed on the idealistic concept of discipline. It was also established that, indiscipline was caused by both “internal” and “external” factors. There was no general agreement between students and educators on acts of indiscipline that were considered as serious or not. However, there was a definite agreement among the respondents on the method of ensuring discipline. Rudeness to those in authority came out as the worst kind of behaviour in the school. (Table 19) 72.3% of students, 55.3% of teachers and 98.1% of heads and assistants considered it a serious kind of behaviour. Some recommendations were made as a result of the study. This included the appointment of a fulltime Guidance and Counseling coordinator to each school to ensure the establishment of self-discipline among students. Another recommendation was that students should be involved in decision-making process in the schools
Corruption, Human Capital and Economic Development in the Mean Region: Empirical Test
Authors:   Research Laboratory: MOFID, University of Sousse and UPS-ARSI, Private University of Sousse, Tunisia, Mtiraoui Abderraouf
Published: July 2021

This work tests the robustness of the relationship between human capital and control of corruption with four econometric methods. We will show in detail the importance of state intervention in its power to reduce this phenomenon (corruption) in the management of resources (public expenditure) countries since corruption as plague both social and economic, may hinder the economic development especially in the sectors of education and health. In part, we will try to study the effects of corruption control on the quality and yields of public education and health services for the MENA region during the fixed period (1984-2018)
Research on the Reciprocal Mechanism of Hybrid Governance in Blockchain
Authors:   University of Lyon II, Faculty of Economics and Management, Coactis, France, Li Yuan , Zhou Yuewu ,   Emory University, School of Arts and Sciences, USA
Published: July 2021

This paper aims to discuss the reciprocal mechanism of governance-by-blockchain and governance-of-blockchain within the context of hybrid governance, a model that combines both on- chain and off-chain methods to create reciprocal structure. Assuming the contingency theory, the effectiveness of a hybrid model depends on the collective interactions between technology, management, and public sphere. We found that technical innovations in governing methods promote the formation of effective technology management and the performance of blockchain as a governing tool is symbiotically linked to the consistent regulation of blockchain. After considering the different possible implementations of blockchain for governance, we concluded that the probability of success is highest in consortium blockchain, followed by public blockchain and private blockchain. By studying the Dream Valley Blockchain Project, a site currently attempting to realize the hybrid model on the scale of a small city, we confirmed some of the concerns regarding blockchain governance. In conclusion, the interactions between blockchain and governance are mutually beneficial. A significant amount of research and development still remains before hybrid governance is achieved. However, the difficulty surrounding the task of managing rapidly developing technology can be alleviated best by incorporating technological advancements into the governance structure
Conventional Microfinance in Tunisia: A Tool to Fight Poverty
Authors:   Faculty of Economic Sciences and Management of Sousse, Tunisia, Maher Zaied
Published: July 2021

Microfinance has been identified as an important tool for reducing poverty by increasing the productivity of the poor and thereby promoting economic development. Generally, the clients targeted by microfinance are in a relatively vulnerable and high-risk situation, with a generally unstable income that sometimes causes them to fall into extreme poverty. Across our sample only 26.7% have an income above 300 dinars. This result suggests that the surveyed population is very poor, especially when we find that among the 73.3% who have an income below 300 dinars, beneficiaries have a monthly income of less than 60 dinars before financing. This finding suggests that microfinance with its current tools unable to improve the incomes of the poor, so we find that Islamic microfinance can be a new mechanism to improve this sector according to the respondents. Our research aimed to measure the specific contribution of microfinance to improving the income of the poor living in rural areas of the Tunisian Sahel during a 3-month period in 2020. To test our hypotheses we adopted a mixed method that combines both documentary research and survey techniques (questionnaires and interviews), based essentially on:The available and accessible literature search which consists of the analysis and interpretation of previous theories and studies that address the same issues on which we base our own analysis. Questionnaires distributed to microcredit beneficiaries and some MFI managers and agents. During the analysis, we proceeded question by question before measuring the opinions of our subjects on the studied phenomenon. Thus, the data collected during the investigation phase is analyzed and processed using statistical methods. It consists in using and interpreting the data collected during our surveys
Tumefactive Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis after Recent Covid-19 Infection: A Case Report
Authors:   Other Specialty, Plastic Surgery and Plastic Surgery Hand Surgery, Institute of Reconstructive Plastic Surgery of Central Texas, Kelley Brian Patrick
Published: July 2021

Objective: To report a case of a patient with recent mild to moderate COVID-19 infection who developed tumefactive acute disseminated encephalomyelitis. Methods: Patient data were obtained from medical records from the University of Wisconsin – Madison Hospitals in Madison, WI, USA. Results: We report a 59-year-old man with past medical history notable for atrial fibrillation, biventricular pacemaker, end-stage renal disease secondary to idiopathic fibrillary glomerulonephritis, on hemodialysis awaiting transplantation, who presented with ongoing cognitive changes and pneumonia. He was repeatedly COVID-19 positive with minimal symptoms for 4 weeks prior to admission. He developed right sided hemiparesis and persistent, progressive encephalopathy manifesting primarily with disorientation, agitation, and aggression. CSF was notable for cell count of 7, protein of 48, and glucose of 65. Anti-MOG antibody and AQP-4 antibody were negative. A series of CT/CTA head imaging with and without contrast showed progressive multifocal supratentorial areas of white matter hypoattenuation and MRI head with and without contrast demonstrated progressive multi-focal large ovoid T2 FLAIR hyperintensities, partially ring enhancing on contrasted portion of study, consistent with tumefactive demyelinating disease. Significant improvement in mental status and right sided hemiparesis symptoms was observed with initiation of corticosteroids. Conclusion: This case study provides neuroimaging evidence and clinical correlation to support that SARS–CoV-2 and resultant COVID-19 infection can lead to tumefactive acute disseminated encephalomyelitis. This complication has not been previously documented associated with recent COVID-19 infection.
How to Get Ill, Stay Ill and Die
Authors:   Honorary Fellow of the International Academy of Medical Sciences, United Kingdom, Hague Andrew Hague
Published: July 2021

This is your death plan. Choose the easy options. Go with the flow. Do what you want to do. This will get you off the endless conveyor. No more effort and it’s all downhill. Be advised by advertisers, doctors who know nothing about food or exercise, a government that wants to squeeze you and business intent on profit. If you are reading this thinking you can do the opposite, think again. You will be fighting powers you did not know exist. Perhaps you should be in a cave without money, friends or help. Survival in a civilised society is difficult. Only the brave can go against the grain. There are three sectors: food, exercise and lifestyle. All three are waiting for you like monsters of the deep to suck you in and kill you. You think you are being looked after. Beware!