bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
POLA KEMAMPUAN KOGNITIF DAN KETERAMPILAN BERPIKIR KREATIF PADA KONSEP PERUBAHAN LINGKUNGAN ANTARA SISWA LAKI-LAKI DAN PEREMPUAN DI SMA NEGERI 2 MRANGGEN
Authors: KUSUMANINGRUM MIRA ESTI , SISWANTO JOKO , ROSHAYANTI FENNY
Published: April 2021

This study aims to determine patterns of cognitive abilities and creative thinking skills between male and female students in SMA Negeri 2 Mranggen. This research is included in non-experimental research. The study population was students of class XI consisting of 9 classes. The sampling technique uses stratified proportional random sampling, using the Slovin formula with a significant level of 10% so that 76 students are obtained from 324 students, 38 students each for male and female. The technique of data collection in this study is in the form of tests of cognitive abilities and creative thinking skills in the form of multiple-choice questions and descriptions of environmental change material. The instrument used was in the form of multiple-choice questions that contained C1-C6 for cognitive abilities and aspects of creative thinking for the problem description. The data collected was then analyzed using quantitative descriptive analysis and independent t-test, with a significance level of 0.05. The results showed a t-test of -1.067 and t-table with a significance (α) of 5% of 1.922 for cognitive abilities. Meanwhile, creative thinking skills were obtained that the t-count was -3.088 and the t-table with a significance (α) of 5% was 1.922. The results of both calculations show that H0 fails to be rejected which means there is no real difference between the creative thinking skills of male students and female students.
Sistem Navigasi Makluk Hidup: Menakisme Penjelajahan Secara Alamiah (Implementasi Strategi Pembelajaran Tematik Pada Materi Induksi Elektromagnetik)
Authors: Nurohman Sabar , Sarwanto Sarwanto
Published: April 2021

Kompetensi Dasar 3.6 Kelas IX memberi tantangan bagi guru sains untuk mengelaborasi konsep sains secara terpadu. Pada kompetensi dasar tersebut konsep fisika tentang elektromagnetisme digabungkan dengan konsep biologi tentang sistem navigasi. Melalui studi literatur terhadap berbagai jurnal ilmiah, artikel ini bertujuan untuk mengkaji bagaimana konsep listrik dan magnet memiliki peran penting dalam peristiwa pergerakan/navigasi beberapa jenis hewan. Kajian ini juga diperluas terhadap hewan-hewan yang melakukan navigasi menggunakan gelombang bunyi. Secara lebih terperinci, tujuan artikel ini adalah untuk menganalisis bagaimana mekanisme berbagai jenis hewan melakukan migrasi dikaitkan dengan beberapa konsep fisika berupa kelistrikan, kemagnetan, dan gelombang bunyi.
“PACUL” Alat Tradisonal Untuk Pembelajaran IPA Terpadu Berbasis STEM
Authors: Adi Delisma Wisnu
Published: April 2021

Hakikat IPA merupakan proses, sikap, produk dan aplikasi. Tuntutan perkembangan ilmu menghendaki adanya aplikasi pengetahuan dalam bidang teknik dan matematis tehadap lingkungan. Pendekatan STEM hadir untuk membelajarkan IPA. Pembelajaran IPA secara terpadu dan bermakna bagi peserta didik dapat diciptakan dengan membawa konsep pembelajaran dan diterapkan pada lingkungan peserta didik. Wilayah Indonesia yang sebagian berupa daratan subur maka mata pencaharian sebagai petani sudah menjadi pengetahuan umum. Dalam studi ini mencoba menyajikan pembelajaran IPA Terpadu berbasis STEM dengan menggunakan “Pacul” sebagai alat pertanian tradisional sebagai bahan pembelajaran IPA Terpadu. Alat pertanian yang umum tersebut dihadirkan dalam pembelajaran dengan harapan peserta didik paham bahwa konsep IPA dekat dengan mereka.
Level of Inquiry Pembelajaran Fisika: Pengaruhnya terhadap Kemampuan Kognitif Ditinjau dari Sikap Ilmiah Siswa
Authors: Sarwanto Sarwanto
Published: April 2021

Penelitian ini bertujuan menganalisis: (1) pengaruh level of inquiry (LoI) terhadap kemampuan kognitif; (2) pengaruh sikap ilmiah terhadap kemampuan kognitif, (3) dampak pembelajaran LoI terhadap sikap ilmiah siswa. Pembelajaran LoI dari dibatasi pada inquiry lesson dan guided inquiry lesson. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kuasi eksperimen. Populasi penelitian ini adalah siswa kelas X salah satu SMA Negeri di Kabupaten Sukoharjo. Sampel dipilih dengan teknik cluster random sampling. Teknik pengumpulan data menggunakan observasi, tes, dan dokumen; analisis data menggunakan uji anova. Hasil penelitian disimpulkan: (1) kemampuan kognitif antara siswa yang diberi pembelajaran guided inquiry lab lebih baik daripada inquiry lesson (Fobs=4,12 > Fα=3,97), (2) kemampuan kognitif siswa yang memiliki sikap ilmiah tinggi lebih tinggi sikap ilmiah rendah (Fobs=5,03 > Fα=3,97), (3) tidak ada interaksi pengaruh antara penggunaan pembelajaran inquiry lesson dan guided inquiry lab dengan kategori sikap ilmiah tinggi dan rendah terhadap kemampuan kognitif siswa (Fobs=0.33 > Fα=3,97).
Tune Up Your Teaching Toolbox!
Authors: Zachry Anne , Flick J. , Lancaster S.
Published: April 2021

Occupational therapy (OT) educators strive to prepare entry-level practitioners who have the expertise to meet the diverse health care needs of society. A variety of instructional methods are used in the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) MOT program, including traditional lecture-based instruction (LBI), problem-based learning (PBL), team-based learning (TBL), and game-based learning (GBL). Research suggests that active learning strategies develop the critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are necessary for effective clinical reasoning and decision-making abilities. PBL, TBL, GBL are being successfully implemented in the UTHSC MOT Program to enhance the learning process and improve student engagement.
Femoral Head Osteonecrosis in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Trent Sarah , Sicat Chelsea Sue , Slover James
Published: April 2021

Update

This article was updated on May 14, 2021, because of a previous error. On page 1, the investigation line that had read “Investigation performed at Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island, and Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania” has been removed.

An erratum has been published: JBJS Reviews. 2021 May;9(5):e20.00142ER.

» Osteonecrosis of the femoral head disproportionately affects patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and is the most frequent indication for total hip arthroplasty (THA) in these patients.

» Patients with SLE are more likely to undergo THA than those without the disease, and they elect for the procedure at a younger age. More arthroplasty procedures are currently being performed on patients with SLE as the all-cause rate of arthroplasty is increasing similarly to that of the general population.

» Postoperatively, patients with SLE report similar functional outcomes but lower physical quality of life compared with their peers. Sociodemographic factors should be considered as barriers to recovery and should be taken into account during patient counseling.

» Past research regarding the postoperative infection risk following THA in patients with SLE has been unclear. Recent high-power data indicate that these patients have a higher risk of periprosthetic infection for unclear reasons.

» SLE is an independent risk factor for perioperative medical complications, including the need for blood transfusion, genitourinary complications, sepsis, acute renal disease, deep venous thrombosis, and falls, among other adverse events. The current perioperative treatment guidelines were founded on low-to-moderate-quality studies.
An Evaluation of Grammar Lessons in Selected Moroccan ELT Textbooks
Authors: Ait-Bouzid Hassan , Reddad Erguig , Mohamed Yeou
Published: April 2021

This paper is built on the assumption that there are no perfect language teaching textbooks; therefore, it hopes to draw the attention of Moroccan ELT practitioners to the viability of using textbook evaluation to improve the quality of these teaching-learning materials. It aims to investigate ways in which grammar lessons are presented in three Moroccan second year Baccalaureate ELT textbooks currently used in public high schools. It examines the extent to which these lessons help both teachers and students meet the teaching-learning objectives. The study adopts a mixed methods approach and uses content analysis that combines both quantitative and qualitative data analysis techniques. Findings reveal that, although the three textbooks present their grammatical content in different ways, they succeeded in providing challenging grammar contents that suit the needs and interests of the learners. On the other hand, they demonstrate that these textbooks contain problems related to relevance of visual aids, gradation of grammar lessons and authenticity of grammatical examples. Finally, the study concludes with a number of implications that inform future EFL textbook design in Morocco.
Prevalence of Cryptosporidiosis among Children with Diarrhoea Under Five years Admitted to Kosti Teaching Hospital, Kosti City, Sudan.
Authors: Tamomh Abdelhakam , Agena AbdElhadi , Elamin Elham , Suliman Mohammed , Elmadani Mohammed , Omara Asmaa , Musa Sahar
Published: April 2021

Background: Cryptosporidiosis is a disease caused by infection with an intestinal coccidian parasite Cryptosporidium. Cryptosporidium species are the second leading cause of diarrheal disease and death in children in developing countries. Until now, no data have been available or published on its prevalence rate among children with diarrhoea in Sudan. This paper was therefore, designed to determine the prevalence rate of Cryptosporidium among diarrhoeic children under 5 years admitted to Kosti Teaching Hospital. Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study including children with ages under 5 years old admitted to the paediatric section of the hospital between September 2020 and December 2020. A total of one-hundred and fifty stool samples were collected. All stool samples were examined using the modified Ziehl Neelsen (ZN) staining technique, and examined microscopically for Cryptosporidium infection. Results: A total of 150 children were examined out of which 70 presented with diarrhoea. A greater prevalence of 19/70 (27.1%) of Cryptosporidium was observed in children with diarrhoea than children without diarrhoea 7/80 (8.8%). There was a significant relationship between the prevalence of Cryptosporidium and the presence of diarrhoea in children under 5 years in Kosti Teaching Hospital(P<0.05). It was found that a higher prevalence was registered among children using pipe water for drinking.Conclusions: The overall prevalence of parasite detected was 17.3% among children admitted to Kosti Teaching Hospital. The prevalence rate of the infection among Children with diarrhoea was 27.1%. Studying the prevalence rate of cryptosporidiosis among diarrheic children may predict their health status, leading to a better diagnosis, treatment, and therefore, patients' status improvement.
Different Response to Cd2+ Adsorption by Alkali-modified Biochars Derived From Soybean Straw and Rape Straw
Authors: Kang Yaxin , Zhou Yi , Li Hao , Chen Shanguo , Tian Fenghua , Li Lianqing , Drosos Marios , Joseph Stephen , Pan Genxing
Published: April 2021

Biochars have been modified by alkali (Ca(OH)2) to enhance Cd sorption capacity in aqueous solution. In this research, the alkali-modified (Ca) biochars were prepared by co-pyrolyzing lime (Ca(OH)2) and soybean straw (SBB) or rape straw (RSB) at 450 °C. The absorption mechanism was investigated by a series of experiments and was provided by quantitative analysis. The maximum adsorption capacities of Cd2+ by Ca-SBB and Ca-RSB were calculated to be 78.49 mg g−1 and 49.96 mg g−1, which were 1.56 and 1.48 times higher than SBB (50.40 mg g−1) and RSB (33.79 mg g−1), respectively. Compared with the original biochar (SBB, RSB), alkali-modified biochars (Ca-SBB and Ca-RSB) were found to have faster adsorption kinetics and lower desorption efficiencies. The mechanism study indicated that Ca(OH)2 modification effectively enhanced the contribution of ion exchange and decreased the contribution of functional groups complexation. After Ca(OH)2 modification, precipitation and ion exchange mechanisms dominated Cd2 + absorption on Ca-SBB, accounting for 49.85% and 34.94% of the total adsorption, respectively. Similarily ion exchange and precipitation were the main adsorption mechanism on Ca-RSB, accounting however for 61.91% and 18.47% of total adsorption, respectively. These results suggested that alkali-modified biochars have great potential in adsorbing cadmium in wastewater.
DNA Metabarcoding of the Leachate Microbiota from Sanitary Landfill: potential for bioremediation process
Authors: Passarini Michel , Moreira João , Gomez Jose Alejandro , Bonugli-Santos Rafaella Costa
Published: April 2021

Microbial profile knowledge is essential to news alternatives and improvements in current treatments and destinations of landfill leachate that contains a variety of toxic compounds produced by municipal solid waste (MSW) disposal. Environmental DNA metabarcoding is an efficient, quick, and low-cost methodology for whole communities’ characterization. In this respect, the leachate from the Sanitary Landfill of Foz do Iguaçu City showed mixed characteristics from both acid and methanogenic phases, and 16S rDNA metabarcoding suggested the dominance of fermenting bacteria belonging to Firmicutes phylum, followed by Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes and Synergistetes. The leachate acidogenic phase ended up being masked in the chemical and physical analyzes, however was evidenced in the metabarcoding methodology. On the other hand, no specifically methanogenic group was detected in significant abundance. To future application using culturomics approaches to bioremediation the leachate sample presented groups extensively studied, especially the Pseudomonas genus to heavy metals treatments, such as cadmium.
Mathematical modelling of evapotranspiration by using remote sensing and data mining
Authors: Neissi Lamya , Golabi Mona , Albaji Mohammad , Naseri Abd Ali
Published: April 2021

Precise evaluation of evapotranspiration in an extended area is crucial for water requirement. By using remote sensing evapotranspiration algorithms, many climatological variables are needed. In case of using climatological variable measurements, many climatic stations must be established in that specific area. By using data mining method integrated with remote sensing, evapotranspiration can be calculated with high accuracy. A physical-based SEBAL evapotranspiration algorithm was modeled by GIS model builder for ET calculations. Albedo, emissivity, and Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI) were considered as M5 decision tree model inputs. Evapotranspiration was evaluated for 3 April 2020 to 17 September 2020 and the equations were extracted in the M5 decision tree model and these equations were modeled in GIS by using python scripts for 3 April 2020 to 17 September 2020. The results make clear that the mathematical decision tree model can estimate the evapotranspiration gained by physical-based SEBAL algorithm in high accurately.
Machining temperature comparative analysis of end mill and novel tool in orbital drilling of CFRP composite
Authors: Kong Linghao , Gao Dong , Lu Yong
Published: April 2021

Applying Carbon fiber-reinforced plastics (CFRPs) instead of traditional materials can improve the structural strength and reduce the weight of the spacecraft. However, the defects and the rejections still impede the wide application of CFRP for the contrasting thermo-mechanical properties of fibers and resin. A lower machining temperature can reduce burrs and delamination effectively. To study the cutting temperature of orbital drilling in CFRP, the processing temperature of the conventional orbital drilling (COD) was compared with the novel orbital drilling and reaming tool (ODR), and a heat transfer model considering the influence of convective heat transfer on cutting temperature was also proposed in this research, which can explain the reason of the novel tool with a lower cutting temperature. On the basis of the analysis of the kinematic mechanisms, a cutting force prediction model for the process of orbital drilling was presented. The three-dimensional, unsteady state, nonhomogeneous partial differential heat transfer equation in polar coordinates was established, and solved with the finite difference approach. The results show that the predictions of models are coincided to the experimental data, and ODR tool can reduce the processing temperature of orbital drilling effectively.
Evaluation Of Sediment Management Strategies For Large Reservoirs
Authors: Rashid Muhammad Usman , Miqdad Haris , Hassan Muhammad Saad ul , Haseeb Abdul
Published: April 2021

Multipurpose large dams play a key role in the development of world by providing water for irrigation, flood control and hydropower. Tarbela is one of the world's largest earth and rock fill dam. Being multipurpose dam, it provides vital role for economic stability and social development of Pakistan. Tarbela Reservoir has lost its significant capacity due to sediment deposition. The objective of the study was to evaluate different options for evacuation of deposited sediments and reducing sediment inflows to Tarbela Reservoir through sediment modeling by HEC-RAS. Sediment flushing from existing power tunnels was evaluated in first option and found not feasible due to the downstream constraints and loss of 7848 MW hydropower from Tarbela and Ghazi Barotha. New sediment bypass tunnels were proposed on right bank of the dam to overcome the constraints in second option. Sediment modeling was performed by HEC-RAS to evaluate each scenario of sediment flushing with different parameters. The sediment balance ratio and long term capacity ratio was also checked for each scenario for technical evaluation and also economic analysis was performed. Most technical viable scenario was flushing for 90 days at reservoir drawdown level of 390 m with discharge of 5000m 3 /s. However, this scenario was not economically feasible as net present value was negative, internal rate of return was 3-4 %, and benefit cost ratio was found less than one. The 3 rd option, with under construction multipurpose Diamer Basha Dam on upstream of Tarbela Reservoir, was also evaluated on HEC-RAS. Results depicted that large amount of sediments were trapped in the upstream reservoir which ultimately reduced significantly the inflow of sediments and delta movement in Tarbela Reservoir. This option is recommended because it will enhance the life of Tarbela Reservoir and it will keep on providing multiple benefits for longer time.
Bifurcation Analysis in Delayed Nicholson Equation With Harvest Term
Authors: Liu Yuying , Wei Junjie
Published: April 2021

In this paper, we investigate a delayed Nicholson equation with delay harvesting term which was proposed in open problems and conjectures formulated by Berezansky et al. (Applied Mathematical Modelling 34 (2010) 1405). The stability switching curves by taking two delays as parameters are obtained via the method introduced by An et al.(J. Differential Equations 266 (2019) 7073). The existence of Hopf singularity on a two-parameter plane is determined by the varying direction of two parameters. Furthermore, the normal form near the Hopf singularity is derived via applying the center manifolds theory and normal forms method of FDEs. Finally, some numerical simulations are carried out to illustrate the theoretical conclusions.
Telecom Churn Prediction Using Seven Machine Learning Experiments integrating Features engineering and Normalization
Authors: Jain Hemlata , Khunteta Ajay , Shrivastav Sumit Private
Published: April 2021

Machine Learning and Deep learning classification has become an important topic in the area of Telecom Churn Prediction. Researchers have come out with very efficient experiments for Churn Prediction and have given a new direction to the telecommunication Industry to save their customers. Companies are eagerly developing the models for predicting churn and putting their efforts to save the potential churners. Therefore, for a better churn prediction model, finding the factors of churn is very important. This study is aiming to find the factors of user’s churn by evaluating their past service usage details. For this purpose, study is taking the advantage of feature importance, feature normalisation, feature correlation and feature extraction. After feature selection and extraction this study performing seven different experiments on the dataset to bring out the best results and compared the techniques. First Experiment includes a hybrid model of Decision tree and Logistic Regression, second experiment include PCA with Logistic Regression and Logit Boost, third experiment using a Deep Learning Technique that is CNN-VAE (Convolutional Neural Network with Variational Autoencoder), Fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh experiments was done on Logistic Regression, Logit Boost, XGBoost and Random Forest respectively. First four experiments are hybrid models and rest are using standalone techniques. The Orange dataset was used in this technique which has 3333 subscriber’s entries and 21 features. On the other hand, these experiments are compared with already existing models that have been developed in literature studies. The performance was evaluated using Accuracy, Precision, Recall rate, F-measure, Confusion Matrix, Marco Average and Weighted Average. This study proved to get better results as compared to old models. Random Forest outperformed in this study by achieving 95% Accuracy and all other experiments also produced very good results. The study states the importance of data mining techniques for a churn prediction model and proposes a very good comparison model where all machine Learning Standalone techniques, Deep Learning Technique and hybrid models with Feature Extraction tasks are being used and compared on the same dataset to evaluate the techniques performance better.
Orange Layered Patinas on Limestone Surface in the Batalha Monastery (Portugal): Characterization and Decay Patterns
Authors: DING YUFAN , Redol Pedro , Angelini Emma , Mirao Jose , Schiavon Nick
Published: April 2021

Samples of orange patinas found on a limestone balustrade and an ornament of the Batalha Monastery have been investigated by X-ray micro-diffractometry (µ-XRD) and Low-Vacuum Scanning Electron Microscopy coupled with Energy Dispersive Spectrometry (LV-SEM + EDS). Aim of the study was to determine the composition of the layered patinas, assess whether they were been intentionally applied or naturally formed, and study their degradation patterns. Preliminary results revealed that the orange patinas on the balustrade and the ornament showed different compositions and appearance, suggesting distinct formation pathways. Orange layers on the ornament which suffers salt decay and delamination nowadays, mainly consisted of gypsum with hematite as a minor component, implying the possibility of an intentional application of a mixture of ochre and lime as tint plaster. Orange patinas on the balustrade show the presence of Ca-oxalates, abundant weddellite and minor whewellite, with minor hematite suggesting the yellowish/orange color to be due to Ca-oxalate patinas imbedding soil dust airborne particles. Such patina was possibly formed naturally either by the chemical attack due to atmospheric air pollutants from traffic exhausts emissions or by bacterial activity. No delamination was observed, abrasion is the major decay phenomenon on the balustrade sample. A comparison was made between this patina and the so called “scialbatura”, a surface yellowish coating often found by conservators on limestone and marble in ancient monuments in the Mediterranean region.
Analysing Challenges to Smart Waste Management for a Sustainable Circular Economy in Developing countries: A fuzzy DEMATEL study
Authors: Yadav Honey , Soni Umang , Kumar Girish
Published: April 2021

To improve the quality of life and achieve sustainability Internet of Things (IoT) plays a significant role. Waste can be converted to high value asset if treated properly with smart solutions. This study aims to develop an exploratory framework in the adoption of smart waste management in developing economies such as India analysing the various deferring parameters. To accomplish this aim the present study consists of two phases: In the first phase barriers in the adoption of IoT for smart waste management were identified after an extensive literature review and discussion with selected experts in this field. In the second phase the quantitative analysis using Fuzzy DEMATEL (Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory) method was performed on the selected barriers. The fuzzy DEMATEL methodology helps in prioritizing the most significant barrier by separating them into cause-effect group. The data were analysed on comparative basis based on two different perception to provide more detailed insight on the problems faced while smart waste management implementation. The results discloses that “Lack of government strict regulatory policies”, “Lack of proper Financial planning” and “Lack of benchmarking processes” are among the most critical causal barriers towards IoT based smart waste management that are hindering the vision of efficient waste management system. Further “Difficulty in implementing innovative technologies” and “Absence of Dynamic Scheduling and Routing” fall under significant potential causal effect category. The most prominent effect barriers are “Lack of awareness among community”, “Lack of source segregation and recycling commitment” and “Lack of service provider’s” which was concluded in results considering the comparison parameters from different perspective. The study also suggest that the effect barriers can be overcome automatically with mitigating the causal barriers in the long run. The comparative details of the study will further help the policy makers, stakeholders and government experts to frame policies and interventions to eradicate the identified barriers towards an efficient and innovative system for waste handling.
Effects of carbonaceous materials and particle size on oral and inhalation bioaccessibility of PAHs and OPEs in airborne particles
Authors: Zeng Yuan , Chen shejun , Fan Yun , Li Qiqi , Guan Yufeng , Mai Bixian
Published: April 2021

Bioavailability of environmental contaminants is attracting considerable scientific attention due to growing awareness of its importance for risk assessment. In this study, potential factors governing bioaccessibility of airborne particles-bound polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and organophosphorus esters (OPEs) in stimulated gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts were elucidated. Particle concentrations of PAHs and OPEs at the eight sites were 2.4−32.3 ng/m3 and 1.6−19.9 ng/m3, respectively. In fine particles (with aerodynamic diameter less than 2.5 µm), 4- to 6-ring PAHs were more strongly correlated with organic carbon (OC) than elemental carbon (EC); while 3- and 4-ring PAHs in coarse particles (2.5−10 µm) tended to associate with EC. OPEs mostly showed significant correlations with EC in both fine and coarse particles. OC and EC exerted a significantly restraining effect on the oral and inhalation bioaccessibility of most HOCs in fine particles due to sorption of HOC molecules to these components. Furthermore, the effects varied, which could depend either on the emission sources (for oral bioaccessibility of PAHs) or the physicochemical properties of HOCs (for bioaccessibility of OPEs and inhalation bioaccessibility of PAHs). Linear regression indicated that EC should play a more important role in the inhalation bioaccessibility than the oral bioaccessibility. Particle size of airborne particles is a relatively less significant factor determining the bioaccessibility.
Neuropathy Severity at the Time of Oxaliplatin Treatment Alteration in Patients with Colon Cancer (Alliance A151912)
Authors: Hertz Daniel , Dockter Travis J , Satele Daniel V , Loprinzi Charles L , Le-Rademacher Jennifer G
Published: April 2021

Background: Clinical guidelines recommend altering chemotherapy treatment by decreasing, delaying, or discontinuing dosing in patients who are experiencing chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy. There are few data available on the clinical use of treatment alteration including the severity of CIPN at the time of treatment alteration. Methods: This was a retrospective analysis of patients receiving oxaliplatin on the NCCTG N08CB trial. Neuropathy severity was assessed at each cycle by clinicians and patients. Patients were classified as 1) completed treatment without alteration, 2) dose reduction or delay due to neuropathy, 3) discontinuation due to neuropathy, or discontinuation for other toxicity (4), or another reason (5). Comparisons focused primarily on patients with alteration due to neuropathy (groups 2 and/or 3) compared with patients who completed treatment without alteration (group 1). Results: In 350 participants, 135 (39%) completed treatment without alteration, 70 (20%) had a dose reduction or delay due to neuropathy, and 35 (10%) discontinued early due to neuropathy. Clinician-assessed neuropathy severity was greater in patients at the time of dose reduction or delay compared with severity at the end of treatment in patients without alteration (p<0.0001). Patient-reported neuropathy severity at cycle 4 was worse in patients who had an alteration as compared with patients who completed treatment without alteration (p=0.017). Conclusions: Treatment alterations due to neuropathy are common in patients receiving oxaliplatin for colon cancer and are associated with clinician-assessed neuropathy severity. Rapid increases in patient-reported neuropathy severity indicate a potential need for monitoring and intervention.
Interleukin-35 Suppresses Pyroptosis and Protects Neuronal Death in Retinal Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Lin Bingying , Li Yangyang , Jiang Nan , Huang Siyu , Su Wenru , Zhuo Yehong
Published: April 2021

Background: Retina ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) is a pathological process in many eye disorders. Neuroinflammation and cell pyroptosis have been recognized as important in the pathogenesis of tissue damage in retina I/R. Interleukin (IL)-35 is a novel heterodimeric cytokine that exhibits anti-inflammatory activity in virous autoimmune diseases, but its role in retina I/R and the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unexplored. This study investigated the effect of IL-35 on retina I/R and the inhibition of pyroptosis and neuronal death.Methods: A murine retina I/R model was used to explore the neuroprotective effect of IL-35 recombinant protein in vivo. The primary murine microglial cells of pyroptosis and the retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) of oxygen and glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) models were employed to test the anti-pyroptotic and anti-apoptotic effects of IL-35 in vitro.Result: We found that IL-35 decreases retinal damage, RGC death, and inner plexiform layer (IPL) thinning in mice with retinal I/R injury, with significant attenuation of pyroptosis in the retina. The data also demonstrated the anti-pyroptosis action of IL-35 in primary microglia stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Furthermore, primary RGC apoptosis induced by OGD/R was directly suppressed by IL-35, and the IL-35-mediated neuroprotection was abrogated when miR-21 was blocked.Conclusion: Our findings identify potential underlying mechanisms of RGC apoptosis and suggest a new therapeutic target, IL-35, which exerts a robust neuroprotective effect against retina I/R.
Black Widow Optimization Algorithm and Similarity Index Based Adaptive Scheduled Partitioning Technique for Reliable Emergency Message Broadcasting in VANET
Authors: Devi M Ramya , Jeya I Jasmine Selvakumari
Published: April 2021

The vehicular ad hoc network (VANET) topology will change the mobility of the nodes and the data delivery will be efficient in the vehicle environment. This technique uses the density, mobility, dissemination in the requirements of emergency message broadcasting. The emergency message is broadcast on the road causes many issues like reliability, latency and scalability. Beacons are used in the VANET to broadcast messages and get the information from neighbours. When more vehicles transmit the messages in equal time lead a frequent broadcast storm the vehicles are faced the message delivery failure. Adaptive Scheduled Partitioning and Broadcasting technique (ASPBT) is used in our paper for message reliability, and the transmission efficiency will adjust the partitions and beacon automatically for reducing retransmissions. The partition size is determined using the density of network transmission of each partition schedule is estimated using the Black Widow Optimization (BWOA). The emergency message gets low delay and redundancy of the message is reducing, ASPBT include the forwarding of novel with the selection of optimal partition. The performance analysis is done with the existing methods for the determination of efficiency, redundancy, collision, and delay. The efficiency of proposed technique as 98% comparing with existing broadcast schemes of VANET.
Dirac Redux - Dirac’s Equation in Physical Spacetime without Internal Degrees of Freedom
Authors: Andoni S.
Published: April 2021

The Dirac equation (DE) is one of the cornerstones of quantum physics. We prove in the present contribution that the notion of internal degrees of freedom of the electron represented by Dirac’s matrices is superfluous. One can write down a coordinate-free manifestly covariant vector equation by direct quantization of the 4-momentum vector with modulus m: Pψ=mψ (no slash!), the spinor ψ taking care of the different vector grades at the two sides of the equation. Electron spin and all the standard DEproperties emerge from this equation. In coordinate representation, the four orthonormal time-space frame vectors Xµ appear instead of Dirac’s Yµ-matrices, the two sets obeying to the same Clifford algebra. The present formalism expands Hestenes’ spacetime algebra (STA) by adding a reflector vector x5 that is defining for the C (particle-antiparticle) symmetry and the CPT symmetry of DE, as well as for left- and right-handed rotors and spinors. In 3D it transforms a parity-odd vector x into a parity-even vector σ=x5x and vice versa. STA augmented by the reflector will be referred to as STAR, which operates on a real vector space of same dimension as the equivalent real dimension of Dirac’s complex 4×4 matrices. There are no matrices in STAR and the complex character springs from the signature and dimension of spacetime-reflection. This appears most clearly by first showing that STAR comprises two isomorphic subspaces, one for generators of polar vectors and boosts and the other for generators of axial vectors and rotors, including Pauli spin vectors. These then help to discuss the symmetries, probability current, transformation properties and nonrelativistic approximation of STAR DE. We prove here that the information from γ-matrices is contained in spacetime-reflection, which makes the matrices redundant. Therefore, it becomes relevant to reexamine those areas of quantum physics that take the γ-matrices and their generalizations as fundamental.
Indigenous knowledge, optimum recipe and storage stability of khurma, a cereal based traditional Nepalese product.
Authors: Katuwal Nirat , Subedi Aashika , Sapkota Sujan , KC Yadav
Published: April 2021

Khurma is a cereal based food indigenous to hilly regions of Nepal. It is a deep fried flour confection prepared by mixing wheat flour, rice flour, semolina, ghee, sugar, spices mixture, milk and water. Despite its popularity, the scientific documentation and researches in khurma is scarce. Moreover, quality of khurma is often subject to variation due to differences in recipe and the data on storage stability is unavailable. Therefore, in this study recipe of the product was optimized using sensory analysis and the optimized product was analysed for physicochemical parameters and storage stability. Proximate analysis showed that optimized khurma had 2.48 ± 0.12%, 36.87 ± 0.34%, 9.51 ± 0.47%, 0.48 ± 0.03%, 0.06 ± 0.01% and 50.60 ± 0.82% of moisture, fat, protein, total ash, crude fiber and carbohydrates respectively. Moreover, product was more stable in laminated packaging material compared to polyethene (PE) package. The results showed that khurma can be served and promoted as an energy dense snack.
Computational Fluid Dynamics Simulation of Airflow and Air Pattern in the Living Room for Reducing Coronavirus Exposure
Authors: Bayatian Majid , Ashrafi Khosro , Amiri Zahra , Jafari Elahe
Published: April 2021

Viruses can be transmitted in indoor environments. Important factors in Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) are air velocity, relative humidity, temperature, and airflow pattern and Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) can use for IAQ assessment. The objective of this study is to CFD simulation in the living room to the prediction of the air pattern and air velocity. A computational fluid dynamic model was applied for airflow pattern and air velocity simulation. For simulation, GAMBIT, FLUENT, and CFD post software were used as preprocessing, processing, and post-processing, respectively. CFD validation was carried out by comparing the computed data with the experimental measurements. The final mesh number was set to 1,416,884 elementary cells and SIMPLEC algorithm was used for pressure-velocity coupling. PERSTO, and QUIK schemes have been used for the pressure terms, and the other variables, respectively. Simulations were carried out in ACH equals 3, 6 and 8 in four lateral walls. The maximum error and root mean square error from the air velocity were 14% and 0.10, respectively. Terminal settling velocity and relaxation time were equal to 0.302 ×10− 2 m/s and 0.0308 ×10− 2 s for 10 µm diameter particles, respectively. The stopping distance was 0.0089m and 0.011m for breathing and talking, respectively. The maximum of mean air velocity is in scenario 4 with ACH = 8 that mean air velocity is equal to 0.31 in 1.1m height, respectively. The results of this study showed that avoiding family gatherings is necessary for exposure control and suitable airflow and pattern can be improving indoor air conditions.
Bioinspired functionally graded composite assembled using cellulose nanocrystals and genetically engineered proteins with controlled biomineralization
Authors: Mohammadi Pezhman , Gandier Julie-Anne , Nonappa Nonappa , Wagermaier Wolfgang , Miserez Ali , Penttilä Merja
Published: April 2021

Nature provides unique insights into design strategies evolved by living organisms to construct robust materials with a combination of mechanical properties that are challenging to replicate synthetically. Hereby, inspired by the impact-resistant dactyl club of the stomatopod, we rationally designed and produced a mineralized biocomposite in the complex-shapes of dental implant crowns exhibiting high strength, stiffness, and fracture toughness. This material consists of an expanded helicoidal organization of cellulose nano-crystals (CNCs) mixed with genetically-engineered proteins that regulate both binding to CNCs, as well as in situ growth of reinforcing apatite crystals. Critically, the structural properties emerge from controlled self-assembly across multiple length scales regulated by rational engineering and phase separation of the protein components. This work replicates multiscale biomanufacturing of a model biological material and also offers an innovative platform to synthesize multi-functional biocomposites whose properties can be finely regulated by colloidal self-assembly and engineering of its constitutive protein building blocks.
Curative Role of Dithiophenolato Titanium (IV)-Chitosan Nanocomposite Complex Against Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Liver Injuries
Authors: Shaban Nadia Z , Yehiaa Salah A , Awad Doaa , Shaban Shaban Y , Saleh Samar R
Published: April 2021

Background

Titanium-based compounds have been incorporated as promising antineoplastic metals. In our previous studies, dithiophenolato titanium (IV) Complex "DBT" and its chitosan nanocomposite "DBT-CSNPs" were prepared and we showed that these compounds have antibacterial activities, cytotoxic, and have abilities to bind with DNA helixes. Therefore, in this study, we evaluated the LD50 values of dithiophenolato titanium (IV)-complex (DBT) and its high thermal stable chitosan nanoparticles (DBT-CSNPs). Then their therapeutic effects against liver injuries induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) were assessed and compared with cisplatin treatment. Additionally, the anti-proliferative activity of DBT and DBT-CSNPs against human liver cancer (HepG2) cell lines through the analysis of the cell cycle was evaluated.
Methods

Nine groups of rats were prepared: normal, DBT, DBT-CSNPs, CSNPs, CCl4, CCl4-DBT, CCl4-DBT-CSNPs, CCl4-CSNPs and CCl4-cisplatin. Liver histopathology and the biochemical markers involving oxidative stress, apoptosis, liver and kidney functions, and lipid profile were determined.
Results

The results revealed that the treatment with DBT-CSNPs and DBT after CCl4 administration abolished liver damage since it reduced the apoptosis induced by CCl4 via the reduction of DNA fragmentation, Bax and caspase- 8 with an elevation of Bcl2 and Bcl2/Bax ratio. Also, these treatments caused nonsignificant changes in the markers of oxidative stress. Therefore, liver histopathology and functions, lipid profile, and kidney functions were improved. Cisplatin treatment reduced liver injury with a degree less than DBT-CSNPs and DBT, but it induced nephrotoxicity. Administration of DBT-CSNPs and DBT to healthy rats for 14 days has no adverse effect. Also, the results showed that DBT-CSNPs and DBT inhibited the proliferation of HepG2 cells by arresting cells in the G2/M phase and inducing cell death.
Conclusion

DBT-CSNPs and DBT have a therapeutic effect against CCl4-induced liver injuries via the reduction of apoptosis induced by CCl4. Moreover, both compounds have antineoplastic activities against the HepG2 cell line. In all cases, DBT-CSNPs have a greater effect due to their nanostructure. Therefore, both compounds can be used in the pharmacological fields, particularly DBT-CSNPs.
Public awareness and acceptance of COVID-19 vaccine: An online cross-sectional survey, conducted in the first phase of vaccination drive in India
Authors: Suresh Arumuganainar , Konwarh Rocktotpal , Singh Anand Pratap , Tiwari Anand Krishna
Published: April 2021

The context-specific, complex issue of ‘vaccine hesitancy’ is explicated in terms of delay or refusal of vaccination despite the availability of vaccine services. Although eleven million beneficiaries were administered the COVID-19 vaccine in India from 16th January 2021 till 20th February 2021, however, proportionately a low turnout has been registered in various parts of the country, possibly attributable to hesitance/apprehension towards the current vaccination. In this backdrop, we report the response (collected between Feb 1, 2021 and Feb 15, 2021) of 358 voluntary respondents who participated in an online questionnaire-based pan-India survey, executed to assess their knowledge and acceptance towards the current COVID-19 vaccination program in its first phase. The survey questionnaire consisted of demographic characteristics of the respondents and queries pertaining to knowledge (7 items) and acceptance (3 items). The overall correct rate and the average knowledge score of the participants were 78 % and 5.46 ± 1.4/7 respectively. The acceptance score was 3.50 ± 1.6/5 while 70 % of participants agreed against the 20 % of respondents who neither agreed nor disagreed to take the vaccine. Around 66 % believed that the vaccines, currently being administered in India are safe. Fear about possible side effects (44 %) and inadequacy of comprehensive clinical trial data (29 %), seemed to be the major players in fortifying the vaccine hesitancy among the respondents, exhibiting negative acceptance. Although maximum respondents demonstrated a good level of knowledge (82%) and acceptance (88%), significant differences were observed among some demographic variables. In general, a positive correlation was observed between knowledge and acceptance against a negative correlation, observed in specific provinces. Despite the good acceptance and knowledge, a considerable fraction of the participants (30%) expressed hesitancy. Counselling, mobilization, and feedback from vaccinated individuals about safety should be encouraged. However, due to the limited sample size, we must be cautious when generalizing these findings. Nevertheless, the major elucidations of this study may be utilized in planning vaccination campaigns in further phases.
Persistence and Degradation Pattern of Acequinocyl and Its Metabolite, Hydroxyl-acequinocyl and Fenpyroximate in Butterburs (Petasites Japonicus Max.)
Authors: Kim Leesun , Choi Geun-Hyoung , Noh Hyun Ho , Kim Taek-Gyum , Choi Dal-Soon , Kyung Kee Sung , Ro Jin-Ho
Published: April 2021

Degradation patterns and persistence of acequinocyl and its metabolite, hydroxyl-acequinocyl (acequinocyl-OH), and fenpyroximate residues in butterburs (Petasites japonicus Max.), one of the minor crops in Republic of Korea, were investigated during cultivation. Butterburs were planted in two plots (plot A for double dose; plot B for single dose) in a greenhouse. Each pesticide was applied to the foliage of butterburs at hourly intervals. Recoveries of acequinocyl and acequinocyl-OH were 78.6%−84.7% ± relative standard deviation (RSD) 1.9%−4.8% and 83.7%−95.5% ± RSD 1.0%−3.6%, respectively. The total (Ʃ) of acequinocyl residues in butterburs disappeared by 96.0% at 14 days after the final application in plot A and by 75.9% at 7 days in plot B. The biological half-life of the total (Ʃ) acequinocyl and fenpyroximate was 3.0 days and 4.0 days respectively. These results were used for setting maximum residue levels and safe use standards for the pesticide during butterbur cultivation. The risk assessment showed that the maximum % acceptable daily intake was 4.71% for Ʃ acequinocyl and 8.81% for fenpyroximate. The theoretical maximum daily intake of Ʃ acequinocyl and fenpyroximate were 24.02% and 15.24%, respectively, indicating the concentrations of Ʃ acequinocyl and fenpyroximate in butterburs pose no health risks to Koreans.
Assessment of Intention to Use Contraceptive Methods With Spatial Distributions and Associated Factors Among Women in Ethiopia: Evidence From EDHS 2016
Authors: Gilano Girma , Hailegebreal Samuel
Published: April 2021

Background: Modern contraceptive methods have immense influences on the health of mothers and their children. Using contraceptive methods is seen to control family size and unnecessary pregnancies. And it leads to peaceful and known family status. Considering different factors like resources and various cultural aspects, assessing the intention to use might bring areas with these problems into the light to act on them. Methods: We used multilevel logistic regression and spatial analysis techniques to the data from the 2016 Ethiopian demographic health survey. We downloaded the data from the EDHS website after the approval of the request for the data. We pooled the data to assess the intention to use contraceptive methods among 15-49 age women. After applying bivariate and multilevel binary logistic regression, we presented the information on Community and Individual level using tables, figures, and spatial distribution. We applied a p-value <0.05 and adjusted odds ratios (AOR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).Result: the intention to use contraceptive methods was 44.11%. Spatially, we found intention to use contraception highly clustered in North and Western Ethiopia. The average number of children (4.5±2.9), age at first cohabitation (16.9±3.99), and the ideal number of children (4.77±2.0). Some other factors associated with intention to use contraceptive methods were age, education, the information was given by health facility, age at first cohabitation, the ideal number of children, Wealth status, and Regions that were significant.Conclusion: We observed various distributions among regions. Education status and various socio-cultural aspects need serious considerations to increase the intention to use contraceptive methods. Besides the efforts done, policy decisions might need to consider this finding and uphill the intervention against associated factors like socio-cultural and demographic variables in those areas.