bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determinación de campos areales de precipitación y evapotranspiración en la margen izquierda de la cuenca del Paraná en territorio de Argentina. I: polígonos de Thiessen y kriging
Authors: Hämmerly Rosana del Carmen , París Marta del Carmen , Paz González Antonio
Published: April 2021

La precipitación (P) y la evapotranspiración potencial (ETP) son términos de la ecuación del balance hídrico que se miden en estaciones locales; sin embargo el uso de modelos de estimación de caudal requiere datos de los mismos a escala de cuenca. En este trabajo se presentan los resultados de la estimación de la precipitación y la evapotranspiración, interpolados mediante polígonos de Thiessen y la técnica geoestadística de kriging en aquellas subcuencas de la margen izquierda del Río Paraná, en territorio argentino que disponen de registros de caudal. Se estudiaron doce cuencas ubicadas en las provincias de Misiones, Corrientes y Entre Ríos, y se usaron las series de datos meteorológicas disponibles dentro de las mismas y en su periferia, en un periodo común de tiempo, entre 1970 y 2010. Previa a la obtención de la precipitación media areal se completan los datos mensuales faltantes. A partir de dicha información se pudo ponderar la aportación espacial de cada sitio de medida. Los datos medidos mensuales de precipitación y ETP presentaron dependencia espacial que fue descrita por semivariogramas de tipo lineal y gaussiano, respectivamente. En comparación con los polígonos de Thiessen, el krigeado o kriging ordinario proporciona estimaciones areales inferiores de precipitación en 11 de las 12 cuencas estudiadas, observándose las mayores diferencias en la provincia de Misiones. Se concluye que no se evidencia una mejor estimación de campos de precipitación y de ETP como resultado del incremento de la complejidad del método usado para la obtención de los mismos
La importancia de los tanques naturales (mega gnammas) en la preservación de fósiles de la megafauna cuaternaria en el Noreste de Brasil
Authors: Rodrigues Waldherr Felipe , De Araújo-Júnior Hermínio Ismael , Wilians De Oliveira Rodrigues Sérgio , Lira Ximenes Celso
Published: April 2021

Los tanques (mega gnammas) de origen natural excavados en roca constituyen formas de tamaño medio muy frecuentes en los relieves graníticos del Noreste de Brasil. El estudio de los sedimentos acumulados en el interior de esos tanques naturales se ha convertido en una fuente de datos de gran interés para el conocimiento de la paleontología cuaternaria de Brasil. Este tipo de cavidades habituales en zonas de sustrato granítico, una vez expuestas en superficie han actuado como depocentros locales para los flujos de agua y sus sedimentos asociados, a veces fosilíferos, lo que ha convertido estas concavidades en auténticas tanatocenosis. El estudio sistemático de las acumulaciones fosilíferas se ha convertido así en la principal herramienta para reconstruir las condiciones paleoambientales y paleoecológicas durante parte del período Cuaternario en la Región Intertropical Brasileña.
Precariedad e invisibilidad laboral en deportistas de artes marciales mixtas (MMA): un estudio de caso
Authors: Camilo Juliana A. de Oliveira
Published: April 2021

Las artes marciales mixtas (MMA) son un fenómeno deportivo global. En Brasil, el auge de las MMA ha sido particularmente intenso. Esto ha llevado a muchos atletas a tratar de destacar en este complejo y exigente mercado, en el que las apariencias suelen estar muy alejadas de las condiciones de trabajo reales de los luchadores. Este estudio de caso como objetivo mostrar el trabajo de los luchadores de MMA, a partir de una investigación etnográfica realizada en un evento de MMA celebrado la ciudad de São Paulo. Las observaciones y conversaciones relativas al evento se registraron en un diario de campo, que fue posteriormente objeto de análisis e interpretación desde la perspectiva de la psicodinámica del trabajo. Los resultados obtenidos muestran que el trabajo de los luchadores de MMA es invisible ante diferentes actores sociales, lo que genera precariedad, fragilidad en sus vínculos laborales y la consiguiente banalización de las injusticias sociales que estos sufren.
Drumheller Institution
Authors: Anonymous Prisoner 17 *
Published: April 2021

Contribution to the dialogue on Canada’s federal penitentiary system and the need for penal reform.
Mission Institution
Authors: Anonymous Prisoners *
Published: April 2021

Contribution to the dialogue on Canada’s federal penitentiary system and the need for penal reform.
Mountain Institution / Inmate Welfare Committee
Authors: Convict Joe
Published: April 2021

Contribution to the dialogue on Canada’s federal penitentiary system and the need for penal reform.
Vertical radiographic alveolar bone loss in smokers and non-smokers with periodontitis: A pilot study
Authors: Agrawal Sudhanshu , Singh Dipti , Kumar Pandey Pradeep
Published: April 2021

Smoking is considered a potential risk factor for the prevalence and severity of vertical alveolar bone loss. An increased occurrence of vertical bone defects has been observed in cigarette smokers as compared to non-smokers. A study was undertaken to compare vertical interproximal alveolar bony defects in smokers and non-smokers with chronic periodontal disease. A convenient sample of 60 orthopantomographic records of patients with chronic periodontal disease was selected. 30 patients were smokers and 30 were non-smokers. Bone height measurements were made utilizing extraoral digital panoramic radiographs obtained from patients’ digital records. The prevalence and severity of vertical bone loss were determined in smoker patients and compared to non-smokers. Any associations with particular groups of teeth and smoking were investigated, as well as any related gender differences. A greater mean millimeter vertical bone loss was observed in smokers as compared to non-smokers (1.112±0.784 mm vs. 0.935±0.887 mm), however this finding was not statistically significant (p=0.418). An increased prevalence of vertical bone loss was found in smokers as compared to non-smokers (10.06% vs. 8.76% respectively). Premolar groups of teeth and specifically maxillary premolars were significantly more affected (1.416±1.234 mm; p=0.030; 1.619±1.816 mm; p=0.002 respectively). No significant gender-wise differences of mean millimeter vertical bone loss were found between the different groups of teeth in smokers as compared to non-smokers. The present study supports the role of smoking to be considered as a risk factor for the development of vertical alveolar bone defects. Smokers presented with more severe vertical radiographic alveolar bone loss as compared to non-smokers, including maxillary premolars being significantly more affected. Further studies are suggested including comparisons between various radiographic techniques (FMX, OPG, CBCT) in the detection of alveolar bone loss.
The Social Meaning of Money in Nonprofit Organizations: A Case Study of Formal and Informal Earmarking of Money
Authors: Segnestam Larsson Ola , Alexius Susanna
Published: April 2021

By studying mechanisms, justifications, and valuations, this article analyzes the social meaning of earmarked money in a nonprofit organization. Focusing on the social meaning of money implies gaining insights into the moral underpinnings and justifications of the origin and generation of money as well as processes by which various streams of money are earmarked. Based on previous literature as well as our own research, we offer two models for understanding and studying processes that earmark and justify the earmarking of money. We illustrate the relevance of these models in a case study of the nonprofit organization IOGT-NTO in Sweden. We conclude the article by presenting key implications for nonprofit leadership and future research, including the recommendation that leaders need to analyze earmarking processes as well as how these processes affect organizations and to what ends money may be used.
Zachowania młodych gospodarstw domowych na rynku usług ubezpieczeniowych
Authors: Włodarczyk Katarzyna
Published: April 2021

Informacje o zachowaniu konsumentów na rynku ubezpieczeń są ważnym źródłem informacji dla firm ubezpieczeniowych w zakresie tworzonej oferty usług przystosowanej do potrzeb przyszłych konsumentów. Jednym z segmentów konsumentów są młode gospodarstwa domowe. Celem artykułu jest ocena zachowań młodych gospodarstw domowych na rynku usług ubezpieczeniowych. W artykule podjęto rozważania teoretyczne, a także zaprezentowano wyniki badań GUS (za lata 2010–2014), TNS oraz wyniki badań ankietowych przeprowadzonych w 2015 r. na grupie młodych gospodarstw domowych.
Effect of Foliar Application of Sulphur and Integrated Nutrient Management on Yield, Quality and Economics of Bed Transplanted Canola (Brassica napus L.)
Authors: Singh L. , Sharma R. , Singh N.
Published: April 2021

Background: Canola is an important oilseed crop throughout the world which is grown in more than 53 countries. Proper nutrient management plays a key role in its production. Use of unbalanced and inadequate fertilizers accompanied by restricted use of organic manures resulting in a decline in crop yield and quality. Little information is available on the response of canola to these factors. Therefore, this study is focused on to evaluate effect of foliar application of sulphur and integrated nutrient management on canola. Methods: A field experiment was conducted on sandy loam soil during winter (Rabi) season of 2017-18 and 2018-19 at Student’s Research Farm, Khalsa college, Amritsar to study the effect of foliar application of sulphur and integrated nutrient management on yield, quality and economics of bed transplanted canola (Brassica napus L.). Canola variety GSC 7 was sown by transplanting method on beds at spacing of 30 cm × 10 cm under Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with 6 treatment combinations of organic (Vermicompost and pressmud), inorganic and foliar fertilizer were used under three replications. Result: The results revealed that treatment containing 100% RDF + 40 kgha-1 sulphur + 1% foliar sulphur spray (T2) led to maximum siliqua length (8.5 cm), no. of siliqua plant-1 (547.5), no. of seed siliqua-1 (28.8), test weight (4.64 g), seed yield (24.92 q ha-1) and stover yield (78.53 q ha-1) whereas treatment consisting 100% N through vermicompost + 40 kgha-1 sulphur + 1% foliar sulphur spray (T3) led to highest quality attributes i.e. oil content (43.73%), protein content (30.8%) in seed which was at par with 100% N through pressmud + 40 kgha-1 S + 1% foliar sulphur spray (T4) which also resulted highest sulphur content (0.48%) in seed. The maximum gross return (Rs. 104664 ha-1), net return (Rs. 59049 ha-1) and benefit cost rato (1.29) obtained from treatment containing 100% RDF + 40 kgh-1 sulphur + 1% foliar sulphur spray (T2). It was observed that foliar application of sulphur enhanced the yield whereas application of organic manures improved the quality of canola.
Kinerja Organisasi Kemahasiswaan Hubungannya dengan Terminologi Human Capital
Authors: Setyowulan Dese , Lia Nadia Tri Asfa , Azizah Rafidah , Sunandar Asep , Adha Maulana Amirul
Published: April 2021

This study aims to determine, 1) the level of human capital of student organizations, (2) the level of student organization performance, (3) the relationship of human capital to the performance of student organizations in the Faculty of Education (FIP) Malang State University (UM). This research uses a quantitative approach with a descriptive correlational research design. The research instrument used was a questionnaire with respondent members of student organizations in FIP UM. The analysis technique used in this research is descriptive analysis and correlation. The results of this study indicate: (1) the level of human capital of student organizations in the Faculty of Education UM is quite good; (2) the level of performance of student organizations in the Faculty of Education UM is quite good and (3) there is a positive and significant relationship between human capital on the performance of student organizations in the Faculty of Education, State University of Malang.
Son Sınıf Hemşirelik Öğrencilerinin Koronavirüs Salgını Sürecinde Klinik Uygulamalarda Yaşadıkları Kaygılar
Authors: YILMAZ Şerife , BÜYÜKÖZTÜRK Meltem
Published: April 2021

Araştırma son sınıf hemşirelik öğrencilerinin koronavirüs salgını sürecinde klinik uygulamada yaşadıkları kaygıyı belirlemek amacıyla duygu, düşünce ve deneyimlerini daha iyi değerlendirme olanağı verdiği için niteliksel yöntemlerden biri olan odak grup görüşme tekniği kullanılarak yapılmıştır. Veri toplama aracı olarak, araştırmacılar tarafından hazırlanan, öğrencilerin tanımlayıcı özelliklerini içeren soru formu ve “Yarı Yapılandırılmış Görüşme Formu” kullanılmıştır. Etik kurul izni alınmıştır. Katılımcılara çalışma hakkında bilgi verilip, bilgilendirilmiş onamları alınmıştır. Araştırmanın verileri içerik analizi kullanılarak analiz edilmiş ve öğrencilerin yaşadığı duygular, uygulama sürecinde yaşanan sorunlar, pandemi sürecinin hemşirelik eğitimine etkisi konusunda görüşler ve öneriler olmak üzere dört tema belirlenmiştir. Öğrencilerin koronavirüse yakalanma, temaslı olma, ailelerine, hastalara ya da sağlık çalışanlarına bulaştırma ve taşıyıcı olma, eğitimlerinin kesintiye uğraması konusunda kaygı yaşadığı, yaşadıkları kaygıların klinik uygulamaya başladıktan sonra arttığı, uygulamaların verimsiz geçtiği ve bakım verici rollerini yerine getirmede zorlandıkları belirlenmiştir.
The phenomenon of “legal force”: methodological approaches
Authors: Larina Elena A.
Published: April 2021

The study reveals some of the phenomenon of legal force features, which is an integral element of regulatory legal acts, as well as contracts, electronic documents that act as regulators of public relations. The purpose is to determine the methodological approaches with the help of which it is pos-sible to study this phenomenon more fully, as well as to identify the short-comings of the existing approaches. The dialectical-materialistic method, general scientific methods, special legal methods are used as methods. In the course of the research, we turn to such methodological approaches as histori-cal, logical, hermeneutic, comparative, systemic, synergistic, humanistic, cy-bernetic, structural, functional. A brief description of them is given (the fea-tures are determined, the views of legal scholars on these methodological ap-proaches and the applicability of such approaches in relation to the study of the phenomenon of legal force are reflected). We come to the conclusion about the insufficiency of the currently existing research methodological ap-proaches in relation to the category of “legal force” and determine some prospects for the development of this topic. We prove that methodological approaches allow us to study not only the features of the category of “legal force” (classification, purpose, etc.), but also the specifics of acts, documents, the process of their adoption, application.
Artificial intelligence: criminal and procedural aspects
Authors: Kartashov Igor I. , Kartashov Ivan I.
Published: April 2021

For millennia, mankind has dreamed of creating an artificial creature capable of thinking and acting “like human beings”. These dreams are gradually starting to come true. The trends in the development of modern so-ciety, taking into account the increasing level of its informatization, require the use of new technologies for information processing and assistance in de-cision-making. Expanding the boundaries of the use of artificial intelligence requires not only the establishment of ethical restrictions, but also gives rise to the need to promptly resolve legal problems, including criminal and proce-dural ones. This is primarily due to the emergence and spread of legal expert systems that predict the decision on a particular case, based on a variety of parameters. Based on a comprehensive study, we formulate a definition of artificial intelligence suitable for use in law. It is proposed to understand artificial intelligence as systems capable of interpreting the received data, making optimal decisions on their basis using self-learning (adaptation). The main directions of using artificial intelligence in criminal proceedings are: search and generalization of judicial practice; legal advice; preparation of formalized documents or statistical reports; forecasting court decisions; predictive jurisprudence. Despite the promise of using artificial intelligence, there are a number of problems associated with a low level of reliability in predicting rare events, self-excitation of the system, opacity of the algorithms and architecture used, etc.
The institution of term within the framework of a state (municipal) contract: concept, types, issues in their definition and calculation
Authors: Kramskoy Vadim V.
Published: April 2021

We consider the institution of term for the purposes of its use in the provisions of state (municipal) contracts concluded for the procurement of goods, works, services to meet state and municipal needs. The main purpose is to systematize the provisions of the legislation on the contractual system concerning legal regulation of setting terms within the framework of state (municipal) contracts and posing the problem of their inconsistent legal regulation, which negatively affects the process of positive law enforcement. At the same time, the research emphasis is made on identifying the differ-ences in the legislative approach to regulating the procedure for calculating certain types of terms within the framework of a state (municipal) contract. In particular, we analyze the selectivity in the issue of choosing the terms duration for the performance of legally significant actions depending on the status of the procurement participant, we investigate the issues of the expediency of using different terms’ measurement units, including within the same subinstitutions of the term, etc. We present our own ideas for optimizing legislation in this matter. The methodological basis of the research is made up of analysis and synthesis methods, formal legal, comparative legal methods, a pluralistic approach is taken to highlight the issues involved.
Representación social del psicólogo organizacional en estudiantes y docentes de psicología de universidades públicas y privadas de Lima Metropolitana
Authors:   , Dominguez Talledo Brenda Lizet
Published: April 2021

La presente investigación tuvo como propósito analizar las representaciones sociales del rol del psicólogo organizacional en estudiantes y docentes de universidad públicas y privadas de Lima Metropolitana. Así, se buscó analizar la información objetiva y subjetiva; el campo de representación expresado en percepciones positivas o negativas; como también las actitudes de aceptación o rechazo, en cuanto al rol del psicólogo organizacional. La investigación fue de enfoque cualitativo, y de diseño fenomenológico hermenéutico. Se realizaron 12 entrevistas semiestructuradas, las cuales se analizaron con el software especializado ATLAS.ti 8.4. Los resultados evidenciaron que, si bien el rol del psicólogo organizacional es bastante claro en docentes, en los estudiantes, tanto de primeros ciclos como de últimos ciclos, existe falta de información lo cual orienta a la organización a reemplazar este rol con profesionales de otra especialidad debido además que se puede percibir cierta limitación sobre las funciones que podría llegar a desarrollar. Por tanto, se concluye que el psicólogo organizacional está sujeto al conocimiento subjetivo del rol que cumple en la actualidad, siendo su tendencia a la aceptación, mas no siendo involucrado en funciones o actividades de mayor impacto en la organización, limitando su potencial como profesional.
Dificultades de una política común en la Unión Europea ante la crisis de los refugiados, 2015 – 2017
Authors:   , Velasquez Cabrera Jaime Cristhian
Published: April 2021

Desde el año 2015 se ha podido presenciar un gran desplazamiento de habitantes hacia territorio europeo, este flujo migratorio no se había visto desde la Segunda Guerra Mundial. Las políticas existentes de la Unión Europea para hacerle frente al flujo migratorio no estaban hechas para las dimensiones del flujo que se suscito desde el año 2015 por lo que un replanteamiento en las políticas existentes era necesario, para poder preservar el bienestar común en los países miembros de la Unión Europea. En esta tesis nos enfocaremos en reconocer las dificultades que tiene el bloque para adoptar políticas comunes que ayuden a hacerle frente a la crisis, esto con una investigación sobre las bases de la Unión Europea, los efectos que ha tenido en la política y la sociedad europea y también la repercusión en el Sistema Internacional. Las dificultades en la adopción de políticas comunes para hacerle frente a la crisis de los refugiados giran también en torno a las diferentes realidades y capacidades que tienen sus actores principales, en este caso los países que forman parte de la Unión Europea, para poder adoptar dichas medidas que implementa el bloque.
Plasmonic Properties of Bimetallic Quantum Dot Ag@Au Core-Shell Nanostructures Embedded in Non-Absorptive Host Medium
Authors: Kassahun Gashaw Beyene Beyene
Published: April 2021

This studies the plasmonic properties of the bimetallic quantum dot Ag@Au core-shell nanostructures embedded in the non-absorbent host medium. Local field enhancement factor and coefficient of absorption of Ag-core and Au-shell are primarily studied based on quasi-static approximation of classical electrodynamics for 6-10 nm composite radius. In this quantum dot geometry, two set of plasmonic resonances in visible spectral region are observed: the first resonance associated with inner interface of gold (Ag@Au) and the second resonance associated with outer interface of gold (Au@medium). The two plasmonic resonances are close each other and enhanced when the size of composite decreased for a fixed core size while shifted to in opposite direction and the amplitude of peak decreased when the core size is increased for a fixed composite size. For the optimized size of core/composite or shell thickness and other parameters to the desired values, such type of composites are recommended for various applications like; photocatalysis, biomedical, nano-optoelectronics.
Advantages of a New Low-Cost Negative Pressure Wound Therapy Using the “Turtle VAC”
Authors: Barau Dejean J.M. Christina , Pean J.T. Marc-Alain , Ottesen Taylor D. , Woolley Pierre Marie , Qudsi Rameez A. , Dyer George S.M.
Published: April 2021

Case:

We present a clinical case and technique guide demonstrating the use and effectiveness of a novel, low-cost negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) device to achieve soft-tissue coverage in a 34-year-old patient with failed rotational flap and Masquelet technique on infected tibial nonunion. Local debridement was executed, NPWT initiated, and treatment culminated with complete wound healing.

Conclusion:

The “Turtle VAC” offers an effective low-cost alternative to commercially vacuum-assisted closure systems for post-traumatic wounds in low-resource setting of Haiti. Its use of available equipment makes NPWT accessible and can function as a bridge to definitive closure when primary wound closure is not possible and/or between debridement procedures.
Strategi Pendidikan Nilai Sebagai Pembentuk Kepribadian Siswa Di Sekolah
Authors: Dewi Rinita Rosalinda , Hidayat Mufid , Suabuana Cik
Published: April 2021

Value education is a conscious and planned effort to help students recognize the values that must be used as a guide in behaving and behaving in everyday life. The purpose of this research was to determine the value education strategy as forming the personality of students in schools, especially at the elementary school level. SDN Nagreg 04 is one of the elementary schools that instill value education as a way of shaping the personality of students so that they become personal benefits for others. This research uses descriptive qualitative methods and uses data collection techniques through observation, interviews, and documentation studies. Based on research results show that the value education strategy as forming the personality of students in schools can be started from the curriculum and tools such as syllabus and lesson plans, plan various programs that can support the process of value education to students, integrated with teaching and learning activities, and through collaboration between schools, parents, and society.
Pengaruh Penggunaan Media Pembelajaran Berbasis Vectorian Giotto terhadap Motivasi dan Hasil Belajar Siswa SDIT Di Kabupaten Oku Timur
Authors: Anti Andini Nesi , Amaliah Khusnatul , Ariyansyah
Published: April 2021

Utilization of media learning based on ICT, especially in the eyes of subjects IPA at the level of elementary school can optimize the process of learning the teaching that takes place. This is very relevant when using learning media to convey information. One of the media that can support is Vectorian Giotto. Research objectives This is to explain the effect of using vectoriangiotto based learning media on the motivation and learning outcomes SDIT students in East OKUT. This research is quantitative with a quasi- experimental type. Population and samples were used in the study amounted to 136 students. Data collection techniques: observation, tests, and questionnaires. Data analysis techniques, descriptive statistical techniques and inferential statistical techniques. Descriptive analysis results; The mean scores of motivationand learning outcomes for grade IV were 79.26 and 93.33. results of statistical inferential by using test wilcoxion obtained value Asymp . Sig. (2-tailed) for 0000 is smaller than 0.05, means that there is the influence of the media learning based vectoriangiotto with the results of learning. To see the motivation of students to use the medium of learning obtained a value of 0.000 is smaller than 0.05, which means that there is the influence of the media learning based vectoriangiotto with the motivation to learn.
Gut Bacterial Inhabitants of Open Nested Honey Bee, Apis Florea
Authors: Ganeshprasad D.N. , Jani Kunal , Shouche Yogesh S. , Sneharani A H
Published: April 2021

Honey bees are complex social system, which are highly dynamic having close interactions with their surrounding environment. Gut microbiota of honey bees has a major role in interaction behavior with its environment and health. Apis florea is the primitive among all the honey bees and are indigenous to Indian subcontinent. The study reports the identification and analysis of bacteria in the gut of wild species of honey bee, Apis florea, by culture-based and culture-independent methods. Cultured bacteria were identified and characterized by MALDI-TOF MS and 16S rRNA sequencing. A comprehensive analysis and identification of non-culturable bacteria were performed by 16S rRNA amplicon next generation sequencing. The sequence analysis approach classified gut bacteria into 5 bacterial phyla, 8 families and 10 genera in major. The dominant bacterial taxa identified in Apis florea belonged to Prevotellaceae (52.1%), Enterobacteriaceae (42.7%) and Halobacteriaceae (1.3%). The dominant bacteria belonged to genera of Prevotella, Escherichia-Shigella, Natronomonas, Methylobacterium, Pantoea, Bifidobacterium, Enterobacter, Klebsiella, Lactobacillus and Nitrobacter belonging to phyla Bacteroidetes, Proteobacteria, Euryarchaeota, Actinobacteria, and Firmicutes. Many of these bacteria identified herewith are not reported for their occurrence in others species of Apis genus making this study of highly relevance with respect to bee microbiome.
Analysis of Anterior Segment Parameters and Wavefront Aberrations of the Myopic Eyes Using Two Scheimpflug-based Devices: The Pentacam vs Sirius
Authors: Mirzajani Ali , Vishteh Rasoul Amini , Masroor Rezvan
Published: April 2021

Purpose: To measurements, comparisons, and agreement of the anterior segment parameters and wavefront aberrations of the myopic eyes through the Pentacam and Sirius tomography systems. Methods: The Pentacam and Sirius were used to measure the corneal anterior segment tomography and wavefront aberrations of the myopic eyes with a mean age of 25.66±3.77 (range from 19 to 31 years).Various parameters such as the anterior keratometric reading of the flattest meridian K1, anterior K2, thinnest corneal thickness, corneal surface asphericity Q-value, anterior chamber depth, Root mean square (RMS) of higher-order aberrations, RMS of lower-order aberrations, and RMS of total aberrations were analyzed. Also, the agreement between the Pentacam and Sirius was assessed by calculating 95% limits of agreement and plotting the Bland–Altman graphs.Results: One eye of 99 myopic subjects (49 men, 50 women) aged 19 to 31 years was randomized and evaluated. All measured parameters of the Pentacam and Sirius tomography systems were statistically significant (p<0.001) in comparison with each other expect the mean values of K1, K2, and thinnest corneal thickness (p>0.05). The thinnest corneal thickness findings showed the poorest agreement (95 %limit of agreement from -8.71 to 24.21) and the greatest difference (mean difference: 7.75).Conclusions: The differences between the gained measurement results of the devices suggests that they should not be used interchangeably for corneal tomography imaging in clinical practice and surgery decision.
Diagnostic Timelines and Self-reported Symptoms of Patients With Lung and Gastrointestinal Cancers Undergoing Radiation Therapy
Authors: Yannitsos Demetra , Barbera Lisa , Al-Rashdan Abdullah , Grendarova Petra
Published: April 2021

Background: Previous studies have found that patients with lung cancer report worse patient experience compared to other tumour groups. Reasons that may negatively impact patient experience include delays in diagnosis as well as inadequate symptom management. The purpose of this study was to compare the diagnostic timelines and symptom reports of patients with lung and gastrointestinal (GI) cancers. Methods: This study included patients diagnosed with lung or GI cancers who attended a radiation oncology (RO) consultation and/or received radiation treatment between May and August 2019. Data collected included demographics, dates of diagnostic time points and self-reported symptom scores across 3 time points. A descriptive analysis was completed and the median number of days between time points were compared between tumour groups.Results: Patients with lung cancer experienced a greater diagnostic delay compared to GI patients, specifically regarding the median number of days between the first investigative test and biopsy, with a difference of 21 days between tumour groups (p<0.05). From RO consultation to the first treatment review appointment, 25% and 4% of lung and GI patients, respectively, reported worsening of symptoms. A greater proportion of lung patients reported worse symptoms scores during treatment compared to GI patients. This varied by specific symptom. Conclusions: Delays in receiving a diagnosis and worse symptom experience during radiation treatment were demonstrated in this study and may indicate potential targets to improve patient experience.
Single Image Super Resolution of Blurred Natural Images Using Blur Kernel Estimation Combined with Super Resolution Convolution Neural Network
Authors: P LISHA P , K Jayasree V
Published: April 2021

Image De-blurring and super-resolution (SR) are computer vision tasks aiming to restore image detail and spatial scale, respectively. Despite the significant improvement in image quality resulting from improvement in optical sensors and general electronics, camera shake blur significantly undermines the quality of hand-held photographs. We evaluated the state-of-the-art super-resolution convolution neural network(SR-CNN) architecture and proposed a new architecture for SR application inspired by SR-CNN combined with De-blurring. This paper focus super resolution of a de-focussed and motion blurred natural images. Unlike most de-blurring methods that attempt to solve an inverse problem through a variational formulation, deblurring method applied in this work directly estimates the blur kernel by modeling statistical irregularities in the power spectrum of blurred natural images. Extensive experiments indicate that the proposed method not only generates remarkably clear HR images, but also achieves compelling results in PSNR, MSE and SSIM quantitatively.
Determinants of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Frontline Health Care Givers During the First Wave of Covid-19 in Africa: a Multi-centers Online Cross-sectional
Authors: Kamabu Larrey Kasereka , Lekuya Hervé Monka , Kasusula Bienvenu Muhindo , Sikakulya Franck Katembo , Valimungighe Moise Muhindo , Nganza Sifa Katungu , Butala Eric Sadiki , Sikiminya Zacharie Muhindo , Kathaka Louange Maha , Munyambalu Dalton Kambale , Longombe Thérèse Yenyi Ahuka , Katsioto Agnès Kavira , Mumbere Bienfait , Nzanzu Adelard Kalima , Kavughe Frederic , Kambere Thaddée Katembo , Robinson Ssebuufu
Published: April 2021

Background: During its first wave in sub-Saharan Africa, there was insufficient understanding of the new pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) among frontline health care professionals that has led to a misidentification, and mistreatment of affected patients, with a potential risks of contacting and spreading the disease. This study was carried out to determine the knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) of frontline health care givers (HCGs) towards COVID-19 in Africa and their related factors.Methods: This was a multi-centers online cross-sectional study conducted over a 3-months study-period using a google survey link among front lines African HCGs in the COVID-19 response units within 28 African countries. Bivariate and Multivariate logistic regression were used to assess the associations between co-variates. Statistical significance was set at p≤ 0.05 and 95% confidence interval. Results: There a total of 518 out of 588 approached HCGs participated in the study from 28 African countries. Overall, 496 (96%) had bad practice score, and 405 (78%) had positive attitude regarding COVID-19. The related factors of KAP towards COVID-19 identified were the lack of self- esteem and self-confidence in the management of COVID-19 (aOR: - 0.17, 95% CI=-0.766 to -4.33, p >0.05), Ignorance (aOR: 1.55, 95% CI=1.003 to 2.402, p <0.048), lack of knowledge updates on COVID-19 (aOR: 1.81, 95% CI=1.105 to 2.951, p <0.018).Conclusions: Majority of the frontline HCG has an overall good knowledge and attitude towards the disease across the African continents regardless of their level of study. However, the KAP is influenced negatively by the lack of self-esteem, self- confidence, ignorance, and insufficiency of frequent update of COVID-19 information. Promoting psychological support in addition to regular trainings could help to enhance the KAP of frontline HCG in African region.
Using the Deep Convolutional Neural Network to Evaluate Thyroid Nodules With Atypia of Undetermined Significance/follicular Lesion of Undetermined Significance Cytology: Multicenter Study
Authors: Youn Inyoung , Lee Eunjung , Yoon Jung Hyun , Lee Hye Sun , Kwon Mi-Ri , Moon Juhee , Kang Sunyoung , Kwon Seulki , Jung Kyong Yeun , Park Young Joo , Park Do Joon , Cho Sun Wook , Kwak Jin Young
Published: April 2021

To compare the diagnostic performances of physicians and a deep convolutional neural network (CNN) predicting malignancy with ultrasonography images of thyroid nodules with atypia of undetermined significance (AUS)/follicular lesion of undetermined significance (FLUS) results on fine-needle aspiration (FNA). This study included 202 patients with 202 nodules ≥ 1cm AUS/FLUS on FNA, and underwent surgery in one of 3 different institutions. Diagnostic performances were compared between 8 physicians (4 radiologists, 4 endocrinologists) with varying experience levels and CNN, and AUS/FLUS subgroups were analyzed. Interobserver variability was assessed among the 8 physicians. Of the 202 nodules, 158 were AUS, and 44 were FLUS; 86 were benign, and 116 were malignant. The area under the curves (AUCs) of the 8 physicians and CNN were 0.680-0.722 and 0.666, without significant differences (P > 0.05). In the subgroup analysis, the AUCs for the 8 physicians and CNN were 0.657–0.768 and 0.652 for AUS, 0.469-0.674 and 0.622 for FLUS. Interobserver agreements were moderate (k=0.543), substantial (k=0.652), and moderate (k=0.455) among the 8 physicians, 4 radiologists, and 4 endocrinologists. For thyroid nodules with AUS/FLUS cytology, the diagnostic performance of CNN to differentiate malignancy with US images was comparable to that of physicians with variable experience levels.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome in Canadian Adults: Profiling Demographic and Socioeconomic Factors, Mental Health Diagnoses and Conditions, and Life Experiences
Authors: Renouf Alysha , Fowler Ken , Wareham-Fowler Stacey
Published: April 2021

Background: Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a debilitating condition characterized by a complex assortment of biological, psychological, and functional issues. In the literature, while a debate persists in terms of CFS etiology and treatment options, very rudimentary queries also linger in terms of associated CFS demographic and socioeconomic characteristics, comorbid psychiatric diagnoses, and potentially deleterious life challenges and experiences which, if more definitively clarified, may help elucidate illness origin and management. Methods: Using data extracted from the Canadian Community Health Survey – Mental Health (CCHS-MH) (Statistics Canada, 2013) for adults aged 20 to 64 years of age, the current study developed a descriptive statistical profile of demographic, socioeconomic, psychiatric, and life experience characteristics of Canadians reporting a diagnosis of CFS. Further, a series of two-factor Chi Square tests were carried out to determine whether featured variables were significantly more likely for CFS sufferers as compared to adult Canadians without a CFS diagnosis. Results: It was observed that those reporting a CFS diagnosis were significantly more likely to be female, between the ages of 45-64, divorced or separated, living alone, unemployed or unable to work, and of relatively low personal income. CFS sufferers were also more likely to have comorbid psychiatric diagnoses including lifetime and 12-month Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), and substance dependence, as well as self-reported posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), sleeping troubles, and reported histories of childhood physical and sexual maltreatment. Conclusions: A very compelling demographic, socioeconomic, psychiatric, and life history profile of CFS sufferers emerged in this study, corroborating many findings in the literature. Since this study involved a national assessment CFS across Canada, it may afford some lucidity and insight in terms of etiological implications, and hence more precision in diagnosis, and potentially innovative treatment options. Future topics of inquiry, and potential limitations are also considered.
A New Explainable Robust High Order Intuitionistic Fuzzy Time Series Method
Authors: Kocak Cem , Eğrioğlu Erol , Bas Eren
Published: April 2021

Fuzzy time series forecasting methods based on type-1 fuzzy sets continue to have largely proposed in the literature. These methods use only membership values in determining fuzzy relations. However, Intuitionistic fuzzy time series models basically use both membership values and non-membership values. So, it can be considered that the using of intuitionistic fuzzy time forecasting models will be able to increase the forecasting performance in the fuzzy time series analyses because of the fact that more information is used. Therefore, Intuitionistic fuzzy time series models have started to use for solving the real-life series in the fuzzy time series literature since 2013. In this study, a new explainable robust high order intuitionistic fuzzy time series forecasting method are proposed based on new defined model. In the proposed method, the algorithm of intuitionistic fuzzy c-means is used for fuzzification of observations and a robust regression method is used to determine fuzzy relations. Because the robust regression is employed to define fuzzy relation, all inputs of the method can be explainable and they can be statistically tested and commented. Applications of this study have been made by using energy data of Primary Energy Consumption (PEC) between 1965 and 2016 for 23 countries in the region of Europe&Eurasia. Forecasting performances obtained from these applications by using the proposed method have been compared with performances of some other time series method in the literature and the results have been discussed.
CuCrO4 Nanoparticles Composite Modiﬁed Carbon Paste Electrodes for Sensitive Detection of Paracetamol: A Cyclic Voltammetric Study
Authors: R PRIYANKA S , K.P Latha
Published: April 2021

An electrochemical sensor containing carbon paste electrode (CPE) for paracetamol is developed and modified with the CuCrO4 Nanocomposites. The synthesised CuCrO4 Nanocomposites was discussed with X-Ray Diffraction studies. Experimental studies such as scan rate, concentration and pH was studied by using cyclic voltammetric method. The CuCrO4 Nanocomposites modified CPE (CuCrO4 Nanocomposites MCPE) exhibited excellent electrocatalytic response towards the oxidation of paracetamol (PC). Over potential for oxidation of PC was minimised which considerably enhance the current response on the CuCrO4 Nanocomposites MCPE when compared with bare carbon paste electrode (BCPE). Scan rate study for PC discuss the process of the electrode. Linear calibration curve was obtained with the range of 2 μM to 14 μM having the detection limit and quantification limit value of PC is discussed with CuCrO4 Nanocomposites MCPE. This study shows that electrochemical oxidation of PC at CuCrO4 Nanocomposites MCPE is pH dependent process.
A Study on Intelligent Grinding Systems With Industrial Perspective
Authors: Kuppuswamy Ramesh , Jani Fungai , Naidoo Samiksha , Jongh Quintin
Published: April 2021

The digitization thrust on high value manufacturing and services opens-up new opportunities for ensuring; total system uptime, reliability, and efficiency particularly for mission-critical high value assets. The digitization process evolves intelligent manufacturing systems (IMS) which transforms maintenance into predictive reliability for achieving consistent quality throughout manufacturing process. This article unveils the intelligent grinding systems (IGS) for challenging grinding applications. For a more in-depth understanding and analysis of an entire intelligent grinding system, particular aspects within the system were discussed. These include Grinding Models, Process Design Algorithms, Process Monitoring, Process Control, Feature Extraction and Feature Correlation engines. The main focus, especially in the early 2000s, was mainly database development and parameter selection, which then shifted to process monitoring and control as particular technology advances were made. In the various goals that were investigated, it was evident that researchers were aiming for an online real-time system. This notion was driven by the advances in artificial intelligence and improved monitoring sensors, for example, acoustic emission sensors and even other unusual sensors like microphones for more economical and improved data collection and analysis. Although tremendous strides have been made, a substantial amount of work is still required in achieving a fully-fledged real-time intelligent grinding system. The comprehensive findings on IGS system concludes that the real time process update has been improved from few hours to milliseconds.
Differentiation Between Sepsis Survivors and Sepsis Non-survivors Through Blood Serum Metabolomics: A Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (NMR) Study.
Authors: S Naveen kumar M , Kumar Virendra , R Jagannathan N , Sinha Sanjeev , Mewar Sujeet , Kumar Pradeep
Published: April 2021

Sepsis is a life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to infection. Septic shock is a subset of sepsis with underlying circulatory cellular and metabolic abnormalities associated with higher mortality rates. However, a detailed understanding of sepsis is still limited. The present study reports the differences in the metabolic profile of serum samples of patients with sepsis compared to healthy controls using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. The study also compares the NMR metabolomics on day zero of admission among sepsis survivors (those who survived till day seven) and sepsis non-survivors (those who succumbed on day zero). Furthermore, the different metabolites in serum were analysed by univariate and multivariate analysis, ROC analysis, principal component analysis (PCA), partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) and orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) methods. Metabolites with VIP score (>1·0) were considered as potential biomarker/s to discriminate sepsis survivors from non- survivors at day zero. Data showed that phenylalanine was significantly higher in sepsis patients compared to healthy controls, whereas isoleucine, valine and histidine were significantly lower in sepsis patients compared to healthy controls. Also, non-survivors had higher serum levels of creatine, phosphocreatine, choline, betaine, tyrosine, histidine and phenylalanine concentrations than survivors. These findings suggest that the metabolic alterations at day zero may predict the survival of patients with sepsis. The significant differences seen in metabolites concentration of amino acids, phospholipids and creatine may be used as early prognostic markers to discriminate non-survivors from survivors of sepsis patients at day zero. Our findings indicate that the metabolite alterations are associated with the progression of the disease.
Heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A2B1, a novel drug target for hepatitis B virus infection
Authors: Xu Min , Chen Yu , Yuan Hao-Yan , Shen Yue-Hai , Xiang Jia-Yao , Luo Jia , Chen Hao , Wu Jun-Qi , Xiang Cheng , Li Ya-Ming , Feng Yang , Li Hai-Zhou , Yin Yue , Lin Jing-Min , Ge Long-Jiao , Zhao San-Jun , Quinn Ronald , Dai Shao-Xing , Zuo Da-Ming
Published: April 2021

HBV infection is a major global health burden that needs novel immunotherapeutic approaches. Herein, we show that heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A2B1 (hnRNPA2B1) is a novel drug target for HBV infection. We reveal the new target with highly selective probes of PAC5, a natural sesquiterpene derivative. PAC5 show potent anti-HBV activity in vivo and in vitro. Further studies on its mode of action indicate that PAC5 binds to the residue Asp49 and a deep groove in the RNA recognition motif1 (RRM1) region of hnRNPA2B1. PAC5-bound hnRNPA2B1 is activated, dimerized, and translocated to the cytoplasm where it activates the TBK1-IRF3 pathway, leading to the production of type I interferons (IFNs). Furthermore, PAC5 also suppresses other viral replications, such as SARS-CoV-2 and vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV). Our results indicate that PAC5 is the first small molecule agonist of hnRNPA2B1, a drug target potentially valid for broad-spectrum viral infections, providing a novel strategy for viral immunotherapy.