bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
M-polynomial and topological indices of some transformed networks
Authors: Yu Fei ,   Anhui Vocational college of Electronics and Information Technology, Bengbu 233000, Anhui, China, Iqbal Hifza , Munir Saira , Liu Jia Bao ,   Department of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Lahore, Raiwind Road Campus, Lahore 54000, Pakistan,   School of Mathematics and Physics, Anhui Jianzhu University, Hefei 230601, China
Published: September 2021

In the chemical industry, topological indices play an important role in defining the properties of chemical compounds. They are numerical parameters and structure invariant. It is a proven fact by scientists that topological properties are influential tools for interconnection networks. In this paper, we will use stellation, medial and bounded dual operations to build transformed networks from zigzag and triangular benzenoid structures. Using M-polynomial, we compute the first and second Zagreb indices, second modified Zagreb indices, symmetric division index, general Randic index, reciprocal general Randic index. We also calculate atomic bond connectivity index, geometric arithmetic index, harmonic index, first and second Gourava indices, first and second hyper Gourava indices.
Virtual Laboratory and Mobile Devices as a Support Tool for the Teaching-Learning Processes of Physics in Pandemic Times
Authors: Chiodi Gustavo Alberto , Soutadet Aaron Jose , Bosio Maria Alejandra
Published: September 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic forced universities to close their doors creating the largest disruption of education systems in history. It was necessary to find new ways and new alternatives to classical teaching methods. This paper presents the proposal made by the Faculty of Engineering of the Catholic University of Cordoba (UCC) for the continuity of practical laboratory work in the teaching of Physics. To this end, the data obtained from a survey of university students at the end of the academic year 2020 are analyzed. The survey covers first-year students, as well as students from higher education who took Physics I under the classroom modality. It should be noted that the number of students in the Faculty of Engineering of the UCC is very small to obtain conclusive results in a first research, therefore, the authors consider that the project is at an introductory stage that, in the future, will continue to pursue. So far, the results showed that the application of Physics laboratory experiences through simulation can become an excellent tool to facilitate students' understanding of abstract and complex concepts in the face of lack of presence.
Monitoring and Security of Fiber Optic Lines in Cloud Computing within the Operation of Remote Laboratories
Authors: Beňo Pavel , Schauer František , Šprinková Sandra , Komenda Tomáš
Published: September 2021

In this article, we want to point out what security and monitoring of fiber optics are. By increasing the number of RLs and, of course, connecting several locations through FO, we were able to build a cloud solution with a high level of security. However, the distance between the Datacentres (DTCs) is often large and there are many pitfalls on the road associated with the operation of the optical path, so we were forced to find a suitable monitoring solution. The main problems described are the bending or kinking of the optical fiber as well as the need for monitoring the safety of the fiber at the lowest level. In this article, we will describe how we have dealt with this issue and we will also mention specific cases where our monitoring system was very useful for us. With the help of it, we eliminated problems faster than we could have done in a common situation while waiting for an Internet Service Provider (ISP), etc.
The Relationship between Usage of Digital Devices and Musculoskeletal Symptoms: A Cross-Sectional Study among University Students in Sarawak
Authors: Myint Wai Wai , Saimon Rosalia , Abdul Majid Nur Nazatul Nazira , Saripuddin Mastura Binti , Rajan Ragavinotini A/P
Published: September 2021

Digital devices such as mobile phone, personal computer and laptop are playing a major role in students’ life, but if overused they can bring certain impacts on the musculoskeletal system. Objective: To determine the relationship between usage of digital devices and musculoskeletal symptoms among the university students. Methods: A self-administered questionnaire consist of digital devices use items and the Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Question (CMDQ) were administered among 363 311 university students. Correlation analysis was done by using the SPSS software. Results: The mean age of study respondents was 21.6 years old (SD=1.0). A majority of respondents use mobile phone (94.9%) on a prolonged sitting position ranging from 5.0 to 7.5 hours per day. About 32% to 60% of respondents experienced musculoskeletal discomfort in at least one body part at least one on their body parts, with higher prevalence on the neck, shoulder, lower back, and upper back. Females are more prone to experience musculoskeletal symptoms. Time spent on digital devices, eye-to-screen distance, body posture, and age of first use were significantly correlated with musculoskeletal symptoms. Conclusions: University students are at a higher risk to experience musculoskeletal symptoms related to the usage of a handheld digital device. If these musculoskeletal symptoms are not prevented, it may further cause dysfunction and disability. To mitigate these problems, some form of targeted health promotion initiative need to be implemented in the university.
Taking the Straight Path. P.F. Strawson's Later Work on Freedom and Responsibility
Authors: De Mesel Benjamin
Published: September 2021

I highlight three features of P.F. Strawson’s later, neglected work on freedom and responsibility. First, in response to a criticism by Rajendra Prasad, Strawson explicitly rejects an argument put forward in ‘Freedom and Resentment’ against the relevance of determinism to moral responsibility. Second, his remarkable acceptance of Prasad’s criticism motivates him to take the ‘straight path’, that is, to be straightforward about the relation between determinism, freedom, the ability to do otherwise and the conditions of responsibility. He claims that the ability to do otherwise is a necessary condition of responsibility and provides a list of additional conditions, including a knowledge condition. Third, he clarifies the relation between responsibility, quality of will and the reactive attitudes. The latter do not figure essentially in his answer to the question, ‘What are the conditions of responsibility?’, but they do play an essential role in his answer to the question, ‘Why do we have the concept of responsibility?’ We have it, Strawson suggests, because of our natural concern about the quality of will with which people act, a concern expressed in our reactive attitudes. I argue that, although Strawson’s later work definitely involves a shift of emphasis when compared to ‘Freedom and Resentment’, his overall account of freedom and responsibility is coherent. The later work helps to better understand the nature and significance of Strawson’s contribution, and to identify problems with common interpretations of and objections to ‘Freedom and Resentment’. 
Mass gap problem and Planck constant
Authors: Šorli Amrit S. , Čelan Štefan
Published: September 2021

The mass gap problem is about defining the constant that defines the minimal excitation of the vacuum. Planck’s constant is defining the minimal possible excitation of the vacuum from the point of quantum mechanics. The mass gap problem can be solved in quantum mechanics by the
formulation of the photon’s mass according to the Planck‐Einstein relation.
An allgravity as a grand unification of forces
Authors: Sharafiddinov Rasulkhozha S.
Published: September 2021

Each type of Coulomb (Newton) charge corresponds to a kind of Coulomb (Newton) mass. Such a mass-charge duality principle explains the availability of the united rest mass and charge in a neutrino equal to all its mass and charge consisting of the electric, weak, and strong components
and the range of other innate components. A neutrino itself, similarly to all other quantum matter with Coulomb (Newton) mass and charge, testifies hereby in favor of a kind of mononeutrino with magnetocoulomb (magnetonewton) rest mass and charge equal to all its mass and charge including
the magnetoelectric, magnetoweak, and magnetostrong parts and the range of other innate parts. We discuss a theory in which symmetry between electricity and magnetism comes forward at the level of a grand unification mathematical logic as the defined symmetry between gravity and magnetogravity
within the same allgravity responsible for all that in a curved space-time. This allgravity relates a graviton and a monograviton as a consequence of force unification forming a single allgraviton. Thereby, it establishes a set of forces and the role of mass and charge in their formation and
thus directly reveals the most diverse properties of a curved space that have remained hitherto latent.
Desempenho de mercado e a distribuição de dividendos em empresas pertencentes ao BRICS
Authors: Degenhart Larissa , Da Silva Tarcísio Pedro , Nakamura Wilson Toshiro
Published: September 2021

Este estudo objetivou analisar a influência do desempenho de mercado na distribuição de dividendos de empresas pertencentes ao BRICS. Realizou-se pesquisa descritiva, documental e quantitativa, por meio da regressão de dados em painel. A amostra constituiu-se de 299 empresas do Brasil, 636 da Rússia, 1195 da Índia, 1807 da China e 271 da África do Sul. Os resultados indicaram diante da influência do desempenho de mercado na distribuição de dividendos que o índice PCD apresenta influência na distribuição de dividendos de empresas do Brasil, Rússia, China e África do Sul e o índice PSR revelou-se significativo e positivo para esta relação na Índia e África do Sul. A taxa de inflação, assimetria de informação e o desempenho de mercado, apresentaram influência na distribuição de dividendos nas empresas dos países da China e África do Sul. Estes resultados revelam que os fatores macroeconômicos e de assimetria de informação não podem ser desconsiderados, pois auxiliam na explicação do comportamento das empresas no mercado financeiro. Concluiu-se que há influência do desempenho de mercado na determinação do pagamento de dividendos nos países BRICS, pois os resultados revelaram que quanto maior é o índice PSR que indica o valor do patrimônio em relação as receitas das empresas e o índice PDC que representa a proporção dos lucros que são destinados aos acionistas, mais favorável tende a ser a distribuição de dividendos. A contribuição da pesquisa é o estabelecimento de uma relação direta entre desempenho de mercado e distribuição de dividendos. Os resultados auxiliarão os gestores e investidores na tomada de decisões financeiras.
Do financial constraints impact the technical efficiency of agricultural cooperatives? evidence from Brazil
Authors: Schaefer Vanessa , Eça João Paulo Augusto , Moraes Marcelo Botelho da Costa , Rezende Amaury José
Published: September 2021

Agricultural cooperatives have the main goals of meeting the economic, social and cultural needs of their members. Although they do not seek profits, they must be competitive since they compete with other cooperatives and companies in the market. In this sense, the search for technical efficiency to give cooperatives a better market position contrasts with the difficulty these organizations face in obtaining foreign capital to enable greater investments. There is little empirical evidence, however, of the relationship between financial constraints and technical efficiency in these organizations. According to theoretical assumptions, this relationship could be positive or negative. Thus, this paper analyzes the impact of financial constraints on the technical efficiency of Brazilian agricultural cooperatives. For this, we used two metrics to measure financial constraint and analyzed panel data on 68 Brazilian agricultural cooperatives for the 2005-2014 period. Despite the theoretical predictions, our main results suggest there is no evidence that financial constraints affect technical efficiency. This result can be explained by the characteristics attributed to Brazilian cooperatives, that is, the fact they deal with different commodities (multi-purpose) and do not have strong demand for investments (technology). This paper contributes to the literature both by providing new empirical evidence regarding the relationship between technical efficiency and financial constraints and by introducing a new metric for analyzing financial constraint in the context of cooperatives.
Reflexos dos controles formais e informais e da aprendizagem na inovação em empresas do porto digital
Authors: Haussmann Darclê Costa Silva , Beuren Ilse Maria , Klann Roberto Carlos
Published: September 2021

Este estudo objetiva analisar os reflexos dos controles formais e informais e da aprendizagem na inovação em empresas do Porto Digital. Uma pesquisa de levantamento foi realizada no Porto Digital, um parque tecnológico com 258 empresas que atuam nas áreas de tecnologia da informação e comunicação, economia criativa e empresas incubadas, no Recife, PE, Brasil. O questionário foi enviado aos gestores destas empresas pela plataforma Google Forms e a amostra compõe-se dos 62 questionários válidos. Para a análise dos dados aplicou-se a técnica de Modelagem de Equações Estruturais (SEM-PLS). Os resultados revelaram que os controles informais e a aprendizagem refletem de forma positiva e significativa, tanto direta quanto indiretamente, na inovação. No entanto, não foram observados reflexos significativos dos controles formais na aprendizagem e na inovação. Concluiu-se que os controles informais, quando analisados os efeitos diretos na aprendizagem, produzem efeitos positivos e significativos, refletindo indiretamente na inovação. Enquanto, que os controles formais, apesar da indicação de uso de alguns controles de avaliação financeira, não se mostraram tão presentes neste grupo de empresas. O estudo contribui ao ressaltar a importância dos controles informais e da aprendizagem no processo de inovação das empresas estabelecidas em ambientes compartilhados, como em parques tecnológicos e incubadoras.
Sistema de custo em hospitais mineiros que prestam serviços ao sus sob a perspectiva contingencial
Authors: Gonçalves da Cruz Niara , Pimentel Gonzaga Rosimeire , Rodrigues Junqueira de Matos Emanuel
Published: September 2021

Autores argumentam que a utilização de sistema de custo mais funcional poderia contribuir na tomada de decisão e, consequentemente, no desempenho econômico. Entretanto, existem estudos que afirmam que somente a funcionalidade do sistema de custo não seria capaz de impulsionar um desempenho favorável, pois isso depende do alinhamento entre o sistema de custo e variáveis contingenciais. Nessa linha, a presente pesquisa buscou identificar a relação de variáveis contingenciais com o sistema de custo e, a deste com o desempenho dos hospitais que atendem ao SUS, no estado de Minas Gerais. Utilizando-se questionário estruturado, bancos de dados eletrônico do CNES e ONA, análise fatorial e modelagem de equações estruturais, encontrou-se achados que corroboram com a teoria da contingência, evidenciando que o alinhamento entre variáveis contingenciais e o sistema de custo pode influenciar o desempenho. Esses resultados podem oferecer insights potencialmente úteis para gestores hospitalares projetarem características do sistema de custo que se encaixam com fatores contextuais, para melhoraria do desempenho.
ERAP1 Controls the Autoimmune Response against Melanocytes in Psoriasis by Generating the Melanocyte Autoantigen and Regulating Its Amount for HLA-C*06:02 Presentation
Authors: Arakawa Akiko , Reeves Emma , Vollmer Sigrid , Arakawa Yukiyasu , He Mengwen , Galinski Adrian , Stöhr Julia , Dornmair Klaus , James Edward , Prinz Jörg C
Published: September 2021

Autoimmune diseases develop when autoantigens activate previously quiescent self-reactive lymphocytes. Gene–gene interaction between certain HLA class I risk alleles and variants of the endoplasmic reticulum aminopeptidase ERAP1 controls the risk for common immune-mediated diseases, including psoriasis, ankylosing spondylitis, and Behçet disease. The functional mechanisms underlying this statistical association are unknown. In psoriasis, HLA-C*06:02 mediates an autoimmune response against melanocytes by autoantigen presentation. Using various genetically modified cell lines together with an autoreactive psoriatic TCR in a TCR activation assay, we demonstrate in this study that in psoriasis, ERAP1 generates the causative melanocyte autoantigen through trimming N-terminal elongated peptide precursors to the appropriate length for presentation by HLA-C*06:02. An ERAP1 risk haplotype for psoriasis produced the autoantigen much more efficiently and increased HLA-C expression and stimulation of the psoriatic TCR by melanocytes significantly more than a protective haplotype. Compared with the overall HLA class I molecules, cell surface expression of HLA-C decreased significantly more upon ERAP1 knockout. The combined upregulation of ERAP1 and HLA-C on melanocytes in psoriasis lesions emphasizes the pathogenic relevance of their interaction in patients. We conclude that in psoriasis pathogenesis, the increased generation of an ERAP1-dependent autoantigen by an ERAP1 risk haplotype enhances the likelihood that autoantigen presentation by HLA-C*06:02 will exceed the threshold for activation of potentially autoreactive T cells, thereby triggering CD8+ T cell–mediated autoimmune disease. These data identify ERAP1 function as a central checkpoint and promising therapeutic target in psoriasis and possibly other HLA class I–associated diseases with a similar genetic predisposition.
Nurse coaching improves healthy conditions: an integrative review of the literature
Authors: Vitale Elsa , Germini Francesco
Published: September 2021

Coaching has become a popular strategy in a complex environment. Nurses who incorporate coaching into their professional practice broaden their skills and opportunities in the entire spectrum of health, wellness, and healing. The aim was to illustrate and compare coaching models and to address their relevance in health promotion. A literature review from 2010 to 2019, retrieved from MEDLINE, reference tracking, and consultation of academic networks, has led to peer-reviewed articles on coaching models for health promotion. A total of 70 articles were found, 45 of which were excluded because too generic and not specific to the clinical nursing field. Finally, only 15 articles that well respected the inclusion criteria have been selected. The implementation of coaching can be seen in several health care fields, especially in nursing, to enhance health by empowering individuals.
Different clinical courses with the same findings: two cases of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria presenting with thrombocytopenia
Authors: Karakuş Volkan , Kaya Egemen , Dere Yelda , Şahin Fahri
Published: September 2021

Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) is a clonal stem cell disease that manifests with chronic intravascular hemolysis, thrombosis, and bone marrow failure. Various degrees of cytopenias accompany the disease. Although laboratory and clinical findings are similar, the disease may show different courses and require different treatments. Herein, we report two different courses of PNH with similar clinical and laboratory findings.
The side effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on key public health elements - How the global emergency has changed the acute management of myocardial infarction and stroke, the network of cancer care, and assistance to frail individuals
Authors: Cioni Gabriele , Canini Jessica
Published: September 2021

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is a primary health problem globally. In particular, it has caused troubles even to the advanced health systems of Western countrieswho attempted to limit the spread of the infection and manage patients with severe respiratory distress. However, this sudden contingency has had a much higher cost if we also consider the cost of suspending ordinary clinical care or delays in the emergency pathways of non-COVID-19 patients. Furthermore, the policies applied to contain the contagion have exacerbated the socio-economic disparities of the population and isolated fragile patients, making them subject to clinical relapses or aggravation of chronic diseases. For this reason, the various specialist centers have equipped themselves to guarantee an effective therapeutic path. In this brief review, we have outlined some consequent repercussions on the management of acute and chronic cardiovascular and neurovascular diseases and on oncological treatment. In particular, we have described the effects of the current health reorganization on some acute and time-dependent diseases, such as stroke and acute coronary syndromes, in which therapeutic delay is potentially disabling or fatal. Furthermore, we have focused on cancer treatments, whose essential cornerstones are early screening and follow-up. Finally, the suffering of the local health network has led to a lack of continuity of care in fragile patients, such as psychiatric, marginalized, or multiple comorbid patients.
Hitting the sweet spot of complexity: Reasons why the development of new custom-tailored models is still warranted and should be encouraged in aquatic sciences
Authors: López Moreira M. Gregorio A. , Toffolon Marco , Hölker Franz
Published: September 2021

Process-based aquatic ecosystem models are increasingly being developed and used in freshwater ecology and other aquatic sciences, as they are powerful tools to gain a mechanistic understanding of ecological processes and inform policy and decision making in environmental management. Over the last decades, not only have these models increased considerably in number, but also in their degree of complexity, which can improve predictive capacity. Nevertheless, it is also because of the higher degree of complexity of many models of current widespread use, that not all the hypotheses and assumptions upon which they have been built are always met by the relatively simple experiments that characterise fundamental ecological research. This is true for both laboratory experiments and those carried out outdoors, under semi-controlled conditions. Examples of the latter are the mesocosms experiments through which several novel questions are nowadays being addressed. In this article, we present our views on why the development of new custom-tailored aquatic ecosystem models of varying degrees of complexity is still very much warranted and should, therefore, be encouraged despite arguments in favour of always increasing complexity and against the creation of new models that are largely based on previously published ones (‘reinventing the wheel’). Deciding on the right complexity level should be linked to the biological organisation levels that are relevant to the specific research questions, and to how much knowledge on the subject is already available. Spatial and temporal scales are additional factors that a modeller should weigh in when deciding on the complexity of a model. To address these needs in the long term, the modelling community needs to grow. Training a new generation of model developers will not only benefit other scientists to better design future experiments but will also facilitate interdisciplinary research and teamwork, approaches such as ensemble modelling, as well as the communication of science to managers and many other stakeholders.
Exclusive Breastfeeding Practice in Indonesia: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Gayatri Maria
Published: September 2021

Background: It is a well-known fact that exclusive breastfeeding benefits both mothers and their babies. The aim of this study is to assess the associated factors influencing exclusive breastfeeding of babies until 6 months of age. Methods: The study used data from the 2017 Indonesia Demographic and Health Survey. Overall, 1,542 women who had infants aged below 6 months were included in the study. Sociodemographic and maternal health service utilization factors were examined for association with exclusive breastfeeding, using logistic regression for a complex sample design. Results: The proportion of exclusive breastfeeding was 52.3% (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.498–0.548). Parity, antenatal care visits, early initiation of breastfeeding, low-income households, and rural areas were significant factors associated with the increased likelihood of exclusive breastfeeding. However, working status (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.70; 95% CI, 0.57–0.86) and caesarean delivery or C-section (aOR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.57–0.99) were factors for a lower likelihood of exclusive breastfeeding. Conclusion: Working women are at risk of discontinuation of exclusive breastfeeding. Mothers who had a normal vaginal delivery and practiced early initiation of breastfeeding had a higher rate of exclusive breastfeeding. These findings have important implications for developing comprehensive guidance and resources for women regarding the importance of exclusive breastfeeding during the early postpartum period.
Evaluation of the effect of preoperative corneal curvature on the successful formation of the big bubble formation in deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty for keratoconus
Authors: Hassan Mohamed S. , Elmassry Ahmed A. , Ghaith Alaa A. , Goweida Mohamed B.
Published: September 2021

Background

New approaches have been created to raise the chances of achieving big bubble (BB) in deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK); however, the BB formation is still uncertain in all cases. Other factors likely contribute to the success of bubble formation.

Aim

To evaluate the effect of preoperative curvature of the cornea on the success of BB formation in DALK for keratoconus.

Design

A prospective, comparative, nonrandomized study.

Patients and methods

The study was performed on 50 keratoconus patients. We compared the data of 25 patients who had successful type-1 bubble formation versus another 25 patients in whom the bubble formation failed. Both groups were compared regarding the keratometric readings recorded from the preoperative pentacam.

Results

The analysis showed statistically significant lower K1, K2, and Km values in the group where BB has been successfully achieved. We also found that lower K1 value was the only significant studied factor after the multivariate analysis.

Conclusion

Keratoconus patients with preoperative flatter corneas have slightly higher chances for successful BB formation during DALK surgery.
Profiles of diabetes care, control and complications in Benghazi, Libya 2020: A cross sectional study
Authors: Alfalah Omar , Eljazwi Imhemed , Buzaid Najat
Published: September 2021

Background: Diabetes mellitus is one of the growing health problems worldwide. Comprehensive medical evaluation, screening for complications, and proper diabetes care are crucial to improve outcome. Objectives: We aimed to study the profile of diabetes in Benghazi city and assess the changes since the last study of 2002. Patients and Methods: This study is a descriptive cross-sectional study of 504 persons with diabetes who were following at Benghazi diabetes center during June and July in 2020. Results: The age was, mean ± standard deviation; 57.8 ±12.3 years. with equal sex split. A quarter (24.8%) of participants graduated from a university/college. About half of the patients were obese (48.4%) Hypertension and dyslipidemia were found in 35.1% and 42.1%. respectively. The mean glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) was 8.3% ±1.7%. Self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) was practiced by 20.2% of all patients, Less than two thirds (63.5%) of all patients had diabetes eye screening within the previous year. However, none of the participants had ever had a comprehensive feet examination. Ramadan fasting was observed by most of participants (95.4%). Conclusions: There is an improvement regarding annual eye examination, taking the medications regularly, SMBG, assessment of lipid profile, and regular follow-up with HbA1c in comparison with the practice in 2002. On the other hand, there is a decline in having comprehensive feet examination, practicing regular exercise, and diet control. The uncovered gaps in diabetes care need urgent attention.
Endodontic management of a mandibular second molar with C-shaped canals
Authors: Mandal Tapan Kumar , Dubey Deepyanti , Kurup Deepak , Pandey Nitish Kumar , Verma Kiran , Mahreen Shazia
Published: September 2021

The aim of this case report is to explain the etiology and management of C-shaped canals. An important anatomic variant in root canal morphology, the C configuration, presents as a thin fin connecting the canals with a predilection for mandibular second molars. Early recognition of the C-shape becomes imperative for its successful management. Newer diagnostic tools have facilitated a more precise diagnosis of this condition. Clinical and radiographic diagnoses can aid in the identification and negotiation of the fan-shaped areas. The inaccessible areas and unique canal patterns make provision of optimum treatment quality a highly challenging proposition. Successful endodontic therapy of this canal configuration can be achieved with rotary and hand instrumentation assisted with ultrasonics.
Fungal choroidal abscess in a case of aggressive retinopathy of prematurity
Authors: Kaur Taranpreet , Vig Vipan Kumar , Kaur Inderjit , Arora Sunita
Published: September 2021

Fungal choroidal abscesses are rarely reported entities on routine retinopathy of prematurity screenings done on neonates. With the increasing use of broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotics on preterm neonates during their stay in neonatal intensive care unit who are already immunodeficient, we hereby bring this case into notice so as to keep fungal etiologies as a close differential in comparison to bacterial choroidal abscesses, the latter being more common in the older age group. The late diagnosis of fungal choroidal abscess and the lack of systemic treatment for the same could possibly lead to acquired hydrocephalus and other systemic complications.
Recent Advances in Forensic Odontology
Authors: Menon P.Aishwarya , Kumar N. Anoop
Published: September 2021

Forensic odontology is a branch of forensic sciences that uses the skill of a dentist in personal identification during mass calamities, sexual assault, and child abuse to name a few. Forensic odontology is an evolving science and has a greater scope of development. Recent advances in the field of genetics and molecular biology have contributed to the rapid growth of forensic odontology. In case of a crime scene, forensic odontologists play a major role in investigating and interpreting dental evidence. Forensic odontologists utilize the knowledge of dentistry in bite mark analysis, fixation of identity in mass disasters, and age estimation. Thus, the duty and responsibility of forensic odontologists has increased in recent years. Therefore, practicing dentists and dental students should be made aware of the available newer technologies and its use in forensic dentistry. This article gives an overview of recent advances used in identification in forensic dentistry.
Identification of adulterants of Terminalia arjuna bark from market samples through a pharmacognostical study
Authors: Mallikarjuna Rao Polepalli , Gupta K. L. Virupaksha
Published: September 2021

Background:

Pharmacognostical parameters, namely macroscopic and microscopic techniques, are very important in the identification of drugs. The macroscopic and microscopic feature of medicinal plants is believable, accurate and involves less cost. So, the study of the morphology and the organoleptic nature of drugs is undertaken using highly sophisticated modern techniques. In Ayurveda, Arjuna bark is an important drug for the treatment of heart disorders and other diseases. There is a great demand for Arjuna bark in the market, and it is very prone to getting adulterated. To find out the correct identity of Arjuna bark from adulterants with the help of pharmacognostical techniques, the present study was undertaken.

Materials and Methods:

The Arjuna bark was obtained from the source tree and from four raw drug markets of the capital cities of south India. These five Arjuna bark samples were considered for analyzing their organoleptic characteristics; microscopic examination, polarization, fluorescence microscopic examination, powder microscopy, and thin layer chromatography (TLC) of the drug were used for authentication.

Results:

The Arjuna bark collected from the source tree and the market samples showed the same presentations, thus the market samples were acceptable. It is also found that the bark of the tree Terminalia paniculata is used as an adulterant in a negligible quantity.

Conclusion:

The present study reveals that, the chances of adulteration for T. arjuna are very less.
A review on the pharmacological properties of Evolvulus alsinoides (Linn)
Authors: Kathirvel Bharathi , Kalibulla Syed I. , Shanmugam Velayuthaprabhu , Arumugam Vijaya A.
Published: September 2021

Background:

Evolvulus alsinoides (Linn) is a perennial herb found throughout India that belongs to the family of Convolvulaceae. Shankhpushpi was traditionally used in Unani and Ayurveda. Shankhpushpi was used in the Medhya Rasyana (nervine tonic) as a brain and memory tonic. Traditionally, Shankhpushpi has been used as a memory enhancer, a sedative; for antianxiety; as an antiepileptic, anthelmintic, and anticonvulsant; and against leukoderma.

Aim:

The objective of this review is to summarize the phytochemical constituents, traditional uses, ethnomedicinal uses, and pharmacological properties of E. alsinoides L.

Materials and Methods:

The articles regarding E. alsinoides L. were collected using keywords such as E. alsinoides L.; pharmacological activities and traditional usage were obtained from accredited scientific databases such as Pubmed, Nature, Wiley, Springer, and ScienceDirect.

Results and Conclusion:

Based on current observations, a literature review suggested that the E. alsinoides L. may possess pharmacological properties such as wound healing, hepatoprotective activity, cardioprotective property, antidiabetic activity, memory and learning, and neuroprotective activity.
Effectiveness of WHO dengue management protocol
Authors: Rajan Nishanth , Jose Priya , Kommu Peter Prasanth Kumar , Mani Manikandan , Krishnan Lalitha
Published: September 2021

Background:

Dengue fever (DF) has become a worldwide health problem. There are only a few studies assessing management based on the classification by the World Health Organization (WHO). Hence, we aimed at assessing the outcome of children with DF before and after the implementation of the WHO protocol.

Subjects and Methods:

A retrospective hospital-based comparative study was done in a tertiary care center, Puducherry, to study the outcome of children diagnosed with DF before and after the implementation of WHO management 2012 protocol in the year 2014. All children (0–14 years) who were diagnosed with DF (NS1Ag or IgM ELISA positivity) during 2012–2016 were included. Medical records with incomplete data were excluded. They were divided into two groups: Group I – Children admitted for treatment of DF between January 2012 and December 2013 (24 months) and managed by close clinical monitoring and Group II – Children admitted for treatment of DF between January 2014 and December 2016 (36 months) and managed as per WHO protocol.

Results:

There was no statistically significant difference in the signs of shock and mortality between the groups. There was statistically significant difference of children with fluid overload during the recovery phase in Group II when compared with Group I.

Conclusions:

Close clinical monitoring during the critical phase may reduce the signs of fluid overload during the recovery phase.
A characterization of metric subspaces of full Assouad dimension
Authors: Ishiki Yoshito
Published: September 2021

We introduce the notion of tiling spaces for metric spaces. The class of tiling spaces contains the Euclidean spaces, the middle-third Cantor set, and various self-similar spaces appearing in fractal geometry. For doubling tiling spaces, we characterize metric subspaces whose Assouad dimension coincides with that of the whole space.
Обратная связь и импульсное поведение
дифференциально-алгебраических уравнений
Authors: Shcheglova Alla Arkad'evna
Published: September 2021

Рассматривается управляемая линейная система
дифференциально-алгебраических уравнений
с бесконечно дифференцируемыми коэффициентами.
Допускается произвольно высокий индекс неразрешенности и
переменный ранг матричных коэффициентов.
Получены достаточные условия существования и предложены способы
нахождения управления в виде обратной связи такого,
что решение замкнутой системы существует
в классе обобщенных функций типа Соболева-Шварца и не содержит
сингулярных слагаемых. Это управление строится в виде
линейной комбинации компонент состояния системы и его производных.
Библиография: 14 названий.
Аппроксимативные свойства средних Валле Пуссена
частичных сумм специального ряда по полиномам Лагерра
Authors: Gadzhimirzaev Ramis Makhmudovich , Shakh-Emirov Tadgidin Nurmagomedovich
Published: September 2021

В работе рассматривается задача о приближении непрерывных на полуоси
$[0,\infty)$ функций, для которых в точке $x=0$ существуют
производные $f^{(\nu)}(0)$, $\nu=0,…,r-1$,
средними Валле Пуссена частичных сумм специального ряда
по полиномам Лагерра.
Библиография: 6 названий.
Множества перемешивания для жестких преобразований
Authors: Ryzhikov Valerii Valentinovich
Published: September 2021

В заметке показано, что для всякого бесконечного множества $M\subset\mathbf N$
нулевой плотности найдется жесткое сохраняющее меру преобразование
вероятностного пространства, перемешивающее вдоль $M$. В качестве
подходящих примеров предлагаются гауссовские действия и пуассоновские
надстройки над бесконечными конструкциями ранга один. Обсуждаются также
аналоги полученного результата для групповых действий и метод,
не использующий гауссовские и пуассоновские надстройки.
Библиография: 12 названий.
О соотношениях ортогональноcти первообразных многочленов Лежандра, и их приложениях к некоторым спектральным задачам для дифференциальных операторов
Authors: Garmanova Tat'yana Alekseevna , Sheipak Igor Anatolievich
Published: September 2021

В настоящей работе изучаются свойства первообразных многочленов Лежандра
на отрезке $[0;1]$. Показано, что первообразные полиномов Лежандра
образуют "почти" ортогональную систему. А именно,
при фиксированном порядке первообразной лишь конечное число
этих полиномов может не быть ортогональным. На основе этих свойств
установлена связь спектральной задачи
для дифференциальных операторов в $L_2[0;1]$
со спектральными свойствами обобщенных матриц Якоби.
Библиография: 12 названий.
Степень отображения между $(n-1)$-связными $(2n+1)$-мерными многообразиями или комплексами Пуанкаре и приложения
Authors: Grbic Jelena , Vučic Aleksandar
Published: September 2021

В работе методы теории гомотопий применяются для изучения отображений между
$(n-1)$-связными $(2n+1)$-мерными комплексами Пуанкаре. Получены необходимые и достаточные условия существования отображений заданной степени для таких комплексов Пуанкаре. Эти условия позволяют явно описать все отображения заданной степени с точностью до гомотопии.
В качестве приложения степени отображения рассматривается отображение степени $\pm 1$ между $(n-1)$-связными $(2n+1)$-мерными комплексами Пуанкаре и приводится достаточное условие для того, чтобы данное отображение было гомотопической эквивалентностью. Это дает ответ на гомотопический аналог вопроса Новикова о том, когда отображение степени $1$ между многообразиями является гомеоморфизмом. Для малых $n$ дана классификация $(n-1)$-связных $(2n+1)$-мерных комплексов Пуанкаре без кручения с точностью до гомотопии.
Библиография: 29 названий.
Toll-Like Receptors and Mannose Binding Lectin Gene Polymorphisms Associated with Cryptosporidial Diarrhea in Children in Southern India
Authors: Liakath Farzana Begum , Varatharajan Savitha , Premkumar Prasanna Samuel , Syed Chanduni , Ward Honorine , Kang Gagandeep , Ajjampur Sitara S. R.
Published: September 2021

In low-resource settings, Cryptosporidium spp. is a common cause of diarrheal disease in children under the age of 3 years. In addition to diarrhea, these children also experience subclinical episodes that have been shown to affect growth and cognitive function. In this study, we screened polymorphisms in the promoter and exon1 regions of the mannose binding lectin 2 (MBL2) gene, as well as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) described in toll-like receptors (TLR) TLR1, TLR2, TLR4, and TLR9 and TIR domain-containing adaptor protein (TIRAP) genes among children with cryptosporidial diarrhea (cases) and children who only experienced asymptomatic (subclinical) cryptosporidiosis (controls). Among the polymorphisms screened, the variant allele B at codon 54 (rs1800450) of the MBL2 gene was associated with susceptibility to cryptosporidial diarrhea (odds ratio [OR] = 2.2, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.1–4.5). When plasma MBL levels were compared, 72% of cases were found to be deficient compared with 32% among controls (OR = 5.09). Among TLR polymorphisms screened, multivariate analysis showed that heterozygous genotypes of TLR4 896A/G (rs4986790, OR = 0.33, 95% CI: 0.11–0.98) and TIRAP 539 C/T (rs8177374, OR = 0.19, 95% CI: 0.06–0.64) SNPs were associated with protection from cryptosporidial diarrhea. Although not statistically significant, these findings suggest that polymorphisms of MBL2 and TLR genes influence susceptibility to symptomatic cryptosporidial diarrhea even in settings with high exposure levels. Further studies to validate these findings in a larger cohort and to understand the role of these polymorphisms in mediating innate and adaptive immune responses to cryptosporidial infection are necessary.
Contribution of Viral Respiratory Infections to Dengue-Like Illness Presentation at a Community Clinic in Southern Malaysia
Authors: Dhanoa Amreeta , Ngim Chin Fang , Yunos Nor’azim Mohd , Husain Syed M. Tupur , Pong Lian Yih , Ismail Wan Fadhilah Wan , Hontz Robert D. , Hassan Sharifah Syed
Published: September 2021

This study explored the contribution of viral respiratory infections (VRIs) in dengue-like illness (DLI) patients and their distinguishing clinicolaboratory parameters. Two hundred DLI patients were prospectively recruited (July 1– October 1, 2019) from a community clinic in Southern Malaysia. Patients ≥ 18 years with acute fever and fulfilling the WHO criteria of probable dengue were recruited. They underwent blood testing: blood counts, rapid dengue tests (nonstructural antigen-1/IgM) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for dengue, Zika, chikungunya, and Leptospira. Nasopharyngeal swabs (NPSs) were collected for FilmArray®RP2plus testing. From the 200 NPSs, 58 respiratory viruses (RVs) were detected in 54 patients. Of the 96 dengue-confirmed cases, 86 had dengue mono-infection, and 10 were coinfected with RVs. Of the 104 nondengue, 44 were RV positive and 4 Leptospira positive. Zika and chikungunya virus were not detected. Overall, the etiological diagnosis was confirmed for 72% of patients. Clinicolaboratory parameters were compared between dengue mono-infection and VRI mono-infection. Patients with coinfections were excluded. Multiple logistic regression showed that recent household/neighborhood history of dengue (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 5.9, 95% CI = 1.7–20.7), leukopenia (aOR: 12.5, 95% CI = 2.6–61.4) and thrombocytopenia (aOR: 5.5, 95% CI = 1.3–23.0) predicted dengue. Inversely, rhinorrhoea (aOR: 0.1, 95% CI = 0.01–0.3) and cough (aOR: 0.3, 95% CI = 0.1–0.9) favored VRI. Thus, VRIs comprise many infections diagnosed initially as DLIs. Early clinicolaboratory parameters can guide physicians screen patients for further testing.
Ecological risk by potentially toxic elements in surface sediments of the Lake Maracaibo (Venezuela)
Authors: Marín Julio , Colina Marinela , Ledo Hilda , Gardiner P.H.E.
Published: September 2021

The evaluation of potential ecological risk of aquatic sediments associated with the presence of potentially toxic elements (PTE) determines its degree of danger on native biota. In this work, the potential ecological risk of V, Ti, Cr, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Se, Cd, Sn, Hg and Pb in superficial sediments is explained in three different areas of Lake Maracaibo: El Tablazo Bay, Strait of Maracaibo and the lake itself, through a multi-guideline approach (elemental enrichment (enrichment factor, contamination degree, pollutant load index and geo-accumulation index), sediment quality guidelines and risk assessment code). The PTE levels ranged from < 0.025 to 176.722 mg·kg−1 DW, with an overall proportion of V > Ti > Pb > Zn > Cr > Cu > Ni > As > Cd > Se > Hg > Sn. The PTE concurrent effect on biota was El Tablazo Bay > lake > Strait of Maracaibo. The superficial sediments of Lake Maracaibo constitute a medium with a high potential ecological risk on estuarine biota. This is mainly due to the levels of As in El Tablazo Bay, Cd in the Strait of Maracaibo and Pb in the lake area. This represents a latent toxicity hazard for native biological communities and other associated organisms.
Nutraceutical management of male infertility-towards new generation therapeutics
Authors: Ekerin Olabode , K. Calistus Okechukwu
Published: September 2021

Infertility is one of the most significant public health-related concerns globally. Both male and female factors can cause it. Male factors include poor sperm quality, idiopathic oligospermia, asthenozoospermia, and isolated asthenozoospermia. Many substances, collectively known as nutraceuticals, have been studied for their capacity to enhance hormonal state and sperm parameters through different mechanisms. Nutraceuticals are components in dietary supplements prescribed to prevent or treat a wide range of diseases. This article aims to highlight certain nutrients that can help improve male fertility based on recent advancements in the management of male infertility.
Synthesis of Research on Mathematical Thinking Development under the Lesson Study and Open Approach Context
Authors: Nasinsroy Jatuporn , Inprasitha Maitree , Changsri Narumon
Published: September 2021

The qualitative educational research synthesis of this paper is the incorporation of existing knowledge and the research results using Lesson Study and Open Approach innovations that relevant to the concern of students’ mathematical thinking development. The purpose of synthesis is to upsurge the generalization and pertinency of new knowledge development based on the results in incorporation the two innovations. Researchers employed document analysis to analyze the evidence of 266 postgraduate studies from the academic year 2003 to 2020. The research procedure consists of three stages. The results from the first stage showed that there are six research classifications identified, namely teacher and teaching, students and learning, assessment, classroom innovations, curriculum development, and educational policy. The research findings of the second phase indicated that there was a total of 210 studies (78.95%) were employing Open Approach incorporated in the Lesson Study process. Moreover, 53.33 percent are found in students and learning research classification. This is followed by 19.05 percent in teacher and teaching, 14.76 percent in classroom innovations, and 4.76 percent in assessment classifications. However, there was a limited of past postgraduate researchers interested to study curriculum development (4.29%) and educational policy (3.81%) research classifications. The findings of the final stage revealed that all the 210 postgraduate studies concerning the six research classifications are found to have different impacts on students’ mathematical thinking development. These effects occurred across a series of settings, synthesis approaches, expectations, and managing the Thailand Lesson Study Model.