bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Software Aging in Container Orchestration Systems: An Assessment of Effects on Kubernetes
Authors: Tavares Jackson , Matos Rubens , Araujo Jean
Published: August 2022

Software Aging and Rejuvenation is a research topic that is being observed increasingly in the most diverse computing scenarios since the demand for reliability and availability of services has increased significantly. With the increasing use of containerized systems, there is also a need for the support of an orchestrator to ease management and reduce operational costs. In this paper, the behavior of Kubernetes software is evaluated, using both Minikube and K3S tools, while they manage pods in an accelerated lifetime experiment. Operations for creating and terminating pods are executed continuously, thus enabling us to observe the utilization of computing resources (e.g., CPU, memory, and I/O), the performance of the Minikube and K3S environments, and the response time of an application hosted in those environments. Software aging effects were observed in some conditions and for specific metrics, such as virtual memory usage, indicating a memory leak that is not fully cleared when the cluster is stopped. The issues found in this work may lead to system performance degradation and eventually compromise reliability and availability when the system crashes due to memory space exhaustion as well as full utilization of swap space on the hard disk.
Nonlinear Free Vibration of Functionally Graded Sandwich Beams Based on a Sinusoidal Shear Deformation Theory
Authors: Le Cong Ich , Nguyen Dinh Kien
Published: August 2022

Nonlinear free vibration of functionally graded sandwich beams is studied in this paper on the basis of a sinusoidal shear deformation theory and von Kármán geometric nonlinearity. The sandwich beams are composed of a pure ceramic core and two metal/ceramic functionally graded face sheets. The material properties of the face sheets are considered to be graded in the thickness by a power-law distribution, and they are evaluated by the Mori-Tanaka scheme. Nonlinear differential equations of motion are derived from Hamilton’s principle, and they are discretized by a two-node beam element. The direct iterative method is adopted to evaluate nonlinear frequencies of the sandwich beams with various boundary conditions. The numerical result reveals that the increase of the nonlinear frequency ratio by increasing the vibration amplitude is more significant for the beam associated with a higher power-law index. A parametric study is carried out to highlight the effect of the material and geometrical parameters on nonlinear vibration of the sandwich beams.
Comparison of Fluoride Uptake into Tooth Enamel Using Four Different Fluoride Varnishes
Authors: Moslemi Masumeh , Moghaddam Samira Asghari , Iranparvar Parastoo , Kooshki Fahimeh , Eskandarion Solmaz
Published: August 2022

Background
The efficacy of fluoride varnish in preventing dental caries has been well documented. The objective of this study was to compare the impact of four different fluoride varnish brands containing 5% sodium fluoride on the sound enamel of permanent teeth.
Methods
In this experimental study, 40 sound human premolar teeth were randomly assigned to four groups (Fluorilaq®, FluoroDose®, Preventa®, Kimia®; N = 10). Each tooth was sectioned into buccal and lingual halves, corresponding to the control and the experimental subgroups, respectively. In the experimental halves, a semi-circular shaped area of the enamel was treated with the designated fluoride varnish. All specimens underwent Acid Etch Enamel Biopsy. Fluoride and Calcium concentrations were measured using a Potentiometer and Inductively Coupled Plasma optical emission spectrometer, respectively. The collected data were analyzed using paired t-test and one-way ANOVA at P < 0.05.
Results
There was a significant difference between the enamel fluoride content of experimental and control halves in all groups (P < 0.05). Preventa® Fluoride varnish caused the highest Fluoride uptake, followed by FluoroDose®, Fluorilaq®, and Kimia®. All pair comparisons were statistically significant (P < 0.05), except for Preventa® vs. FluoroDose® (P = 0.36).
Conclusions
Since all examined Fluoride varnishes increased the Fluoride content of the tooth enamel, they potentially qualify for caries prevention. Furthermore, Preventa® could be considered a good domestic alternative for other brands investigated in this research, in terms of enamel fluoride uptake.
Volume-Outcome Relationship in Intra-abdominal Robotic-Assisted surgery. A Systematic Review
Authors: Day Elizabeth K , Galbraith Norman J , Ward Hester JT , Roxburgh Campbell S
Published: August 2022

As robotic assisted surgery (RAS) expands to smaller centres, platforms are shared between specialities. Healthcare providers must consider case volume and mix required to maintain quality and cost-effectiveness. This can be informed, in-part, by the volume-outcome relationship. We perform a systematic review to describe the volume-outcome relationship in intra-abdominal robotic assisted surgery to report on suggested minimum volumes standards. A literature search of Medline, NICE Evidence Search, Health Technology Assessment Database and Cochrane Library using the terms: “robot*”, “surgery”, “volume” and “outcome” was performed. The included procedures were gynaecological: hysterectomy, urological: partial and radical nephrectomy, cystectomy, prostatectomy, and general surgical: colectomy, oesophagectomy. Hospital and surgeon volume measures and all reported outcomes were analysed. 41 studies, including 983149 procedures, met the inclusion criteria. Study quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale and the retrieved data was synthesised in a narrative review. Significant volume-outcome relationships were described in relation to key outcome measures, including operative time, complications, positive margins, lymph node yield and cost. Annual surgeon and hospital volume thresholds were described. We concluded that in centres with an annual volume of fewer than 10 cases of a given procedure, having multiple surgeons performing these procedures led to worse outcomes and, therefore, opportunities should be sought to perform other complimentary robotic procedures or undertake joint cases.
Impact of type 1 diabetes and its duration on wall-to-lumen ratio and blood flow in retinal arterioles
Authors: Stefanski Adrian , Wolf Jacek , Harazny Joanna , Miszkowska-Nagórna Eliza , Wolnik Bogumił , Narkiewicz Krzysztof , Schmieder Roland
Published: August 2022

Background
Subclinical damage to both the small and large vessels may contribute to the development and progression of cardiovascular disease. Scanning laser Doppler flowmetry (SLDF), an established method used to measure retinal microcirculation, has been successfully applied in hypertensive and post-stroke patients.
Methods
Retinal microcirculation was assessed in 158 patients with type 1 diabetes and 38 age-matched healthy controls. The diabetics were divided into 3 groups: group A with diabetes duration < 12 months, group B with diabetes with 1–10 years, and group C > 10 years of diabetes. Retinal capillary structure and perfusion were evaluated using a Heidelberg retina flowmeter and automatically analyzed with full-field perfusion imaging.
Results
Age and BMI were comparable in all the diabetic patients and the controls (mean age 24.8 ± 4.7 years, mean BMI 22.9 ± 4.1). In the univariate analyses, RCF was significantly higher in group A (297 ± 121 arbitrary units [AU]) vs group B (236 ± 52 AU; p = 0.007) and group C (236 ± 70 AU; p = 0.008) and comparable to that of the controls (p = 0.46). Additionally, the WLR was highest in group C compared to the other diabetic subgroups and controls (p = 0.47).
Conclusions
New-onset diabetes is associated with an increase in RCF, which then gradually decreased with the duration of the disease. Structural changes of the retinal arterioles estimated via WLR are evident later in the course of diabetes, especially when the disease duration exceeded 10 years.
Effects of Iron Rates on Growth and Development of Young Huanglongbing-affected Citrus Trees in Florida
Authors: Kwakye Samuel , Kadyampakeni Davie M. , Morgan Kelly , Vashisth Tripti , Wright Alan
Published: August 2022

Essential nutrients for citrus [‘Bingo’ (Citrus reticulata, Blanco)] production are important for different functions, including photosynthesis, resistance to disease, and productivity. During the past 15 to 20 years, citrus production in Florida has significantly declined as a result of the devastating citrus greening disease also called huanglongbing (HLB). Therefore, a greenhouse study was conducted for 2 years, starting in 2018, at the University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Citrus Research and Education Center in Florida to evaluate the effect of varying rates of iron on the growth and development of 2-year-old HLB-affected ‘Bingo’ (Citrus reticulata, Blanco) trees on Kuharske citrange rootstock. Four treatments were used in a randomized complete block (HLB status) design with seven single tree replicates for each treatment. The treatments applied were 0.0 (control), 5.6 (standard fertilization, lx), 11.2 (2x), and 22.4 (4x) kg⋅ha−1 iron on HLB-affected and healthy (non-HLB) citrus trees. Data including trunk diameter, tree height, and leaf samples were collected, processed, and analyzed at 3-month intervals for 2 years. At the end of the second year, trees were destructively sampled and processed as above-ground and below-ground biomass. Tree heights were different among iron rates of HLB-affected trees (P < 0.001); however, they were similar for non-HLB trees for both years. Higher average trunk diameters (P < 0.001) were observed for HLB-affected trees that received the 2x rate compared with the 1x rate and the control. In 2019, non-HLB trees showed 13% to 40% higher iron concentrations in leaves than HLB-affected trees. However, leaf iron concentrations were comparable for HLB-affected and non-HLB trees in 2020. Above-ground biomass for HLB-affected trees had between 33% and 44% more biomass (P < 0.01) than below-ground biomass for the corresponding iron fertilization. Iron accumulation correlated positively with all studied nutrients in the above-ground parts for both HLB-affected and non-HLB trees. A 95% confidence interval at which total biomass was nearly maximum corresponded to an iron rate of 9.6 to 11.8 kg⋅ha−1, which was close to the 2x rate. Therefore, soil iron application using the aforementioned rates may be appropriate for better growth and development of young HLB-affected trees.
Diagnostic Approach for the Primary Cardiac Angiosarcoma – A Case Report
Authors: Shalji Shibaani , Bhatnagar Gopal , Hiremath Niranjan , Nahal Ayoub , Joshi Priti , Rivard Andrew
Published: August 2022

Background:

We report a 25-year-old male who presented to an outside institution with progressive dyspnoea. He had increased jugular venous pressure and muffled heart sounds, suggesting a pericardial tamponade. A diagnosis of a cardiac angiosarcoma was put forward.
Primary cardiac tumours are rare, and patients can present with constitutional symptoms, posing a diagnostic challenge. The objective of this report is to suggest a diagnostic standard for early recognition of these fatal tumours.

Case presentation:

A chest radiograph demonstrated an enlarged cardiac contour and signs of pericardial tamponade. Pericardiocentesis was performed, complicated by a pneumopericardium and the pericardial fluid was haemorrhagic and exudative. Echocardiography confirmed a right atrial mass featured by heterogeneous enhancement in subsequent chest computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging concerning a sarcoma. No metastatic lesions were found. The tumour was excised completely, and the following echocardiogram indicated normokinetic biventricular function. Histological examination of the tumour cells confirmed the presence of a cardiac angiosarcoma. Patient was scheduled for combined chemotherapy following discharge.

Conclusion:

Primary cardiac angiosarcomas are difficult to diagnose due to the rarity of the tumour as well as the non-specific symptoms. An early diagnosis may help improve prognosis which emphasizes the importance of establishing a standard diagnostic protocol for such tumours.
Sulfonamide Moiety as “Molecular Chimera” in the Design of New
Drugs
Authors: Culletta Giulia , Tutone Marco , Zappalà Maria , Almerico Anna Maria
Published: August 2022

Background:

The -SO2NH- group is of great significance in modern pharmaceutical
use since, in sulfa-drugs, it is possible to introduce easily chemical modifications,
and even small changes may lead to an improved version of an already existing drug.

Objective:

This paper aims to describe updated information in the sulfonamide field with
a particular focus on new mechanisms of action, especially if discovered by employing
computational approaches.

Methods:

Research articles that focused on the use of the sulfonamide moiety for the design,
synthesis, and in vitro/in vivo tests of various diseases were collected from various
search engines like PubMed, Science Direct, Google Scholar, and Scopus, using keywords
like sulfonamide moiety, aryl/heteroary lsulfonamides, alkyl sulfonamides, in silico drug
design, etc.

Conclusion:

The more relevant reports highlighting the prominent role of sulfonamide
moiety in drug discovery have been critically analyzed. Sulfonamides can be considered
as “molecular chimera”, which are found to form hydrogen bonds as well as interact with
unipolar environments within proteins. Therefore, based on the analysis reported herein, it
is strongly foresight that new entities can be developed easily to improve the available
machinery helpful in the fight against new and emerging diseases.
Topoisomerase Enzyme Inhibitors as Potential Drugs Against Cancer: What Makes
Them Selective or Dual? – A Review
Authors: Gomes Joilly Nilce Santana , Santos Mirelly Barbosa , de Medeiros e Silva Yvnni Maria Sales , Albino Sonaly Lima , de Moura Ricardo Olímpio
Published: August 2022

Topoisomerase inhibitors are extensively used in cancer chemotherapy. In the process of identifying novel anticancer compounds, biological evaluations are crucial and include, among others, the use of in silico and in vitro approaches. This work aimed to present recent research involving the obtainment and in silico and in vitro evaluation of topoisomerase I, II, and double inhibitors, of synthetic and natural origin, as potential compounds against tumor cells, in addition to proposing the construction of a desirable enzyme catalytic site. Therefore, it was observed that most Topoisomerase I inhibitors presented medium to large structures, with a rigid portion and a flexible region. In contrast, Topoisomerase IIα inhibitors showed medium and large structural characteristics, in addition to the planarity of the aromatic rings, which is mitigated due to flexible rings, but may also present elements that restrict conformation. The majority of compounds that exhibit dual inhibitory activity had relatively long chains, in addition to a flat and rigid portion suggestive of affinity for Topo I, and a flexible region characteristic of selective drugs for Topo II. Besides, it is noticed that most compounds that exhibit dual inhibitory showed similarities in the types of interactions and amino acids when compared to the selective compounds of Topo I and II. For instance, selective Topoisomerase I inhibitors interact with Arginine364 residues and selective Topoisomerase II inhibitors interact with Arginine487 residues, as both residues are targets for dual compounds.
Fasudil Protects Against Adriamycin-induced Acute Heart Injury by Inhibiting
Oxidative Stress, Apoptosis, and Cellular Senescence
Authors: Yan Yi , Xiang Chengyu , Zhang Dingguo
Published: August 2022

Background:

The clinical utility of Adriamycin (ADR) is limited due to its toxicity, particularly cardiotoxicity.
Therefore, effective cardioprotective adjuvants to minimize ADR-induced acute cardiotoxicity are
urgently needed. Our previous studies have demonstrated the protective roles of fasudil on tissue injury. Here,
we further explore whether inhibition of Rho-kinase could alleviate the acute heart injury induced by ADR.

Methods:

C57BL6 mice were randomly divided into the following four groups: ① ADR group; ② low-dose
fasudil (ADR+L); ③ high-dose fasudil (ADR+H); and ④ control group (CON). Animals were injected i.p 20
mg/kg ADR once in group ①~③. Animals were injected i.p fasudil (2 or 10 mg/kg/day) daily for consecutive 6
days in groups ② and ③, respectively. Blood samples and heart tissues were collected for assays. H9C2 cells
were treated with fasudil for 30 mins and then incubated with ADR for 24 hours. Cells were collected for immunohistochemistry
and western blot study, respectively.

Results:

In the mouse model, administration of fasudil significantly ameliorated ADR-induced cardiac damage,
suppressed cell apoptosis and senescence, and ameliorated redox imbalance and DNA damage. In vitro, fasudil
treatment ameliorated ADR-induced immunofluorescence reaction of 8-OHdG, decreased the expression of
TUNEL cells and proteins of Bax, Caspase-3 and p53, and increased the expression of proteins of Bcl-2 and
SIRT 1.

Conclusion:

Fasudil has a protective effect on ADR induced acute cardiotoxicity, which is partially attributed
to its antioxidant, anti-senescence, and anti-apoptotic effects.
LncRNA NBR2 Regulates Cancer Cell Stemness and Predicts Survival in
Non-small Cell Cancer Patients by Downregulating TGF-β1
Authors: Huang Jun , Yu Qiuhua , Zhang Junjie , lu Wenbin , Liu Qian , Chu Ying , Zhou Yanjuan , Tu Renshu , Zhou Huxiang , Wang Qiang
Published: August 2022

Background:

LncRNA NBR2 is a key regulator in cancer metabolism. However, its role in
lung cancer is unknown.

Objective:

This study aimed to explore the function of NBR2 in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC),
which is the most common type of lung cancer.

Methods:

Paired NSCLC and non-cancer tissues were collected from 68 patients with NSCLC. The
expression of NBR2 and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) in these samples was analyzed by
RT-qPCR. The prognostic value of NBR2 for NSCLC was explored by performing a 5-year follow-up
study. The interaction between NBR2 and TGF-β1 in two NSCLC cell lines was detected by overexpression
assay, followed by RT-qPCR and Western blot analysis. Flow cytometry was performed to
evaluate the role of NBR2 and TGF-β1 in regulating NSCLC cell stemness.

Results:

NBR2 was significantly downregulated in NSCLC tissues than that in non-cancer tissues of
NSCLC patients, and low expression levels of NBR2 predicted poor survival. TGF-β1 was significantly
upregulated in NSCLC tissues than that in non-cancer tissues, and was inversely correlated with
NBR2. Overexpression of NBR2 downregulated TGF-β1, while overexpression of TGF-β1 did not
affect the expression of NBR2. Overexpression of NBR2 inhibited, while overexpression of TGF-β1
promoted NSCLC cell stemness. Overexpression of TGF-β1 attenuated the effects of overexpression
of NBR2. Mechanically, NBR2 interacted with Notch1 protein to inhibit its expression, thereby inhibiting
the expression of TGF-β1 and further affecting the proportion of CD133+ cells.

Conclusion:

LncRNA NBR2 regulates cancer cell stemness and predicts survival in NSCLC possibly
by downregulating TGF-β1 through Notch1.
Impurities Present in Cardiovascular Active Substances and Medicinal
Products: A Pharmacopoeial Perspective
Authors: Sharma Arvind K. , Ali Faraat , Prakash Anuj , Goyal Ramesh K.
Published: August 2022

The quality of drugs is a major concern for drug regulatory authorities and other stake-holders across the globe. Recently, drug regulatory authorities across the globe are facing a chal-lenge in controlling the purity of cardiovascular (CVS) drugs for human use, especially drugs from the Angiotensin Receptor Blocker family, such as Valsartan. The present article aims to provide comprehensive knowledge on how pharmacopeias worldwide play a key role in ensuring the quality of active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) and finished pharmaceutical products (FPPs). In this ar-ticle, the focus is on comprehensive information regarding pharmaceutical impurities, separation strategies, relevant regulatory guidelines to control impurities, and their acceptable limits, particu-larly with respect to cardiovascular active drug substances and drug formulations for human use.
Current Outlooks on Machine Learning Methods for the Development of
Industrial Homogeneous Catalytic Systems
Authors: Ferraz-Caetano José
Published: August 2022

This brief perspective outlines the pivotal role of Machine Learning methods in the green, digital transition of industrial chemistry. The focus on homogenous catalysis highlights the recent methodologies in the development of industrial processes, including the design of new catalysts and the enhancement of sustainable reaction conditions to lower production costs. We report several examples of Machine Learning assisted methodologies through recent Data Science trends on innovation of industrial homogeneous organocatalytic systems. We also stress the current benefits, drawbacks, and limitations towards the mass implementation of these Data Science methodologies.
Macro and Micronutrients: An Overview
Authors: Chiplonkar Shashi A.
Published: August 2022

We eat food for survival, to get enough energy to work and maintain good
health. This is possible through a variety of chemical substances in food, such as
nutrients, non-nutritional compounds and also certain helpful microorganisms. These
food constituents assist in producing energy from food and play specific roles in
normal body functioning, growth and development. We spend energy in carrying out
internal body functions such as digestion, and in doing physical activities. The concept
of energy balance to maintain desirable body weight is explained in this chapter.
Amongst nutrients, carbohydrates, proteins, and fats are macronutrients, that we require
in large amounts. Raw and cooked foods rich in macronutrients are described with
examples. Types of carbohydrates, proteins, composition of dietary fats and oils,
essential fatty acids and cholesterol levels in foods are also illustrated. Food also
contains micronutrients –vitamins and minerals, that the body needs in small amounts.
Micronutrients are essential for many body functions. We need to obtain both the
macro and micronutrients daily from the diet in desired quantities, known as
Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA). The interrelationship of macro and
micronutrients in metabolic functions is elucidated in this chapter. Similarly, the
fundamental knowledge about basic food groups and nutritive values of foods, the
bioavailability of macronutrients and their role in biological functions are explained. A
brief outline of the potential role of protein, fat and carbohydrate intake in obesity,
metabolic disorders and health is also provided.
YETERSİZLİĞE EBEVEYN TEPKİLERİ ÖLÇEĞİ: GELİŞTİRME VE PSİKOMETRİK ÖZELLİKLERİ
Authors: ARDIÇ Avşar , BALOĞLU Mustafa , OLÇAY Seray , KESİCİ Şahin
Published: August 2022

Yeni bir üyenin aileye katılımının aile üzerinde olumlu ve olumsuz etkileri olmaktadır. Ailenin yeni üyesinin bir yetersizliği olması durumunda; ailenin işlevinin bozulduğu, bireylerin rollerinin değiştiği ve ailenin bu duruma psikolojik tepkiler verdiği alanyazında vurgulanmaktadır. Ailenin tepkilerini açıklayan modeller içinde en yaygın kabul göreni, Kübler-Ross tarafından yas travması için geliştirilen aşama modelidir. Bu çalışmanın amacı, Kübler-Ross tarafından geliştirilen bu modele dayalı olarak, ailenin yetersizliğe verdiği tepkileri ölçecek geçerli ve güvenilir bir nicel araç geliştirmektir. Bu amaç doğrultusunda, Ebeveyn Tepkileri Ölçeğinin (ETÖ) maddelerini oluşturmak için nicel yöntem kullanılmıştır. Aşamalar sonucunda elemelerden sonra geriye kalan 98 madde beşli Likert tipi ölçek formatına dönüştürülmüş ve toplam 304 yetersizliği olan çocuğun ebeveynine uygulanmıştır. Bu uygulamada elde edilen veriler ile ETÖ’nün faktör yapısı, geçerliliği ve güvenirliği incelenmiş ve sonuçlar rapor edilmiştir. ETÖ toplam 5 faktörden (şok, inkar ve suçluluk, pazarlık, depresyon, farkındalık ve kabul) oluşan bir yapı göstermektedir.
Examining Consumer Preferences and Willingness to Pay for Organic Vegetable Attributes: Using a Discrete Choice Experiment
Authors: Dewi Heptari , Aprilia Anisa , Hardana Andrean , Pariasa Imaniar
Published: August 2022

This research aims to identify consumer attitudes toward organic green vegetables by estimating the degree of Willingness To Pay (WTP) for various attributes to evaluate the position of these organic vegetables and determine preferences for organic green vegetables based on income. This study used an online survey with 191 respondents on Java Island. The Discrete Choice Experiment was used to investigate product selection, WTP, and the relationship between the four characteristics of vegetables and income. The findings showed that consumers prefer organic and pesticide-free vegetables that are good for health, have low chemical emissions and a lower environmental impact, and are less expensive than non-organic vegetables. This is a challenge for producers and marketers to develop responsible input management strategies to produce high-quality vegetables at a low cost and with minimal environmental impact.
Meta-Analysis of Temperament Differences between Children Who Do and Do Not Stutter
Authors: Lee Kyungjae
Published: August 2022

Purpose: Stuttering is a multi-factorial disorder and temperament is believed to be related to the onset of stuttering. The primary purpose of the current study was to determine whether there would be differences in temperament between pre-school children who stutter (CWS) and children who do not stutter (CWNS) by meta-analysis. Methods: Five databases (three Korean and two English databases) were used in the current study for article search. A total of 23 articles (22 English, one Korean) met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed in the current study. Effect sizes (Coehen's d) were calculated for each outcome. Results: There was a significant difference in the overall temperament between CWS and CWNS. Furthermore, there was a significant difference in two out of four temperamental areas. When measured by parental report and behavioral observation there was a significant difference in temperament between the two groups, but not by physiological measure. Conclusion: The meta-analysis results showed that CWS would have a different temperament from CWNS. Future research is needed on how temperament would influence the development of stuttering.
Knowledge of and Attitudes Toward Hearing Loss, Hearing Aids, and Cochlear Implants in Adults
Authors: Kim Chang Kyu , Bahng Junghwa
Published: August 2022

Purpose: This study investigates the knowledge of and attitudes toward hearing loss and hearing aids (HA) and cochlear implants (CI) based on background. Methods: A total of 356 adults, including users of HA and CI participated with a variety of background variables, including age, use of amplification, experience with hearing-impaired listeners, and educational majors in audiology and speech-language pathology. The group completed 10 questions on their knowledge of and attitudes toward hearing loss, HA and CI. Results: Almost all the participants understood HA and CI, but HA and CI users had a low level of knowledge of hearing loss, HA and CI. Participants had positive attitudes toward HA and CI. However, HA and CI current users were mystified by their hearing devices. They had no negative attitudes toward hearing devices that is worn by people with hearing loss, but non-users felt uncomfortable if others noticed they were using HA and CI. Students with audiology and speech-language pathology majors showed greater knowledge and more positive attitudes toward hearing loss and HA and CI. Conclusion: Despite most participants having a good knowledge of hearing loss, current device users had a rather low level of knowledge about hearing loss and their devices. These results indicate that users need more education about hearing loss and their own devices. Further, some non-users felt a stigma toward the use of HA and CI. These results suggest that more education is needed for better knowledge and more positive attitudes toward hearing loss and both HA and CI.
Understanding the Interactions Between Driving Behavior and Well-being in Daily Driving: Causal Analysis of a Field Study
Authors: Stephan Paul , Wortmann Felix , Koch Kevin
Published: August 2022

Background

Investigating ways to improve well-being in everyday situations as a means of fostering mental health has gained substantial interest in recent years. For many people, the daily commute by car is a particularly straining situation of the day, and thus researchers have already designed various in-vehicle well-being interventions for a better commuting experience. Current research has validated such interventions but is limited to isolating effects in controlled experiments that are generally not representative of real-world driving conditions.

Objective

The aim of the study is to identify cause–effect relationships between driving behavior and well-being in a real-world setting. This knowledge should contribute to a better understanding of when to trigger interventions.

Methods

We conducted a field study in which we provided a demographically diverse sample of 10 commuters with a car for daily driving over a period of 4 months. Before and after each trip, the drivers had to fill out a questionnaire about their state of well-being, which was operationalized as arousal and valence. We equipped the cars with sensors that recorded driving behavior, such as sudden braking. We also captured trip-dependent factors, such as the length of the drive, and predetermined factors, such as the weather. We conducted a causal analysis based on a causal directed acyclic graph (DAG) to examine cause–effect relationships from the observational data and to isolate the causal chains between the examined variables. We did so by applying the backdoor criterion to the data-based graphical model. The hereby compiled adjustment set was used in a multiple regression to estimate the causal effects between the variables.

Results

The causal analysis showed that a higher level of arousal before driving influences driving behavior. Higher arousal reduced the frequency of sudden events (P=.04) as well as the average speed (P=.001), while fostering active steering (P<.001). In turn, more frequent braking (P<.001) increased arousal after the drive, while a longer trip (P<.001) with a higher average speed (P<.001) reduced arousal. The prevalence of sunshine (P<.001) increased arousal and of occupants (P<.001) increased valence (P<.001) before and after driving.

Conclusions

The examination of cause–effect relationships unveiled significant interactions between well-being and driving. A low level of predriving arousal impairs driving behavior, which manifests itself in more frequent sudden events and less anticipatory driving. Driving has a stronger effect on arousal than on valence. In particular, monotonous driving situations at high speeds with low cognitive demand increase the risk of the driver becoming tired (low arousal), thus impairing driving behavior. By combining the identified causal chains, states of vulnerability can be inferred that may form the basis for timely delivered interventions to improve well-being while driving.
Implementing a Virtual Emergency Department: Qualitative Study Using the Normalization Process Theory
Authors: Shuldiner Jennifer , Srinivasan Diya , Hall Justin N , May Carl R , Desveaux Laura
Published: August 2022

Background

COVID-19 necessitated the rapid implementation and uptake of virtual health care; however, virtual care’s potential role remains unclear in the urgent care setting. In December 2020, the first virtual emergency department (ED) in the Greater Toronto Area was piloted at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre by connecting patients to emergency physicians through an online portal.

Objective

This study aims to understand whether and how ED physicians were able to integrate a virtual ED alongside in-person operations.

Methods

We conducted semistructured interviews with ED physicians guided by the Normalization Process Theory (NPT). The NPT provides a framework to understand how individuals and teams navigate the process of embedding new models of care as part of normal practice. All physicians who had worked within the virtual ED model were invited to participate. Data were analyzed using a combination of inductive and deductive techniques informed by the NPT.

Results

A total of 14 physicians were interviewed. Participant experiences were categorized into 1 of 2 groups: 1 group moved to normalize the virtual ED in practice, while the other described barriers to routine adoption. These groups differed in their perception of the patient benefits as well as the perceived role in the virtual ED. The group that normalized the virtual ED model saw value for patients (coherence) and was motivated by patient satisfaction witnessed (reflexive monitoring) at the end of the virtual appointment. By contrast, the other group did not find virtual ED work reflective of the perceived role of urgent care (cognitive participation) and felt their skills as ED physicians were underutilized. The limited ability to examine patients and a sense that patient issues were not fully resolved at the end of the virtual appointment caused frustration among the second group.

Conclusions

As further digital integration within the health care system occurs, it will be essential to support the evolution of staff skill sets to ensure physicians are satisfied with the care they are providing to their patients, while also ensuring the technology and process are efficient.
Long-term Weight Loss in a Primary Care–Anchored eHealth Lifestyle Coaching Program: Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Hesseldal Laura , Christensen Jeanette Reffstrup , Olesen Thomas Bastholm , Olsen Michael Hecht , Jakobsen Pernille Ravn , Laursen Ditte Hjorth , Lauridsen Jørgen Trankjær , Nielsen Jesper Bo , Søndergaard Jens , Brandt Carl Joakim
Published: August 2022

Background

Long-term weight loss in people living with obesity can reduce the risk and progression of noncommunicable diseases. Observational studies suggest that digital coaching can lead to long-term weight loss.

Objective

We investigated whether an eHealth lifestyle coaching program for people living with obesity with or without type 2 diabetes led to significant, long-term (12-month) weight loss compared to usual care.

Methods

In a randomized controlled trial that took place in 50 municipalities in Denmark, 340 people living with obesity with or without type 2 diabetes were enrolled from April 16, 2018, to April 1, 2019, and randomized via an automated computer algorithm to an intervention (n=200) or a control (n=140) group. Patients were recruited via their general practitioners, the Danish diabetes organization, and social media. The digital coaching intervention consisted of an initial 1-hour face-to-face motivational interview followed by digital coaching using behavioral change techniques enabled by individual live monitoring. The primary outcome was change in body weight from baseline to 12 months.

Results

Data were assessed for 200 participants, including 127 from the intervention group and 73 from the control group, who completed 12 months of follow-up. After 12 months, mean body weight and BMI were significantly reduced in both groups but significantly more so in the intervention group than the control group (–4.5 kg, 95% CI –5.6 to –3.4 vs –1.5 kg, 95% CI –2.7 to –0.2, respectively; P<.001; and –1.5 kg/m2, 95% CI –1.9 to –1.2 vs –0.5 kg/m2, 95% CI –0.9 to –0.1, respectively; P<.001). Hemoglobin A1c was significantly reduced in both the intervention (–6.0 mmol/mol, 95% CI –7.7 to –4.3) and control (–4.9 mmol/mol, 95% CI –7.4 to –2.4) groups, without a significant group difference (all P>.46).

Conclusions

Compared to usual care, digital lifestyle coaching can induce significant weight loss for people living with obesity, both with and without type 2 diabetes, after 12 months.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03788915; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03788915
A Study on Diversity and Distribution of Figs (Ficus, Moraceae) in Bogor City, West Java, Indonesia
Authors: Peniwidiyanti Peniwidiyanti , Qayim Ibnul , Chikmawati Tatik
Published: August 2022

Ficus (Moraceae) is a keystone resource species in the tropical region, and it contributes significantly to Bogor City's vegetation composition. Ficus spp. provide habitat for urban animals and contribute to providing environmental services for the community. Minimum data distribution and increasing land-use change possibly decrease Ficus diversity in Bogor City. This study aimed to analyse the diversity and distribution of Ficus spp. in Bogor City. The research was conducted by dividing Bogor City into 128 plots sized 1 x 1 km. Relative abundance and distribution analysis used QGIS version 3.10.2-A Coruña. A total of 37 species of Ficus spp. from six subgenera were found in Bogor. The highest distribution is mainly located around the Bogor Botanic Gardens and the Ahmad Yani City Forest in a tree and hemiepiphyte. Ficus benjamina and Ficus septica were the most common species found and spread throughout Bogor City. The significant land-use change in Bogor City has resulted in Ficus spp. generally spread in the northern and central parts. In contrast, in the southern part, they are relatively low. Some Ficus can also be bioindicators because they have growing habitats that tend to be specific and spread in certain areas. The presence of the Bogor Botanic Gardens has an important role in increasing the diversity of Ficus spp. in Bogor City.
Anatomical and Histological Characteristics of Gonad of Tropical Eel Anguilla bicolor McClelland, 1844 in Different Length Body Size
Authors: Rachmawati Farida Nur , Affandi Ridwan , Sistina Yulia
Published: August 2022

The sex status of Anguilla bicolor McClelland is difficult to be distinguished between males and females. Thus, we evaluated 309 fishes from The Serayu River, with length and weight range around 9 - 81 cm and 0.59 - 1260 g respectively to access the anatomical and histological characteristics of their gonads for each sex. Parameters assessed were body sizes, eye diameter, fin length, and gonad weight. The results showed that body length, weight, eye index, and gonadosomatic index of the male were significantly smaller (p<0.01) than those of the females. Fins index was not significantly different (p>0.05) between males and females. The histological structure of gonad showed that the eel gonads can be classified as either indifferent gonads, testis, or ovary based on the length of body size. Collecting all the data together it can be concluded that A. bicolor is a gonochoric.
Effectivity of Spodoptera littoralis Nucleopolyhedrovirus (SpliMNPV) and Natural Additives Mixtures against Spodoptera litura Fab. (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) on Cabbage Plants
Authors: Sukirno Sukirno , Prasetya Bellia Alda Ayu , Pandu Aryo Seto , Sumarmi Siti , Purwanto Hari , Sudaryadi Ignatius , Suparmin Suparmin , Soesilohadi RC Hidayat
Published: August 2022

Armyworm (Spodoptera litura Fab.) is one of the agricultural pests that can cause huge losses especially for Indonesian farmers because it is damaging various crops, especially cabbage (Brassica oleifera L.). Spodoptera littoralis nucleopolyhedrovirus (SpliMNPV) is one of the biological agent which is effective for the management of the Spodoptera litura. However, because of UV radiation it easily degraded when applied in the fields. This study was aimed to determine the effectivity of several indigenous plants for UV protectant of SpliMNPV for controlling armyworm at greenhouse scale. Extracts of 2% (w/v) of turmeric rhizome, red betel leaf, moringa leaf, and clove flower, were formulated with SpliMNPV and sprayed evenly onto two-month- old cabbages. The experiment used five replicates with six periods of sunlight exposures (0, 1, 3, 5, 7, and 15 days). A commercial product of deltamethrin was used as a comparison. The sprayed leaves were then used as a bioassay by using 25 individuals of one day old 1st larval instar by five replicates. The results showed that the turmeric additive was the most effective as a UV protectant and effectively prolonged the half-life of SpliMNPV to 4.12 days, while for clove, moringa leaf, and red betel was 2.48, 2.15, and 2.28 days, respectively.
Survey of Salary and Job Satisfaction of Transplant Nephrologists in the United States
Authors: Singh Neeraj , Doshi Mona D. , Schold Jesse D. , Preczewski Luke , Klein Christina , Akalin Enver , Leca Nicolae , Nicoll Kimberly , Pesavento Todd , Dadhania Darshana M. , Friedewald John , Samaniego-Picota Milagros , Bloom Roy D. , Wiseman Alexander C.
Published: August 2022

Background and objectives

There are no standardized benchmarks to measure productivity and compensation of transplant nephrologists in the United States, and consequently, criteria set for general nephrologists are often used.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

A web-based survey was sent to 809 nephrologists who were members of the American Society of Transplantation to gather data on measures of productivity, compensation, and job satisfaction. Factors associated with higher total compensation and job satisfaction were examined.

Results

Of 365 respondents, 260 were actively practicing in the United States and provided data on compensation. Clinical productivity was assessed variably, and although 194 (76%) had their work relative value units (wRVUs) reported to them, only 107 (44%) had an established RVU target. Two hundred thirty-four respondents (90%) had fixed base compensation, and 172 (66%) received a bonus on the basis of clinical workload (68%), academic productivity (31%), service (32%), and/or teaching responsibility (31%). Only 127 respondents (49%) filled out time studies, and 92 (35%) received some compensation for nonbillable transplant activity. Mean total compensation (base salary and bonus) was $274,460±$91,509. The unadjusted mean total compensation was higher with older age and was higher for men; Hispanic and White respondents; adult care transplant nephrologists; residents of the western United States; US medical school graduates; nonuniversity hospital employees; and those with an administrative title, higher academic rank, and a higher number of years in practice. Two hundred and nine respondents (80%) thought their compensation was unfair, and 180 (70%) lacked a clear understanding of how they were compensated. One hundred forty-five respondents (55%) reported being satisfied or highly satisfied with their job. Job satisfaction was greater among those with higher amounts of compensation and US medical school graduates.

Conclusions

We report significant heterogeneity in the assessment of productivity and compensation for transplant nephrologists and the association of compensation with job satisfaction.
Effect of MIG Welding Parameters on the Mechanical Properties of AISI 304 Austenitic Stainless Steels
Authors: M. Jebbur Amjed , Abed AlKareem Salah S. , Mustafa Faiz F.
Published: August 2022

The present research  investigates joints welding of 304L austenitic stainless steel using metal inert gas (MIG) welding method. The research explores the effect of process parameters (arc voltage, wire feed rate, and electrode wire diameter) on the mechanical properties of stainless steel.  The above variables are varied  respectively with 18.5, 19, 19.5 V, 116, 127, 137 mm/s, and 0.8, 1, 1.2 mm, with E308L as a filler electrode. The design matrix of the experiments was determined using the design of experiment (DOE) program Minitab 17 based on the levels of input elements used. The Taguchi orthogonal matrix methodology (Taguchi) technique was used to develop some empirical analysis for the maximum tensile strength and proper surface hardness as a function of the welding parameters mentioned above. The ( ) analysis was used to statistically verify the model's adequacy. The results show that the wire feed rate had  the greatest effect on the tensile strength of the welded joints when choosing the medium level of arc voltage (19 V), while the arc voltage had a substantial influence on the micro-hardness of all welded joints. The weld-joint zone is given a higher micro-hardness value compared to the base metal zone.
Effect of Mass Ratio on Phytoremediation of Nickel Contaminated Water
Authors: Taha Maha , Abdulwahab Al-Baldawi Israa , Sheikh Abdullah Siti Rozaimah , Ismail Nur ’Izzati , Shamran Jasim Salwa
Published: August 2022

Water pollution is one of the global challenges that the society must address in the 21st century aiming to improve the water quality, reduce human pollutants and ecosystem health impacts. In phytotoxicity test, the plant of Iresine herbstii was exposed to remove nickel from simulated wastewater using two different ratios (mass of plant to the mass of nickel) (,Rp/Ni) for 21 days with sub-surface batch system. During the exposure period, the removal of Ni concentrations (2, 5 and 10 mg/L) for two mass ratio (2,800 and 34,000) were (83.6%, 77.2%, 78.0%) and (86.8%, 97% and 95.6%), respectively. final result of the rate was found that the highest removal occurred, 97%, at a mass ratio of 34,000 and a nickel concentration of 5 mg/L. Metal accumulation mechanism of plants were examined using bioconcentration factor (BCF) and translocation factor (TF) of metals which indicated that I. herbstii is suitable for phytostabilization of Ni (BCF>1 and TF<1). Therefore, the ability of I. herbstii to treat wastewater contaminated with nickel that I. herbstii is considered a potential plant to remove Ni from contaminated water.
Estimate and Analysis the Availability of Generator in Electric Power Plant Using ANN
Authors: Awad Asmaa J. , Ahmed Ahmed A. , Abdulateef Osamah F.
Published: August 2022

The large number of failure in electrical power plant leads to the sudden stopping of work. In some cases, the necessary reserve materials are not available for maintenance which leads to interrupt of power generation in the electrical power plant unit. The present study, deals with the determination of availability aspects of generator in unit 5 of Al-Dourra electric power plant. In order to evaluate this generator's availability performance, a wide range of studies have been conducted to gather accurate information at the level of detail considered suitable to achieve the availability analysis aim. The Weibull Distribution is used to perform the reliability analysis via Minitab 17, and Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) by approaching of Feed-Forward, Back-Propagation. Operating data from the years 2015–2017 were used to calculate the availability by traditional method (Weibull distribution) and train the ANNs, while data from the year 2018 of operation were used to verify the model. The study implies that the ANN may be able to forecast the availability of the generator with a correlation coefficient (R) 0.99874 and a Mean Square Error (MSE) 5.6937E-06 between the availability predicted by ANN and Weibull distribution output.