bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pelletization of Biomass Feedstocks: Effect of Moisture Content, Particle Size and a Binder on Characteristics of Biomass Pellets
Authors: Ahmed Imran , Ali Asif , Ali Babar , Hassan Mahdi , Hussain Sakhawat , Hashmi Hammad , Ali Zafar , Soomro Ahsanullah
Published: June 2021

Pelletization of low value added biomass materials such as furfural residue (FR) and sawdust was performed by using a lab scale pelletizer. Effects of moisture content (MC), particle size and a binder on quality parameters (e.g. pellet density, strength and hardness) and on energy consumption were investigated. Quality of pellets was analysed and compared. MC was found to be the more dominant parameter affecting pellet density, strength and hardness of furfural residue pellets (FRPs) and sawdust pellets (SPs), followed by particle size and a binder. Highest particle density of 1.419 g/cm3 for FRPs (0.5–1.41 mm) and 1.243 g/cm3 for SPs (0.25–0.5 mm) was achieved at MC of 8% and 18%. Highest decrease in relaxed density was observed at MC of 13% for FRPs and 28% for SPs. True density of FRPs and SPs made from particles of 0.25–0.5 mm was found higher than 0.5–1.41 mm. The highest strength and hardness (6.29 MPa and 401.3 N/mm2) for FRPs was achieved at 5.5% MC and particles 0.25–0.5 mm. Optimum strength (6.03 MPa) and hardness (96.06 N/mm2) for SPs was obtained at 18% MC and particles 0.25–0.5 mm. The lowest energy consumption (16.16 J/g) for FRPs (0.25–0.5 mm) and 20.22 J/g for SPs (0.5–1.41 mm) was achieved at MC of 13% and 28%. Addition of binding agent to FR sawdust decreased energy consumption of FRPs and SPs. SPs quality was enhanced with the use of a binder. Heating value of FRPs were found higher than SPs.
Effects of dietary and health factors on nutritional status of children under pastoral settings in Borana, southern Ethiopia, August–October 2015
Authors: Megersa Bekele , Haile Abebe , Kitron Uriel
Published: June 2021

Background: Childhood undernourishment is a serious public health problem globally, and being responsible for higher mortalities in children and enormous health costs in sub-Saharan Africa. However, scarcity of data on the magnitude of malnutrition and underlying causes especially in the pastoral system limits the effectiveness of potential interventions. This study was intended to investigate the nutritional status and associated factors among children in Borana pastoral system, southern Ethiopia.Methods: A community based cross-sectional study, using multistage cluster sampling, was conducted from August to October 2015. Dietary diversity score (DDS), milk and meal frequencies, anthropometric measurements, and socio-economic variables were recorded for 538 children aged 6 – 59 months. Multivariable generalized linear model (GLM) with log link function was applied to ascertain determinants of malnutrition. The strength of association was assessed with prevalence ratio (PR). Results: Underweight, stunting, and wasting was prevalent in 28.3% (95% CI: 24.4, 32.1), 41.1% (95% CI: 36.7, 45.1), and 9.8% (95% CI: 7.3, 12.4) of the children, respectively. Children who consumed more diverse foods were at lower risk of being underweight (PR=0.72, 95%CL: 0.59–0.88), stunted (PR=0.80, 95%CL: 0.68–0.93) and wasted (PR=0.42, 95%CL: 0.27–0.66) compared to others. Intake of increased milk frequency was also associated with lower risk of underweight (PR=0.86, 95%CL: 0.76–0.97), stunting (PR=0.83, 95%CL: 0.75–0.91) and wasting (PR=0.73, 95%CL: 0.56–0.96). The risk of underweight (PR=1.02, 95%CL: 1.01–1.03) stunting (PR=1.01, 95%CL: 1.00–1.02), and wasting (PR=1.01, 95%CL: 1.00–1.04) was significantly increased with age whilst no difference was observed between boys and girls. Children who lived far away from health care facilities were 1.2 and 1.4 times more likely to be stunted and wasted than those residing nearby. Ownership of toilet and living close to market were associated with reduced stunting while illness was associated with increased risk of underweight. Conclusion: The high prevalence of stunting among pastoral children is a serious public health concern, and calls for urgent action. Association of nutritional status with dietary intake, health status, access to health services and toilet availability underlines the need for improved feeding practices, health care and sanitary conditions in the pastoral community.
Distance Visual Acuity Versus Near Visual Acuity in Amblyopia.
Authors: ahadi masoumeh , Ebrahimi Afsaneh , Ramin Shahrokh
Published: June 2021

Purpose: To measure and compare distance and near visual acuity in amblyopic patients.Methods: This study was evaluated 167 patients with amblyopia between ages of 6 and 55 years. In all subjects, a comprehensive ophthalmic examination including visual acuity, refraction, slit lamp biomicroscopy, and funduscopy was performed. Distance visual acuity (DVA) was measured by Snellen chart at 4 m and near visual acuity (NVA) was measured by Snellen chart at 40 cm, and then DVA and NVA were compered and analyzed.Results:In our subjects, the mean distance and near visual acuity was 0.39± 0.30 log MAR and 0.30± 0.32 log MAR respectively. The mean NVA was 0.12±0.12 log MAR better than DVA and difference between them was statistically significant (P<0.001). In 40% of patients, there were no difference between DVA and NVA, and in 60% of them, NVA was 0.1 or more log MAR better than DVA. The difference between DVA and NVA was not significantly related with age (p=0.225), spherical equivalent (P=.820) and strabismus (P=.336) and type of amblyopia (P=.405). Although all of these subjects had subnormal DVA, but 43 subjects (26%) had normal NVA. In mild and moderate amblyopic groups, difference between DVA and NVA was 0.14±0.10 log MAR and 0.15±0.14 log MAR respectively, but in severe amblyopic group it was 0.03±0.08 log MAR. The difference between DVA and NVA showed a significant relation with severity of amblyopia (P<0.001). The difference between DVA and NVA was 0.16±0.11 log MAR in patients with history of amblyopia therapy and 0.07.± 0.11 log MAR in patients without treatment. This difference was statistically significant (P<0.001).Conclusion: Our results showed that near visual acuity in amblyopia especially in mild to moderate types was significantly better than distance visual acuity. More than 50% of subjects with mild amblyopia had normal near visual acuity. The difference between DVA and NVA showed no relation with age, spherical equivalent, strabismus, and type of amblyopia. Also, difference between the DVA and NVA in patients with history of amblyopia therapy was better than of it in non-treated subjects.
A Randomized, Parallel Control And Multicenter Clinical Trial of Evidence-Based Traditional Chinese Medicine Massage Treatment VS External Diclofenac Diethylamine Emulgel For The Treatment of Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Wenyue Wang , Yingpeng Xu , Quanmao Ding , Li-min Xie , De-zhi Wang , Yang Bai , Li-su Wang , Yu-bin Li , Zhi-jun Niu , Yan-xu Ma , Wu-zhong Chen , Li-qun Bai , Yang Liu , Li-kun Jin
Published: June 2021

Background: Both massage and topically administered NSAIDs are safe and effective treatment for knee osteoarthritis (KOA); however, different massage technique sects in China caused assessment difficulties for the treatment of KOA. In order to standardize massage techniques and procedures, we organized multi-disciplinary experts in China to acquire an evidence-based traditional Chinese medicine massage treatment of knee osteoarthritis. The purposes of this study are to evaluate the efficacy and safety of evidence-based traditional Chinese medicine massage treatment of KOA compared to External Diclofenac Diethylamine Emulgel.Methods and design: 300 participants diagnosed with KOA will be randomly divided into the experimental group, control group, and waiting list group in a ratio of 2:1. The participants will receive evidence-based traditional Chinese medicine massage 2 sessions per week for 10 weeks or External Diclofenac Diethylamine Emulgel 3-4 times per day for 10 weeks respectively. The MRI scans and X-ray will be performed at baseline and the end of the intervention period. The main evaluation index will include the Western Ontario and McMaster Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC). The secondary evaluation index will include：(1) WOMAC each dimension; (2) the PRO scale for knee osteoarthritis based on the concept of Traditional Chinese Medicine（Chinese scale for knee osteoarthritis, CSKO）; (3) MRI scan and X-ray evaluation.Discussion: The results of our study will help to evaluate efficacy and safety of evidence-based traditional Chinese medicine massage treatment of KOA compared with External Diclofenac Diethylamine Emulgel combined with clinical, X-ray and MRI changes. Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR1800014400. Registered on 10 January 2018.
A Decomposition and Dynamic Programming Aggregation Method for the Optimal Water Allocation of Reservoirs in Series
Authors: Gong Zhihao , Cheng Jilin , Cheng Haomiao , Gong Yi
Published: June 2021

Research on water allocation of multiple reservoirs with the purpose of reducing water spills and improving the local runoff utilization is a matter of great concern in humid areas with uneven temporal and spatial distributions of water resources. An optimization model for a system of reservoirs in series is developed to minimize water shortages. Several constraints restrict the objective function, including available water, operation rules and water rights for replenishment of the reservoirs with water. The model features multiple dimensions with a single coupling constraint of the large-scale system. A decomposition and dynamic programming aggregation method (DDPA) is proposed; the subsystem models and the aggregation model are both solved with the classical one-dimensional dynamic programming. Compared with the conventional decomposition-coordination method, the proposed method is concise but reliable because it can directly use the results of subsystems to form the one-dimensional dynamic programming aggregation model, avoiding the iterative calculations according to the coordinating function. Compared with the meta-heuristic algorithms, the proposed method is more efficient because it is independent of any algorithm parameter. The proposed method may provide a new reference for solving similar multi-reservoir optimization models.
EdgeTrust - A Lightweight Data-centric Trust Management Approach for Green Internet of Edge Things
Authors: Awan Kamran Ahmad , Din Ikram Ud , Almogren Ahmad , Khattak Hasan Ali , Rodrigues Joel J.P.C.
Published: June 2021

Internet of Things (IoT) is bringing revolution into today’s world where devices in our surroundings become smart and perform daily-life activities and operations with more precision. The architecture of IoT is heterogeneous as it provides autonomy to nodes that they can communicate among other nodes and can also exchange information at any period. Due to the heterogeneous environment, IoT faces numerous security and privacy challenges, and one of the most significant challenges is the identification of malicious and compromised nodes. In this article, we have proposed a Machine Learning-based trust management approach for edge nodes. The proposed approach is a lightweight process to evaluate trust because edge nodes cannot perform complex computations. To evaluate trust, the proposed mechanism utilizes the knowledge and experience component of trust where knowledge is further based on several parameters. To eliminate the triumphant execution of good and bad-mouthing attacks, the proposed approach utilizes edge clouds, i.e., local data centers, to collect recommendations to evaluate indirect and aggregated trust. The trustworthiness of nodes is ranked between a certain limit where only those that satisfy the threshold value can participate in the network. To validate the performance of a proposed approach we have performed an extensive simulation in comparison with the existing approaches and the result shows the effectiveness of the proposed approach against several potential attacks.
Design and Simulation of Physical Layer Security for Next Generation Intelligent Optical Networks
Authors: marudhai valarmathi , Prince Shanthi , Kumari Shayna
Published: June 2021

With the latest technological advancements and attractive features of next generation intelligent optical networks such as high bandwidth, low power consumption, and low transmission loss, etc., they have been considered as most viable solution to satisfy promptly growing bandwidth demands. However, main optical network components bring forth a set of security challenges and reliability issues, accompanied by new vulnerabilities within the network. This paper proposes a new design for an optical encryption and decryption method for enhancing optical network security using p-i-n photodiode which generates Pseudo Random Binary Sequence (PRBS) as a shot noise fluctuations and wavelength converter based design using Semiconductor Optical Amplifier (SOA) based XOR gate which utilizes Cross-Phase Modulation (XPM). The system performance based on Bit Error Rate (BER) and Q factor are analyzed at different data rates for different link lengths up to 100 km using OptiSystem. It is observed that error free transmission with a BER of 10-12 is achieved a data rate of 10Gbps for a link length of only 30 Km for the system with PIN photodiode’s shot noise being used for PRBS sequence generation. However, wavelength conversion based system enables transmission of signal at 10Gbps signal up to a link length of 90Km.
Performance Analysis of Vanets Routing Protocols
Authors: Harrabi Samira , Jaafar Ines Ben , Ghedira Khaled
Published: June 2021

Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks (VANETs) are a particular class of Mobile Ad Hoc Networks (MANETs). The VANETs provide wireless communication among vehicles and vehicle-to-road-side units. Even though the VANETs are a specific type of MANETs, a highly dynamic topology is a main feature that differentiates them from other kinds of ad hoc networks. As a result, designing an efficient routing protocol is considered a challenge. The performance of vehicle-to-vehicle communication depends on how better the routing protocol takes in consideration the particularities of the VANETs. Swarm Intelligence (SI) is considered as a promising solution to optimize vehicular communication costs. In this paper, we explore the SI approach to deal with the routing problems in the VANETs. We also evaluate and compare two swarming agent-based protocols using numerous QoS parameters, namely the average end-to-end delay and the ratio packet loss which influence the performance of network communication.
Monitoring Passive Wireless Devices
Authors: Naor Zohar
Published: June 2021

This study suggests using a user-initiated detecting and data gathering from power-limited and even passive wireless devices, such as passive RFID tags, wireless sensor networks (WSNs), and Internet of Things (IoT) devices, that either power limitation or poor cellular coverage prevents them from communicating directly with wireless networks. While previous studies focused on sensors that continuously transmit their data, the focus of this study is on passive devices. The key idea is that instead of receiving the data transmitted by the sensor nodes, an external device (a reader), such as an unnamed aerial vehicle (UAV), or a smartphone is used to detect IoT devices and read the data stored in the sensor nodes, and then to deliver it to the cloud, in which it is stored and processed. While previous studies on UAV-aided data collection from WSNs focused on the UAV path planning, the focus of this study is on the rate at which the passive sensor nodes should be polled. That is, to find the minimal monitoring rate that still guarantees accurate and reliable data collection. The proposed scheme enables us to deploy wireless sensor networks over a large geographic area (e.g., for agricultural applications), in which the cellular coverage is very poor if any. Furthermore, the usage of initiated data collection can enable the deployment of passive WSNs. Thus, can significantly reduce both the operational cost, as well as the deployment cost, of the WSN.
Predictors of Fetal Macrosomia Among Women Delivering at a Tertiary Hospital in Tanzania: A Case Control Study
Authors: Ngadaya Emmanuel Imani , Rweyemamu Maria Angelica , Mwampagatwa Proffesor Ipyana Hudson , Lilungulu Athanase Gervase
Published: June 2021

Purpose: The study aimed at assessing predictors of fetal macrosomia at Iringa Regional Referral hospital in Tanzania. It is currently challenging to predict fetal macrosomia before delivery which possess women to an increasing risk of sustaining adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. Methods: A case-control study design in which cases were women who delivered babies weighing ≥ 4000g while controls were those who delivered babies weighing 2500g to 3500g. Purposive sampling technique was employed to recruit both controls and cases. A total of 216 participants were included. This was an unmatched case control study. SPSS version 25 software program was used for data entry and analysis. Chi-squared test, P-value, unadjusted and adjusted logistic regression were used to determine statistical significant. Results: Predictors of fetal macrosomia at Iringa Regional Referral hospital were advanced gestation age (AOR=8.10, 95% CI 3.66-17.91, p=<0.0001) and diabetes mellitus during pregnancy (AOR =14.94, 95% CI 1.60 -39.91, p= 0.0178).Conclusion: Women with advanced gestation age and diabetes mellitus during pregnancy are at an increased risk of delivering a macrosomic baby. Assessing predictors of fetal macrosomia will enable early prediction and intervention of women with fetal macrosomia hence preventing further maternal and fetal adverse outcomes.
Transcriptomic Analysis of the Maize Mutant TC19 Identifies Genes Regulating the Development of Grain Size Through the IAA and BR Pathways
Authors: Zhang Yanrong , Jiao Fuchao , Li Jun , Pei Yuhe , Zhao Meiai , Song Xiyun , Guo Xinmei
Published: June 2021

Backgrounds: Grain size is a key factor in crop yield that gradually develops after pollination. However, few studies have reported gene expression patterns in maize grain development using mutants. To investigate the developmental mechanisms of grain size, we analyzed a large-grain mutant, named TC19, at the morphological and transcriptome level at five stages corresponding to days after pollination (DAP).Results: After maturation, the grain length, width, and thickness in TC19 were greater than that in Chang 7-2 (control) and increased by 3.57%, 8.80%, and 3.88%, respectively. Further analysis showed that grain width in TC19 was lower than in Chang 7-2 at 7, 14, and 21 DAP, but greater than that in Chang 7-2 at 28 and 35 DAP, indicating that 21 to 28 DAP was the critical stage for kernel width development. For all five stages, the concentrations of indole-3-acetic acid and brassinosteroids were significantly higher in TC19 than in Chang 7-2. Gibberellin was higher at 7, 14, and 21 DAP, and cytokinin was higher at 21 and 35 DAP, in TC19 than in Chang 7-2. Through transcriptome analysis at 14, 21, and 28 DAP, we identified 2987, 2647, and 3209 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between TC19 and Chang 7-2. Gene Ontology analysis indicated that most of the grain size–related genes corresponded to three aspects, including cell components, molecular functions, and biological processes. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis showed that 77 DEGs were enriched in the plant hormone signal transduction pathway. We further analyzed several highly expressed candidate genes, including AO2, ARF3, and IAA15, which are involved in the synthesis of IAA; and DWF4 and XTH, which are involved in the synthesis of BR.Conclusions: Our results elucidated the mechanisms of grain size development at the grain-filling stage and have potential application in maize breeding.
Legitimacy and procedural justice: how might stratospheric aerosol injection function in the public interest?
Authors: Grasso Marco
Published: June 2021

The success of stratospheric aerosol injection (SAI) in limiting global heating requires the inclusion and maintenance of the political ideals of legitimacy and procedural justice. Without them, the prospects are slim that this institution can be developed and operated in the public interest in such a way that it will protect and promote social well-being by minimising climate-related harm. Long term legitimacy and procedural justice are crucial to several sensitive features of SAI. They relate to openness, inclusivity and independence, in dealing both with external issues of concern to stakeholders representing the general public and with internal issues concerning agents directly involved in SAI. This article begins by outlining notions of legitimacy and procedural justice, and the criteria appropriate for SAI. Then it investigates how the moral indications provided by the related standards might ensure that SAI is not distorted in such ways that it serves the selfish interests of private parties. Finally, the article outlines two governance recommendations for ensuring that legitimacy and procedural justice in SAI are achieved and maintained over time, so that it can work continuously in the public interest.
Larvicidal and Oviposition Activity of Against Vector Aedes Aegypti and Molecular Docking Studies of Metabolites from the Crude Extract of the Endophytic Fungus Aspergillus Sp. Isolated from Bertholletia Excelsa Humn. & Bonpl.
Authors: Araújo Inana F. , Marinho Victor Hugo , Sena Iracirema S , Curti Jhone , Ramos Ryan S. , Ferreira Ricardo M.A , Souto Raimundo N. P. , Ferreira Irlon
Published: June 2021

This work showed the crude extract of the endophytic fungus Aspergillus sp, isolated from the almonds of Bertholletia excelsa Humn & Bonlp collected in the Brazilian Amazon, oviposition deterrent, and larvicidal activity of against Aedes aegypti. In the oviposition deterrence test was observed that females able to lay eggs preferred the control oviposition sites (46.6%), suggesting the extract also could repel the oviposition. Futhermore, the extract showed larvicidal activity with LC50 26.86 µg/mL at 24 hours and 18.75 µg/mL at 48 hours. Molecular docking studies were carried out to elucidate the mechanism of action of the compounds identified against the enzyme acetylcholinesterase. The compound Aspergillol B was a potent larvicide with potential for inhibition for the acetylcholinesterase enzyme (-7.74 Kcal/mol). These unprecedented results reported indicate that the secondary metabolites obtained from crude extract of Aspergillus sp. present useful biological potential against vectors of public health importance and antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Characterization, Whole-Genome Sequencing and Phylogenetic Analysis of Three H3N2 Avian Influenza Viruses Isolated From Domestic Ducks at Live Poultry Markets of Iran, 2017: First Report
Authors: Abtin Alireza , Shoushtari Abdolhamid , Pourbakhsh Seyed Ali , Mehrabadi MohammadHossein Fallah , Pourtaghi Hadi
Published: June 2021

Avian influenza type A viruses (AIV) can infect a broad range of hosts including human and birds, making them an important viral pathogen with zoonotic potential. Among birds, ducks are a known reservoir for many avian viruses including the AIV. During migration seasons in Iran, this bird species is generally at a high risk of being infected by free-living aquatic birds. In this study, 962 cloacal swabs were collected from domestic ducks at several live poultry markets (LPMs) of Gilan, Mazandaran and Golestan provinces of Iran in the year 2017. Preliminary assays such as HI, NI, MDT, ICPI and RT-qPCR suggested that 0.5% of the birds were infected by H3 low pathogenic influenza viruses (LPAI). Three isolates were selected for whole genome sequencing. The cleavage site of the HA genes showed a PEKQTR/GLF motif, an indicator of LPAI. Furthermore, BLAST and phylogenetic analyses of the HA gene showed high homology to the Eurasian lineage of H3N8 AIV (95.5–97.1% to several European and East Asian isolates). However, the NA genes showed high homology (at most 96.5–96.9%) to those belonging to AIV N2 subtype. Furthermore, internal genes showed high homology (96–98%) to a variety of duck-origin subtypes and glycoprotein combinations, which were different for each segment. This showed a complex reassortment between different subtypes. Our report is the first whole genome sequencing and complete characterization of H3N2 AIV from Iran. Such surveillance should continue to study the evolution and possible emergence of viruses with pandemic potential.
Polyphasic Taxonomy of Four Passalora-like Taxa Occurring on Fruit and Forest Trees
Authors: Bakhshi Mounes , Zare Rasoul , Braun Uwe , Taheri Hossein
Published: June 2021

Species of Passalora s. lat. are eminent phytopathogenic fungi that cause generally leaf spot diseases on a broad variety of plants throughout the world. During our investigations exploring cercosporoid fungi associated with leaf spot symptoms of fruit and forest trees in northern and north-western Iran, several passalora-like infections were isolated from symptomatic leaves of different trees belonging to the Fabaceae, Malvaceae, Rosaceae and Ulmaceae. A polyphasic taxonomic approach by applying molecular data, morphological features and host data, was employed to identify the isolates. In a multi-gene phylogenetic analysis (LSU, ITS and RPB2), these isolates clustered in four clades in the Mycosphaerellaceae. The revealed taxa encompass Paracercosporidium microsorum on Tilia platyphyllos, Prathigadoides gleditsiae-caspicae gen. et. sp. nov. on Gleditsia caspica, Pruniphilomyces circumscissus on Prunus avium and Prunus cerasus, and Sirosporium celtidis on Celtis australis. The new genus Prathigadoides and its type species Prathigadoides gleditsiae-caspicae are molecularly distinct from all phylogenetically related genera, and some characteristics of the conidiophores and conidia differs from those of the morphologically similar species Prathigada condensata on the North America Gleditsia triacanthos.
Edge function in patchy mussel bed habitats: variation across nearby rocky shore sites
Authors: Soria Sabrina Andrea , Gutiérrez Jorge Luis , Gonzalez Juliana Andrea , Callá Sofía Luz , Palomo María Gabriela
Published: June 2021

Mussels form dense three-dimensional beds that serve as habitat to other species. In rocky shores, these beds are often interspersed by gaps due to patchy dislodgement/mortality caused by the action of waves, predators, and/or extreme temperatures. Although mussel patches and gaps are known to support distinctive invertebrate communities, variations in invertebrate habitat function between the interior and edges of mussel patches and gaps were not yet examined. Here, we evaluated variations in habitat properties and invertebrate composition between the edge and interior of mussel (Brachidontes rodriguezii) patches and gaps at three rocky shore sites in the Southwestern Atlantic. Our results indicate that the interior and edge of mussel patches differ in terms of mussel size and density (i.e., a surrogate of habitat structure) and the amount of sediments they accumulate. However, this does not directly translate into consistent differences on temperature, desiccation, and invertebrate composition across sites. As it concerns to gaps, we generally observed increased limpet (Siphonaria lesonii) densities at their edges, which suggests that they encounter favourable conditions by the perimeter of mussel patches. The lack of consistent edge effects on the invertebrates of mussel patches suggests that their species composition would remain largely unaffected by expected increases in gap and edge habitat formation due to ongoing increases in the frequency and magnitude of storms and heat waves. Yet, if increased availability of edge habitats leads to increased overall density of limpets in these rocky shores, then changes could be expected in algal production, composition, and dynamics.
Documenting Plans for Care: Advance Care Directives and the 7-Step Pathway in the Acute Care Context
Authors: Crawford Gregory Brian , Hodgetts Katherine Susan , Burgess Teresa , Eliott Jaklin Ardath
Published: June 2021

Background

Advance care planning (ACP) involves the discussion and documentation of an individual’s values and preferences to guide their future healthcare should they lose capacity to make or communicate treatment decisions. ACP can involve the individual’s completion of an Advance Care Directive (ACD), a legislated and common-law instrument which may include appointment of a substitute decision-maker and binding refusals of treatment. In South Australia, ACDs intersect in the acute-care context with the Resuscitation Plan 7-Step Pathway (7-SP), an integrated care plan written for and by clinicians, designed to organise and improve patients’ end-of-life care through the use of structured documentation. Here, we examine the perspectives of healthcare professionals (HPs) within a hospital setting on the practical integration of ACDs and the 7-SP, exploring the perceived role, function, and value of each as they intersect to guide end-of-life care in an Australian hospital setting.
Methods

Qualitative data were collected via eight focus groups with a total of 74 HPs (palliative care, acute care, and oncology specialists; medical intern; general and emergency nurses; social workers) across two hospitals. Audio recordings were transcribed and thematically analysed.
Results

HPs viewed ACDs as a potentially valuable means of promoting patient autonomy, but as rarely completed and poorly integrated into hospital systems. Conversely, the process and documentation of the 7-SP was perceived as providing clarity about clinicians’ responsibilities, and as a well-understood, integrated resource. Participants sometimes exhibited uncertainty around which document takes precedence if both were present. Sometimes, the routinisation of the 7-SP meant it was understood as the ‘only way’ to determine patient wishes and provide optimal end-of-life care. When this occurs, the perceived authority of ACDs, or of patients’ choice not to participate in end-of-life discussions, may be undermined.
Conclusions

The intersection of ACDs and the 7-SP appears problematic within acute care. Clinicians’ uncertainty as to whether an ACD or 7-SP takes precedence, and when it should do so, suggests a need for further clarity and training on the roles of these documents in guiding clinical practice, the legislative context within which specific documentation is embedded, and the dynamics associated with collaborative decision-making in end-of-life care.
Nitrogen Sources in Spineless Cactus-Based Diets for Sheep in Finishing
Authors: Ferraz Lucíola Vilarim , Pessoa Ricardo Alexandre Silva , Milanês Tarlan Oliveira , Maciel Maria Inês Sucupira , Suassuna Juraci Marcos Alves , Santos Kelly Cristina dos , Cardoso Daniel Barros , Júnior Dorgival Morais de Lima , Véras Antonia Sherlânea Chaves , de Carvalho Francisco Fernando Ramos
Published: June 2021

This study evaluated the effect of different sources of nitrogen [soybean meal (SM); cottonseed meal (CM); cottonseed + urea (CU); and urea (U)] associated with spineless cactus on intake, digestibility, performance, carcass characteristics and meat quality of confined lambs. Forty male Santa Inês sheep, uncastrated, with initial body weight of 23.00 ± 1.66 kg were distributed in random blocks design and slaughtered after 58 days of confinement. Dry matter (DM) intake (1.16 ± 0.19 kg/day) did not differ (P > 0.05) between nitrogen sources, but the intake of crude protein (CP) and non-fibrous carbohydrates (NFC) was lower (P < 0.05) for sheep consuming CU. Sheep fed with diets containing U had lower digestibility of DM, CP and NFC (P < 0.05). The average daily gain (0.15 ± 0.04 kg/day) and the slaughter body weight (32.07 ± 2.86 kg) did not differ between nitrogen sources, but the cold carcass and loin weight was lower (P < 0.05) for sheep fed with U. The water retention capacity and meat protein content were greater (P < 0.05) for animals fed with SM. Soybean meal or cottonseed meal associated with spineless cactus-based diets for sheep meat production are recommended because it allows greater DM digestibilityand improves carcass characteristics and physicochemical composition of the meat.
Socio-Demographic Factors Associated with Medication Adherence Among People Living with HIV in Kumasi Metropolis, Ghana.
Authors: Adu Collins , Mensah Kofi Akohene , Ahinkorah Bright Opoku , Seidu Abdul-Aziz , Minta Anita Yeboah , Tetteh Andrews William
Published: June 2021

Background Medication adherence plays a great role in the survival of people living with HIV globally. In Ghana, there is a considerable decline in the prevalence rate of HIV/AIDS, however, the number of people on antiretroviral therapy keeps adding up. We assessed the socio-demographic factors associated with medication adherence among people living with HIV in Kumasi Metropolis, Ghana. Method A quantitative study using descriptive, and analytical cross-sectional study design was carried out among 420 people living with HIV (PLHIV) accessing healthcare at Kumasi South Regional Hospital. A structured questionnaire was used to gather information on medication adherence and socio-demographic factors influencing medication adherence. Analyses of the data were done using Excel version 2013 and Stata version 14.2. The descriptive data were presented using frequencies and percentages. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to establish the association between socio-demographic factors and adherence to medication among people living with HIV. Statistical significance for all testing was set as p<0.05. Results About 69 out of 100 PLHIV accessing healthcare at Kumasi South Regional Hospital adhered to their medication. Socio-demographic factors such as age and monthly disposable income were established to be influencing medication adherence among PLHIV. For instance, PLHIV aged more than 41 (aOR=12.67; CI= 1.36-118.11) were more likely to adhere to medication as compared to those aged 18-23. Also, PLHIV who earned less than GH₵500 (aOR=2.18; CI= 1.05-4.50) were more likely to adhere to medication as compared to those who earned more than GH₵1,000. Conclusion Majority of PLHIV adhered to their medication. Therefore, policy makers such as Ghana AIDS Commission, Ministry of Health, Ghana Health Service, and National AIDS Control Programme should consider factors such as socio-demographic factors when designing and implementing programmes on medication adherence among PLHIV.
SWB MIMO Antenna with Dual Band Rejection Characteristics and Polarization Diversity for UWB Applications
Authors: Bahmanzadeh Faezeh , Mohajeri Farzad
Published: June 2021

In this paper a super wide band 2-element MIMO antenna with dual band-notched characteristics and high isolation is presented for use in broadband polarization diversity communication systems. Total dimensions of the fabricated antenna is 34 × 60 mm2 and achieves a super wide impedance matching of more than 15 GHz from 2.3 to 18 GHz due to the simulated and measured results which covers L, S, C, X, Ku bands and some parts of K band with two notched frequency bands around 3.1 – 3.7 GHz for WiMAX and 5.1 – 5.8 GHz for WLAN which realized by etching two half-wavelength elliptic single complementary split-ring resonators (ESCSRRs) of different dimensions on the radiating patches. This antenna comprises two identical elements which placed orthogonally to each other and fed by two 50Ω coplanar waveguide (CPW) lines, therefore an isolation of more than 20 dB is obtained autonomously without utilizing any other special technique. Diversity performance in terms of envelop correlation coefficient (ECC< 0.0035), multiplexing efficiency (ηmux > -1 dB) and diversity gain (DG > 9.99 dB) are also calculated, showing satisfactory MIMO characteristics.
Can the Number of Coagulase-negative Staphylococci Specimens Detected be an Alternative Quality Indicator to the Blood Culture Contamination Rate?
Authors: Yamamoto Kei , Mezaki Kazuhisa , Ohmagari Norio
Published: June 2021

Purpose: Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) are the most frequent contaminating bacteria; hence, we aimed to investigate an indicator of CoNS to predict the increase in blood culture contamination rate (ConR).Methods: We performed a retrospective study of selected patients who underwent blood culture testing.Results: Cases with CoNS-positive blood cultures correlated with ConR (r=0.85). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curves for the number of cases with ConR ≥ 2.5 did not differ statistically from that of the number of cases contaminated by CoNS. Conclusion: The number of CoNS-positive cases could help predict an increase in ConR ≥2.5.
Social and Psychosocial Factors Affecting Eating Habits Among University Students in Syria: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Alolabi Homam , Alchallah Mhd Obai , Mohsen Fatema , Marrawi Marah , Alourfi Zaynab
Published: June 2021

Background: Syrian eating habits are trending towards westernized patterns that are high in carbohydrates, fats, and meat. This accompanied by an increasingly sedentary lifestyle has affected young adults’ dietary habits. As a consequence, obesity and overweight young adults are significantly increasing in prevalence. This study aims to assess the pattern of eating habits and their relation with psychosocial factors among university students. The objective of this study is to identify factors associated with eating habits and psychological factors.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among Syrian Private University students using a self-administrated questionnaire. The questionnaire consisted of 3 sections: socio-demographic characteristics, eating habits, and psychosocial factors. Hierarchical multivariate linear regression was used to obtain factors associated significantly with eating habit score and psychological factors.Results: Of 728 students included in the study 398 (54.7%) were females. Overweight and obese participants represented 154 (21.4%) and 49 (6.8%) respectively. 316 (43.4%) were smokers and 135 (18.5%) drank alcohol. Only 233 (32%) and 306 (42%) had meals and breakfast regularly respectively. Participants’ mean total of eating habits was 5.96 (SD ± 1.95). Multivariate analysis revealed smoking, exercising, living with family, and “eat because of feeling happy” were factors significantly associated with eating habits score and psychological factors (p<0.05). Conclusions: Most of the students demonstrated healthy eating habits. The identified socio-demographic factors associated with eating habits can be used to provide lifestyle modification advice via health promotion programs targeted at these specific groups.
TGF-β1 is Involved in Senescence-Related Pathways in Glomerular Endothelial Cells by p16 Translocation and p21 Induction.
Authors: Ueda Sayo , Tominaga Tatsuya , Ochi Arisa , Sakurai Akiko , Nishimura Kenji , Shibata Eriko , Wakino Shu , Tamaki Masanori , Nagai Kojiro
Published: June 2021

p16 is an inhibitor of cyclin-dependent kinases and regulating senescence-mediated arrest as well as p21. The expression of p16 has been evaluated in human kidney diseases. However, the regulation of p16 nuclear translocation has yet to be fully investigated. TGF-β1 is well-known to be one of the major cytokines in developing kidney diseases. TGF-β1 can upregulate p21 expression and be involved in the process of senescence. In contrast, the relationship between TGF-β1 and p16 has been poorly investigated. Here, we report the role of TGF-β1-Smad3 pathway to regulate the p16 behavior in glomerular endothelial cells. To clarify the role of TGF-β1 in the regulation of p16, we analyzed podocyte-specific TGF-β1 overexpression mice. In glomeruli, p16 was found in the nuclei of glomerular endothelial cells, leading to endothelial cellular senescence. However, the expression level of p16 was not increased in glomeruli. In cultured endothelial cells, TGF-β1 induced nuclear translocation of p16 without the increase in p16 expression. Among human glomerular diseases, p16 was detected in the nuclei of endothelial cells. In summary, we could show the novel role of podocyte TGF-β1 in the management of p16 behavior and cellular senescence in glomeruli, which has clinical relevance for human glomerular diseases.
Phenotypic Plasticity and a New Small Molecule are Involved in a Fungal-bacterial Interaction
Authors: Andrade-Domínguez Andrés , Trejo-Hernández Abigail , Vargas-Lagunas Carmen , Encarnación-Guevara Sergio
Published: June 2021

Nitrogen-fixing bacteria have been extensively studied in the context of interactions with their host plants; however, little is known about the phenotypic plasticity of these microorganisms in nonmutualistic interactions with other eukaryotes. A dual-species coculture model was developed by using the plant symbiotic bacterium Rhizobium etli and the well-studied eukaryote Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a tractable system to explore the molecular mechanisms used by R. etli in nonmutual interactions. Here, we show that the fungus promotes the growth of the bacterium and that together, these organisms form a mixed biofilm whose biomass is ~ 3 times greater and is more structured than that of either single-species biofilm. We found that these biofilm traits are dependent on a symbiotic plasmid encoding elements involved in the phenotypic plasticity of the bacterium and on the production of a small molecule secreted by the fungal cells. These results show that investigating interactions between species that do not naturally coexist (new encounters) is a new approach to discover gene functions and specialized metabolites in model organisms.
Prognostic Value of Metabolic Activity of the Psoas Muscle Evaluated By Preoperative 18 F- FDG PET-CT in Breast Cancer: A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Kim Keunyoung , Kim In-Ju , Pak Kyoungjune , Kang Taewoo , Seol Young Mi , Choi Young Jin , Kim Hyojeong
Published: June 2021

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the potential of metabolic activity of the psoas muscle measured by 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography-computed tomography to predict treatment outcomes in patients with resectable breast cancer.Methods: The medical records of 288 patients who had undergone surgical resection for stages I–III invasive ductal carcinoma of the breast between January 2014 and December 2014 in Pusan National University Hospital were reviewed. The standardized uptake values (SUVs) of the bilateral psoas muscle were normalized using the mean SUV of the liver. SUVRmax was calculated as the ratio of the maximum SUV of the average bilateral psoas muscle to the mean SUV of the liver. SUVRmean was calculated as the ratio of the averaged bilateral psoas muscle to the mean SUV of the liver.Results: Univariate analyses identified a higher T stage, higher N stage, estrogen receptor negativity, progesterone receptor negativity, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 positivity, triple-negative breast cancer, mastectomy (rather than breast-conserving surgery), SUVRmean > 0.464, and SUVRmax > 0.565 as significant adverse factors for progression-free survival (PFS). Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that N3 stage (hazard ratio [HR] = 5.347, P = 0.031) was an independent factor for recurrence. An SUVRmax > 0.565 (HR = 4.987, P = 0.050) seemed to have a correlation with shorter PFS.Conclusions: A higher SUVRmax of the psoas muscle, which could be a surrogate marker of insulin resistance, showed strong potential as an independent prognostic factor for recurrence in patients with resectable breast cancer.
Novel Similarity Measures, Entropy of Intuitionistic Fuzzy Sets and their Application in Software Quality Evaluation
Authors: Nguyen Xuan Thao , Chou Shuo Yan
Published: June 2021

Intuitionistic fuzzy sets (IFSs), including member and nonmember functions, have many applications in managing uncertain information. The similarity measures of IFSs proposed to represent the similarity between different types of sensitive fuzzy information. However, some existing similarity measures do not meet the axioms of similarity. Moreover, in some cases, they could not be applied appropriately. In this study, we proposed some novel similarity measures of IFSs constructed by combining the exponential function of membership functions and the negative function of non-membership functions. In this paper, we also proposed a new entropy measure as a stepping stone to calculate the weights of the criteria in the proposed multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) model. The similarity measures used to rank alternatives in the model. Finally, we used this MCDM model to evaluate the quality of software projects.
The Characteristics and Origin of Amber Deposits in the Dominican Republic
Authors: Stach Paweł , Natkaniec-Nowak Lucyna , Dumańska-Słowik Magdalena , Kosakowski Paweł , Naglik Beata , Drzewicz Przemysław , Misiak Jacek , Pršek Jaroslav , George Carlos , Gomez Ramon Elias Ramirez
Published: June 2021

Mineralogical and geochemical characteristics of amber deposits located in the Dominican Republic, i.e., Hato Mayor Province of the Eastern Mining District (EMD) in the Cordillera Oriental, and Santiago Province of the Northern Mining District (NMD) in the Cordillera Septentrional were performed. The results of analyses of amber-bearing sediments collected from the borehole in Siete Cañadas area (EMD) were referenced to the petrological data obtained for the coaly shales from La Cumbre (NMD). The mineralogy of the rocks was described using transmitted and reflected light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, Powder X-ray diffraction and Fourier Transform Raman Spectroscopy. Biomarker analyses by the gas chromatography-mass spectrometry were used to trace the genetic source and transformation stage of abundant organic matter hosted in the core sediments. Our findings indicated that basins in EMD and NMD regions were different isolated palaeosettings, in which under the influence of local physicochemical factors the terrigenous material was transformed and got maturated. In both amber deposits, the sedimentation of clastic and organic material proceeded in the presence of marine conditions. In case of the NMD area, the sedimentation underwent probably in the conditions of the lagoon environment, a shallow maritime lake or periodically flooded plain, that facilitated organic matter decomposition and carbonation from meta-lignite to sub-bituminous coal (random reflectance of coal - Rro = 0,39%). In the EMD region, the sedimentation took place in a deeper basin, where terrigenous material was likely mixed with material found in situ (fauna fossils, carbonate-group minerals) to form the mudstones enriched in bituminous substance of low maturity. The organic matter found in the rocks from both regions is of mixed terrestrial/marine origin and was deposited in the presence of low oxygen concentration and reducing and/or dysoxic conditions.