bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Management of congenital flexural tendon contractures with stretching in calves
Authors: SAĞLAM K
Published: November 2021

It has been reported that mild to moderate congenital flexural limb contractures of the calves can be treated with stretching. This study was carried out on eleven calves with mild to moderate flexural foot - tendon contractures (three mild and eight moderate cases). The mild cases were treated successfully with only splints or wooden hoof block/PVC application adhered to the ground under the sole of the hoof with acrylic adhesive. The moderate cases, however,were treated successfully with the combined application in which a splint was placed on an entire limb to correct it and then a wooden hoof block/PVC was adhered to the ground under the sole of the hoof with an acrylic adhesive.
Effect of supplementing flaxseed oil on growth and carcass traits of Friesian bulls
Authors: ABU EL-HAMD MA , MAHMOUD S , ALI MF , HEGAZY MM , HAMADA HM , EL-MAGD MA
Published: November 2021

This study aimed to evaluate effects of supplementing flaxseed oil (FSO) on growth and carcass traits, as well as meat chemical composition, quality, and fatty acids (FA) profile in Friesian bulls. The bulls (n = 30) were randomly divided into 3 groups (G1-G3, n = 10/group). In G1 (control), animals fed basal diet, while in G2 and G3, they were supplemented with 2% and 4% FSO, respectively, for ~ 7 months. The obtained results revealed that bulls fed diet supplemented with 2% (G2) and 4% (G3) FSO had significantly higher TDN intake (P ˂ 0.01) and average daily gain (P ˂ 0.05) than G1. Additionally, G3 showed significantly higher hot carcass weight (P<0.001), dressing % (P<0.05), fat weight (P<0.05), boneless meat weight (P<0.001), 9-11th ribs cut weights (P<0.05), DM (P<0.01), CP (P<0.05), and CF (P<0.05) in eye muscle, and general cooked meat quality (P<0.05) than G1. However, meat of G3 had significantly (P<0.05) lower water-holding capacity than G1. Meat contents of C20:0 and C22:0 SFAs were significantly higher in G3 (P<0.05) than G1, while C14:0, C15:0, and C17:0 were significantly (P<0.05) lower in G3 and G2 than G1. C16:1 trans-9 MUFA was significantly higher in G3 (P<0.01) and G2 (P<0.05) than G1, while C18:1 cis-9 +trans-13-14 and C20:1 cis-11 were significantly lower in G3 (P<0.001) and G2 (P<0.05) than G1. Among the 2 treated groups, only G3 had significantly higher C17:1 cis-9 (P<0.05), C18:1 cis-11+trans15 (P<0.01), and C18:1 cis-15+trans-16 (P<0.01) and significantly lower C16:1 cis-7 (P<0.05) and C18:1 trans-12 (P<0.01) than G1. Meat contents of C18:3 n-3 (ALA), C22:5 n-3 (EPA) and C22:6 n-3 (DHA) was significantly higher in G3 (P<0.0001) and G2 (P<0.05) than G1. The total n-3 FAs content in meat was significantly (P<0.0001) higher in G3 and G2 than G1, while only G3 showed significantly higher total PUFA (P<0.05) than G1. The n-6:n-3 ratio was significantly (P<0.0001) lower in G3 and G2 than G1. With these results, we could conclude that flaxseed oil supplementation in bull diets could improve growth performance, and carcass quality and increase omega-3 FA in animal meat.
Molds and Aflatoxins in Traditional Moldy Civil Cheese: Presence and Public Health Concerns
Authors: ONMAZ NE , ÇINICIOĞLU S , GUNGOR C
Published: November 2021

The purpose of this study was to detect the mold biota, the contamination levels of total aflatoxin (AFB1, AFB2, AFG1, AFG2) and aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) in moldy civil cheese. A total of 100 moldy civil cheese were collected from randomly selected retailers. Mold biota was determined with conventional and ITS sequence analysis, and Aflatoxin (AF) analysis was performed usingEnzyme-Linled Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). In the analyzed samples, Penicillium roqueforti (100%) was isolated as the dominant species followed by P. verrucosum (83%), Aspergillus flavus (17%). Fifteen (15 %) of moldy civil cheese samples contained AF with levels ranging from 12 to 378 ng/kg.Likewise, AFM1 was found in 25 (25 %) of samples (ranging from 5.46 to 141.56 ng/kg), among which 5 (5 %) were above the legal limits. Considering the presence of A. flavus, total AF and AFM1 contamination in the analyzed cheese samples it could be emphasized that moldy civil cheese might pose a hazard for public health.
Radiation and Environmental Aspects of Advanced Nuclear Energy
Authors: Linge I. , Utkin S.
Published: November 2021

The article focuses on the role of radiation criteria and its evolution in the structure of arguments underlying the establishment, operation and development of nuclear energy. It demonstrates that the dominant role of radiation criteria should be reconsidered to allow broader consideration of environmental and other factors associated with sustainable development.

Based on in-depth analysis of certain aspects relevant for the mutual development of nuclear energy and radiation and environmental safety requirements, the paper shows that fully-fledged regulatory and technological systems have been deployed to date to ensure the radiation safety of workers and the public: these systems cover all the tasks required to be addressed to limit the technogenic exposure under normal operation. At the same time, an unprecedented gap was noticed between the actual role of radiation factor across human health risks and its perception by the overwhelming part of society.

In the near future (some hundred years), urgent tasks in the field of radiation safety will be driven, on the one hand, by the need to ensure the internal consistency of the national security system addressing health risks in general, and on the other, by global processes in the world economy associated with slow growth in energy demand, rapid reduction in the share of fossil fuels in almost all sectors of the economy among the developed countries, including transport, growing general environmental trends towards material recycling and decarbonization. The study shows what should be the attitude to radiation risks so that the nuclear energy could successfully meet the requirements arising from these trends. In this regard, the paper also provides some rational interpretation of the principle suggesting that no undue burden should be imposed on future generations.
RESEARCH ROUNDUP
Authors: Mcgloin Claudia
Published: November 2021

In this regular feature, aesthetic nurse Claudia McGloin presents a brief synopsis of a range of recently published articles on medical aesthetics. Research roundup aims to provide an overview, rather than a detailed summary and critique, of the papers selected. Should you wish to look at any of the papers in more detail, a full reference is provided at the end of each study summary
Improving mental health outcomes for aesthetic nurses
Authors: Cairns Kimberley
Published: November 2021

Kimberley Cairns shares her expert opinion on how mental health outcomes can be improved for aesthetic nurses with solution-focused, accessible and practical tips
The complaints agenda for the surgical and non-surgical aesthetics market
Authors: Taber Sally
Published: November 2021

Sally Taber provides an update on issues that have been raised by members of the public as part of the Joint Council for Cosmetic Practitioners' complaints procedure
Christ and the Principle of Alternative Possibilities
Authors: Johnson Randall Kenneth
Published: November 2021

Classical Christology provides reason to reject the principle of alternative possibilities [PAP]. The Gethsemane prayer highlights an instance in which Jesus Christ performs a voluntary and morally significant action which he could not have done otherwise, namely, Christ’s submission to God’s will. Two classical Christological doctrines undermine PAP: (1) impeccability, and (2) volitional non-contrariety. Classical Christology teaches that Christ could not sin, and that Christ’s human will could not be contrary to his divine will. Yet, classical Christology also teaches that Christ’s death is voluntary and morally praiseworthy. First, I present the relevant elements of classical Christology: dyothelitism, impeccability, and volitional non-contrariety. Second, I define and disambiguate varieties of PAP. Third, I show that Christ’s prayer in Gethsemane disproves PAP. I respond to several objections along the way. Finally, I reflect on the implications of denying PAP.
Method Development and Validation for the Trace Level Quantification of Genotoxic Impurity Oseltamivir Phosphate Related Compound-a in Oseltamivir Phosphate Using LC-MS
Authors: Viswanath Pikkili , Reddy Doddipalli Venkata Ramana , Chamarthi Nagaraju
Published: November 2021

A selective and sensitive method has been developed for the determination of ethyl-(3S,4R,5S)-4-acetamido-5-amino-2-azido-3-(pentan-3-yloxy)cyclohexanecarboxylate (OSPRC-A) by using liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometer with single mass analyzer (LC-MS).The method was developed by using column DEVELOSIL ODS-UG-5, (50×3.0 mm, 5.0 µm) with linearity range of 0.005% to 0.0151% which meets to quantification level of 150% range. The column oven temperature was maintained at 40ºC. The flow rate was set as 1.5 mL/min. Injection volume was 10 µL and the detection wavelength was 215 nm. The signal to noise ratio values obtained were found to be 4.79 at concentration level of 0.00015% for the limit of detection (LOD) and 13.46 at concentration level of 0.0005% for the limit of quantification (LOQ). The % recovery was found to be in between the range 80.0% to 101.32% at LOQ to 150% level. The result obtained in method precision and intermediate precision are found to be within the specification limit. The percentage RSD for the content of OSPRC-A of method precision was 4.26. The percentage RSD for the content of OSPRC-A for intermediate precision was 4.00. The sample prepared in analytical solution was found to be stable for 24 h. This method can be used for the identification of impurity, OSPRC-A in Oseltamivir phosphate drug substances in its manufacturing.
Effect of Rate and Quantum Yield of 1-alkyl-2-(arylazo) Imidazoles on the Surface of Silver Nps
Authors: Gayen Pallab
Published: November 2021

1-Alkyl-2-(arylazo)imidazole(RaaiR/) exists in trans-structure about –N=N- bond at ambient condition. Upon optical excitation in UV region the trans-RaaiR/ isomerises to cis-RaaiR/. The photochromism is very susceptible to internal substituents and external environment like solvent polarity, viscosity and presence of innocent foreign molecule. The changes from cis-to-trans occurs slowly in visible light excitation it has significantly faster rate at higher temperature. In this work we have studied the effect of silver nanoparticle on the photochromic activity of RaaiR/. The quantum yield of the photoisomerisation is dropped by 9-27% in inclusion phase AgNPs@RaaiR/ than free state and the order of rate is: free state > silver nano particle. The activation energy (Ea) of cis to trans isomerisation is also diminished compared to free state of photochrome.
Measurement of the refractive index at cryogenic temperature of absorptive silver thin films used as reflectors in a Fabry–Perot cavity
Authors: Rosenziveig Kevin , Soumann Valérie , Abbé Philippe , Dubois Benoît , Cohadon Pierre-François , Passilly Nicolas , Galliou Serge
Published: November 2021

Data on the refractive index of silver thin films are scarce in the literature, and largely dependent on both the deposition method and thickness. We measure the refractive index of silver films at cryogenic temperature with a technique that takes advantage of the absorption of the films and the corresponding peculiar properties of Fabry–Perot cavities: a frequency shift between the reflection and transmission peaks, together with a modified cavity bandwidth. We demonstrate a decrease in the real value of the refractive index, together with a decrease in its imaginary value at 4 K.
Temperature drift compensation of a FOG based on an HKSVM optimized by an improved hybrid BAS-GSA algorithm
Authors: Liu Jianguo , Chen Xiyuan
Published: November 2021

In this paper, the optimal hybrid kernel support vector machine is employed to propose a compensation strategy intended for the temperature drift of a fiber optical gyroscope (FOG). First, the mode of the hybrid kernel with an interpolation and extrapolation capability is constructed, which consists of the radial basis function and the polynomial kernel function. Second, the combination model of the beetle antennae search algorithm and gravitational search algorithm that has both local and global search capability is proposed to optimize the structure-related parameters of a hybrid kernel support vector machine (HKSVM). Finally, the proposed approach is trained and tested using the experimental data of temperature drift at two different rates of temperature change (10°C/min and 5°C/min). In addition, the proposed method is validated against those conventional compensation algorithms. According to the research results, the compensation error (mean squared error) of the proposed approach is reduced by 92% compared to the traditional support vector machine based on the radial basis function.
Wideband full double-pass serial hybrid fiber amplifier utilizing L-shape configuration
Authors: Khudhair Aseel A. , Ali M. H. , Abass A. K.
Published: November 2021

In this work, a new, to the best of our knowledge, full double-pass serial hybrid fiber amplifier is simulated on OptiSystem 7.0 software. A wideband flat gain spectrum covered both conventional and long communication bandwidth (C+L) from 1530 to 1590 nm, which is approximately 60 nm with high average gain of 23.6 dB; acceptable noise figure of 7 dB is achieved via the L-shape configuration. The main innovative step in the proposed design is decreasing the cascading amplification effect between the combined amplifiers, by making the individual full double-pass for the input signal in each amplifier stage.
Dynamic displacement measurement in digital holographic interferometry using eigenspace analysis
Authors: Ramaiah Jagadesh , Gannavarpu Rajshekhar
Published: November 2021

Non-contact measurement of displacement undergone by a deformed object is an important application problem in digital holographic interferometry. Such measurements usually demand reliable estimation of interference phase even in the presence of severe noise. This article describes a method for non-contact displacement testing by investigating a robust phase retrieval approach in digital holographic interferometry. The approach is based on eigenspace processing of the complex interference field signal in digital holographic interferometry. The performance of the proposed method for phase retrieval under severe noise conditions is illustrated using simulation results. The practical utility of the proposed method is demonstrated for dynamic deformation analysis using experimental data from digital holographic interferometry.
Polarization in diffractive optics and metasurfaces
Authors: Rubin Noah A. , Shi Zhujun , Capasso Federico
Published: November 2021

Polarization, the path traced by light’s electric field vector, appears in all areas of optics. In recent decades, various technologies have enabled the precise control of light’s polarization state, even on a subwavelength scale, at optical frequencies. In this review, we provide a thorough, high-level review of the fundamentals of polarization optics and detail how the Jones calculus, alongside Fourier optics, can be used to analyze, classify, and compare these optical elements. We provide a review of work in this area across multiple technologies and research areas, including recent developments in optical metasurfaces. This review unifies a large body of work on spatially varying polarization optics and may be of interest to both researchers in optics and designers of optical systems more generally.
Vernier effect assisted sucrose sensor based on a cascaded Sagnac interferometer with no-core fiber
Authors: Zhao Yuanfang , Aruna Gandhi Manthangal Sivanesan , Li Qian , Liu Zhengyong , Fu H. Y.
Published: November 2021

We propose a sucrose concentration sensor by utilizing a fiber Sagnac interferometer with no-core fiber (SI-NCF) based on the Vernier effect. The Vernier effect is realized by introducing a single Sagnac interferometer (SI) with a similar free spectral range of SI-NCF. When the NCF is exposed to the external sucrose solution, the cladding state of NCF is changed, which induces the wavelength shift of the SI-NCF. The measured sucrose concentration sensitivity of a single SI-NCF is 2.97 nm/M, and the sensitivity can be improved to -13.84 nm/M with the assistance of the Vernier effect, which is 4.66 times of the single SI-NCF. The sensor has the advantages of high sensitivity, easy-fabrication and cost-effectiveness which can be applied in the field of the food industry, chemistry and agriculture.
The Art of 6G (TAO 6G): how to wire Society 5.0 [Invited]
Authors: Maier Martin , Ebrahimzadeh Amin , Beniiche Abdeljalil , Rostami Sajjad
Published: November 2021

The opening Optical Fiber Communication Conference and Exhibition 2021 plenary talk on how technologies and applications drive the evolution of networking concluded by presenting the equation Networking = Art + Science + Engineering. Due to their growing complexity, modern networks may be better viewed as techno-social systems that resemble biological superorganisms. In this paper, we expand on the aforementioned equation in the context of future 6G mobile networks, putting a focus on its first part, the Art of 6G (TAO 6G). To set the stage, we first elaborate on the 6G vision from an optical fiber fixed networks perspective, taking into account the respective viewpoints of the International Telecommunication Union-Telecommunication Standardization Sector and the FTTH Council Europe as well as the European Telecommunications Standards Institute’s recently launched fifth-generation fixed network initiative of bringing fiber to everywhere and everything, which is supposed to be the foundation of the new digital age and is a prerequisite for the digital transformation of the whole society. Towards this end, we present our ideas on what the digital society of the future will or potentially could look like. After briefly reviewing our work on tactile immersive use cases of so-called cyber-physical-social systems (CPSS), we inquire into the emerging human-centric Industry 5.0 and its mutually beneficial underlying principles of digitalization and, more interestingly, biologization. Specifically, we borrow ideas from biological superorganisms with brain-like cognitive capabilities found in natural societies for a stigmergy-enhanced Society 5.0, using tokenized digital twins for advancing collective intelligence in CPSS via indirect communication. Finally, we present our CPSS-based bottom-up token engineering framework designed for Society 5.0.
Gain-driven singular resonances in active core-shell and nano-shell plasmonic particles
Authors: Caicedo Karen , Cathey Andres , Infusino Melissa , Aradian Ashod , Veltri Alessandro
Published: November 2021

Within the frame of a simple, long-wavelength, quasi-static description, we present a theoretical characterization of the optical response of metal nanoparticles doped with active gain elements in a core-shell (metallic core within an active dielectric shell) and nano-shell (active dielectric core within a metallic shell) configurations. The common feature of these structures is that, adding gain to the system produces an increase of the quality of the plasmon resonance, which becomes sharper and sharper until a singular point, after which, the system switches from absorptive to emissive (nanolaser). We use this aforementioned simple model to develop a general method allowing us to calculate both the expected singular plasmon frequency and the gain level needed to realize it and to discuss the spectral deformation occurring before and after this singular point. Finally, we propose a way to calculate if the singular behavior is reachable using realistic amounts of gain.
Optical Coherence Refraction Tomography
Authors: Zhou Kevin C. , Farsiu Sina , Izatt Joseph A.
Published: November 2021

Combining principles of computed tomography with modern
machine-learning tools significantly improves OCT’s resolution while
extending imaging depth, reducing noise and reconstructing
refractive-index maps of biological samples.
Hyperspectral Lidar: A Progress Report
Authors: Kaasalainen Sanna , Malkamäki Tuomo
Published: November 2021

Laser-scanning instruments that allow hyperspectral and spatial
data to be collected in a single shot could improve remote sensing in a
wide range of applications.
Long range dynamic displacement: precision PGC with sub-nanometer resolution in an LWSM interferometer
Authors: Dong Yisi , Hu Peng-Cheng , Fu Haijin , Yang Hongxing , Yang Ruitao , Tan Jiubin
Published: November 2021

We propose a precision phase-generated-carrier (PGC) demodulation method with sub-nanometer resolution that avoids nonlinear errors in a laser wavelength sinusoidal modulation fiber-optic interferometer for long range dynamic displacement sensing. Using orthogonal detection and an AC-DC component extraction scheme, the PGC carrier phase delay (CPD) and laser intensity modulation phase delay can be obtained simultaneously to eliminate the nonlinear error from accompanied optical intensity modulation and CPD. Further, to realize long range displacement sensing, PGC phase modulation depth (PMD), determined by the laser wavelength modulation amplitude and the working distance of the interferometer, is required to maintain an optimal value during measurement, including initial position and dynamic movement. By combining frequency sweeping interference and modified PGC-arctan demodulation to measure real-time working distance, adaptive PMD technology is realized based on proportion control. We construct a fiber-optic Michelson and SIOS commercial interferometer for comparison and perform experiments to verify the feasibility of the proposed method. Experimental results demonstrate that an interferometer with sub-nanometer resolution and nanometer precision over a large range of 400 mm can be realized.
Digitales Lernen und Lehren: Führt Corona zu einer zeitgemäßen Bildung?
Authors: Grogorick Linda , Robra-Bissantz Susanne
Published: November 2021

Zum Schutz vor Corona musste das Lernen und Lehren an Hochschulen, Schulen sowie anderen Aus- und Weiterbildungseinrichtungen zeitweise nahezu vollständig ins Digitale überführt werden. Doch auch schon vor Corona hat kaum noch jemand ausschließlich analog, also ohne digitale Unterstützung, gelernt. Das (digitale) Lernen befindet sich bereits seit längerem im Wandel. Deswegen widmet sich dieser Beitrag einerseits der Thematik, wie sich das Lernen im Allgemeinen sowie mögliche Lernformate gewandelt haben und andererseits, wie Corona das Lernen an Schulen, Hochschulen sowie anderen Aus- und Weiterbildungseinrichtungen verändert hat.
Dissecting disease tolerance in Plasmodium vivax malaria using the systemic degree of inflammatory perturbation
Authors: Vinhaes Caian L. , Carmo Thomas A. , Queiroz Artur T. L. , Fukutani Kiyoshi F. , Araújo-Pereira Mariana , Arriaga María B. , Lacerda Marcus V. G. , Barral-Netto Manoel , Andrade Bruno B.
Published: November 2021

Homeostatic perturbation caused by infection fosters two major defense strategies, resistance and tolerance, which promote the host’s survival. Resistance relates to the ability of the host to restrict the pathogen load. Tolerance minimizes collateral tissue damage without directly affecting pathogen fitness. These concepts have been explored mechanistically in murine models of malaria but only superficially in human disease. Indeed, individuals infected withPlasmodium vivaxmay present with asymptomatic malaria, only mild symptoms, or be severely ill. We and others have reported a diverse repertoire of immunopathological events that potentially underly susceptibility to disease severity invivaxmalaria. Nevertheless, the combined epidemiologic, clinical, parasitological, and immunologic features associated with defining the disease outcomes are still not fully understood. In the present study, we perform an extensive outlining of cytokines and inflammatory proteins in plasma samples from a cohort of individuals from the Brazilian Amazon infected withP.vivaxand presenting with asymptomatic (n = 108) or symptomatic (n = 134) disease (106 with mild presentation and 28 with severe malaria), as well as from uninfected endemic controls (n = 128) to elucidate these gaps further. We employ highly multidimensional Systems Immunology analyses using the molecular degree of perturbation to reveal nuances of a unique profile of systemic inflammation and imbalanced immune activation directly linked to disease severity as well as with other clinical and epidemiologic characteristics. Additionally, our findings reveal that the main factor associated with severe cases ofP.vivaxinfection was the number of symptoms, despite of a lower global inflammatory perturbation and parasitemia. In these participants, the number of symptoms directly correlated with perturbation of markers of inflammation and tissue damage. On the other hand, the main factor associated with non-severe infections was the parasitemia values, that correlated only with perturbation of inflammatory markers, such as IL-4 and IL-1β, with a relatively lower number of symptoms. These observations suggest that some persons present severe vivax regardless of pathogen burden and global inflammatory perturbation. Such patients are thus little tolerant toP.vivaxinfection and show higher susceptibility to disrupt homeostasis and consequently exhibit more clinical manifestations. Other persons are capable to tolerate higher parasitemia with lower inflammatory perturbation and fewer symptoms, developing non-severe malaria. The analytical approach presented here has capability to define in more details the determinants of disease tolerance in vivax malaria.
A process-based assessment of landscape change and salmon habitat losses in the Chehalis River basin, USA
Authors: Beechie Timothy J. , Fogel Caleb , Nicol Colin , Timpane-Padgham Britta
Published: November 2021

Identifying necessary stream and watershed restoration actions requires quantifying natural potential habitat conditions to diagnose habitat change and evaluate restoration potential. We used three general methods of quantifying natural potential: historical maps and survey notes, contemporary reference sites, and models. Historical information was available only for the floodplain habitat analysis. We used contemporary reference sites to estimate natural potential habitat conditions for wood abundance, riparian shade, main channel length, and side channel length. For fine sediment, temperature, and beaver ponds we relied on models. We estimated a 90% loss of potential beaver pond area, 91% loss of side-channel length, and 92% loss or degradation of floodplain marshes and ponds. Spawning habitat area change due to wood loss ranged from -23% to -68% across subbasins. Other changes in habitat quantity or quality were smaller—either in magnitude or spatial extent—including rearing habitat areas, stream temperature, and accessible stream length. Historical floodplain habitat mapping provided the highest spatial resolution and certainty in locations and amounts of floodplain habitat lost or degraded, whereas use of the contemporary reference information provided less site specificity for wood abundance and side-channel length change. The models for fine sediment levels and beaver pond areas have the lowest reach-specific certainty, whereas the model of temperature change has higher certainty because it is based on a detailed riparian inventory. Despite uncertainties at the reach level, confidence in subbasin-level estimates of habitat change is moderate to high because accuracy increases as data are aggregated over multiple reaches. Our results show that the largest habitat losses were floodplain and beaver pond habitats, but use of these habitat change results in salmon life-cycle models can illustrate how the potential benefits of alternative habitat restoration actions varies among species with differing habitat preferences.
Direct detection of polioviruses using a recombinant poliovirus receptor
Authors: Gerloff Nancy , Mandelbaum Mark , Pang Hong , Collins Nikail , Brown Brittani , Sun Hong , Harrington Chelsea , Hecker Jessica , Agha Chadi , Burns Cara C. , Vega Everardo
Published: November 2021

Polioviruses are positive-sense, single-stranded RNA picornaviruses and the principal cause of poliomyelitis. Global poliovirus surveillance has relied on poliovirus isolation in cells, which may take a minimum of 10 days, involves maintaining two cell lines, and propagates virus in high titers. With eradication underway, a major objective of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) is to develop culture-independent detection of polioviruses as an alternative method to complement the current virus isolation technique. A culture-independent method on poliovirus-positive stool suspensions was assessed with commercially available recombinant soluble poliovirus receptor (PVR) coupled to Histidine (His) tags. Viral RNA was screened by quantitative real-time reverse transcription PCR using the poliovirus intratypic differentiation kit. Poliovirus recovery was optimized with PVR-His–tagged protein and buffers supplemented with polyethylene glycol. To validate the poliovirus-PVR–His tag purification assay, 182 poliovirus-positive stools of programmatic importance were parallel tested against the GPLN-accepted virus isolation method. The PVR-His tag enrichment method detected poliovirus in 164 of 171 poliovirus-positive stools, whereas the virus isolation method misidentified 38 stools as poliovirus-negative (McNemar χ2 p<0.0001). Using this method in combination with RNA extraction, viral RNA recovery increased and showed similar (WPV1) or higher (Sabin 1) sensitivity than the World Health Organization accredited variation of the virus isolation method. The PVR-His enrichment method could be a viable addition to poliovirus surveillance; similar methods have the potential to capture other human pathogens such as EV71 using an appropriate soluble His tag receptor.
Clinical value of serum biomarkers, squamous cell carcinoma antigen and apolipoprotein C-II in follow-up of patients with locally advanced cervical squamous cell carcinoma treated with radiation: A multicenter prospective cohort study
Authors: Harima Yoko , Ariga Takuro , Kaneyasu Yuko , Ikushima Hitoshi , Tokumaru Sunao , Shimamoto Shigetoshi , Takahashi Takeo , Ii Noriko , Tsujino Kayoko , Saito Anneyuko I. , Ushijima Hiroki , Toita Takafumi , Ohno Tatsuya
Published: November 2021

There are currently no reliable, established serum biomarkers to predict the prognosis of radiotherapy for advanced cervical cancer. We aimed to identify serum biomarkers for survival after radiotherapy for cervical cancer. In this multicenter prospective cohort study, the usefulness of pre- and posttreatment serum protein levels of potential biomarkers, including squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCC-Ag), apolipoprotein C-II (ApoC-II), matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)1, and MMP2, were evaluated together with clinical factors in 145 cervical cancer patients in order to determine their suitability to predict survival. Progression-free survival (PFS) was the primary endpoint, and overall survival (OS), pelvic PFS (PPFS), and distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS) were the secondary endpoints. Blood samples were collected before and 1 month after radiotherapy to measure serum biomarker levels. ApoC-II was measured using a monoclonal antibody-based enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, which was developed for this purpose. Kaplan-Meier method, log-rank test, and univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards models were used for statistical analyses. In multivariate analysis, larger tumor size was independently associated with shorter PFS, OS, PPFS, and DMFS, while longer overall treatment time was independently associated with shorter PPFS. Higher pretreatment SCC-Ag (P < 0.001) was associated with shorter DMFS. Higher posttreatment SCC-Ag (P = 0.017) was also associated with shorter DMFS. Pretreatment ApoC-II was associated with PPFS in univariate analysis (P = 0.048), but not in multivariate analysis. Patients with pretreatment ApoC-II levels ≤ 25.8 μg/ml had shorter PPFS than those with pretreatment ApoC-II levels > 25.8 μg/ml (P = 0.023, log-rank test). Pre- and posttreatment serum SCC-Ag and pretreatment serum ApoC-II levels may be important biomarkers to predict survival outcomes of patients with cervical cancer after radiotherapy. Pre- and posttreatment SCC-Ag and pretreatment ApoC-II might be useful in clinical settings for screening patients to improve treatment strategies in cervical cancer.
Biochemical response of Sonneratia alba Sm. branches infested by a wood boring moth (Gazi Bay, Kenya)
Authors: Jenoh Elisha Mrabu , Traoré Mohamed , Kosore Charles , Koedam Nico
Published: November 2021

Infestation by a moth woodborer species is causing mortality of Sonneratia alba Sm. mangrove by tunneling through the inner bark, cambium and conductive tissue. Infestation leads to death of some infested branches, whereas in other cases infested branches have been observed to recover from infestation. We have used Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) to investigate the differences in macromolecule (polysaccharide and lignin) content present in branches that died (D) of the infestation, those that recovered (R) from the infestation and control branches (C) that were not subject to any infestation. Wood samples were taken from four sampling plots (A, B, C and D) in Gazi Bay (Kenya). From each of the four plots, 15 S. alba branches were taken from five trees, from which 1 cm thick discs were cut from each of these branches to be used as samples. To identify the most characteristic FTIR bands for the three groups of samples, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was applied on the transposed data matrix. Furthermore, canonical discriminant analysis was applied on the data considering the main FTIR band that would be identified through the PCA factors. Finally, One-way ANOVA and post hoc test were used to verify the significance of the observed trends. Branches that recovered from infestation had higher relative abundance of lignified cells. We conclude that insect-infested S. alba undergo changes related to the lignocellulosic contents. The infestation induces a decrease of the proportion of the polysaccharide content and an increase of the proportion of the lignin contents.
In silico repurposing of a Novobiocin derivative for activity against latency associated Mycobacterium tuberculosis drug target nicotinate-nucleotide adenylyl transferase (Rv2421c)
Authors: Cloete Ruben , Shahbaaz Mohd , Grobbelaar Melanie , Sampson Samantha L. , Christoffels Alan
Published: November 2021

Nicotinamide-nucleotide adenylyl transferase (Rv2421c) was selected as a potential drug target, because it has been shown,in vitro, to be essential forMycobacterium tuberculosisgrowth. It is conserved between mycobacterium species, is up-regulated during dormancy, has a known 3D crystal structure and has no known human homologs. A model of Rv2421c in complex with nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide and magnesium ion was constructed and subject tovirtual ligand screening against the Prestwick Chemical Library and the ZINC database, which yielded 155 potential hit molecules. Of the 155 compounds identified five were pursued further using an IC50 based 3D-QSAR study. The 3D-QSAR model validated the inhibition properties of the five compounds based on R2value of 0.895 and Q2value of 0.944 compared to known inhibitors of Rv2421c. Higher binding affinities was observed for the novel ZINC13544129 and two FDA approved compounds (Novobiocin sodium salt, Sulfasalazine). Similarly, the total interaction energy was found to be the highest for Cromolyn disodium system (-418.88 kJ/mol) followed by Novobiocin (-379.19 kJ/mol) and Sulfasalazine with (-330.13 kJ/mol) compared to substrate DND having (-185.52 kJ/mol). Subsequentin vitrotesting of the five compounds identified Novobiocin sodium salt with activity againstMycobacterium tuberculosisat 50 μM, 25μM and weakly at 10μM concentrations. Novobiocin salt interacts with a MG ion and active site residues His20, Thr86, Gly107 and Leu164 similar to substrate DND ofMycobacterium tuberculosisRv2421c. Additionalin silicostructural analysis of known Novobiocin sodium salt derivatives against Rv2421c suggest Coumermycin as a promising alternative for the treatment ofMycobacterium tuberculosisbased on large number of hydrogen bond interactions with Rv2421c similar in comparison to Novobiocin salt and substrate DND.
Hajsza közben : egy magyar felsőoktatási intézmény piacorientációjának kultúraalapú elemzési kísérlete
Authors: Chandler Nick , Heidrich Balázs
Published: November 2021

A tanulmány célja egy felsőoktatási intézmény példáján keresztül azonosítani és megvizsgálni a szubkultúrákat, illetve azok hatását a piacorientált működésre. A szerzők a szubkultúrák azonosítását követően bemutatják a szubkultúrák természetét, különös tekintettel a homogenitással és heterogenitással való viszonyukra. Tanulmányuk a piacorientációt a tisztán stratégiai szempont helyett a piacorientációt a szervezeti kultúra kontextusában vizsgálja (pl. az összes alkalmazott szintjén). A kérdés azonban, amire ez a tanulmány is keresi a választ, továbbra is fennáll: a felsőoktatási intézmény lassan változó szervezeti kultúrája és szubkultúrái mennyire támogatják az olyannyira szükséges piacorientáltságot?
Improving Remote Sensing Multiple Classification by Data and Ensemble Selection
Authors: Boukir S. , Guo L. , Chehata N.
Published: November 2021

In this article, margin theory is exploited to design better ensemble classifiers for remote sensing data. A semi-supervised version of the ensemble margin is at the core of this work. Some major challenges in ensemble learning are investigated using this paradigm in the difficult context
of land cover classification: selecting the most informative instances to form an appropriate training set, and selecting the best ensemble members. The main contribution of this work lies in the explicit use of the ensemble margin as a decision method to select training data and base classifiers
in an ensemble learning framework. The selection of training data is achieved through an innovative iterative guided bagging algorithm exploiting low-margin instances. The overall classification accuracy is improved by up to 3%, with more dramatic improvement in per-class accuracy (up to 12%).
The selection of ensemble base classifiers is achieved by an ordering-based ensemble-selection algorithm relying on an original margin-based criterion that also targets low-margin instances. This method reduces the complexity (ensemble size under 30) but maintains performance.
Persistent Scatterer Interferometry for Pettimudi (India) Landslide Monitoring using Sentinel-1A Images
Authors: Shankar Hari , Roy Arijit , Chauhan Prakash
Published: November 2021

The continuous monitoring of land surface movement over time is of paramount importance for assessing landslide triggering factors and mitigating landslide hazards. This research focuses on measuring horizontal and vertical surface displacement due to a devastating landslide event in
the west-facing slope of the Rajamala Hills, induced by intense rainfall. The landslide occurred in Pettimudi, a tea-plantation village of the Idukki district in Kerala, India, on August 6–7, 2020. The persistent-scatterer synthetic aperture radar interferometry (PSInSAR ) technique,
along with the Stanford Method for Persistent Scatterers (StaMPS), was applied to investigate the land surface movement over time. A stack of 20 Sentinel-1A single-look complex images (19 interferograms) acquired in descending passes was used for PSInSAR processing. The line-of-sight (LOS
) displacement in long time series, and hence the average LOS velocity, was measured at each measurement-point location. The mean LOS velocity was decomposed into horizontal east–west (EW ) and vertical up–down velocity components. The results show that the mean LOS, EW, and up–down
velocities in the study area, respectively, range from –18.76 to +11.88, –10.95 to +6.93, and –15.05 to +9.53 mm/y, and the LOS displacement ranges from –19.60 to +19.59 mm. The displacement values clearly indicate the instability of the terrain. The time-series LOS
displacement trends derived from the applied PSInSAR technique are very useful for providing valuable inputs for disaster management and the development of disaster early-warning systems for the benefit of local residents.
¿Qué hacer para tener buenos precios de la luz?
Authors: Linares Pedro
Published: November 2021

La fuerte subida de los precios de la electricidad experimentada en los últimos meses en Europa, y en particular en España, ha generado, además de malestar social, una acalorada discusión sobre las medidas políticas necesarias para atajarla. En este artículo evalúo las principales propuestas, y propongo una serie de principios generales para tratar de que el precio de la electricidad sea justo y eficiente, analizando cada uno de sus componentes.
«Hacednos un hueco en vuestro corazón»: una respuesta creyente al estigma y a los problemas de salud mental
Authors: López-Cortacans German
Published: November 2021

Los problemas de salud mental se han incrementado con la pandemia del COVID-19 y este sufrimiento emocional se vive, en la mayoría de las ocasiones, en soledad. Ello es debido al miedo de ser estigmatizados como diferentes del resto de la sociedad, agravando, aún más, los sentimientos de vulnerabilidad y fragilidad emocional. Desde la Buena Noticia anunciada por Jesús, se nos interpela a mirar la realidad de sufrimiento emocional más allá de los estereotipos y prejuicios sociales, eliminando, de este modo, el estigma que se interpone entre las personas.
Re-imagining Technology Education for Student Teachers Using Human-Centered Design
Authors: Phan Trang , Shin Myunghwan
Published: November 2021

This design case describes the implementation of the Human-centered Design process, developed by the world leading design firm IDEO and Stanford d. school. The process describes the technology integration onto a teaching credential program course at a university in Central California. It reports the thought process to adopting HCD in the course with a focus on a semester-long assignment called Technology Leap Project (TLP). The preliminary design decisions and the design process in depth. Each phase of the HCD process (i.e. Inspiration, Ideation, Implementation) was defined and its manifestation into the TLP was articulated and assembled with samples of students’ work. The case also discusses various merits and challenges for the design team of applying the HCD process in engaging student learning and responding to their learning needs. Finally, the revision plan was discussed.
Teaching and Learning During the Pandemic: Challenges ‎and Merits of International Co-Designing and Instruction ‎
Authors: Phan Trang , Paul Mary
Published: November 2021

This design case describes the design process and decisions of facilitating a week-long course on virtual teaching strategies taught by three facilitators, one in Vietnam and two in the United States at the onset of the COVD-19 pandemic. Participants were K-12 and college educators in Vietnam. The goal of the course was to introduce the Vietnamese educators to educational technology and pedagogical strategies for teaching virtually. The case also reports the facilitators’ self-reflection and biases prevalent within a Western curriculum culture as they attempted to deliver the content knowledge and connect with the Vietnamese learners. Finally, their insights into designing and implementing a cross-cultural, multilingual international online course within a rapid transition context are also shared. The intercultural online teaching experience provided a broader understanding of how students learn and what is valued.
Mapeo científico en la búsqueda de información. Caso de estudio: enfermedades infecciosas en bovinos
Authors: Ballesteros-Ricaurte Javier-Antonio , Avendaño-Fernández Eduardo , González-Amarillo Angela-María , Granados-Comba Adriana
Published: November 2021

Se plantean los pasos a seguir para realizar un mapeo científico sobre un tema de investigación utilizando herramientas que permitan identificar diferentes relaciones y análisis entre artículos, tomando como caso de estudio el tema de enfermedades infecciosas bovinas. La metodología utilizada se basa en seis pasos que van desde la recuperación de información por medio de la revisión sistemática de literatura hasta la visualización de los resultados por medio de la herramienta de análisis de mapas científicos SciMAT, empleando principalmente las palabras clave, el índice H y la ocurrencia de los términos en el texto. Se encuentra como resultado que los estudios sobre enfermedades infecciosas bovinas se han centrado en subtemas como brotes de la enfermedad, tratamientos utilizados, modelos de prevención y análisis de muestras de laboratorio. Por otro lado, se denota que hace falta realizar estudios sobre el uso de herramientas informáticas o el desarrollo de aplicaciones que utilicen técnicas modernas como inteligencia artificial y machine learning como apoyo al análisis, el control y la erradicación de enfermedades infecciosas bovinas.
Online Handwritten Telugu Character Recognition Using Normalized Differential Chain Code Feature
Authors: Inuganti Srilakshmi
Published: November 2021

In Character Recognition, the Feature extraction has encompassed a well-known role. Here, Feature Extraction centered on Chain code (CC) is implemented. CC encodes every stroke with a string of numbers, in which every number signifies a specific direction wherein the subsequent point on the stroke is present. CC centered feature safeguard information and permits reasonable data to decrease. Disparate CC can signify the same shape since the CC is reliant on starting point. So here, Starting Point and rotation invariant feature extraction technique using Normalized Differential Chain Code (NDCC) is proposed. A two-stage classifier is employed for classification. Here, the NDCC feature is utilized in the pre-classifier and pre-processed (x,y) coordinates are used in the post classifier. In both stages K-NN classifier is used. This feature is verified in HP-Lab data that is present in the UNIPEN format. Investigational outcomes proved that the proposed feature enhances recognition accuracy over the selected dataset.
Does Social Media Moderates Factors that Influence Perceived Value and Personal Value on Purchase Intention of Modest Apparel?
Authors: Shaari Aida
Published: November 2021

Muslim women are huge target market that fashion industry just cannot afford to ignore. As fashion evolves, the industry had witnessed an evolution in the way of how Muslim women dressed. Donning modern apparel but at the same time still adhering to the strict requirement of covering ones ‘aurat’ had created modest apparel segment that could not to be ignored by fashion industry players due to the increasing demand from that growing niche market. The purpose of this study is to find out the factors that influence Muslim women to purchase modest apparel and whether social media has any influence towards their purchase decision. Fashion Innovativeness and Opinion Leadership are elements that represent the consumer Perceived Value while Fashion Consciousness and Fashion Motivation are elements representing the consumer’s Personal Value are the factors that this study is looking at. The finding from this study will benefit marketers and industry players to understand more about this newly emerging segment and how to attract them. This study was carried out via convenience sampling of Muslim women in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia as Malaysia has more than 60 percent Muslim population. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 22 and Smart PLS 3. Fashion innovativeness was found not to have significant effect towards modest apparel purchase intention and social media does not moderate these factors to influence Malaysian Muslim women purchase attention at the moment.