bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of Mixed Virus Infection on Trichosanthes cucumerina L. in Akamkpa, Southern Cross River State, Nigeria
Authors: Eyong O. I. , Ekpiken E. E. , Akam D. E. , Owolabi A. T.
Published: May 2021

Trichosanthes cucumerina L is a tropical or subtropical fruit bearing crop of the Cucurbitaceae family.  Field survey during 2020 planting season in Akamkpa, Southern Cross River State, Nigeria revealed widespread virus infection of the crop. Symptoms observed included severe leaf malformation/reduction and rugosity. This research was therefore aimed at identifying viruses infecting Trichosanthes cucumerina in this location. Infected leaf samples were collected and virus maintained on young seedlings of T. cucumerina in the Botanical Garden of University of Calabar, Nigeria. Diagnostic tools included ACP-ELISA and gene sequence analysis.  The ELISA result revealed two viruses belonging to the genus Cucumovirus and Potyvirus. The identity of the viruses were determined after virus sequences were compared with other viruses available in the GenBank of National Centre for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) using the basic local alignment search tool (BLASTn). The result revealed the Cucumovirus to be Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) while the Potyvirus was revealed to be Potato virus Y (PVY). This is the first report of mixed virus infection on Trichosanthes cucumerina in Nigeria.
Effect of Different Spacing on the Growth and Yield of California Wonder Bell Pepper (Capsicum annuum) on Sandy Loam Soil in the Gambia
Authors: Jadama Landing , Jammeh Pa Tamba , Cham Alhagie K. , Diedhiou Idrissa
Published: May 2021

Optimum plant spacing ensures proper growth and development of crops resulting in maximum crop yield and economic use of land. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of different planting spacing on the growth and yield of California Wonder Bell Pepper (Capsicum annuum) on sandy loam soil of The Gambia, from January to May 2018. The design used for this experiment was a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four treatments (T1: 50 x 50 cm, T2: 50 x 40 cm, T3: 50 x 30 cm and T4: 50 x 20 cm) and three repetitions and the parameter of plant height, stem girth, number of leaves, fruit length, fruit circumference, individual fruit weight, yield per plant, and yield per hectare. The plant spacing had a significant effect on plant height, stem girth and the number of leaves of the growth parameters, whereas for the yield parameters, individual fruit weight, yield per plant and total biomass yield were found significantly in treatments with the highest plant spacing (50 x 50 cm). In conclusion, wider plant spacing (50 x 50 cm) boosts the plants to develop the maximum number of branches and fruits.
Modeling Infant Mortality Risk Factors using Logistic Regression Model and Spatial Analysis in Kenya
Authors: Kirui Erick Cheruiyot , Luchemo Elphas , Anapapa Ayubu
Published: May 2021

Globally, infant mortality is used as an important indicator for healthcare status hence an important tool for evaluation and planning of public health strategies. Despite of numerous interventions by governments aimed at reducing infant mortality, high rates are still reported in Kenya. A lot of resources are channeled towards its control leading to low productivity hence impacting the household economic welfare and national GD. The specific objective was to establish risk factors and the spatial variation of infant mortality in Kenya by analyzing the 2014 Kenya Demographic Health Survey data. A fully Bayesian paradigm and logistic regression model were used to determine infant mortality risk factors and spatial variation in Kenya. Demographic, socioeconomic and environmental factors were found to have significant effect on infant mortality. Counties from the northern parts of Kenya, Rift Valley, Central, Eastern, Nyanza, Coastal and Western parts of Kenya showed a high level of infant deaths. Infant mortality is high in arid and semi-arid areas and coastal areas due to high prevalence of infectious diseases and inadequate water supply, health facilities and low education levels. Infant mortality varies significantly across regions in Kenya due to cultural activities, and weather patterns hence exists spatial autocorrelation among neighboring regions.
A Comparative Analysis and Predicting for Breast Cancer Detection Based on Data Mining Models
Authors: Khorshid Shler Farhad , Abdulazeez Adnan Mohsin , Sallow Amira Bibo
Published: May 2021

Breast cancer is one of the most common diseases among women, accounting for many deaths each year. Even though cancer can be treated and cured in its early stages, many patients are diagnosed at a late stage. Data mining is the method of finding or extracting information from massive databases or datasets, and it is a field of computer science with a lot of potentials. It covers a wide range of areas, one of which is classification. Classification may also be accomplished using a variety of methods or algorithms. With the aid of MATLAB, five classification algorithms were compared. This paper presents a performance comparison among the classifiers: Support Vector Machine (SVM), Logistics Regression (LR), K-Nearest Neighbors (K-NN), Weighted K-Nearest Neighbors (Weighted K-NN), and Gaussian Naïve Bayes (Gaussian NB). The data set was taken from UCI Machine learning Repository. The main objective of this study is to classify breast cancer women using the application of machine learning algorithms based on their accuracy. The results have revealed that Weighted K-NN (96.7%) has the highest accuracy among all the classifiers.
Evaluating the Levels and Human Health Risks of Heavy Metals in Soils around Onne Landfill, Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Audu P. , Wuana R. A.
Published: May 2021

This study evaluated selected heavy metals’ levels in soil around the landfill in Onne Rivers State, Nigeria. It also examines potential human health risks due to exposure to the contaminated soil. Composite samples of soils from the northern, southern, eastern and western domains of the landfill were collected, processed, and analysed for heavy metals using atomic absorption spectrophotometry, and their human health risks were evaluated. The heavy metals’ levels in the soils around the four domains were in the order Pb>Cr>Ni>Cd>As. Children and adult ingestion, inhalation and dermal hazards quotients for the selected metals in the four domains were below unity ranging from {(HQchildren 2.71 x 10-10 As inhalation in the eastern domain to 9.24 x 10-1 Pb ingestion in the northern domain); HQadult 1.55 x 10-10 As inhalation in the eastern domain to 9.90 x 10-2 Pb ingestion in the northern domain)}. Adult ingestion, inhalation and dermal cancer risks (CRadult) were within acceptable limits, ranging from 1.99 x 10-13 As inhalation in the eastern domain to 4.68 x10-5 Cr ingestion in the northern domain. However, ingestion cancer risk for children (CRchildren) due to exposure to Ni and Cr in the four domains were above tolerable limit ranging from {(Ni - 2.00 x 10-4 in the southern domain to 3.11 x 10-4 in the northern domain); Cr – 2.95 x 10-4 in the southern domain to 4.37 x 10-4 in the northern domain)}. Children and adult hazards index due to exposure to the selected metals were also less than 1.0, ranging from children exposure to Ni (5.91 x 10-3) in the southern domain and Pb (9.25 x 10-1) in the northern domain to adult exposure to Ni (6.50 x 10-4 in the southern domain and Pb (9.94 x 10-2) in the northern domain. Total cancer risks (TCRadult) due to adult exposure to the metals were within tolerable limit, ranging from Cd (4.93 x 10-7) in the southern domain to Cr (5.01 x 10-5) in the northern domain. And total cancer risk (TCRchildren) due to children exposure to Ni and Cr were above tolerable limit, ranging from {Ni (2.40 x 10-4 in the southern domain to 3.74 x 10-4 in the northern domain); Cr (3.54 x 10-4 in the southern domain to 5.24 x 10-4 in the northern domain)}. The values for both non carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks were higher for children than those for adult. Reasons for this attributes and improvement actions were suggested.
Prevalence and Antibiotic Susceptibility Pattern of Salmonella Species
Authors: Alhassan A. R. , Saba C. K. S. , Kpordze S. W.
Published: May 2021

Aim: This research was carried out to determine the prevalence of Salmonella species from smoked fish sold in the three major markets in Tamale Metropolis and examined the isolates resistance patterns to various antibiotics. 

Study Design: The study was in two parts which include administering questionnaires and collecting samples. The second part was the laboratory analysis to detect Salmonella species from the collected samples.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out in the Spanish laboratory (microbiology section) of the Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Biosciences, of the University for Development Studies.

Methodology: A total of one hundred samples were examined. The samples were enriched on buffered peptone water and inoculated on Modified Semi-Solid Rappaport Vassiliadis. Xylose Lysine Deoxycholate was used to identify the bacteria, and Simons Citrate agar was used for the biochemical test. The antibiotic test was done by using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion                           test.

Results: After the laboratory analysis, 67 (67%) out of the 100 samples were confirmed to be positive for Salmonella species of which Cut fish (11.9%), Redfish (11.9%), Mudfish (11.9%), and Chale fish (11.9%) recorded the highest contamination, and among the three markets, Central market had the highest fish contamination. The resistance patterns of the isolates to the various antibiotics used were; Ciprofloxacin (2.98%), Ceftriaxone (34.32%), Ampicillin (83.58%), Doxycycline (88.05%), Amoxicillin/Clavulanic acid (91.04%), and Oxytetracycline (92.53%).

Conclusion: This study revealed that smoked fish sold in the Tamale Metropolis contained Salmonella positive that can cause food poisoning and other gastrointestinal problems.
Toxicity of Azadirachta indica Hydroethanolic Leaf Extract in Adult Drosophila melanogaster (Harwich Strain)
Authors: Tochukwu Okoye Clifford , Alexander Etuh Monday , Salu Jacob Mekidani
Published: May 2021

Aim: This study is aimed at evaluating the toxic effect of A. indica hydroethanolic leaf extracts in D. melanogaster (fruit flies) by carrying out a survival study, locomotor, fecundity and biochemical assays.

Place of study: This study was carried out in the Drosophila laboratory of Africa Centre of Excellence in Phytomedicine Research and Development (ACEPRD), University of Jos.

Methods: Extraction of A. indica extract was carried using hydroethanolic solvent (70:30 v/v ethanol: water). Flies were treated with 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg, 250 mg, 500 mg and 5000 mg A. indica hydroethanolic leaf extracts per 10 g fly food for 7 days, to determine the lethal concentration (LC50). The survival assay was carried out for 28 days by treating flies with 5 mg, 10 mg, and 25 mg/10 g fly food of the extract. Young flies were treated with several concentrations of the extract for 7 days, to determine the effect of the extract on the fecundity and locomotion. Thereafter, flies exposed to the extracts for 7 days were immobilized, weighed, homogenized, and centrifuged. The supernatant was used to assay for acetylcholinesterase and catalase activities. The experiment was replicated 3 times and data was presented as mean ± SEM with statistical value at “P < 0.05” considered significant.

Results: The percentage yield was calculated to be 12.7 % and the phytochemicals present in A. indica hydroethanolic leaf extract included alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, steroids, phenols, and glycosides. The LC50 was determined to be 1499 mg/10 g diet and the result showed a dose-dependent significant decrease (P < 0.05) in the survival of the flies, when compared to the control group. Further results showed a non-significant decrease (P > 0.05) in the fecundity, as well as the locomotor, acetylcholinesterase, and catalase activities of the flies, compared to the control.

Conclusion: This study concludes that A. indica hydroethanolic leaf extract, at certain concentrations, may not be safe for consumption as it showed some level of toxicity in D. melanogaster.
Sexual Behaviour, Needs and Concerns Regarding Sexual and Reproductive Health among Adults Living with HIV in Sub-Saharan Africa- A Systematic Review
Authors: Ofurum Ifeoma Chinyere
Published: May 2021

Background:  The sexual and reproductive health of people living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa should be of paramount importance and, therefore, given the attention it deserves. The advent of antiretroviral therapy (ART) and subsequent access to it has aided millions of infected people to live a normal life. However, being on ART is not enough as most of these people despite being on the therapy are faced with needs and concerns that have shaped their sexual behaviour.

This review aims to bring to perspective the sexual behaviour, needs, and concerns regarding the sexual and reproductive health of adults living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) with a view to reducing the disease's ultimate burden in the region.

Method: An extensive search of articles was carried out using the reporting systematic review and meta-analysis (PRISMA). The database search was from JSTORE, Scopus, Google Scholar, Medline, Cochrane, Semantic scholar, and Pubmed.

Results: A total of 3,984 results were obtained from the search. The application of the inclusion and exclusion criteria finally gave ten studies which were reviewed. The review revealed, among other things, that a good number of adults living with HIV have multiple sex partners, and some still have sex without condoms. Besides, most of them indicated the need for their own biological children, especially after being on ART for a while. Some women living with HIV in SSA do not have a right to decide on their sexual and reproductive health.

Recommendation: It was recommended that there be intense re-orientation and health education for this group of people. Women need to be empowered and taught their rights.
Metastatic Cholangiocarcinoma in the Absence of Jaundice Presenting with Neck Swelling in District Hospital
Authors: Rahman Mohd Shafiq , Salleh Norly
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Cholangiocarcinoma is a malignancy arising from biliary epithelium with incidence rate of less than 2 in 100000. It is the second most common primary liver malignancy. Cholangiocarcinoma usually presents with jaundice with or without abdominal pain. In advanced cholangiocarcinoma, it is extremely rare for cervical swelling to be the initial complaint and presentation.

Case Presentation: A 69-year-old male with underlying diabetes mellitus presented to surgical clinic with painful neck cervical swelling for 1 month with no other associated symptoms. Blood investigations were within normal range. Contrast enhanced computer tomography showed multiple enlarged lymph nodes over the axilla, mediastinal and supraclavicular with small hypodense lesion identified at Segment IV of the liver. Excision biopsy of left supraclavicular was performed which revealed metastatic adenocarcinoma. Immunohistochemistry study with an elevated Ca 19.9 tumour marker confirmed the diagnosis of metastatic cholangiocarcinoma.

Conclusion: Metastatic cholangiocarcinoma presenting with neck swelling in the absence of jaundice is a rare occurrence and confer diagnostic challenge especially in district hospital. Availability of immunohistochemical study is of paramount important in establishing the diagnosis.
Incidence of Pink Bollworm Pectinophora gossypiella (Saunders) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) on Flowers (Rosette) of Bt Cotton in Andhra Pradesh, India
Authors: Raju A. Appala , Rao G. M. V. Prasada , Naik V. Chinna Babu , Chiranjeevi C. H. , Patibanda A. K. , Rao V. Srinivasa
Published: May 2021

The pink bollworm Pectinophora gossypiella (Saunders) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) has recently emerged as a serious menace on Bt cotton in India. Extensive roving surveys were conducted in 12 locations of three major cotton growing districts of Andhra Pradesh, India, to assess the level of pink bollworm infestation in Bt cotton during 2018-19 and 2019-20. The dynamics and severity of flower damage due to pink bollworm during the 60-135 days’ crop period were evaluated based on a random sampling of flowers. Survey results revealed a widespread infestation of pink bollworm on Bt cotton flowers across the surveyed sites in a range of 11.8-19.50%. With the advancement of the crop season, a progressive increase in the flower damage was observed till 120 DAS then declined. Reasons for the enhanced flower damage and implications are discussed in this article.
Prevalence of the use of Hearing Aid Compared to the use of Seeing Aid among Nigerian Youths
Authors: Aguwa U. S. , Onu F. O. , Ovie F. O. , Agulanna A. E. , Eze C. E.
Published: May 2021

Needed attention has not been paid to hearing defects and the use of hearing aids compared to the enormous attention given to visual problems. This study aimed to compare the prevalence of visual defect to hearing defect and by extension the frequency of use of medicated glasses compared to the use of hearing aid. A total of 500 questionnaires were distributed randomly among students of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nnewi campus. Four hundred and seventy eight was retrieved, out of which 11 were disqualified due to improper filling, leaving us with a total of 467 properly filled questionnaires (representing 93.4% of the total number). Results were computed in simple percentages. Our results show that only 1.5% of the study population reported positive for hearing defect. Out of this number, only one respondent uses a hearing aid (representing 0.21% of the population). This is unlike seeing defect in which 117 (25.05% of total population) reported positive and 41.81% of them attested to the use of medicated glasses (representing 15.85% of the total population). All subjects who had hearing defects are aged between 15 and 25 (15-20 = 57.14%; 21-25 = 42.86%). This is similar to the case of seeing defects where the majority (70%) is aged 15-20 and 26% are aged 21-25, totally 96% of cases. We believe the enormity of persons subscribing to seeing aids are so because of massive awareness and affordability of medicated glasses, which in some cases is made available at no cost to the patient. The lack of data on persons with hearing defect in the country as well as the lack of publicity and investment in hearing aids has contributed greatly to the lack of interest and unwillingness on the part of patients to reach for hearing aids. Our results also show that females reported more both for hearing defects and seeing defect relative to their number. We therefore propose a better information system in which hearing aids are not only made available but also affordable and the masses are rigorously enlightened as to the health and social benefits.
Problems and Prospects of Tourism Industry in Bangladesh: A Study on Cumilla District
Authors: Islam S. M. Nazrul , Akter Sk. Rahima
Published: May 2021

Tourism is one of the most growing industries all around the world. Bangladesh is a new tourist destination on the map of the world. Bangladesh has enormous potential to develop tourism because of its attractive natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The tourism industry of Bangladesh has several positive impacts on the overall economy of this country.  Tourism can add value to the Bangladeshi economy if a proper marketing plan and strategy can be built and implemented for this purpose. The main objective of the study was to find out the major problems and prospects of the tourism industry in Bangladesh. The study area was Cumilla District. The study has tried to highlight the special attractive tourist spots of Bangladesh, especially in Cumilla. Tourists of Cumilla District were the population of the study.  For the study, a convenient sample of tourists from various tourist spots in the Cumilla District had taken. The study depended on both primary and secondary data; primary data were collected with a structured questionnaire and analyzed. From the analysis, it was found that the majority of the respondents are satisfied with cultural & religious heritage, transportation quality & cost efficiency. But they are dissatisfied with Information gaps, the absence of tour operators, poor service of hotel & poor security. Most of them suggest developing infrastructure such as accommodation, transportation, ensuring security, taking more promotional activities, reducing the cost of touring, etc. To enhance the existing image sincere steps of the concerned authorities can really be helpful; some guidelines have been mentioned in the recommendation part.
Risk for second bladder and rectal malignancies from cervical cancer irradiation
Authors: Mazonakis Michalis , Lyraraki Efrosyni , Tolia Maria , Damilakis John
Published: May 2021

The objective of this study was to estimate the risk of developing second malignancies to partially in‐field organs from volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) of cervical cancer and to compare the above risks with those from the conventional three‐dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3D‐CRT). Seventeen consecutive patients with uterine cervix carcinoma were selected. VMAT and 3D‐CRT plans were generated with 6 and 10 MV photons, respectively. The prescribed tumor dose was 45 Gy given in 25 fractions. Differential dose‐volume histogram data from the treatment plans were obtained for the partially in‐field organs such as bladder and rectum. These data were used to estimate the patient‐specific lifetime attributable risk (LAR) for bladder and rectal cancer induction with a non‐linear model based on a mixture of plateau and bell‐shaped dose–response relationships. The estimated risks per 10000 people were compared with the baseline risks for unexposed population. The patient‐specific rectal cancer risk estimates from VMAT were significantly lower than those from 3D‐CRT (P = 0.0144). The LARs for developing bladder malignancies from VMAT were significantly high compared to those from conventional irradiation (P = 0.0003). The mean difference between the patient‐specific LARs for radiation‐induced bladder and rectal malignancies as derived from 3D‐CRT and VMAT plans was 6.6% and 2.0%, respectively. The average LAR for developing bladder and rectal malignant diseases due to VMAT was 9.2 × 10‐4 and 43.7 × 10‐4, respectively. The corresponding risks following 3D‐CRT were 8.6 × 10‐4 and 44.6 × 10‐4. These average risks showed that pelvic irradiation increases the baseline probability for cancer induction by 12.6‐19.1%. The differences in the second cancer risks associated with the VMAT and 3D‐CRT for cervical cancer were found to be small. Both treatment techniques resulted in considerable increased probabilities for developing bladder and rectal malignancies relative to those of unirradiated population.
PEGylated copper(II)‐chelated polydopamine nanocomposites for photothermal‐enhanced chemodynamic therapy against tumor cells
Authors: Zhang Qiuye , Wang Jingjing , Xu Luen , Lu Shi‐Yu , Yang Huawei , Duan Yifan , Yang Qiang , Qiu Mengfan , Chen Chunmei , Zhao Sheng , Liu Xiaohong , Liu Hui
Published: May 2021

Photothermal‐enhanced chemodynamic therapy is a novel and promising strategy for effective tumor treatment. Herein, a kind of polydopamine (PDA)‐based nanoplatform is reported for photothermal‐enhanced chemodynamic therapy against tumor cells. PDA nanoparticles (NPs) were prepared through the self‐polymerization method, which were subsequently chelated with Cu2+ and linked with poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) chains, finally obtaining PDA‐Cu(II)‐PEG NPs. The fabricated PDA‐Cu(II)‐PEG NPs were uniform in shape with a narrow polydispersity. They can firstly react with glutathione (GSH) to generate Cu+, inducing GSH depletion meanwhile. The formed Cu+ could catalyze H2O2 to produce hydroxyl radicals (˙OH) via a Fenton‐like reaction. The formed PDA‐Cu(II)‐PEG NPs displayed good photothermal conversion efficiency and photothermal stability. They can be internalized by 4T1 cells effectively. Under near‐infrared light irradiation, PDA‐Cu(II)‐PEG NPs can generate hyperthermia and ˙OH for photothermal/chemodynamic therapy against tumor cells.
Identification of Novel, Immunogenic HLA–DR‐Presented Prevotella copri Peptides in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Pianta Annalisa , Chiumento Geena , Ramsden Kristina , Wang Qi , Strle Klemen , Arvikar Sheila , Costello Catherine E. , Steere Allen C.
Published: May 2021

Objective

We previously identified HLA–DR‐presented epitopes from a 27‐kd protein of Prevotella copri (Pc) obtained from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from 1 rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patient. Herein, we sought to identify other HLA–DR‐presented Pc peptides and source proteins in PBMCs from additional patients to better understand Pc immune responses and RA disease pathogenesis.

Methods

Using tandem mass spectrometry, we searched for HLA–DR‐presented Pc peptides in PBMCs from RA and Lyme arthritis (LA) patients. The identified peptides and source proteins were tested for reactivity in RA patients, those with other arthritides, and the general population. These results were assessed for correlation with clinical findings.

Results

Including Pc‐p27, we identified 5 HLA–DR‐presented Pc peptides, each derived from a different Pc protein, in 3 of 4 RA patients, but none in 2 LA patients. When tested in our RA cohort, 14 of 19 patients (74%) had T cell responses, and 47 of 89 patients (53%) had IgG or IgA responses to ≥1 of the 5 Pc peptides or proteins, most commonly IgA reactivity with Pc‐p27. Additionally, 74% of RA patients with IgA antibodies to ≥1 Pc protein had anti–citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPAs) compared with 49% of patients who lacked IgA Pc antibody responses (P = 0.05), and IgA Pc antibody levels correlated with ACPA values.

Conclusion

The majority of the RA patients had Pc immune responses. The correlation of IgA Pc antibody responses, particularly to Pc‐p27, with ACPA supports the hypothesis that specific microbial antigens in the mucosa have a role in shaping or amplifying immune responses in RA joints.
Impact of physicochemical properties on the digestibility of Brazilian whole and polished rice genotypes
Authors: Teixeira Olívia Reis , Batista Cristian de Souza , Colussi Rosana , Martino Hércia Stampini Duarte , Vanier Nathan Levien , Bassinello Priscila Zaczuk
Published: May 2021

Background and objectives

Some factors related to rice processing, composition, and grain microstructure may interfere with starch digestibility. The objective of this work was to evaluate the impact of physicochemical properties and rice processing on the starch digestibility of genotypes produced in Brazil. Five traditional white rice genotypes, one black rice, and one red rice genotype were studied. The traditional white rice genotypes were evaluated as brown rice as well as in the polished rice form, while both black and red rice were evaluated in the unpolished form.

Findings

The digestibility ranged from 41.40% to 99.81%, being positively correlated with starch content and peak viscosity and negatively correlated with pasting temperature. The unpolished rice group exhibited lower digestibility value than the polished rice group as a result of the presence of bran. Low amylose cultivars had higher starch hydrolysis percentage.

Conclusions

The type of processing influenced the starch digestibility profile, in which the presence of bran and pigments in whole rice reduce starch hydrolysis percentage. The extent of gelatinization of the starch, identified through the peak viscosity and the pasting temperature of RVA, also had a direct influence on digestibility.

Significance and novelty

For the first time, different types and processing of Brazilian rice genotypes have been studied about the starch viscosity and digestibility profiles and related to other quality traits, what can drive consumption of a greater diversity of rice according to different market demands and energy needs.
Multicast on‐route cluster propagation using to identify the network intrusion detection system in mobile ad hoc network
Authors: Gracy Theresa W. , Prakash M. , Betina Antony J.
Published: May 2021

Intrusion detection, become a new paradigm in mobile ad hoc network which provide a sense of security to the existing computer and data network, is a retro‐fit approach. The goal of intrusion detection, unauthorized use, misuse, and by insiders and both external penetrator system is to identify the abuse of computer systems. The increase of the connection of the computer system will provide greater access to outsiders; for the intruder, the identification of avoidance becomes a challenge. We propose a multicast on‐route cluster propagation (MORCP) based network intrusion detection system to improve the security based on route analysis. The number of IDS of the prototype has been developed in a number of transmissions on miss‐behavioral transmission. Some of them also have been experimentally deployed in a production system. In addition, segregate path identification algorithm (SPIA) of host‐based and network‐based IDS is investigated, and the characteristics of the corresponding system are identified. In host‐based systems, most of the network‐based IDS, to construct a detection mechanism on the network traffic monitored, as well, while some adoption host audit trail, in order to detect the intrusion activity, input as the main source of information, to adopt an audit trail of the hot operating system. The overview of typical use statistical anomaly detection algorithm in IDS is also included.
Performance of Afirma genomic sequencing classifier vs gene expression classifier in Bethesda category III thyroid nodules: An institutional experience
Authors: Zhang Lin , Smola Brian , Lew Madelyn , Pang Judy , Cantley Richard , Pantanowitz Liron , Heider Amer , Jing Xin
Published: May 2021

Background

Afirma gene expression classifier (GEC) is an adjunct to thyroid fine needle aspiration shown to improve pre‐operative risk assessment and reduce unnecessary surgery of indeterminate thyroid nodules. Genomic sequencing classifier (GSC) is a newer version aiming to improve specificity and positive predictive value (PPV) of Afirma testing. There are limited studies comparing GSC vs GEC. This study was undertaken to compare these classifiers in terms of diagnostic performance and effect on clinical management of indeterminate thyroid nodules.

Methods

The study cohort consisted of patients with thyroid nodules that had a recurrent cytologic diagnosis of atypia of undetermined significance/follicular lesion of undetermined significance (AUS/FLUS) and were tested by either GEC or GSC. Patient demographics, nodule size, and clinical follow‐up were recorded. Benign call rate (BCR) of Afirma testing, rate of subsequent surgery (RSS), rate of histology‐confirmed malignancy (RHM), as well as diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, PPV, negative predicative value (NPV), and accuracy were calculated and compared between GSC and GEC cohorts.

Results

Among 264 AUS/FLUS thyroid nodules, 127 and 137 were tested with GEC and GSC, respectively. Compared to GEC, GSC demonstrated increased BCR (77.3% vs 52%), decreased RSS (31.4% vs 51.2%), greater RHM (29% vs 9.8%) associated with a suspicious Afirma result, as well as improved specificity (82.8% vs 54.5%), PPV (29% vs 9.8%), and diagnostic accuracy (83.9% vs 56.7%), while maintaining high sensitivity and NPV.

Conclusion

Afirma GSC substantially improved BCR, RSS, RHM, and diagnostic performance, enhancing appropriate triage and thereby helped avoid unnecessary surgery in AUS/FLUS thyroid nodules.
A review of cannabidiol‐containing electronic liquids—Current regulations and labelling accuracy
Authors: Dunn Keeley , Taylor Amelia , Turfus Sophie
Published: May 2021

The use of cannabidiol in electronic liquids (e‐liquids) is becoming increasingly widespread, and the current regulations enforced onto nicotine‐containing e‐liquids are not applicable to cannabidiol‐based products. This has led to concerns about the quality of cannabidiol vapes. Articles investigating the reliability of product labelling were reviewed using systematic review criteria. Of 70 e‐liquids, 77.1% of the e‐liquids tested in the articles were found to have underestimated or overestimated the cannabidiol quantities stated in the product labelling. Statistical analysis confirmed that there was a significant difference between the labelled and analysed cannabidiol concentrations (p < 0.05, Mann‐Whitney U and Wilcoxon Signed Rank). Inaccuracies in received cannabidiol dosages could lead to an increased risk of adverse reactions or limit the therapeutic effect received, highlighting the benefit of enforcing specific regulations on cannabidiol‐based e‐liquids to protect consumer safety and guarantee product efficacy.
Concordance between youth and caregiver report of eating disorder psychopathology: Development and psychometric properties of the Eating Disorder‐15 for Parents/Caregivers (ED‐15‐P)
Authors: Accurso Erin C. , Waller Glenn
Published: May 2021

Objective

Outcome measurement in youth with eating disorders relies heavily on self‐report, which is problematic in a population that may deny or minimize symptoms. Caregiver‐report measures are lacking. This study examined the psychometric and clinical properties of a newly‐developed measure designed to assess short‐term change in eating disorder symptomatology as observed by caregivers—the Eating Disorder‐15 for Parents/Caregivers (ED‐15‐P).

Method

At initial presentation to an outpatient eating disorders assessment, 206 families (primary caregiver and their child up to 18 years old) completed psychological measures.

Results

The ED‐15‐P demonstrated excellent reliability, preliminary evidence of discriminant and concurrent validity, and good sensitivity to change early in treatment (first 8 weeks). Agreement between primary caregivers and children on eating disorder psychopathology was moderate, while agreement between pairs of caregivers was relatively strong. Level of agreement varied across behaviors and informants, with poorer caregiver‐child agreement on dieting and driven exercise.

Discussion

Agreement was stronger within caregiver pairs than caregiver‐child pairs, indicating that caregivers and their children have related but unique perspectives on eating disorder symptoms, highlighting the importance of multi‐informant assessment. The ED‐15‐P complements a parallel youth report measure to more comprehensively assess eating disorder psychopathology, with high utility for measuring change over time.
Shifts in biomass and structure of habitat‐formers across a latitudinal gradient
Authors: Stelling‐Wood Talia Peta , Poore Alistair G. B. , Gribben Paul E.
Published: May 2021

Global patterns of plant biomass drive the distribution of much of the marine and terrestrial life on Earth. This is because their biomass and physical structure have important consequences for the communities they support by providing food and habitat. In terrestrial ecosystems, temperature is one of the major determinants of plant biomass and can influence plant and leaf morphology. In temperate marine systems, macroalgae are major habitat‐formers and commonly display highly variable morphology in response to local environmental conditions. Variation in their morphology, and thus habitat structure on temperate reefs, however, is poorly understood across large scales. In this study, we used a trait‐based approach to quantify morphological variability in subtidal rocky reefs dominated by the algal genus Sargassum along a latitudinal gradient, in southeastern Australia (~900 km). We tested whether large‐scale variation in sea surface temperature (SST), site exposure, and nutrient availability can predict algal biomass and individual morphology. We found Sargassum biomass declined with increasing maximum SST. We also found that individual morphology varied with abiotic ocean variables. Frond size and intraindividual variability in frond size decreased with increasing with distance from the equator, as SST decreased and nitrate concentration increased. The shape of fronds displayed no clear relationship with any of the abiotic variables measured. These results suggest climate change will cause significant changes to the structure of Sargassum habitats along the southeastern coast of Australia, resulting in an overall reduction in biomass and increase in the prevalence of thalli with large, highly variable fronds. Using a space‐for‐time approach means shifts in morphological trait values can be used as early warning signs of impending species declines and regime shifts. Consequently, by studying traits and how they change across large scales we can potentially predict and anticipate the impacts of environmental change on these communities.
Feasibility Study of Microwave‐Assisted Biodiesel Production from Vegetable Oil Refinery Waste
Authors: Alishahi Afsaneh , Golmakani Mohammad‐Taghi , Niakousari Mehrdad
Published: May 2021

Vegetable oil refinery waste containing acid oil is used as an inexpensive feedstock for producing biodiesel by microwave‐assisted esterification (MAE) method. Effects of some main variables such as free fatty acid:methanol molar ratio (1:1, 1:5, and 1:10), reaction time (5, 30, and 60 min), and catalyst concentration (1%, 2%, and 3%) on physicochemical properties of produced biodiesel are investigated. Optimum reaction conditions of MAE are free fatty acid:methanol molar ratio of 1:10, reaction time of 60 min, and a catalyst concentration of 3%, while having 95.79% conversion yield. By increasing the conversion yield of the biodiesel, density and color brightness increase, while viscosity and refractive index decrease. There are no significant differences between physicochemical and heating properties of biodiesel produced by MAE and magnetic stirrer esterification (MSE) methods. Meanwhile, energy consumption of MAE method is almost four times lower than that of MSE. MAE as a promising alternative to the conventional esterification method can be considered as an energy‐efficient method for producing biodiesel from inexpensive vegetable oil refinery waste.

Practical applications: Acid oil is an inexpensive by‐product of alkali refining in vegetable oil plants that would pollute the environment if not rendered safely. In this study, MAE is used to convert acid oil to biodiesel as a practical process for bringing alkali refining waste into production cycle. Acid oil can provide a reduction in the cost of biodiesel production. In addition, application of energy‐efficient MAE method can facilitate the economical production of biodiesel.
Predicting individual variability in task‐evoked brain activity in schizophrenia
Authors: Tik Niv , Livny Abigail , Gal Shachar , Gigi Karny , Tsarfaty Galia , Weiser Mark , Tavor Ido
Published: May 2021

What goes wrong in a schizophrenia patient's brain that makes it so different from a healthy brain? In this study, we tested the hypothesis that the abnormal brain activity in schizophrenia is tightly related to alterations in brain connectivity. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), we demonstrated that both resting‐state functional connectivity and brain activity during the well‐validated N‐back task differed significantly between schizophrenia patients and healthy controls. Nevertheless, using a machine‐learning approach we were able to use resting‐state functional connectivity measures extracted from healthy controls to accurately predict individual variability in the task‐evoked brain activation in the schizophrenia patients. The predictions were highly accurate, sensitive, and specific, offering novel insights regarding the strong coupling between brain connectivity and activity in schizophrenia. On a practical perspective, these findings may allow to generate task activity maps for clinical populations without the need to actually perform any tasks, thereby reducing patients inconvenience while saving time and money.
TIPS for Adults Without Cirrhosis With Chronic Mesenteric Venous Thrombosis and EHPVO Refractory to Standard‐of‐Care Therapy
Authors: Knight Gabriel M. , Clark Jeffrey , Boike Justin R. , Maddur Haripriya , Ganger Daniel R. , Talwar Abhinav , Riaz Ahsun , Desai Kush , Mouli Samdeep , Hohlastos Elias , Garcia Pagan Juan‐Carlos , Gabr Ahmed , Stein Brady , Lewandowski Robert , Thornburg Bartley , Salem Riad
Published: May 2021

Background and Aims

Extrahepatic portal vein occlusion (EHPVO) from portal vein thrombosis is a rare condition associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. The purpose of this study is to investigate the efficacy of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts (TIPS) for the treatment of chronic EHPVO, cavernomatosis, and mesenteric venous thrombosis in adults without cirrhosis who are refractory to standard‐of‐care therapy.

Approach and Results

Thirty‐nine patients with chronic EHPVO received TIPS. Laboratory parameters and follow‐up were assessed at 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 months, and every 6 months thereafter. Two hepatologists adjudicated symptom improvement attributable to mesenteric thrombosis and EHPVO before/after TIPS. Kaplan‐Meier was used to assess primary and overall TIPS patency, assessing procedural success. Adverse events, radiation exposure, hospital length‐of‐stay and patency were recorded. Cavernoma was present in 100%, with TIPS being successful in all cases using splenic, mesenteric, and transhepatic approaches. Symptom improvement was noted in 26 of 30 (87%) at 6‐month follow‐up. Twelve patients (31%) experienced TIPS thrombosis. There were no significant long‐term laboratory adverse events or deaths. At 36 months, freedom from primary TIPS thrombosis was 63%; following secondary interventions, overall patency was increased to 81%.

Conclusions

TIPS in chronic, noncirrhotic EHPVO with cavernomas and mesenteric venous thrombosis is technically feasible and does not adversely affect liver function. Most patients demonstrate subjective and objective benefit from TIPS. Improvement in patency rates are needed with proper timing of adjuvant anticoagulation.
Laparotomic versus robotic surgery in elderly patients with endometrial cancer: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Raffone Antonio , Travaglino Antonio , Raimondo Diego , Boccia Dominga , Vetrella Martino , Verrazzo Paolo , Granata Marcello , Casadio Paolo , Insabato Luigi , Mollo Antonio , Seracchioli Renato
Published: May 2021

Background

Although robotics has been shown to improve outcomes in some high‐difficulty surgical category patients, it is unclear if such an approach may improve outcomes in elderly patients with endometrial carcinoma (EC).

Objective

To compare robotic and laparotomic surgery in the treatment and staging of elderly EC patients.

Materials and methods

A systematic review and meta‐analysis was performed assessing the risk of overall, intra‐operative, and peri‐operative complications associated with the surgical approach (laparotomic vs robotic) for elderly patients with EC by relative risk (RR). Pooled means ± standard deviation of length of stay were compared with the unpaired t test. Subgroup analyses for overall complications were performed based on different age cut‐offs (>70, >65, and >75 years) and severity of complications (minor and major). A value of P less than 0.05 was considered significant.

Results

Five studies with 7629 EC patients were included. Pooled RR for robotic compared with laparotomic surgery was 0.40 (P < 0.001) for overall, 0.46 (P = 0.18) for intra‐operative, and 0.43 (P < 0.001) for peri‐operative complications. Pooled difference between means ± standard deviation of length of stay for robotic versus laparotomic surgery was −3.34 (P < 0.001). At subgroup analyses, pooled RR of overall complications for robotic surgery versus laparotomic surgery was 0.34 (P < 0.001) in the >70 years, 0.51 (P < 0.01) in the >65 years, 0.20 (P = 0.12) in the >75 years groups. Pooled RR was 0.50 (P = 0.1) in the minor complications subgroup, and 0.42 (P = 0.002) in the major complications subgroup.

Conclusion

Robotics might be a viable alternative to the laparotomic approach for EC in elderly patients because it significantly decreases the risk of overall and peri‐operative complications (mainly major complications), and the length of stay when compared with laparotomy. The decrease in risk of overall complications is greater with increasing patient age.
Examining stereotypy in naturalistic contexts: Differential reinforcement and context‐specific redirection
Authors: Steinhauser Haley M. K. , Ahearn William H. , Foster Rebecca A. , Jacobs Mariah , Doggett Cassidy G. , Goad Mattie S.
Published: May 2021

This study examined stereotypy in naturalistic classroom contexts (i.e., academic programming, leisure skill acquisition) with differential reinforcement of contextually appropriate behavior (DRA). When stereotypy was problematic, redirection to the ongoing activity was provided. Contextually appropriate behavior and stereotypy were measured across all contexts prior to redirecting stereotypy to contextually appropriate behavior. Low levels of stereotypy were observed during the DRA in at least 2 contexts for all 5 participants. Context‐specific redirection was added to the DRA if stereotypy persisted, and decreased stereotypy in 9 of the 10 evaluations. The results suggest that stereotypy might not be problematic in all contexts when DRA is present and redirection to contextually relevant appropriate behavior is an effective strategy.
From Functional Efficiency to Temporal Efficiency: Multifunctional Products Increase Consumer Impatience
Authors: You Yanfen , Pan Jingjing , Yang Xiaojing , Fei Xianzheng
Published: May 2021

Multifunctional products are ubiquitous in consumers' daily lives. However, scant research has examined whether and how the presence of multifunctional products systematically alters consumer behavior beyond product evaluations and adoption. Across four experiments and three supplementary studies, the authors identify a multifunction‐impatience effect. They show that after exposure to multifunctional (vs. single‐function) products, consumers are more likely to choose a smaller but sooner (vs. a larger but later) reward (Study 1), report more impatience when waiting for the web search results to load and perceive the loading time as longer (Study 2), and are willing to pay more for expedited shipping (Study 3). The authors further show that the effects occur because multifunctional products activate an efficiency goal among consumers, which renders them less patient (studies 2 and 3). In addition to the regular, “sequential” multifunctional products for which each of the functions has a specific usage situation, the proposed effect also applies to “simultaneous” multifunctional products whose functions operate simultaneously during consumption (Study 4). Taken together, this research broadens the scholarly understanding of the effects of multifunctional products from consumers' responses to these products to the unintended impact of such products on consumer impatience.