bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comprehensive Output Estimation of Double Scattering Proton System with Analytical and Machine Learning Models
Authors: Zhu Jiahua , Cui Taoran , Zhang Yin , Zhang Yang , Ma Chi , Liu Bo , Nie Ke , Yue Ning , Wang Xiao
Published: April 2021

The beam output of double scattering proton system is difficult to be accurately modeled by treatment planning system (TPS). This study aims to design an empirical method using the analytical and machine learning (ML) models to estimate proton output in a double scattering proton system. Three analytical models and three ML models using Gaussian process regression (GPR) were generated on a training dataset consisting of 1544 clinical measurements, and the accuracy of each model was validated against additional 241 clinical measurements as testing dataset. Two most robust models (polynomial model and the ML GPR model with exponential kernel) were selected, and these two independent models agreed with less than 2% deviation using the testing dataset. The minimum number of samples needed for either model to achieve sufficient accuracy (± 3%) was determined by evaluating the mean average percentage error (MAPE) with increasing sample number, and the differences between the estimated outputs using the two models were also compared for 1000 proton beams with randomly generated range, and modulation for each option. These two models can be used as an independent output prediction tool for a double scattering proton beam, and a secondary output check tool for cross check between themselves.
3D monitoring of the surface slippage effect on micro-particle sedimentation by digital holographic microscopy
Authors: Panahi Majid , Jamali Ramin , Rad Vahideh Farzam , Khorasani Mojtaba , Darudi Ahamd , Moradi Ali-Reza
Published: April 2021

In several phenomena in biology and industry, it is required to understand the comprehensive behavior of sedimenting micro-particles in fluids. Here, we use the numerical refocusing feature of digital holographic microscopy (DHM) to investigate the slippage effect on micro-particle sedimentation near a flat wall. DHM provides quantitative phase contrast and three-dimensional (3D) imaging in arbitrary time scales, which suggests it as an elegant approach to investigate various phenomena, including dynamic behavior of colloids. 3D information is obtained by post-processing of the recorded digital holograms. Through analysis of 3D trajectories and velocities of multiple sedimenting micro-particles, we show that proximity to flat walls of higher slip lengths causes faster sedimentation. The effect depends on the ratio of the particle size to (1) the slip length and (2) its distance to the wall. We corroborate our experimental findings by a theoretical model which considers both the proximity and the particle interaction to a wall of different hydrophobicity in the hydrodynamic forces.
Study on 3D Reconstruction of Defocus Blur Light Spots based on AI-enabled Virtual - Wireless Communications
Authors: Shi Yun , Zhu Yan-yan
Published: April 2021

The application of artificial intelligence and machine learning technology in the field of wireless communication has received great attention. The success of artificial intelligence in speech understanding, image recognition, natural language processing and other fields shows its great potential to solve the problem of difficult modeling. Aiming at the problem of 3D reconstruction of defocused blur spots, a method based on adaptive defocus blur radius estimation and double hidden layer BP neural network is proposed. This method first uses an adaptive segmentation algorithm to extract the approximate elliptical spot in the defocused blurred image, and then uses the gradient amplitude distribution to extract the defocused blurred area, thereby calculating the blur radius. Then, using the network to adaptively learn the geometric structure relationship between the target 3D position, the target image point position and the defocus blur radius, it is established that the center pixel coordinates of the light spot and the corresponding defocus blur radius are used as input, and the 3D coordinates of the target are used as input. Output, the two hidden layers in the middle have established a neural network for the 3D reconstruction of the defocused blur spot. The experimental results show that the double hidden layer BP network model proposed in this paper can realize the 3D reconstruction of the blurred spot after training, and the method proposed in this paper has higher 3D reconstruction accuracy than without considering the defocus blur effect.
Inter-center comparison of good-manufacturing-practices compliant stromal vascular fraction and proposal for release acceptance criteria: a review of 364 productions
Authors: François Pauline , Rusconi Giulio , Arnaud Laurent , Mariotta Luca , Giraudo Laurent , Minonzio Greta , Veran Julie , Bertrand Baptiste , Dumoulin Chloé , Grimaud Fanny , Lyonnet Luc , Casanova Dominique , Giverne Camille , Cras Audrey , Magalon Guy , Dignat-George Françoise , Sabatier Florence , Magalon Jeremy , Soldati Gianni
Published: April 2021

Background : Even though the manufacturing processes of the stromal vascular fraction for clinical use are performed in compliance with the good-manufacturing practices applying to advanced therapy medicinal products, specifications related to stromal vascular fraction quality remain poorly defined. We analyzed stromal vascular fraction clinical batches from two independent good-manufacturing practices-compliant manufacturing facilities, the Swiss Stem Cell Foundation (SSCF) and Marseille University Hospitals (AP-HM), with the goal of defining appropriate and harmonized release acceptance criteria.Methods: This retrospective analysis reviewed the biological characteristics of 364 batches of clinical-grade stromal vascular fraction. Collected data included cell viability, recovery yield, cell subset distribution of stromal vascular fraction and microbiological quality. Results: stromal vascular fraction from SSCF cohort demonstrated a higher viability (89.33 % ± 4.30 %) and recovery yield (2.54 × 105 ± 1.22 × 105 viable nucleated cells (VNCs) per mL of adipose tissue) than stromal vascular fraction from AP-HM (84.20% ± 5.96% and 2.25 × 105 ± 1.11 × 105 VNCs). AP-HM batches were significantly less contaminated (95.71 % of sterile batches versus 74.15 %) The cell subset distribution was significantly different (higher proportion of endothelial cells and lower proportion of leukocytes and pericytes in SSCF cohort). Conclusions: Both centers agreed that a good-manufacturing practices-compliant stromal vascular fraction batch should exert a viability equal or superior to 80 %; a minimum recovery yield of 1.50 × 105 VNCs per mL of adipose tissue; a proportion of adipose-derived stromal cells at least equal to 20 %; and a proportion of leukocytes under 50 %. In addition, a multiparameter gating strategy for stromal vascular fraction analyze is proposed.
A Clinical Shoulder Proprioception Test Shows Good Reliability, and Decreased Shoulder Joint Position Sense Due to Local Fatigue in Handballers: A Repeated Measures Design
Authors: Sutton Peter , Ohlsson Marie , Röijezon Ulrik
Published: April 2021

Background: Assessment of shoulder proprioception outside the laboratory in the absence of specialized equipment remains a challenge with field-based tests often lacking good reliability, validity and feasibility. This study aimed to enhance the knowledge base surrounding the assessment of shoulder proprioception and investigated the effect of fatigue on shoulder joint position sense (JPS) amongst amateur male handball players.Method: 27 healthy recreationally active participants and 13 amateur male handball players undertook two sessions of active JPS tests using laser pen technology and a calibrated 2-dimensional target to assess test-retest reliability. The active JPS test was then utilized on the subgroup of handball players who were subjected to five bouts of a repeated throwing task in order to investigate the effect of local fatigue on shoulder JPS. Results: The intraclass correlation coefficient for the active JPS test was 0.78 (95% CI = [0.57; 0.89]). Standard error of measurement between trials was 0.70° (range 0.57°-0.90°). For the throwing task, repeated measures analysis of variance revealed a significant interaction for arm x bout (F5=2.74, p=0.028) and a significant effect for arm (F1=5.85, p=0.034). Post hoc analysis showed a significant difference between throwing arm and non-throwing arm after throwing bout one (p=0.036), three (p=0.026) and four (p=0.041). Conclusion: Assessment of the active JPS test showed acceptable reliability and measurement error. Repeated throwing to fatigue decreased shoulder JPS in amateur male handball players which indicate validity of the test to identify reduced proprioception.
Appendiceal Tumors in Adults, Findings in 1870 Specimens
Authors: gordo Sandra Lopez , Frago R , Galvez A , Kreisler E , Biondo S.
Published: April 2021

PurposeThe appendiceal disease is a frequent entity, with a non-negligible number of malignancies. There is an association of synchronous appendiceal tumors with other malignancies, therefore a routine appendectomy could be considered. The aim of our study is to analyze the number of cases of non-inflammatory appendiceal disease with unusual histopathological findings of appendix samples. Secondary aims are to analyze the recurrence and mortality of appendicular tumors.Methods A retrospective cohort study of all the appendectomy specimens in a period of time of 5 years was performed.ResultsA total of 1870 appendectomies were included. Non-inflammatory disease was found in 127 cases (5.5%) and malignant neoplasm in 33 patients (1.76%). Mucinous Cystoadenoma was the most common benign tumor, representing 33.3 % of total cases. The most common appendiceal neoplasm was adenocarcinoma (11 patients) and neuroendocrine tumors (22 patients). Acute appendicitis was the most frequent surgical indications in those patients. In the adenocarcinoma group, older patients were more frequent (p=0.003), as was the presence of abscess (p=0.016). From the appendiceal neoplasm, 30% (10 patients) had a synchronous colorectal or gynecological cancer. Five-year survival for adenocarcinoma and neuroendocrine tumors was 53.6 % (95% CI 51-94) and 45.5 % (95% CI 26-72) (p=0,373).ConclusionsHistopathological assessment of the appendix will allow early diagnosis of many unusual findings of the appendix. We recommend to considered routine appendectomy due to the high incidence of appendiceal tumors and a non-negligible number of synchronous colorectal and gynecological cancers.
Group Maintenance Strategy of CNC Machine Tools Considering Three Kinds of Maintenance Dependence and Its Optimization
Authors: Sun Junkai , Sun Zezhou , Chen Chuanhai , Yan Chuliang , Jin Tongtong , Zhong Yuan
Published: April 2021

Unreasonable maintenance strategies will increase maintenance costs and reduce the efficiency of CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machine tools. Therefore, not only the degradation state of components but also their coupling effect should be considered to obtain a scientific and reasonable system-level maintenance strategy because of the dependence among different components of CNC machine tools. This study proposes a group maintenance strategy of CNC machine tools considering economic, structural, and stochastic dependence among critical components and optimizes the group maintenance strategy. The model of group maintenance of CNC machine tools is composed of four sub-models: sub-model of component degression, sub-model of group maintenance decisions, sub-model of imperfect maintenance, sub-model of maintenance cost. Utilizing the model of group maintenance of CNC machine tools, the time, objective, and measures of maintenance can be decided according to the degression state and failures. And then, the cost of each maintenance can be calculated. In the group maintenance model, economic dependence and structural dependence among components are quantified by cost, while stochastic dependence is quantified by failure intensity. On that basis, the Monte Carlo method is used to simulate the machine tool operation process and the long-term maintenance cost of CNC machine tools corresponding to a certain failure intensity threshold is calculated. Finally, Genetic Algorithm is used to optimize the failure intensity thresholds of preventive and group maintenance. A numerical example verifies the effectiveness of the proposed optimization method for group maintenance strategy.
A cross-sectional overview of SARS-CoV-2 genome variations in Turkey
Authors: Ergünay Koray , Kaya Mücahit , Serdar Muhittin , Akyön Yakut , Yılmaz Engin
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Nearly a year following the emergence of COVID-19 in Turkey, we analysed SARS-CoV-2 sequences to identify virus genome variations and their probable impact on epidemiology, immune response and clinical disease.Materials and Methods: Complete genomes and partial Spike (S) region sequences originating from Turkey were accessed from the Global Initiative on Sharing Avian Influenza Data (GISAID) database. The genomes were aligned and analysed for variations and recombinations using appropriate softwares. Results: 410 complete genomes and 206 S region sequences were included. Overall, 1200 distinct nucleotide variations were noted. Mean variation count was noted as 14.2 per genome and increased significantly during the course of the pandemic. The most frequent variations were identified as A23403G (D614G; 92.9,%), C14408T (P323L, 92.2%), C3037T (89.8%), C241T (83.4%) and GGG28881AAC (RG203KR, 62.6%). The A23403G mutation was the most frequent variation in the S region sequences (99%). Majority of the genomes (%98.3) belonged in the SARS-CoV-2 haplogroup A. No evidence for recombination was identified in genomes representing sub-haplogroup branches. The variants of concern B.1.1.7, B.1.351 and P.1 were detected, with a statistically-significant time-associated increase in the variant B.1.1.7 prevalence. Discussion: We described prominant SARS-CoV-2 variantions as well as comparisons with global virus diversity. Continuing a molecular surveillence in agreement with local disease epidemiology appears to be crucial, as vaccination and mitigation efforts are ongoing.
THE IMPACT OF THE UKRAINE'S GREEN DEAL CONCEPT AND THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC ON THE TRAJECTORY OF UKRAINE'S INNOVATIVE DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Myroshnychenko Iu. , Lyulyov O.
Published: April 2021

The article examines the impact of Ukraine's Green Deal concept and the COVID-19 pandemic on the country's innovation development trajectory. The authors study the thematic focus of scientific publications in the context of the impact of the pandemic on global socio-economic and managerial processes. As a result, 9 clusters connected by thematic proximity were identified. It is identified that the new challenges require profound changes in the organization of the health care system, which will lead to large-scale investments in disease prevention infrastructure and the accelerated digital transformation of health care delivery. Telemedicine services, knowledge and technology transfer in health care practice, industrial and system design, development of bio- and nanotechnology are defined as innovative development trajectories. At the same time, the authors noted that the process of developing and implementing innovations is constrained by the problems of imports and a shortage of personnel for entrepreneurship due to supply chain disruptions and self-isolation policies. Besides, the uncertainty of the pace of pandemic development and its impact on the economy of states complicates the development of longterm macroeconomic policy. Socio-economic development planning should include sectoral transformation programs, and adequate financial incentives for the development of innovative entrepreneurship, the creation of reliable and sustainable business models. The article identifies the key areas of innovative development such as programs for sustainable economic restructuring, achieving the goals of Ukraine's Green Deal and the development of biotechnology industry and telemedicine.
PROBLEMS OF EVALUATION AND INVESTMENT ATTRACTIVENESS MANAGEMENT AT THE MACROECONOMIC LEVEL
Authors: Lyulyov O.V. , Moskalenko B.A.
Published: April 2021

Analysis of the dynamics of the movement and structure of investment resources allows us to determine how competitive a sector of the national economy is in attracting foreign investment and identify problems before they affect the related macroeconomic indicators. The article examines the factors influencing FDI inflows and their interaction with public authorities. Based on the data of the quality of political institutions (WGI), developed with the participation of representatives of the World Bank, a basis for assessing the investment attractiveness of Ukraine was formed. As part of a study of international experience in assessing investment attractiveness, the authors analyzed current approaches to assessing the impact of political institutions on the dynamics of FDI and concluded on the qualitative characteristics of political institutions. Due to the limited supply of quality investment resources, the study of the assessment of the investment potential of the national economy is an important aspect of the implementation of domestic socio-economic policy. The study of the dynamics of macroeconomic indicators of the economy of Ukraine allowed to form a set of indices that have a significant impact on decision-making by potential investors. The authors proposed an approach to determining investment attractiveness based on the analysis of the dynamics of quantitative indicators of the state of the economy and quality indicators of public administration. The proposed model allows to assess the impact of each of the factors on the dynamics of FDI, to identify problems that demotivate the inflow of investment resources and to develop recommendations for investment policy management at the state level. Analysis of the dynamics of the movement and structure of investment resources allows us to determine how competitive a sector of the national economy is in attracting foreign investment and identify problems before they affect the related macroeconomic indicators. The authors' approach to assessing investment attractiveness takes into account most of the main determinants of FDI. In the analysis of the literature, it was decided to take into account not only quantitative statistics, but also the results of a survey of experts, which should have avoided the bias associated with the problem of non-consideration of variables. Further development of improving the assessment of investment attractiveness of the country by updating the list of determining factors and indicators influencing the movement of FDI, and ranking of indicators of investment attractiveness using the methods of expert assessments.
Modern features of the epidemic process of viral infections with aerosol transmission in Sumy oblast
Authors: Malysh N.G. , Matsyuk M.V. , Senchenko A.V.
Published: April 2021

Viral infections with aerosol transmission are one of the most common infectious diseases in the world. Their relevance is due to the wide distribution and socio-medical consequences. To study the dynamics of the incidence of viral infections with aerosol transmission in Sumy Oblast, to determine the level of influence of social and natural factors on the intensity of the epidemic process. Data from the sectoral statistical reporting of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine, Sumy Regional Laboratory Center, the Main Department of Statistics in Sumy Oblast, Sumy Regional Center of Hydrometeorology were used. Epidemiological and statistical research methods were used. It was established that in Sumy Oblast the epidemic process of aerosol viral infections was characterized by a pronounced tendency to reduced incidence of influenza (Rinc.aver.= -6.2 %) and rubella (Rinc.aver.= -22.7 %), moderate reduction tendency ‒ to mumps (Rinc.aver = -2.4 %); high intensity with no reduction in incidence ‒ for other acute respiratory diseases (Rinc.aver = 0.2 %); a sharp increase in the incidence of measles (Rinc.aver.= 23.1 %). Coronavirus infection caused by SARS-CoV-2 was found in 3% of the population. The average long-term rates of measles, rubella, and mumps vaccinations with MPR-1 and MPR-2 vaccines were 70.9 % and 61.2 %, respectively. An inverse correlation was established between air humidity, population, coefficients of natural and migratory movement and measles incidence (p<0.05). The system of epidemiological surveillance of infections of viral etiology with aerosol transmission requires new approaches to the development of preventive measures.
The safest method of inducing labour with misoprostol
Authors: Kasungu L.F.
Published: April 2021

Prolong pregnancy cause is unknown; some risk factors like obesity and the previous history has been outlined. The risk for bad outcomes increases with the increase in the time of delivery. Intrauterine fetal death, meconium aspiration, fetal distress, oligohydramnios increased rate of caesarian section are among the complications. Timely delivery with accurate dose of Misoprostol can reduce the bad outcomes.
Misoprostol is a prostaglandin, not expensive and easy to store but with different side effect once wrongly administered. It is not indicated for obstetrics and gynecology in some countries but currently it is widely used for induction of labour.
To assess the effect of Oral miso juice and its outcomes for labour induction in postterm cases and in premature rupture of membrane (PROM) at term.
Search of registered documented files of clients at Kivulini Maternity Center for the year 2020.
Out of 2399 deliveries per year, 67 received oral miso juice due to postterm and PROM. 61 participants aged 17 to 34 years and 6 females were above 35 years of age.
44 (65.7%) started active phase of labour within 24 hours and delivered. 16 (23.9 %) delivered after 24 hours of oral miso juice administration. 7 (10.4%) took more than 48 hours and delivered safely.
57 (85%) of those who received oral miso juice had SVD and 10 (15%) underwent emergency caesarian section due to a complication of Misoprostol as well since the drug can course fetal distress, meconium stained and other complications. 66 (98.5%) of all deliveries had Apgar score of >7 in the 1st minute, while 1 (1.5%) had Apgar of <7.
Out of all deliveries, only 1 (1.5%) underwent caesarian section reason being non reassuring fetal status (NRFS).
Out of all deliveries, 14 (20%) were accompanied by perineum tear of I&II degree and in 14 (20%) cases episiotomy was applied.
The weight of the babies delivered after miso juice was distributed as follows: 2.5 to 3.5 kg – 54 cases and 3.6 to 4.5kg – 13 cases. No babies were delivered with weight above 4.5 kg. Among them, 33 (49%) were male babies and 34 (51%) were female babies.
Oral miso juice is effective to achieve a safe spontaneous vaginal delivery. It is more effective than other method of induction of labour especially in developing country and in facility with limited human resources. It is possible to say that oral miso juice is the optimal regimen with less risk once in a right dose.
A point on the use of test animals in educational process
Authors: Shkatula Yu.V. , Badion Yu.O.
Published: April 2021

The article considers the issues of experiments on animals during the training process of medical students. The objective of the work is to assess the possibility, necessity and expediency of experiments on animals during the training of medical students with identification of possible alternatives. An anonymous impersonal survey of 83 interns was conducted. The purpose of the experiments, animal species, methods of anesthesia, respondent’s role in the experiment, and the level of acquired knowledge were investigated. As an option, the respondents offered an alternative to experiments on animals during the educational process. It was found that 47% of respondents perceive experiments on animals during training as an indispensable, traditional and common practice. A significant part of respondents (33.7%) stated complete absence of new information obtained, 47% admitted that the level of knowledge obtained was moderate, and 19.3% reported considerable level of knowledge obtained. Most respondents were not familiar with the same issue in other countries and with the relevant national laws and regulations. In general, 86.7% of respondents expressed their negative attitude to causing harm to animals. The practice of experiments on animals must be brought into accordance with legal requirements. It is unacceptable to use animals for educational purposes, if this goal can be achieved in other ways. Animal testing is justified only when there is a reason to expect that the results will significantly contribute to the solution of current scientific problems. The introduction of alternative methods and means in the educational process will improve the learning process and reduce the number of experiments on animals.
Water in bakery production technology products with delayed bakery
Authors: Verkhivker Ya. G. , Myroshnichenko E. M. , Petkova O. V.
Published: April 2021

In bakery water is used as a solvent for salt, sugar and other raw materials: for dough preparation, preparation of liquid yeast, starter cultures; goes for household needs cleaning of raw materials, equipment, premises, for heat engineering purposes — the production of steam necessary to humidify the air in proofing cabinets and ovens. Water plays an important role in the technology of delayed baking of bread products or in the technology of frozen semi-finished products: it is used during kneading to obtain an optimally developed gluten frame for better form and gas holding capacity; to obtain cold dough, which is the basis for slowing down the onset of the fermentation process, while fermentation should be minimized or completely absent; the amount of water affects the consistency of the dough for better dimensional stability during defrosting. Also, a low-temperature process, deep freezing strongly affects the structural and mechanical properties of the dough and the quality of the finished product; secondly, under certain parameters of freezing, the structure of the intracellular water of yeast can lead to a decrease in their activity, and even to the death of microorganisms. Therefore, the issues of the quality and quantity of water at any technological operation in bakery production with delayed baking are issues of the quality of finished products and therefore are very relevant.
Optimization of food compositions according to the ideal protein profile
Authors: Zverev S. V. , Karpov V. I. , Nikitina M. A.
Published: April 2021

The paper emphasizes the importance of not only the quantitative but also qualitative composition of protein in nutrition. The authors propose protein classification into three main groups according to the concept of reference (ideal) protein. A mathematical model is examined to solve the task of rational mixture production upon the given profile of reference protein. Two variants of the criterion for formation of optimal composition are described. One of them presents the classical sum of squares of the residual for essential amino acid scores and 1. The second also presents the sum of squares of the residual for essential amino acid scores and 1 but with regard to only those amino acids, which scores are less than 1. The minima of these criteria at the set of variants for the content of ingredients are taken as targeted functions. The algorithm and the program of calculation were realized in the program environment Builder C++ 6.0. The macro flowchart of the algorithm is presented and detailed description of each block is given. The program interface before and after the start of the calculation module is shown. The main windows and interpretation of the presented data are described. An example of realization of the proposed mathematical apparatus when calculating a food model composition is given. Plant components (white kidney beans, flax, peanut, grit “Poltavskaya», dry red carrot) were used as an object of the research. Most plant proteins were incomplete. It is possible to regulate the chemical composition including correction of a protein profile by combination of plant raw materials. Analysis of alternative variants demonstrated that minimum essential amino acid score in the first composition was 0.79 (by the first criterion), in the second 1.0 (by the second criterion); the reference protein proportion in the mixture was 10.8 and 13.5, respectively, according to the first and second criterion. The comparative results by other quality indicators for protein in the mixture are also presented: the coefficient of amino acid score difference (CAASD), biological value (BV), coefficient of utility, essential amino acids index (IEAA).
To the question of determining glycemic index by glucose
Authors: Vitol I. S. , Meleshkina E. P. , Dubtsova G. N.
Published: April 2021

The analysis of methods for determining the glycemic index (GI) of food products in vivo and in vitro. The authors note that the difference in the methodological approach to the determination of GI in vitro leads to obtaining results that are difficult to compare. A modified method for determining the GI for glucose is proposed, which is based on the method for determining the glycemic index for glucose, which makes it possible to assess the digestibility of various ingredients in products in terms of sugar load, and to calculate the glycemic index for glucose formed in the process of "digestion” of the test product in vitro. The modified technique provides for the use of digestive enzyme preparations: Acedin-pepsin and Panzinorm to provide a deeper "digestion” in vitro, providing a deep degree of hydrolysis of the main macronutrients in in vitro model experiments. The conditions for carrying out enzymatic hydrolysis reactions (temperature, pH, reaction duration) were selected experimentally. The studies carried out to determine the GI in vitro, according to the proposed method, showed comparable values, which indicates the possibility of using this method for the determination of GI in vitro. The results obtained should be considered as indicative, since the authors adhere to the position that the true value of the GI index can only be determined by blood analysis. But in this case, the value of GI is influenced by many factors, including the individual characteristics of the human organism.
Discurso sobre o colonialismo de Aimé Césaire
Authors: Viveros Vigoya Mara , FACUNDO NAVIA Angela Mercedes
Published: April 2021

Nesse texto, a antropóloga colombiana Mara Viveros analisa a importância e sagacidade do “Discurso sobre o colonialismo” de Aimé Césaire, apontando o autor Martinicano como um emblema da consciência antirracista e anticolonial no mundo. Ao mesmo tempo que a autora expõe a relevância do Discurso sobre o colonialismo para o mundo afro-latino-americano e para os projetos feministas descoloniais latino-americanos contemporâneos, aponta a omissão na obra de Césaire das questões que hoje em dia chamaríamos de gênero. O texto está organizado em três partes: a primeira percorre a proposta do autor focando na sua aguda e profética resposta, em nome dos povos colonizados, ao projeto de civilização europeu. Num segundo momento se ocupa das tensões colocadas pelas demandas de uma igualdade que reconheça as diferenças que foram expostas pelo autor e, finalmente, sugere vários elementos da proposta teórico-política de Césaire que poderiam ser úteis aos movimentos feministas latino-americanos, especialmente os feminismos descoloniais e antirracistas.
Expression of a Disintegrin and Metalloprotease 10 Gene Polymorphisms in a Cohort of Egyptian Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Mohamed Amal A. , Abo-Elmatty Dina M. , ezzat Omnia I , Youssef Ahmed A. , Mehanna Eman T. , Hassnine Alshymaa A. , Mesbah Noha M. , Saed Salma , Sayed Eman Al , Hamada Mahmoud , Khamis Afaf F. , Elshentenawy Ayman , Abd El-Raouf Marwa S.E. , Abd-Elsalam Sherief , Elsayed Amr M.
Published: April 2021

Background:

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of cancer mortality.
There is a need for a marker associated with HCC progression. A disintegrin and metalloprotease
(ADAMs) family proteins have a lot of functions in cell adhesion, migration, proteolysis and
signaling.

Aims:

The aim of the study was to investigate the relation between ADAM 10 gene single nucleotide
polymorphisms (SNPs) and HCC progression.

Methods:

This study involved 201 cases divided: Group I (67 HCC patients), Group II (67 cirrhotic
patients), Group III (67 control). Each group was subjected to laboratory investigations: (CBC,
blood sugar, kidney and liver function, viral markers, alpha fetoprotein), imaging: (abdominal ultrasonography,
and triphasic C.T) and ADAM 10 gene polymorphism (rs 653765, rs 383902) detection
by real – time PCR.

Results:

There was a statistically significant difference in the frequency and genotyping of
ADAM10 SNPs in HCC patients in comparison to cirrhotic and control groups [the frequency of rs
653765 genotypes (p=0.015) and model (p=0.013)]; likewise, the frequency of rs 383902 genotypes
(p<0.001) and model (p=0.001)). Also, there was a statistically significant association between
different SNP rs 383902 genotype with CLIP stages (p=0.02) and with VISUM stages
(p=0.035).

Conclusion:

ADAM-10 is overexpressed in HCC patients and involved in HCC progress. These
findings highlight that ADAM inhibitor may be used as therapeutic goals in the treatment of HCC.
Antiglycolytic Activities of Strobilanthes crispus Active Fraction and its Bioactive Components on Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells In Vitro
Authors: Muhammad Siti N.H. , Yaacob Nik S. , Safuwan Nur A.M. , Fauzi Agustine N.
Published: April 2021

Background:

Survival and progression of cancer cells are highly dependent on aerobic glycolysis. Strobilanthes crispus has been shown to have promising anticancer effects on breast cancer cells. The involvement of the glycolysis pathway in producing these effects is unconfirmed, thus further investigation is required to elucidate this phenomenon.

Objective:

This study aims to determine the effect of S. crispus active fraction (F3) and its bioactive components on glycolysis in triple-negative breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231).

Methods:

This study utilizes F3, lutein, β-sitosterol, and stigmasterol to be administered in MDA-MB-231 cells for measurement of antiglycolytic activities through cell poliferation, glucose uptake, and lactate concentration assays. Cell proliferation was assessed by MTT assay of MDA-MB-231 cells after treatment with F3 and its bioactive components lutein, β-sitosterol, and stigmasterol. The IC50 value in each compound was determined by MTT assay to be used in subsequent assays. The determination of glucose uptake activity and lactate concentration were quantified using fluorescence spectrophotometry.

Results:

Antiproliferative activities were observed for F3 and its bioactive components, with IC50 values of 100 μg/mL (F3), 20 μM (lutein), 25 μM (β-sitosterol), and 90 μM (stigmasterol) in MDA-MB-231 cells at 48 h. The percentage of glucose uptake and lactate concentration in MDA-MB-231 cells treated with F3, lutein, or β sitosterol were significantly lower than those observed in the untreated cells in a time-dependent manner. However, treatment with stigmasterol decreased the concentration of lactate without affecting the glucose uptake in MDA-MB-231 cells.

Conclusion:

The antiglycolytic activities of F3 on MDA-MB-231 cells are attributed to its bioactive components.
The influence of pistia powder (Pistia stratiotes L.) in ration on the performance index and red blood cell profile of male Magelang duck
Authors: Fatmawati Eka Rizky , Sarjana Teysar Adi , Suprijatna Edjeng , Santoso Siswanto Imam , Setiadi Agus
Published: April 2021

The research aims at studying the influence of pistia powder (Pistia stratiotes L.) as feed material on the performance index and red blood cell profile of male Magelang duck. The materials used were 100 heads of 4-week old male Magelang duck. The treatments were: T0 (basal), pistia powder in T1, T2 and T3 of ration for male Magelang duck at 6%, 12% and 18%. The parameters observed were Performance Index (PI), number of erythrocytes, amount of hemoglobin, hematocrit level, MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume), MCH (Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin) and MCHC (Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration). The research results showed that using pistia powder up to 18% significantly (P≤0.05) increased performance index (PI) and generally insignificantly (P>0.05) influenced the number of erythrocytes, amount of hemoglobin, hematocrit level, MCV and MCHC, but significantly decreased (P<0.05) MCH. The research concludes that pistia powder may be used up to 18% in ration to increase the performance index without influencing the red blood cell profile of male Magelang duck.
Administering probiotic yakult + tape yeast into the mixture of rice and corn bran as partial replacement of commercial diet affects the carcass yield of broiler chickens
Authors: Zulfan Zulfan , Latif Herawati , Yaman Muhammad Aman , Fitri Cut Aida , Munandar Muhammad Haris
Published: April 2021

The residue originated from antibiotics and hormones had been thought to carry out adverse effects for the human who consume meat processed from the broilers treated by antibiotic feed additive. For this reason, using an alternative additive such as probiotic might produce healthier meat. The objective of the recent study was to evaluate administering different levels of probiotic yakult + tape yeast (YTy) into the mixing of rice bran + corn bran (RCB) to replace 30% of the commercial diet to carcass yield and abdominal fat of broilers. As many as 100 broiler chicks, Cobb strain, were reared up to 5 weeks in this study. The study was designed into a Completely Randomized Design with subsampling consisted of 5 treatments, 4 replications, and 2 sub samples. Broiler commercial diet with the market code of CP 511 Hi-provite manufactured by PT Charoen Pokphand was used for a positive control diet (P0+). The RCB feeds were mixed with 0, 10, 20, and 30 ml/kg of probiotic YTy then being used to replace 30% of the commercial diet to build experimental diets P0-, P1, P2, and P3, respectively. The results of the recent study indicated that administering 10‒30 ml/kg of probiotic YTy highly significantly (P<0.01) increased the weights of the whole carcass and carcass parts. The percentages of whole carcasses among P1, P2, and P3, however, were not statistically different. The percentage of the breast significantly (P<0.05) increased while the percentage of the back significantly (P<0.05) decreased. Although statistically not significant differences, the abdominal fat percentage tended to decline. In conclusion, administering a probiotic YTy in the diet increased the percentage of the whole carcass and tended to reduce the abdominal fat of the broiler.
Evaluation of adoption rate of frozen sexed semen artificial insemination technology adoption in Palang Village, Tuban Regency, East Java
Authors: Prafitri Rizki , Winarto Priyo Sugeng , Yekti Aulia Puspita Anugra , Susilawati Trinil , Kuswati Kuswati
Published: April 2021

A research group of Animal Science Faculty of Brawijaya University introduced and implemented Frozen sexed semen Artificial Insemination to 120 beef cattle farmers in Palang Village, Tuban Regency, East Java, from 2017 to 2019. The result of the program reported that the success rate of the technology is quite high, with the birth rate of male claves up to 80%. However, farmers’ adoption rate of the technology was relatively low. This research aims to evaluate factors that affected the adoption rate including the technology, characteristics of respondents, and the extension agents. Primary data were collected through a census of 120 farmers involved in the program and in-depth interviews with stakeholders. Secondary data were collected through related documents including reports of the programs, Statistics, and other related documents. This research utilized Quantitative and qualitative analyses. Data of the study indicated that respondents have neutral perceptions of the Frozen Semen Sexing Artificial Insemination. Although male calves relatively have a higher price, more than 50% of respondents did not expect specific sexing for the calves. In-depth interview data revealed that the success of the Artificial insemination technology is more valuable for the farmers rather than the sexing. Characteristics of respondents and the extension agents played significant roles in the adoption rate of the Frozen Sexed Semen Artificial Insemination technology adoption in Palang Village, Tuban Regency, East Java.
Feeding strategies for improving ruminant productivity in the post-COVID 19 pandemic era particularly for small holders
Authors: Poppi Dennis P. , Kusmartono Kusmartono , Kasmyati Kasmyati , Quigley Simon P , Harper Karen J
Published: April 2021

COVID-19 has highlighted the need for robust cattle supply chains using local feed resources. Higher Income Over Food Costs (IOFC) are usually achieved when live weight gains are high and the cost of the ingredients are low. There is a need to formulate rations with high metabolisable energy (ME) and crude protein (CP) to achieve the high live weight gain. Rations can be formulated locally by farmer co-operatives, entrepreneurs and local commercial enterprises to take advantage of cheaper prices for local ingredients. To do this, rations need to be altered quickly to take advantage of local fluctuations in prices and availability of ingredients. A recent ACIAR funded project has developed a least cost ration (ACIAR LCR) system to formulate rations to meet minimum ME and CP contents for beef cattle using locally available ingredients. The use of cassava and its various products in combination with protein sources, such as tree legumes and high protein by-products, have markedly improved IOFC.
Building relational capacities from institutional arrangements: lessons based on the construction of Salvador's subway system
Authors: Lima Victor Bastos , Vaz José Carlos
Published: April 2021

This article aims to study the construction process of the subway system in the Brazilian cities of Salvador and Lauro de Freitas, investigating the constraints of state agencies to build this subway infrastructure. By examining the structures created to produce this urban infrastructure policy, this paper tries to explain how institutional arrangements of public policies condition state agency, in other words, how they enhance or undermine the formation of policy capacities to deliver subway infrastructure. The qualitative analysis of the data suggests that the design of institutional arrangements and their change influence the availability and mobilization of actors, resources, competences and policy instruments towards the promotion of efficacy and legitimacy in this policy.
Bienestar animal y calidad de la canal en ovinos de pelo beneficiados en un frigorífico de Córdoba, Colombia
Authors: Aguayo-Ulloa Lorena , Perdomo-Ayola Sandra Carolina
Published: April 2021

Se realizó un estudio transversal del tipo descriptivo en una planta de beneficio (PB) comercial ubicado en el departamento de Córdoba, Colombia, con el objetivo de determinar las características del transporte, manejo presacrificio e indicadores de calidad de la canal relacionados con el bienestar en ovinos. Se observaron 18 descargas y 883 canales de ovinos. Además, se registraron características del vehículo, del viaje y la carga; características del manejo animal en la PB; y calidad de canales en términos de pH y contusiones. La distancia promedio fue de 58.9 kilómetros. El peso promedio de los ovinos fue de 26,8 ± 6 kg y la densidad de carga fue entre 38,7 y 275,9 kg/m2. La espera en planta y la descarga del camión tardaron en promedio 21,7 y 38,7 minutos, respectivamente. El 88,3 % de los animales ingresó al noqueo jalado o empujado por un operario. El tiempo promedio entre noqueo y sangría fue de 74 segundos. El 29,2 % de las canales presentó algún grado de hematomas; 78,8 % afectó solo el tejido subcutáneo y 21,2 %, el tejido muscular. El 58,9 % fue de un diámetro < 5 cm, el 23,6 % entre 5 y 10 cm y 17,4 % > 10 cm. El lomo fue la región anatómica más afectada (49,6 %). El promedio de pH24 horas fue de 5,81. En general, los ovinos destinados a beneficio viajan a elevadas densidades de carga, son altamente manipulados previamente al sacrificio y presentan indicadores de pobre bienestar en la canal que estarían relacionados a algunas fuentes de estrés mencionadas.
Patients’ and Clinicians’ Perceived Trust in Internet-of-Things Systems to Support Asthma Self-management: Qualitative Interview Study
Authors: Hui Chi Yan , McKinstry Brian , Fulton Olivia , Buchner Mark , Pinnock Hilary
Published: April 2021

Background

Asthma affects 235 million people worldwide. Supported self-management, including an action plan agreed with clinicians, improves asthma outcomes. Internet-of-things (IoT) systems with artificial intelligence (AI) can provide customized support for a range of self-management functions, but trust is vital to encourage patients’ adoption of such systems. Many models for understanding trust exist, some explicitly designed for eHealth, but no studies have used these models to explore trust in the context of using IoT systems to support asthma self-management.

Objective

In this study, we aim to use the McKnight model to explore the functionality, helpfulness, and reliability domains of patients’ and clinicians’ trust in IoT systems to deliver the 14 components of self-management support defined by the PRISMS (Practical Reviews in Self-Management Support) taxonomy.

Methods

We used think-aloud techniques in semistructured interviews to explore the views of patients and clinicians. Patients were recruited from research registers and social media and purposively sampled to include a range of ages, genders, action plan ownership, asthma duration, hospital admissions, and experience with mobile apps. Clinicians (primary, secondary, and community-based) were recruited from professional networks. Interviews were transcribed verbatim, and thematic analysis was used to explore perceptions of the functionality, helpfulness, and reliability of IoT features to support components of supported self-management.

Results

A total of 12 patients and 12 clinicians were interviewed. Regarding perceived functionality, most patients considered that an IoT system had functionality that could support a broad range of self-management tasks. They wanted a system to provide customized advice involving AI. With regard to perceived helpfulness, they considered that IoT systems could usefully provide integrated support for a number of recognized components of self-management support. In terms of perceived reliability, they believed they could rely on the system to log their asthma condition and provide preset action plan advice triggered by their logs. However, they were less confident that the system could operate continuously and without errors in providing advice. They were not confident that AI could generate new advice or reach diagnostic conclusions without the interpretation of their trusted clinicians. Clinicians wanted clinical evidence before trusting the system.

Conclusions

IoT systems including AI were regarded as offering potentially helpful functionality in mediating the action plans developed with a trusted clinician, although our technologically adept participants were not yet ready to trust AI to generate novel advice. Research is needed to ensure that technological capability does not outstrip the trust of individuals using it.