bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IMPLEMENTATION OF A HIGH-PRECISION MULTI-CAMERA SYSTEM FOR CORRECTING THE POSITIONING OF A ROBOTIC ARM USED IN SURGICAL OPERATIONS
Authors: Ruiz Oses David , LEZEA ALONSO IBAI , INZIARTE HIDALGO IBAI , GONZALEZ DE LA TORRE SANTIAGO
Published: September 2022

Photogrammetry is a technique that obtains information from objects and their environment through the processing of a set of images, thus obtaining a measurement. It computes the spatial reconstruction of a scene or object through a series of taken images from different points of view. Through the processing of these images, measurements or reconstructions of the observed object can be achieved.
This paper describes the design and implementation of a multi-camera system that, using photogrammetry technique, is able to guide arm robotic movements to achieve higher degree of accuracy in its positioning regardless of the robot used.
It is proposed to use a robotic arm, guided by the cameras, to perform brain retraction tasks in surgical procedures. In this procedure, it is necessary to manipulate the brain with pinpoint precision in order to access internal parts.
Keywords: Multi-camera system, brain retraction, surgery, photogrammetry, robotics, precision engineering
DESIGN OF A SMART PACKAGING FOR SHERRY WINES THROUGH HOLONIC ENGINEERING
Authors: SENA TRUJILLO IGNACIO , AVILA GUTIERREZ MARIA JESUS , LAMA RUIZ JUAN RAMON
Published: September 2022

The purpose of this study is the introduction of the Holonic framework for the conceptual design of an "intelligent packaging" in the Sherry Wine´s Industry. This purpose is based on the search for an effective design, that is, a design that produces the desired effect on the user, thus fulfilling their expectations and leaving aside the existing problems in the traditional wine packaging. Due to the lack of specific methodologies, the holonic model has been chosen as an integrating framework for the design and development of conventional products. In addition, this model allows to support the combined use of other classical methodologies such as: AHP, QFD, FAST, TRIZ among other, allowing to use in the model, the advantages provided by each of them separately. The result is the methodological application to the design of an intelligent package that achieves the desired goals while improving the consumer experience. The proposed packaging design allows its direct reuse, being advantageous for obtaining certifications and audit approval. In addition, the use of intelligent technologies allows effective control and correct use of the product.
Keywords: Sherry wines; holonic engineering; bottle; smart packaging; sustainable design; industrial design.
ANALISYS OF THE FRACTURE THOUGHNESS IN THE HEAT AFFECTED ZONE (HAZ) OF ONE HSLA STEEL
Authors: VISERAS PICO MANUEL , CARNERO MOYA MARIA DEL CARMEN , GONZALEZ PALMA RAFAEL ERNESTO , MUÑOZ RUBIO AURELIO
Published: September 2022

The original contribution of the experimental research described here is intended to ensure that the KIC fracture toughness in the heat affected zone (HAZ) of USITEN 355 0.5 Ni Grade 1 steel produces a CTOD (?) (Crack Tip Opening Displacement) within the standard values, making the steel compatible with the welding procedure used and the heat energy supplied, which is 2 kJ/mm, in order to confirm that the grain size braking mechanism carried out by the microalloying agents (V, Nb, Al) of the base metal are working as intended. A further aim is to ensure, as far as possible, a correlation between the welding parameters and the results obtained from the fracture tests, in such a way that, should the results of the tests be unsatisfactory, the appropriate solution can be applied to the weld so that the parameters that govern the fracture tests are acceptable. The work developed here is useful as a guide and reference for future research on fracture mechanics in microalloyed steels.
Keywords: HSLA, Fracture toughness, CTOD, HAZ, heat input energy, SMAW
THE GAPS IN EDUCATION FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN ENGINEERING AND ARCHITECTURE STUDIES IN SPAIN
Authors: Olaskoaga Larrauri Jon , Guerenabarrena Cortazar Leire , CILLERUELO CARRASCO ERNESTO
Published: September 2022

In recent years, several researches have quantified and assessed the degree of integration of Education for Sustainable Delevopment (ESD) in Spanish university studies of engineering and architecture. With respect to those researches, this article presents a multiple methodological approach that combines three different perspectives: a) an analysis of the attitudes of teachers towards ESD, b) an assessment of the effective application of ESD, based on the statements of the teachers, and c) an analysis of the presence of ESD in the teaching guides. By triangulation, these three approaches offer a realistic panorama of the current situation of the integration of sustainability in engineering studies. The evidence gathered in the article allows us to conclude that positive attitudes on the part of teachers are a necessary, but not sufficient, condition for the transition to ESD.
Key words: ESD, higher education, engineering and architecture studies, attitudes, teaching guides, faculty.
SEMI-AUTOMATED TREE SPECIES CLASSIFICATION BASED ON ROUGHNESS PARAMETERS USING AIRBORNE LIDAR DATA
Authors: NOVO GOMEZ ANA , GONZALEZ JORGE HIGINIO , COMESAÑA CEBRAL LINO JOSE , LORENZO CIMADEVILLA HENRIQUE , MARTINEZ SANCHEZ JOAQUIN
Published: September 2022

Automated tree species classification using high density airborne LiDAR data supports precise forest inventory. This work shows a method based on evaluating roughness descriptors from aerial LiDAR data to automatically classify tree species. The proposed method includes treetops detection, neighbouring distance analysis for selecting the interest points, 3D fit surface creation, evaluation of roughness parameters, and K-means clustering. Among the evaluated roughness parameters, Skewness (Rsk) and Kurtosis (Rku) show robust classification. A synthetic point cloud was generated to test the methodology in a mixed forest formed by three tree species, Pinus sp., Quercus sp., and Eucalyptus sp. The Overall Accuracy (OA) of the classification method was 80 % for Quercus sp., 100 % for Pinus sp. and 80.6 % for Eucalyptus sp. In addition, the methodology was tested in three study areas and the results demonstrate that roughness parameters can be used to individual tree species classification in a mixed temperate forest with an OA of 82% in study area 1, 93 % in study area 2 and 92 % in study area 3.
Keywords: aerial LiDAR, point cloud processing, tree species classification, spatial analysis, roughness parameters
INTEGRATION AND PERFORMANCE OF THE FOOD SUPPLY CHAINS AIMING THEIR CIRCULARITY
Authors: Camacho Vallejo José-Fernando , OROZCO CRESPO ERIK , SABLON COSSIO NEYFE , MACIAS  PRO MICHAEL ANIBAL
Published: September 2022

Nowadays, integration is vital for increasing the competitiveness of value chains, and together with the performance of their actors, they become basic elements for circularity through their processes and flows.
Most cancers carry a substantial deleterious load due to Hill-Robertson interference
Authors: Tilk Susanne , Tkachenko Svyatoslav , Curtis Christina , Petrov Dmitri A , McFarland Christopher D
Published: September 2022

Cancer genomes exhibit surprisingly weak signatures of negative selection (Martincorena et al., 2017; Weghorn, 2017). This may be because selective pressures are relaxed or because genome-wide linkage prevents deleterious mutations from being removed (Hill-Robertson interference; Hill and Robertson, 1966). By stratifying tumors by their genome-wide mutational burden, we observe negative selection (dN/dS ~ 0.56) in low mutational burden tumors, while remaining cancers exhibit dN/dS ratios ~1. This suggests that most tumors do not remove deleterious passengers. To buffer against deleterious passengers, tumors upregulate heat shock pathways as their mutational burden increases. Finally, evolutionary modeling finds that Hill-Robertson interference alone can reproduce patterns of attenuated selection and estimates the total fitness cost of passengers to be 46% per cell on average. Collectively, our findings suggest that the lack of observed negative selection in most tumors is not due to relaxed selective pressures, but rather the inability of selection to remove deleterious mutations in the presence of genome-wide linkage.
The skeletal muscle circadian clock regulates titin splicing through RBM20
Authors: Riley Lance A , Zhang Xiping , Douglas Collin M , Mijares Joseph M , Hammers David W , Wolff Christopher A , Wood Neil B , Olafson Hailey R , Du Ping , Labeit Siegfried , Previs Michael J , Wang Eric T , Esser Karyn A
Published: September 2022

Circadian rhythms are maintained by a cell-autonomous, transcriptional–translational feedback loop known as the molecular clock. While previous research suggests a role of the molecular clock in regulating skeletal muscle structure and function, no mechanisms have connected the molecular clock to sarcomere filaments. Utilizing inducible, skeletal muscle specific, Bmal1 knockout (iMSBmal1-/-) mice, we showed that knocking out skeletal muscle clock function alters titin isoform expression using RNAseq, liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry, and sodium dodecyl sulfate-vertical agarose gel electrophoresis. This alteration in titin’s spring length resulted in sarcomere length heterogeneity. We demonstrate the direct link between altered titin splicing and sarcomere length in vitro using U7 snRNPs that truncate the region of titin altered in iMSBmal1-/- muscle. We identified a mechanism whereby the skeletal muscle clock regulates titin isoform expression through transcriptional regulation of Rbm20, a potent splicing regulator of titin. Lastly, we used an environmental model of circadian rhythm disruption and identified significant downregulation of Rbm20 expression. Our findings demonstrate the importance of the skeletal muscle circadian clock in maintaining titin isoform through regulation of RBM20 expression. Because circadian rhythm disruption is a feature of many chronic diseases, our results highlight a novel pathway that could be targeted to maintain skeletal muscle structure and function in a range of pathologies.
Specific binding of Hsp27 and phosphorylated Tau mitigates abnormal Tau aggregation-induced pathology
Authors: Zhang Shengnan , Zhu Yi , Lu Jinxia , Liu Zhenying , Lobato Amanda G , Zeng Wen , Liu Jiaqi , Qiang Jiali , Zeng Shuyi , Zhang Yaoyang , Liu Cong , Liu Jun , He Zhuohao , Zhai R Grace , Li Dan
Published: September 2022

Amyloid aggregation of phosphorylated Tau (pTau) into neurofibrillary tangles is closely associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Several molecular chaperones have been reported to bind Tau and impede its pathological aggregation. Recent findings of elevated levels of Hsp27 in the brains of patients with AD suggested its important role in pTau pathology. However, the molecular mechanism of Hsp27 in pTau aggregation remains poorly understood. Here, we show that Hsp27 partially co-localizes with pTau tangles in the brains of patients with AD. Notably, phosphorylation of Tau by microtubule affinity regulating kinase 2 (MARK2), dramatically enhances the binding affinity of Hsp27 to Tau. Moreover, Hsp27 efficiently prevents pTau fibrillation in vitro and mitigates neuropathology of pTau aggregation in a Drosophila tauopathy model. Further mechanistic study reveals that Hsp27 employs its N-terminal domain to directly interact with multiple phosphorylation sites of pTau for specific binding. Our work provides the structural basis for the specific recognition of Hsp27 to pathogenic pTau, and highlights the important role of Hsp27 in preventing abnormal aggregation and pathology of pTau in AD.
Plant traits and environment: floating leaf blade production and turnover of Nymphoides peltata (S.G. Gmel.) O. Kuntze (Menyanthaceae)
Authors: Klok Peter F. , van der Velde Gerard
Published: September 2022

Background

Nymphaeid macrophytes, rooting in the sediment of water bodies and characterized by floating leaves, play an important role in wetland ecosystems. The present research deals with the effects of limited space, limited nutrient availability, water temperature and an unexpected inundation on the production, turnover and plasticity of floating leaves of the globally widespread species Nymphoides peltata (Fringed waterlily).

Methods

The effects of these environmental conditions were studied in two plots in outdoor concrete tanks (CT1, CT2, mesocosms simulating occurrence in small ponds) and in two plots in the floodplain oxbow lake Bemmelse Strang (BS1, BS2). Plot CT1 was situated in a stand coexisting with helophytes, plot CT2 in a monospecific stand, plot BS1 in the center and plot BS2 at the open water border of a monospecific stand. All floating leaf blades within the plots were marked at appearance at the water surface and subsequently length, width and damage of each leaf and maximum and minimum water temperatures were measured bi-weekly. Area and biomass of leaf blades were calculated based on leaf length and width and were used to calculate turnover rates and production.

Results

The growth period started in May and ended mid-October with continuous production of floating leaves during nearly the whole vegetation period. In the tanks the water level was very stable, but the lake underwent an inundation by river water, causing a sudden loss of existing leaves. Considering environmental conditions and based on the assumed ranking from low to high nutrient availability, the ranking of the plots was CT1, CT2, BS1, BS2. This order was found for maximum leaf life span and maximum leaf length, and the reverse order was found for number of leaves, new leaves per day and duration of the vegetation period. Turnover rates appeared to be relatively similar for plots CT1, CT2 and BS1, but for the deeper border plot BS2 lower ratios were found. These results indicate that increased enclosure with expected nutrient limitation causes (1) the production of high numbers of small leaves with larger totals for leaf area and biomass, (2) a shift towards increased sexual reproduction by the production of more flowering stem leaves.
Association of military-specific reaction time performance with physical fitness and visual skills
Authors: Janicijevic Danica , Miras-Moreno Sergio , Pérez Castilla Alejandro , Vera Jesus , Redondo Beatriz , Jiménez Raimundo , García-Ramos Amador
Published: September 2022

Background

The aim of the present study was to explore whether military-specific reaction time (RT) test performance is affected by individuals’ physical and visual skills.

Method

In a single testing session, the military-specific Simple and Go, No-Go RT, aerobic power (20-m Multistage Shuttle Run test), maximal upper- and lower-body mechanical capacities (bench press and squat against different loads), and visual skills (multiple object tracking and dynamic visual acuity) of 30 young men (15 active-duty military personnel and 15 sport science students) were evaluated.

Results

The main findings revealed that the Simple RT and Go, No-Go RT presented (1) with aerobic power non-significant small correlations in military personnel (r = −0.39 and −0.35, respectively) and non-significant negligible correlations in sport science students (r = −0.10 and 0.06, respectively), (2) inconsistent and generally non-significant correlations with the maximal mechanical capacities of the upper- and lower-body muscles (r range = −0.10, 0.67 and −0.27, 0.48, respectively), (3) non-significant correlations with visual skills (r magnitude ≥ 0.58) with the only exception of the Go, No-Go RT that was significantly correlated to all visual variables in the group of students (i.e., students who achieved better results during visual tests had shorter RT; r magnitude ≥ 0.58), and (4) none of the physical and visual variables significantly predicted the Simple RT or Go, No-Go RT.

Conclusion

Altogether, these results indicate that military-specific RT performance is generally independent of physical and visual skills in both military personnel and active university students.
A Scoping Review of Instruments for Measuring Problem-Solving Ability in Simulation Nursing Education in Korea: A Focus on Process Behavior Survey
Authors: Lim Ancho , Song Youngshin
Published: September 2022

Purpose: This scoping review focused on the application of simulation education for nursing college students and analyzed studies measuring problem-solving ability to present an overview of research trends and future directions. Methods: The scoping review followed the review guideline. The study was conducted independently by two reviewers, who searched the literature through electronic databases (DBpia, KISS, Science on, RISS, and Google Scholar). Results: In total, 32 studies were included in the final analysis, and each study was analyzed according to the following domains: general characteristics, simulation-related characteristics, and instrument-related characteristics. Simulation-based learning was primarily conducted for third- and fourth-year nursing students using various scenarios and high-fidelity simulators. However, the effect of simulation education on problem-solving ability was somewhat inconsistent, and some studies reported different names of tools and numbers of items by sub-area from the original instruments. Conclusion: It is necessary to critically reflect upon whether “Process Behavior Survey” tool can be used for simulation education. Therefore, conceptual analysis or instrument development research is needed in the future to accurately measure the problem-solving process or problem-solving ability.
Influences of Type D Personality, Depression, and Stress on Quality of Life in Migraine Patients
Authors: Jo Eunhee , Lee Su-Jin , Jo Jung-Hwa , Oh Sun-Young
Published: September 2022

Purpose: This study investigated the effects of type D personality, depression and stress on quality of life in migraine patients and aimed to identify factors that affected their quality of life. Methods: In this descriptive study, the participants were 132 outpatients who were diagnosed with migraine at the Department of Neurology at J National University Hospital. The data were collected from June 20 to December 30, 2021, and analyzed using descriptive statistics, the independent t-test, the x2 test, one-way analysis of variance, the Scheffé test, Pearson correlation coefficients, and multiple regression. Results: The factors affecting quality of life in migraine patients were found to be type D personality (β=.58 p<.001) and depression (β=-.30 p<.001), and the explanatory power of the model was 53.0% (F=22.07, p<.001). Conclusion: It is necessary to develop a strategy for improving the quality of life for migraine patients that would consist of first identifying patients with type D personality and then offering them an intervention that addresses both physical symptoms and psychological health issues, such as depression.
Dynamic Compression Plate versus Locking Compression Plate Fixation in Adult Forearm Fractures: A Prospective Interventional Study
Authors: Shevate Ishan , Patil Gaurav Lalasaheb , Salunkhe Rahul , Deshmukh Ashwin , Khandge Ashwinkumar Vasant , Yadav Siddharth , Sukrethan Sayooj
Published: September 2022

Introduction: Injuries resulting from traffic accidents, industrial accidents, natural disasters, and assault are the cause of most fractures of the forearm and it is very important to regain the length, apposition, axial alignment, and rotational alignment of the radius and ulna while treating diaphyseal fractures to achieve a good range of motion. In such cases, open reduction and internal fixation are recommended. Aim: To determine the effectiveness of Locking Compression Plates (LCP) and Dynamic Compression Plates (DCP) in treating adult forearm fractures. Materials and Methods: A prospective interventional study was conducted from September 2020 to September 2021 in which 30 patients with both bone forearm fractures underwent open reduction and internal fixation with a Locking Compression Plate(n=15) or a Dynamic Compression Plate(n=15) at the Dr.D.Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune, India. For each LCP and DCP operated patient, radiographic findings regarding fracture union and functional outcomes regarding elbow joint range of motion was evaluated. Appropriate parametric tests (Chi-square test, Independent t-test) were conducted to identify significant differences in functional outcomes between the two interventions. Results: Out of total, 13 patients (86.7%) each who underwent both the DCP and LCP fixation had excellent outcomes, though the results were not significant according to Anderson LD et al., grading system. Although it was statistically insignificant (p-value= 0.18), patients who received LCP took less time to heal their fractures than those who received DCP. There was no significant difference between patients treated with DCP and those treated with LCP when it comes to achieving a complete range of motion (p-value=0.99). Conclusion: In terms of functional outcome, both the patient groups who were operated on with DCP as well as LCP had no significant difference. Proper preoperative planning, good patient care, proper surgical technique with minimal adjacent soft tissue damage, strict aseptic conditions, proper follow-up, and rehabilitation along with patient education are all required for good functional outcomes.
Quarantine of Travellers during the Initial Phase of the COVID-19 Pandemic- Experience from a Rural Setting in Kerala, India
Authors: Pinheiro Carol , Thuruthiyath Lakshmi Rajeev , Philip Sairu , Viswabhadran Anuja Munduvadackal , Sivadasan Amrutha Mudikunnath
Published: September 2022

Introduction: Quarantine of travellers was one of the major public health strategies enforced by the state to curb the transmission of the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in the initial phases. Proper quarantine requires commitment from the person, support, and monitoring from the public health system. Aim: To understand the process, practices, perceptions, and difficulties of quarantined persons during the initial phase of the Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) in a panchayat in Alappuzha, Kerala, India. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from May to September 2020 using a semi-structured questionnaire through telephonic interview among quarantined individuals in a panchayat in Alappuzha, Kerala. Quarantine practices, the process of quarantine, perceptions, and difficulties faced were explored to understand their viewpoint. The perceptions of the healthcare providers were also enquired qualitatively. The data collected was entered in Microsoft Excel and statistical analysis was done using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27 (SPSS Inc, Chicago, USA). Results: Out of the 182 quarantined individuals, 152 were in home quarantine of which 89 (58.6%) observed strict room quarantine and 132 (72.5%) had a quarantine period of more than 14 days which was the guideline then. Majority were contacted by the health staff during the period; however, 28% were not satisfied with the information that was conveyed to them. Majority adhered to infection control guidelines during quarantine. Almost half (46.7%) of them reported emotional problems during quarantine of which the major issues were loneliness and lack of social contact. Almost one-third of them had experienced stigma and rejection from people in the neighbourhood. Conclusion: Quarantine to be used effectively as a public health measure requires that the concerns and problems should also be taken care of. Adequate information regarding the need and process of quarantine should be provided and there should be a system to cater to the emotional concerns of the persons. Awareness regarding the purpose and role of quarantine among the general public will enable quarantine to be used as a powerful tool for disease control in the future.
Distance between unitary orbits in C∗-algebras with stable rank one and real rank zero
Authors:   Department of Mathematics, Univ. of Toronto, Toronto, M5S 2E4, Canada, Elliott George A. , Liu Zhichao ,   School of Mathematical Sciences, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, 116024, China
Published: September 2022

Let A be a C∗-algebra with stable rank one and real rank zero. In this paper, it is shown that the usual distance dU defined on the approximate unitary equivalence classes (or unitary orbits) of the positive elements in A is equal to the distance dW defined on morphisms from Cuntz semigroup of C0(0,1] to the Cuntz semigrout of A.
Completely bounded subcontexts of a Morita context of unital C∗-algebras
Authors:   Department of Mathematics and Statistics, California State University Long Beach, 1250 Bellflower Boulevard, Long Beach, 90840, U.S.A., McCormick Kathryn
Published: September 2022

We answer a question of Blecher--Muhly--Paulsen, identifying topological invariants for cb Morita equivalences of holomorphic cross-section algebras. Previously, given a certain subcontext of a Morita context of n-homogeneous C∗-algebras whose spectrum T is an annulus, the norm of a lifting of 1A of a given subalgebra A was estimated by conformal and bundle invariants. We give a generalization in which T is a bordered Riemann surface. In doing so, we develop a sufficient criterion for when a unital completely bounded Morita equivalence can be factored into a similarity and a strong Morita equivalence.
The radius of comparison of the tensor product of a C∗-algebra with C(X)
Authors:   School of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, 14155-6619, Iran, Asadi Mohammad B. , Asadi-Vasfi M. Ali ,   School of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, 14155-6619, Iran
Published: September 2022

Let X be a compact metric space, let A be a unital AH-algebra with large matrix sizes, and let B be a stably finite unital C∗-algebra. Then we give a lower bound for the radius of comparison of C(X)⊗B and prove that the dimension-rank ratio satisfies drr(A)=drr(C(X)⊗A). We also give a class of unital AH-algebras A with rc(C(X)⊗A)=rc(A). We further give a class of stably finite exact Z-stable unital C∗-algebras with nonzero radius of comparison.
On the isometrisability of group representations on p-spaces
Authors:   Department of Mathematics, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, 52900, Israel, Gerasimova Maria , Thom Andreas ,   Institut fuer Geometrie, TU Dresden, Dresden, 01069, Germany
Published: September 2022

In this note we consider a p-isometrisability property of discrete groups. If p=2 this property is equivalent to the well-studied notion of unitarisability. We prove that amenable groups are p-isometrisable for all p∈(1,∞). Conversely, we show that every group containing a non-abelian free subgroup is not p-isometrisable for any p∈(1,∞). We also discuss some open questions and possible relations of p-isometrisability with the recently introduced Littlewood exponent Lit(Γ).
C∗-Algebraic spectral sets, twisted groupoids and operators
Authors:   Departmento de Matematicas, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile, Mantoiu Marius
Published: September 2022

We treat spectral problems by twisted groupoid methods. To Hausdorff locally compact groupoids endowed with a continuous 2-cocycle one associates the reduced twisted groupoid C∗-algebra. Elements (or multipliers) of this algebra admit natural Hilbert space representations. We show the relevance of the orbit closure structure of the unit space of the groupoid in dealing with spectra, norms, numerical ranges and ε-pseudospectra of the resulting operators. As an example, we treat a class of pseudo-differential operators introduced recently, associated to group actions. We also prove a decomposition principle for bounded operators connected to groupoids, showing that several relevant spectral quantities of these operators coincide with those of certain non-invariant restrictions. This is applied to Toeplitz-like operators with variable coefficients and to band dominated operators on discrete metric spaces.
Separable boundaries for nonhyperbolic groups
Authors:   Department of Mathematics, University of Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica 1, Roma, 00133, Italy, Bassi Jacopo , Radulescu Florin ,   Department of Mathematics, University of Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica 1, Roma, 00133, Italy and Institute of Mathematics ``Simion Stoilow'' of the Romanian Academy of Sciences, Bucharest, Romania
Published: September 2022

We exhibit examples of separable boundaries for nonhyperbolic groups. The main ingredient is the alignment property introduced by Furman in the study of rigidity properties of discrete subgroups of algebraic groups.
Rokhlin dimension and equivariant bundles
Authors:   Department of Mathematics, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Bhopal, Bhopal Bypass Road, Bhauri, Bhopal 462 066, Madhya Pradesh, India, Vaidyanathan Prahlad
Published: September 2022

Given an action of a compact group on a complex vector bundle, there is an induced action of the group on the associated Cuntz--Pimsner algebra. We determine conditions under which this action has finite Rokhlin dimension.
Determinants of Workplace Deviant Behaviours among Non-academic Staff in Universities in South-South Nigeria
Authors: Tarurhor Emmanuel Mitaire , Opatayo Kikelomo Titilayo
Published: September 2022

This paper studied the determinants of workplace deviant behaviours (WDB) among non-academic staff in universities in South-South Nigeria. Three hundred (300) non-academic staff were drawn equally from the six universities in the six states that make up the South-South region of Nigeria. Data were generated from two hundred and nineteen (219) questionnaires received from the respondents without errors and analyzed using Pearson's Product Moment Correlation. The results found that vandalism, manipulation of records, abuse of office, wastage of office resources, leaving early from work, favouritism, gossiping, and aggression towards colleagues were prominently workplace deviant behaviour. In addition, the study established that the individual-related factors that cause these deviant behaviours are job stress, personality traits, emotional intelligence and moral deviation, while interpersonal factors are group norms and group behaviours. In the same vein, the organizational factors include workplace religiousity, workplace support, job security, career management, and HR practices. The study concludes that a statistically significant relationship exists between the two major categories of workplace deviant behaviours, interpersonal and organizational factors responsible for deviant behaviours practiced among non-academic staff in universities in South-South Nigeria. The study recommends that university management should set up a committee to strictly address and combat the identified deviant behaviours that are commonly practiced among her non-academic staff in the institution.
Taxonomic Documentation and Statistical Analysis of Soil Mycoflora of Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Maharashtra, India
Authors: Dubey Rashmi , Pandey Amit Diwakar
Published: September 2022

Aims: The present paper deals with documentation of diversity and analysis of ecological aspects of soil microfungal flora of Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP).

Study Design: The study area was divided into five zones, defined over span of three ranges and 10% peripheral area.

Place and Duration of Study: SGNP, Maharashtra, India between September 2016 and September 2020.

Methodology: A total of 43 soil samples were collected from 5 zones. Microscopic and molecular methods were used for identification of species. We examine dissimilarity in species composition by pairwise Jaccard Dissimilarity Index. We examine diversity of microfungi using diversity indices of Gini-Simpson’s and Shannon’s, true diversity (Shannon’s effective number of species) and equitability of species with Pielou’s evenness index.

Results: The study resulted in a total of 77 isolates of 77 soil fungi obtained from 43 soil samples. A total of 36 species were documented under 15 genera. Aspergillus was dominant genus with 16 species, whereas Aspergillus niger was dominant species representing maximum 12 isolates. Pairwise Jaccard Dissimilarity Index was found to be above 66% in all cases, with only one species common in all the zones. In diversity indices, Gini-Simpson’s was 0.9347, and Shannon’s, was 3.1450. Pielou’s evenness index was 0.8776, causing true diversity, calculated as effective number of species (23), to be less than observed species richness (36).

Conclusion: Thus, based on systematics and statistical analysis, it can be concluded that SGNP exhibits rich diversity of soil microfungi.
Comparative Morpho-Anatomical Investigation of Leaves of Triumfetta tomentosa Boj. and Triumfetta rhomboidea Jacq.
Authors: Imo U. Robert, , Sunday M. Sam, , Joseph E. Okon,
Published: September 2022

The plant species Triumfetta tomentosa Boj. and Triumfetta rhomboidea Jacq using Standard procedures were investigated on morphological characters. The morphological assessment of the species revealed great similarities in their habit, indumentum, nature and type of stem and leaf apices. The differences were seen in their habitat and the number of flowers in the racemose inflorescence. In the foliar anatomy of the species, anisocytic stomata type, the presence of stellate trichomes on both surfaces and the presence of calcium crystals were common in both species. The differences existed in the amphistomatic distribution in T. rhomboidea and hypostomatic distribution in T. tomentosa. The number, length and width of the stomata, stomata pore and guard cells, the number, length and width of the epidermal cells of and the length of trichomes varied greatly in both species. A combination of morphological and anatomical data alongside others bring about authentication in the delimitation of taxa.
Perception of Insecticides Usage and Hazard in Some Selected Communities in Zuru Local Government Area of Kebbi State, Nigeria
Authors: A. Shindi H. , Hamisu S. , P. Aiki I. , S. Senchi D. , Dabo M. , B. Unashi Y. , M. Warah M.
Published: September 2022

This study assesses the farmer’s perception of insecticides usage and hazard of some communities in Zuru Local Government Area. The specific objectives were to describe socio-economic characteristics of respondents such as age and gender, determine the awareness of the insecticides usage, problems of insecticide, and to determine present and safety of insecticides application in the study area. Simple random sampling technique was used in selecting sampled areas. Data were collected with the aid of a structured questionnaire with open and ended questions. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Result revealed that 99 percent respondents were men, high proportion of (48 percent) respondents were within the age range of 20–39 years, 40 percent of the respondents had family size of 6-10 persons, 65 percent of the respondents earned N401, 000 - N800, 000, 64 percent had <1ha of farm size, high proportion of them 36 percent inherited their farm lands. Results further revealed that 100 percent of the respondents are aware about insecticides; about 67 percent use insecticides in their farm to control insects, 52 percent get their information from friends. Results also revealed that 99 percent of the respondents used insecticides before and 73 percent used insecticides only to control insects, about 56 percent used systemic insecticides and 75 percent used sprayers to apply. Result shows that 75 percent of respondents are aware of insecticides hazard, a high proportion of 45 percent got their information from Extension Agents, 62 percent are aware of the health implication of insecticides, while 62 percent are aware of the negative effect of insecticides on health. It was concluded that Majority of the farmers are aware about insecticides usage and health hazards. It is recommended that farmers should be more sensitized about the danger of insecticides usage without proper handling and they should always use protective cloth during spray to avoid body contact.
Effect of General Anesthesia on Postoperative Cognitive Function in Patients Over 60 Years Old
Authors: Kimiaei-Asadi Hosein , Manouchehrian Nahid , Moradveisi Latif
Published: September 2022

Background: Postoperative cognitive dysfunction is one of the complications of surgery and general anesthesia (GA), causing short- and long-term mental and behavioral disabilities in patients. Such a disorder, especially in elderly patients, can lead to learning disabilities and memory impairment. Due to the importance of this subject, the present study aimed to assess the effects of GA on postoperative cognitive functions in patients over 60 years old who were candidates for surgery and anesthesia.

Methods: This descriptive-analytical clinical trial was performed on 45 patients over 60 years of age who were candidates for surgery under GA in Besat Hospital in Hamadan, Iran. Patients' memory function was measured by the Wechsler Memory Scale before the surgery and three days after the surgery. Finally, cognitive test scores pre- and post-anesthesia were compared, and the effect of different factors on them was evaluated.

Results: As evidenced by the results, the mean scores of general information, mental control, and word association subtests increased significantly after the surgery (P<0.05). Furthermore, the values ​​related to the total score, the balanced score, and also the memory coefficient demonstrated a significant elevation after the surgery (P <0.05).

Conclusion: It seems that GA might exert neurotoxic or neuroprotective effects depending on the used dosage and the duration of the technique. Moreover, preoperative stress and disease severity may adversely affect patients' ability to answer memory questions.
Evaluating the Prophylactic Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects of Galantamine Hydrobromide through α-7 Nicotinic Receptor on Lithium Carbonate Induced Thyroid Dysfunction in Rats
Authors: M. Elhabashy Marwa , Kashef. Shaimaa Mostafa , AbuoHashish Norhan Ahmed , A.Mahmoud Heba , Fathi Fleur
Published: September 2022

Galantamine hydrobromide, an FDA-approved drug for Alzheimer’s, has recently revealed anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antiapoptotic effects that can be subjected for further indications other that neurodegenerative diseases. Despite of lithium carbonate’s effectiveness in psychiatry, it has multiple organ toxic effects and thyroid dysfunction is one of the most prevalent adverse effects of lithium therapy, however, the precise etiology is still ambiguous. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the possible prophylactic antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiapoptotic effects of galantamine hydrobromide, alone or in combination with vitamin E against lithium induced thyroid dysfunction in rats. This experiment was performed on 40 male Wistar albino rats divided randomly into 5 groups. Group 1 was control group. Group 2 received lithium alone. Group 3 received lithium and galantamine hydrobromide. Group 4 received lithium and vitamin E. Group 5 received lithium, galantamine hydrobromide and vitamin E. Blood was collected to evaluate thyroid function (triiodothyronine T3, thyroxin T4, thyroid stimulating hormones (TSH levels), and assess levels of total antioxidant capacity (TAC), Malondialdehyde (MDA), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα). Then, both lobes of thyroid glands were dissected and processed for histopathological changes and immunohistochemical expression of (Caspase-3). The results of the study showed that combined treatment of galantamine hydrobromide and vitamin E provide marked prophylactic anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-apoptotic effects against lithium induced thyroid toxicity. However, galantamine alone was more effective than vitamin E.
Management of Geriatric Patients in Clinical Settings Comorbid with Psychiatric Disorders: A KAP Study
Authors: Tomar Arushi , Gupta Ritu , Ahsan Iram , Puri Nidhi , Ashraf Asifa , Varshney Shivangi
Published: September 2022

Background and Objectives: Comorbidity with psychiatric disorders raises health risks and has an impact on the condition, treatment and prognosis of elderly patients, necessitating holistic dental care for this age group. Thus, present study was conducted to assess knowledge, attitude, practice and awareness of psychiatric disorders and their relation to oral health amongst dental undergraduates, interns, postgraduate students and faculties treating geriatric patients.

Materials and Methods: A cross -sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted among 300 dental students and faculties from various departments. The questionnaire was developed and subsequent face validation was obtained from dental students followed by content validation from a medical expert and four dental experts which was then utilized to assess knowledge, attitude and practice amongst dental health practitioners and students for managing geriatric patients comorbid with psychiatric disorders.

Results: Of the total study participants, majority of faculties with clinical practice (86.0%]. had more knowledge regarding systemic disorders which can lead to psychiatric diseases in geriatric patients.66% of BDS interns and 40% of faculties evaluate the mental status of the geriatrics before commencing dental treatment. 64.9% of faculties and 56.4% interns believed in shared decision making for dentist patient relationship whereas remaining participants believed in dentist-based decision making which was found to be statistically significant (<0.001).

Conclusion: More evidence and research in this field is increasingly important and required to improve evidence-based clinical practice and therapy for geriatric patients.
Evaluating the Application of Chronic Heart Failure Therapies and Developing Treatments in Individuals With Recent Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Harrington Josephine , Petrie Mark C. , Anker Stefan D. , Bhatt Deepak L. , Jones W. Schuyler , Udell Jacob A. , Hernandez Adrian F. , Butler Javed
Published: August 2022

Importance

Despite advances in cardiac care, patients remain at a high risk of death and the development of heart failure (HF) following myocardial infarction (MI). These risks are highest in patients with reduced ejection fraction (EF) or signs of HF immediately after MI. Drugs to mitigate these risks have been identified through the systematic evaluation of therapies with proven efficacy in patients with HF and reduced EF (HFrEF).

Observations

Although landmark studies in patients with HFrEF consistently exclude patients with recent MI, dedicated post-MI trials of these drugs have led to multiple therapies with proven benefit in these patients. However, not all therapies with proven efficacy in patients with chronic HF have been shown to provide benefit in the post-MI population, as recently evidenced by the discrepant results between chronic HF and post-MI trials of sacubitril-valsartan. Similarly, multiple trials of early and aggressive use of therapies effective in chronic heart failure immediately post-MI failed to demonstrate benefit or were associated with harm, emphasizing the vulnerability of the post-MI population.

Conclusions and Relevance

Trials of patients at high risk of HF following MI have emphasized the differences between the post-MI and HFrEF populations and the necessity for dedicated trials in the post-MI population. This review summarizes trials studying the use of these therapies for at-risk patients following MI from therapies used in patients with HFrEF and exploring new potential therapies for this high-risk population.
Throat Cancer—An Oral History
Authors: Waters Daniel James
Published: September 2022

This essay describes the physician-turned-patient experience of standing up to cancer by lying down.
Biosynthetic and Unfolded Protein Nanocarriers for Chemotherapeutic Drugs in Oral Cancers: Improved Bioavailability and Safety of Chemotherapeutics
Authors: Su Juanjuan , Sun Qiannan , Lin Shen , Lu Shuang , Zhang Qian , Li Yuanxin , Li Bo , Sun Yao , Liu Kai , Zhang Hongjie , Wang Fan , Li Jingjing , Wei Yan
Published: September 2022

Conventional nanocarriers for oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) chemotherapy are greatly limited due to undesired adverse effects and low bioavailability. As an FDA‐approved protein nanocarrier, i.e., human serum albumin (HSA), the folded conformation limits its versatility for loading OSCC chemotherapeutics with different molecular structures. Here, a new type of biosynthetic and unfolded protein nanocarrier is developed, which shows outstanding efficiency for loading and delivering a series of chemotherapeutic agents, including chlormethine, docetaxel, and pingyangmycin. Moreover, all the nanoformulated drugs exhibit rather prolonged half‐lives as evidenced by sustained release of the payloads for up to 5 days. In stark contrast to polymeric micelles and liposomes, in this system the loading efficiency is increased 3–4 times and the corresponding half‐life is even extended one order of magnitude. Enhanced antitumor effects in rat OSCC models are realized. Additionally, off‐target side effects such as liver and kidney toxicity and immunogenicity are significantly mitigated with the nanomedications. Thus, this versatile formulation strategy boosts the efficacy, bioavailability, and safety of chemotherapeutics in OSCC therapy, and promisingly enables combined chemotherapy in comprehensive treatment for OSCC.
Surface Segregation‐Induced Superwetting Separation Membranes with Hierarchical Surface Structures and Internalized Gel Networks
Authors: Bai Zhongxiang , Jia Kun , Zhang Shuai , Lin Guo , Huang Yumin , Liu Xiaobo
Published: September 2022

The porous polymeric membranes prepared by conventional nonsolvent‐induced phase separation (NIPS) suffer from notorious fouling pollution during oil/water separation. Herein, an improved one‐step NIPS strategy is proposed to fabricate anti‐fouling polyethersulfone (PES) based membranes that bear hierarchically spherical structures on the interface and an internalized gel network. More specifically, the hydrogen bonding between hydrophilic additives of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and tannic acid (TA), as well as Fe3+‐TA coordination interaction are orchestrated to modulate their surface segregation behaviors during NIPS, leading to in situ generation of the interfacial assembled nanospheres and embedded gel networks in the PES matrix. Thanks to the synergistic effect of these dual antifouling barriers, the optimized membrane exhibits super‐hydrophilic/underwater super‐oleophobic properties, and displays high efficiency as well as good recyclability in separating surfactant stabilized oil‐in‐water emulsions. In addition, this improved NIPS methodology allows dip coating of various porous substrates to separate diverse oil/water mixtures, which also exhibits good anti‐fouling ability. Basically, this study will provide new insights for design of anti‐pollution oil/water separation materials by the phase inversion method.