bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of High-Resolution Satellite-Derived Solar Radiation Data for PV Performance Simulation in East Africa
Authors: Palmer Diane , Blanchard Richard
Published: March 2021

Access to reliable, clean, modern cooking enhances life chances. One option is photovoltaic cooking systems. Accurate solar data is needed to ascertain to what extent these can satisfy the needs of local people. This paper investigates how to choose the most accurate satellite derived solar irradiance database for use in Africa. This is necessary because there is a general shortage of ground measurements for Africa. The solar data is needed to model the output of solar cooking systems, for instance, a solar panel, battery and electric pressure cooker. Four easily accessible satellite databases are validated against ground measurements using a range of statistical tests. Results demonstrate the impact of the mathematical measure used and the phenomenon of balancing errors. Fitting of the satellite model to appropriate climate zone and/or nearby measurements improves accuracy, as does higher spatial and temporal resolution of input parameters. That said, all the four databases reviewed were found to be suitable for simulating PV yield in East Africa.
An Update on the Phyto-potential of Allium cepa and Allium sativum
Authors: Gupta Rubi , Kaushik Prashant
Published: March 2021

Garlic and onion are either cooked like a vegetable because of their green leaves or are also used as a condiment. Many scientific studies affirm the positives of both for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial potential. Moreover, garlic and onion are regularly employed to treat cardiovascular illnesses, strokes, atherosclerosis, hypertension, hyperlipidemias, and thrombosis, and are also proved effective against Alzheimer's, diabetes, and cancers. Here we have compiled a piece of information regarding the compounds present in garlic and onion along with their pharmacological properties. Although much more studies are required to refine the utilization and enhance garlic and medicine's effectiveness. We hope this work will provide helpful information regarding their pharmacological aspects.
The Economic Impact of the SARS-COV-2 (COVID-19) Pandemic in Spain
Authors: Pinilla Jaime , Barber Patricia , Vallejo-Torres Laura , Rodríguez-Mireles Silvia , López-Valcárcel G. Beatriz González , Serra-Majem LLuis
Published: March 2021

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has hit the Spanish economy hard. The result is an unprecedented economic and social crisis due to uncertainty about the remedy, and due to the socio-economic effects on people’s lives. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of the macro-economic impact of COVID-19 in 2020, using the principal indicators of the Spanish economic and productive model. National statistics were examined in the search for impacts or anomalies occurring since the beginning of the pandemic. To estimate the strength of the impact on each of the indicators analysed, we used Bayesian structural time series. Results: In 2020, the cumulative impact on the Gross Domestic Product was of -11.41% [95% credible interval: -13.46; -9.29]. The indicator for Business Turnover fell by -9.37% [-12.71; -6.07]. The reduction in business activity was related to the sharp fall in demand. The Spanish employment market was strongly affected; our estimates showed a cumulative increase of 11.9% [4.27; 19.45] in the rate of unemployment during 2020. The autonomous communities which are economically the most heavily dependent on the services sector were those which recorded the worst indicators. Conclusions: Our estimates portray a dramatic situation in our country, and show all too clearly the fragility of a productive system which has to make the behavioural changes that are necessary to confront the COVID-19 pandemic.
Platelet-Rich Fibrin Membrane for Pterygium Surgery: A Case Report, Literature Review and Feasibility Assessment
Authors: Camacho Carolina , Leon-Rojas Jose Eduardo
Published: March 2021

Pterygium is a common ocular disease caused by abnormal cellular proliferation leading to abnormal fibrovascular growth of the conjunctiva. The main treatment is surgical removal; however, despite the improvement of surgical techniques and development of adjuvant therapies, postoperative recurrence, which can be as high as 89%, remains a challenge. Currently, pterygium excision with conjunctival autograft remains the preferred surgical technique to decrease recurrence, especially when combined with ciclosporin eye drops. Nevertheless, there is no gold standard surgical technique to prevent pterygium recurrence. Therefore, this review aims to assess the safety, effectiveness and, applicability of platelet-rich fibrin membrane for primary pterygium surgery and assess its possible benefits in resource-limited settings.
Machine Learning Techniques of Contact Aware Communication System: A Comprehensive Overview
Authors: Shahzad Mohsin , Hussain Kashif , Qureshi Muhammad Ali , Zahoor Fareeha
Published: March 2021

Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial Intelligence(AI) have revolutionized almost all fields that are linked to the acquisition of intelligent behavior in the real world. It is an attractive alternative for a researcher of artificial intelligence. Contrary to rule-based programming, ML is an algorithmic approach in which learning comes from existing data. The more data we have these computer systems look at, we say we’re ‘training’ the computer system, and as the computers begin to identify patterns in the data, identify abnormalities in the data from these abnormalities we improve the system architect according to the requirement. This article introduces the use of comprehensive concepts of machine learning, in general, particular, and their potential applications in communications. Furthermore, the current state and futuristic potentials of enabling universal communication with implications of machine learning methods have been explained. In this review paper, we offer a comprehensive talk on distinctive methods/techniques of information analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML) moved forward the contact aware communication system.
Strength of Religious Faith in Peruvian Adolescents and Adults: Psychometric Evidence from the Long and Short Version of the Santa Clara Strength of Religious Faith Questionnaire in Spanish
Authors: Caycho-Rodríguez Tomás , Vilca Lindsey W. , Plante Thomas G. , Vivanco-Vidal Andrea , Saroli-Araníbar Daniela , Carbajal-León Carlos , Peña-Calero Brian Norman , White Michael
Published: March 2021

The aim of this study was to evaluate the psychometric evidence of the original and brief version of the Santa Clara Strength of Religious Faith Questionnaire (SCSRFQ) in Spanish in a sample of 245 Peruvian adolescents and adults (mean age = 21.04 years, SD = 3.07, 47.8% male and 52.2% female), selected by non-probabilistic convenience sampling. Additionally, the Coronavirus Anxiety Scale and the Satisfaction with Life Scale were applied. Confirmatory Factor Analysis, internal consistency reliability methods, hierarchical sequence of variance models and Graded Response Model were used. Results indicate that both versions of the SCSRFQ showed robust psychometric properties: adequate unidimensional structure, adequate difficulty and discrimination parameters, and significant relationships with the measures of fear of COVID-19 and satisfaction with life. The original version of the SCSRFQ showed evidence of strict measurement invariance by gender and age; whereas the short version showed strict invariance by gender and configural invariance by age. Both versions showed acceptable reliability indices. In conclusion, the original and brief versions of the SCSRFQ show evidence of psychometric indicators that support their use to assess the strength of religious faith
Howland Forest, ME, USA: Multi-Gas Flux Record (CO2, CH4, N2O) Establishes New Forest Products Linked to Social Cost of Emission in Contrast to Carbon Limited Sequestration Proxies
Authors: Marino Bruno D , Bautista Nahuel , Rousseaux Brandt
Published: March 2021

Forest carbon sequestration is a widely accepted natural climate solution, however, methods to determine net carbon offsets are limited to commercial carbon proxies and CO2 eddy covariance research. Non-CO2 greenhouse gases (GHG) (e.g., CH4, N2O) receive less attention in the context of forests, in part, due to emphasis on CO2 and the operational requirements and cost for three-gas eddy covariance platforms. In this study, Howland forest flux tower (CO2, CH4) and soil flux data (CO2, CH4, N2O), representing net emission reductions, are linked to their respective social costs to estimate commercial revenue if sold as a GHG social cost forest offset product (GHG-SCF). Estimated annual revenue for GHG-SCF products, applicable to realization of a Green New Deal, range from 120,000 covering the site area of 557 acres in 2021, to 12,000,000 for extrapolation to 40,000 acres in 2040, assuming a 3% discount rate. The Howland Forest CO2 flux record for two adjacent towers is compared to California Air Resources Board forest carbon proxy data for compliance sequestration offsets, the only project site where these approaches overlap. Overcrediting, incomplete carbon accounting with annual errors of up to 2,256%, inadequate third-party verification, and limited application to non-CO2 GHG’s are established. In contrast, direct measurement of one or more GHG’s offers new forest products and revenue incentives to restore and conserve forests worldwide.
Assessing the Changes of the Landmass Surrounded by the Indian Coast
Authors: Nayak Sridhara
Published: March 2021

This study explores the changes in the landmass bounded by the coast of India during 1975-2005 by using on-screen visual interpretation technique (with 100m resolution and 1:50,000 scale) from NASA Landsat Imagery in three different time periods viz. 1975, 1990, and 2005. The result indicated an overall expansion of 130 sq. km area of the landmass that surrounded by the Indian coast during 1975-2005 (74 sq. km during 1975-1990 and 56 sq. km during 1991-2005). These estimations are based on the preliminary analysis and may be estimated more accurately by reducing the scale and using further higher resolution images.
Physical Activity, Eating Behaviour and Well-Being During a COVID-19 Period Among Greek Adolescents
Authors: Morres Ioannis D. , Galanis Evangelos , Hatzigeorgiadis Antonis , Androutsos Odysseas , Theodorakis Yannis
Published: March 2021

Adolescents’ daily life has dramatically changed during the COVID-19 era due to the social restrictions that have been imposed, including closures of schools, leisure centers and sport facilities. The purpose of this study was to examine levels of well-being and mood and their relations with physical (in)-activity and eating behaviors in adolescents during a lockdown period in Greece. A total of 950 adolescents (Mean Age = 14.41years ± 1.63) participated in a web-based survey while education was online and organized sport activities were interrupted. Participants showed poor well-being, insufficient physical activity levels and moderate scores of healthy eating behavior. Hierarchical regression analysis showed that, after controlling for the effect of gender and body mass index, increased physical activity and healthier eating behavior predicted better well-being, whereas sedentariness predicted worse well-being. Furthermore, it was revealed that days of physical activity per week was a stronger predictor of well-being than minutes of physical activity per week, and that both in-house and out-of-house physical activity were beneficial. Considering that well-being was below the threshold recommended by the WHO as indicative of possible depressive symptoms, measures to increase physical activity and improve eating behavior should become a priority for communities and policy makers.
The Influence of INSTAD Learning Strategies Toward Metacognition And Student’s Cognitive Achievement In Studying Biology
Authors: Mumpuni Kistantia Elok , Karyanto Puguh , Sugiyarto Bowo
Published: March 2021

Learning biodiversity using INSTAD learning strategy to improve metacognition awareness and student’s cognitive achievement : a study toward student of SMA Batik 1 Surakarta.This research is considered as a quantitative  research, and analyzed as according to quasi-experimental paradigm. The research was designed using pretest-posttest randomized subject control-group. Experimental group was determined and upon which INSTAD strategy was applied. Instead of the non experiment one. Such the aforementioned strategy was conducted upon student of SMA Batik 1 Surakarta as a population. Sampling was taken randomly upon two chosen the X-5 (experiment class) and  the X-4 (control class).  Data was collected using questionnaire, test and observation form. The data were     analyzed by anacova.Results of the study showed that metacognition was significantly affected by INSTAD. However the application of INSTAD has taken effect on student’s cognitive achievement in studying biology of SMA Batik 1            Surakarta.

 

Key Words: INSTAD learning strategies, metacognition, student’s cognitive achievement
The Influence of INSTAD Learning Strategies Toward Students High Order Thingking Skills In Studying Biology
Authors: Qolbaini Evi Nur , Karyanto Puguh , Sugiyarto Bowo
Published: March 2021

This research aims to ascertain the influence of INSTAD learning strategies towards high order thinking in biology.This research was considered as a research, hence quantitative approach was used in this research.. The research design was pretest-posttest randomized subject control group using two classes which was taken by cluster ramdom sampling. The data was collected through four kinds of method, namely documentation, questionnaire, test, and observation.  Documentation method was used to obtain the cognitive score. The data of high order thinking was taken by using test method. Questionnaire was used to assess student’s response to INSTAD and thinking skill, while implementation of INSTAD was examined through observation. The overall data were analyzed by using anacova.The conclution was that, the application of INSTAD strategy gave unsignificant to high order thinking skill in learning biology.

 

Key Words: INSTAD learning strategies, HOTS
Perbandingan Hasil Belajar Biologi Strategi Pembelajaran Aktif Tipe Make A Match dan Card Sort
Authors: Aini Nurul , Santosa Slamet , Sugiharto Bowo
Published: March 2021

The purpose of the research is ascertain the differences result learning achievement in biology on active learning strategies  Make a Match and Card Sort Class X SMA Negeri 5 Surakarta academic year 2012/2013. The research method was quasy experiment using quantitative approach. The populations was all students of class X SMA Negeri 5 Surakarta academic year 2012/2013 with 297 students. The sample of this research was established by cluster sampling, so chosen X3 as the experiment 1 class with 29 students and X4 as the experiment 2 with 30 students. Data was collected using multiple choice test, observation sheet, and document. The data were analyzed by t-test. The results of the study showed that Make a Match strategy has 67.37 for the cognitive side, 81.46 the psychomotor side, and 77.58 for the affective side; while Card Sort strategy has 63.42 for the cognitive side, 73.92 for the psychomotor side, and 78.53 for the affective side. Decision take hypothesis with level of significance (α : 0,05). Ho rejected if probability significance less than 0.05 and accepted if more than 0.05. In the cognitive domain showed 0.039 > 0.05, the shows psychomotor domain 0.049 <0.05, and the affective domain, showed 0.69> 0.05. The conclusion of this research were have differences results of biological studies on the cognitive and psychomotor from the application of active learning strategies Make a Match and application of active learning strategies Card Sort  Class X students of SMA Negeri 5 Surakarta academic year 2012/2013.

 

Key Words: Active Learning Strategies Make a Match, Active Learning Strategy Card Sort, Learning Achievement in Biology
PENERAPAN MODEL PEMBELAJARAN INKUIRI UNTUK MENINGKATKAN RASA INGIN TAHU SISWA PADA MATERI SISTEM REPRODUKSI KELAS XI MIA 8 SMA NEGERI 1 KARANGANYAR TAHUN PELAJARAN 2014/2015
Authors: Veronicatama Raden Roro Avisa , Ramli Murni , Sari Dewi Puspita , Astorini Sri
Published: March 2021

The research aimed to enhance student’s curiosity by implementation of inquiry learning model on reproductive system at  grade XI MIA 8 SMAN 1 Karanganyar academic year 2014/2015.This research was a Classroom Action Research that performed within 3 cycles. Each cycle consisted of 4 steps, there are planning, action, observation, and reflection. The subject is 31 students of grade XI MIA 8 SMAN 1 Karanganyar academic year 2014/2015. Data were obtained by observation, test, interview, and documentation. The data were analyzed by qualitative descriptive technique. To measure student’s curiosity student’s activity had been observed and questionaire had been distributed as well. Precycle showed that student’s curiosity of grade XI MIA 8 SMAN 1 Karanganyar were low in each aspect, 1) Curiosity to get information and intellectual fact was 30,64%, 2) Curiosity to accommodate the experiences with sense was 38,71%, 3) Desire to knowing more about the part of science which exist was 32,26%, 4) Curiosity to explore existing knowledge was 48,39%.

               

keywords: inquiry learning model, curiosity
Perbandingan Hasil Belajar Materi Sistem Pencernaan Makanan Pada Model Pembelajaran Reciprocal Teaching yang Menggunakan Game Smart Case Dengan yang Tidak Menggunakan Game Smart Case Peserta Didik SMA Negeri 1 Barru
Authors: Husni Andi Irna Lestari , Taiyeb Mushawwir , Hiola Fatmah
Published: March 2021

This study aims to determine the comparison learning outcomes digestive system material in reciprocal teaching learning model used game smart case with not used game smart case students SMA Negeri 1 Barru. The sample in this research is the students of class XI MIA 4 as experiment class 1 and class XI MIA 7 as experiment class 2 which amounts to 70 students obtained by using simple purposive sampling technique. This research uses quasi experimental research design pretest-posttest non equivalen comparison group design. The cognitive learning outcomes were measured using a multiple choice test of 30 numbers and a description test of 5 numbers on the dietary material of the digestive system. The data obtained were analyzed by descriptive statistic and inferential statistic using paired sample anacova test with significance level 0,05. The result of t test statistic for students' cognitive learning result is 0,004 means Ho is rejected and H1 accepted so that it can be concluded that there is a comparison learning outcomes digestive system material in reciprocal teaching learning model used game smart case with not used game smart case students.
Congratulations! Best Paper Award 2010
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: March 2021

The first Best Paper Award ceremony was held in Kasumigaseki, Tokyo, Japan, on July 23, attended by authors and IJAT committee members who took part in the selection process for IJAT, Vol.3 (2009). The award winner(s) will also be announced on the IJAT website and given a certificate and a nearly US$1,000 honorarium.

The Best Paper Award 2010 is as follows:

Title: A Machine Tool Spindle Achieving Real-Time Balancing Using Magnetic Fluid

Authors: Keiichi Nakamoto, Shinya Mitsuhashi, Kazuhiko Adachi, and Keiichi Shirase

IJAT, Vol.3 No.2, pp. 193-198, March 2009
Congratulations! Best Paper Award 2012
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: March 2021

The third IJAT Best Paper Award ceremony was held in Kasumigaseki, Tokyo, Japan, on August 3, 2012, attended by the winner and IJAT committee members who took part in the selection process for IJAT, Vol.5 (2011). The Best Paper was severely selected from among 118 papers published in Vol.5 (2011). The award winner was given a certificate and a nearly US$1,000 honorarium and announced on the IJAT website.

 

The Best Paper Award 2012 is as follows:

Title: Identification of 5-Axis Machine Tools Feed Drive Systems for Contouring Simulation

Authors: Burak Sencer and Yusuf Altintas

Int. J. of Automation Technology Vol.5 No.3, pp. 377- 386, May 2011
Congratulations! The Best Paper Award & Best Review Award 2016
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: March 2021

The seventh Best Paper Award 2016 ceremony was held at Guimaraes, Portugal, August 24, 2016 in the 66th CIRP General Assembly, and the second Best Review Award 2016 ceremony was held at Kasumigaseki, Tokyo, September 23, 2016, attended by the winners and IJAT committee members who took part in the selection process. The Best Paper was severely selected from among 85 papers published in Vol.9 (2015) and the Best Review was selected from 10 reviews published from 2013 to 2016. The Best Paper Award winner was given a certificate with a nearly US$1,000 honorarium and the Best Review Award winner was given a certificate with commemorative shield.

We congratulate the winner and sincerely wish for their future success.

 

The Best Paper Award 2016

Advanced Control Strategies for Active Vibration Suppression in Laser Cutting Machines

by Berend Denkena, Martin Eckl, and Thomas Lepper

Int. J. of Automation Technology Vol.9 No.4, pp. 425-435, July, 2015

 

The Best Review Award 2016

In-Process and On-Machine Measurement of Machining Accuracy for Process and Product Quality Management: A Review

by Yasuhiro Takaya

Int. J. of Automation Technology Vol.8 No.1 pp. 4-19, January, 2014
Congratulations! The Best Paper Award & Best Review Award 2018
Authors:   Editorial Office
Published: March 2021

The ninth Best Paper Award 2018 ceremony was held at Hilltop Hotel, Tokyo, September 26, 2018, attended by the winners and IJAT Editorial Committee members. At the same time, the third Best Review Award 2018 has been decided by IJAT Editorial Committee. The Best Paper was severely selected from among 93 papers published in Vol.11, 2017, and Best Review was selected from 15 reviews published from 2016 to 2018. The Best Paper Award winner was given a certificate with a nearly US$1,000 honorarium, and the Best Review Award winner was given a certificate with commemorative shield.

We congratulate the winners and sincerely wish for their future success.

The Best Paper Award 2018

Integrated Chatter Monitoring Based on Sensorless Cutting Force/Torque Estimation in Parallel Turning

by Yuki Yamada, Takashi Kadota, Shinya Sakata, Junji Tachibana, Kenichi Nakanishi, Manabu Sawada, and Yasuhiro Kakinuma

Int. J. of Automation Technology, Vol.11 No.2, pp. 215-225, March 2017

The Best Review Award 2018

“Industrie 4.0” and Smart Manufacturing – A Review of Research Issues and Application Examples

by Klaus-Dieter Thoben, Stefan Wiesner, and Thorsten Wuest

Int. J. of Automation Technology, Vol.11 No.1, pp. 4-16, January 2017
Self-Organized Subpopulation Based on Multiple Features in Genetic Programming on GPU
Authors: Ono Keiko , Hanada Yoshiko ,   Doshisha University 1-3 Tatara Miyakodani, Kyotanabe, Kyoto 610-0394, Japan,   Kansai University 3-3-35 Yamate-cho, Suita, Osaka 564-8680, Japan
Published: March 2021

Genetic Programming (GP) is an Evolutionary Computation (EC) algorithm. Controlling genetic diversity in GP is a fundamental requirement to obtain various types of local minima effectively; however, this control is difficult compared to other EC algorithms because of difficulties in measuring the similarity between solutions. In general, common subtrees and the edit distance between solutions is used to evaluate the similarity between solutions. However, there are no clear guidelines regarding the best features to evaluate it. We hypothesized that the combination of multiple features helps to express the specific genetic similarity of each solution. In this study, we propose a self-organized subpopulation model based on similarity in terms of multiple features. To reconstruct subpopulations, we introduce a novel weighted network based on each normalized feature and utilize network clustering techniques. Although we can regard similarity as a correlation network between solutions, the use of multiple features incurs high computational costs, however, calculating the similarity is very suitable for parallelization on GPUs. Therefore, in the proposed method, we use CUDA to reconstruct subpopulations. Using three benchmark problems widely adopted in studies in the literature, we demonstrate that performance improvement can be achieved by reconstructing subpopulations based on a correlation network of solutions, and that the proposed method significantly outperforms typical methods.
Reconstruction Method for Missing Measurement Data Based on Wasserstein Generative Adversarial Network
Authors: Zhang Changfan ,   College of Electrical and Information Engineering, Hunan University of Technology  No.89 Taishan Xi Road, Tianyuan District, Zhuzhou, Hunan 412007, China, Chen Hongrun , He Jing , Yang Haonan
Published: March 2021

Focusing on the issue of missing measurement data caused by complex and changeable working conditions during the operation of high-speed trains, in this paper, a framework for the reconstruction of missing measurement data based on a generative adversarial network is proposed. Suitable parameters were set for each frame. Discrete measurement data are taken as the input of the frame for preprocessing the data dimensionality. The convolutional neural network then learns the correlation between different characteristic values of each device in an unsupervised pattern and constrains and improves the reconstruction accuracy by taking advantage of the context similarity of authenticity. It was determined experimentally that when there are different extents of missing measurement data, the model described in the present paper can still maintain a high reconstruction accuracy. In addition, the reconstruction data also conform well to the distribution law of the measurement data.
La función de la JFMM en el ordenamiento espacial de Ciudad Juárez: planos reguladores. The role of the JFMM in the spatial ordering of Ciudad Juárez: regulatory plans.
Authors: Santiago Quijada Guadalupe
Published: March 2021

El propósito de este trabajo es analizar la transformación del funcionamiento de las Juntas Federales de Mejoras Materiales que de ser organismos enfocados a la introducción de servicios públicos de las ciudades fronterizas se convirtieron en instituciones dedicadas al ordenamiento del espacio urbano con el impulso de la elaboración de planos reguladores. De manera particular, se estudia la presencia e impacto de las JFMM en la introducción de servicios públicos e infraestructura y en la institucionalización de la planeación urbana en Ciudad Juárez. Para la búsqueda de información, se trabajó en la revisión de archivos históricos y de periódicos e históricos.
Pembelajaran Sejarah pada Masa Kolonialisme Belanda
Authors: Arifin Faizal
Published: March 2021

This article aims to examine the development of historical learning during the Dutch Colonialism period, especially after the implementation of the Ethical Policy. In the field of education, indigenous elite students have access to Western (Dutch) education with the Colonial-Centrism curriculum, including history lessons. Historical learning in the early twentieth century characterized by learning materials oriented towards European superiority, Dutch legitimacy over Colonialism in the Dutch East Indies, delegitimation of rulers (kings/sultans) in Nusantara, and the indoctrination of colonized nations to accept Colonialism. This research used the historical method, namely heuristics, criticism, interpretation, and historiography. The results of this research showed us that historical learning during the Colonialism period was oriented to legitimize the political power of Dutch Colonialism and indoctrination for indigenous elites to accept Colonialism. That is because historical learning has a strategic role in influencing elite indigenous students to receive and support colonial domination and structure in society. On the other perspectives, history lessons produced indigenous students that increase the ability of critical thinking about Colonialism and Western Imperialism.
Ulnar Neuropathy After Intermittent Prone Positioning for COVID-19 Infection
Authors: Sayegh Michael J. , Larsen Christopher G. , Pinpin Camille , Intravia Jessica M. , Nellans Kate W.
Published: March 2021

Case:

We describe a preliminary report of 3 cases of ulnar neuropathy after coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection and treatment with intermittent prone positioning.

Conclusion:

Ulnar neuropathy may be associated with recent COVID-19 infection. The natural process of the disease and intermittent prone positioning are likely risk factors contributing to this finding. Conservative management seems to lead to improvement of symptoms.
Integrated bioinformatics analysis for the screening of hub genes and therapeutic drugs in severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2 infection/COVID 19
Authors: Vastrad Basavaraj , Vastrad Chanabasayya , Kotturshetti Iranna
Published: March 2021

Severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections (COVID 19) is a progressive viral infection that has been investigated extensively. However, genetic features and molecular pathogenesis underlying SARS-CoV-2 infection remain unclear. Here we used bioinformatics to investigate the candidate genes associated in the molecular pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Expression profiling by high throughput sequencing (GSE149273) was downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), and the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in remdesivir traded SARS-CoV-2 infection samples and non treated SARS-CoV-2 infection samples with an adjusted P-value < 0.05 and a |log fold change (FC)| > 1.3 were first identified by limma in R software package. Next, Pathway and Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis of these DEGs was performed. Then, the hub genes were identified by the Network Analyzer plugin and the other bioinformatics approaches including protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis, module analysis, target gene - miRNA regulatory network, and target gene - TF regulatory network construction was also performed. Finally, receiver‐operating characteristic (ROC) analyses were for diagnostic values associated with hub genes. A total of 909 DEGs were identified, including 453 up regulated genes and 457 down regulated genes. As for the pathway and GO enrichment analysis, the up regulated genes were mainly linked with influenza A and defense response, whereas down regulated genes were mainly linked with Drug metabolism - cytochrome P450 and reproductive process. Additionally, 10 hub genes (VCAM1, IKBKE, STAT1, IL7R, ISG15, E2F1, ZBTB16, TFAP4, ATP6V1B1 and APBB1) were identified. ROC analysis showed that hub genes (CIITA, HSPA6, MYD88, SOCS3, TNFRSF10A, ADH1A, CACNA2D2, DUSP9, FMO5 and PDE1A) had good diagnostic values. In summary, the data may produce new insights regarding pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 infection and treatment. Hub genes and candidate drugs may improve individualized diagnosis and therapy for SARS-CoV-2 infection in future.
Association between hyperlipidemia and chronic kidney disease in a Japanese population; a cross-sectional study
Authors: SHIRAISHI Yuko AGO , ISHIKAWA Yukiko , ISHIKAWA Joji , MATSUMURA Masami , ISHIKAWA Shizukiyo
Published: March 2021

Background: Strategies to prevent the development and progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) are important in clinical practice due to increased life expectancy. The present study investigated the prevalence of CKD as well as lipid profiles affecting CKD, especially triglyceride (TG) levels.Methods: In total, 5,169 subjects were eligible for a cross-sectional analysis of baseline data from the Jichi Medical School Cohort Study. We examined CKD subjects with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of 59 mL/min/1.73m2 or lower and independent factors associated with reductions in eGFR.Results: The prevalence of CKD was 17.7%. Age, systolic blood pressure, and hyperlipidemia were defined as related factors for CKD. The lowest, second, third, and highest quartile ranges of total cholesterol (TC) and TG were 0-166, 167-188, 189-212, and 213 mg/dL or higher and 0-71, 72-100, 101-148, and 149 mg/dL or higher, respectively. The odds ratio (OR) of Q2 to Q4 of TC relative to that of Q1 for CKD increased linearly (OR [95%CI]: Q2, 1.3 [1.0-1.7]; Q3, 1.38 [1.1-1.8]; Q4, 1.5 [1.4-2.4]). The ORs of Q2 and Q3 of TG for CKD did not increase, whereas that of Q4 did (OR [95% CI]: Q2, 0.95 [0.7-1.2]; Q3, 0.98 [0.8-1.2]; Q4, 1.21 [1.0-1.5]). Conclusion: Increases in TC and TG levels were both independently associated with CKD. The relationship with CKD became stronger as TC increased, and the TG had threshold was 149 mg/dL.
Transitional Care for Patients with Portal Hypertension:A multicenter study of intervention for patients post-TIPS
Authors: Xu Yin , Wang Zhong-Min , Yang Ru-Mei , Wang Ling , Fei Xiao-Yan , Xiao Shu-Ping , Hou Wei-Wei , Li Chun-Hong , Shao Hong-Yan
Published: March 2021

Background:To explore the application effect of multicenter transitional nursing in patients post-TIPS.Methods:A total of 368 patients who underwent TIPS were randomly allocated to the control or intervention group. Patients in the control group received conventional care, and patients in the intervention group received conventional care combined with transitional care. The Child-Pugh scores, blood ammonia levels, compliance behavior, medication compliance, and adverse event incidence rates in the two groups were compared at 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months post-TIPS.Results:Repeated measures analysis of variance showed significant group effects 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months post-TIPS in the compliance behavior scores of the two groups. The intervention group had significantly higher compliance behavior scores than the control group 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months post-TIPS. The incidence of postoperative adverse events in the intervention group was significantly lower than that in the control group 12 months after TIPS. The group effects, time effects and group*time interaction revealed significant differences in the Child-Pugh scores 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months post-TIPS between the two groups and significant differences in blood ammonia levels 9 months after TIPS.Conclusions:Post-TIPS transitional care interventions increased patients’access to scientifically informed nursing, significantly improved patients’compliance behavior and health, and decreased the incidence of postoperative adverse events.
The Addition of KNO3 and (NH4)3PO4 Maybe Improves the Ability to Accumulate Cd by Regulating the Redistribution of Nutrients in Bermudagrass
Authors: Tan Shuduan , Chen Bin , Liu Zhongshu , Dong Meng , Yu Hongbing , Zhou Xiaomei , Ge Yili , Hua Tongtong
Published: March 2021

The application of fertilizer can improve the Cd enrichment efficiency of plants, but the changes of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K) in the growth medium have different impacts on Cd enrichment efficiency of plants. In this study, hydroponic experiment by adding different KNO3 and (NH4)3PO4 was carried out to study whether and how the addition of available N, P and K can improve Cd accumulation. The four treatments were CK, 0.4 mg kg-1 Cd (Cd), 0.4 mg kg-1 Cd and KNO3 (COK), 0.4 mg kg-1 Cd and (NH4)3PO4 (CNP). The results showed that the chlorophyll contents, PSII maximum photochemical quantum efficiency (Fv/Fm) and PSII potential activity (Fv/Fo) of COK and CNP were higher than that of CD. There was no significant difference between CK and CNP (P > 0.05). The N, P and K contents and Cd concentrations of roots and stems of COK and CNP were significantly higher than those of CD(P＜0.05).The BCF of COK and CNP were also significantly higher than that of CD, increasing by 39.8% and 37.6%, respectively. The root, stem and leaf dry weight of COK and the root and stem dry weight of CNP were higher than that of CD, and the biomass of the whole basin was significantly higher than that of CD (P＜0.05), but with no significant difference from that of CK (P＞0.05). In addition to stem K accumulation of CNP, N, P and K allocated to root and stem in COK and CNP were significantly higher than that in CD (P＜0.05). There was no significant difference in pH and water soluble Cd content among CD, COK and CNP (P＞0.05). it was concluded that plants can improve their Cd accumulation ability by changing biomass and nutrient allocation. The conclusion provides a theoretical basis for improving soil environmental factors by improving fertilization strategies of related plants so as to improve Cd enrichment ability.
Assessment of carbon storage potential of forested wetland soils as affected by urbanization degree in two different physiographic provinces of Virginia, USA
Authors: Ledford Kathryn , Schmidt Stephanie , Ahn Changwoo
Published: March 2021

This study assessed carbon storage potential in terms of total carbon (TC) and total carbon stocks (TC stocks) in soils of four forested wetlands in Northern Virginia along with associated soil physicochemistry [e.g., soil pH, bulk density (Db), and gravimetric soil moisture (GSM)]. The study sites were selected across two vastly different degrees of urbanization (urban [U]; non-urban [N]) and the two main physiographic provinces of the region (Piedmont; Coastal Plain). Soils were sampled and analyzed at three depth intervals (0-10cm; 10-20cm; 20-30cm). No significant differences were found in TC (3.07 ± 0.31% [U]; 3.82 ± 0.40%; [N]) or TC stocks (2.81 ± 0.35 kg∙m− 2 [U]; 3.58 ± 0.28 kg∙m− 2 [N]) between urbanization degrees (p > 0.05). There was no significant difference in TC stocks by physiographic province (p > 0.05), however, Coastal Plain wetland soils had higher TC than the Piedmont wetlands (4.32 ± 0.41%; 2.57 ± 0.22%, p < 0.05). Db and GSM were significantly different along urbanization degree and physiography, and were highly correlated to TC, being able to estimate the total variability of TC to a significant degree (R2 = 0.39 and R2 = 0.47, all p < 0.05). The outcome shows that urban wetlands fairly mirror the carbon storage potential of non-urban wetlands and more likely so in the Coastal Plain than in the Piedmont, especially in their top 10 cm of soils. Further studies may be warranted across an urbanizing landscape to elucidate carbon storage potentials of urban wetlands that can combat urban carbon emissions.
Perceptions of Facilitators and Barriers to Mental Health Treatment Engagement Among Decision-making Competent Adolescents in Greece
Authors: Tsamadou Eftychia , Voultsos Polychronis , Emmanouilidis Anastasios , Ampatzoglou Grigorios
Published: March 2021

Background: A subset of adolescents with mental disorders are likely to be (share) decision making competent and hence can make their treatment engagement more effective. Treatment engagement is decisive in achieving successful outcomes. However, there are high rates of drop-out in mental health settings.Aim: This study aims at identifying barriers to or facilitators of mental health care engagement among adolescents with decision-making competence in Greece. Methods: Participants were adolescents in therapy for mental disorders recruited from an outpatient tertiary hospital setting. First, potential participants with decision making competence were identified. Second, 50 participants were interviewed about their perceptions of treatment. The interviews were auto-recorded. A transcription verbatim and data analysis were conducted. All the requirements of a qualitative research and ethical considerations were observed.Results: All the participants highlighted their experience with facilitators rather than barriers to their treatment engagement. Facilitators included: a) positive treatment outcomes and adolescent's perceived usefulness of treatment, b) a meaningful adolescent-therapist relationship, c) family’s supportive role, d) symptoms and negative self-image, and e) developing social relationships and acceptance by peers. The participants equally highlighted the importance of getting rid of their symptoms and improve their socialization skills. Other facilitators included: achieving professional and personal goals in life, enhancing their independence and self-esteem / self-image, or even just confessing to another trustworthy person. Friends were reported as having a neutral or mild supportive role. The barriers included ineffective and unhelpful treatment, negative experiences with their therapist, relief from symptoms and mental health therapy-related stigma. Conclusion: For the most part, the findings enhance prior studies. Participants highlighted facilitators rather than barriers to treatment engagement. For the most part, the findings enhance prior studies. However, we identified some nuances which might be used by therapists to enhance the adolescents’ treatment engagement. For instance, bearing in their mind that by the subsiding of symptoms adolescents are most likely to terminate the treatment prematurely and highlighting the achievement of adolescents’ future goals as well as the potential family’s enhanced well-being because of the improvement of adolescents’ mental health may contribute to reducing the attrition rate.
CFD-researches of centrifugal compressor stage vane diffusers
Authors: Borovkov Aleksey , Galerkin Yuri , Petukhov Evgeniy , Drozdov Aleksandr , Yadikin Vladimir , Rekstin Aleksey , Semenovskiy Vasiliy , Solovyeva Olga , Marenina Lyubov
Published: March 2021

The paper presents result of CFD simulations of a series of centrifugal compressor stage vane diffusers in the Ansys CFX. Objects of research are vane diffusers with external relative diameter (relative to the diameter of the impeller) equal to 1.5, vane inlet angle of 20 degrees, relative vane heights of 0.025, 0.034, 0.045, 0.06, 0.08, vane profile curvature angles of 10, 15, 20 degrees. The characteristics of polytrophic efficiency, loss coefficient, recovery coefficient, ratio of inlet and outlet velocities, flow deviation angle versus incidence angle are set. The analysis of the flow structure in the vane diffuser channels is presented. Unlike with a straight vane cascade, the deviation angle in the circular rows of vane diffusers tends to increase with increasing row density. This may be due to the complex nature of the interaction of the active part of the flow with separation zones. In rows with almost straight vanes at a lower density, the separation zone on the pressure side decreases, and even shifts to the very end of the suction side.
Hybrid Multi Beam Forming and Multi User Detection Technique for MU MIMO System
Authors: Kinol A. Mary joy , nisha A Sahaya Anselin , D Marshiana , N.R Krishnamoorthy
Published: March 2021

Multi user - Multiple-input multiple-output (MU-MIMO) based wireless communication system has several advantage over conventional MIMO systems such as high data rate and channel capacity which drawn great attention recently and prominently preferred for 5G systems. And on the other side interferences due to the multi user mobile environment such as co-channel interference and multiple access interference the overall system performance will be degraded and highly reliable techniques need to be incorporate to improve the Quality of services. Moreover the energy efficiency and compactness requirement of 5G systems presents new challenges to investigate techniques for reliable communications. In this paper we introduce a novel low-complexity radix factorization based fast Fourier transform multi beam former and maximal likelihood –multi user detection (ML-MUD) techniques as signal detector tailored with optimal sub detector systems which results with considerable complexity reduction with intolerable error rate performance. The proposed radix factorized Fast Fourier transform - multi-beam forming (RF-FFT-MBF) architectures have the potential to reduce both hardware complexity and energy consumptions as compared to its state-of-the-art methods while meeting the throughput requirements of emerging 5G devices. Here through simulation results the efficiency of scaled ML sub detector system at the downlink side is compared with the conventional ML detectors. Through experimental results it is well proved that the proposed detector offers significant hardware and energy efficiency with least possible error rate performance overhead.
Barriers to Hand Hygiene Compliance in Intensive Care Units From the Perspective of Healthcare Workers: A Qualitative Study
Authors: shahrbabaki Parvin Mangolian , Dehghan Mahlagha , Ahmadinejad Mehdi , jabarpour Maryam , Mazallahi Mahbubeh
Published: March 2021

Background: Hand hygiene is one of the simplest and most important ways to prevent nosocomial infections. However, the available evidence indicates that hand hygiene is not fully practiced by healthcare workers. Several factors affect hand hygiene. Therefore, this study aimed to explain the experiences of healthcare workers in the barriers to hand hygiene compliance in intensive care units.Methods: This qualitative study was performed on 25 doctors, anesthesiologists, nurses and physiotherapists working in intensive care units by using purposive sampling and semi-structured individual interviews. The data analysis process was performed with Lundman and Graneheim approach.Results: The main theme of “barriers to hand hygiene practice” with three main categories, including 1- barriers related to healthcare providers with subcategories of workload, insufficient knowledge, inappropriate attitude and wrong behavioral patterns, 2- barriers related to management with the subcategories of improper planning and training, improper design of the physical space of the department and 3- barriers related to equipment and facilities with the subcategories of lack of equipment and poor quality equipment were identified in this study.Conclusion: The results of the present study can help the relevant authorities in adopting appropriate strategies to remove barriers to hand hygiene practice and promote the right attitude and behavior in healthcare workers.
Phase Transformation of Cr(VI)-Adsorbed Ferrihydrite at Different pH in The Presence of Mn(II): Fate of Mn(II) and Cr(VI)
Authors: Ding Zecong , Fu Fenglian , Sun Guangzhao , Ye Chujia
Published: March 2021

Ferrihydrite is an important sink for the toxic heavy metal ions, such as chromium(VI). As ferrihydrite is thermodynamically unstable and gradually transforms into hematite and goethite, the stability of Cr(VI)-adsorbed ferrihydrite is environmentally significant. This study investigated the phase transformation of Cr(VI)-adsorbed ferrihydrite at different pH in the presence of aqueous Mn(II), as well as the fate of Mn(II) and Cr(VI) in the transformation process of ferrihydrite. Among the ferrihydrite transformation products, hematite was dominant, and goethite was minor. The pre-adsorbed Cr(VI) inhibited the conversion of ferrihydrite to goethite at initial pH 3.0, whereas little amount of adsorbed Mn(II) favored the formation of goethite at initial pH 7.0. After the aging process, Cr species in solid phase existed primarily as Cr(III) in the presence of Mn(II) at initial pH 7.0 and 11.0. The aqueous Mn concentration was predominantly unchanged at initial pH 3.0, whereas the aqueous Mn(II) was adsorbed onto ferrihydrite or form Mn(OH)2 precipitates at initial pH 7.0 and 11.0, promoting the immobilization of Cr(VI). Moreover, the oxidation of Mn(II) occurred at initial pH 7.0 and 11.0, forming Mn(III/IV) (hydr)oxides.