bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surface Electromyography Reveals Middle Deltoid as The Functionally Dominant Shoulder Muscle After Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty
Authors: Lau Emily , Pietroski Alexander , Franovic Sreten , Zhou Yang , Kuhlmann Noah , Chen Chaoyang , Muh Stephanie
Published: July 2021

Background: Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) increases deltoid muscle fiber recruitment and tension to compensate for deficient rotator cuff activity; however, it is unclear whether the anterior or middle deltoid becomes dominant and how the muscle activation profile changes postoperatively. Using minimally invasive electromyography, this study evaluated the activity of the deltoid and surrounding muscles during shoulder motion to assess muscle activation changes post-RSA. Methods: In this observational study, we assessed change in preoperative to postoperative shoulder muscle activation in 10 patients over 6 months. Muscle activation was measured using 8 surface electrodes. Activation of the anterior, middle and posterior deltoid and surrounding muscles were recorded during shoulder abduction, flexion, external and internal rotation were quantified. One-way analysis of variance was used to identify significant differences in activation and time or speed. Least significant difference post hoc test was used to determine specific differences in muscle activation at subsequent time points. Results: RSA shoulders at 6 months postoperative showed a significant increase in activity of the middle deltoid predominantly. Middle deltoid activation increased during abduction (P < 0.001), flexion (P = 0.008), external (P < 0.001) and internal (P < 0.001) rotation. Conclusions: Our study demonstrates the middle deltoid predominates in rotator cuff function in RSA as defined by quantitative activation, significant involvement in all shoulder motions, and increased activation at subsequent times. These findings may help guide future RSA designs to optimize deltoid wrapping allowing for maximal strength and efficiency.
Data-driven sustainability evaluation of machining system: a case study
Authors: Zhang Cuixia , Wang Cui , Liu Conghu , Zhu Guang , Li Wenyi , Gao Mengdi
Published: July 2021

Improving resource efficiency and reducing waste discharge are the inevitable trend of the development of sustainable machining system. Therefore, a data-driven sustainability evaluation method of machining system is proposed. The input (energy, materials, equipment, R&D and services), and output (wastes and products) data of machining system are collected. These dimensional data are processed by emergy. The emergy flow calculation model of the machining process is established for data modeling, and the sustainability evaluation index of machining system is constructed for data analysis. Finally, an engine base machining process is taken as case study for innovative practice; and the targeted process optimization is adopted based on its sustainability evaluation for innovative practice. The feasibility and effectiveness of the method are verified. This study provides theoretical and methodological support for promoting the sustainability of the manufacturing industry.
The Energy Conservation and Emission Reduction Effects of Economic Agglomeration: A Spatial Perspective Based on China's Province-level Data
Authors: Luo Tianyu , Chen Hongmin
Published: July 2021

Based on the data of 30 provinces in China from 1995 to 2017, this paper combines exploratory spatial data analysis method, dynamic spatial Durbin model, and intermediary effect model to explore the spatial influence mechanism between economic agglomeration, energy intensity, and carbon emission intensity. The research results provide a basis for China's early realization of energy conservation and emission reduction goals, economical green development, and regional development strategy selection. Firstly, the results show that China's carbon emission intensity has apparent spatial agglomeration and path dependence characteristics. Secondly, the economic agglomeration has the dual effect of energy saving and emission reduction. Furthermore, there is a significant inverted N-curve relationship between economic agglomeration and carbon emission intensity and carbon emissions, and a significant U-shaped curve relationship exists between economic agglomeration and energy intensity. Finally, economic agglomeration can indirectly affect carbon emission intensity through the mediating effect of energy intensity, and there is a significant inverted U-shaped curve relationship between energy intensity and carbon emission intensity. Therefore, promoting mutual coordination of environmental policies and building a regional collaborative governance mechanism is an effective way to achieve a win-win situation for the environment and economy of Beautiful China.
C-STICH2: Emergency Cervical Cerclage To Prevent Miscarriage And Preterm Birth: Study Protocol For A Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Morton Victoria Ann Hodgetts , Hewitt Catherine , Jones Laura , Leighton Lisa , Pilarski Nicole , Molloy Eleanor , Hinshaw Kim , Norman Jane , Waugh Jason , Stock Sarah , Thornton Jim , Toozs-Hobson Philip , Johnston Tracey , Ewer Andrew , Coomarasamy Arri , Thangaratinam Shakila , Mol Ben , Pajkrt Eva , Marlow Neil , Roberts Tracy , Middleton Lee , Brocklehurst Peter , Morris Katie
Published: July 2021

Background: Cervical cerclage is a recognised treatment to prevent late miscarriage and pre-term birth (PTB). Emergency cervical cerclage (ECC) for cervical dilatation with exposed unruptured membranes is less common and the potential benefits of cerclage are less certain. A randomised control trial is needed to accurately assess the effectiveness of ECC in preventing pregnancy loss compared to an expectant approach.Methods: C-STICH2 is a multicentre randomised controlled trial in which women presenting with cervical dilatation and unruptured exposed membranes at 16+0 to 27+6 weeks gestation are randomised to ECC or expectant management. Trial design includes: 18 month internal pilot with embedded qualitative process evaluation; minimal data set; and a within-trial health economic analysis. Inclusion criteria are: ≥16 years, singleton pregnancy, exposed membranes at the external os, gestation 16+0-27+6 weeks, informed consent. Exclusion criteria are: contraindication to cerclage, cerclage in situ or previous cerclage in this pregnancy.Randomisation occurs via an online service in a 1:1 ratio, using a minimisation algorithm to reduce chance imbalances in key prognostic variables (site, gestation and dilatation). Primary outcome is pregnancy loss; a composite including miscarriage, termination of pregnancy and perinatal mortality defined as stillbirth and neonatal death in the first week of life. Secondary outcomes include all core outcomes for PTB. Two year development outcomes will be assessed using general health and Parent Report of Children's Abilities-Revised (PARCA-R) questionnaires. Intended sample size is 260 participants (130 each arm) based on 60% rate of pregnancy loss in the expectant management arm and 40% in the ECC arm, with 90% power and alpha 0.05. Analysis will be by intention-to-treat.Discussion: To date there has been one small trial of ECC in 23 participants which included twin and singleton pregnancies. This small trial along with the largest observational study (n=161) found ECC to prolong pregnancy duration and reduce deliveries before 34 weeks gestation. It is important to generate high quality evidence on the effectiveness of ECC in preventing pregnancy loss, and improve understanding of the prevalence of the condition and frequency of complications associated with ECC. An adequately powered RCT will provide the highest quality evidence regarding optimum care for these women and their babies. Trial registration: ISRCTN12981869 Registered on 13th June 2018
On the Weakening of Northward Propagation of Intraseasonal Oscillations During Positive Indian Ocean Dipole Events.
Authors: Kottapalli Aditya , N Vinayachandran P
Published: July 2021

The northward propagation of intraseasonal oscillations (ISO) is one of the major modes of variability in the tropics during boreal summer, associated with active and break spells of monsoon rainfall over the Indian region, and modulate the Indian summer monsoon rainfall (ISMR). The northward march starts close to the equator over warm waters of the Indian Ocean and continues till the foothills of the Himalayas. The northward propagations tend to be weaker during positive Indian Ocean Dipole (pIOD) years. We have used the "moisture mode" framework to understand the processes responsible for the weakening of northward propagations during IOD years. Our analyses show that moistening caused by the horizontal advection was the major contributor for the northward propagations during negative IOD (nIOD) years, and its amplitude is much smaller during pIOD years. The reduction in the zonal advection during pIOD is responsible for the weakening of northward propagations. Also, the mean structure of entropy between 925hpa – 500hpa levels remained similar over most of the monsoon region across the contrasting IOD years. The reason for weaker northward propagations can be attributed to the weaker zonal wind perturbations at intraseasonal timescales. The weaker zonal wind perturbations during ISO events in pIOD years owing to cooler sea surface temperatures (SST) in the South-East Equatorial Indian Ocean (SEIO) and warmer West Equatorial Indian Ocean (WEIO) and South-East Arabian Sea (SEAS) is proposed to be the possible reason for the weakening of northward propagations during pIOD years.
Quantum Energy-Transport and Drift-Diffusion Models for Electron Transport in Graphene An Approach by The Wigner Function
Authors: Camiola Vito Dario , Mascali Giovanni , Romano Vittorio
Published: July 2021

The present work aims at formulating quantum energy-transport and drift- diffusion equations for charge transport in graphene from a quantum hydrodynamic model proposed in [1], obtained from the Wigner-Boltzmann equation via the mo- ment method. In analogy with the semiclassical case, we are confident that the energy- transport and drift-diffusion models have mathematical properties which allow an easier numerical treatment.
Provide A Method Based on Genetic Algorithm to Optimize the Fuzzy Logic Controller for the Inverted Pendulum
Authors: Alimoradpour Shahrooz , Rafie Mahnaz , Ahmadzadeh Bahareh
Published: July 2021

One of the classic systems in dynamics and control is the inverted pendulum, which is known as one of the topics in control engineering due to its properties such as nonlinearity and inherent instability. Different approaches are available to facilitate and automate the design of fuzzy control rules and their associated membership functions. Recently, different approaches have been developed to find the optimal fuzzy rule base system using genetic algorithm. The purpose of the proposed method is to set fuzzy rules and their membership function and the length of the learning process based on the use of a genetic algorithm. The results of the proposed method show that applying the integration of a genetic algorithm along with Mamdani fuzzy system can provide a suitable fuzzy controller to solve the problem of inverse pendulum control. The proposed method shows higher equilibrium speed and equilibrium quality compared to static fuzzy controllers without optimization. Using a fuzzy system in a dynamic inverted pendulum environment has better results compared to definite systems, and in addition, the optimization of the control parameters increases the quality of this model even beyond the simple case.
Exploring The Role of Advanced Clinical Practitioners (ACPs) and Their Contribution To Health Services in England.
Authors: Mann Claire , Timmons Stephen , Evans Catrin , Pearce Ruth , Research Charlotte Overton , Hinsliff-Smith KATHRYN , Conway Joy
Published: July 2021

Background
An extended role being explored globally is that of the advanced clinical practitioner (ACP). In England this is an extended role for allied health professions, nurses and midwives. ACP education is organised by Health Education England (HEE) who organise an accredited training programme for ACPs alongside a multi-professional framework. This paper draws on research commissioned to evaluate the national implementation of the ACP role to inform the development of a Centre for Advancing Practice in the UK but has implications for others considering their ACP provision. This paper focuses on three key research questions: 1) What is the role of ACPs in England? 2) What are the barriers and facilitators to implementing the role? and 3) What is the contribution of ACPs to health services in England?
Methods
Semi-structured interviews were conducted in 2020 with 63 participants across a range of stakeholder groups and clinical areas. A purposive snowball sampling technique was used to identify participants meeting the inclusion criteria. Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim, anonymised and thematically analysed.
Results
We report on three aspects as highlighted from the data (1) The role of ACPs, (2) Barriers to and facilitators of the ACP role implementation (3) Contribution of ACPs to health services in England. The ACP role in England was undertaken in a broad range of clinical contexts. ACPs worked towards being an autonomous practitioner and most were independent prescribers. In England ‘advanced clinical practitioner’ was not a protected title. There were high levels of variability and ambiguity of understanding and deployment of the ACP role in England.
Conclusions
This study outlines the contribution that ACPs make to health services and contributing factors to the success of the ACP role in England. We demonstrated the range in which the role is successful in England. We identified key barriers and facilitators to implementing this role. Finally, the work showed the positive contribution that ACPs can make to service redesign and workforce development as well as patient outcomes, whilst accepting that there is much work to do to ensure protected status and parity across all professions and clinical contexts.
Atypical Leigh Syndrome Diagnosed in an Infant with Prominent Cardiac Hypertrophy as Initial Symptom: A Case Report with Novel LRPPRC Variants
Authors: Sun Guoyu , Ma Yi , Hou Xinlin , zhou Zhou
Published: July 2021

Background: Leigh syndrome is a kind of severe neurological disorder with various inheritable patterns usually affects children, especially the infants. Lack of characteristic neurodegenerative symptoms cause the delay and inaccurate diagnosis of Leigh syndrome, which is essential for the prognosis in pediatric clinical practice.Case presentation: A 10-day-old Chinese boy was first admitted to hospital with feeding difficulty, elevated lactate and prominent cardiac hypertrophy as initial symptom but without neurological abnormality. Subsequent identification of novel LRPPRC compound heterozygous variants c.2582T>A (p.Val861Asp) and c.1582+4A>G by whole exome sequencing seemed to favor French-Canadian Leigh syndrome. This diagnosis was further supported by the rapid progression of neuropathology manifesting as epileptic seizures 5 months later and the significantly reduced mitochondrial complex-IV activity.Conclusion: This tortuous process of diagnosis should raise the recognition of rare untypical type of Leigh syndrome, and emphasize the important role of genetic testing in current pediatric clinic. The observation also broadens the spectrum of LRPPRC variants associated with Leigh syndrome outside of French-Canadian areas.
Forecast of Complex Financial Big Data Using Model Tree Optimized By Bilevel Evolution Strategy
Authors: Senoguchi Junsuke
Published: July 2021

If a decision tree is constructed through a series of locally optimal solutions, such as the Greedy method, overfitting to the data is likely to occur. In order to avoid overfitting, many previous research have attempted to collectively optimize the structure of a decision tree by using evolutionary computation. However, if attributes of each split and their thresholds are searched simultaneously, the evaluation function becomes intermittent; thus, optimization methods assuming continuous distribution cannot be used. In this study, in order to enable efficient search assuming continuous distribution even for complicated data that contains a lot of noise and extraordinary values, such as financial time series data, the inner level search that optimizes each threshold value collectively given a specific attribute for each split in a model tree and the outer level search that optimizes the attributes of each split were performed by separate evolutionary computing. As a result, we obtained high prediction accuracy that far exceeded the performance of the conventional method.
Remarkable Enhancement In The N2- Selectivity of NH3-SCR Over The CeNb3Fe0.3/TiO2 Catalyst In The Presence of Chlorobenzene
Authors: Zang Pengchao , Liu Jun , Liu Xiaoqing , Zhang Guojie , Chen Jianjun , Li Junhua , Zhang Yongfa
Published: July 2021

The simultaneous removal of NOx and dioxins is the frontier of environmental catalysis, which is still in the initial stage and poses several challenges. In this study, a series of CeNb3Fex/TiO2 (x = 0, 0.3, 0.6, and 1.0) catalysts were prepared by the sol-gel method and examined for the synergistic removal of NOx and chlorobenzene. The CeNb3Fe0.3/TiO2 catalyst exhibits an optimum catalytic performance, with an NOx conversion greater than 95 % at 260-380 °C. It also exhibited an optimal CB oxidation activity, in which CB promoted both the NOx conversion and N2 selectivity below 250 °C. Moreover, the more favourable ratios of Ce4+ to Ce3+, and plentiful surface adsorbed oxygen species are the reasons why CeNb3Fe0.3/TiO2 catalyst has better catalytic activity than other catalysts at lower temperature. Simultaneously, owing to the modulation of Fe to the redox properties of Ce and Nb, the large number of oxygen vacancies and acid sites, the CeNb3Fe0.3/TiO2 catalyst is is beneficial to NOx reduction and CB oxidation. Further, the results of in situ DRIFTS study reveal the NH3-SCR reactions over CeNb3Fex/TiO2 catalysts are mainly controlled by the L-H mechanism (< 200 °C) and E-R mechanism (> 200 °C), respectively.
FuzzSemNIC: A Deep Fuzzy Neural Network Semantic-enhanced Approach of Neural Image Captioning
Authors: Vo Tham
Published: July 2021

Neural image captioning (NIC) is considered as a primitive problem artificial intelligence (AI) in which creates a connection between computer vision (CV) and natural language processing (NLP). However, recent attribute-based and textual semantic attention based models in NIC still encounter challenges related to irrelevant concentration of the designed attention mechanism on the relationship between extracted visual features and textual representations of corresponding image’s caption. Moreover, recent NIC-based models also suffer from the uncertainties and noises of extracted visual latent features from images which sometime leads to the disruption of the given image captioning model to sufficiently attend on the correct visual concepts. To solve these challenges, in this paper, we proposed an end-to-end integrated deep fuzzy-neural network with the unified attention-based semantic-enhanced vision-language approach, called as FuzzSemNIC. To alleviate noises and ambiguities from the extracted visual features, we apply a fused deep fuzzy-based neural network architecture to effectively learn and generate the visual representations of images. Then, the learnt fuzzy-based visual embedding vectors are combined with selective attributes/concepts of images via a recurrent neural network (RNN) architecture to incorporate the fused latent visual features into captioning task. Finally, the fused visual representations are integrated with a unified vision-language encoder-decoder for handling caption generation task. Extensive experiments in benchmark NIC-based datasets demonstrate the effectiveness of our proposed FuzzSemNIC model.
Sub-Saharan African Women’s Views and Experiences of Risk Factors for Obstetric Fistula: A Qualitative Systematic Review
Authors: Bulndi Lydia Babatunde , Ireson Deborah , Adama Esther , Bayes Sara
Published: July 2021

Background: Obstetric fistula, also known as vesico vagina fistula (VVF), is a hole between the birth canal and the bladder or rectum caused by prolonged, obstructed labour. VVF may cause sufferers to experience chronic urinary and/or faecal incontinence, and the burden of continuing foul odour. Obstetric fistula is primarily caused by prolonged obstructed labour, which is brought about by a range of causes. Recently, it has been proposed that women’s groups and fistula survivors should suggest interventions to reduce or resolve the incidence of VVF. Objective: The objective of this review was to summarise what is reported about women’s own views and experiences of the risk factors underlying the causes of obstetric fistula. Methods: A systematic approach outlined in the Joanna Briggs institute Manual for Evidence synthesis was followed for this review, articles published within the last 11 years from 2011 to 2021 were selected against several criteria and critically appraised using JBI Critical Appraisal checklist for qualitative studies. Results: Nine studies were retained for inclusion in this review, the data were then synthesised into five themes: (1) Cultural beliefs and practices impeding safe childbirth, (2) Lack of woman’s autonomy in choices of place to birth safely, (3) Lack of accessibility and social support to safe childbirth, (4) Inexperienced birth attendants and, (5) Delayed emergency maternal care (childbirth).Conclusions. This review highlights the complexity of risk factors predisposing women to the known causes of obstetric fistula. It also illuminates the absence of women’s voices in the identification of solutions to these risks. Women are most directly affected by VVF. Therefore, their knowledge, views and experience should be considered in the development and implementation of strategies to address the issue. Exploring women’s views on this issue would enable the identification of gaps in maternity care provision, which would be of interest to community and health service leaders as well as policy makers in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Cooperation Mechanisms For A Competitive, Sustainable Food Supply Chain To Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Authors: Manteghi Yashar , Arkat Jamal , Mahmoodi Anwar
Published: July 2021

The food industry is one of the main emitters of greenhouse gases (GHG). The consumers of this industry are aware of the unpleasant consequences of GHG emissions such as global warming and climate change, so food supply chain members should consider mechanisms to reduce GHG emissions besides economic and social goals. This paper examines the impacts of the supply chain structure and cooperation methods on the goals and decisions of a sustainable food supply chain. The proposed supply chain consists of one manufacturer and two suppliers, competition, and cooperation between those studied with centralized and decentralized structures. A single-level problem is solved for the centralized supply chain in the first scenario. The decentralized structure is then considered for the other four scenarios, and bi-level programming is used to model competition and cooperation between the members. Computational results demonstrate that the maximum total profit of the supply chain among all the decentralized scenarios is obtained with the alliance of the manufacturer and the first supplier. It is found economical to increase the budget in the scenarios where the supply chain members competed with each other. Moreover, increasing production capacity and budget reduce GHG emissions for the supply chain members forming coalitions.
A Blended Educational Intervention Program On Pap-Test Related Behavior Among Iranian Women
Authors: Ghalavandi Shahnaz , Zarei Fatemeh , Heidarnia Alireza , Beiranvand Reza
Published: July 2021

Background: Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women. In 2018, 570 thousand new cases of cervical cancer occur globally. Cervical cancer screening (Pap smear testing) identifies pre-cancerous lesions at various stages. Promoting Pap smear-related behaviors with an appropriate educational method is important.Method: To assess the effect of a blended educational program to promote performing the PST among Iranian women. In a randomized control trial four main variables; knowledge, attitude, self-efficacy, and practice about PST was evaluated using a man–made questionnaire for PST. Women aged 18-49 living in Andimeshk (Khuzestan, Iran), covered by 16 health centers, and participated in study from November 2019 till April 2019. The educational intervention conducted to increasing women’s performing the PST. The experimental group received an intervention, whereas the control group received usual care. Participants were tested at four-time points: pre-test (baseline), post-test 1 (immediately after the program’s completion) post-test 2 (4 weeks after the program’s completion) and post-test 3 (12 weeks after the program completion).Results: A total of 84 women with average aged 32.27 (42 in the experimental group, 42 in the control group) were recruited from 16 health centers in Andimeshk, southern Iran. Significant group differences were found at different times in knowledge, attitude, self-efficacy, and practice about PSTConclusion: A blended method was effective in sustaining the effects of the educational program in the experimental group. The development of appropriate teaching method on restricted situation such as covid-19 pandemic to promote participation is suggested.Randomized controlled trial [IRCT20191206045626N1]
Blockchain-Based IoT Secured Energy-Efficient Collaborative Neighbor Discovery Protocol
Authors: Ye Dan
Published: July 2021

This paper proposes an Energy-efficient Secured Distributed Collaborative Neighbor Discovery protocol for IoT mobile sensing applications to enhance on IoT capabilities and efficiencies. Maximum throughput access control model with ultra-low-power constraints is proposed for blockchain-based IoT framework. Simulation result demonstrates the proposed protocol can achieve better discovery performance with minimum discovery latency and maximum duty cycle. Analysis of the comparison results present best choice of primes and duty cycle in the designed low-complexity algorithm.
Synergistic effect of chitosan derivative and DOPO for simultaneous improvement of flame retardancy and mechanical property of epoxy resin
Authors: Wang Junjie , Yu Xuejun , Dai Shengsong , Wang Xinyu , Pan Zhiquan , Zhou Hong
Published: July 2021

In this work, the effects of a chitosan-based derivative (CSA), DOPO and CSA-DOPO additives on the flammable properties of EP composites were systematically studied, where CSA was synthesized by a facile condensation between chitosan (CS) and 9-anthralaldehyde and. DOPO was 9, 10-dihydro-9-oxa-10- phosphaphenanthreene-10-oxide. The mass ratio of CS and 9-anthralaldehyde in CSA was determined by elemental analysis and theoretical calculation, which matched well with each other. Under the 8% addition in EP, EP/2.66%/5.34%DOPO sample was the only one, which passed the UL-94 rating and exhibited the highest LOI value of 36.4%. Compared with EP, the cone calorimeter test (CC) showed that the total smoke emission value and the peak heat release rate of the CSA and DOPO modified EP decreased 36.0% and 61.9%, respectively, and the residual char amount increased by 151%. The possible flame retardant mechanism of CSA/DOPO towards EP was proposed according to the results of the real time FTIR spectra at different pyrolysis temperatures, cone calorimeter and Py-GC/MS analysis for EP and EP/2.66%CSA/5.34%DOPO samples, and Raman spectra and XPS for their char residues. Moreover, the incorporation of CSA/DOPO effectively improved the mechanical properties, especially, the flexural strength was increased by 52.3%. It was proposed that CSA/DOPO plays roles in both vapor and condensed phases, and the synergistic effect of CSA and DOPO significantly improve the flame retardancy and mechanical strength of EP.
Characteristics of MPSoC Based On Dual Feedback Edge Triggered Flip Flop
Authors: D Satyaraj , V Bhanumathi
Published: July 2021

With the persistent scaling of semiconductor technology, the embedded multi-processor platforms lifetime reliability has been the primary concern for the industry. The advancements in technology permit several microprocessors integration, dedicated digital hardware, and at times mixed-signal circuits on a single silicon die, specifically multi-processor system-on-a-chip (MPSoC). In this paper, the design and analysis of CMOS based MPSoC is made. A CMOS based MPSoC is designed with 45nm technology. In this design, ADC converter is used in which 10-bit data is given as input, and are converted into digital data. A double feedback edge triggered flip flop is designed. The implementation of flip flop, based on both feedback and triggering process, is more effective in the elimination of error occurrence. Power Gating (PG) technique is proposed which exploits the stacking effect to achieve high energy efficiency. Binary controlled stacked SRAM cell, based on a parallel cross-coupling feedback controller, is implemented to reduce the leakage loss and ground bouncing noise. An inverter, based on NMOS and CMOS, is used for the inverting process. The input voltage of 5v is given and is varied. Then, a 2-bit counter is employed, which is responsible for counting down or counting up. The counter should count down if the signal is high. The counter should count up, if the signal is low. Thus, this design will be helpful in the implementation of compact processing system which may also be employed for many real-time applications where there is a need of compact device. The benefits of this multi processors integration will be helpful in speeding the process thereby reducing the leakage power loss, power consumption, delay factor and so on. The analysis of performance is carried out using CMOS based Tanner EDA, and the outcomes are represented.
Effects of Wetland Plant Biochars on Heavy Metal Immobilization and Enzyme Activity in Soils From the Yellow River Estuary
Authors: Zheng Lidi , Tong Chuan , Gao Jujuan , Xiao Rong
Published: July 2021

Estuarine wetlands provide a variety of ecosystem services, including carbon sinks, nitrogen removal, marine habitats, and climate regulation. However, many estuarine marshes are suffering from soil heavy metal pollution, which significantly affects soil enzyme activities that influence the carbon and nitrogen biogeochemical cycles in wetlands. To date, studies on the effects of wetland plant biochars on heavy metal adsorption and enzyme activity in estuarine wetland soil are limited. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of wetland plant biochars on the enzyme activity in heavy metal contaminated soil. The biochars were produced from Phragmites australis (PB), Suaeda salsa (SB), and Tamarix chinensis (TB) under different pyrolysis temperatures and times. The detected pyrolysis products showed that the ash, pH, electrical conductivity, and carbon content of the biochars increased significantly, while the production rate of the biochars decreased with increasing pyrolysis temperature and time. The results of the adsorption experiments indicated that biochar addition could effectively reduce the concentration of Pb and/or Cd in the Pb2+/Cd2+ single or mixed solutions, but the Pb2+ and Cd2+ in the mixed solution indicated a competitive adsorption. A 30-day incubation experiment was conducted using salt marsh soil amended with different biochar application rates to investigate the short-term effects of biochar addition on Pb and Cd immobilization. The PB and SB significantly immobilized Pb within the first 15 days, but Pb remobilized within the next 15-day period. In contrast, TB addition did not significantly fix Pb. Moreover, biochar addition promoted the conversion of Cd from the residue to the less immobile fractions. The addition of three types of plant biochar had no significant effect on the urease activity in wetland soil but significantly increased soil sucrase activity. PB and SB significantly promoted catalase activity, while TB significantly inhibited soil catalase activity.
The Effect of Surface Plasmon Resonances on Spherical Magneto-Plasmonic Fe3O4@Ag Core-Shell Nanoparticles
Authors: Yeneayehu Kinde , Senbeta Teshome , Mesfin Belayneh
Published: July 2021

In this work, the scattering, absorption, and extinction cross-sections of 𝐹𝑒3𝑂4@Ag core/shell spherical nanostructures embedded in a dielectric host matrix are investigated theoretically. Electrostatic approximation and Maxwell-Garnet effective medium theory are employed to obtain the effective electric permittivity and magnetic permeability, as well as the corresponding absorption, scattering, and extinction cross-sections. Likewise, for a fixed size of QDs (of radius 𝑎𝑠 = 10 nm) numerical analysis is performed to see the effect of varying the metal fraction (𝛽) and the permittivity (𝜀ℎ) of the host matrix on the magneto-plasmonic nanostructures. The results show that graphs of absorption, scattering, and extinction cross-sections as a function of wavelength have two sets of resonance peaks in the UV and visible regions. These sets of peaks arise due to the strong coupling of the surface plasmon oscillations of silver with the excitonic state of the semiconductor/dielectric at the inner (𝐹𝑒3𝑂4@Ag) and outer (Ag/host) interfaces. The absorption and scattering crosssections are blue-shifted in the first peak and red-shifted for the second set of peaks as 𝛽 increases. Similarly, the extinction cross-section possesses two sets of resonance peaks which are enhanced for an increase in 𝜀ℎ or decrease of 𝛽; keeping one of these two parameters constant at a time. The results obtained may be utilized in applications that incorporates both the plasmonic and magnetic effects in core/shell nanostructures.
Android Application Design with MIT App Inventor for Bluetooth Based Mobile Robot Control
Authors: TOP Ahmet , GÖKBULUT Muammer
Published: July 2021

In this study, a Bluetooth-based Android application interface is developed to perform a manual and automatic control of a four-wheel-driven mobile robot designed for education, research, health, military, and many other fields. The proposed application with MIT App Inventor consists of three components: the main screen, the manual control screen, and the automatic control screen. The main screen is where the actions of the control preference selection such as manual control and automatic control and the Bluetooth connection between the mobile robot and Android phone occur. When the robot is operated manually for calibration or manual positioning purposes, the manual control screen is employed to adjust the desired robot movement and speed by hand. In the case of the need for automatic motion control, the desired robot position and speed data are inserted into the mobile robot processor through the automatic control screen. At the first stage of the work, the proposed Android application is developed with the design and block editors of the MIT App Inventor. The compiled application is then installed on the Android phone. Next, the communication between the Arduino microcontroller used for the robot control with the Bluetooth protocol and the Android application is established. The accuracy of the data dispatched to the Arduino is tested on the serial connection screen. It is validated that the data from the Android application is transferred to Arduino smoothly. At the end of this study, the manual and automatic controls of the proposed mobile robot are performed experimentally and success of the coordination between the Android application and the mobile robot are demonstrated.
Determinants of Modern Contraceptive Utilization Among Married Women in sub-Saharan Africa; Multilevel Analysis of Recent Demographic and Health Survey
Authors: Tesema Zemenu Tadesse , Tesema Getayeneh Antehunegn , Boke Moges Muluneh , Akalu Temesgen Yihunie
Published: July 2021

Background

Family planning is a low-cost, high-impact public health and development strategy. Planned pregnancies are essential for both the child and mother’s health. However, there is a lack of evidence on modern contraceptive use and determinants in sub-Saharan Africa, hence this study aimed to determine the pooled prevalence and determinants of modern contraceptive utilization across Sub-Saharan Africa.
Methods

Thirty-six sub-Saharan African countries' demographic and health survey (DHS) data were used for pooled analysis. A total weighted sample of 322,525 married women was included in the study. Cross tabulations and summary statistics were done using STATA version 14 software. The pooled prevalence of modern contraceptive utilization with a 95% Confidence Interval (CI) was reported for sub- Saharan Africa countries. Four models were fitted to select the best-fitted model for the data using Likelihood Ratio (LLR) and Deviance. Model III was selected because of its highest LLR and Smallest deviance.
Results

The pooled estimate of modern contraception use in sub–Saharan African countries were 18.36% [95% CI: 18.24, 18.48], with highest in Lesotho (59.79%) and the lowest in Chad (5.04%). The odds of modern contraception utilization were increased; women living in East Africa (AOR = 1.47 (1.40, 1.54)), urban (AOR = 1.18 (1.14, 1.24)), women primary and secondary and above educational level (AOR = 1.49 (1.44, 1.55)), and (AOR = 1.66 (1.58, 1.74)) respectively, husband primary and secondary and above educational level (AOR = 1.38 (1.33, 1.42)) and (AOR = 1.38 (1.36, 1.47)), wealth status middle and rich (AOR = 1.17, (1.14, 1.21)) and (AOR = 1.29 (1.25, 1.34)) respectively, media exposure (AOR = 1.25 (1.22, 1.29)), Postnatal care(PNC) utilization (AOR = 1.25 (1.22, 1.29)), deliver at health facility (AOR = 1.74 (1.69, 1.79)), and birth order 2–4 and 5+ (AOR = 1.36 (1.31, 1.41)) and (AOR = 1.35 (1.28, 1.43)) whereas the odds of contraception use were decreased among women living in Central, and Western regions (AOR = 0.23 (0.22, 0.24)), and (AOR = 0.46 (0.40, 0.54)) respectively, women decided with husband and husband alone (AOR = 0.90 (0.87, 0.93)) and (AOR = 0.73 (0.71, 0.75)).
Conclusion

The uptake of modern contraception in sub-Saharan Africa is low compared to other developing region. Therefore, family planning program activities need to give attention to the rural resident, illiterate women and low wealth status community.
From Wastes To Functions: Preparation of Layered Double Hydroxides From Industrial Waste And Its Removal Performance Towards Phosphates
Authors: Xiao Liping , Li Yan , Kong Qiaoping , Lan Yunlong
Published: July 2021

To control eutrophication and recover phosphate from wastewater, a calcium carbide slag and red mud composite material (CR-LDH) was prepared using industrial waste as raw material for phosphorus adsorption. The morphology and structure of synthesized CR-LDH was characterized by FT-IR, SEM, EDS and XRD measurements. The experimental data can be well described by pseudo-second-order kinetics and Langmuir isotherm models, suggesting that the adsorption process of CR-LDH with respect to phosphate is a chemical and monolayer process. The theoretical maximum adsorption capacity obtained by Langmuir isotherm model is 16.06 mg·g-1 at 25 oC. The intra-particle diffusion model fitting results indicated that the adsorption of phosphate by CR-LDH was controlled by both liquid membrane diffusion and intra-particle diffusion. Phosphate was bound to CR-LDH via synergistic effect of physical adsorption, ion exchange, anion intercalation and chemical precipitation as evidenced from a combination of microscopic analysis and adsorption mechanism study. The actual phosphate-containing wastewater investigation showed that CR-LDH not only exhibited good removal effect on phosphate, but also could greatly reduce turbidity, COD and ammonia nitrogen, which was suitable for disposal of practical wastewater. These results indicate that CR-LDH can be considered as potential adsorbent for the treatment of phosphate-containing wastewater, which will be helpful to achieve the goal of "treating waste with waste and turning waste into treasure".
Comprehensive Evaluation of Environmental Dimension Reduction of Multi-Type Islands: A Sustainable Development Perspective
Authors: Chen Shaoyang , Liu Na , Xiao Li , Gong Yanwei , Xiao Yun
Published: July 2021

In recent years, the exploration and sustainable development of islands is getting more and more attention around the world. However, the development of China's islands is somewhat disorder and spatial unbalanced. Therefore, we need to conduct a scientific assessment of the islands in order to fully understand the islands. In this paper, We analyze the possible development path of the islands by evaluating the value of the islands. To be specific, we present an extensive evaluate model design based on analysis of the environmental resources conditions, economic values, and existing problems of the seven typical islands in China. This model is applied to evaluate the sustainability levels and development advantages of seven typical islands. The island’s evaluation results are consistent with the island’s actual development level, which proves that the model is believable. Generally, the more indicators involved in the evaluation model, the more accurate the evaluation result will be. However, numerous indicators will cause two problems. One is that some indicators are highly correlated and make the evaluation results inaccurate. Therefore, it is necessary to remove redundant indicators; the other is that the calculation process will be cumbersome. In this study, we used factor analysis to solve the problems, making the evaluation results more accurate. Meantime, the experiment has proved that the model can simultaneously use multiple types of islands as samples for unified evaluation.
CRISPR-Cas-amplified urine biomarkers for multiplexed and portable cancer diagnostics
Authors: Hao Liangliang , Zhao Renee , Ngambenjawong Chayanon , Ko Henry , Fleming Heather , Bhatia Sangeeta
Published: July 2021

Synthetic biomarkers, exogenous probes that generate molecular reporters, represent an emerging paradigm in precision diagnostics with applications across infectious and noncommunicable diseases. These methods use multiplexing strategies to provide tools that are both sensitive and specific. However, the field of synthetic biomarkers has not benefited from molecular strategies such as DNA-barcoding due to the susceptibility of nucleic acids in vivo. Herein, we exploit chemically-stabilized DNAs to tag synthetic biomarkers and produce diagnostic signals via CRISPR nucleases. Our strategy capitalizes on disease-associated, protease-activated release of nucleic acid barcodes and polymerase-amplification-free, CRISPR-Cas-mediated barcode detection in unprocessed biofluids. In murine cancer models, we show that these DNA-encoded nanosensors can noninvasively detect and monitor disease progression, and demonstrate that nuclease amplification can be harnessed to convert the readout to a point-of-care tool. This technique combines specificity with ease of use to offer a new platform to study human disease and guide therapeutic decisions.
Interaction Between Insecticide Resistance-Associated Genes and Malaria Transmission in Anopheles Gambiae S. L. During a Cluster-Randomized Controlled Trial of A “lethal House Lure” in Central Côte D’ivoire
Authors: Wolie Rosine Z. , Koffi Alphonsine A. , Alou Ludovic P. Ahoua , Sternberg Eleanore D. , N’Nan-Alla Oulo , Dahounto Amal , Yapo Florent H.A. , Kanh Kpahe H.M. , Camara Soromane , Oumbouke Welbeck A. , Tia Innocent Z. , Nguetta Prof. Simon-Pierre A. , Thomas Prof. Matthew B. , N’Guessan Raphael
Published: July 2021

Background

There is evidence that the Kdr L1014F and Ace-1R G119S mutations involved in pyrethroid and carbamate resistance in Anopheles gambiae influence malaria transmission in sub Saharan Africa. This is likely due to changes in behavior, life history, vectorial competence and capacity. In the present study, performed as part of a two-armed cluster randomized controlled trial (CRT) evaluating the impact of household screening plus a novel insecticide delivery system (In2Care EaveTubes), we investigated the distribution of insecticide target site mutations and their association with the infection status in wild An. gambiae s.l populations.
Methods

Mosquitoes were captured in 40 villages around Bouaké by human landing catches (HLC), from May 2017 to April 2019. Randomly selected sample of infected and uninfected An.gambiae s.l. with Plasmodium sp. were identified to species and then genotyped for Kdr L1014F and Ace-1R G119S mutations using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assays. The frequencies of the two alleles were compared between An. coluzzii and An. gambiae and then between infected and uninfected groups for each species.
Results

The presence of An. gambiae (49 %) and An. coluzzii (51%) was confirmed in Bouaké. Both species seemed to transmit equally Plasmodium parasites. Over the study period, the average frequency of the Kdr L1014F and Ace-1R G119S mutations did not vary significantly between study arms. However, the frequency of the Kdr L1014F and Ace-1R G119S resistance alleles were significantly higher in An. gambiae than in An. coluzzii (OR [95%CI]: 59.64 [30.81-131.63] for Kdr and OR [95%CI]: 2.79 [2.17–3.60], for Ace-1R). For both species, there were no significant differences in Kdr L1014F or Ace-1R G119S genotypic and allelic frequency distribution between infected and uninfected specimens (p > 0.05).
Conclusions

Either alone or in combination, Kdr L1014F and Ace-1R G119S showed no significant association with Plasmodium infection in wild An.gambiae and An. coluzzii, demonstrating similar competence for Plasmodium transmission in Bouaké. Additional factors influencing competence in natural population and those outside allele measurements contributing to resistance should be consider when establishing link between insecticide resistance and vector competence.