bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Globally optimal OCT surface segmentation using a constrained IPM optimization
Authors: Xie Hui , Pan Zhe , Zhou Leixin , Zaman Fahim A. , Chen Danny Z. , Jonas Jost B. , Xu Weiyu , Wang Ya Xing , Wu Xiaodong
Published: January 2022

Segmentation of multiple surfaces in optical coherence tomography (OCT) images is a challenging problem, further complicated by the frequent presence of weak boundaries, varying layer thicknesses, and mutual influence between adjacent surfaces. The traditional graph-based optimal surface segmentation method has proven its effectiveness with its ability to capture various surface priors in a uniform graph model. However, its efficacy heavily relies on handcrafted features that are used to define the surface cost for the “goodness” of a surface. Recently, deep learning (DL) is emerging as a powerful tool for medical image segmentation thanks to its superior feature learning capability. Unfortunately, due to the scarcity of training data in medical imaging, it is nontrivial for DL networks to implicitly learn the global structure of the target surfaces, including surface interactions. This study proposes to parameterize the surface cost functions in the graph model and leverage DL to learn those parameters. The multiple optimal surfaces are then simultaneously detected by minimizing the total surface cost while explicitly enforcing the mutual surface interaction constraints. The optimization problem is solved by the primal-dual interior-point method (IPM), which can be implemented by a layer of neural networks, enabling efficient end-to-end training of the whole network. Experiments on spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) retinal layer segmentation demonstrated promising segmentation results with sub-pixel accuracy.
Respiratory fabric sensor based on the side luminescence and photosensitivity mechanism of polymer optical fibers
Authors: Zhang Meiling , Zhao Meiling , Zhang Cheng , Sun Zheng , Zhao Xiaoxue , Miao Changyun , Wang Zhangang
Published: January 2022

It is significant to monitor respiration conveniently and in real time for people suffering from respiratory diseases. Polymer optical fibers (POFs) have the advantages of flexibility and light weight, which is highly desirable for wearable respiratory monitoring. However, in most current applications, the POFs are stitched on the textile substrates in the form of macro-bending. This method is complex to fix the bending with certain curvatures and uncomfortable compared with the POF sensors woven into the textile. In this paper, a respiratory fabric sensor based on the side luminescence and photosensitivity mechanism of POF is proposed and demonstrated. The 750µm-diameter POFs were woven into a fabric as warp and laser marking was performed at their designed positions to make them release or couple light. The spacing change between the POFs caused by the respiratory movement accordingly makes the light intensity change in the photosensitive fiber. We chose four fabric widths (10cm, 8cm, 6cm and 4cm) and four fabric weaves (plain weave, honeycomb weave, 1/3 right twill weave and 8/3 warp satin weave) to implement the full-factor experiment for exploring the measurement effect of the respiratory fabric sensor. The result is that the fabric with width of 4cm and weave of 8/3 warp satin is optimal. The calm and deep respiratory tests of the human chest and abdomen in sitting and standing posture were carried out and the test performance of the fabric sensor is almost comparable to that of the medical monitor. The proposed respiratory fabric sensor is comfortable, easily woven and high in precision, which is expected to realize industrialized scale production.
Kalman filter polarization demultiplexing algorithm based on diagonalized matrix treatment
Authors: Zhang Qi , Cui Nan , Li Xue , Zhang Xiaoguang , Xi Lixia
Published: January 2022

When we implement the equalizations of polarization effects using a Kalman filter (KF) in a coherent optical fiber communication system, we will require to multiply many matrices. If the state vector describing the system has a dimension of n, the state error covariance matrix P will have the dimension of n × n, and other matrices used in the Kalman filter will also have the dimension of n × l (l is the dimension of the measurement vector). If n is very large, the KF-based algorithm will suffer from significant complexity, which results in an impractical KF-based polarization demultiplexing algorithm. In this paper, we propose a new structured KF-based polarization demultiplexing algorithm in which the state error covariance matrix P is diagonalized, which we call the diagonalized Kalman filter (DKF). We theoretically analyze the rationality of the DKF, and the validity of the DKF was verified in both 64 Gbaud polarization-division multiplexed (PDM) QPSK and 16QAM Nyquist coherent optical simulation systems. Compared with the conventional KF, simulation results proved that under a rotation of state of polarization from 1 to 10 Mrad/s for QPSK and 1 to 5 Mrad/s for 16QAM, a differential group delay from 15 to 75 ps, and a residual chromatic dispersion of 100 ps/nm, the OSNR penalties for the DKF are only within 0.5 dB for QPSK at the threshold BER = 3.8 × 10−3, and within 2 dB for 16-QAM at the threshold BER = 2 × 10−2, respectively, compare to the case of no impairment. In the meantime, for the proposed DKF, a computational complexity reduction of over 30% is achieved, compared with conventional KF, at the expense of about no more than 50 symbols convergence delay.
Terahertz tunable optically induced lattice in the magnetized monolayer graphene
Authors: Wen Feng , Zhang Shaowei , Hui Sijia , Ma Hanghang , Wang Sijia , Ye Huapeng , Wang Wei , Zhu Tianfei , Zhang Yanpeng , Wang Hongxing
Published: January 2022

The emergence of monolayer material has opened new avenue for manipulating light beyond the capability of traditional optics. However, controlling the terahertz (THz) wave with magnetized monolayer graphene based on multi-beam interference method is interesting but yet reported. In this article, we report an optically induced lattice with tunability in THz by interfering four plane waves in the magnetized monolayer graphene. We show that the optical properties of the induced optical lattice can be efficiently tuned by varying the optical parameter of the interference beams (i.e., the photon detuning and the Rabi frequency), resulting in both amplitude- and phase-type lattice. Based on Fraunhofer diffraction theory, it is found that the far-field diffraction efficiency is adjustable via varying the probe detuning. Moreover, it is also found that the probe field is diffracted into the high-order direction when the photon detuning is within the triangle-like anti-centrosymmetric region. Such a tunable THz lattice may provide a versatile tool for all-optical switching at the few photons level and paves the way for next generation high-speed wireless communication.
Out-of-pocket costs near end of life in low- and middle-income countries: A systematic review
Authors: Reid Eleanor , Ghoshal Arunangshu , Khalil Aisha , Jiang Jingjing , Normand Charles , Brackett Alexandria , May Peter
Published: January 2022

Background

Globally, there is a rise in chronic disease, including cancer, major organ failure and dementias. Patients and their families in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) pay a high proportion of medical costs out of pocket (OOP), and a diagnosis of serious illness often has catastrophic financial consequences. We therefore conducted a review of the literature to establish what is known about OOP costs near end of life in LMICs.

Aims

To identify, organise and report the evidence on out-of-pocket costs in adult end-of-life populations in LMIC.

Methods

A systematic search of 8 databases and a hand search of relevant systematic reviews and grey literature was performed. Two independent reviewers screened titles and abstracts, assessed papers for eligibility and extracted data. The review was registered with PROSPERO and adhered to the Preferred Reporting items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analyses. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool was used to assess quality. The Wagstaff taxonomy was used to describe OOP.

Results

After deduplication, 9,343 studies were screened, of which 51 were read and rejected as full texts, and 12 were included in the final review. OOP costs increased with advanced illness and disease severity. The main drivers of OOP were medications and hospitalizations, with high but variable percentages of the affected populations reporting financial catastrophe, lost income, foregone education and other pressures.

Conclusion

Despite a small number of included studies and heterogeneity in methodology and reporting, it is clear that OOP costs for care near end of life in LMIC represent an important source of catastrophic health expenditures and impoverishment. This suggests a role for widespread, targeted efforts to avoid poverty traps. Financial protection policies for those suffering from incurable disease and future research on the macro- and micro- economics of palliative care delivery in LMIC are greatly needed.
Early observations from the HIV self-testing program among key populations and sexual partners of pregnant mothers in Kampala, Uganda: A cross sectional study
Authors: Nasuuna Esther , Namimbi Florence , Muwanguzi Patience A. , Kabatesi Donna , Apolot Madina , Muganzi Alex , Kigozi Joanita
Published: January 2022

Background

HIV self-testing (HIVST) was adopted for key populations (KPs) and sexual partners of pregnant and lactating women (mothers) in Uganda in October 2018. We report early observations during HIVST implementation in Kampala, Uganda.

Methods

HIVST was rolled out to reach those with unknown HIV status at 38 public health facilities, using peer-to-peer community-based distribution for female sex workers (FSW) and men who have sex with men (MSM) and secondary distribution for mothers, who gave HIVST kits to their partners. Self-testers were asked to report results within 2 days; those who did not report received a follow-up phone call from a trained health worker. Those with HIV-positive results were offered confirmatory testing at the facility using the standard HIV-testing algorithm. Data on kits distributed, testing yield, and linkage to care were analysed.

Results

We distributed 9,378 HIVST kits. Mothers received 5,212 (56%) for their sexual partners while KPs received 4,166 (44%) (MSM, 2192 [53%]; FSW1, 974, [47%]). Of all kits distributed, 252 (3%) individuals had HIV-positive results; 126 (6.5%) FSW, 52 (2.3%) MSM and 74 (1.4%) partners of mothers. Out of 252 individuals who had HIV-positive results, 170 (67%) were confirmed HIV-positive; 36 (2%) were partners of mothers, 99 (58%) were FSW, and 35 (21%) were MSM. Linkage to treatment (126) was 74%.

Conclusions

HIVST efficiently reached, tested, identified and modestly linked to care HIV positive FSW, MSM, and partners of mothers. However, further barriers to confirmatory testing and linkage to care for HIV-positive self-testers remain unexplored.
Performance of custom made videolaryngoscope for endotracheal intubation: A systematic review
Authors: Hamal Pawan Kumar , Yadav Rupesh Kumar , Malla Pragya
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Videolaryngoscope is regarded as the standard of care for airway management in well-resourced setups however the technology is largely inaccessible and costly in middle and low-income countries. An improvised and cost-effective form of customized videolaryngoscope was proposed and studied for patient care in underprivileged areas however there were no distinct conclusions on its performances.

Method

The study follows PRISMA guidelines for systematic review and the protocol in International Prospective Register for Systematic Reviews. The primary aim was to assess the first attempt success of customized videolaryngoscope for endotracheal intubation. The secondary objective was to evaluate the number of attempts, laryngoscopic view in terms of Cormack Lehane score and Percentage of glottic opening, use of external laryngeal maneuver and stylet and, the airway injuries after the endotracheal intubation.

Result

Five studies were analyzed for risk of bias using the National Institute of Health Quality Assessment Tool for cross-sectional studies. Most of the studies had a poor to a fair level of evidence with only one study with a good level of evidence. Certainty of evidence was “very low” for all eligible studies when graded using the Grading of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach for systematic review.

Conclusions

The certainty of the evidence regarding performance of custom-made videolaryngoscope compared to conventional laryngoscope was very low and the study was performed in small numbers with fair to the poor risk of bias. It was difficult to establish and do further analysis regarding whether the customized form of videolaryngoscope will improve the first attempt success rate for tracheal intubation, reduce the number of attempts, improve the laryngoscopic view, require fewer external aids and reduce the incidences of airway injury with the given low-grade evidence. Some properly conducted randomised clinical trials will be required to further analyze the outcome and make the strong recommendations.
Anemia and undernutrition in intestinally parasitized schoolchildren from Gakenke district, Northern Province of Rwanda
Authors: Irisarri-Gutiérrez María José , Acosta Lucrecia , Parker Lucy Anne , Toledo Rafael , Bornay-Llinares Fernando Jorge , Esteban José Guillermo , Muñoz-Antolí Carla
Published: January 2022

Background

Rwanda is a sub-Saharan country, where intestinal parasite infections, anemia and undernutrition coexist. The purpose of this research is to study the relationship between intestinal parasite infections and undernutrition/anemia to clarify the priorities of intervention in the rural area of Gakenke district in the Northern Province of Rwanda.

Materials and methods

A total of 674 students from Nemba I School, participated in a cross-sectional study, in which their parasitological and nutritional status were analysed. Statistical analysis was performed by χ2 test, univariate analysis and Odds ratios (OR).

Results

A total of 95.3% of children presented intestinal parasitism, most of whom (94.5%) infected by protozoa and 36.1% infected by soil-transmitted helminths (STH), with Trichuris trichiura (27.3%) being the most prevalent. Multiple infections were found to be high (83.8%), with protozoa and STH co-infections in 30.6%. STH infections were mainly of low/moderate intensity. Neither infection nor STH infection of any intensity profile, was significantly related to anemia. In addition, STH infection, regardless of the intensity profile, was not associated with stunting, underweight or thinness. There was no difference between genders nor among ages in odds of anemia and nutritional status in STH-infected schoolchildren.

Conclusion

Multiparasitism remains high among Rwandan schoolchildren and is likely to cause nutritional problems. This work emphasizes the importance of keeping up health programs to reduce the prevalence of infection.
El Dúo Pimpinela en la transición democrática argentina: una escucha política
Authors: F. Díaz Claudio
Published: January 2022

En el presente trabajo propongo una escucha en clave política de algunas canciones del Dúo Pimpinela. Estos artistas se hicieron conocidos a principios de la década de los ochenta del siglo pasado con una propuesta innovadora que combinaba los temas y formas musicales de la balada romántica con estructuras dramáticas propias del teatro, para representar escenas basadas en las peleas y rupturas de pareja. Las canciones de pelea, si bien mostraron la capacidad de interpelar masivamente al público, no se han pensado en vinculación con el proceso de transición democrática que se iniciaba en esos años con el debilitamiento de la dictadura, principalmente después de la guerra de Malvinas. Sin embargo, una escucha en clave política se hace posible si se vinculan la crisis de las relaciones entre los géneros, en especial las relaciones matrimoniales, por una parte, con un amplio conjunto de demandas de democratización que caracterizaron el período, por otra. Para fundar esa escucha política, propongo recuperar dos nociones de larga trayectoria en los estudios culturales: la de “inconsciente político”, desenvolvida por Frederic Jameson, y la de “estructura de sentimiento”, propuesta por Raymond Williams.
Um artesão entre a honra e a infâmia: a trama de um ourives alentejano na Inquisição portuguesa
Authors: Rodrigues Lopes Luiz Fernando
Published: January 2022

O interesse central deste artigo é, a partir da reconstituição e da análise da trajetória do ourives do ouro Antônio Pereira Colaço, compreender os meandros institucionais do Tribunal do Santo Ofício em seu exercício de classificação social, com especial atenção ao peso que a fama pública teve na avaliação de candidaturas em dois momentos diferentes da história desse órgão. O roteiro de vida do personagem, que foi de aspirante a familiar do Santo Ofício a réu preso e processado pela Inquisição, faz de sua trajetória um arquétipo processual bastante representativo das conjunturas vividas por muitos frente ao poder punitivo e também classificatório da instituição. O exame desse enredo visa colaborar com a compreensão da historicidade dos regimes simbólicos do provimento inquisitorial e, em alguma medida, com a mensuração do impacto que teve a Inquisição na estigmatização e na exclusão social no Antigo Regime português.
Escrita literária, leitura filosófica: as Canções sem metro, de Raul Pompeia
Authors: Severo Marconi
Published: January 2022

Este texto é dedicado à análise de Can- ções sem metro, de Raul Pompeia. Sustento aqui dois argumentos que, de certa forma, estendem-se a todo o legado artístico-literário do escritor: em primeiro lugar, abordo o pessimismo frequentemente atribuído a ele, e supostamente realçado em tal obra, o que acredito tratar-se de uma interpretação equivocada; e, em segundo lugar, entendo que, para o autor, o ser humano é essencialmente mau, fato que coloca em dúvida tanto os usos que a humanidade faz dos recursos naturais, quanto as relações estabelecidas entre os homens. Por outro lado, e apesar de sua concepção negativa da natureza humana, argumento que Pompeia não deixa de crer na possibilidade de uma sociedade melhor, conforme expressa por meio da ideia de “progresso relativo” e do ideal de “esperança”.
O silêncio da antiga Musa
Authors: Gomes Oliveira Pinto Rodrigo
Published: January 2022

O silêncio da antiga Musa é evocado nos versos finais da proposição de Os lusíadas (1572), de Luís de Camões, a fim de que, cessados os cantos que notabilizaram a fama de heróis como Odisseu ou Eneias, possa ser entoado e ouvido um canto de maior valor, que, com “engenho & arte”, louva as façanhas de “barões assinalados”, cujas ações dilataram o império lusitano e a cristandade, nos séculos XV e XVI. O silêncio é conclamação de engrandecimento da matéria camoniana, é locus epidítico que evidencia as práticas compositivas de imitação e de emulação no gênero épico, consoante a autoridade homérica, ao passo que a Musa, filha de Zeus e da Memória, Calíope – posto que presida o gênero em que Camões escreve, mesmo se fosse invocada no poema, e não as fictícias Tágides –, não evoca como nume a verdade de todas as coisas, porque nada anima; ela ornamenta e denota as convenções eruditas de verossimilhança e de adequação da ficção em Os lusíadas, mirando o deleite discreto e a instrução, sempre muito obediente e muito cristã, dos letrados portugueses seiscentistas.
Das ficções do livro à mão do historiador
Authors: Da Silva Camargo Maicon
Published: January 2022

No rastro de práticas que se manifestaram já no século XIX, com a revolução historiográfica dos Annales as obras literárias se tornaram objeto de análise dos historiadores. A partir daí, um problema latente, mas não comumente apresentado como tal, colocou-se: qual a contribuição da disciplina histórica às análises literárias? A recente publicação do consagrado historiador Roger Chartier, Mobilidade e materialidade dos textos: traduzir nos séculos XVI e XVII, embora não trate da questão que levantamos, produz tanto reflexões que nos permitem compreender tal problemática quanto, por sua própria prática historiográfica, corrobora para ilustrar um modo de historicizar obras literá- rias e livros em geral.
Allometric equations to estimate the leaf area of Psychotria colorata (Willd. Ex Schult.) Müll.Arg.
Authors: Ribeiro João Everthon da Silva , Romário Andrade Figueiredo Francisco , Dos Santos Coêlho Ester , Ferreira Melo Marlenildo
Published: January 2022

Estimating leaf area using non-destructive methods from regression equations has become a more efficient, quick, and accurate way. Thus, this study aimed to propose an equation that significantly estimates the leaf area of Psychotria colorata (Rubiaceae) through linear leaf dimensions. For this purpose, 200 leaves of different shapes were collected, and length (L), width (W), product of length by width (L.W), and real leaf area (LA) of each leaf blade were determined. Then, equations were adjusted for predicting leaf area using simple linear, linear (0.0), quadratic, cubic, power, and exponential regression models. The proposed equation was selected according to the coefficient of determination (R²), Willmott's agreement index (d), Akaike's information criterion (AIC), mean absolute error (MAE), mean squared error (RMSE) and BIAS index. It was noted that the equations adjusted using L.W met the best criteria for estimating leaf area, but the equation LA = 0.59 * L.W from linear regression without intercept was the most suitable. This equation predicts that 59% of leaf area is explained by L.W. Concluding, the leaf area of P. colorata can be estimated using an allometric equation that uses linear leaf blade dimensions.
Agronomic and sensory evaluation of lettuce in hydroponic system
Authors: Jefferson de Sá Jean , Medeiros Vicentini-Polette Carolina , Verruma-Bernardi Marta Regina , Fillet Spoto Marta Helena , Sala Fernando César
Published: January 2022

Lettuce is the most important leafy vegetable in Brazil. Hydroponic lettuce cultivation has grown due to the viability of harvesting throughout the year. In this context, this study aimed to evaluate the agronomic characteristics, color, and preference of curly lettuce in the NFT hydroponic system. Six lineages (6601-1A, 6601-2L, 7016-6A, 7119-1B, 7223-1A, and 7224-4A) and two commercial cultivars (Brida and Vanda) of lettuce were used, in a completely randomized blocks design with four replications. Shoot length, root length, stem length, number of leaves, stem diameter, plant diameter, shoot fresh mass, root fresh mass, chlorophyll content, instrumental color, and sensory characteristics were evaluated. As for agronomic evaluation, the bolting of 6601-2L lettuce was relevant in different attributes. The Vanda lettuce and the lineage 7016-6A presented best performances for shoot fresh mass (399.44 and 378.63 g, respectively), while the lineages 7119-1B and 6601-2L present the worst performance (279.50 and 273.13 g, respectively). There was variation in chlorophyll content and luminosity, however, the evaluators did not notice differences between lettuces for brightness or green color, as well as for crunchy texture. Lettuces 6601-2L, 7224-4A, 6601-1A, Brida, 7223-1A, and 7119-1B were preferred. The variation among plants may be due to different situations, such as harvesting times and bolting, and a direct relationship between agronomic properties and preference among lettuces has not been established yet.
Investigating the influence of pinhão manso (Jatropha curcas) seed endocarp on the acidity index of the extracted oil
Authors: Vaz Pinheiro Neto José
Published: January 2022

Biodiesel is a clean and cyclical energy resource that is derived from animal and/or vegetable fat. As it blends well with petrodiesel, biodiesel is added to Brazilian commercial diesel. The main raw materials used to produce biodiesel in Brazil include soybean, corn, and sunflower oils. However, these are also used for human consumption and hence, have a high market value. Therefore, pinhão manso oil, which exhibits high productivity at low cost, is a promising alternative. However, the high acidity index of this oil results in a low transesterification yield and the produced biofuel does not meet the requirements imposed by the ANP. Thus, this study intends to demonstrate that a large part of the free fatty acids in pinion oil are present in the seed endocarp. For the development of the project, the oil was extracted by hot solvent, using the soxhlet equipment and the hexane solvent, to determine the acidity index, the titration technique was used, the titrant used was sodium hydroxide. So the acidity index of the oil extracted from the seed with its shell is 10.9 mgKOH/g, while the lipid obtained without the shell exhibits a value of 0.95 mgKOH/g, proving the influence of the endocarp.
Enzymatic activity and gene expression related to drought stress tolerance in maize seeds and seedlings
Authors: Christy Santos Milena , Vilela de Resende Von Pinho Édila , Oliveira dos Santos Heloisa , Rezende Vilela Danielle , Costa Silva Neta Izabel , Maria de Abreu Viviane , Coelho de Castro Vasconcellos Renato
Published: January 2022

Drought stress is a major limiting factor for the development of maize, and the identification of the expression of genes related to this stress in seeds and seedlings can be an important tool to accelerate the selection process. The expression of genes related to tolerance to water deficit in seeds and in different tissues of maize seedlings were evaluated. Four tolerant genotypes (91-T, 32-T, 91x75-T, 32x75-T) and four non-tolerant genotypes (37-NT, 57-NT, 37x57-NT and 31x37-NT) were seeded in a substrate with 10% (stress) and 70% (control) water retention capacity. The expression of 4 enzymes were evaluated: catalase (CAT), peroxidase (PO), esterase (EST), and heat-resistant protein (HRP), as well as the relative expression of 6 genes: ZmLEA3, ZmPP2C, ZmCPK11, ZmDREB2A/2.1s, ZmDBP3 and ZmAN13 were evaluated in seed, shoots and roots of seedlings submitted or not to stress. There was variation in the expression of CAT, PO, SOD, EST and HRP enzymes among the evaluated genotypes and also in the different tissues evaluated. Higher expression of the CAT and PO was observed in the shoots. There was a greater expression of the EST in the genotypes non-tolerant to water deficit. HRP was expressed only in seeds. In the aerial part of maize seedlings, classified as tolerant, higher expression of genes ZmLEA3 and ZmCPK11 was observed. There was a higher expression of the ZmAN13 and ZmDREB2A/2.1S genes in roots developed under stress conditions and a higher expression of the ZmPP2C gene in seeds of line 91-T, which is classified as tolerant to drought stress.
Genetic diversity and structure in natural populations of Cajui from Brazilian Cerrado
Authors: Da Costa Gomes Maria Fernanda , Nazaré Costa Borges Artemisa , Sarah Sales Batista Giovana , De Andrade Luz Gizele , Alencar Oliveira Maria Edileide , De Almeida Lopes Ângela Celis , Ferreira de Araújo Ademir Sérgio , Ferreira Gomes Regina Lúcia , Barros Britto Fábio , Sarmanho da Costa Lima Paulo , Emílio dos Santos Valente Sérgio
Published: January 2022

Cajui (Anacardium spp.) is a native fruit tree (small cashew) of the Brazilian Cerrado and possesses the potential for commercialization. However, cajui exploitation occurs exclusively through extractivism in the absence of conservation strategies. The lack of conservation strategies may lead to a decrease in genetic diversity of Anacardium. In this work, the genetic diversity and population structure of three natural populations in Sete Cidades National Park (PNSC; PI, Brazil) were assessed using ISSR analysis of 56 cajui accessions and two A. occidentale accessions (outgroup) from Pacajus (CE, Brazil). A total of 112 markers were obtained, 93 (83.04%) of which were polymorphic. The diversity indices of these populations indicated moderate levels of genetic diversity. According to AMOVA, 96.17% of the genetic variability lay within populations, with low genetic differentiation among populations (ΦST = 0.03828). Furthermore, STRUCTURE analysis indicated the existence of four connected genetic groups. The findings show that the individuals from the three collection sites did not represent different subpopulations, likely due to the high gene flow (Nm = 6.7) favored by the floral biology of Anacardium, pollinators and small-animal seed dispersers. This research identifies genetically divergent individuals (C-03, C-05, C-22, C-26, C-34 and C-39), which should be considered priority individuals for conservation and can inform conservation programs for Anacardium spp.
Effects of auriculopalpebral nerve block on ocular parameters in dogs
Authors: Luz Laura da Costa , Amaral Andréia Vitor Couto do , Guimarães Jéssica Ribeiro , Silva Anne Caroline Assis , Neves Carolina Araújo , Cangussu Lanay Coímbra , Regalin Doughlas
Published: January 2022

The objective of this study was to compare the effects of two local anesthetics used on auriculopalpebral block on eyelid akinesia, tear production, intraocular pressure (IOP) and tear break-up time (TBUT) in conscious dogs. A blind, randomized, prospective study was conducted to determine the effects of auriculopalpebral block using ropivacaine 0.75% and bupivacaine 0.5% in 12 healthy non-brachycephalic dogs (24 eyes). Threat response and eyelid reflex tests, Schirmer tear test (STT), IOP and tear break-up time were conducted before blockage and at 30, 60, 120, 240 and 360 minutes after application. A difference was observed between the values found at 30, 60, 120 and 240 minutes compared to baseline for threat response and eyelid reflex tests in the two groups evaluated, proving eyelid akinesia after blockages. No difference was found for STT, IOP and TBUT between baseline values and post-anesthesia times or between groups. It was possible to conclude that ropivacaine and bupivacaine on auriculopalpebral block in conscious dogs promoted eyelid akinesia for at least 240 minutes, not altering ocular physiological parameters of tear production, intraocular pressure, and tear break-up time after blockages.
Improving the method for determining the physiological and sanitary potential of Gherkin seeds
Authors: Catão Hugo Cesar Rodrigues Moreira , Menegon Castilho Ítala , Caixeta Franciele , Donizete Tebaldi Nilvanira , Gomes Nakada Freitas Pâmela
Published: January 2022

Gherkin seeds usually show irregular physiological quality. Seed production requires fast and reliable tests to evaluate seed quality. Germination test is considered a recognized analysis method; however, seed technology has pursuit the improvement of vigor tests aiming the evaluation of seed’s physiological potential. Thus, the objective of this work was to evaluate procedures to perform the test of accelerated aging and determine the physiological and sanitary potential of gherkin seeds. Four seed lots of cultivar Liso Calcuta were used in the study. To evaluate the initial physiological quality the water content was determined and germination and emergence tests, as well as indices of germination speed and emergence speed were used. The accelerated aging test was performed as traditionally and with saturated saline solution, with 48, 72 and 96 hours, at temperatures of 41oC and 45oC. After aging, the water content was determined, and seeds’ germination and sanity tests were performed. The experiment was set under a completely random design in factorial 4x3x2 (lots x aging periods x temperatures). The standard accelerated aging test and the test with saturated saline solution at 41oC for 96 hours were efficient to evaluate the vigor of gherkin seeds. Saturated saline solution provides uniform water absorption and deterioration in gherkin seeds, allowing to discriminate seed lots in different vigor levels. The salinity test after accelerated aging with saline solution reduces the incidence of some fungi.
Supernumerary teeth in premolar and molar area on CBCT: a pictorial review.
Authors: Olszewski Raphael , Shimwa-Karengera Stéphane , Gurniak Anna , Gurniak Eliza , Serve Alexis , Simain Sato Franklin
Published: January 2022

Objective: to build a descriptive classification of premolar and molar supernumerary teeth (ST) when preparing the cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) report. The aim is also to share wide range of CBCT images in the open access publishing model. Material and methods: For our review we systematically searched for articles from PubMed with 1) free full texts on ST in molar and premolar area and using CBCT, and 2) articles providing with information on complications related with the presence of ST in molar and premolar area. We also added to our review studies providing with classic ST classifications in premolar and molar area. Results: We found 29 cases of ST, and we freely illustrated them with 84 figures. We separated our pictorial review in: 1) unilateral ST in the mandible, 2) unilateral ST in the maxilla, 3) unilateral undersized ST, 4) bilateral ST, 5) ST with additional features, and 6) cases with major hyperdontia. Conclusions: we build up the classification matrix for premolar and molar ST with 11 descriptors and 50 boxes. The descriptors were: 1) location if the ST crown in axial view, 2) vertical location of the cusp tip in relation with closest erupted tooth in coronal view, 3) shape, 4) distribution, 5) Position (in relation to normal tooth eruption) in sagittal view, 6) State of eruption of the ST in the sagittal view, 7) Follicle size measurement in sagittal view, 8) External root resorption of adjacent teeth by ST and its location in relation to the long axis of the involved tooth, 9) Internal resorption of ST, 10) Adjacent tooth complication, and 11) Damage to surrounding structures if ST removal. The open access figures from the literature illustrated 11 boxes. With our pictorial review we were able to illustrate 45 out of 50 boxes, and freely provide the readership with the most complete description of ST in premolar and molar area on CBCT than in previously published studies.
The Effects of Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) Using ‘Wh-questions’ on Sentence Speaking of Student with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Kang Youngmo , Jo Ahra , Son Seung Hyun ,   Korean Society of Augmentative and Alternative Communication
Published: January 2022

Background and Objective: This study examined the effects of the picture exchange communication system (PECS) using ‘Wh- questions’ on the sentence speaking of a student with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Method: The participant is a middle course student with ASD, currently attending a special education school. Sentence speaking means speaking sentences using all the vocabulary picture cards listed in the communication book. This refers to: 1) Answering the teacher’s questions in sentences, 2) Speaking with sentences while looking at the picture cards, 3) Repeating the sentences spoken by the teacher. PECS using the ‘Wh- questions’ is to first present ‘Wh- questions’ to remind the sentence components necessary to speak. Then teach sentence speaking to the student by identifying the vocabulary picture card corresponding to the components and composing the sentence on the PECS communication book. The changing criterion design was used, and the functional relation was proven by adjusting the criterion size and the section length. This is shown in the 3rd and 4th sections of the intervention. Results: As a result of the visual analysis, the percent of correct responses of sentence speaking improved as much as the criterion. Also, the effects of the intervention were maintained after the experiment. Conclusion: This study provides information on practical intervention procedures and vocabulary selection methods for teaching students regarding speaking sentences in schools, and suggests follow-up studies that can improve students’ sentence speaking.
Survey of SLPs’ Perspectives on Aided AAC Display Design for a Compilation Case of a Beginning Communicator
Authors: Na Ji Young , Lee Suhyang , Lee Jin Soo ,   Korean Society of Augmentative and Alternative Communication
Published: January 2022

Background and Objective: The purpose of this study was to identify Korean speech-language pathologists‘ (SLPs) decisions and perspectives on AAC display design for a hypothetical beginner communicator. Method: Forty six Korean SLPs with experience in AAC responded to questions regarding AAC display design when provided a compilation case study of a beginner communicator. They were asked what type of AAC display they would design for the child communicating during a music class. They selected one among 1) grid display, 2) Visual Scene Displays(VSDs), and 3) hybrid of grid display and VSDs and provided elaborated information for each. Participants’ responses were analyzed by calculating the frequency and the percentage of each. Results: A majority of Korean SLPs chose VSDs/hybrid for the specific case and communication setting (i.e., music class). Participants provided opinions on how they would design VSDs/hybrid or grid displays with specific suggestions. In particular, they suggested which components should be included in the VSD for the case. They were also asked to respond to the follow-up questions about which components should be considered important when they design a grid display for the case. The results were also compared with those from American SLPs who participated in Thistle & Wilkinson’s (2020) survey with a similar compilation case study. Conclusion: The results revealed that SLPs select different types of displays to best support different AAC users and using VSDs/hybrid may be suggested for interactive communication, in particular, for the activity-based communication settings.
A Survey on the Perception of Augmentative and Alternative Communication of Personal Assistants Who Support People with a Disability
Authors: Kim Bo min , Shin Sangeun ,   Korean Society of Augmentative and Alternative Communication
Published: January 2022

Background and Objective: The perception of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) of people around the individual with disability is as an important factor in AAC intervention. The purpose of this study was to examine the current knowledge, experience, and perception of AAC of personal assistants who interact with people with disabilities to support their independent living. Method: A survey comprised of items about AAC knowledge, experience, and perception was developed by reviewing previous studies. A total of 105 personal assistants completed the survey. Regarding AAC perception, the responses were made based on 5-point scale to examine the relationship with the characteristics of the communication difficulties. Results: More than half of the personal assistants were unaware of AAC. Personal assistants who responded that they knew about AAC have limited knowledge and experience about low-tech AAC systems such as the communication book and communication board. Regarding AAC perception, personal assistants responded that adequate cognitive skills are required for people with disabilities to use AAC. Conclusion: Given that the role of personal assistants as an AAC facilitators and AAC finders are important, it is necessary to provide educational opportunities that can enhance their knowledge and experience on AAC.
Morse quasiflats I
Authors: Huang Jingyin , Kleiner Bruce , Stadler Stephan
Published: January 2022

This is the first in a series of papers concerned with Morse quasiflats, which are a generalization of Morse quasigeodesics to arbitrary dimension. In this paper we introduce a number of alternative definitions, and under appropriate assumptions on the ambient space we show that they are equivalent and quasi-isometry invariant; we also give a variety of examples. The second paper proves that Morse quasiflats are asymptotically conical and have canonically defined Tits boundaries; it also gives some first applications.
Inertia groups and smooth structures on quaternionic projective spaces
Authors: Basu Samik , Kasilingam Ramesh
Published: January 2022

This paper deals with certain results on the number of smooth structures on quaternionic projective spaces, obtained through the computation of inertia groups and their analogues, which in turn are computed using techniques from stable homotopy theory. We show that the concordance inertia group is trivial in dimension 20, but there are many examples in high dimensions where the concordance inertia group is non-trivial. We extend these to computations of concordance classes of smooth structures. These have applications to 3-sphere actions on homotopy spheres and tangential homotopy structures.
On weighted compactness of commutators of bilinear maximal Calderón–Zygmund singular integral operators
Authors: Wang Shifen , Xue Qingying
Published: January 2022

Let T be a bilinear Calderón–Zygmund singular integral operator and let

T
*

{T^{*}}

be its corresponding truncated maximal operator. For any

b
∈

BMO
⁡

(

ℝ
n

)

{b\in\operatorname{BMO}({\mathbb{R}^{n}})}

and

b
→

=

(

b
1

,

b
2

)

∈

BMO
⁡

(

ℝ
n

)

×

BMO
⁡

(

ℝ
n

)

{\vec{b}=(b_{1},b_{2})\in\operatorname{BMO}({\mathbb{R}^{n}})\times%
\operatorname{BMO}({\mathbb{R}^{n}})}

, let

T

b
,
j

*

{T^{*}_{b,j}}

(

j
=

1
,
2

{j=1,2}

) and

T

b
→

*

{T^{*}_{\vec{b}}}

be the commutators in the j-th entry and the iterated commutators of

T
*

{T^{*}}

, respectively.
In this paper, for all

1
<

p
1

,

p
2

<
∞

{1<p_{1},p_{2}<\infty}

,

1
p

=

1

p
1

+

1

p
2

{\frac{1}{p}=\frac{1}{p_{1}}+\frac{1}{p_{2}}}

, we show that

T

b
,
j

*

{T^{*}_{b,j}}

and

T

b
→

*

{T^{*}_{\vec{b}}}

are compact operators from

L

p
1

⁢

(

w
1

)

×

L

p
2

⁢

(

w
2

)

{L^{p_{1}}(w_{1})\times L^{p_{2}}(w_{2})}

to

L
p

⁢

(

v

w
→

)

{L^{p}(v_{\vec{w}})}

if

b
,

b
1

,

b
2

∈

CMO
⁡

(

ℝ
n

)

{b,b_{1},b_{2}\in\operatorname{CMO}(\mathbb{R}^{n})}

and

w
→

=

(

w
1

,

w
2

)

∈

A

p
→

{\vec{w}=(w_{1},w_{2})\in A_{\vec{p}}}

,

v

w
→

=

w
1

p
/

p
1

⁢

w
2

p
/

p
2

{v_{\vec{w}}=w_{1}^{p/p_{1}}w_{2}^{p/p_{2}}}

. Here

CMO
⁡

(

ℝ
n

)

{\operatorname{CMO}(\mathbb{R}^{n})}

denotes the closure of

𝒞
c
∞

⁢

(

ℝ
n

)

{\mathcal{C}_{c}^{\infty}(\mathbb{R}^{n})}

in the

BMO
⁡

(

ℝ
n

)

{\operatorname{BMO}(\mathbb{R}^{n})}

topology and

A

p
→

{A_{\vec{p}}}

is the multiple weights class.
On the estimation of the Bernoulli regression function using Bernstein polynomials for group observations
Authors: Babilua Petre
Published: January 2022

The estimate for the Bernoulli regression function is constructed using the Bernstein polynomial for group observations. The question of its consistency and asymptotic normality is studied. A testing hypothesis is constructed on the form of the Bernoulli regression function. The consistency of the constructed tests is investigated.
On a new method of the testing hypothesis of equality of two Bernoulli regression functions for group observations
Authors: Babilua Petre , Nadaraya Elizbar
Published: January 2022

In the paper, the limiting distribution is established for an integral square deviation of estimates of Bernoulli regression functions based on two group samples. Based on these results, the new test is constructed for the hypothesis testing on the equality of two Bernoulli regression functions. The question of consistency of the constructed test is studied, and the asymptotic of the test power is investigated for some close alternatives.
Splines in vibration analysis of non-homogeneous circular plates of quadratic thickness
Authors: Singh Robin , Dhiman Neeraj , Tamsir Mohammad
Published: January 2022

Mathematical model to account for non-homogeneity of plate material is designed, keeping in mind all the physical aspects, and analyzed by applying quintic spline technique for the first time. This method has been applied earlier for other geometry of plates which shows its utility. Accuracy and versatility of the technique are established by comparing with the well-known existing results. Effect of quadratic thickness variation, an exponential variation of non-homogeneity in the radial direction, and variation in density; for the three different outer edge conditions namely clamped, simply supported and free have been computed using MATLAB for the first three modes of vibration. For all the three edge conditions, normalized transverse displacements for a specific plate have been presented which shows the shiftness of nodal radii with the effect of taperness.
Incremental intervention effects in studies with dropout and many timepoints#
Authors: Kim Kwangho , Kennedy Edward H. , Naimi Ashley I.
Published: January 2022

Modern longitudinal studies collect feature data at many timepoints, often of the same order of sample size. Such studies are typically affected by dropout and positivity violations. We tackle these problems by generalizing effects of recent incremental interventions (which shift propensity scores rather than set treatment values deterministically) to accommodate multiple outcomes and subject dropout. We give an identifying expression for incremental intervention effects when dropout is conditionally ignorable (without requiring treatment positivity) and derive the nonparametric efficiency bound for estimating such effects. Then we present efficient nonparametric estimators, showing that they converge at fast parametric rates and yield uniform inferential guarantees, even when nuisance functions are estimated flexibly at slower rates. We also study the variance ratio of incremental intervention effects relative to more conventional deterministic effects in a novel infinite time horizon setting, where the number of timepoints can grow with sample size and show that incremental intervention effects yield near-exponential gains in statistical precision in this setup. Finally, we conclude with simulations and apply our methods in a study of the effect of low-dose aspirin on pregnancy outcomes.
Impact strength of surface treated SS316L wires reinforced PMMA**
Authors: Ibrahim Sarmad A. , Lafta Sadeq H. , Hussain Wafaa A.
Published: January 2022

Stainless steel 316L (SS316L) as a significant bio-material, their wires were used to support the PMMA matrix. Two simple and low-cost surface pretreatments for SS316L wires were performed to enhance denture impact strength: mechanical scratching (treating SS316L wires with SiC powder inside a rotating container) and electrochemical anodizing. Three mechanical scratching samples for different periods of 60, 90 and 120min were prepared. Anodizing technique conditions were: Ethylene glycol with perchloric acid as an anodizing solution, 15V supplying and graphite rod as an anode. Anodizing process involved three pretreating periods of 15, 20, and 30min. All the prepared samples had dimensions of 65 × 10 × 3 mm. SEM technique showed different morphology nature involved holes, scratches and pores with a density of 104/μm2 and a crack length of 60μm. The PMMA reinforced with scratched stainless steel 316L wire surface for 120 min presented the highest impact strength value (42 kJ/m2) with (450.91%) increment. Anodizing samples showed a fluctuating behavior of samples with enhancing in the impact strength of anodizing wire for 20min of about 26.99 kJ/m2, which is still lower than that for scratched samples in average.