bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis On Motivation In Learning English Among Pesantren Students And Its Correlation With English Language Proficiency
Authors: Fakhruddin Muhammad Zuhri
Published: August 2021

This quantitative descriptive research investigates correlation between English learning motivation among Pesantren students and their English language proficiency. Pesantren community is a unique environment to learn foreign language combining the process of nurturing Islamic values and discipline. 25 students of X grade from IPS (Social) major are involved in this study. A questionnaire measuring type of motivation and its value is used to collect data related to the motivation, while the English proficiency is measured through School based examination score and independent English language proficiency designed by the researcher. Analysis on the collected data is done through SPSS version 26. The finding revealed that there are four types of motivation among Pesantren students in learning English, those are: [1] Instrumental; [2] Integrative; [3] Extrinsic; and [4] Intrinsic. Each of these type has been proven to have a significance correlation with students English language proficiency. Thus it strengthen the previous theory stating that motivation plays significant role in learning. The most dominant type of motivation among Pesantren students is instrumental motivation.
Learning Accounting Using E-Learning In The Covid-19 Period As An Effort To Improve Student Understanding And Academic Quality
Authors: Afichamala Winda , Hariyanto Wiwit
Published: August 2021

This study aims to determine how accounting learning uses e-learning during the Covid-19 period as an effort to increase student understanding and academic quality. The data analysis technique used in this study is to use a form of pattern matching analysis. The results of the research obtained based on data analysis said that the e-learning infrastructure used in UMSIDA, especially the Accounting study program, was good, the e-learning ceiling used in UMSIDA was moodle. In the e-learning learning process at UMSIDA, there are content standards that must be met. Learning accounting using e-learning during the Covid-19 period can be used as an effort to increase student understanding and academic quality, it's just that there needs to be a commitment between students and lecturers.
Budget Estimation Planning Web Based Information System Of Project Network Ftth
Authors: Wijaya Mahendra , Sumarno
Published: August 2021

The planning process in project work is very important to maintain the quality of results and management of work time. In this study, the authors make a web-based information system application and based on work experience while working at PT.Telkom Akses as administrative staff who handles projects or work related to the construction of the FTTH network by PT.Telkom Indonesia. This information system aims to simplify the work in project planning, especially in making BoQ more accurate and more efficient. The method used by the author is the Lyfe Cycle software development method that uses the waterfall model. Using the laravel 7 framework and php 7 this information system was built and mysql 5 as a server, it is hoped that this information system can be useful and facilitate the work of administrative staff at PT. Telkom Akses
Academic Self-Efficacy Muhammadiyah University Students Sidoarjo Faculty Of Business Law And Social Science
Authors: Sulistiono Tri , Affandi Ghozali Rusyid
Published: August 2021

This research is motivated by the phenomenon of students who lack academic self-efficacy in undergoing the process of academic activities at Muhammadiyah University of Sidoarjo. This study aims to determine the academic self-efficacy of the students of the Faculty of Business, Law and Social Sciences, Muhammadiyah University of Sidoarjo. The method used in this research is descriptive quantitative. The variable contained in this study is academic self-efficacy. This research was conducted at the University of Muhammadiyah Sidoarjo using students for the Academic Year 2020-2021 as many as 320 student subjects taken using the proportional sampling technique. The data collection technique in this study used an academic self-efficacy scale with a Likert-scaled model. Data analysis was carried out by descriptive statistical analysis with categorization techniques. The results of data analysis showed that most of the students' academic self-efficacy levels were in the medium category (71%), a few were in the low category (16%), but a small portion had high self-efficacy (13%),. The study programs that have are Management study programs with an average score of 70.70, and Law study programs are 70.43. While the highest aspect is generality with an average value of 26.45, magnitude 25.13, strength aspect 18.48.
Improving The Ability To Recognize Number Symbols Through The Manipulative Numbers Dice Game In Children Ages 3 – 4 Years
Authors: Sheril Candu Gayuk , Aulina Choirun Nisak
Published: August 2021

Based on the observations of researchers at PG Mutiara Cita Hati Sidoarjo, they found a problem in PG TK Mutiara Cita Hati Sidoarjo, namely the difficulty of children aged 3-4 years in knowing numbers. Whereas out of 16 children aged 3 - 4 years (PG), there are 10 children who do not know numbers well. The process of counting, namely adjusting between what is spoken and the number / results of the objects collected and counted is still not correct. This situation occurs because the learning is not in accordance with the learning theory. To be able to solve the problems listed above, the researchers made a game that can improve children's ability to recognize the symbol of numbers. Through this game, it can make it easier for children to understand and absorb lessons because the atmosphere is fun. In this study, it can be concluded that the application of the numerical dice manipulative game can improve the ability to recognize number symbols. This is indicated by an increase in the ability to count concepts in each cycle. Before the action and pre-cycle was 33.33%, 60% first cycle and 93.33% cycle II. In the stage of recognizing the symbol of numbers, all stages are carried out using the application of the number dice manipulative game
Marketing Strategy of SD Muhammadiyah 1 Sedati
Authors: Kohar Mochammad
Published: August 2021

An interesting phenomenon occurs in the implementation of education, especially when new students are accepted. People seem to have understood which schools are appropriate to send their sons/daughter to, for them the criteria for schools that have a good image are schools that succeed in satisfying educational service users (users). The research was conducted at SD Muhammadiyah 1 Sedati which in fact includes a newly established school that is able to compete with other schools in the surrounding environment. The focus of this research is; 1). What is the marketing strategy at SD Muhammadiyah 1 Sedati, 2). What are the strengths of SD Muhammadiyah 1 Sedati as a new educational institution to market educational institutions. This research includes qualitative research. The results of this study are: (1). Education services at SD Muhammadiyah 1 Sedati prioritize efforts to fulfill customer expectations and satisfaction, (2). Marketing Strategy in improving the image of the school. However, an effective strategy at SD Muhammadiyah 1 Sedati is to build an image of service satisfaction through word of mouth and by using the power of the Muhammadiyah Sedati Branch Manager (3). The impact of the marketing strategy and its implications for imaging at SD Muhammadiyah 1 Sedati are as follows; a). High customer loyalty of education service users (public understanding). b). Public confidence is getting stronger (public confidence), c). The existence of community support (public support), d). Establishing effective cooperation between schools and parents (public corporation)
Methods for simultaneous determination of legacy and insensitive munition (IM) constituents in aqueous, soil/sediment, and tissue matrices
Authors: Crouch Rebecca , Smith Jared , Stromer Bobbi , Hubley Christian , Beal Samuel , Lotufo Guilherme , Butler Afrachanna , Wynter Michelle , Russell Amber , Coleman Jessica , Wayne Katrinka , Clausen Jay , Bednar Anthony
Published: August 2021

Currently, no standard method exists for analyzing insensitive munition (IM) compounds in environmental matrices, with or without concurrent legacy munition compounds, resulting in potentially inaccurate determinations. The primary objective of this work was to develop new methods of extraction, pre-concentration, and analytical separation/quantitation of 17 legacy munition compounds along with several additional IM compounds, IM breakdown products, and other munition compounds that are not currently included in U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Method 8330B. Analytical methods were developed to enable sensitive, simultaneous detection and quantitation of the 24 IM and legacy compounds, including two orthogonal high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) column separations with either ultraviolet (UV) or mass spectrometric (MS) detection. Procedures were developed for simultaneous extraction of all 24 analytes and two surrogates (1,2-dinitrobenzene, 1,2-DNB; o-NBA) from high- and low-level aqueous matrices and solid matrices, using acidification, solid phase extraction (SPE), or solvent extraction (SE), respectively. The majority of compounds were recovered from four tissue types within current limits for solids, with generally low recovery only for Tetryl (from 4 to 62%). A preparatory chromatographic interference removal procedure was adapted for tissue extracts, as various analytical interferences were observed for all studied tissue types.
Comparative Experiment of Wellbore Self-Circulation Heat Mining Capacity with Different Heat-Carrying Fluids
Authors: Zhang Liang , Yang Linchao , Geng Songhe , Ren Shaoran
Published: August 2021

Based on the principle of wellbore self-circulation heat mining, the evaluation experiments of local wellbore self-circulation heat exchange laws and influencing factors were carried out. Water, SCCO2, R134a, and heat transfer oil were screened as the heat-carrying fluids. The heat exchange laws and heat mining capacity of these four heat carrying fluids were analyzed and compared, and their heat mining rates at the field scale were estimated using the similarity criterion method according to the experimental results. The results show that R134a and heat transfer oil can obtain the largest outlet temperature and the largest heat loss ratio, while the water can achieve a higher heat mining rate and a larger convective heat transfer coefficient than the other three fluids. The heat mining capacity of CO2 is significantly affected by the injection pressure. It is necessary to optimize the injection pressure larger than critical point to achieve the best heat mining performance. When the water is selected as the heat-carrying fluid, the heat mining rate can reach more than 1 MW if a horizontal wellbore with a length of 2000 m is applied for wellbore self-circulation at the field scale.
Intelligent Robots for Fruit Harvesting: Recent Developments and Future Challenges
Authors: Zhou Hongyu , Wang Xing , Au Wesley , Kang Hanwen , Chen Chao
Published: August 2021

Intelligent robots for fruit harvesting have been actively developed over the past decades to bridge the increasing gap between feeding a rapidly growing population and limited labour resources. Despite significant advancements in this field, widespread use of harvesting robots in orchards is yet to be seen. To identify the challenges and formulate future research and development directions, this work reviews the state-of-the-art of intelligent fruit harvesting robots by comparing their system architectures, visual perception approaches, fruit detachment methods and system performances. The potential reasons behind the inadequate performance of existing harvesting robots are analysed and a novel map of challenges and potential research directions is created, considering both environmental factors and user requirements.
Assessment of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies post-Coronavac vaccination in the Amazon region of Brazil
Authors: Bichara Carlos David Araújo , Queiroz Maria Alice Freitas , Amoras Ednelza da Silva Graça , Vaz Gergiane Lopes , Vallinoto Izaura Maria Vieira Cayres , Bichara Cléa Nazaré Carneiro , Amaral Isabella Pinheiro Costa , Ishak Ricardo , Vallinoto Antonio Carlos Rosário
Published: August 2021

The race to develop a vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) has raised questions regarding the safety of immunizers, efficacy regarding the production of neutralizing antibodies, and the longevity of the immune response, especially when related to variables such as sex and age. The present study evaluated the frequency of seropositivity for anti-SARS-CoV-2 (S1 and S2) total antibodies and anti-SARS-CoV-2 (receptor binding domain - RBD - S1) neutralizing antibodies in individuals vaccinated with the immunizing agent Coronavac (Sinovac). This was a cross-sectional study involving 358 individuals divided into two groups. Group 1 consisted of 205 volunteers who were tested for anti-SARS-CoV-2 total antibodies (S1 and S2); group 2 consisted of 153 individuals tested for the presence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibodies (RBD-S1). Seropositivity was greater than 70% in both groups, though approximately 20% of individuals showed no antibody production. The frequency of anti-SARS-CoV-2 total antibodies (S1 and S2) displayed a significantly different distribution between the sexes but not according to age. The frequency of anti-SARS-CoV-2 (RBD-S1) neutralizing antibodies was 93% in the age group from 21 to 40 years, which was significantly lower with advancing age, to 76% (41 to 60 years), 72% (61 to 80 years) and 47% (>80 years). Our results reveal a high prevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 total antibodies (S1 and S2) and anti-SARS-CoV-2 (RBD - S1) neutralizing antibodies in individuals who received both doses of the Coronavac vaccine, suggesting a lower efficiency of the humoral immune response among those older than 60 years of age, which might be associated with senescence of the immune system.
Effect of Grazing Management and Land Cover Types on Mineral-Associated Organic Carbon and Particulate Organic Carbon in a Semi-arid Rangelands in Kenya
Authors: Gitau Angela Nduta , Onwonga R.N. , Mbau J. S. , Chepkemoi J. , Mureithi S. M.
Published: August 2021

BackgroundEnhancing soil organic carbon storage in areas under extensive livestock grazing has become a challenge in most arid and semi-arid rangelands in Sub-Saharan Africa. In Kenya for instance, continuous unplanned grazing in community lands has led to overgrazing and degradation of the rangelands. For decades, livestock production has shaped the landscape through various management practices. Grazing can be used to increase soil organic carbon (SOC) content but intensive use of land can lead to its depletion. This study was set out to elucidate the effect of two types of grazing management under varying land cover types on mineral-associated organic carbon (MAOC) and particulate organic carbon (POC) in the soil. The study was carried out in two ranches, Mpala Research Centre (controlled grazing) and Ilmotiok Community Group Ranch (continuous grazing). The experimental design was a completely randomized block design in split-plot arrangement with three replicates. The main plots were the grazing practices; (controlled grazing and continuous grazing); and sub-plots were the land cover types: (bare ground, patches of grasses, and mosaics of trees). These treatments were randomly selected and replicated three times. Three topographical positions (mid-slope, foot slope and bottom land) were used as a blocking factor.ResultsThe interaction had no significant effect on MAOC fraction in any soil depth interval. Controlled grazed zones significantly recorded higher organic carbon content (POC= 0.887% CC SD=0.49) compared to zones under continuous grazing (POC = 0.718% CC SD=0.3). Mosaic of trees (POC =1.15% CC, SD = 0.22) recorded the highest concentration of carbon followed by patches of grass (POC = 0.87% CC, SD= 0.37) and bare ground (POC = 0.38% CC SD = 0.12) had the least.Conclusion﻿This study shows that grazing practices as well as land cover types have a significant effect on POC but not on MAOC. Mosaic of trees under controlled grazing has higher POC whereas bareground under continuous grazing had the least POC. Destocking should be done under continuous grazed zones to reduce further loss of POC and MAOC and allow vegetation recovery.
Eleven Mutations in Six Genes Causing Abnormal Sperm Morphology: A Case Series
Authors: Zhong Chongfu , Liu Shengjing , Wang Yong , Shi Zhuozhuo , Liu Fengrui , Gao Zhaowang
Published: August 2021

Objective: Infertility has become a major health problem worldwide, approximately 10%–15% of male infertility cases can be attributed to genetic mutations. However, the genetic factors contributing to male infertility remain largely unknown. This study aimed to identify genetic mutations associated with morphological abnormalities in sperm.Methods: In this study, we assessed the semen parameters of 60 patients with sperm morphological abnormalities by semen analysis, and subsequently performed targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) to identify gene mutations. Results: Of the 60 cases of male infertility, 8 individuals (13%) were identified as carrying genetic mutations. In brief, patient 1 carried two heterozygous mutations of SUN5, including c.1066C>T and c.638delC; Patient 2 and Patient 3 had a 109.73 kb homozygous deletion on chromosome 12 in DPY19L2; patient 4 presented two heterozygous mutations (c.1670_1671delinsTT and c.255_258del) of DPY19L2; patient 5 carried a homozygous variant c.1159+1G>A of CCDC40; patient 6 had a heterozygous mutation c.38_43del in the SEPT12 gene; patient 7 had two heterozygous mutations in DNAH1 (c.10060_10061insATCT and c.12278T>C), and patient 8 presented two heterozygous mutations of CFAP43 (c.3658C>T and c.823del). Conclusions: We identified gene mutations associated with sperm morphological abnormalities in a series of male infertility cases. Eight of sixty individuals were identified as carrying gene mutations. Genetic mutations of SUN5, DPY19L2, CCDC40, SEPT12, DNAH1, and CFAP43 might be responsible for male infertility. Our study expanded the landscape of gene mutations related to sperm morphological abnormalities, which might provide new insights into the genetics underlying male infertility.
Mre11-Rad50 oligomerization promotes DNA double-strand break repair
Authors: Kissling Vera , Reginato Giordano , Bianco Eliana , Kasaciunaite Kristina , Tilma Janny , Cereghetti Gea , Lee Sung Sik , Guérois Raphaël , Seidel Ralf , Cejka Petr , Peter Matthias
Published: August 2021

The conserved Mre11-Rad50 (MR) complex is crucial for the detection, signaling, end tethering and processing of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs). While it was known for decades that MR foci formation at DSBs accompanies repair, the underlying molecular assembly mechanisms and functional implications remained unclear. Combining pathway reconstitution in electron microscopy, biochemical assays and genetic studies, we show that S. cerevisiae MR oligomerizes via a conserved Rad50 beta-sheet to higher-order assemblies, which bind DNA with positive cooperativity. We designed Rad50 point mutants with enhanced or disrupted MR oligomerization, and demonstrate that MR oligomerization facilitates foci formation, DNA damage signaling and repair in vivo. MR oligomerization does not affect its exonuclease activity but drives endonucleolytic cleavage at multiple sites on the 5'-terminated DNA strand near DSBs. Interestingly, mutations in the human Rad50 beta-sheet are linked to hereditary cancer predisposition and our findings might provide new insights into their potential role in chemoresistance.
Perioperative protocol to reduce blood transfusions in ankylosing spondylitis patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Huang Yu , Huang Xiao , Li Fulin , Huang Wenwen , Yin Dong
Published: August 2021

Introduction: Although tranexamic acid (TXA) can reduce bleeding during total hip arthroplasty (THA), the amount of perioperative bleeding is greater in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS); So blood management is more challenging. Patient Blood Management (PBM) program can improve AS patients care and reduce health costs in THA. The purpose of this study is to assess the effects of PMB program on allogeneic transfusion rate, length of hospital stay(LOS), hospitalization expenses and adverse events.
Methods : We conducted a retrospective observational study of patients with AS who underwent THA. All patients were treated with tranexamic acid before and after operation. Our PBM program included preoperative evaluation, preoperative acute normovolemic hemodilution and intraoperative recovery autotransfusion. We compared results between the group of patients before and the one after the PBM program implementation.
Result: We included 68 as patients who underwent total hip arthroplasty before PBM program from January 2013 to December 2015 (group A) and 84 as patients who underwent total hip arthroplasty after PBM program from January 2016 to December 2019 (group B). In the comparison of intraoperative blood transfusion volume, intraoperative blood transfusion rate and total blood transfusion rate between the two groups, the group B was significantly lower than the group A (P ≤ 0.05); The length of stay and hospitalization expenses of the group B were lower than the group A (P ≤ 0.05). No adverse events were recorded.
Conclunsions: Our PMB program can reduce allogeneic blood transfusion, hospital stay and hospitalization expenses, without risking patients to higher number of com- plications in AS patients undergoing THA.
eIF6 Promotes Inﬂammatory Macrophage Phenotype, Foam Cell Formation and Atherosclerosise
Authors: Zheng Junnian , Chen Renjin , Xian Xuemei , Zhan xiaoqiang , Chang Jiajia , Yuan Honghua , Chen Quangang , Han Xufeng , Chen Yang , Zhu Yuhua , Wang Zhenzhen
Published: August 2021

Background：Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease, caused by accumulation of lipid-laden and inflammatory macrophages in the artery wall. Understanding its molecular mechanisms and developing novel therapeutic targets to promote atherosclerotic regression is an important clinical goal.Methods : ApoE-/- and eIF6+/-/ApoE-/- mice were fed Western diet (WD) for 16 weeks. Molecular biology technology were performed to analyze the differences between them.Results: The mechanism by which Eukaryotic initiation factor 6 (eIF6) affects macrophages and atherosclerosis remains to be elucidated. Western blotting and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR ) analysis indicated significantly higher expression levels of eIF6 than those in the control in RAW264.7 cells induced by Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and Interleukin-4 (IL4). We constructed eIF6+/-/ApoE-/- mice, the hematoxylin (HE) and Oil Red O staining analysis indicated that these mice showed a significant decrease in atherosclerotic lesion formation increased anti-inﬂammatory cell content in aortas, and reduced necrotic core content compared with ApoE-/- mice on a western diet for 16 weeks. eIF6 deficiency suppressed foam cell formation and promoted the anti-inﬂammatory macrophage phenotype in primary macrophages. More anti-inflammatory populations were observed in blood and atherosclerotic aortas of eIF6+/- ApoE-/- mice by flow cytometry. Immunofluorescent staining analysis obtained the same results.Conclusions: eIF6 deficiency protects against atherosclerosis by promoting the anti-inﬂammatory macrophage phenotype and reducing macrophage uptake of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), indicating that new insight into eIF6 may reveal a potential novel therapeutic target for the resolution of inflammation in atherosclerosis.
Prognosis of Pancreatic Cancer in Hamadan, Iran (2008-2018): A case Series Study
Authors: Khanlarzadeh Elham , Nazari Saman , Ghobakhloo Mehdi , Ranjbar Hossein , Nazari Sasan
Published: August 2021

Background: The present study aimed to determine the prognosis of pancreatic cancer from 2008 to 2018 in Hamadan, Iran. A case series study was conducted retrospectively at Beheshti Hospital in Hamadan, Iran. Methods: A total of 409 cases that had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer from 2008 to 2018 were assessed. The variables included age, gender, pathological type, location involved, early symptoms, metastasis, prognosis and treatments, was extracted from the files and recorded in checklist. Data were analyzed by using SPSS/20 software. Results: The mean of age was 66.23±13.06 year. The most frequent of pancreatic cancers was Adenocarcinomas (66.7%). The highest frequency of early symptoms was jaundice (53.1%) and weight loss (12.7%). The highest frequency of pancreatic cancer lesions was more in the head of pancreas (68.7%). Most patients had metastasis at the beginning of diagnosis (82.3%). Most metastases were in liver (31.5%) and peritoneum (25.2%). The prognosis of the pancreatic cancer is significantly related to the lesion location and the consumption of alcohol, cigarettes and substance abuse (p <0.05), but it wasn’t correlated with age, sex and pathological type (p> 0.05). The 1-year and 5-year survival rates were (22.3%) and (9.5%), respectively. The lowest and the highest in 5-year survival rate were (7.8%) and (18.8%) in adenocarcinoma and carcinoma type. Conclusion: More preventive considerations were found to be beneficial among this population.
Effects of Exogenous Regulation of Ethylene and Abscisic Acid on Grain-Filling and Endosperm PCD of Wheat Under Drought Stress After Anthesis
Authors: Li Chao , Zhang Xiangchi , Guo Wenting , Fu Kaiyong , Li Cheng , Li Chunyan
Published: August 2021

Although studies have shown that grain-filling and programmed cell death of wheat endosperm are affected by drought stress, which is closely related to ethylene and abscisic acid.The mechanism of ethylene and abscisic acid regulate grain-filling and endosperm PCD under drought stress is remains unclear. In this study, we regulated the production of ethylene and abscisic acid in wheat grains under drought stress at filling stage by chemicals. The results showed that spraying ethylene synthesis inhibitor enhanced endosperm cell viability, delayed nuclear deformation, and decreased ACC content. Compared with the CK, the CN significantly decreased the DNA hydrolase activity and significantly increased the DNA content. In addition, the CN treatment reduced the expression of four genes related to ethylene receptors (ers1, ers2 etr1, etr2) and increase the expression of dad1. Under CN treatment, the process of endosperm PCD was delayed, the duration of high grouting rate was prolonged, and the grain weight was increased, in contrast, the opposite result was obtained after spraying abscisic acid synthesis inhibitor. The production of abscisic acid and ethylene in grains determines the fate of endosperm cells. A new model of artificial regulation of abscisic acid and ethylene, delaying endosperm PCD process and increasing grain weight under post-anthesis drought was proposed.
Increased Testicular Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 is Associated with Gonadal Activation by Recombinant Growth Hormone in Immature Rats
Authors: Xu Yang , Han Chang Yong , Park Mi Jung , Gye Myung Chan
Published: August 2021

To understand the mechanism of precocious sexual maturation following prepubertal growth hormone (GH) therapy, the effects of recombinant human GH (rhGH) on the kisspeptin-gonadotropin-releasing hormone-luteinizing hormone (GnRH-LH) system in the hypothalamus-pituitary axis, systemic and testicular insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF1), spermatogenesis and Leydig cell steroidogenesis, and circulating testosterone levels were examined in immature rats. Following daily injection of rhGH (1 or 2 IU/kg) from postnatal day (PND) 21 to PND 23 or 30, testicular steroidogenic pathway genes and spermatogenesis marker genes mRNA levels, the number and size of HSD17B(+) Leydig cells, and blood testosterone levels in the rhGH rats were significantly higher than those of controls on PNDs 24 and 31. Hypothalamic Kiss1 and Gnrh1 mRNA in the rhGH rats were significantly higher than those in the controls on PND 24, indicating early activation of hypothalamic kisspeptin-GnRH neurons by rhGH. Hypothalamic Igf1 mRNA levels in rhGH rats were significantly higher than those in the controls on PND 24 but significantly lower than those in controls on PND 31. Testicular Igf1 mRNA levels were significantly higher in rhGH rats than in the controls on PNDs 24 and 31 whereas liver Igf1 mRNA levels and circulating IGF1 levels were not. In progenitor Leydig cells, rhGH significantly increased the Igf1 and steroidogenic pathway genes mRNA levels and the testosterone production. Therefore, local increases in testicular IGF1 might be an important mediator of gonadal activation via steroidogenic activation of Leydig cells in immature rats given rhGH.
The Diagnostic Journey of Genetically Defined Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Authors: Simon Juliana , Hyde Carly , Saravandapandian Vidya , Wilson Rujuta , DiStefano Charlotte , Besterman Aaron , Jeste Shafali
Published: August 2021

Background

The development of advanced genetic technologies has resulted in rapid identification of genetic etiologies of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) and has transformed the classification and diagnosis of various NDDs. However, diagnostic genetics has far outpaced our ability to provide timely medical counseling, guidance, and care for patients with genetically defined NDDs. These patients and their caregivers present with an unmet need for care coordination across multiple domains including medical, developmental, and psychiatric care, and for educational resources and guidance from care professionals. After a genetic diagnosis is made, families also face several barriers in access to informed diagnostic evaluations and medical support.
Methods

As part of Care and Research in Neurogenetics (CARING), a multidisciplinary clinical program for children and adults with neurogenetic disorders, we conducted qualitative clinical interviews about the diagnostic journey of families. This included the overall timeline to receiving diagnoses, experiences before and after diagnosis, barriers to care, and resources that helped them to navigate the diagnostic process.
Results

A total of 37 interviews were conducted with parents of children ages 16 months to 33 years. Several key themes were identified: 1) delays between initial caregiver observations of developmental delays and formal developmental or genetic diagnoses; 2) practical barriers to clinical evaluation and care, including long wait times for an appointment, lack of insurance coverage, availability of local evaluations, transportation difficulties, and native language differences; 3) the importance of being part of a patient advocacy group to help navigate the diagnostic journey; and (4) unique challenges faced by adults (18 years or older).
Conclusions

Families of children with complex neurodevelopmental and genetic disabilities face numerous challenges in finding adequate medical care and services for their child. They experience considerable delays in receiving timely diagnoses and face significant barriers that further delay the process of receiving access to services needed for the child’s continued care. The gaps indicated in this study speak to the need for more comprehensive coordination of care for patients with intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as the development of systematic, disorder-specific resources both for providers and families in order to improve patient outcomes.
Effects of Steel Fibers (SF) and Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (GBBS) on Recycle Aggregate Concrete
Authors: Ahmad Jawad , Aslam Fahad
Published: August 2021

Recycle aggregate is one of the good options to use in concrete as coarse aggregate which results environmental benefits as well as sustainable development. However, recycle aggregate cause reduction in concrete performance. One the other hand, the removal of industrial waste would be considerably decreased if it could be incorporated in cement concrete production. One of these possibilities is the substitution of the cement by slag, which enhance concrete poor properties of recycle aggregate concrete as well as provides to the decrease of cement consumption, reducing carbon dioxide productions, while resolving a waste management challenge. Furthermore, steel fiber was also added to hance the tensile capacity of recycle aggregate concrete. The main goal of this study is to investigate the characteristics of concrete using Ground granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBS) as binding material on recycle aggregate fibers reinforce concrete (RAFRC). Mechanical performance was assessed through compressive strength and split tensile strength, while durability aspects was study through water absorption, acid resistance and dry shrinkage. The results detected from the different experiments depict that replacement of Ground granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBS) enhance mechanical performance as well as durability aspects of the recycle aggregate fibers reinforce concrete (RAFRC).
WITHDRAWN: In Vitro Study On The Potential Fungicidal Effects of Atorvastatin In Combination With Some Azole Drugs Against Multidrug Resistant Candida Albicans
Authors: Mahmoud Dina Ezzat Mahmoud , Faraag Ahmed Hassan Ibrahim , El-Wafa Wael Mohamed Abu
Published: August 2021

The resistance of Candida albicans to azole drugs represents the great global challenge. This study investigates the potential fungicidal effects of atorvastatin (ATO) combinations with fluconazole (FLU), itraconazole (ITR), ketoconazole (KET) and voriconazole (VOR) against thirty-four multidrug-resistant (MDR) C. albicans using checkerboard and time-kill methods. Results showed that 94.12% of these isolates were MDR to ≥ two azole drugs, whereas 5.88% of them were susceptible to azole drugs. The tested isolates exhibited high resistance rates to FLU (58.82%), ITR (52.94%), VOR (47.06 %) and KET (35.29 %), whereas only three representative (8.82%) isolates were resistant to all tested azoles. Remarkably, the inhibition zones of these isolates were increased at least two-fold with the presence of ATO, which interacted in a synergistic (FIC index ≤ 0.5) manner with tested azoles. In silico docking study of ATO and the four azole drugs were performed against the Lanosterol 14-alpha demethylase enzyme (ERG11) of C. albicans. Results showed that the mechanism of action of ATO against C. albicans is similar to that of azole compounds, with docking score (-4.901) lower than azole drugs (> - 5.0) due to the formation a single H-bond with Asp 225 and a pi-pi interaction with Thr 229. Importantly, ATO combinations with ITR, VOR and KET achieved fungicidal effects (≥ 3 Log10 cfu/ml reduction) against the representative isolates, whereas a fungistatic effect (≤ 3 Log10 cfu/ml reduction) was observed with FLU combination. Thus, the combination of ATO with azole drugs could be promising options for treating C. albicans infection.
Clinical Performance of Lithium Disilicate Glass-Ceramic Onlays For The Treatment of Tooth Defects
Authors: Chen Shujiang , Lu Meng , Zhu Zhimin , Chen Wenchuan C.
Published: August 2021

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to assess the clinical performance of lithium disilicate glass-ceramic onlays for the treatment of tooth defects and to evaluate the clinical performance and whether they are worth more extensive use as that of the full crown. MethodsPatients who received treatment by lithium disilicate glass-ceramic onlays at the Western China Hospital of Stomatology were recalled after 1~4 years. The clinical performance and patients’ satisfaction of onlays for various tooth defects, cracked or uncracked teeth and endodontically treated or vital teeth were retrospectively evaluated with a combination of modified United States Public Health Service Criteria and questionnaire survey. Statistical analysis was performed by using the chi-squared test, Kaplan–Meier analysis and Log-rank test (a = 0.05) where appropriate. ResultsA total of 154 patients with 166 onlays were recalled for clinical examination. Of the 166 onlays examined, 65 (39.19%) were occlusal onlays, 92 (55.42%) were proximal-occlusive onlays and 9 (5.42%) were buccal-or lingual-occlusal onlays. The clinical performance of O and PO onlays was not significantly different (P > 0.05), according to USPHS Criteria. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that the 4-year survival rate of O and PO onlays was 95.4% and 97.8%, respectively while there was no failure happened in buccal-or lingual-occlusal onlays. Log- rank test showed that the kinds of defects/onlays, tooth vitality and tooth crack had no influence on the survival rate (P > 0.05). The overall satisfaction rate was more than 98%.ConclusionsThis medium-term analysis indicated that lithium disilicate glass-ceramic onlays achieved satisfactory clinical performance for the restoration of different tooth defects. The survival rate of onlays was comparable to that of full crown. Different kinds of tooth defects, tooth vitality and tooth crack did not influence performance.Trial registrationThe study was approved by the Medical Ethics Committee of West China Hospital of Stomatology of Sichuan University with the approval number: WCHSIRB-D-2021-300. Consent to participate was not applicable.
Non-invasive imaging of tau-targeted probe uptake by whole brain multi-spectral optoacoustic tomography
Authors: Vagenknecht Patrick , Luzgin Artur , Ono Maiko , JI BIN , Higuchi Makoto , Noain Daniela , Maschio Cinzia A , Sobek Jens , Chen Zhenyue , Konietzko Uwe , Gerez Juan , Riek Roland , Razansky Daniel , Klohs Jan , Nitsch Roger , Dean-Ben Xose Luis , Ni Ruiqing
Published: August 2021

Background
Abnormal tau accumulation within the brain plays an important role in tauopathies such as Alzheimer’s disease and Frontotemporal dementia. High-resolution imaging of tau deposits at the whole-brain scale in animal disease models are highly desired. Herein, we approach this challenge by non-invasively imaging the brain of P301L mice of 4-repeat tau with concurrent volumetric multi-spectral optoacoustic tomography (vMSOT) at ~ 115 µm spatial resolution using tau-targeted pyridinyl-butadienyl-benzothiazole derivative PBB5 (i.v.).
Results
PBB5 showed specific binding to recombinant K18 tau fibrils by fluorescence assay, to post-mortem Alzheimer’s disease brain tissue homogenate by competitive binding against [11C]PBB3, and to tau deposits (AT-8 positive) in post-mortem corticobasal degeneration and progressive supranuclear palsy brains. Concurrent vMSOT and epi-fluorescence imaging of in vivo PBB5 targeting (i.v.) was performed in P301L and non-transgenic littermate mice. A dose dependent optoacoustic and fluorescence signal intensity was observed in the mouse brains with i.v. administration of different concentrations of PBB5. i.v. administration of PBB5 in P301L mice showed higher retention in tau-laden cortex and hippocampus compared to wild-type, confirmed by ex vivo vMSOT, epi-fluorescence, multiphoton microscopy, immunofluorescence staining using AT-8 antibody for phosphorylated tau.
Conclusions
We demonstrated non-invasive 3D whole-brain imaging of tau in P301L mice with a vMSOT system using PBB5 at a previously unachieved ~ 115 µm spatial resolution. This platform provides new tool to study tau spreading and clearance in tauopathy mouse model, foreseeable in monitoring of tau targeting putative therapeutics.
Stacked-origami mechanical metamaterial with tailored multistage stiffness
Authors: Wen Guilin , Chen Gaoxi , Long Kai , Wang Xuan , Liu Jie , Xie Yi Min
Published: August 2021

Origami-baed metamaterial has shown remarkable mechanical properties rarely found in natural materials, but achieving tailored multistage stiffness is still a challenge. This study proposes a novel zigzag-base stacked-origami (ZBSO) metamaterial with tailored multistage stiffness property based on crease customization and stacking strategies. A high precision finite element (FE) model to identify the stiffness characteristics of the ZBSO metamaterial has been established, and its accuracy is validated by quasi-static compression experiments. Using the verified FE model, we demonstrate that the multistage stiffness of the ZBSO metamaterial can be effectively tailored through two manners, i.e. varying the microstructures (through introducing new creases to the classical Miura origami unit cell) and altering the stacking way. Three strategies are utilized to vary the microstructure, i.e. adding new creases to the right, left, or both sides of the unit cell. We further reveal that the proposed ZBSO metamaterial has several outstanding advantages compared with traditional mechanical metamaterials, e.g. material independent, scale-invariant, lightweight, and excellent energy absorption capacity. The unravelled superior mechanical properties of the ZBSO metamaterials pave the way for the design of the next-generation cellular metamaterials with tailored stiffness properties.
Preparation and Characterization of PVA-Cellulose Micro Crystal Composite Film from Jute fiber
Authors: Hasan Md. Zahid , Arafat Yeasin , Bashar M. Mahbubul , Niloy Md. Nabi Newaz , Islam Md Imranul , Khandaker Shahjalal , Chowdhury A. M Sarwaruddin
Published: August 2021

Herein, the microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) was obtained from jut fiber by ammonium persulfate (APS) oxidation process and thus polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) composite films were prepared by the reinforcement of MCC in a solution casting method. The surface chemistry, thermal properties and surface morphology of MCC and PVA-MCC composite films were studied by FT-IR spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analyzer and scanning electron microscopy. The SEM images confirmed the rod like MCC with average particle diameter 4.6 µm and length in 48.4 µm. The FT-IR spectroscopy revealed the complete removal of lignin and hemicellulose from jute fiber. A peak at 1730 cm− 1 was introduced in MCC due to oxidation with APS. The absorption peak of –OH groups in PVA-MCC composite films were shifted, somewhat disappeared and weakened due to the intra and inter molecular hydrogen bonding of MCC and OH groups in PVA. Thermogravimetric analysis expressed the thermal behavior of MCC and PVA-MCC composite films. Initially the thermal stability of PVA-MCC composite films was lower than the pristine MCC but at higher temperature (> 300℃) it showed better stability indicating the applicability of the composite at higher temperature.
Undernutrition and associated factors among HIV-Infected adults receiving ART at Health centers, Lega Tafo and Surrounding, Ethiopia, 2021
Authors: Belcha Lelisa Worku
Published: August 2021

Background: Globally 38 million people were living with HIV in 2019. In Africa, 25 million people are living with HIV/AIDS undernutrition and food insecurity is endemic. Hence the study aimed to assess the magnitude of undernutrition and associated factors among HIV-infected adults receiving ART. Methods: Institutional based cross-sectional study was conducted among HIV/AIDS patients who following the ART service was selected by a simple random sampling method. The data were collected by direct interview, using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and a Logistic regression model were employed. Result: The study revealed that the magnitude of under-nutrition was 18.8%. The history of opportunistic infection (AOR=4.518:95% CI: 2.304-8.857), Patients taking ART for less than one year (AOR=3.675:95% CI: 1.831-7.377) household food insecure (AOR= 3.113:95% CI: 1.628-5.950) and dietary diversity score (AOR=2.340:95% CI: 1.221-4.485) were found to have a statistically significant association with undernutrition. Conclusion: The magnitude of undernutrition among people living with HIV/AIDS was found to be high. Having an opportunistic infection, duration of taking ART treatment, household food security status, and dietary diversity status were found to statistically significant association with undernutrition.
Hegemonialität und Gouvernementalität von Optimierungsverhältnissen
Authors: Waldmann Maximilian , Aktaş Ulaş
Published: August 2021

In ästhetisch digitalen Praktiken zeigen sich verschiedene Formen von Optimierungszusammenhängen, die zumeist mit Prozessen der Individualisierung und Vereinzelung gekoppelt sind. Ästhetisch digitale Praktiken können aber auch Möglichkeiten zur Kollektivierung und zum Widerstand gegen die allgegenwärtigen Optimierungsansprüche bieten. Vor diesem Hintergrund werden sowohl repressive als auch widerständige Seiten ästhetisch-medialer Praxen ins Auge gefasst.
Die Ambivalenzen werden an zwei Beispielen beleuchtet. Das erste Beispiel stammt aus Japan und dem Bereich der Intelligent Assistent Systeme. Die nach einem Animecharakter gestaltete dreidimensionale Figur, Azuma Hikari, soll das Leben von jungen Single-Männern angenehmer gestalten und übernimmt eine Reihe von Sorgetätigkeiten für diese. An diesem Beispiel wird der technologiegestützte Umgang mit Vereinzelungstendenzen neoliberaler Gesellschaften aus einer care-feministischen Perspektive analysiert. Das zweite Beispiel ist das geplante digitale Mahnmal in der Keupstrasse, das mit Hilfe von augmented reality-Technologie an die beiden Bombenanschläge des NSU in Köln erinnern will. Gegenüber der offensichtlichen Dominanz der servilen Seite der prekären Selbstregierung im ersten Beispiel werden im zweiten Möglichkeiten des Widerstands gegen neoliberale Optimierung und Formen der Stiftung von Gemeinschaft untersucht.
Explaining Rural-Urban Differences in The Academic Achievement of Secondary Students: An Empirical Study in Magura District of Bangladesh
Authors: Sumi Suraiya Sultana , Jahan Nusrat , Rahman Sarker Tamzid , Seddeque Aysha , Hossain Md. Tanvir
Published: August 2021

All the successive governments of Bangladesh – both civil or military – invested a considerable amount of national fortune in ensuring quality education for all, irrespective of caste or creed. Subsequently, Bangladesh has experienced significant growth in schools, colleges and universities in enrolment and completion rate of education with greater gender parity. However, the success stories were overshadowed by the persistent discrepancies, especially for spatial locations and social classes. This study, therefore, aimed at comparing the academic achievement of rural and urban students, and finding out the factors drawing differences in educational performances of the educands. Data were collected from 566 students selected from eight educational institutions following multistage proportionate random sampling administering a self-administered questionnaire. Findings suggest that age, sex, grades and track of education followed by the size of the class and student-teacher ratio played decisive roles for the educational disparities between the urbanites and ruralites. However, the most crucial factors were parental education and income and the family’s overall financial capacity for supplementary education. Based on the results, it is strongly suggested that the government should involve all the stakeholders, including parents, students, and teachers, to formulate future education policies and address the socioeconomic composition of schools. Additionally, the administration also needs to provide adequate resources, including trained teachers and sufficient infrastructural and other academic facilities, to improve overall educational and learning environments to achieve all-inclusive quality education for all.