bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulation of Retrospective Morphological Channel Adjustments Using High-Resolution Differential Digital Elevation Models versus Predicted Sediment Delivery and Stream Power Variations
Authors: Conesa-García Carmelo , Martínez-Salvador Alberto , Puig-Mengual Carlos , Martínez-Capel Francisco , Pérez-Cutillas Pedro
Published: June 2023

This work proposes a methodological approach applied to ephemeral gravel-bed streams to verify the change in the magnitude and frequency of hydrological events affecting the morphological dynamics and sediment budget in this type of channel. For the case study the Azohía Rambla, located in southeastern Spain, was chosen, emphasizing the research on two reference riverbed sections (RCRs): an upper one, with a predominance of erosion, and a middle one, where processes of incision, transport, and deposition converge. First, this approach focuses on relationships between peak discharges and sediment budgets during the period 2018 to 2022. For this purpose, water level measurements from pressure sensors, a One-Dimensional Hydrodynamic model, and findings from comparative analyses of high-resolution differential digital elevation models (HRDEM of Difference - HRDoD) based on SfM-MVS and LiDAR datasets were used. In a second phase the GeoWEPP model was applied to the period 1996-2022 in order to simulate runoff and sediment yield at the event scale for the watersheds draining into both RCRs. During the calibration phase a sensitivity analysis was carried out to detect the most influential parameters in the model and to confirm its capacity to simulate peak flow and sediment delivery in the area described above. Values of NS (Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency) and PBIAS (percent bias) equal to 0.86 and 7.81%, respectively, were found in the calibration period, while these indices were 0.81 and -4.1% in the validation period. Finally, different event class patterns (ECPs) were established for the monitoring period (2018-2022), according to flow stage and morphological channel adjustments (overtopping, bankfull and sub-bankfull, and half-sub-bankfull), and then retrospectively extrapolated to stages of the prior simulated period (1996-2018) from their typical sequences (PECPs). The results revealed a significant increase in the number of events and PECPs leading to lower bed incision rates and higher vertical accretion, which denotes a progressive increase in bed armoring and bank erosion processes.
Inductive Sintering of Silver Micro Particles for Bonding of Microelectronic Components
Authors: Rochala Patrick , Hofmann Christian , Kroll Martin , Panhale Sushant , Javed Rezan , Hiller Karla
Published: June 2023

In this article, an efficient die bonding technology based on silver sintering due to induction heating is presented. By using this technology, the heat for the sintering reaction is locally limited to the bonding area and the heating of the entire power module is avoided. Furthermore, the sintering reaction is promoted due to current flow between the silver particles and the sintering time is drastically reduced. Next to the experimental trials presented in this paper, FE-simulation methods were applied in order to develop a suitable induction coil geometry for the bonding of a diode to a direct bonded copper (DBC) substrate. Additional heating and sintering tests verified the reliability of the simulation model as well as the technological approach. Diodes were successfully bonded during the experiments and were analyzed by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and function tests in order to qualify the inductive bonding technology. The results presented in this paper demonstrate, that induction heating has high potential for cost effective production in the field of die-attach and can drastically increase the output in power electronics production.
Study on the Regulation Mechanism of Quality Deterioration During the Anhydrous Storage and Transportation of Chilling Stress and Dry Exposure for scallop (Patinopecten Yessoensis)
Authors: Jiang Peihong , Chen Dongjie , Chang Xiangyang , Zhang Changfeng , Fan Xiuping , Qin Xiaoming
Published: June 2023

In this paper, the quality change of scallop (Patinopecten yessoensis) in the process of anhydrous storage and transportation after cold-acclimation and induced dormancy was studied, and the regulation mechanism of quality degradation in the storage and transportation in the process of gradient chilling stress and drying exposure was further explored. The results show that while being transferred from anhydrous storage and transportation from hydrous storage and transportation, the breathing pattern of scallops were changed from aerobic to anaerobic. Their gill filaments were altered, and the apparent vitality was constantly declining, which was reflected by the edge shrinkage of pallium and the direct proportion between the edge reduction rate and the stimulus response period. After being in the anhydrous state for 4d, the AEC value dropped to 67.59%. At this time, if they were under hydration again, they would resume a nice growth state. By virtue of proteomics, it was revealed from the analysis that cold acclimation and dry exposure mainly led to changes in biological functions and pathways such as mitochondrial inner membrane and ATP hydrolysis activity. In addition, it can be seen from the functional annotation and enrichment analysis of the metabolite KEGG that cold acclimation promoted the purine metabolism of scallops, while dry exposure inhibited the metabolism of saturated fatty acids. Besides, in this study, the infrared sensing mode was used for the first time to record the heart rate changes of the scallops during circulation, which provides feasibility for the nondestructive vitality monitoring of Lamellibranchia.
Comparison of Antibiotic Resistance of Escherichia coli Populations from Water or Sediment in Rivers Environments
Authors: Aline Skof , Koller Michael , Baumert Rita , Hautz Jürgen , Treiber Fritz Michael , Kittinger Clemens , Zarfel Gernot
Published: June 2023

The detection of antibiotic-resistant facultative pathogenic bacteria in surface waters is common in the present day. However, there is limited understanding of the factors that influence the spread and stabilization of resistance in this habitat, particularly regarding the role of biofilms. Despite the perceived differences between sediments, biofilms, and open water, their potential contribution to the long-term maintenance of resistances remains unclear. In this study, we investigated Escherichia coli isolates obtained from the Mur and Drava rivers in Austria. Samples were collected from both the water column and sediment at two locations per river: upstream and downstream of an urban area, including a sewage treatment plant. The iso-lates were subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility testing against 21 antibiotics belonging to seven distinct classes. Additionally, any isolates exhibiting an extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) or carbapenemase phenotype were further analyzed for the presence of specific antimi-crobial resistance genes. E. coli isolates obtained from the two rivers exhibited resistance to at least one of the tested anti-biotics, with rates of 25.83% and 23.66% respectively. The most prevalent antimicrobial re-sistances observed were towards ampicillin, amoxicillin-clavulanic acid, tetracycline, and na-lidixic acid. Surprisingly, there was a similar proportion of resistant bacteria observed in both open water and sediment samples, contrary to expectations. The difference in resistance levels between samples collected upstream and downstream of the cities was minimal. Out of the total isolates, 13 E. coli were found to carry ESBL genes with one isolate carrying the gene for KPC-2 carbapenemase. There were no significant differences between the biofilm (sediment) and open water samples in the occurrence of antimicrobial resistance. Even the difference between the samples upstream and downstream of the cities and their wastewater treatment plants was minor. There seems to be no evidence of a large adaptive effect in this analysed biofilm population of E. coli. The un-typical phenotype of the KPC-producing and some of the ESBL-producing E. coli from this study could, however, be an indication that such adaptation effects generally exist in water.
Efficacy of Pembrolizumab in Advanced Melanoma: A Narrative Review
Authors: Rizzetto Giulio , De Simoni Edoardo , Molinelli Elisa , Offidani Annamaria , Simonetti Oriana
Published: June 2023

Introduction: pembrolizumab showed to increase survival in patients with metastatic melanoma, Con-sidering the numerous oncoming studies, we decided to conduct a narrative review of the latest efficacy evidence regarding the use of pembrolizumab, alone or in combination, in patients with metastatic melanoma. (2) Methods: A search was conducted on Pubmed using "pembrolizumab," and "metastatic melanoma" as keywords, considering studies from 2022 onward. (3) results: we reviewed pembroli-zumab and associations, cost-effectiveness, virus, advanced acral melanoma, long-term outcomes, re-al-life data, biomarkers, obesity, and vaccines (4) Conclusions: pembrolizumab is a fundamental op-tion in the therapy of metastatic melanoma. However, a certain group of patients do not respond and therefore new combination options need to be evaluated. In particular, the use of vaccines tailored to tumor epitopes could represent a breakthrough in the treatment of resistant forms. Further studies with larger sample numbers are needed to confirm preliminary results.
Study on the Liquid Cooling Method of Longitudinal Flow Through cell gaps Applied to Cylindrical Close-packed Battery
Authors: Li Wei , Shi Wei , Xiong Shusheng , Huang Hai , Chen Guodong
Published: June 2023

A new longitudinal flow heat dissipation theory for cylindrical batteries is proposed in order to increase the energy density and uniform temperature performance of cylindrical lithium-ion battery packs while also shrinking their size by roughly 10%. First, a genetic algorithm is used to identify the single cell's thermal properties. Based on this, modeling and simulation are used to examine the thermal properties of the longitudinal flow-cooled battery pack. It is found that the best coolant flow scheme has one inlet and one outlet from the end face, taking into account the cooling effect of the battery pack and engineering viability. Lastly, Thermal Dummy Cells (TDC) is used to conduct a validation test of the liquid cooling strategy. Additionally, the simulation and test results demonstrated that the liquid cooling solution can keep the battery pack's maximum temperature rise under the static conditions of a continuous, high-current discharge at a rate of 3C to 20 °C and under the dynamic conditions of the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) to 2 °C. In applications where the space requirements for the battery pack are quite severe, the longitudinal flow cooling method has some advantages.
Expression of the Reaction Selectivity and the Substituent Effect in Coupling Reactions by Reducing the Catalyst Loading
Authors: Kawase Misa , Shibata Tomohiro , Masuu Shouhei , Yamaguchi Masaki , Matsumura Yoshimasa , Shimomura Osamu , Ohtaka Atsushi
Published: June 2023

The control of stereo-, regio-, and chemo-selectivity in transition-metal-catalyzed coupling reactions is a key topic in organic synthesis. Several methods for controlling selectivity have been reported thus far. On the other hand, the reduction of the catalyst loading in the reaction is one of the most important issues in organic synthesis from the standpoint of green sustainable chemistry. As another advantage of reducing the catalyst loading, the expression of the reaction selectivity and the substituent effect caused by the reduction of the catalyst loading to the parts-par-million (ppm) level in various catalytic reactions is presented herein.
Sex/gender Differences in the Language Profiles of Italian Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Barsotti Jessica , Mangani Gloria , Nencioli Roberta , Narzisi Antonio , Pfanner Lucia , Chilosi Anna Maria , Cipriani Paola , Mancini Alice , Cosenza Angela , Tancredi Raffaella , Calderoni Sara
Published: June 2023

Sex/gender (S/G) differences in ASD language profiles have been poorly investigated. The present study aims to explore whether male (M) and female (F) children with ASD and with normal non-verbal cognitive abilities differ in their linguistic profiles. A sample of 76 Italian children with ASD (range: 4.9 – 8 years), including 50 M and 26 F, was retrospectively recruited. Language profiles were analyzed using standardized tests for the evaluation of receptive and expressive vocabulary as well as grammar. Grammatical comprehension was the most impaired domain compared to the other language measures in both M and F children. Comparing language profiles between S/G, F showed significantly better scores than M in grammatical production (p=.002), and M showed better active negative sentences comprehension (p=.035). Moreover, comparing the language profiles between M and F with receptive disorder, F had significantly worse grammatical comprehension and better grammatical production than M. Even among children without receptive disorder, F had significantly higher grammatical production scores. The S/G differences in language profile, particularly better expressive language in F than M, can partially contribute to the delayed ASD diagnosis or underdiagnosis of F without intellectual disability. Finally, our results document the importance of accurately investigating both expressive and receptive abilities in children with ASD.
Disturbance Observer Based Robust Take-off Control for a Semi-submersible Permeable Slender Hybrid Unmanned Aerial Underwater Quadrotor
Authors: Fei Liao , Ye Dezhang
Published: June 2023

The development of hybrid unmanned aerial underwater vehicles (HAUVs) compatible with the advantages of the aerial vehicles and the underwater vehicles is of great significance. This paper presents the first study on a new HAUV layout using four rotors to realize the medium crossing motion of a transverse slender body similar to the fuselage of a missile or a submarine, that is the hybrid aerial underwater quadrotor (HAUQ). Then a robust control strategy is proposed for the take-off HAUQ on the water in the presence of unknown disturbances and complex model dynamic uncertainties. As a semi-submersible HAUQ rises straightly from the water, the inside of the slender fuselage placed horizontally is filled with water. The center of the mass, the moment of inertia, and the arm of force of the HAUQ will change rapidly in the takeoff phase from the water since the rapid non-uniform change of mass caused by the passive fast drainage. It is difficult to establish a accurate mathematical model of the complex dynamic changes caused by the multi-media dynamics, the fast changing buoyancy, and the added mass crossing air–water surface. Therefore, an uncertain kinematic and dynamic model is established through the passive fast nonuniform change and the complex dynamics are considered as the unknown terms, and the external disturbances of gust and other factors are assumed as the bounded disturbance input. A robust design approach is introduced to deal with the fast time-varying mass disturbance based on the input-to-state stability (ISS) theorem. The complex dynamics are estimated using the basis function and the unknown weight parameters, and the adaptive laws are adopted for the on-line estimation of the unknown weight parameters. Consider the residual disturbance of the uncertain nonlinear system as a total disturbance term, a disturbance observer is introduced for disturbance observation. The numerical simulation shows the feasibility and robustness of the proposed algorithm.
Superiority of TiO2 Supported on the Nickel Foam Over Ni Doped TiO2 in the Photothermal Decomposition of Acetaldehyde
Authors: Tryba Beata , Miądlicki Piotr , Rychtowski Piotr , Trzeciak Maciej , Wróbel Rafał Jan
Published: June 2023

Acetaldehyde decomposition was performed under heating at the temperature range of 25-125oC and UV irradiation on TiO2 doped by the metallic Ni powder and TiO2 supported on the nickel foam. Process was carried out in high temperature reaction chamber “The Praying MantisTM”, with simultaneous in situ FTIR measurements and UV irradiation. Ni powder was added to TiO2 in the quantity of 0.5 to 5.0 wt%. Photothermal measurements of acetaldehyde decomposition indicated, that the highest yield of acetaldehyde conversion on TiO2 und UV irradiation was obtained at 75oC. Doping of nickel to TiO2 did not increase its photocatalytic activity. Contrary to that, application of nickel foam as a support for TiO2 appeared to be highly advantageous, because increased decomposition of acetaldehyde from 31 to 52% at 25oC and then to 85% at 100oC by comparison with TiO2 itself. At the same time mineralisation of acetaldehyde to CO2 increased two times at the presence of nickel foam. However, oxidised nickel foam used as support for TiO2 was detrimental. Most likely, different mechanisms of electrons transfer between Ni-TiO2 and NiO-TiO2 occurred. Application of nickel foam greatly enhanced separation of free carriers in TiO2. As a consequence, high yields of the photocatalytic reactions were obtained.
Genomic Surveillance of Rabies Virus in Georgian Canines
Authors: Huaman Celeste , Paskey Adrian C. , Clouse Caitlyn , Feasley Austin , Rader Madeline , Rice Gregory K , Luquette Andrea E , Fitzpatrick Maren C , Drumm Hannah M , Cer Regina Z , Donduashvili Marina , Buchukuri Tamar , Nanava Anna , Hulseberg Christine E , Washington Michael A , Laing Eric D , Malagon Francisco , Bishop-Lilly Kimberly A , Broder Christopher C , Schaefer Brian C
Published: June 2023

Rabies is a fatal zoonosis that is considered a re-emerging infectious disease. Although rabies remains endemic in canines throughout much of the world, vaccination programs have essentially eliminated dog rabies in the Americas and much of Europe. However, despite the goal of eradicating dog rabies in the European Union by 2020, sporadic cases of dog rabies still occur in Eastern Europe, including Georgia. To assess the genetic diversity of strains recently circulating in Georgia, we sequenced 78 RABV-positive samples from brain tissues of rabid dogs and jackals using Illumina short-read sequencing of total RNA shotgun libraries. Seventy-seven RABV genomes were successfully assembled and annotated, 74 of them to the coding complete status. Phylogenetic analyses of the nucleoprotein (N) and attachment glycoprotein (G) genes placed all the assembled genomes into the Cosmopolitan clade, consistent with the Georgian origin of the samples. Amino acid alignment of the G glycoprotein ectodomain identified twelve different sequences for this domain among the samples. Only one of the ectodomain groups contained a residue change in an antigenic site, an R264H change in the G5 antigenic site. Three isolates were cultured, and these were found to be efficiently neutralized by human monoclonal antibody A6. Overall, our data show that recently circulating RABV isolates from Georgian canines are predominantly closely related phylogroup I viruses of the Cosmopolitan clade. Current rabies vaccines should offer protection against infection by Georgian canine RABVs. The genomes have been deposited in GenBank (accessions: OQ603609-OQ603685).
Enhancing the Glacial Lake Inventory in Bhutan through Semi-Automatic Techniques using Google Earth Engine and QGIS for the Phochhu Basin
Authors: Selden Chimi , Selden Chimi , Norbu Rinchen
Published: June 2023

Bhutan located in the Hindu Kush Himalayan (HKH) region consists of several glaciers and glacial lakes at higher elevations.  With the rapid change in global temperature, glaciers are found to melt at an accelerated rate. This rapid melt of glaciers gets accumulated in weak moraine walls forming a glacial lake, posing a major threat to the downstream communities. As per the Bhutan Glacial Lake Inventory 2021, Bhutan has 567 glacial lakes. Furthermore, the Phochhu basin has the maximum glacial lakes (0.05%) and of which 9 are PDGL. Hence a need for a time monitoring system is imminent. With the availability of free High-resolution Satellite Imageries and Advanced Remote Sensing tools, it has been a sine qua no for monitoring glacial lakes in high areas. Therefore, using the Google Earth Engine and Qgis Platform a semi-automated technique was used to generate glacial lake inventories for Phochhu Sub-basin for the year 2021.  We found out that there are 166 glacial lakes covering an area of 24.051 km2.
Shape of Pediatric Supracondylar Humeral Fractures: Procrustes Analysis
Authors: Tomaszewski Ryszard , Dajka Jerzy
Published: June 2023

Shape of supracondylar fracture of the humeral of pediatric patients is analysed with Procrustes method. XR–images of fractures are considered both in anterio-posterior (AP) view (66 images) and in a lateral (L) view (24 images). Applying Procrustes method for both views mean images are constructed and compared. Variability of shapes is quantified with a shape principal component analysis. Non-parametric tests (permutational and bootstrap) do not indicate statistical difference between Procrustes mean shapes in anterio-posterior and lateral projections. It is shown, however, that AP and L shapes of humeral fractures differ in their variability quantified by shape principal components.
An In-depth Analysis of Strength and Stiffness Variability in 3D-Printed Sandstones: Implications for Geomechanics
Authors: Sanchez-Barra Angel , Zambrano-Narvaez Gonzalo , Chalaturnyk Rick
Published: June 2023

Natural rocks are highly heterogeneous due to various geological processes that constantly alter their properties. The accumulation, deposition, and cementation of mineral and organic particles continuously modify the spatial characteristics of rock properties. Property variability or anisotropy is commonly observed in most rock types and influences strength, transport, and thermal conductivity behavior. This unpredictability presents a significant challenge for laboratory testing. Binder-jet additive manufacturing (3D printing) has emerged as a valuable technology for characterizing rock properties in geoscience and engineering. This study proposes a methodology to evaluate the variability and repeatability of mechanical properties of 3D-printed sandstones during binder-jet additive manufacturing. The mechanical properties were analyzed statistically for samples located in various parts of the 3D printer build volume. The results showed that the 3D-printed sandstones exhibited significant variations in their strength and stiffness properties when measured from samples produced within the same build volume during binder-jet additive manufacturing. The Uniaxial Compressive Strength (UCS) varied from 23 to 38 MPa, with an average value of 29 MPa. The Young's modulus, on the other hand, ranged from 1.5 to 4.05 GPa, with an average value of 2.33 GPa. The variability of the mechanical properties, quantified by the standard deviation, decreased when the entire population of 3D-printed sandstones was divided into smaller samples situated at different elevations of the build platform.
A LLVM JIT Prototype for Running an Energy-Saving Hardware-Aware Mapping Algorithm on C/C++ Applications that use Pthreads
Authors: Știrb Iulia , Gillich Gilbert-Rainer
Published: June 2023

Low-Level Virtual Machine (LLVM) compiler infrastructure is a useful tool for building Just-in-time (JIT) compilers, besides its reliable front-end represented by clang compiler and its elaborated middle-end containing different optimizations that improve the runtime performance. This paper addresses specifically the part of building a JIT compiler using LLVM with the scope of getting the hardware architecture details of the underlying machine such as the number of cores and the number of logical cores per processing unit and providing them to NUMA-BTLP static thread classification algorithm and to NUMA-BTDM static thread mapping algorithm. Afterwards, the hardware-aware algorithms are run by the JIT compiler within an optimization pass. JIT compiler in this paper is designed to run on a parallel C/C++ application (which creates threads using Pthreads), before the first time the application is executed on a machine. To do that, the JIT compiler takes the native code of the application, gets the corresponding LLVM IR (Intermediate Representation) for the native code and executes the hardware-aware thread classification and the thread mapping algorithms on the IR. The NUMA-Balanced Task and Loop Parallelism (NUMA-BTLP) and NUMA-Balanced Thread and Data Mapping (NUMA-BTDM) are expected to optimize the energy consumption up to 15%, on NUMA systems.
Conversion of Polypropylene (PP) foams into Auxetic Metamaterials
Authors: Chen Xiao Yuan , Rodrigue Denis
Published: June 2023

In this work, a simple and environmentally friendly process combining low pressure (vacuum) and mechanical compression is proposed to convert recycled polypropylene (PP) foams (28 kg/m3) into low density foams (90-131 kg/m3) having negative tensile and compressive Poisson's ratios (NPR). The effect of processing conditions (vacuum time, temperature, and mechanical pressure) was studied. Based on the optimized conditions, the tensile Poisson’s ratio of the resulting auxetic foams reached −1.50, while the minimum compressive Poisson's ratios was −0.32 for the same sample. The foam structure was characterized via morphological analysis (SEM) to determine any changes related to the treatment applied. Finally, tensile and compressive properties (Young's modulus, strain energy, energy dissipation and damping capacity) are also presented and discussed. It was observed that the mechanical properties of the resulting auxetic foams were improved compared to the original PP foam (PP-O) for all tensile properties in terms of modulus (19.9 to 59.8 kPa), strength (0.298 to 1.43 kPa) elongation at break (28 to 77%), energy dissipation (14.4 to 56.3 mJ/cm3) and damping capacity (12 to 19%). Nevertheless, improvements were also observed under compression in terms of energy dissipation (1.6 to 3.6 mJ/cm3) and damping capacity (13 to 19%). These auxetic foams can find applications in sport and military protective equipment, as well as any energy mitigation system.
Photoaligned Tunable Liquid Crystal Lenses with Parabolic Phase Profile
Authors: Bielykh Svitlana , Lucchetti Liana , Reshetnyak Victor Yu.
Published: June 2023

We present a theoretical modeling of a cylindrical tunable liquid crystal lens based on the modulation of the anchoring energy. This latter can be easily obtained by means of photoaligning techniques. The liquid crystal cell we propose exhibits strong anchoring at the top substrate and an anchoring energy with parabolic profile at the bottom substrate. The model describes the dependence of the focal length on the applied voltage and presents a theoretical study of lens aberrations. The results obtained are of general relevance and can be used to optimize the performances of every kind of liquid crystal lens with parabolic profile.
Switchable and Tunable Terahertz Metamaterial Based on Vanadium Dioxide and Photosensitive Silicon
Authors: Zhang Xin , Wang Guan , Liu Jia , Zuo Shiyi , Li Meichen , Yang Shuang , Jia Yang , Gao Yachen
Published: June 2023

A switchable and tunable terahertz (THz) metamaterial based on photosensitive silicon and Vanadium dioxide (VO2) was proposed. By using finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method, the transmission and reflective properties of the metamaterial were investigated theoretically. The results imply that, the metamaterial can realize a dual electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT) or two narrow-band absorption depending on the temperature of the VO2. Additionally, the magnitude of the EIT and two narrow-band absorption can be tuned by varying the conductivity of photosensitive silicon (PSi) via pumping light. Correspondingly, the slow light effect accompanying the EIT can also be adjusted.
An integrated IoT Architecture to Monitor Food Quality along the Supply Chain
Authors: James Divya , Lakshmi Priya T. K. S.
Published: June 2023

Drop in nutrition value during food logistics impacts the health of consumers. Vegetables, fruits, fish, milk lose nutrients during logistics if it is not properly monitored. Real-time tracking and monitoring, large data handling and secure business transactions are key to the effective operation of supply chains. The COVID-19 pandemic has taught us the need for handling unforeseen situations in various sectors. Limitations to logistic operations, inaccessible warehouses, shutdown of consumer outlets for an unexpected duration, have affected the supply chain drastically. This has laid emphasis on the need for technology-based solutions that can monitor, control and make quick decisions, that can reduce losses. With this scenario as a background, a system architecture has been proposed to detect the nutrient value of food by periodically monitoring temperature and humidity in real-time and alerting the cold chain entities in cold chain environments. This architecture is proposed as an integration of Internet of Things (IoT) with cloud-based storage, to provide real-time data collection at the end-user, seamless storage and computation in the cloud and secure transactions at the business layer. An experimental setup of the system architecture has been configured and the implementation has been tested at a preliminary level. The performance of the application is analyzed and the proposed web application is efficient for large scale supply chain applications, provided scaling of hardware resources.
Triple Burden of Malnutrition among Preschool Children in India: Age Stratifed Analysis
Authors: Tonpe Mayura , Dixit Priyanka
Published: June 2023

In spite of the implementation of several nutrition specifc initiatives in the country, India is still struggling to limit burden of malnutrition among preschool children. The aim of this study was to identify the correlates of the Double (DBM) and Triple (TBM) Burden of Malnutrition among children in India. Information about 1,99,534 children in the age group 6-59 months was obtained from the fourth round of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS - 4). For age stratifed analysis, age groups were created as 6-23 months, 24-35 months and 35+ months. The prevalence of DBM and TBM was found to be 40% and 16% respectively. All children who belonged to Scheduled Caste (SC) or Scheduled Tribe (ST) and to poorest household and born at higher birth orders, etc were found to be signifcantly affected with DBM and TBM. The study recommends that government policies need to specifcally address nutritional needs of socially disadvantaged children. Also, policies should acknowledge the importance of women’s education and awareness about family planning practices to control its effect on child malnutrition.
In vitro Study of Antioxidant, Antidiabetic and Antimicrobial Activities of Solanum Torvum Root
Authors: Saranya K. , Dinesh kumar S. , Gokulraj M. , Iyyappan K. , Manivasagan V.
Published: June 2023

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder with characteristics of multiple aetiology of chronic hyperglycaemia. These effects include dysfunction and long-term degeneration of various organs. Characteristics of diabetes mellitus include polyuria, blurred vision, thirst, and weight loss. Many types of insulin are available, for example porcine insulin, beef insulin, and human insulin. Weight gain and hypoglycaemia are the most adverse effects of using insulin. Insulin binds to sulfonylurea receptors on β-cell plasma membranes. In this study, ethanolic extract of Solanum torvum root was used to study ATP-sensitive potassium channels, which lead to depolarized cell membranes. The ethanolic extract was also analysed for antioxidant activities by free radical 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl hydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging method. The different concentration of extracts exhibited varying result of radical scavenging activity using DPPH as substrate. The root of Solanum torvum exhibited significant α-amylase (79.56%) and α-glucosidase (80.58%) inhibitory activities at the concentration 100 μg/ml respectively when compared with standard acarbose drug. It also showed a good antioxidant activity with 65.47% when compared with standard ascorbic acid. The ethanolic extract of Solanum torvum root has a potential antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Candida tropicalis. Thus, Solanum torvum is a better source for natural antioxidant, anti-diabetic and anti-microbial activities due to presence of natural compounds in it.
Fast Foods Consumption Impact on Physical Health of Adolescent Girls
Authors: Tomer Vinita , Chaudhary Sonika
Published: June 2023

The fast food industry in India became the fastest growing company in the last decade as many global companies entered the market to expand their market share and region of operations. Adolescents are an aggressive target of food marketing messages (primarily for unhealthy foods) and are susceptible to these messages due to their developmental vulnerabilities and the influence of peer groups. The negative impact on adolescent weight and insulin resistance was seen in all participants who ate frequently at fast food restaurants.
Use of Nutritional Ergogenic Aids by Adults Training for Health-Related Fitness in Gymnasia- A Scoping Review
Authors: Sindhuja M. , Verma Lalita , Gupta Lovely , Lal Priti R.
Published: June 2023

Globally, availability and usage of supplements by recreational young people in gymnasia is on the rise. Although certain aspects related to nutritional ergogenic aids and supplements prescribed in traditional Indian medicine, have been reported, no comprehensive global review is yet available. This Scoping Review was, therefore conducted in view of the gaps in research, needs for capacity building of concerned professionals, strengthening of knowledge, attitudes of trainees and for policy / regulations. A total of 16 key words were framed and 5 search engines were explored for this review. Through this search procedure 278 research papers were scrutinized (from 2000-to date) of which 31 were included, highlights higher prevalence of supplement use amongst males v/s females attending gymnasia. The most used supplements were nutrients and pharmacy (multivitamins, creatine), proteins (whey, amino acids), rationale of intake, dietary adequacy with respect to nutrients were not reported in the study. Main reason for use was a quest for increased immunity, weight gain and increased strength. The main sources of influence were gym coaches, medical supervisors and family-friends. Most common places of purchase were stores, gym / fitness centres and the internet. The review concludes that there is further scope of researching all age groups, gender differences in supplement use, basis of goal setting, efficacy of supplements in meeting the desired goals, KAP of influencing professional, mapping constructs for capacity building and potential suggestions for policy and regulations within fitness centres, especially in the Indian context.
Calcium and vitamin D supplementation to pregnant women in urban hospital and community settings
Authors: Pramanik Amrita , Palika Ravindranadh , Pullakhandam Raghu , Kalaivani K. , Ramachandran Prema
Published: June 2023

In India, calcium intake is low and the prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency in pregnant women is high. The National Guidelines envisage elemental calcium 500 mg (as calcium carbonate salt) and 250 IU vitamin D supplements should be provided to pregnant and lactating women. In Delhi, iron folic acid tablets are given twice a day after meals in anaemic women and one tablet of calcium and vitamin D daily after a meal in all pregnant women. A study was taken up to assess the availability and compliance with calcium and vitamin D supplementation in primary health care institutions under research (Group 1 - 387 women) and service conditions (Group 2 - 400 women) and in urban community setting (Group 3 - 448 women). Women in Group 1 received Ca and Vitamin D tablets regularly from the research staff. In Group 2 and Group 3 tablets, were provided as and when government supplies were available and prescriptions were given when they were not available. Ca and Vitamin D tablets were expensive; families bought the tablets as and when they had the funds. As a result, the number of tablets available for consumption was lower in Group 2 and 3. In all three groups, side effects were rare and nearly all available tablets were consumed. In Group 1, Vitamin D estimation was done at enrolment and after supplementation for three months; 83% of women at enrolment and 68% of women after three months of supplementation had serum vitamin D levels below 20 ng/ml. These data suggest that one tablet of Ca and Vit D per day is insufficient for correcting maternal vitamin D deficiency. It is essential to carry out studies to assess the impact of supplementation with two tablets of Ca and Vit D on maternal vitamin D levels.
Assessment of Type 2 Diabetes Risk in General Population using Bitter Taste Sensitivity Status to Phenylthiocarbamide - A Pilot Study
Authors: Kumar Bhupender , Bansal Savita , Kapila Disha , Thakur Rishu , Bhati Surbhi , Grover Nikita , Trilok-Kumar Geeta , Burman Archana
Published: June 2023

Eating habits and genetic factors contribute to diseases such as obesity and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). Variation in bitter taste perception has been linked with intake of alcohol, coffee, vegetable, and smoking habit as well as with adiposity, a risk factor for diabetes development. Therefore, it was hypothesized that bitter taste perception could lead to differences in eating/drinking behavior among individuals, which may lead T2DM development later in the life. Bitter taste sensitivity was assessed using paper strips having supra-threshold concentration of Phenyl Thio Carbamide (PTC). Lifestyle variables were assessed using standard anthropometry measurements and a questionnaire. T2DM risk was assessed using a point based system developed by Finnish Diabetes Association (FINDRISC score). SPSS software was used for statistical analysis. A total of 498 volunteers from New Delhi region participated in the present study, where the mean age of PTC tasters was 24 ± 12 years and for non-tasters was 29 ± 16 years. PTC taster status was significantly correlated with age (p ≤ 0.01), weight (p ≤ 0.05), BMI (p ≤ 0.05) and waste circumference (p ≤ 0.05). A positive correlation was observed for type of chocolate liking (r = 0.113, p ≤ 0.001) and for T2DM risk (p ≤ 0.012) with PTC non-taster status. Logistic regression analysis showed that PTC non-taster individuals are at a higher risk (OR: 1.558, 95% CI: 1.037-2.342, p=0.033) for developing T2DM in the next ten years. Present results have shown that bitter taste sensitivity modulates liking towards certain food and non-tasters for PTC have a higher BMI, weight and are at a higher risk for T2DM development. PTC tasting could be employed as a method for assessing risk of diabetes in healthy individuals. We recommend large scale screening among young adults to promote awareness and early prevention measures.
Current Information on Capsicum frutescens: A Critical Review of Pharmacological Potential
Authors: Chinnkar Meetali , Jadhav Pratima
Published: June 2023

Capsicum frutescens is a species of the Solanaceae family of the genus Capsicum, which has around 20 species, five of which are regularly cultivated: “Capsicum annuum, Capsicum baccatum, Capsicum chinense, Capsicum frutescens, and Capsicum pubescens.” Since ancient times, C. frutescens has been used to taste and colour food all throughout the world. However, it is also employed for its medical benefits by many civilizations all over the world. This prompted researchers to concentrate on its chemical components, which led to a number of studies. The components isolated from C. frutescens such as capsaicinoids, carotenoids, and saponins authenticated its antibacterial, antidiabetic, anti-fungal, cardiovascular, thrombolytic, anti-cancer, and anti-oxidant activities along with a few more through various studies. This review focuses on all the pharmacological properties of these components highlighting the significance of Capsicum frutescens in herbal medicine.
Standardisation and Quality Evaluation of Barnyard Millet Incorporated Probiotic Yoghurt
Authors: U.A. Amrutha , C. L. Sharon , Panjikkaran Seeja Thomachan , P.S. Lakshmy , A. K. Beena
Published: June 2023

Millets are said to be nutri-cereals because they provide most of the nutrients required for normal functioning of human body. It can be fermented for increasing their nutrient quality and digestibility, as well as their sensory qualities and functional qualities for local populations. Probiotics can be used to ferment millet which may enhance the nutritional content and bioavailability of nutrients in millets, and when administered in adequate amounts can confer health benefits for the host. In this context, standardisation of barnyard millet based yoghurt was done. Treatments with various combinations were tried, among which 50 % milk and 50 % millet slurry was selected as the best with mean scores of 8.67 for appearance, 8.76 for colour, 8.60 for flavour, 8.60 for taste, 8.62 for texture and 8.69 for overall acceptability. A 25 g of the barnyard millet based yoghurt was fermented with1 ml of probiotic culture (L. acidophilus) and 2 ml of yoghurt culture, incubated for 6 h at 38º C. The nutrients of non-probiotic barnyard millet based yoghurt along with probiotic yoghurt was assessed, and it was found to have moisture content of 85.05 and 87.03 %, acidity 0.72 and 0.81 %, pH 4.02 and 3.88, carbohydrate 8.76 and 8.58 %, protein 3.49 and 3.52 %, fat 0.59 and 0.63 %,TSS 12° brix and 11° brix, reducing sugar 8.33 and 7.55 %, total sugar 11.55 and 10.99 % crude fibre 0.60 and 0.50 % and total ash 0.68 and 0.69 %, respectively.
Environmental Impact of Conventional Rice Cultivation using Life Cycle Analysis
Authors: R. Alphonso , A. Thirumani Devi
Published: June 2023

Rice is the staple cereal in most Asian countries. Agriculture and food production accounts for nearly a third of global GreenHouse Gas Emissions (GHGE), where rice has a significant contribution. This study quantifies the environmental impact of conventional rice cultivation using Life Cycle Analysis, which assesses every process, input and output in the cultivation system and measures the environmental impacts. The top six impacts in the production of 1000 kg paddy in one field in North East India was terrestrial toxicity (245.548 kg 1,4-DCB), global warming (144.283 Kg CO2 eq), human non-carcinogenic toxicity (83.905 kg 1,4-DCB), fossil fuel scarcity (38.760 kg oil eq.). More of such data is necessary to create a nation-wide database, so that consumers and policy makers can make proper decisions not only based on nutritional content or safety of food, but also in terms of their environmental impact.
Ghana’s Digital Addressing Design - Reality Gulf
Authors: Kubuga Kennedy Kumangkem , Ofori Philomina Pomaah , Abiam Solomon , Nantogmah Frederick , Ayoung Azerikatoa Daniel
Published: June 2023

Purpose
The research set out to review the implementation of Ghana’s efforts at implementation of a Digital Addressing System. Nearly six years into implementation and without outward appearance of the meeting of the announced goals of the project, the research sets out to find out the likelihood of success or failure of the project and suggest remedial measures.
Methods
Using a variety of quantitative and qualitative techniques the study assessed the implementation of the policy employing interviews, surveys, workshops and group discussion. It hinged on the Design-Reality Gap (DRG) model to identify the issues of interest with Ghana's digital addressing systems.
Results
We found out that the attempts, although well intended, fall short in several best practice aspects. The research found it difficult to confidently showcase any immediate successes arising out of the implementation of the GhanaPostGPS App and System and proceeds to point out specific areas in need of attention if Ghana’s Digital Addressing efforts are to meet the presumptive goals.
Conclusion
The Digital Addressing System might be a partial failure unless action is taken to close design-reality gaps.
Glycemic Control in People With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Seen in Primary Care During the Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: VILANOVA CARLOS DALTON DE AVILA , Sporquio Natasha Gazzolla , Barcelos Laureana de Quevedo , Marques Clandio Timm , Colpo Elisangela
Published: June 2023

Purpose:
In Brazil, diabetes mellitus represents 8.8% of the population between 20 and 79 years of age. Disease control is associated with adherence to healthy lifestyle habits, promoting adequate glycemic control monitored by glycated hemoglobin. Therefore, the objective of this study was to analyze the glycemic control of people with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Material and methods:
The present research was a cross-sectional descriptive study. Through glycated hemoglobin, it evaluated the glycemic control of people with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus during two periods of the pandemic. The first period was from March 2020 to June 2021, and the second was from July 2021 to February 2022.
Results:
There was a significant reduction in glycated hemoglobin from 8.4% in the pandemic period to 8% (p=0.035) in the stabilization period. This reduction was most evident in the group with glycated hemoglobin ≥7 in the pandemic period (p=0.007) and among women (p=0.008). The group who reduced their consumption of ultra-processed foods lowered a glycated hemoglobin from 8.3% to 7.6% (p=0.010), and those who used antidepressants decreased it from 7.6% to 7% (p=0.032).
Conclusion:
A reduction in the glycated hemoglobin of people with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Is central venous catheter in haemodialysis still the main factor of mortality after hospitalization?
Authors: Campos Erwin , Cuevas-Budhart Miguel Angel , Cedillo-Flores Renata , Candelario-López Julian , Jimenez Rigoberto , Flores-Almonte Alberto , Ramos-Sanchez Alfonso
Published: June 2023

Background
Haemodialysis is the most used Renal Replacement Therapy modality worldwide. But patients undergoing this treatment have an unpredictable evolution related to vascular access.
Objective
To determine the factors associated with the mortality and hospitalization rate in haemodialysis patients at a third-level care Center in the Dominican Republic.
Methods
This was an observational and prospective study involving a cohort of 192 haemodialysis patients. The patient selection was non-probabilistic for convenience, and a direct source questionnaire was applied.
Results
Of the 192 patients in the cohort, 103 (53.6%) were hospitalized and analysed. The most frequent cause of hospitalization was catheter-related bloodstream infections (53.4%). Almost one-third (28.2%) of the hospitalized patients died, mostly from infections13 (12.6%). Of those who died 29 patients, 90% had a Central venous catheter (CVC) with a non-tunnelled catheter (NTC) (65.5%). Having an NTC CVC makes a patient 85.5 times more likely to be hospitalized than patients with arteriovenous fistulas.
Conclusion
Vascular access plays a predominant role in the hospitalization and mortality rates in haemodialysis. Patients with an arteriovenous fistula obtained better outcomes than those with central venous catheters.