bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deep Reinforcement Learning for Task Offloading and Power Allocation in UAV-Assisted MEC System
Authors: Zhao Nan , Ren Fan , Du Wei , Ye Zhiyang
Published: November 2021

Mobile edge computing (MEC) can provide computing services for mobile users (MUs) by offloading computing tasks to edge clouds through wireless access networks. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are deployed as supplementary edge clouds to provide effective MEC services for MUs with poor wireless communication condition. In this paper, a joint task offloading and power allocation (TOPA) optimization problem is investigated in UAV-assisted MEC system. Since the joint TOPA problem has a strong non-convex characteristic, a method based on deep reinforcement learning is proposed. Specifically, the joint TOPA problem is modeled as Markov decision process. Then, considering the large state space and continuous action space, a twin delayed deep deterministic policy gradient algorithm is proposed. Simulation results show that the proposed scheme has lower smoothing training cost than other optimization methods.
A Comprehensive Study of the Market Determinants Impacting Sustainable Packaging
Authors: Thakur Anusha
Published: November 2021

The packaging industry has considerably been witnessing significant growth over the past few years. In today's scenario, incorporating sustainable practices in packaging businesses is becoming a standard. Whether it is due to the preferences of manufacturers, regulatory standards, consumer pressure, or retailer's choice, the eco-friendly packaging solutions are increasingly attaining a rise in demand. Shifting trends towards environmental efficiency have led to an increase in focus on fewer resources, lesser energy, as well as a smaller footprint among various packaging businesses. In order to cater to the potential pressure stemming from these trends, advanced level of agility and technological innovation is gaining traction. Hence, re-inventing and re-thinking by packaging industries poses strong and concrete opportunities for the transformational shift towards sustainability solutions thereby also eliminating the plastic packaging issues in different sectors. This paper discusses the determinants impacting sustainable packaging along with the market analysis for the same.
A Model for Selecting Information Technology Solutions in Banking Institutions
Authors: Ibitomi Rotimi Adediran , Iyamu Tiko
Published: November 2021

Despite increasing technological dynamism and plausibility in many environments, poor services continue to be rendered because the IT solutions that are selected, deployed and used by the Nigerian banks are challenged by both technical and non-technical factors. The challenges could be attributed to lack of evaluation, causing ineffectiveness, inefficiency, and inconsistency in the processes, interactions and activities where IT solutions are applied. Thus, the study’s objectives is to identify, examine and gain an understanding of the factors that influence the selection, deployment and evaluation of the IT solutions that are used by the Nigerian banks. The interpretivist approach and qualitive method were followed. Following the interpretivist paradigm, the analysis was conducted using the hermeneutics approach. Based on the findings and interpretation, a model was developed, intended for actors that have stake in IT solutions in the two banks, to gain better understanding of the factors that can influence evaluation.
Hybrid Rough Set With Black Hole Optimization-Based Feature Selection Algorithm for Protein Structure Prediction
Authors: Inbarani Hannah H. , Azar Ahmad Taher , Azar Ahmad Taher , Mathiyazhagan Bagyamathi
Published: November 2021

In this paper, a new approach for hybridizing Rough Set Quick Reduct and Relative Reduct approaches with Black Hole optimization algorithm is proposed. This algorithm is inspired of black holes. A black hole is a region of spacetime where the gravitational field is so strong that nothing— not even light— that enters this region can ever escape from it. Every black hole has a mass and charge. In this Algorithm, each solution of problem is considered as a black hole and gravity force is used for global search and the electrical force is used for local search. The proposed algorithm is compared with leading algorithms such as, Rough Set Quick Reduct, Rough Set Relative Reduct, Rough Set particle swarm optimization based Quick Reduct, Rough Set based PSO Relative Reduct, Rough Set Harmony Search based Quick Reduct, and Rough Set Harmony Search based Relative Reduct.
Governmentality of Value Added Tax Compliance Using Electronic Fiscal Devices in Malawi
Authors: Makoza Frank
Published: November 2021

This paper critically analysed the implementation of electronic fiscal devices (EFD) in supporting value added tax (VAT) compliance. The study draws on the concept of governmentality to highlight ways of exercising power and authority among VAT stakeholders using the case of Malawi. The findings showed that tax regime discourse was important in shaping the ways of thinking and acting of stakeholders in the implementation of EFD. Complex relationships emerged as a result of implementing EFD between the revenue authority and VAT registered operators, foreign-owned businesses, business associations, government agencies, and donors. While the revenue authority managed to achieve VAT compliance using EFD, there was resistance from VAT registered operators and business organisations which affected the growth of the tax regime and financing of the national budget. The study contributes to the understanding of EFD use and VAT compliance in the context of developing countries.
Chrysin ameliorates STZ-induced diabetes in rats
Authors: Salama Abeer , Asaad Gihan F. , Shaheen Aya
Published: November 2021

Background and purpose:

Growing evidence advocates that upregulation of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) has been suggested as a causative influence in the development and complications of diabetes mellitus. We aimed to study the antidiabetic activity of chrysin against streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetesviadown-regulation of TLR4/nuclear factor (NF-κβ)/heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) pathway as well as modulation of clusters of differentiation 4 (CD4+) in rats.

Experimental approach:

Fifty rats were divided into five groups (n = 10). Group I, normal rats received a single intraperitoneal injection of buffer citrate; group II, STZ-induced diabetic rats; groups III-V, diabetic rats received glimepiride (0.5 mg/kg; p.o.) or chrysin (40 and 80 mg/kg; p.o.) respectively, for 10 days. Serum samples were extracted to determine nitric oxide (NO), malondialdehyde (MDA), and reduced glutathione (GSH), insulin, CD4+, TLR4, and NF-κβ. Pancreatic tissue samples were extracted to determine glucose transporter 2 (GLUT2). Part of the pancreas was kept in formalin for pathological studies.

Findings/Results:

An elevation in blood glucose, NO, and MDA serum levels and a reduction of pancreatic GLUT2 content, insulin, and GSH serum levels were observed in diabetic rats. STZ injection, also, showed an increase in serum TLR4, NF-κβ, and HSP70 levels and a reduction in serum CD4+ levels with pancreatic cells necrosis. These biochemical and histological changes were reversed in glimepiride and chrysin groups.

Conclusion and implications:

The present study proved that chrysin has a potent anti-diabetic effect through the elevation of insulin and GLUT2 levels, the reduction of oxidative stress, and the inflammatory pathways TLR4/NF-κβ/HSP70 with the regulation of CD4+.
Oxypeucedanin and isoimperatorin extracted from Prangos ferulacea (L.) Lindl protect PC12 pheochromocytoma cells from oxidative stress and apoptosis induced by doxorubicin
Authors: Jalilian Fereshteh , Moieni-Arya Maryam , Hosseinzadeh Leila , Shokoohinia Yalda
Published: November 2021

Background and purpose:

Doxorubicin (DOX) as a chemotherapeutic agent has been widely used in the treatment of various types of cancer. However, DOX exerts a toxic effect on normal tissues such as the brain. Furanocoumarins reduce the risk of cardiovascular and brain diseases because of their antioxidant activities. This study has been designed, for the first time, to evaluate the effect of known furanocoumarins oxypeucedanin and isoimperatorin extracted from Prangos ferulacea (L.) Lindl on oxidative stress and apoptosis induced by DOX toward pheochromocytoma cell line (PC12).

Experimental approach:

NMR and MASS spectrometers were used to characterize the isolated compounds. The protective effects of isolated compounds on DOX-induced cytotoxicity in PC12 cells were examined by MTT assay. PC12 cells were pretreated with oxypeucedanin and isoimperatorin for 2 and 21 h, respectively, subsequently exposure to DOX at IC50 concentration. Then, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), Bax and Bcl2 mRNA expressions, caspase-3 activation, and the generation of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) were measured after 24 h.

Findings/Results:

Pretreatment with oxypeucedanin and isoimperatorin significantly decreased DOX-induced apoptosis through reduction of caspase-3 activity and ROS generation and an increase in MMP. In addition, our finding showed pretreatment with these compounds leads to regulation of Bcl-2.

Conclusion and implications:

Taken together our observation indicated that oxypeucedanin and isoimperatorin have a protective effect against apoptosis induced by DOX in PC12 cells by inhibition of ROS production.
Anti-inflammatory effect of pregabalin on acetic acid-induced colitis in the rats
Authors: Motavallian Azadeh , Zamani Ehsan , Bouzari Saba , Rezaeyan Farzam , Karimian Paridokht , Evazalipour Mehdi
Published: November 2021

Background and purpose:

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic gastrointestinal disease characterized by the inflammation of the intestine. The available medicinal treatments for IBD are not efficacious enough since they exert various adverse effects. Therefore, the search for new therapeutic agents should be continued. The present study aimed to assess the anti-inflammatory effects of pregabalin on acetic acid-induced colitis in rats.

Experimental approach:

Using 2 mL of 3% acetic acid solution, colitis was intra-rectally induced in rats. Animals were randomly divided into 6 groups including the normal group, colitis control group, pregabalin treatment groups (30, 50, and 100 mg/kg; i.p., respectively), and dexamethasone treatment group (1 mg/kg; i.p.). Macroscopic, microscopic, and biochemical (myeloperoxidase, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-6, and interleukin-1 beta) examinations were used to evaluate the efficacy of pregabalin in the inflamed colon.

Findings/Results:

All the applied doses of pregabalin significantly decreased the severity of macroscopic and microscopic colonic damages including ulcer severity, ulcer area, percentage of necrosis, and total colitis index compared to the colitis control group. These results were confirmed by the reduced colonic concentration of tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-6, interleukin-1 beta, and myeloperoxidase activity.

Conclusion and implications:

Results of this study indicated that pregabalin administration has beneficial effects upon the treatment of experimental colitis, which might be partly due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Antiproliferative activity of CD44 siRNA-PEI-PEG nanoparticles in glioblastoma
Authors: Mahinfar Parvaneh , Mokhtarzadeh Ahad , Baradaran Behzad , Siasi Torbati Elham
Published: November 2021

Background and purpose:

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most invasive type of cancer which starts inside the brain. GBM cells were found to have similar properties to glioblastoma cancer stem cells. CD44 can be used as a marker of the cancer stem cells in a subset of glioblastoma tumor cells. Recent studies showed that CD44 is involved in developing cancer cells via the protein kinase B (PKB or AKT) signaling pathway. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the CD44 mRNA silencing effects on the glioblastoma cell cycle via AKT signaling pathway.

Experimental approach:

To determine CD44 expression in the samples of the patients with GBM, we used the analysis of data extracted from TCGA database. qRT-PCR and western blotting were used to evaluate the expression level of genes and proteins. Different cell cycles were evaluated by DAPI staining and flow cytometry.

Findings/Results:

Bioinformatics results showed that CD44 expression level in GBM tumor samples is higher than in normal samples. Effects of poly (ethylene imine)-polyethylene glycol (PEI-PEG)-loaded CD44 siRNA in cell cycle showed that CD44 silencing could inhibit cell cycle in G0-G1 phase by more than 20% compared to the negative control (P < 0.05). Furthermore, PEI-PEG-loaded CD44 siRNA reduces the expression of cyclin D1 and CKD-4. According to our findings, this structure also prevented AKT phosphorylation at Thr-308 and Ser-473.

Conclusion and implications:

Our results suggest that PEI-PEG-loaded CD44 siRNA may attenuate the cell cycle by suppressing AKT signaling pathway.
Determination of plasma and erythrocyte levels of copper, magnesium and zinc by atomic absorption spectrometry in type-2 diabetes mellitus patients with metabolic syndrome
Authors: Omidian Amin , Pourfarzam Morteza , Ghanadian Seyed Mostafa , Zadhoush Fouzieh
Published: November 2021

Background and purpose:

Imbalance in blood levels of trace elements is independent risk factor for metabolic syndrome (MetS), type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and its complications. This study investigated plasma and erythrocyte levels of copper, magnesium, zinc, and their correlations with biochemical components of the MetS in T2DM patients compared to the healthy controls.

Experimental approach:

Forty men recently diagnosed T2DM with MetS without complications and thirty six age-matched healthy controls were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Plasma and erythrocyte levels of selected elements were measured by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectroscopy.

Findings/Results:

The results of the present study showed significantly lower plasma levels of copper, magnesium, and zinc and lower erythrocytes copper in the patients’ group compared to the controls; while erythrocyte levels of magnesium and zinc were not significantly different between the two groups. Significant negative correlations were observed between plasma levels of copper with waist and hip circumferences, waist to hip ratio, systolic and diastolic blood pressures, fasting blood glucose, and glycated hemoglobin levels in all subjects; while erythrocyte copper levels showed significant negative correlation with triglyceride, and erythrocyte zinc was positively correlated with diastolic blood pressure and negatively with triglyceride.

Conclusion and implications:

Alterations of trace elements may have a significant role in the pathogenesis of MetS and T2DM patients. It is suggested that the body status of copper, magnesium, and zinc might be significantly correlated with components of MetS in T2DM patients; and plasma copper levels may be correlated with complications of type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Social Rhythm Disruption, Psychosocial Stressors, and the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Gidwani Chehak , Chaudhary Kritika , Banerjee Debanjan
Published: November 2021

Besides public health, life and living themselves have been constantly adapting to rapid changes, due to the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. New norms such as working from home, global lockdown, travel restrictions, lack of “social touch,” increased digitalization, and rising misinformation have disrupted the “social structure” and led to evolving role transitions in daily living. Added to that are the grief and bereavement due to fatalities of the pandemic. Besides the immense impact on psychosocial health and the “funneling” effect on interpersonal relationships, the rapidly changing routines throughout the last few months due to the outbreak have challenged the biological clock, social rhythm, and sleep-wake structure. These vital parameters form the zeitgebers responsible for tuning the body and physiological responses, disrupting which can lead to biopsychosocial dysfunction, and thus increasing the risk of psychiatric disorders. Most of the psychosocial offshoots of the pandemic have been mediated by “daily schedule disruption” of the society and sleep-wake disturbances. Interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT), originally proposed by Frank, has the capacity to target sleep-wake cycles, alertness, energy, and appetite, with evidence-based efficacy in mood disorders. In this article, we discuss this structural disruption caused by COVID-19 in social and interpersonal domains and the possible role of IPSRT in mitigating these effects by stabilizing the circadian rhythms for better emotional health as well as psychosocial well-being.
A cross-sectional descriptive study of clinical and serological prevalence of syphilis infection in people living with HIV and its effect on CD4+ T cells
Authors: Behara Suresh Kumar , Bindu Satti Surya Amrutha
Published: November 2021

Context:

The natural history of syphilis could be altered in the presence of HIV. It has been documented that syphilis infection increases the risk of HIV transmission by at least 3-fold.

Aims:

The aim of the study was (1) to study clinical presentation of syphilis in HIV individuals, (2) to estimate seroprevalence of syphilis in HIV individuals, and (3) to study the effect of syphilis infection on CD4+ T cells.

Subjects and Methods:

HIV-positive patients attending sexually transmitted infection clinic for a period of 1 year from June 2017 to May 2018 in the age group of 15–70 years were included in the study. A detailed history was taken; genital and dermatological examination was done. All patients were tested with VDRL and treponema pallidum hemagglutination assay (TPHA). Pearson's Chi-square test was used to compare categorical variables and Student's t-test was used to compare continuous variables.

Results:

Out of ninety study population, nine (10%) had clinical manifestations of syphilis. VDRL was positive with significant titers in all cases of syphilis. TPHA was positive in 88.9% of cases with clinical syphilis and 17.3% of cases without clinical manifestations of syphilis. Mean CD4 count was low among patients having syphilis infection compared to study population.

Conclusion:

This study shows high prevalence of syphilis in HIV and highlights the importance of preventing and promptly treating syphilis in people living with HIV, as the active infection is associated with fall in CD4 count, which leads to opportunistic infections.
Can gastric botulinum toxin A injection be used as minimally invasive procedure in the short-term treatment of obesity?
Authors: Özdil Kamil , AK Çağatay , Sayar Süleyman , Aykut Hüseyin , Kılıç Ebru Tarıkçı
Published: November 2021

Background/Aim:

Gastric botulinum toxin A (BTX-A) injection is a type of endoscopic obesity treatment option that delays gastric emptying. However, there is little and contradictory information concerning the treatment efficacy of BTX-A injection. This study evaluated the treatment efficacy of BTX-A injection in the treatment of obesity.

Materials and Methods:

This was an open-label, prospective study of obese individuals with a body mass index >30 kg/m2 admitted to our clinic. The sample consisted of 72 consecutive treatment-naive patients with obesity divided into age–sex-matched three groups: gastric BTX-A injection (study group), calorie-restricted (15–20 Kcal/kg) diet (control) and bariatric surgery (BS) (control) groups. İn the study group, 200 IU BTX-A was injected to the antrum and corpus endoscopically. The study and control groups were compared for their total body weight loss (TBWL) and excess body weight loss (EBWL) at the 6th month.

Results:

Gastric BTX-A injection therapy was applied to 24 patients. The mean age was 39.1 ± 9.1/years. 54.1% of the patients (n = 13) was female. At the 6th month, the mean TBWL and EBWL of patients were; 10% ±4.1 and 37.2% ±13.9 for gastric BTXA injection group, 5% ±2.3 and 20.2% ±9.3 for diet group, 30.7% ±5.3 and 66.9% ±14.4 for BS group. Patients who underwent gastric BTX-A injection lost weight more effectively than patients who were on diet alone, while BS patients lost weight more effectively than those who had gastric BTX-A injection (P < 0.001). In the gastric BXT-A injection group, the first 3-month delta EBWL and TBWL (change of EBWL and TBWL percentages) were found significantly higher than the 3–6th month and 6–12th month (P = 0.001 and P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Gastric BTX-A injection is a minimally invasive and short-term effective method that can be used in the treatment of obesity.
A propensity score-matched analysis of laparoscopic versus open surgical radical resection for gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumor
Authors: Xu ZhaoHui , Qu Hui , Ren YanYing , Gong ZeZhong , Kanani George , Zhang Fan , Shao Shuai , Chen XiaoLiang , Chen Xin
Published: November 2021

Background:

Surgery is the mainstay of treatment for gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GIST). However, the choice of surgical approach for gastric GIST remains controversial.

Aims and Objectives:

To evaluate the short- and long-term efficacies of laparoscopic surgery versus conventional open surgery for gastric GIST.

Materials and Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed 148 patients with gastric GIST at our hospital between January 2013 and January 2020. The patients were categorised into the following two groups based on the surgery performed: The laparoscopic surgery group (LG) and the open surgery group (OG). Differences in the tumour size, surgical procedures and modified National Institutes of Health classification were statistically significant. To balance the intergroup confounders, we performed 1:1 propensity score matching (PSM).

Results:

A total of 104 patients were selected after PSM (52 in each group). We focused on the short- and long- term outcomes of patients. The baseline information was balanced between the two groups after PSM. The LG benefited from the advantages of a minimally invasive surgery (faster gastrointestinal function recovery, shorter time to drainage tube removal, less blood loss and shorter hospitalisation period), however, it also had high treatment costs. Moreover, both laparoscopic and open surgeries resulted in similar intra-operative and post-operative complications rates, overall survival time and disease-free survival time.

Conclusion:

Laparoscopic resection is feasible and oncologically safe for GIST. However, more prospective studies are required to confirm the findings.
Migrated archives
Authors: Garaba Francis
Published: November 2021

In a paper on migrated archives, Nathan Mnjama puts forward several reasons as to why these archives are in the custody of our former colonisers. Infrastructural challenges, the lack of the development of archival services and security issues are some of the reasons highlighted. Consequently, these archives were not collected and preserved within colonies and were thus repatriated to the metropolitan countries for safe storage. The removal of these archives have created gaps in archival holdings and these archives need to be located, retrieved and brought home, so he argues. The author of this response proposes that we need to start afresh and forget about this genre of archives in view of the protracted issues involved and considering the archival service challenges that most archival institutions are facing. We are now talking about de-colonisation/refiguring or Africanisation of our archives because there is over-documentation of the colonial record in our repositories and these records are often biased or incorrect.
The use of metadata systems for the preservation of digital records in cultural heritage institutions
Authors: Masenya Tlou Maggie
Published: November 2021

Many studies concur that most of the world’s heritage resources, including digital records, are highly vulnerable to loss, and some cannot be recovered due to neglect or mismanagement. Strategies are thus needed to ensure long-term preservation and global access to digital records of enduring value. Metadata systems have been regarded as a suitable strategy to support digital preservation processes and prevent digital records loss within cultural heritage institutions. The purpose of this paper was to investigate the adoption of metadata systems in cultural heritage institutions in South Africa. This study utilised literature review to critically examine the use of metadata systems for the preservation of digital records in cultural heritage institutions. Although various preservation systems and strategies are being developed to enable description, discovery and delivery of digital records, the findings revealed that South African cultural heritage institutions’ level of metadata system adoption is low. This is due to lack of awareness about metadata schemas and standards, lack of technical expertise, inadequate funding and lack of technological infrastructure. Several recommendations are made to enhance preservation of digital records, including increasing awareness and the implementation of metadata systems, schemas and policies.
“Emailisation” of the public sector: tracing the prevalence of use of email in Zimbabwe’s central government
Authors: Mutsagondo Samson , Ngulube Patrick
Published: November 2021

Although paper is still the dominant records format in Zimbabwe, there has been a remarkable rise in use of electronic records, of which electronic mail (email) is a subset. Email dawned in the 1970s but it has increasingly gained much traction in official information and communication in Zimbabwe’s central government in the current decade. The use of email has become a norm or rather a culture, a development which the authors of this article metaphorically coin “emailisation”. This paper traces the rise in official use of email in Zimbabwe’s central government in order to establish changing trends in diffusion of innovations in information and communication. Three objectives are addressed, which are tracing how often email is used in official communication, establishing types of records normally generated and sent using email, and determining the volume of email sent and received in Zimbabwe’s central government per day. This mixed methods research made use of a convergent research design and involved 240 respondents and 10 interviewees. The study calls for responsible and controlled use of email to bring the technology, both official and authentic, in line with the ethos of professional records and information management.
Nicaragua: power crisis and elections in 2021
Authors: Morozov D. V.
Published: November 2021

The article is devoted to the current internal political situation in Nicaragua. The author analyzes the reasons for the acute socio-political crisis that arose in April 2018, presenting a detailed analysis of a historical background of these events. The author notes that a regime of personal power of President Ortega has been established in the country, relying on bureaucracy and power structures, since it is them playing a key role in preserving Ortega as the country’s President. The paper assesses the alignment of political forces and the general political situation in the opposition camp. The author analyzes the reasons for a number of existing contradictions that plague the opposition bloc of Nicaragua. An analysis of political potential and electoral possibilities of the opposition forces is given. The author predicts a possible scenario for the development of events within the framework of internal political situation in connection with the upcoming elections to be held in November 2021. The author comes to conclusion that the regime of Ortega is weakening and losing its positions, but still retains a margin of safety, which allows him to remain in power. As one of the scenarios for the development of events, the author predicts the possibility of a ‘compromise figure’ coming to power, which, however, does not imply a change in the real balance of power and dominant political figures in state politics.
BULUT BİLİŞİMDE TEMEL KONULAR
Authors: ÇELİK Kamil
Published: November 2021

Bulut Bilişim internet ve intranet üzerinden sunulan döngüsel ve sistematik olarak çalışmakta olan servis tabanlı bir teknolojidir. Gelişen teknolojiyle birlikte bulut bilişim kurumların ve bireylerin istedikleri yerden, istedikleri zaman, hızlı, kolay ve düşük maliyetle bilgiye ulaşmasını mümkün kılmaktadır. Bu yapının kullanım alanlarına yönelik faklı türleri ve hizmet modelleri bulunmaktadır. Bulut bilişimin ana yapısını sanallaştırma oluşturmaktadır. Donanımların ve yazılımların sanallaştırılmasıyla birçok platform üzerinde çalışan servislerin kullanıcılara ulaştırılmasını sağlamaktadır. Bu çalışmada Bulut Bilişimin tanımı, zaman içerisindeki gelişimi, türleri, hizmet modelleri ve servis sağlayıcıları gibi Bulut Bilişim alanında temel bilgiler araştırılmıştır. Böylece Bulut Bilişim kullanımının yaygınlaşması ve tanınırlığının artması hedeflenmiştir.
HIGH RESOLUTION TRANSMISSION ELECTRON MICROSCOPY STUDY OF CRYSTALLOGRAPHY AND MORPHOLOGY OF TiC PRECIPITATES IN ARGON IRRADIATED 18Cr10NiTi STEEL
Authors: Kalchenko A.S. , Karpov S.A. , Tolstolutskaya G.D.
Published: November 2021

This work encompasses identification of the crystal structure and analysis of the TiC precipitates in 18Cr-10Ni-Ti austenitic stainless steel under Ar-ions irradiation. High resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) are used. Orientation relationship of TiC particles in surrounding matrix are indicated by HRTEM and diffraction patterns. The size of the precipitates is found to be critical: the coherency of TiC is kept at the interfaces when the precipitate is in the stage of nucleation, whereas the growth of precipitate up to 10 nm can lead to the loss of coherency in the austenitic steel. The findings suggest that the incoherent precipitate-matrix interface is an important point defect sink and contributes to inert gas bubble formation at elevated irradiation temperatures.
EKOLOGICAL FNDO-AGROCHEMICAL MONITORING OF SOILS OF MUKACHEVO DISTRICT TRANSCARPATHIA REGION
Authors: BANDUROVICH Y. , FANDALІUK A.V. , ROMANKO V.O.
Published: November 2021

According to the results of the research, an agrochemical assessment of the soils of agricultural lands of Mukachevo district was carried out. It is proved that more than half of the area in Mukachevo district (63.4%) belongs to acid soils. It was found that the weighted average humus index is 2.48%, which corresponds to the average level. The weighted average indicators of the content of mobile compounds of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium are determined. According to the agrochemical condition of agricultural lands of Mukachevo district for the period from 2008 to 2018, it was found that the level of soil fertility has changed somewhat in the direction of improvement. This is especially true of the content of mobile compounds of phosphorus and potassium. Keywords: agrochemical survey of soils, acidity, humus content, mobile compounds of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium.
STUDYING THE EFFICIENCY OF MINERAL FERTILIZERS THAT ARE UNBALANCED IN NUTRITION ELEMENTS WHEN INTRODUCED TO MAIZE
Authors: MATIEHA O.O. , BALIAN I.V. , POSTOYENKO L.P.
Published: November 2021

The article sheds light on the efficiency of mineral fertilizers that are unbalanced in phosphorus to grow maize for grain. It has been determined that by introducing the full mineral fertilizer in the proportion N:P:K – 1:0.66:1 and 1:0.50:0.75 with 30 tons/hectare of manure the highest grain productivity of maize is achieved – 93.0-95.0 metric centner/hectare. Keywords Harvest, fertilizers, dose, grain, correlation of nutrition elements
Determination of Postmortem Interval by Estimating CSF Proteins Concentration after Death, by Dye Binding Method at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Lahore, Pakistan
Authors: Farooq Arooj , Abbas Aatiqa , Rasheed Arif
Published: November 2021

Introduction: Postmortem interval (PMI) is the time lapse between death of a person and its postmortem examination i.e. autopsy. Estimating the postmortem interval (PMI) is an imperative perspective of forensic medicine.

Aims & Objectives: This study was conducted to see the impact of CSF protein estimation on determination of PMI.

Place and duration of study: It was an observational correlational study, conducted for one year at Department of Forensic Medicine, King Edward Medical University Lahore.

Material & Methods: A total of 119 cadavers were included in this study. Chemicals used were disodium molybdate, pyrogallol, succinic acid. The minimum detectable concentration of total proteins in CSF with dye binding method using pyrogallol red was determined as 0.022g/l. Two ml of CSF was taken from each cadaver. Clear, colorless samples were taken in test tubes. Turbid and blood contained samples were not included in study. Protein concentration was determined using photospectrometry. Statistical analysis was done by SPSS-23. Quantitative variables like age were presented as mean ± SD. Qualitative variables like gender were presented as frequency and percentages. For comparison between PMI and CSF proteins concentration correlation was applied.

Results: Males accounted for majority of our subjects. The mean value of proteins in CSF was 219.91± 113.121 mg/dl. The most common PMI was 11 to 20 hours. CSF proteins increased gradually over 72 hours after death. The results of present study showed a significant positive correlation between time of death and CSF proteins concentration after death.

Conclusion: It is observed that as a whole protein concentration increased with increasing time of death. Hence, CSF protein concentration can be used in estimating time since death.
Effect of Honey on Orthodontic Tooth Movement and Osteoclastic Activity in Psychologically Stressed Animals
Authors: Abid Reem , Ilyas Muhammad Sharjeel , Rubi Ghazala , Ahsan Amna , Shakeel Sadia , Ahmed Arfa
Published: November 2021

Introduction: Orthodontics is a clinical specialty in dentistry related to the correction of dentofacial deformities. Psychological stress factors delay Orthodontic tooth movement (OTM). Honey can be considered a useful and harmless natural product to reduce stress levels, hence improves the efficacy of OTM.

Aims & Objectives: To compare the differences in the rate of tooth movement and osteoclastic activity between control, psychologically stressed and honey treated psychologically stressed groups after 1 week of orthodontic force application in an animal model.

Place and duration of study: This experimental study was conducted at the animal research laboratory and Histopathology Department of Post Graduate Medical Institute (PGMI), Lahore, Pakistan, from April 2019 to June 2020.

Material & Methods: Thirty-six Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into A, B and C groups. Psychological Stress was induced in group A (PS group) while Honey was given orally as a therapeutic agent along with induction of psychological stress in group B (PSH group), and group C was the Control Group. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 24 software. The quantitative variables were the orthodontic tooth movement, the osteoclast count, and the expression of RANKL. One-way ANOVA was applied to calculate the mean difference and Post hoc Tukey test applied for multiple comparisons among the groups. A p-value ? 0.05 was considered statistically significant in all 3 groups.

Results: There was a significant difference (p-value <0.05) between control and experimental groups in the orthodontic tooth movement and levels of RANKL, however, there was no significant difference between PS and PSH groups.

Conclusion: Psychological stress delays orthodontic tooth movement by causing a reduction in its rate and osteoclastic activity and honey has no significant correlation with lowering stress levels, hence does not improve orthodontic tooth movement efficiency.
Vaccine Hesitancy in Parents: Role of Social Networks, Social Media, and Parental Autonomy
Authors: Shneyderman Yuliya , Vogelzang Jody , Kanekar Amar
Published: November 2021

Introduction. Vaccine hesitancy in parents is a composite of multiple dimensions such as confidence, complacency, and convenience. A large proportion of parents can be deemed vaccine hesitant, meaning that their vaccine behaviors can range from delaying vaccines, skipping select vaccines, to refusal of all vaccinations. Furthermore, parental vaccine uptake rates and patterns can reflect their decisions based on the balance of parental autonomy versus protecting population health. The current manuscript uses Social Network Theory to explain some of the external influences on parental autonomy. Social networks, both private and public, play a role in vaccine decision making through providing information and support for parents in their choices. This influence, in turn, is mediated by parents’ health literacy and local vaccination policy. Discussion. Social media is an important type of public network that has an outsized influence on vaccine hesitancy. The rhetoric used on anti-vaccine websites often denigrates scientific evidence while at the same time endorsing poor-quality evidence that supports the anti-vaccine point of view. The websites continually propose new hypotheses of how vaccines can cause harm when studies refute their previous assertions, censor critics, and attack people with opposing viewpoints. The contentious nature of vaccine hesitancy based on beliefs, opinions, and attitudes needs a solution much deeper than simply providing factual knowledge or pointing people to reliable websites. Recommendations. Public health practitioners and researchers should try segmenting audiences, targeting private and public social networks, and then testing which persuasive strategies towards vaccinations appeal to different community groups.
A case en pointe
Authors: Ng A , Cemel Y , Donaldson DQ , Bothra V
Published: November 2021

Septic arthritis of the first metatarsal-phalangeal joint (MTPJ) is rare. Such a case is reported in a 14-year-old female ballerina who presented with a one-week history of big toe pain and being systematically unwell. Radioisotope bone scan showed increased activity localised to the first MTPJ. The patient was treated with urgent incision and drainage and intravenous antibiotics. She was able to return to full training eight weeks later. This case highlights the difficulty in diagnosis and management.
Growth of Newly Established Tilia platyphyllos ‘Rubra’ Roadside Trees in Response to Weed Control and Pruning
Authors: Kristoffersen Palle , Bühler Oliver , Larsen Søren , Randrup Thomas
Published: November 2021

This tree establishment study investigates the effect of weed control and pruning treatments on stem and branch diameter increment of newly planted broad-leaved lime (Tilia platyphyllos ‘Rubra’) roadside trees. Weed control significantly increased stem circumference four years after establishment by 3.6 cm (1.4 in) from 24.5 cm (9.7 in, untreated control) to 28.1 cm (11.1 in). In terms of Danish nursery sales prices, this corresponds to an increase of tree cash value of 1201 DKK (160.90 €, 235.40 US$) per tree. Calculating with 400 DKK (53.60 €, 78.40 US$) as cost for contract weeding per hour, this corresponds to 0.75 hours per tree per year for a period of four years. In addition to weed control treatments, trees were pruned at establishment, two years after establishment, or at both times. None of the pruning treatments affected stem diameter growth, but branch diameter and branch:stem diameter ratio were significantly reduced by all pruning treatments. Branch diameter ranged from 40.1 mm (1.6 in) on unpruned trees to 34.6 mm (1.4 in on trees pruned both times. Branch:stem diameter ratio ranged from 0.54 on unpruned trees to 0.49 on trees pruned both times. In consequence, weed control is recommended as a strong management practice. Mild pruning is also considered advisable, if structural crown problems can be avoided at an early stage, and if the tree has to be prepared for later pruning operations.
Effect of Systemic Inducing Resistance and Biostimulant Materials on Apple Scab Using a Detached Leaf Bioassay
Authors: Percival Glynn
Published: November 2021

A detached leaf bioassay was used to evaluate several systemic inducing resistance agents, a range of biostimulant products and a conventional triazole fungicide (myclobutanil) on apple scab (Venturia inaequalis) development under laboratory conditions. None of the biostimulant products (seaweed extract, betaine, molasses, humic acid, yucca extract, and plant hormone/vitamin complex) evaluated in this study inhibited germination of apple scab conidia, subsequent formation of appressoria or reduced leaf scab severity compared to water treated controls. All SIR agents used in this investigation (potassium phosphonate, potassium phosphite, harpin protein, salicylic acid, salicylic acid derivative) inhibited germination of apple scab conidia, subsequent formation of appressoria and reduced leaf scab severity. The synthetic fungicide myclobutanil resulted in the greatest levels of germination inhibition, reduced appressorium development and leaf scab severity. Results suggest application of an appropriate SIR product may provide a useful addition to existing methods of apple scab management; however, use of biostimulants as scab protectant compounds appears limited.
Evaluation of Therapeutic Treatments to Manage Oak Bacterial Leaf Scorch
Authors: Hartman John , Dixon Ed , Bernick Shawn
Published: November 2021

Bacterial leaf scorch is a very serious tree disease, especially for oaks in Kentucky, U.S. landscapes. From 2003 to 2007, several potentially therapeutic disease management treatments were tried on diseased pin oaks (Quercus palustris) growing in golf course, street tree, and horse farm environments. Treatments included root flare soil drenches of paclobutrazol, adjuvant-assisted basal trunk applications of anti-microbial compounds, and springtime root flare injections of oxytetracycline. Paclobutrazol drenches caused expected growth regulator effects but did not consistently reduce bacterial leaf scorch of golf course and street trees. Antibiotics applied directly to trunks of infected trees with an adjuvant had no effect on levels of bacterial leaf scorch. Compared to untreated trees, springtime root flare injections of oxytetracycline reduced scorch levels and delayed by about two weeks, the time of appearance of late summer scorch symptoms. Injections done three weeks after full expansion of first leaves provided better results than injections done earlier or later in the spring. Therapeutic treatments do not provide a cure for trees infected with bacterial leaf scorch, but may prolong tree life.
The Effect of Broadcast Nitrogen Fertilization Rates and Placement on the Growth of Green Ash Trees
Authors: Watson Gary
Published: November 2021

Tree responses to slow-release nitrogen fertilization treatments were limited, but application of fertilizer to the inner half of the root zone improved caliper growth and relative chlorophyll content. Concentrating nitrogen fertilizer applications closer to the base of the tree may be able to take advantage of naturally higher root density, in addition to any further root stimulation resulting from the applied fertilizer treatment. The study site was moderately fertile, as are many urban landscapes where lawn and planting beds surrounding trees are fertilized. The pre-existing level of fertility may have contributed to the limited growth response to the nitrogen applications.
A Method for Simulation of Upward Root Growth Pressure in Compacted Sand
Authors: Grabosky Jason , Gucunski Nenad
Published: November 2021

In order to model the impacts of tree root growth under pavement as a layered design, the behavior of the components need to be defined or assumed. Since the behavior of materials and the design of pavement sections work on the presumption of loading from the pavement surface downward, it is reasonable to check engineering behavior assumptions with a testing method for controlled loading upward from a growing perennial root. A root simulation was developed to inflate with water to known input pressure. Sand displacement in response to increasing input pressure was tracked over several sand density-moisture level pairings. Load cells tracked the translation of sand displacement to load at a simulated pavement surface to develop data plots of a line-load spreading wider with increasing distance between root and pavement. The results from the laboratory experiments were compared to the results from numerical simulations using finite elements to develop better understanding of the mechanisms of load generation due to the root growth. Sand was modeled as a Mohr-Coulomb type material for that purpose. The numerical results are qualitatively in agreement with the experimental results.
Research Note: Observed Symmetry and Force of Plantanus × acerifolia (Ait.) Willd. Roots Occurring Between Foam Layers Under Pavement
Authors: Grabosky Jason , Smiley E. Thomas , Dahle Gregory
Published: November 2021

Root damage to infrastructure is common in the urban environment. Many problems could be avoided if more were known about tree root growth patterns and the forces involved. This study looks at the growth symmetry and forces from four roots to aid in the development of a computer model. Two primary roots, each from two trees, that were growing between two foam layers under pavement for 10 years were harvested and sectioned to measure radial growth symmetry to assist in the development of a computer simulation of root growth under pavement. The indentations in the foam created by the root growth were replicated using a universal loading press to estimate the radial growth pressure. Root growth was offset upward when close to the tree trunk, but shifted to a downward offset within 1 m from the trunk. Load penetration testing of the foam suggested a minimal load of 0.35–0.40 MPa to replicate the foam deformation.
A Syllabus-based Review of Collegiate Arboriculture Course Content in the United States
Authors: Wiseman P. Eric , Hoffman Joseph , Day Susan , Clements Terry
Published: November 2021

The professional skills and expertise demanded of practicing arborists are greater than at any time in the past, and many employers and educators believe that higher education plays a role in educating future professionals in this field. Although recent surveys have identified major instructional topics that are critically important for future arborists, no assessment of whether these topics are being taught in college and university programs is available. The following paper is a syllabus-level assessment of 68 arboriculture courses being taught at U.S. institutions of higher education. The most common instructional topics observed in syllabi of arboriculture courses at both two- and four-year institutions were pruning (85%), disorders (81%), physiology/biology (79%), risks/hazards (79%), and soils/nutrition (75%). Tree planting and tree selection, topics identified by educators and public sector employers in previous studies as among the most important instructional areas, were found only in 74% and 62% of course syllabi, respectively. Safety was mentioned in only 53% of syllabi. Syllabus content was similar at two-year and four-year institutions, although tree identification and arborist certification were mentioned more frequently in two-year institution syllabi. Trends in arboriculture education and implications for employers and professionals are discussed.