bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dual-axis confocal configuration for depth sensitive fluorescence spectroscopy
Authors: Lin Yongping , Chang Tse-Shao , Chen Jing , Li Gaoming
Published: June 2021

The dual-axis confocal (DAC) configuration provides a high axial resolution, long working distance (WD), and large dynamic range. These properties can reveal depth-resolved fluorescence spectra. We present a depth sensitive fluorescence spectroscopy based on the DAC configuration. The system enables high axial resolution of 3.23 µm and a long WD of 3.73 mm compared to that of 4.68 µm and 2.1 mm for comparable single-axis confocal configurations, respectively. Besides, a DAC configuration also offers a superior dynamic range and rejection of out-of-focus scattered light based on the principle of Huygens–Fresnel integrals. Additionally, to locate the target layer, the collection path of the DAC configuration will be used as the other illumination path, forming a dual-axis illumination configuration. These beam paths are used to locate the target layer using a white light imaging system with a commercial low numerical aperture objective. A multi-layer fluorescence phantom of Barrett’s esophagus containing fluorescein isothiocyanate and Alexa Fluor 514 was used to verify the principle of depth-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy. The results show that the DAC configuration can collect fluorescence spectra from microscopic regions with high axial resolution.
Health and economic burden estimates of snakebite management upon health facilities in three regions of southern Burkina Faso
Authors: Ahmed Sayem , Koudou Guibehi B. , Bagot Maïwenn , Drabo François , Bougma Windtaré R. , Pulford Caisey , Bockarie Moses , Harrison Robert A.
Published: June 2021

Background

Snakebite has become better recognized as a significant cause of death and disability in Sub-Saharan Africa, but the health economic consequences to victims and health infrastructures serving them remain poorly understood. This information gap is important as it provides an evidence-base guiding national and international health policy decision making on the most cost-effective interventions to better manage snakebite. Here, we assessed hospital-based data to estimate the health economic burden of snakebite in three regions of Burkina Faso (Centre-Ouest, Hauts Bassins and Sud-Ouest).

Methodology

Primary data of snakebite victims admitted to regional and district health facilities (eg, number of admissions, mortality, hospital bed days occupied) was collected in three regions over 17 months in 2013/14. The health burden of snakebite was assessed using Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) calculations based upon hospitalisation, mortality and disability data from admitted patients amongst other inputs from secondary sources (eg, populations, life-expectancy and age-weighting constants). An activity-based costing approach to determine the direct cost of snake envenoming included unit costs of clinical staff wages, antivenom, supportive care and equipment extracted from context-relevant literature.

Findings

The 10,165 snakebite victims admitted to hospital occupied 28,164 hospital bed days over 17 months. The annual rate of hospitalisation and mortality of admitted snakebite victims was 173 and 1.39/100,000 population, respectively. The estimated annual (i) DALYs lost was 2,153 (0.52/1,000) and (ii) cost to hospitals was USD 506,413 (USD 49/hospitalisation) in these three regions of Burkina Faso. These costs appeared to be influenced by the number of patients receiving antivenom (10.90% in total) in each area (highest in Sud-Ouest) and the type of health facility.

Conclusion

The economic burden of snake envenoming is primarily shouldered by the rural health centres closest to snakebite victims–facilities that are typically least well equipped or resourced to manage this burden. Our study highlights the need for more research in other regions/countries to demonstrate the burden of snakebite and the socioeconomic benefits of its management. This evidence can guide the most cost-effective intervention from government and development partners to meet the snakebite-management needs of rural communities and their health centres.
Short report: The potential of PCR on skin flakes from bed linens for diagnosis of scabies in an outbreak
Authors: Tjon-Kon-Fat Raïssa , Peckeu Laurène , Hahné Susan , de Coster Eric , Tas Wendy , Wintermans Bas , Bergmans Anneke , Petrignani Mariska , Fanoy Ewout
Published: June 2021

Background

Scabies outbreaks are common in nursing homes in the Netherlands. In October 2018, a local public health service (PHS) in The Hague was notified of a new scabies outbreak in a nursing home in that region. The PHS initiated an outbreak investigation. Cases were defined as: possible (reported symptoms), probable (scabies-like lesions) and confirmed (PCR or microscopy in skin flakes). Head-to-toe examinations were performed of all residents and those staff members who reported symptoms suggestive of scabies. Skin scrapings of lesions were tested either with microscopy or by PCR. Experimentally for case finding, skin flakes from bed linens of residents who reported symptoms of itchiness but did not have primary lesions were sent for PCR testing.

Principal findings

All residents (41) and 37/44 staff were included in this outbreak investigation. We identified 30 possible, four probable and six confirmed cases. The overall attack rate for probable/confirmed cases was 10/78 (13%). Of the six confirmed cases, two were confirmed by PCR, three by microscopy, and one showed positive findings with both techniques. Two out of the three bed-linen specimens were PCR-positive.

Conclusions

In this outbreak of scabies in a nursing home, PCR was used on skin flakes from bed linens, which led to the detection of two additional cases. This illustrates the potential of PCR during the investigation of scabies outbreaks.
Prevalence and correlates of Helicobacter pylori infection among under-five children, adolescent and non-pregnant women in Nepal: Further analysis of Nepal national micronutrient status survey 2016
Authors: Mehata Suresh , Parajuli Kedar Raj , Pant Narayan Dutt , Rayamajhee Binod , Yadav Uday Narayan , Mehta Ranju Kumari , Jha Priya , Mehta Neha , Dhimal Meghnath , Singh Dipendra Raman
Published: June 2021

Most of theHelicobacter pyloriinfections occur in developing countries. The risk factors forH.pyloriinfections are poverty, overcrowding, and unhygienic conditions, which are common problems in under-privileged countries such as Nepal. Despite having a high risk ofH.pyloriinfections, no national level study has been conducted to assess prevalence and correlates ofH.pyloriinfection in Nepal. Therefore, we hypothesized that micronutrients such as iron, vitamin B12 deficiency, socio-economic status, and nutritional status correlate with the prevalence ofH.pyloriinfection in Nepal.

We studied prevalence and correlates ofH.pyloriinfection among under-five children, adolescents aged 10–19 years and married non-pregnant women aged 20–49 years using data from the Nepal National Micronutrient Status Survey 2016 (NNMSS-2016).H. pyloriinfection was examined in stool of 6–59 months old children and 20–49 years old non-pregnant women whereas the rapid diagnostic kit using blood sample was used among adolescent boys and girls.

Prevalence ofH.pyloriinfection was 18.2% among 6–59 months old children, 14% among adolescent boys and 16% among adolescent girls aged 10–19 years; and 40% among 20–49 years non-pregnant women. Poor socioeconomic status, crowding, and unhygienic condition were found to be positively associated with higher incidence ofH.pyloriinfections. No significant correlation was observed between nutritional and micronutrients status (iron or risk of folate deficiency) withH.pyloriinfection.

Findings from this study suggest that poverty-associated markers are primary contributors ofH.pyloriinfections in Nepalese communities. To control acquisition and persistence ofH.pyloriinfection in Nepal, we suggest improved management of safe drinking water and implementation of sanitation and hygiene programs, with a focus on those of lower socioeconomic status.
Melioidosis–a disease of socioeconomic disadvantage
Authors: Hanson Josh , Smith Simon , Stewart James , Horne Peter , Ramsamy Nicole
Published: June 2021

Background

There is growing recognition of the contribution of the social determinants of health to the burden of many infectious diseases. However, the relationship between socioeconomic status and the incidence and outcome of melioidosis is incompletely defined.

Methods

All residents of Far North Queensland, tropical Australia with culture-proven melioidosis between January 1998 and December 2020 were eligible for the study. Their demographics, comorbidities and socioeconomic status were correlated with their clinical course. Socioeconomic status was determined using the Socio-Economic Indexes for Areas (SEIFA) Index of Relative Socio-economic Disadvantage score, a measure of socioeconomic disadvantage developed by the Australian Bureau of Statistics. Socioeconomic disadvantage was defined as residence in a region with a SEIFA score in the lowest decile in Australia.

Results

321 eligible individuals were diagnosed with melioidosis during the study period, 174 (54.2%) identified as Indigenous Australians; 223/321 (69.5%) were bacteraemic, 85/321 (26.5%) required Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admission and 37/321 (11.5%) died. 156/321 (48.6%) were socioeconomically disadvantaged, compared with 56603/269002 (21.0%) of the local general population (p<0.001). Socioeconomically disadvantaged patients were younger, more likely to be female, Indigenous, diabetic or have renal disease. They were also more likely to die prior to hospital discharge (26/156 (16.7%) versus 11/165 (6.7%), p = 0.002) and to die at a younger age (median (IQR) age: 50 (38–68) versus 65 (59–81) years, p = 0.02). In multivariate analysis that included age, Indigenous status, the presence of bacteraemia, ICU admission and the year of hospitalisation, only socioeconomic disadvantage (odds ratio (OR) (95% confidence interval (CI)): 2.49 (1.16–5.35), p = 0.02) and ICU admission (OR (95% CI): 4.79 (2.33–9.86), p<0.001) were independently associated with death.

Conclusion

Melioidosis is disease of socioeconomic disadvantage. A more holistic approach to the delivery of healthcare which addresses the social determinants of health is necessary to reduce the burden of this life-threatening disease.
Association of fluid balance with mortality in sepsis is modified by admission hemoglobin levels: A large database study
Authors: Tan Sandra M. Y. , Zhang Yuan , Chen Ying , See Kay Choong , Feng Mengling
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Sepsis involves a dysregulated inflammatory response to infection that leads to organ dysfunction. Early fluid resuscitation has been advocated by the Surviving Sepsis Campaign guidelines. However, recent studies have shown that a positive fluid balance is associated with increased mortality in septic patients. We investigated if haemoglobin levels on admission to the intensive care unit (ICU) could modify the association of fluid balance with mortality in patients with sepsis. We hypothesized that with increasing fluid balance, patients with moderate anemia (hemoglobin 7-10g/dL) would have poorer outcomes compared to those without moderate anemia (hemoglobin >10g/dL).

Materials and methods

This retrospective study utilized the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care-III (MIMIC-III) database. Patients with sepsis, as identified by the International Classification of Diseases, 9th, Clinical Modification codes, were studied. Patients were stratified into those with and without moderate anemia at ICU admission. We investigated the influence of fluid balance measured within 24 hours of ICU admission on 28-day mortality for both patient groups using multivariable logistic regression models. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were conducted.

Results

8,132 patients (median age 68.6 years, interquartile range 55.1–79.8 years; 52.8% female) were included. Increasing fluid balance (in L) was associated with a significantly decreased risk of 28-day mortality in patients without moderate anemia (OR 0.91, 95%CI 0.84–0.97, p = 0.005, at 6-hour). Conversely, increasing fluid balance was associated with a significantly increased risk of 28-day mortality in patients with moderate anemia (OR 1.05, 95% CI 1.01–1.1, p = 0.022, at 24-hour). Interaction analyses showed that mortality was highest when haemoglobin decreased in patients with moderate anemia who had the most positive fluid balance. Multiple subgroups and sensitivity analyses yielded consistent results.

Conclusions

In septic patients admitted to ICU, admission hemoglobin levels modified the association between fluid balance and mortality and are an important consideration for future fluid therapy trials.
Systematic multiscale models to predict the compressive strength of fly ash-based geopolymer concrete at various mixture proportions and curing regimes
Authors: Ahmed Hemn Unis , Mohammed Ahmed Salih , Mohammed Azad A. , Faraj Rabar H.
Published: June 2021

Geopolymer concrete is an inorganic concrete that uses industrial or agro by-product ashes as the main binder instead of ordinary Portland cement; this leads to the geopolymer concrete being an eco-efficient and environmentally friendly construction material. A variety of ashes used as the binder in geopolymer concrete such as fly ash, ground granulated blast furnace slag, rice husk ash, metakaolin ash, and Palm oil fuel ash, fly ash was commonly consumed to prepare geopolymer concrete composites. The most important mechanical property for all types of concrete composites, including geopolymer concrete, is the compressive strength. However, in the structural design and construction field, the compressive strength of the concrete at 28 days is essential. Therefore, achieving an authoritative model for predicting the compressive strength of geopolymer concrete is necessary regarding saving time, energy, and cost-effectiveness. It gives guidance regarding scheduling the construction process and removal of formworks. In this study, Linear (LR), Non-Linear (NLR), and Multi-logistic (MLR) regression models were used to develop the predictive models for estimating the compressive strength of fly ash-based geopolymer concrete (FA-GPC). In this regard, a comprehensive dataset consists of 510 samples were collected in several academic research studies and analyzed to develop the models. In the modeling process, for the first time, twelve effective variable parameters on the compressive strength of the FA-GPC, including SiO2/Al2O3(Si/Al) of fly ash binder, alkaline liquid to binder ratio (l/b), fly ash (FA) content, fine aggregate (F) content, coarse aggregate (C) content, sodium hydroxide (SH)content, sodium silicate (SS) content, (SS/SH), molarity (M), curing temperature (T), curing duration inside ovens (CD) and specimen ages (A) were considered as the modeling input parameters. Various statistical assessments such as Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE), Mean Absolute Error (MAE), Scatter Index (SI), OBJ value, and the Coefficient of determination (R2) were used to evaluate the efficiency of the developed models. The results indicated that the NLR model performed better for predicting the compressive strength of FA-GPC mixtures compared to the other models. Moreover, the sensitivity analysis demonstrated that the curing temperature, alkaline liquid to binder ratio, and sodium silicate content are the most affecting parameter for estimating the compressive strength of the FA-GPC.
Magnitude, components and predictors of metabolic syndrome in Northern Ethiopia: Evidences from regional NCDs STEPS survey, 2016
Authors: Ajemu Kiros Fenta , Desta Abraham Aregay , Berhe Asfawosen Aregay , Woldegebriel Ataklti Gebretsadik , Bezabih Nega Mamo , Negash Degnesh , Wuneh Alem Desta , Woldearegay Tewolde Wubayehu
Published: June 2021

Background

Individuals with metabolic syndrome are five times more susceptible to chronic diseases. Assessment of its magnitude, components, and risk factors is essentials to deploy visible interventions needed to avoid further complications. The study aimed to assess magnitude, components, and predictors of metabolic syndrome in Tigray region northern Ethiopia, 2016.

Methods

Data were reviewed from Tigray region NCDs STEPs survey data base between May to June 2016. A total of 1476 adults aged 18–64 years were enrolled for the study. Multi-variable regression analysis was performed to estimate the net effect of size to risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome. Statistical significance was declared at p-value of ≤0.05 at 95% confidence interval (CI) for an adjusted odds ratio (AOR).

Results

The study revealed that unadjusted and adjusted prevalence rate of Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) were (CPR = 33.79%; 95%CI: 31.29%–36.36%) and (APR = 34.2%; 95% CI: 30.31%–38.06%) respectively. The most prevalent MetS component was low HDL concentration (CPR = 70.91%; 95%CI: 68.47%–73.27%) and (APR = 70.61; 95%CI; 67.17–74.05). While; high fasting blood glucose (CPR = 20.01% (95%CI: 18.03–22.12) and (APR = 21.72; 95%CI; 18.41–25.03) was the least ones. Eating vegetables four days a week, (AOR = 3.69, 95%CI; 1.33–10.22), a salt sauce added in the food some times (AOR = 5.06, 95%CI; 2.07–12.34), overweight (AOR = 24.28, 95%CI; 10.08–58.47] and obesity (AOR = 38.81; 12.20–111.04) had strong association with MetS.

Conclusion

The magnitude of metabolic syndrome was found to be close to the national estimate. Community awareness on life style modification based on identified MetS components and risk factors is needed to avoid further complications.
An unlikely stepping stone? Exploring how platform work shapes newcomer migrant integration
Authors: Lam Laura , Triandafyllidou Anna
Published: June 2021

The rise of digital labour platform work has drawn researchers to study how migrants are impacted by greater technology dependence in the workforce, and whether platform work might accelerate migrants’ entry into precarious, low-income, contingent work. Emerging data in Canada indicate that that the proportion of gig workers is considerably higher amongst immigrants, especially recent immigrants compared to Canadian-born populations; yet, the demographics and typologies of migrants that choose to undertake platform work have been understudied. This study looks at platform work as part of the wider process of labour market integration of newly arrived migrants in Canada. Acknowledging that labour market integration is a non-linear process that involves several stop-and-go phases, we look at platform work as part of this process and question whether it is a ‘stepping-stone’ or a trap into volatile, precarious work. The study is qualitative and exploratory, based on 24 semi-structured interviews with recent migrants in Canada who have engaged in platform work. Our findings suggest that platform work can serve as a useful first step to gain footing in a new country, as platforms have low barriers of entry, require little social or material capital, and offer flexible forms of employment that can be combined either with studying or looking for another position or with working in a different full-time job. It gives migrants a subjective feeling of control over their lives and security albeit when we delve deeper, they also realize it can be a dead end. The article concludes with some critical reflections on how platform work in the greater gig economy can shape migrant integration in the host country labour market.
El calor de las flores: plantas termogénicas y sus polinizadores
Authors: Ku Ruiz Carlos , Sosenski Paula
Published: June 2021

La termogénesis es la capacidad de algunos organismos de generar calor por procesos metabólicos. Un escaso número de familias de angiospermas y gimnospermas presentan flores o estróbilos termogénicos, caracterizados por elevar sus temperaturas por encima a la del ambiente. Aunque existen distintas interpretaciones adaptativas sobre el origen y la evolución de la termogénesis, una de las más aceptadas es que esta evolucionó como una estrategia de las plantas para asegurar la polinización mediada por insectos polinizadores que, atraídos por los aromas (los cuales son potenciados por el calor emitido), visitan las flores o los estróbilos, y en algunos casos reciben recompensas en forma de calor. A pesar de la importancia ecológica de las especies termogénicas, diversas actividades humanas amenazan las poblaciones de varias especies, comprometiendo el mantenimiento de esta especializada interacción planta-polinizador.
Knowledge, attitude and practices of biomedicine students on the papanicolaou exam
Authors: Almeida Camila Aparecida Pinheiro Landim , Oliveira Amanda Dias , Araújo Lorena Mayra Alves , Gomes Júnior Antonio Luiz , Carvalho Herica Emilia Félix de , Lago Eliana Campêlo , Oliveira Adélia Dalva da Silva , Moura Luana Kelle Batista
Published: June 2021

Cervical cancer is the second type of cancer that most affects women, considered a serious public health problem, however it can be detected and treated early through the Pap smear. This research aimed to analyze the knowledge, attitude and practices of biomedicine students on the Pap smear. A cross-sectional study on Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP), applied with 108 students, was carried out at a Higher Education Institution in Teresina, Piauí, Brazil. The data were collected through the months of February and March of 2018 with the application of a questionnaire. Statistical analysis was descriptive in terms of absolute and relative frequencies. Knowledge 72 (66.6%) and attitude 76 (70.3%) presented adequate levels regarding the examination. As for the practice, the percentage of suitability was of 37 academics (34.2%) relatively not adequate. It was concluded that the students had adequate knowledge and attitude, but an inadequate practice, and the Papanicolaou test is required for the early screening and prevention of cervical cancer.
Knowledge and practice related to the pap smear test among cytopathologists
Authors: Almeida Camila Aparecida Pinheiro Landim , Santos Andressa Brandão dos , Alencar Jessica Aguiar de , Gomes Júnior Antonio Luiz , Carvalho Herica Emilia Félix de , Lago Eliana Campêlo , Ramos Carmen Viana , Feitosa Lucíola Galvão Gondim Corrêa
Published: June 2021

Cervical cancer is the third most common type of cancer amongst women, compared to other neoplasms, with a higher potential for prevention, slow evolution, and has a simple and effective screening test in its detection, cure when diagnosed early. The routine examination in Brazil for the prevention of this type of cancer is the Pap smear test. This study aimed to reveal the knowledge and practice regarding the Pap smear test among cytopathologists. A descriptive and exploratory research, a qualitative approach, performed with 21 cytopathologists, by e-mailing a data collection instrument, from March to April 2018. Data were treated using the Hierarchical Descending Classification in IraMuTeQ software and analyzed by the Discourse of the Collective Subject. The construction of the results was carried out based on aspects of the knowledge of the cytopathologists about the Pap smear, related to the importance of the completion of the post-graduation for its accomplishment, and aspects of cytopathologists practice regarding the relevance of performing the early diagnosis of cervical cancer. We conclude on the need to reorganize the activities in the work process of the health professionals involved in the Pap smear.
Influence of Various Basin Types on Performance of Passive Solar Still: A Review
Authors: Le Tri Hieu , Pham Minh Tuan , Hadiyanto H , Pham Van Viet , Hoang Anh Tuan
Published: June 2021

Passive solar still is the simplest design for distilling seawater by harnessing solar energy. Although it is undeniable that solar still is a promising device to provide an additional freshwater source for global increasing water demand, low thermal efficiency along with daily distillate yield are its major disadvantages. A conventional solar still can produced 2 to 5 L/m2day. Various studies have been carried out to improve passive solar stills in terms of daily productivity, thermal efficiency, and economic effectiveness. Most of the researches that relate to the daily output improvement of passive solar still concentrates on enhancing evaporation or/and condensation processes. While the condensation process is influenced by wind velocity and characteristics of the condensed surface, the evaporation process is mainly affected by the temperature of basin water. Different parameters affect the brackish water temperature such as solar radiation, design parameters (for example water depth, insulators, basin liner absorptivity, reflectors, sun tracking system, etc). The inclined angle of the top cover is suggested to equal the latitude of the experimental place. Moreover, the decrease of water depth was obtained as a good operational parameter, however, the shallow water depth is required additional feed water for ensuring no dry spot existence. Reflectors and sun-tracking systems help solar still absorb as much solar intensity as possible. The internal reflector can enhance daily yield and efficiency of stepped solar still up to 75% and 56% respectively, whereas, passive solar still with the support of a sun-tracking system improved daily yield up to 22%. Despite large efforts to investigate the impact of the different parameters on passive solar distillation, the effect of the basin liner (including appropriate shapes and type of material), needs to be analyzed for improvement in practical utilization. The present work has reviewed the investigation of the solar still performance with various types of basin liner. The review of solar stills has been conducted critically with rectangular basin, fins basin, corrugated basin, wick type, steps shape, and cylindrical shape basin with variety of top cover shapes. The findings from this work conclude that the basin liner with a cylindrical shape had better performance in comparison with other metal types and provides higher freshwater output. Stepped type, inclined, fin absorber, and corrugated shapes had the efficient performance.  Further exploration revealed that copper is the best-used material for the productivity of passive solar still.
Gerbes in Geometry, Field Theory, and Quantisation
Authors: Bunk Severin
Published: June 2021

This is a mostly self-contained survey article about bundle gerbes and some of their recent applications in geometry, field theory, and quantisation. We cover the definition of bundle gerbes with connection and their morphisms, and explain the classification of bundle gerbes with connection in terms of differential cohomology. We then survey how the surface holonomy of bundle gerbes combines with their transgression line bundles to yield a smooth bordism-type field theory. Finally, we exhibit the use of bundle gerbes in geometric quantisation of 2-plectic as well as 1- and 2-shifted symplectic forms. This generalises earlier applications of gerbes to the prequantisation of quasi-symplectic groupoids.
A Governance Approach of Emotion in Family Business: Towards a Multi-level Integrated Framework and Research Agenda
Authors: Labaki Rania , D’Allura Giorgia M.
Published: June 2021

While emotion in family business is beginning to garner closer attention among researchers, the nexus of emotion management and governance has received little attention to date. In this essay, we reflect on and extend the Special Issue contributions by integrating the emotion management literature with the family business and governance literatures. We suggest a governance approach of emotion through a multilevel integrated framework. We introduce “emotion governance” as an overarching set of informal and formal mechanisms that are rooted and developed in the embedded family business contexts. We argue that emotion governance influences the explicit emotion management strategies of family business members at different stages:ex-ante(incentive alignment), during the process (education and support), andex-post(monitoring). It thereby contributes to ensure their accountability in line with family business continuity. Considering the heterogeneity of family businesses, we capture nuances in our framework across family business archetypes through a series of propositions. We chart an agenda for future research to advance the development of a theory of family business governance inclusive of emotion.
An octagonal ultra-wideband double slit antenna for WiMAX and WLAN rejection
Authors: Ramakrishnan Bhakkiyalakshmi , Murugiah Sivashanmugham Vasanthi
Published: June 2021

This article proposes a dual band rejected double slits-based planar octagonal microstrip antenna for Ultra-Wideband (UWB) applications. The antenna built by an edge trimmed partial ground and an octagonal microstrip patch with a horizontal and an inclined rectangular slit. The slits are made to remove the interfering frequency bands WiMAX and WLAN from UWB band. The designed antenna without slits operates on the frequency range 2.78–10.78 GHz with a fractional bandwidth of 119% which includes the UWB frequency band 3.1–10.6 GHz. The antenna with diagonal inclined slit notches the band 4.4–5.83 GHz which excluded WLAN frequency range and shift the starting frequency of UWB band to the right from 2.78 to 3.26 GHz. The antenna with both horizontal and inclined slits further shifts the starting frequency from 3.26 to 3.619 GHz, eliminating the WiMAX band. The excluded bands show the VSWR value greater than 2 dBi whereas the rest of the band has less than 2 dBi. The proposed antenna results in nearly omnidirectional radiation pattern, 6.2 dBi peak gain and 85% radiation efficiency.
Matrix variate pareto distributions
Authors: Zinodiny Shokofeh , Nadarajah Saralees
Published: June 2021

Matrix variate generalizations of Pareto distributions are proposed. Several properties of these distributions including cumulative distribution functions, characteristic functions and relationship to matrix variate beta type I and matrix variate type II distributions are studied.
V4 & Development Co-operation Policy
Authors: Mazur Grzegorz , Banach Jakub
Published: June 2021

The accession of the Visegrad Group (V4) countries to the European Union has triggered their active participation in assistance to less developed countries. Since joining the EU, the analyzed countries have developed ODA legislation and an institutional framework and increased financing in development co-operation. Being a member of the EU and DAC, all V4 countries also have their legal and financial obligations in the area of development co-operation. The shared experience of those countries in creating and implementing their development policy gives reason to investigate their aid systems, development policy challenges and implementation of their commitments as a group of donors. The aims of the paper are to identify main development trends of the V4 countries’ development policies as well as to investigate the implementation of their development commitments taken at a global and EU level. This has allowed to define the main challenges for V4 countries in delivering efficient development assistance to other developing countries in the future, such as improvements in institutional systems, transparent and clearly defined legislation as well as substantial increase of financing transferred by V4 to ODA.
Philosophical Care
Authors: Krüger Caroline
Published: June 2021

Using a case study, the essay explores the question of what Philosophical Care can contribute to the field of Spiritual Care. Conceptualising the personal and thus enabling a differentiated discussion is an important feature, which is complemented by a careful mindful attitude.
Flow distortion effect on electromagnetic flowmeter and mitigation using magnetic flux manipulation
Authors: Dasgupta Subhashish
Published: June 2021

The effect of velocity profile distortion on the performance of flow sensors like the electromagnetic flowmeter has been a popular topic in flow measurement research. In many of the investigations computational modeling has been useful as a tool to understand the impact of flow distortion on flowmeter measurement accuracy. However, a more realistic investigation can be conducted by a model with ability to account for three-dimensional variation in fluidic and electromagnetic characteristics. In this research paper, a multiphysics model of the electromagnetic flowmeter accounting for three-dimensional flow distortion effects and independent of experimental measurements is developed and validated. The model integrates the flow and magnetic fields to yield the induced electrical signal, and is a departure from the popular weight function calculation approach. The model predicts flow distortion effects realistically and is employed in evaluating an idea to mitigate flow distortion problems: manipulating the magnetic field to minimize distortion effects. It is seen that while flow distortion induces a 3 to 4 % error in a flowmeter designed arbitrarily, proper design of the coils can reduce this error to an insignificant level.
New Public Management in the Developing Countries: Effects and Implications on Human Resource Management
Authors: Mahmoud Moumen , Othman Rosly
Published: June 2021

Understanding the linkage between New Public Management (NPM) reforms and Human Resource Management (HRM) are required to be highlighted. A Systematic Literature Review (SLR) used as a research methodology to discuss the implementation of NPM reforms, gaps and challenges of NPM, and the effects and implications of these gaps and challenges on HRM. This paper contributes to the existing literature by offering important lessons and experiences of the implemented NPM reforms, alongside their major gaps and challenges towards HRM in the developing world. The discussion and conclusion are presented at the end.
The Effect of Music Listening and Progressive Muscle Relaxation on The Stress Level of Novice Music Teachers during Coronavirus Disease 2019 (Covid-19) in Malaysia
Authors: Peyee Yong , Wing Cheong Ku , Hwa Poon Chiew
Published: June 2021

The outbreak of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has contributed stress to many people around the world due to fear and anxiety. Other than health issues, it has threatened the overall economy and influenced a drastic change of lifestyle. The purpose of this quasi-experimental study was to examine the effect of music listening and progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) on the stress level of novice music teachers in Malaysia by using a mixed-method research design, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches. Based on the pre-test questionnaire, a sample of 30 participants was divided equally into high-moderate stress and low-stress groups based on Perceived Stress Scale-10 (PSS-10). The quantitative results revealed a significant decrease in stress scores among the majority of the novice music teachers from high-moderate stress groups and insignificant differences in low-stress groups. The intervention was found to be effective as a stress-reduction therapy and benefits more on participants with higher stress levels. Ten interviewees were selected from the 30 participants to examine their career-stress-related challenges. The qualitative findings were divided into professional and non-professional challenges, included online teaching and learning, time management, financial issues, physiological issues, and emotional issues.
Implementation of Kupingan Method in Javanese Karawitan Music Training for Foreigners
Authors: Widodo Widodo , Susetyo Bagus , Walton Susan , Appleton William
Published: June 2021

The present work explores the implementation of kupingan method in the karawitan music training process to foreign participants with written tradition background. Moreover, it aims to identify, analyze, and elaborate the strength and weaknesses of kupingan method in transfer knowledge of gamelan skills. The present study employed a descriptive-qualitative method and class-action research design. The research objects involved the training of Javanese karawitan music to Tlaga Madu group from the University of Michigan in 2019. The data were obtained through observation of participation, interview, and document study. The data were further validated by triangulation technique and analyzed by steps as follows: identification, classification, verification, reduction, and explanation. The results indicate that kupingan method is applicable in the karawitan music training for foreigners, yet, to a very limited extent. By implementing the method, the training participants can master simple gending (colotomic structure) instrumental of learning materials, such as basic technique and patterns of instruments in the small-format gending lancaran form. On the other hand, the materials of complex gending with larger formats than lancaran are more effective to be disseminated by karawitan notation that is written in detail and elaborated with a demonstration of the song play.
Effect of enzymatic treatment of flax on chemical composition and the extent of fiber separation
Authors: De Prez Jana , Van Vuure Aart Willem , Ivens Jan , Aerts Guido , Van de Voorde Ilse
Published: June 2021

Enzymatic treatment of flax is gaining more interest as a promising alternative for dew retting, which is known for its dependence on weather and climate. Therefore, the effect of enzymatic treatments of flax on the effectiveness of fiber separation from each other and chemical fiber composition was investigated in this study. Chemical composition was determined by a gravimetric method, while ease of separation (in the composites society, the process to obtain natural fibers from the plant is usually defined as extraction) was determined based on the amount of long fibers obtained as well as total time needed to release this fiber fraction, providing necessary insights in the extent to which fibers are loosened from the stem. Flax treatment with pectate lyase and polygalacturonase resulted in purified fibers with a cellulose content of 78 and 79% w/w and promising yield values of 24 and 17%, respectively. Besides these pectinases, xylanase activity also showed high potential for enzymatic retting. Hence, pectate lyase, polygalacturonase, and xylanase are promising enzymes to successfully replace the dew retting process.
Effect of span length on the impact bending strength of poplar and pine woods
Authors: Bal Bekir Cihad
Published: June 2021

Solid wood is an important engineering material. Solid wood has superior properties, such as being renewable, easily processed, relatively inexpensive, and having higher mechanical properties relative to its density than any other engineering materials. Density, moisture content, tree species, knots, cracks, and some other variables influence the mechanical properties of wood. In this study, the effect of span length on the impact bending strength (IBS) of wood was investigated. Poplar and pine wood samples were used as test materials in the experiments. The IBS measurements were carried out following TS 2477 (1976) using a pendulum impact bending machine. Tests were conducted for various span lengths of 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, and 35 cm. The results indicated that there is a relationship between IBS and span length. The highest impact bending strength was obtained with a span length of 10 cm for poplar and pine wood. The relationship between IBS and span length was parabolic. The coefficients of determination were 0.94 and 0.99 for poplar and pine wood, respectively.
Availability of Pediatric Inpatient Services in the United States
Authors: Cushing Anna M. , Bucholz Emily M. , Chien Alyna T. , Rauch Daniel A. , Michelson Kenneth A.
Published: June 2021

OBJECTIVES

We sought to evaluate trends in pediatric inpatient unit capacity and access and to measure pediatric inpatient unit closures across the United States.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective study of 4720 US hospitals using the 2008–2018 American Hospital Association survey. We used linear regression to describe trends in pediatric inpatient unit and PICU capacity. We compared trends in pediatric inpatient days and bed counts by state. We examined changes in access to care by calculating distance to the nearest pediatric inpatient services by census block group. We analyzed hospital characteristics associated with pediatric inpatient unit closure in a survival model.

RESULTS

Pediatric inpatient units decreased by 19.1% (34 units per year; 95% confidence interval [CI] 31 to 37), and pediatric inpatient unit beds decreased by 11.8% (407 beds per year; 95% CI 347 to 468). PICU beds increased by 16.0% (66.9 beds per year; 95% CI 53 to 81), primarily at children’s hospitals. Rural areas experienced steeper proportional declines in pediatric inpatient unit beds (−26.1% vs −10.0%). Most states experienced decreases in both pediatric inpatient unit beds (median state −18.5%) and pediatric inpatient days (median state −10.0%). Nearly one-quarter of US children experienced an increase in distance to their nearest pediatric inpatient unit. Low-volume pediatric units and those without an associated PICU were at highest risk of closing.

CONCLUSIONS

Pediatric inpatient unit capacity is decreasing in the United States. Access to inpatient care is declining for many children, particularly those in rural areas. PICU beds are increasing, primarily at large children’s hospitals. Policy and surge planning improvements may be needed to mitigate the effects of these changes.
Detection of colistin resistance among multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli clinical isolates in Turkey
Authors: Kansak Nilgün , Aksaray Sebahat , Aslan Müge , Adaleti Rıza , Gönüllü Nevriye
Published: June 2021

In this study investigation of plasmid-mediated mcr 1-5 resistance genes was performed among multidrug-resistant (MDR) colistin sensitive and resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli strains isolated in our laboratory. We aimed to evaluate automated system (Vitek-2), broth microdilution (BMD) reference method and chromogenic media performance. Totally 94 MDR K. pneumoniae and six E. coli isolates were included in the study. CHROMID® Colistin R agar (COLR) (bioMerieux, France) was used to determine the colistin resistance by chromogenic method. Standard PCR amplification was performed using specific primers to screen the plasmid-mediated mcr 1-5 genes. Sixty-one isolates were resistant to colistin and 39 were susceptible with reference BMD. The essential and categorical agreement of Vitek-2 was determined as 100 and 99%. The sensitivity of COLR medium was 100%, the specificity was 97.5%. In our study mcr-1 was detected in eight isolates, while other mcr genes were not detected. Due to the high sensitivity and specificity of the COLR medium, it can be used in routine diagnostics for the detection of colistin resistance. In our study we detected 8% prevalence of mcr-1 among MDR strains however, two mcr-1 positive isolates were found sensitive to colistin by BMD.
Status of national agriculture market (eNAM) in Punjab
Authors: Singh Lovepreet , Goyal Mini
Published: June 2021

National Agriculture Market (eNAM) is a pan-India electronic trading portal which was introduced by the government of India in 585 Agriculture Produce Marketing Committees (APMCs) in 16 states and two Union Territories (UTs) till 31st March 2018. The mission of eNAM is to integrate all the APMCs across the country through common online platform to facilitate farmers so that they can earn high income by selling their produce anywhere in the country. There was slow but definite increase in the adoption of eNAM by the stakeholders in India as well as in Punjab. Still about 12 per cent of total APMCs of Punjab has been integrated with eNAM. Since the implementation of eNAM in Punjab total seven commodities viz., potato, Basmati, maize, kinnow, Moong dal, cotton and green peas are traded through it. So far more than two lakh farmers, nearly 1400 traders and 5000 plus commission agents registered with portal have traded commodities worth Rs. 3686 crore involving 12.61 lakh tone of agriculture produce. The government of Punjab is on the right direction by implementing the policy of “One Nation One Market” for agricultural produce because both the quantity and value of trade is increased during the year 2019-20 as compared to 2018-19. It certainly helps in strengthens the existing system of agriculture marketing.
Yield gap analysis of redgram and redgram based cropping systems in Prakasam district of Andhra Pradesh
Authors: Preethi A.Vijaya , Devi K. Uma , Rao D. Vishnu Sankar , Rao V. Srinivasa
Published: June 2021

The study was conducted on yield gap analysis of redgram and redgram based cropping systems in Prakasam district of Andhra Pradesh during the year 2014-15. A sample size of 120 farmers were selected by using multiple stage random sampling method. The multiple linear regression equation was used for studying the functional relationship between the yield gap of redgram based cropping systems and independent variables viz., seed rate gap (kg/ha), seed charges gap (Rs./ha), nitrogen gap (kg/ha), phosphorus gap (kg/ha), potassium gap (kg/ha), labour charges gap (Rs./ha), pesticide gap (Rs./ha) and manures gap (t/ha). From analysis, the results were obtained that, the variables such as seed cost gap (Rs./ha), phosphorus gap (kg/ha), labour charges gap (Rs./ha) and pesticide gap (Rs./ha) were mainly responsible for the yield gap for redgram sole crop, redgram + Bajra cropping system and pooled cropping systems. In pooled regression analysis, the regression co-efficients of cropping system dummy variables (CS1, CS2 and CS4- Redgram + Bajra, Redgram + Greengram, Redgram + Sorghum (fodder) cropping systems) had positive and significant influence on yield gap. This indicates that more yield gap observed in redgram based cropping systems than sole redgram was because of relatively poor adoption concerning intercropping technologies by the sample redgram farmers.
Frame error in sample survey
Authors: Singh Neelam Kumar
Published: June 2021

Quite often sampling frames are incomplete and imperfect. The sampling results based on imperfect frame will lead to sampling and non-sampling error along with third error called frame error which is rarely discussed. This occurs because estimate based on sampling population will not conform to the target population because of imperfection of frame and dynamic nature of frame. It is emphasized that that attention should be drawn to the frame error.
Gassânilerin Kuruluşundan Yıkılışına Kadar Gassâni-Sâsâni Münasebetleri
Authors: CENGİZ Ercan , CANPOLAT Yusuf
Published: June 2021

Öz

Orta çağın iki önemli gücü olan Romalılar ile Sâsânilerin Anadolu, Suriye, Irak ve Mezopotamya’nın hâkimiyeti için sürekli rekabet halinde olması, toprak hâkimiyeti için yaşanan askeri mücadelenin ticari alana da yansımasına sebep olmuştur. Bölgede bulunan Arap krallıkları da konumları itibariyle bu mücadeleye dâhil olmuştur. İki imparatorluk arasında tampon devlet konumunda bulunan bu devletlerden Suriye’de kurulmuş olan Gassâniler Romalılar ile Irak’ta kurulmuş olan Lâhmiler ise Sâsâniler ile ittifak yapmıştır.

Sâsâniler ile Romalılar arasında meydana gelen savaşlar geniş bir alana yayıldığından ve uzun sürdüğünden gerek askeri gerekse ekonomik olarak her iki devleti de yıpratmaktaydı. Sınır çatışmalarının uzun süreli savaşlara dönüşmesinin önüne geçebilmek için mücadelelerini daha çok Gassâniler ile Lâhmiler üzerinden sürdürmüşlerdir.

Bu politika doğrultusunda Gassâniler ile Lâhmiler vasalı oldukları devletin çıkarları doğrultusunda sık sık karşı karşıya gelerek savaşmışlardır. Fakat taraflardan birinin üstünlük sağlaması ve yenilen devletin hamisi aleyhine topraklarını genişletmeye başlaması üzerine Sâsâniler ve Romalılar da bu mücadeleye dâhil olunca uzun süren savaşlar kaçınılmaz olmuştur. Gassâniler ile Lâhmiler, vasalı oldukları Sâsâniler ve Romalılar ile askeri, ticari ve kültürel alanda yoğun etkileşimde bulunmalarından kaynaklı olarak medeniyet alanında diğer Arap devletlerine nazaran daha ileri bir seviyeye ulaşmışlardır.