bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of the diagnostic accuracy and relevance of a novel ELISA system developed for seroepidemiologic surveys of Helicobacter pylori infection in African settings
Authors: Tshibangu-Kabamba Evariste , Phuc Bui Hoang , Tuan Vo Phuoc , Fauzia Kartika Afrida , Kabongo-Tshibaka Augustin , Kayiba Nadine Kalenda , Rosas-Aguirre Angel , Devleesschauwer Brecht , Cimuanga-Mukanya Alain , Ngoma Kisoko Patrick de Jésus , Matsumoto Takashi , Akada Junko , Disashi Ghislain Tumba , Mumba Ngoyi Dieudonné , Kido Yasutoshi , Speybroeck Niko , Yamaoka Yoshio
Published: September 2021

Beside diagnostic uncertainties due to the lack of a perfect gold standard test forHelicobacter pyloriinfection, the diagnosis and the prevalence estimation for this infection encounter particular challenges in Africa including limited diagnostic tools and specific genetic background. We developed and evaluated the accuracy of an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) system tailored forH.pylorigenetics in Africa (HpAfr-ELISA). Strains belonging to main genetic populations infecting Africans were exploited as sources for whole-cell antigens to establish in-house the ELISA system. A phase II unmatched case-control study explored the diagnostic accuracy of the HpAfr-ELISA using a training set of samples collected from dyspeptic patients from Kinshasa, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) who had been tested with invasive standard tests (i.e., histology, culture, and rapid urease test) in 2017. Then the assay was cross-validated through a community-based survey assessing the prevalence ofH.pyloriand associated factors in 425 adults from Mbujimayi, DRC in 2018. Bayesian inferences were used to deal with statistical uncertainties of estimates (true prevalence, sensitivity, and specificity) in the study population. At its optimal cut-off-value 20.2 U/mL, the assay achieved an estimated sensitivity of 97.6% (95% credible interval [95%CrI]: 89.2; 99.9%) and specificity of 90.5% (95%CrI: 78.6; 98.5). Consistent outcomes obtained at repeated tests attested the robustness of the assay (negative and positive agreements always > 70%). The true prevalence ofH.pyloriwas estimated 53.8% [95%CrI: 42.8; 62.7%]. Increasing age (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] > 1.0 [95% confidence interval (CI): > 1.0; 1.1]; p<0.001), overcrowding households (aOR = 3.2 [95%CI: 2.0; 5.1]; p<0.001), and non-optimal hand hygiene (aOR = 4.5 [95%CI: 2.0; 11.4]; p = 0.001) were independently associated with theH.pylori-seropositivity. The novel ELISA system has demonstrated good diagnostic accuracy and potential usefulness for management and mitigation strategies forH.pyloriinfection in African settings.
The association between tropical cyclones and dengue fever in the Pearl River Delta, China during 2013-2018: A time-stratified case-crossover study
Authors: Li Chuanxi , Zhao Qi , Zhao Zhe , Liu Qiyong , Ma Wei
Published: September 2021

Background

Studies have shown that tropical cyclones are associated with several infectious diseases, while very few evidence has demonstrated the relationship between tropical cyclones and dengue fever. This study aimed to examine the potential impact of tropical cyclones on dengue fever incidence in the Pearl River Delta, China.

Methods

Data on daily dengue fever incidence, occurrence of tropical cyclones and meteorological factors were collected between June and October, 2013–2018 from nine cities in the Pearl River Delta. Multicollinearity of meteorological variables was examined via Spearman correlation, variables with strong correlation (r>0.7) were not included in the model simultaneously. A time-stratified case-crossover design combined with conditional Poisson regression model was performed to evaluate the association between tropical cyclones and dengue fever incidence. Stratified analyses were performed by intensity grades of tropical cyclones (tropical storm and typhoon), sex (male and female) and age-groups (<18, 18–59, ≥60 years).

Results

During the study period, 20 tropical cyclones occurred and 47,784 dengue fever cases were reported. Tropical cyclones were associated with an increased risk of dengue fever in the Pearl River Delta region, with the largest relative risk of 1.62 with the 95% confidence interval (1.45–1.80) occurring on the lag 5 day. The strength of association was greater and lasted longer for typhoon than for tropical storm. There was no difference in effect estimates between males and females. However, individuals aged over 60 years were more vulnerable than others.

Conclusions

Tropical cyclones are associated with increased risk of local dengue fever incidence in south China, with the elderly more vulnerable than other population subgroups. Health protective strategies should be developed to reduce the potential risk of dengue epidemic after tropical cyclones.
Parrotfish corallivory on stress-tolerant corals in the Anthropocene
Authors: Huertas Víctor , Morais Renato A. , Bonaldo Roberta M. , Bellwood David R.
Published: September 2021

Cumulative anthropogenic stressors on tropical reefs are modifying the physical and community structure of coral assemblages, altering the rich biological communities that depend on this critical habitat. As a consequence, new reef configurations are often characterized by low coral cover and a shift in coral species towards massive and encrusting corals. Given that coral numbers are dwindling in these new reef systems, it is important to evaluate the potential influence of coral predation on these remaining corals. We examined the effect of a key group of coral predators (parrotfishes) on one of the emerging dominant coral taxa on Anthropocene reefs, massive Porites. Specifically, we evaluate whether the intensity of parrotfish predation on this key reef-building coral has changed in response to severe coral reef degradation. We found evidence that coral predation rates may have decreased, despite only minor changes in parrotfish abundance. However, higher scar densities on small Porites colonies, compared to large colonies, suggests that the observed decrease in scarring rates may be a reflection of colony-size specific rates of feeding scars. Reduced parrotfish corallivory may reflect the loss of small Porites colonies, or changing foraging opportunities for parrotfishes. The reduction in scar density on massive Porites suggests that the remaining stress-tolerant corals may have passed the vulnerable small colony stage. These results highlight the potential for shifts in ecological functions on ecosystems facing high levels of environmental stress.
Adulteration of beeswax: A first nationwide survey from Belgium
Authors: El Agrebi Noëmie , Svečnjak Lidija , Horvatinec Jelena , Renault Véronique , Rortais Agnes , Cravedi Jean-Pierre , Saegerman Claude
Published: September 2021

Beeswax is intended for use in the beekeeping sector but also in the agro-food, pharmaceutical or cosmetics sectors. The adulteration of beeswax is an emerging issue that was reported lately at several occasions in the scientific literature. This issue tends to become more frequent and global, but its exact extent is not accurately defined. The present study aims to assess the current situation in Belgium through a nationwide survey. Randomized beeswax samples originating from Belgian beekeepers (N = 98) and commercial suppliers (N = 9) were analysed with a Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) coupled with Attenuated Total Reflectance (ATR) accessory (FTIR-ATR spectroscopy) for adulteration. The survey revealed a frequency of 9.2% and 33.3% of adulteration in beekeepers beeswax samples (9 samples out of 98: 2 with paraffin and 7 with stearin/stearic acid) and commercial beeswax samples (3 samples out of 9: all adulterated with stearin/stearic acid), respectively. The analysed samples were adulterated with various percentages of paraffin (12 to 78.8%) and stearin/stearic acid (1.2 to 20.8%). This survey indicates that in the beekeepers samples, beeswax adulteration was more frequent in comb foundation and crude beeswax than in comb wax. With the example of this nationwide survey conducted in Belgium, this study shows the emergence of the issue and the urgent need for action to safeguard the health of both honey bees health and humans, in particular with the setting of a proper regulation legal framework and a specific routine analytical testing of commercial beeswax to ensure beeswax quality.
Experimental and theoretical study on the propagation characteristics of stress wave in filled jointed rock mass
Authors: Jia Shuailong , Wang Zhiliang , Wang Jianguo , Lu Zhitang , Wang Haochen
Published: September 2021

This study is to theoretically and experimentally investigate the propagation of stress waves in the filled joint set. The time-domain recursive method is used to derive the propagation equations in the filled joint set, and the filled joints are further simplified into structural planes without joint thickness. The split-Hopkinson rock bar is modified to simulate P wave propagation normally across the parallel filled joints. The relationship among stress-closure curve, joint specific stiffness, transmission coefficient and loading rate is analyzed. The results show that, for the rock mass with a single joint, both the joint specific stiffness and transmission coefficient of different filling materials increase with loading rate. More serious particle breakage of the filling materials leads to lower joint specific stiffness and transmission coefficient. For the rock mass with two joints, the joint specific stiffness of each joint affects the transmission coefficient of the filled joint set. It is found that our theoretical calculations are basically consistent with the experimental ones, and the joint specific stiffness can well characterize the propagation behavior of stress wave in the filled parallel rock joints.
Optimizing use of multi-antibody assays for Lyme disease diagnosis: A bioinformatic approach
Authors: Porwancher Richard , Landsberg Lisa
Published: September 2021

Multiple different recombinant and peptide antigens are now available for serodiagnosis of Lyme disease (LD), but optimizing test utilization remains challenging. Since 1995 the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended a 2-tiered serologic approach consisting of a first-tier whole-cell enzyme immunoassay (EIA) for polyvalent antibodies toBorrelia burgdorferifollowed by confirmation of positive or equivocal results by IgG and IgM immunoblots [standard 2-tiered (STT) approach]. Newer modified 2-tiered (MTT) approaches employ a second-tier EIA to detect antibodies toB.burgdorferirather than immunoblotting. We applied modern bioinformatic techniques to a large public database of recombinant and peptide antigen-based immunoassays to improve testing strategy. A retrospective CDC collection of 280 LD samples and 559 controls had been tested using the STT approach as well as kinetic-EIAs for VlsE1-IgG, C6-IgG, VlsE1-IgM, and pepC10-IgM antibodies. When used individually, the cutoff for each kinetic-EIA was set to generate 99% specificity. Utilizing logistic-likelihood regression analysis and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) techniques we determined that VlsE1-IgG, C6-IgG, and pepC10-IgM antibodies each contributed significant diagnostic information; a single-tier diagnostic score (DS) was generated for each sample using a weighted linear combination of antibody levels to these 3 antigens. DS performance was then compared to the STT and to MTT models employing different combinations of kinetic-EIAs. After setting the DS cutoff to match STT specificity (99%), the DS was 22.5% more sensitive than the STT for early-acute-phase disease (95% CI: 11.8% to 32.2%), 16.0% more sensitive for early-convalescent-phase disease (95% CI: 7.2% to 24.7%), and equivalent for detection of disseminated infection. The DS was also significantly more sensitive for early-acute-phase LD than MTT models whose specificity met or exceeded 99%. Prospective validation of this single-tier diagnostic score for Lyme disease will require larger studies using a broader range of potential cross-reacting conditions.
Unconditioned and learned morphine tolerance influence hippocampal-dependent short-term memory and the subjacent expression of GABA-A receptor alpha subunits
Authors: Ghamkharinejad Ghazaleh , Marashi Seyed Hossein , Foolad Forough , Javan Mohammad , Fathollahi Yaghoub
Published: September 2021

Background

ɣ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) facilitator valproic acid may be able to curb memory disruption induced by morphine exposure.

Objective

The effects of the GABA facilitator valproic acid on the behavioral tolerance induced by morphine were investigated. Then hippocampal-dependent tasks named spatial-working and short-term memory procedures using the Y-maze apparatus were examined in morphine tolerant rats. Finally, the changes in the expression of hippocampal GABA-A receptors underlying morphine tolerance were also examined.

Methods

Rats were treated with daily morphine injections, with or without distinct contextual pairing. To examine the effect of valproic acid on morphine tolerance expression, valproic acid was pretreated an hour before morphine. Spatial-working and short-term memory procedures using the Y-maze apparatus were examined in morphine tolerant rats. Afterwards the changes in the expression of hippocampal GABAα receptors using the quantitative real-time PCR and western blot techniques to detect GABArα subunits mRNAs and protein level were studied.

Results

Our results showed that both learned and non-associative morphine tolerance influence short-term memory and the subjacent expression of GABArα mRNAs and protein level. Despite its attenuating effects on the development and expression of both learned and non-associative morphine tolerance, only associative morphine tolerance-induced memory dysfunction was ameliorated by valproic acid pretreatment. We also found that the expression of GABArα1, α2, α5 subunits mRNAs and GABAα protein level were affected heavier in associative morphine tolerant rats.

Conclusion

Our data supports the hypothesis that unconditioned and learned morphine tolerance influences short-term memory and the expression of GABArα 1, α2, α5 mRNAs and GABArα protein level differently, and adds to our understanding of the behavioral and molecular aspects of the learned tolerance to morphine effects.
Emotional arousal in 2D versus 3D virtual reality environments
Authors: Tian Feng , Hua Minlei , Zhang Wenrui , Li Yingjie , Yang Xiaoli
Published: September 2021

Previous studies have suggested that virtual reality (VR) can elicit emotions in different visual modes using 2D or 3D headsets. However, the effects on emotional arousal by using these two visual modes have not been comprehensively investigated, and the underlying neural mechanisms are not yet clear. This paper presents a cognitive psychological experiment that was conducted to analyze how these two visual modes impact emotional arousal. Forty volunteers were recruited and were randomly assigned to two groups. They were asked to watch a series of positive, neutral and negative short VR videos in 2D and 3D. Multichannel electroencephalograms (EEG) and skin conductance responses (SCR) were recorded simultaneously during their participation. The results indicated that emotional stimulation was more intense in the 3D environment due to the improved perception of the environment; greater emotional arousal was generated; and higher beta (21–30 Hz) EEG power was identified in 3D than in 2D. We also found that both hemispheres were involved in stereo vision processing and that brain lateralization existed in the processing.
Identifying the potential of anadromous salmonid habitat restoration with life cycle models
Authors: Jorgensen Jeffrey C. , Nicol Colin , Fogel Caleb , Beechie Timothy J.
Published: September 2021

An investigation into the causes of species decline should include examination of habitats important for multiple life stages. Integrating habitat impacts across life stages with life-cycle models (LCMs) can reveal habitat impairments inhibiting recovery and help guide restoration efforts. As part of the final elements of the Habitat Restoration Planning model (HARP; Beechie et al. this volume), we developed LCMs for four populations of three species of anadromous salmonids (Oncorhynchus kisutch, O. tshawytscha, and O. mykiss), and ran diagnostic scenarios to examine effects of barrier removal, fine sediment reduction, wood augmentation, riparian shade, restoration of the main channel and bank conditions, beaver pond restoration, and floodplain reconnection. In the wood scenario, spawner abundance for all populations increased moderately (29–48%). In the shade scenario, spring-run Chinook salmon abundance increased the most (48%) and fall-run Chinook salmon and steelhead were much less responsive. Coho responded strongly to the beaver pond and floodplain scenarios (76% and 54%, respectively). The fine sediment scenario most benefitted fall- and spring-run Chinook salmon (32–63%), whereas steelhead and coho were less responsive (11–21% increase). More observations are needed to understand high fine sediment and its impacts. Our LCMs were region-specific, identifying places where habitat actions had the highest potential effects. For example, the increase in spring-run Chinook salmon in the wood scenario was driven by the Cascade Mountains Ecological Region. And, although the overall response of coho salmon was small in the barrier removal scenario (6% increase at the scale of the entire basin), barrier removals had important sub-regional impacts. The HARP analysis revealed basin-wide and regional population-specific potential benefits by action types, and this habitat-based approach could be used to develop restoration strategies and guide population rebuilding. An important next step will be to ground-truth our findings with robust empirically-based estimates of life stage-specific survivals and abundances.
Machine Learning augmented docking studies of aminothioureas at the SARS-CoV-2—ACE2 interface
Authors: Rola Monika , Krassowski Jakub , Górska Julita , Grobelna Anna , Płonka Wojciech , Paneth Agata , Paneth Piotr
Published: September 2021

The current pandemic outbreak clearly indicated the urgent need for tools allowing fast predictions of bioactivity of a large number of compounds, either available or at least synthesizable. In the computational chemistry toolbox, several such tools are available, with the main ones being docking and structure-activity relationship modeling either by classical linear QSAR or Machine Learning techniques. In this contribution, we focus on the comparison of the results obtained using different docking protocols on the example of the search for bioactivity of compounds containing N-N-C(S)-N scaffold at the S-protein of SARS-CoV-2 virus with ACE2 human receptor interface. Based on over 1800 structures in the training set we have predicted binding properties of the complete set of nearly 600000 structures from the same class using the Machine Learning Random Forest Regressor approach.
Cultural differences in stress and affection following social support receipt
Authors: Pourmand Vida , Lawley Kendall A. , Lehman Barbara J.
Published: September 2021

Culturally appropriate social support predicts better psychological outcomes. Motivation for providing social support may vary cross-culturally, with more independent cultures valuing self-esteem and more interdependent cultures valuing closeness. Participants in the U.S. (N = 85) and Singapore (N = 78) reported on emotions and social support receipt using the Day Reconstruction Method. We examined cultural differences in stress and affection, and tested country as a moderator of the associations between both social support receipt and social support motivation, and next-episode emotions. Multilevel modeling analyses showed that not only did the emotional correlates of social support receipt vary by country, but that recipient perceptions of esteem-building and closeness-fostering SS also differentially correlated with subsequent emotion. For example, esteem-building SS predicted greater next-episode stress for Singaporean participants, but less stress in the U.S. Esteem-building SS predicted more next-episode affection only in the U.S. Culturally appropriate social support predicts positive psychological outcomes. This research highlights the importance of considering culture when examining the dynamic emotional correlates of social support receipt.
How do befriending interventions alleviate loneliness and social isolation among older people? A realist evaluation study
Authors: Fakoya Olujoke A. , McCorry Noleen K. , Donnelly Michael
Published: September 2021

Background

Befriending is a popular way in which to intervene to combat loneliness and social isolation among older people. However, there is a need to improve our understanding about how these interventions work, for whom and in which contexts, to make the best use of the increasing investment in the provision and delivery of befriending services.

Methods

A realist evaluation was undertaken as it focuses on uncovering causal processes and interactions between mechanisms and contextual characteristics. Five case studies of befriending programmes in Northern Ireland were studied, reflecting variation in contextual variables, service user and provider characteristics. Data was collected via service documentation and semi-structured interviews (n = 46) with stakeholders involved in the delivery and receipt of befriending interventions.

Results

Eight initial programme theories were generated, which were ‘tested’ in the case study analysis to uncover context-mechanism-outcome relationships. Mechanisms identified included reciprocity, empathy, autonomy, and privacy which were triggered in different contexts to support the alleviation of loneliness and social isolation. Reciprocity was ‘triggered’ in contexts where service users and befrienders shared characteristics, the befriender was a volunteer and befriending took the form of physical companionship. Contexts characterised in terms of shared experiences between befriender and service user triggered empathy. Autonomy was triggered in contexts where befriending relationships were delivered long-term and did not focus on a pre-defined set of priorities. Privacy was triggered in contexts where service users had a cognitive/sensory impairment and received one-to-one delivery.

Conclusion

This study improves understanding about how and why befriending interventions work. Findings indicate that services should be tailored to the needs of service users and take into consideration characteristics including mobility, impairments e.g. physical, sensory and/or cognitive, as well as the influence of service characteristics including payment for befrienders, fixed/long-term befriending relationship, one-to-one support and the impact of non-verbal communication via face-to-face delivery.
Effect of easing lockdown and restriction measures on COVID-19 epidemic projection: A case study of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Shimul Shafiun Nahin , Alradie-Mohamed Angi , Kabir Russell , Al-Mohaimeed Abdulrahman , Mahmud Ilias
Published: September 2021

Objectives

In this study we compared two predictions of COVID-19 cases in the Kingdom Saudi Arabia (KSA) using pre–and post–relaxation of lockdown period data to provide an insight regarding rational exit strategies. We also applied these projections to understand economic costs versus health benefit of lockdown measures.

Methods

We analyzed open access data on COVID-19 cases from March 6 to January 16, 2021 in the KSA. To understand the epidemic projection during the pre- and post-lockdown period, we used two types of modeling: the SIR model, and the time series model. We also estimated the costs and benefits of lockdown- QALY gained compared to the costs of lockdown considering the payment threshold of the Government.

Results

Prediction using lockdown period data suggested that the epidemic might slow down significantly after 109 thousand cases and end on October 6, 2020. However, analysis with latest data after easing lockdown measures suggested that epidemic might be close to an end on October 28, 2021 with 358 thousand cases. The peak has also been shifted from May 18, 2020 to Jun 24, 2020. While earlier model predicted a steady growth in mid-June, the revised model with latest data predicted it in mid-August. In addition, we estimated that 4986 lives would have been saved if lockdown continued but the cost per life saved would be more than $378 thousand, which is way above not only the KSA threshold, but also the threshold of any other highly advanced economies such as the UK and the USA.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that relaxation of lockdown measures negatively impacts the epidemic. However, considering the negative impact of prolong lockdown measures on health and economy, countries must decide on the best timing and strategy to exit from such measures to safely return to normal life with minimum loss of lives and economy considering its economic and health systems’ capacity. Instead of focusing only on health, a balanced approach taking economy under consideration is recommended.
A low direct electrical signal attenuates oxidative stress and inflammation in septic rats
Authors: Ustunova Savas , Haciosmanoglu Ebru , Bulut Huri , Elibol Birsen , Kilic Aysu , Hekimoglu Rumeysa , Tunc Serkan , Atmaca Rabia , Kaygusuz Irem , Tunc Sevil , Tunc Gulcin Beyza , Meral Ismail
Published: September 2021

Electrical stimulation is proposed to exert an antimicrobial effect according to studies performed using bacterial and cell cultures. Therefore, we investigated the effects of electrification on inflammation in septic rats. Twenty-eight male Wistar albino rats were divided into 4 groups: healthy control (C), electrified healthy (E), sepsis (S), and electrified sepsis (SE) groups. Staphylococcus aureus (1 x 109 colonies) in 1 ml of medium was intraperitoneally injected into rats to produce a sepsis model. The rats in the E and SE groups were exposed to a low direct electrical signal (300 Hz and 2.5 volts) for 40 min and 1 and 6 h after bacterial infection. Immediately after the second electrical signal application, blood and tissue samples of the heart, lung, and liver were collected. An antibacterial effect of a low direct electrical signal was observed in the blood of rats. The effects of electrical signals on ameliorating changes in the histological structure of tissues, blood pH, gases, viscosity and cell count, activities of some important enzymes, oxidative stress parameters, inflammation and tissue apoptosis were observed in the SE group compared to the S group. Low direct electrical signal application exerts antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiapoptotic effects on septic rats due to the induction of electrolysis in body fluids without producing any tissue damage.
Biofilm regulation in Clostridioides difficile: Novel systems linked to hypervirulence
Authors: Taggart Megan G. , Snelling William J. , Naughton Patrick J. , La Ragione Roberto M. , Dooley James S. G. , Ternan Nigel G.
Published: September 2021

Clostridiodes difficile (C. difficile) was ranked an “urgent threat” by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 2019. C. difficile infection (CDI) is the most common healthcare-associated infection (HAI) in the United States of America as well as the leading cause of antibiotic-associated gastrointestinal disease. C. difficile is a gram-positive, rod-shaped, spore-forming, anaerobic bacterium that causes infection of the epithelial lining of the gut. CDI occurs most commonly after disruption of the human gut microflora following the prolonged use of broad-spectrum antibiotics. However, the recurrent nature of this disease has led to the hypothesis that biofilm formation may play a role in its pathogenesis. Biofilms are sessile communities of bacteria protected from extracellular stresses by a matrix of self-produced proteins, polysaccharides, and extracellular DNA. Biofilm regulation in C. difficile is still incompletely understood, and its role in disease recurrence has yet to be fully elucidated. However, many factors have been found to influence biofilm formation in C. difficile, including motility, adhesion, and hydrophobicity of the bacterial cells. Small changes in one of these systems can greatly influence biofilm formation. Therefore, the biofilm regulatory system would need to coordinate all these systems to create optimal biofilm-forming physiology under appropriate environmental conditions. The coordination of these systems is complex and multifactorial, and any analysis must take into consideration the influences of the stress response, quorum sensing (QS), and gene regulation by second messenger molecule cyclic diguanosine monophosphate (c-di-GMP). However, the differences in biofilm-forming ability between C. difficile strains such as 630 and the “hypervirulent” strain, R20291, make it difficult to assign a “one size fits all” mechanism to biofilm regulation in C. difficile. This review seeks to consolidate published data regarding the regulation of C. difficile biofilms in order to identify gaps in knowledge and propose directions for future study.
The Virtual Museum VM as a Tool for Learning Science in Informal Environment
Authors: Albadawi Bushra Izzat
Published: September 2021

This study aims to check if a Virtual Museum (VM) is a tool for learning science in an informal environment for lower basic grades from the perspective of parents and children. The study followed the mixed method quantitative and qualitative data collected from the main field-testing stage from the perspective of the user (children and parents) in the educational Research and Development (R & R&D) methodology, the evaluation tools used as instruments for parents, and one for parents for children with a focused interview. The parents' evaluation test yielded positive feedback, and the parents found that the VM is appropriate. The parents were similar in their opinion toward the VM to academic qualifications. The children's evaluation test yielded positive feedback. Children found that the VM is appropriate. Children's comments showed a greater interest level in learning science with technology through gaming and multimedia. They were very excited about using the VM, which helped them understand the subject content and navigate to search for scientific information.
CORAL BLEACHING, KARANG HIDUP ATAU MATI?
Authors: Aulia Qinthan Azzahra , Sari Ni Wayan Purnama
Published: September 2021

Coral reef ecosystem is one of the coastal marine ecosystems in tropical waters. Coral reef ecosystems are vulnerable to damage mainly due to environmental factors. A fairly popular event of coral reef damage is coral bleaching. Mass coral bleaching is generally caused by changes in Sea Surface Temperature (SST). The condition of corals that have bleaching is different from the condition of corals that have died. The recovery process from coral bleaching phenomena can be effectively carried out if the surrounding environment is supportive and sea surface temperature return stable. The phenomenon of coral bleaching is a real indicator of the environmental stresses that occur on coral reefs. This paper will explain about coral bleaching, the factors that cause coral bleaching, and whether the bleaching coral reefs mean alive or dead.
KONDISI TERUMBU KARANG DI PERAIRAN PULAU BATU BILIS, BUNGURAN UTARA, KABUPATEN NATUNA
Authors: Mardani Juardi , Kurniawan Dedy , Susiana Susiana
Published: September 2021

The purpose of this study was to determine the type of coral life forms and cover percentages on Batu Bilis Island. This research was conducted by purposive sampling method, where the determination of the 3 (three) research locations in this study were based on coral location observations and map images. The study results show there are 9 (nine) types of coral life forms in Location 1 dominated by 13.47% of Coral Massive (CM), 7 (seven) types of coral life forms in Location 2 dominated by 17.13% of Acropora encrusting (ACE), and 13 types of coral life forms in Location 3 dominated by 28.90% of Coral Massive (CM). The coral cover percentages are 40.90% of the medium category in Location 1, 31.60% of the medium category in Location 2, and 53.90% of the good category in Location 3. The condition of environmental parameters in Batu Bilis Island was considered good for coral reefs.
A 2-Step Strategy Combining FIB-4 With Transient Elastography and Ultrasound Predicted Liver Cancer After HCV Cure
Authors: Ampuero Javier , Carmona Isabel , Sousa Francisca , Rosales Jose Miguel , López-Garrido Ángeles , Casado Marta , Figueruela Banca , Aparicio Ana , Andrade Raúl , Guerra-Veloz María Fernanda , Maraver Marta , Pascasio Juan Manuel , Estévez Matías , Romero-Gomez Manuel
Published: September 2021

INTRODUCTION:

Despite the direct-acting antiviral therapy has dramatically decreased the likelihood of having liver-related complications and extrahepatic outcomes, the risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is not totally eliminated after sustained virological response (SVR). We aimed to develop an easy-to-apply strategy to be adopted in clinical practice for accurately classifying the HCC risk in hepatitis C virus patients after SVR.

METHODS:

Prospective and multicenter study enrolling hepatitis C virus patients with advanced fibrosis (transient elastography [TE] > 10 kPa) or cirrhosis by ultrasound showing SVR. They were followed up until HCC, liver transplantation, death, or until October 2020, which occurred first, with a minimum follow-up period of 6 months after SVR (follow-up: 49 [interquartile range 28–59] months).

RESULTS:

Patients with cirrhosis by ultrasound represented 58% (611/1,054) of the overall cohort. During the study, HCC occurrence was 5.3% (56/1,054). Multivariate analyses revealed that Fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) > 3.25 (hazard ratio [HR] 2.26 [1.08–4.73]; P = 0.030), TE (HR 1.02 [1.00–1.04]; P = 0.045) and cirrhosis by ultrasound (HR 3.15 [1.36–7.27]; P = 0.007) predicted HCC occurrence. Baseline HCC screening criteria (TE > 10 kPa or cirrhosis) identified patients at higher risk of HCC occurrence in presence of FIB-4 > 3.25 (8.8%; 44/498) vs FIB-4 < 3.25 (2.4%; 12/506), while those with only FIB > 3.25 had no HCC (0%; 0/50) (logRank 22.129; P = 0.0001). A combination of baseline FIB-4 > 3.25 and HCC screening criteria had an annual incidence >1.5 cases per 100 person-years, while the rest of the groups remained <1 case. Patients who maintained post-treatment FIB-4 > 3.25 and HCC screening criteria remained at the highest risk of HCC occurrence (13.7% [21/153] vs 4.9% [9/184]; logRank 7.396, P = 0.007).

DISCUSSION:

We demonstrated that a two-step strategy combining FIB-4, TE, and ultrasound could help stratify HCC incidence risk after SVR.
Finite Element Analysis of Experimentally Tested Concrete Slabs Subjected to Airblast
Authors: Augusto A. S. , Mendonça F. B. , Urgessa G. S. , Iha K.
Published: September 2021

Since the last century, concrete has been used to protect structures against intentional or accidental detonation of explosives. Recently, as concerns about terrorist activities and accidents in plants using explosives increase worldwide, the study of the behaviour of this type of material and any civil or military structure under the influence of explosions has increased. Among the lethal effects of explosive devices, which cause greater loads in structural elements is the airblast effect. For this reason, this paper presents a series of airblast finite element (FEM) simulations developed in Abaqus/Explicit®. To validate the computational method, such simulations are geometrically and structurally kept similar to full-scale tests conducted in a blast test area of the Science and Technology Aerospace Department (Brazilian Air Force). Both simulations and tests consisted of seven reinforced concrete slabs with compressive strengths of about 40 to 60 MPa, variable steel reinforcement areas, slab dimensions measuring 1×1 m, and subjected to 2.7 kg of non-confined plastic bonded explosive. The results demonstrated that FEM simulations can predict the rupture of the tested slabs and how the effect occurs, showing a valid method to investigating the response of RC slabs when compared to expensive field tests. Differences in displacements were observed between the results of FEM simulations and blast field tests, mainly caused by the sensitivity of the case studied, limits of computational capacity, and intrinsic variations in the materials and sensors used in the field tests. However, these differences showed an order of magnitude compatible with the safety coefficients used with RC, demonstrating that the method can be used for the design of RC slabs under the effect of airblast.
Investigations on Monolithic Radome Interactions with Active Electronically Scanned Array on Fighter Platform
Authors: Lakshmaiah Akumalla , Prasad N.N.S.S.R.K. , Ray K.P.
Published: September 2021

The conventional fighter aircrafts are often equipped with fire control radar (FCR) using mechanically scanned antenna (MSA) with passive slots enclosed with monolithic conical radome. When the fighter platforms get upgraded with the modern active electronically steered array (AESA) FCR for better mission capabilities, even though radome change is desirable for optimum performance of AESA, it may not be feasible due to development time. This necessitate the evaluation of AESA radar with the existing monolithic radome. Hence active antenna aperture radiation pattern is required to be assessed with monolithic radome. To address this issue, simulation is preferred over physical testing, due to the reduced cost, time and complexity in measurements and ability to verify compatibility. In the present paper, the influence of monolithic radome on the active antenna radiation patterns are simulated and analysed. The characterisation studies helped for better optimisation of active aperture, optimum size for new radome development and additional space on fighter platforms that can be used for integration of new subsystems. Simulations are performed at two different locations of antenna inside radome. Experimental validations have been carried out to prove the efficacy of simulated results, which are in agreement.
Distinguishing Lightweight Block Ciphers in Encrypted Images
Authors: Mishra Girish , Pal S. K. , Murthy S. V. S. S. N. V. G. Krishna , Vats Kanishk , Raina Rakshak
Published: September 2021

Modern day lightweight block ciphers provide powerful encryption methods for securing IoT communication data. Tiny digital devices exchange private data which the individual users might not be willing to get disclosed. On the other hand, the adversaries try their level best to capture this private data. The first step towards this is to identify the encryption scheme. This work is an effort to construct a distinguisher to identify the cipher used in encrypting the traffic data. We try to establish a deep learning based method to identify the encryption scheme used from a set of three lightweight block ciphers viz. LBlock, PRESENT and SPECK. We make use of images from MNIST and fashion MNIST data sets for establishing the cryptographic distinguisher. Our results show that the overall classification accuracy depends firstly on the type of key used in encryption and secondly on how frequently the pixel values change in original input image.
Sensitivity Analysis of the Turning Motion of an Underwater Glider on the Viscous Hydrodynamic Coefficients
Authors: Rayaprolu Venkata Shashank Shankar , Vijayakumar R
Published: September 2021

Autonomous underwater gliders (AUG) are a class of underwater vehicles that move using a buoyancy engine and forces from wings. Gliders execute turning motion with the help of a rudder or an internal roll control mechanism and the trajectory of the turn is a spiral. This paper analyses the sensitivity of the characteristics of spiral manoeuvre on the hydrodynamic coefficients of the glider. Based on the dynamics model of a gliding fish whose turn is enabled by a rudder, the effect of hydrodynamic coefficients of the hull and the rudder on the spiral motion are quantified. Local sensitivity analysis is undertaken using the indirect method. The order of importance of hydrodynamic coefficients is evaluated. It is observed that the spiral path parameters are most sensitive to the side force created by the rudder and the effect of the drag coefficient is predominant to that of the lift coefficients. This study will aid in quantifying the effect of change of geometry on the manoeuvrability of AUGs.
El arte como posibilidad para la esperanza: Resistencias y re-existencias juveniles para la construcción de paz en la ciudad de Bogotá desde la experiencia con la Red Somos Generación de Verdad
Authors: Raigosa Mejía Marisol , Correa Ramírez Christian Felipe , Beltrán Landazury Jihed Jesenia , Contreras Silva Paula Andrea
Published: September 2021

El objetivo de este artículo es: a) rescatar las experiencias, sentires y perspectivas que adop­tan los jóvenes, en torno al posicionamiento que asumen como sujetos políticos que aportan a la construcción de paz por medio del arte. Con base en un enfoque cualitativo y hermenéu­tico- se realizó un grupo focal con diez jóvenes que pertenecen a la Red Somos Generación de Verdad -Macro territorial Bogotá-Soacha- de la Comisión para el Esclarecimiento de la Verdad, la Convivencia y la No Repetición (CEV). Se encontró en los repertorios obtenidos que el arte representa para ellos una herramienta y una posibilidad de esperanza, mediante la cual generan espacios de realidad-ficción. Además, se concluyó que, a través del arte han logrado realizar una re-lectura, una re-interpretación y una re-significación de las ciudada­nías y de las dinámicas sociales emergentes que dotan de sentido su cotidianidad, posibili­tando la aparición de otros mundos, que se oponen a las prácticas de violencia y exclusión legitimadas históricamente en Colombia.
Paro nacional, protesta social y las mitologías nacionales: los hombres entigrecidos y el estallido social
Authors: CiudadPazando Revista
Published: September 2021

Ese documento presenta la transcripción abreviada y corregida de una interesante charla que, partiendo de las ideas consig­nadas en la más reciente publicación del profesor Adrián Serna Dimas, denominada “Los Hombres Entigrecidos, Hecho Colonial, Mitología Nacional y violencia en la cuenca media del río Magdalena Colombia”, discute el aterrizaje de los planteamientos teóricos del invitado respecto a la coyun­tura nacional devenida del Paro Nacional en Colombia del año 2021. Un diálogo que permite abrir el debate sobre aquellas construcciones simbólicas que se alojan en la mitología nacional como pretexto para una violencia de la cual pa­rece que el país no puede escapar: el Hombre Entigrecido como avatar del indio bravío, salvaje y violento.
Paisajes Inadvertidos: Miradas de la Guerra en Bogotá
Authors: Guzmán Grandas Sara Gineth
Published: September 2021

En esta reseña se aborda el libro “Paisajes inadvertidos. Miradas de la guerra en Bogotá”, publicado por el Centro de Memoria, Paz y Recon­ciliación de la Alcaldía Mayor de Bogotá - CMPR en el año 2019, en el cual se exponen cuatro historias desarro­lladas en la capital del país, con el propósito de analizar los impactos del conflicto armado en la ciudad junto con las transformaciones que ha vivido la urbe a causa de la guerra y cómo estas historias e impactos se relacionan con imágenes y paisajes cotidianos en la urbe.
From Constitutional Transitions to the Great National Transition: A Constant and Obstinate Italian Narrative
Authors: Cortese Fulvio
Published: September 2021

The essay aims to illustrate the ways in which Italian literature deals with transitions (constitutional or political). After having clarified the methodological approach, the author identifies and describes in the national literature some historical phases, analysing the trends emerging from the reading of famous novels. In conclusion, some observations are drawn, in which it is highlighted that in the national literature there is a profound awareness of the importance of informal institutional transformations and of the central role of social, moral and economic factors.
Who Watches the Watchmen? Law Diving into “Speaking Clouds”
Authors: Salvadori Luca
Published: September 2021

Comics are an extremely popular, though sometimes underestimated, medium. Yet they are able to convey the image of reality in a potentially infinite variety of genres and styles. Their explicitly fictional approach sends simple and direct messages to the reader, allowing him or her to move into a dimension where original rules, free of superstructures and compromises, apply. In fact, the cultural, political and social interaction between object and subject, which comics inevitably represent, eventually involves the theme of the rule and its relationship with society. The encounter between the comic and the legal often takes place in an almost inevitable and unplanned way and determines a synergy capable of producing original results not only from a narrative point of view. The inherently visual embodiment of the rule ends up enhancing the plot, and the rule’s many expressive potentialities. For this reason, the unusual association between comics and law has also earned the growing and curious attention of the world of the legal profession and may acquire, in the not-too-distant future, a further and absolutely unpredictable possibility of use as an atypical learning tool.
Prenatal Androgen Treatment Does Not Alter the Firing Activity of Hypothalamic Arcuate Kisspeptin Neurons in Female Mice
Authors: Gibson Amanda G. , Jaime Jennifer , Burger Laura L. , Moenter Suzanne M.
Published: September 2021

Neuroendocrine control of reproduction is disrupted in many individuals with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), who present with increased luteinizing hormone (LH), and presumably gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), release frequency, and high androgen levels. Prenatal androgenization (PNA) recapitulates these phenotypes in primates and rodents. Female offspring of mice injected with dihydrotestosterone (DHT) on gestational days 16–18 exhibit disrupted estrous cyclicity, increased LH and testosterone, and increased GnRH neuron firing rate as adults. PNA also alters the developmental trajectory of GnRH neuron firing rates, markedly blunting the prepubertal peak in firing that occurs in three-week (3wk)-old controls. GnRH neurons do not express detectable androgen receptors and are thus probably not the direct target of DHT. Rather, PNA likely alters GnRH neuronal activity by modulating upstream neurons, such as hypothalamic arcuate neurons co-expressing kisspeptin, neurokinin B (gene Tac2), and dynorphin, also known as KNDy neurons. We hypothesized PNA treatment changes firing rates of KNDy neurons in a similar age-dependent manner as GnRH neurons. We conducted targeted extracellular recordings (0.5–2 h) of Tac2-identified KNDy neurons from control and PNA mice at 3wks of age and in adulthood. About half of neurons were quiescent (<0.005 Hz). Long-term firing rates of active cells varied, suggestive of episodic activity, but were not different among groups. Short-term burst firing was also similar. We thus reject the hypothesis that PNA alters the firing rate of KNDy neurons. This does not preclude altered neurosecretory output of KNDy neurons, involvement of other neuronal populations, orin vivonetworks as critical drivers of altered GnRH firing rates in PNA mice.