bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction of Head Movement in 360-Degree Videos Using Attention Model
Authors: Lee Dongwon , Choi Minji , Lee Joohyun
Published: May 2021

In this paper, we propose a prediction algorithm, the combination of Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) and attention model, based on machine learning models to predict the vision coordinates when watching 360-degree videos in a Virtual Reality (VR) or Augmented Reality (AR) system. Predicting the vision coordinates while video streaming is important when the network condition is degraded. However, the traditional prediction models such as Moving Average (MA) and Autoregression Moving Average (ARMA) are linear so they cannot consider the nonlinear relationship. Therefore, machine learning models based on deep learning are recently used for nonlinear predictions. We use the Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) and Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU) neural network methods, originated in Recurrent Neural Networks (RNN), and predict the head position in the 360-degree videos. Therefore, we adopt the attention model to LSTM to make more accurate results. We also compare the performance of the proposed model with the other machine learning models such as Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP) and RNN using the root mean squared error (RMSE) of predicted and real coordinates. We demonstrate that our model can predict the vision coordinates more accurately than the other models in various videos.
The Quality of Life and Satisfaction with Continuous Glucose Monitoring Therapy in Children under 7 Years of Age with T1D Using the rtCGM System Integrated with Insulin Pump—A Caregivers Point of View
Authors: Rusak Ewa , Ogarek Natalia , Wolicka Karolina , Mrówka Anna , Seget Sebastian , Kuźnik Magdalena , Jarosz-Chobot Przemysława
Published: May 2021

Quality of life (QoL) is an important parameter that affects the choice of therapy. Assessment of QoL and satisfaction with therapy using the rtCGM in children with T1D aged < 7 years was conducted. The study group consisted of 38 children with T1D aged < 7 years (34% aged 2–4, 66% aged 5–7 years), HbA1c: 6.53 ± 0.63%, duration of diabetes: 2.6 ± 1.6 years, treated with an rtCGM-augmented insulin pump for 1.92 ± 1.15 years. Two anonymous surveys were conducted: a. PedsQL3.0 diabetes standardized questionnaire—QoL assessment among age groups: 2–4/5–7 years. b. An original survey assessing the CGM use satisfaction. The mean scores in PedsQL3.0: communication 75%, worries 30%, treatment 70%, and problems associated with diabetes 65%. The QoL scale is: 0–19% very low, 20–39% low, 40–59% moderate, 60–79% high, 80–100% very high. The most frequently reported concerns were long-term diabetes complications and prick pain. Satisfaction with CGM use was high (68% in group aged 5–7 and 92% 2–4 years). Twenty-seven (71%) caregivers confirmed the positive effect of CGM on sleep. During the use of rtCGM a high quality of life was reported, and the quality of sleep in their caregivers was increased.
The Third Transitional Identity of Migrant Adolescents. The Case of Hotel House, an Italian Multi-Ethnic Skyscraper-Ghetto
Authors: Fermani Alessandra , Riccioni Ilaria , Vincze Laura , Cingolani Giorgio , Bongelli Ramona
Published: May 2021

The adolescent’s identity achievement is a complex task, even more so if they are migrants living in a particular context of ethnic ghettoization. Hotel House is an enormous, isolated condominium situated on the outskirts of Porto Recanati, a small Italian town. It is a unique reality poorly studied from a social psychological perspective. The present paper aims to measure the perceived levels of self-concept clarity, self-determination, ethnic group identification, relationship with parents, depression and life satisfaction in a group of 91 adolescents (11–19 years; 30% females; 1.5 immigrant’s generation) living in this context. The analysis shows low levels of self-concept clarity and self-determination, especially in female adolescents, quite satisfactory relationships with their parents and medium levels of group identification and life satisfaction. The identification with their ethnic subgroups seems to provide a third transitional identity which works as a temporary link between native country values and host country values. The regression analysis shows significant associations: self-determination is negatively associated with depression and positively associated with the perception of life satisfaction; the father’s closeness is a negative predictor for depression and a positive predictor for life satisfaction; mother’s closeness is negatively associated with depression.
Low-Cost Pavement Management System for Developing Countries
Authors: Khahro Shabir Hussain , Memon Zubair Ahmed , Gungat Lillian , Yazid Muhamad Razuhanafi Mat , Rahim Abdur , Mubaraki Muhammad , Md. Yusoff Nur Izzi
Published: May 2021

Governments face numerous challenges in sustaining road network conditions. This is attributed to road authorities’ shortages of financial and physical infrastructure. As a result, low-cost automated solutions are being pursued to solve these problems and provide people with appropriate road conditions. Several attempts have been made to improve these technologies and incorporate them into a Pavement Management System (PMS) but limited attempts are made for developing countries. This study aimed to design a low-cost pavement management system for flexible pavement maintenance. A detailed literature review has been carried out, followed by a qualitative assessment of the various indicators considered for PMS. The priority ranks of the PMS indicators were made using an Analytical Network Process (ANP) and each rank was validated by a sensitivity assessment test using the Super Decision-Making tool. This paper also provides the conceptual framework for the low-cost PMS, followed by a fishbone diagram of the indicators and sub-indicators. It is concluded that an emergency maintenance plan with an ANP weight of (0.41) is one of the most significant plans for a low-cost PMS, followed by a routine with an ANP weight of (0.39) and periodic maintenance plans with a (0.20) ANP weight. Moreover, the functional indicators with an ANP weight of (0.32) are the most significant indicators for a low-cost PMS, followed by structural (0.26), safety (0.24), and serviceability(0.18) indicators. This model will assist the road planners in making better decisions on pavement maintenance management plans. The model will suggest the pavement sections on a higher priority to be added in the maintenance plans, especially where the maintenance budget is limited.
On Spatially Dependent Risk Preferences: The Case of Nigerian Farmers
Authors: Ambali Omotuyole Isiaka , Areal Francisco Jose , Georgantzis Nikolaos
Published: May 2021

Rice farmers’ attitudes toward risk-taking have been identified as one of the factors affecting investment decisions and wealth accumulation. While existing studies have identified the socio-economic factors driving farmers’ risk attitudes, spatial variables that may correlate with decisions are often ignored in the risk models due to difficulties in measurement. We studied unobserved spatial heterogeneity in farmer’s risk preferences by incorporating spatial dependency into a farmer’s risk preference model. We used data from a survey conducted with Nigerian farmers between March and May 2016. The survey collected information on 2016 farmers’ socio-demographic characteristics and farm attributes including its geographical location as well as information on the quality of roads. In addition, a set of experiments design to elicit famers’ attitudes toward risk were conducted. We estimated a spatial autoregressive model using the instrumental variable method. We found that unobserved spatial heterogeneity (e.g., soil, topographic farmers emulating each other) was present in farmer’s risk preferences along with socio-demographic variables such as age, gender, marital status, and religion and farm characteristics such as farm size and road quality. These results are relevant for policy decision-making processes.
Credit Constraint and Rural Household Welfare in the Mezam Division of the North-West Region of Cameroon
Authors: Atamja Louis , Yoo Sungjoon
Published: May 2021

The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of the rural household’s head and household characteristics on credit accessibility. This study also seeks to investigate how credit constraint affects rural household welfare in the Mezam division of the North-West region of Cameroon. Using data from a household survey questionnaire, we found that 36.88% of the households were credit-constrained, while 63.13% were unconstrained. A probit regression model was used to examine the determinants of households’ credit access, while an endogenous switching regression model was used to analyze the impact of credit constraint on household welfare. The results from the probit regression model indicate the importance of the farmer’s or trader’s organization membership, occupation, and savings to the household’s likelihood of being credit-constrained. On the other hand, a prediction from the endogenous switching regression model confirms that households with access to credit have a better standard of welfare than a constrained household. From the results, it is necessary for the government to subsidize microfinance institutions, so that they can take on the risk of offering credit to rural households.
Corporate Social Responsibility, Sustainability, Sustainable Development and Corporate Sustainability: What Is the Difference, and Does It Matter?
Authors: Sheehy Benedict , Farneti Federica
Published: May 2021

The terms “corporate social responsibility” (CSR), “sustainability”, “sustainable development” and “corporate sustainability” (CS) are critical terms for developing, analysing and evaluating public and private policy goals. These terms are used to make decisions about investment, policy development, and strategy creation. The terms emerged in different fields of endeavour at different points in time. Accordingly, they have different meanings; however, over time they have come to be used interchangeably mixing up policy agendas, confusing managers, regulators, activists and the public at large. We demonstrate that CSR is the best term for focusing on individual business organisations, “corporate sustainability” is an organisation level environmental policy, “sustainable development” is a public policy, and “sustainability” is the broadest term encompassing global local and organisational levels.
A Descriptive Analytical Study on Physical Activity and Quality of Life in Sustainable Aging
Authors: Figueira Helena Andrade , Figueira Olivia Andrade , Corradi-Perini Carla , Martínez-Rodríguez Alejandro , Figueira Alan Andrade , da Silva Carlos Roberto Lyra , Dantas Estelio Henrique Martin
Published: May 2021

Physical activity (PA) improves the quality of life (QOL) of older people, increasing overall health and well-being and enabling them to take control over their own lives, and is highly correlated with sustainable aging. Objective: To relate the practice of PA with QOL for sustainable aging. Method: The sample of this cross-sectional inquiry analytical observational ex post facto research was composed of 690 community-dwelling older people of both genders, non-selected volunteers, living in Brazil, present at a road run in Rio de Janeiro, from 30 October 2019 to 12 March 2020, that answered an instrument starting with profile questions, followed by selected questions on QOL from world health organization quality of life for old age (WHOQOL-Old) and on PA from Baecke-Old. Results: The mean age bracket was 65–69 years, 73.6% female. This sample was characterized as active (84%), having university level education (75%), fitting the concept of a high level of QOL (73.35 ± 12.6). QOL was distributed as: 562 (81.2%) at 70–100%; 123 (17.9%) at 41–69%; 5 (0.7%) at 32–40%. Between active and sedentary lifestyle and QOL, the sedentary lifestyle presented a lower QOL score while the active QOL score was highest, with a correspondence with p < 0.001, DF = 2, with 99.9% certainty and Pearson’s chi-square test critical value = 19.2. Conclusion: The sample of older people characterized by high QOL and PA with a university level education suggests the triangulation between advanced education, PA and QOL. The QOL of the older people with high scores was associated with the practice of PA, and low scores were associated with a sedentary lifestyle; this conclusion can be applied to sustainable aging of general society.
Livestock Trails as Keystone Structural Connectors for Pastureland Analysis Based on Remote Sensing and Structural Connectivity Assessment
Authors: Gutiérrez Javier , Velázquez Javier , Rodríguez Jacobo , Hernando Ana , Gómez Inmaculada , Herráez Fernando , López-Sánchez Aida
Published: May 2021

This paper presents a methodology to study the connectivity that livestock trails can offer to guarantee the transit of organisms and access to pasturelands. In this regard, a connectivity analysis was carried out in two scenarios: Basic Scenario (Scenario 1: pasture) and Extended Scenario (Scenario 2: pasture + livestock trails) by using the Morphological Spatial Pattern Analysis (MSPA). The result of structural connectivity analysis, MSPA, showed that livestock trails reduce the fragmentation of the optimal terrain (pasturelands) for livestock activity, since the effective corridors are more numerous, and the edge effect is also reduced. Therefore, MSPA analysis allows the classification of any landscape typology at the pixel level and mapping of corridor structures (connecting elements) and other categories of spatial patterns on a continental scale. The results of the study show the importance of carrying out this type of analysis in different times of the year, detecting the evolution of connectivity throughout the year. Spring months and larger areas of pastureland offer the best conditions for the movements of organisms. This study aims to provide useful information for landscape or territorial planning, and it could be used to improve the management of wildlife dependent on high quality pastures, as well as to promote the management of semi-extensive livestock.
New Results on Qualitative Behavior of Second Order Nonlinear Neutral Impulsive Differential Systems with Canonical and Non-Canonical Conditions
Authors: Santra Shyam Sundar , Khedher Khaled Mohamed , Nonlaopon Kamsing , Ahmad Hijaz
Published: May 2021

The oscillation of impulsive differential equations plays an important role in many applications in physics, biology and engineering. The symmetry helps to deciding the right way to study oscillatory behavior of solutions of impulsive differential equations. In this work, several sufficient conditions are established for oscillatory or asymptotic behavior of second-order neutral impulsive differential systems for various ranges of the bounded neutral coefficient under the canonical and non-canonical conditions. Here, one can see that if the differential equations is oscillatory (or converges to zero asymptotically), then the discrete equation of similar type do not disturb the oscillatory or asymptotic behavior of the impulsive system, when impulse satisfies the discrete equation. Further, some illustrative examples showing applicability of the new results are included.
Calculation of the Statistical Properties in Intermittency Using the Natural Invariant Density
Authors: Elaskar Sergio , del Río Ezequiel , Lorenzón Denis
Published: May 2021

We use the natural invariant density of the map and the Perron–Frobenius operator to analytically evaluate the statistical properties for chaotic intermittency. This study can be understood as an improvement of the previous ones because it does not introduce assumptions about the reinjection probability density function in the laminar interval or the map density at pre-reinjection points. To validate the new theoretical equations, we study a symmetric map and a non-symmetric one. The cusp map has symmetry about x=0, but the Manneville map has no symmetry. We carry out several comparisons between the theoretical equations here presented, the M function methodology, the classical theory of intermittency, and numerical data. The new theoretical equations show more accuracy than those calculated with other techniques.
User Experience Evaluation in Intelligent Environments: A Comprehensive Framework
Authors: Ntoa Stavroula , Margetis George , Antona Margherita , Stephanidis Constantine
Published: May 2021

‘User Experience’ (UX) is a term that has been established in HCI research and practice, subsuming the term ‘usability’. UX denotes that interaction with a contemporary technological system goes far beyond usability, extending to one’s emotions before, during, and after using the system and cannot be defined only by studying the fundamental usability attributes of effectiveness, efficiency and user satisfaction. Measuring UX becomes a substantially more complicated endeavor when the interaction target is not just a technological system or application, but an entire intelligent environment and the systems contained therein. Motivated by the imminent need to assess, measure and quantify user experience in intelligent environments, this paper presents a methodological and conceptual framework that provides concrete guidance for UX research, design and evaluation, explaining which UX parameter should be measured, how, and when. An evaluation of the framework indicated that it can be valuable for researchers and practitioners, assisting them in planning, carrying out, and analyzing UX studies in a comprehensive and thorough manner, thus enhancing their understanding and improving the experiences they design for intelligent environments.
Experimental Methods to Study the Pathogenesis of Human Enteric RNA Viruses
Authors: Aggarwal Somya , Hassan Ebrahim , Baldridge Megan T.
Published: May 2021

Every year, millions of children are infected with viruses that target the gastrointestinal tract, causing acute gastroenteritis and diarrheal illness. Indeed, approximately 700 million episodes of diarrhea occur in children under five annually, with RNA viruses norovirus, rotavirus, and astrovirus serving as major causative pathogens. Numerous methodological advancements in recent years, including the establishment of novel cultivation systems using enteroids as well as the development of murine and other animal models of infection, have helped provide insight into many features of viral pathogenesis. However, many aspects of enteric viral infections remain elusive, demanding further study. Here, we describe the different in vitro and in vivo tools available to explore different pathophysiological attributes of human enteric RNA viruses, highlighting their advantages and limitations depending upon the question being explored. In addition, we discuss key areas and opportunities that would benefit from further methodological progress.
Activation of the STAT3 Signaling Pathway by the RNA-Dependent RNA Polymerase Protein of Arenavirus
Authors: Wang Qingxing , Xin Qilin , Shang Weijuan , Wan Weiwei , Xiao Gengfu , Zhang Lei-Ke
Published: May 2021

Arenaviruses cause chronic and asymptomatic infections in their natural host, rodents, and several arenaviruses cause severe hemorrhagic fever that has a high mortality in infected humans, seriously threatening public health. There are currently no FDA-licensed drugs available against arenaviruses; therefore, it is important to develop novel antiviral strategies to combat them, which would be facilitated by a detailed understanding of the interactions between the viruses and their hosts. To this end, we performed a transcriptomic analysis on cells infected with arenavirus lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV), a neglected human pathogen with clinical significance, and found that the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway was activated. A further investigation indicated that STAT3 could be activated by the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase L protein (Lp) of LCMV. Our functional analysis found that STAT3 cannot affect LCMV multiplication in A549 cells. We also found that STAT3 was activated by the Lp of Mopeia virus and Junin virus, suggesting that this activation may be conserved across certain arenaviruses. Our study explored the interactions between arenaviruses and STAT3, which may help us to better understand the molecular and cell biology of arenaviruses.
Immunopotentiating and Delivery Systems for HCV Vaccines
Authors: Andrianov Alexander K. , Fuerst Thomas R.
Published: May 2021

Development of preventive vaccines against hepatitis C virus (HCV) remains one of the main strategies in achieving global elimination of the disease. The effort is focused on the quest for vaccines capable of inducing protective cross-neutralizing humoral and cellular immune responses, which in turn dictate the need for rationally designed cross-genotype vaccine antigens and potent immunoadjuvants systems. This review provides an assessment of the current state of knowledge on immunopotentiating compounds and vaccine delivery systems capable of enhancing HCV antigen-specific immune responses, while focusing on the synergy and interplay of two modalities. Structural, physico-chemical, and biophysical features of these systems are discussed in conjunction with the analysis of their in vivo performance. Extreme genetic diversity of HCV-a well-known hurdle in the development of an HCV vaccine, may also present a challenge in a search for an effective immunoadjuvant, as the effort necessitates systematic and comparative screening of rationally designed antigenic constructs. The progress may be accelerated if the preference is given to well-defined molecular immunoadjuvants with greater formulation flexibility and adaptability, including those capable of spontaneous self-assembly behavior, while maintaining their robust immunopotentiating and delivery capabilities.
Development of a Vaccine against Human Cytomegalovirus: Advances, Barriers, and Implications for the Clinical Practice
Authors: Scarpini Sara , Morigi Francesca , Betti Ludovica , Dondi Arianna , Biagi Carlotta , Lanari Marcello
Published: May 2021

Human cytomegalovirus (hCMV) is one of the most common causes of congenital infection in the post-rubella era, representing a major public health concern. Although most cases are asymptomatic in the neonatal period, congenital CMV (cCMV) disease can result in permanent impairment of cognitive development and represents the leading cause of non-genetic sensorineural hearing loss. Moreover, even if hCMV mostly causes asymptomatic or pauci-symptomatic infections in immunocompetent hosts, it may lead to severe and life-threatening disease in immunocompromised patients. Since immunity reduces the severity of disease, in the last years, the development of an effective and safe hCMV vaccine has been of great interest to pharmacologic researchers. Both hCMV live vaccines—e.g., live-attenuated, chimeric, viral-based—and non-living ones—subunit, RNA-based, virus-like particles, plasmid-based DNA—have been investigated. Encouraging data are emerging from clinical trials, but a hCMV vaccine has not been licensed yet. Major difficulties in the development of a satisfactory vaccine include hCMV’s capacity to evade the immune response, unclear immune correlates for protection, low number of available animal models, and insufficient general awareness. Moreover, there is a need to determine which may be the best target populations for vaccine administration. The aim of the present paper is to examine the status of hCMV vaccines undergoing clinical trials and understand barriers limiting their development.
Maternal Vaccination in Uganda: Exploring Pregnant Women, Community Leaders and Healthcare Workers’ Perceptions
Authors: Nalubega Phiona , Karafillakis Emilie , Atuhaire Lydia , Akite Pamela , Zalwango Flavia , Chantler Tracey , Cochet Madeleine , Seeley Janet , Le Doare Kirsty
Published: May 2021

Background: We investigated pregnant women, community leaders, healthcare workers (HCWs) and programme managers’ perceptions of maternal vaccination in Kampala, Uganda. Methods: We conducted focus group discussions, key informant interviews and in-depth discussions with HCWs (3), community leaders (3), pregnant women (8) and programme managers (10) between November 2019 and October 2020. Data were analysed thematically. Results: Pregnant women, community leaders and some HCWs had limited maternal immunisation knowledge. There was confusion over what constitutes a vaccine. Pregnant women may not receive vaccines because of mistrust of government; use of expired vaccines; reliance on traditional medicine; religious beliefs; fear of side effects; HCWs attitudes; and logistical issues. The key facilitators of maternal vaccination were a desire to prevent diseases, positive influences from HCWs and information about vaccine side effects. Community leaders and some pregnant women highlighted that pregnant women do not make decisions about maternal vaccination independently and are influenced by different individuals, including other pregnant women, older people, partners, relatives (parents), community leaders, HCWs and the government. Conclusions: Our results indicate that public health messaging should target all community members, including partners and parents of pregnant women as well as HCWs, to improve knowledge of and confidence in maternal vaccines.
Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine Tolerance in Allergic versus Non-Allergic Individuals
Authors: Nittner-Marszalska Marita , Rosiek-Biegus Marta , Kopeć Agnieszka , Pawłowicz Robert , Kosińska Magdalena , Łata Aleksandra , Szenborn Leszek
Published: May 2021

Individuals with a history of allergy are potentially at risk of suffering from adverse effects after COVID-19 vaccination. We sought to assess the tolerance towards the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine in allergic patients. To address this issue, we used a questionnaire conducted on-line in a group of medical professionals who were vaccinated with the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. A total of 1808 respondents, out of whom 1707 received two doses of the vaccine, returned the questionnaire. Local reactions after injection were more frequent in allergic individuals after both doses (swelling p = 0.0003). Systemic adverse events (AE-SYS) occurred more often after the second than the first dose in both groups (allergic persons: 77.29% vs. 41.06%); vomiting and arthralgia occurred more often in allergic subjects (p = 0.0009). AE-SYS in allergic individuals lasted longer than in non-allergic ones after the first (p = 0.01) and the second dose (p = 0.0009). Allergic reactions after vaccination were reported more frequently in allergic subjects: after the first dose (p = 0.00001) and after the second dose (p = 0.001). Rhinitis was the most frequent symptom observed more often in allergic patients. No severe allergic reactions occurred during the full cycle of vaccination. Although the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is tolerated worse by allergic than non-allergic individuals, the occurring adverse symptoms are mild and do not preclude a successful completion of the vaccination cycle. The presence of symptoms suggestive of allergy does not constitute a condition of increased risk of developing clinically significant adverse events following Pfizer COVID-19 vaccination.
Performance Comparison of Vertical Flow Treatment Wetlands Planted with the Ornamental Plant Zantedeschia aethiopica Operated under Arid and Mediterranean Climate Conditions
Authors: Vera-Puerto Ismael , Escobar Joyce , Rebolledo Francisca , Valenzuela Valeria , Olave Jorge , Tíjaro-Rojas Rocío , Correa Christian , Arias Carlos
Published: May 2021

This work compares the performance of vertical subsurface flow treatment wetlands (VSSF TWs) for wastewater treatment, planted with Zantedeschia aethiopica (Za), here operated simultaneously under two different climate conditions, arid and Mediterranean. The experimental setup was divided into two treatment lines for each climate condition: three VSSF TWs planted with Schoenplectus californicus (Sc) (VSSF-S), as the control, and three VSSF TWs planted with Zantedeschia aethiopica (Za) (VSSF-Z), as the experimental unit. The four treatment systems were operated at a hydraulic loading rate of 120 mm/d during spring and summer seasons, in two locations, Iquique (Atacama Desert, Chile) and Talca (Central Valley, Chile). The water quality in effluents, plant development, and water balance were used as performance measures. In terms of the water quality, the influents’ characteristics were similar in both climates and classified as “diluted”. For the effluents, in both climate conditions, average COD and TSS effluent concentrations were below 50 mg/L and 15 mg/L, respectively. In both climate conditions, average TN and TP effluent concentrations were below 40 mg/L and 2 mg/L, respectively. Furthermore, only total nitrogen (TN) and total phosphorus (TP) in effluents to VSSF-Z had a significant effect (p < 0.05) in relation to the climate condition. Regarding plant development, Za showed a lower height growth in both climate conditions, with arid consistently 0.3 m and Mediterranean decreasing from 0.6 m to 0.2 m. However, the physiological conditions of the leaves (measured by chlorophyll content) were not affected during operation time in both climates. Water balance showed that it was not influenced by the climate conditions or plant, with water loss differences below 5%. Therefore, taking into account the water quality and water balance results, Zantedeschia aethiopica can be used in VSSF TWs in a way similar to traditional plants under arid and Mediterranean climates. However, its use has to be carefully considered because lower height could affect the esthetics for its implementation in the VSSF TWs.
Design of ecological masonry piece for non-structural walls
Authors: Mendoza-González Felipe , Córdova-Escobedo Jesús Fausto , Trejo-Molina Francisco de Jesús , Salmeron-Ortiz Mario Raúl
Published: May 2021

In the research work in the methodological aspect, the tongue and groove Block was designed (geometry) in AutoCad, based on the NMX-C-038-ONNCCE-2004 standard; It was included in the material with which the Block was manufactured, crushed polypropylene plastic (PP) to reuse materials that are polluting, and in this way an ecological Block was made, later it was manufactured complying with the NMX-X-159 standard. ONNCCE-2004 the steel mold for the Block. For the analysis and results, a press was used to test the compression pieces established by the NMX-C-441-ONNCCE-2013 Standard for non-structural blocks. In the laboratory, the initial water absorption test was carried out with the NMX-C-037-ONNCCE-2005 in three pieces of blocks, in addition, the MATLAB software was used to obtain the effort-time graphs of the pieces of block with the different dosages of recycled plastic material. The research concludes that the reuse of polypropylene plastic to make blocks will help reduce environmental pollution. The results of the compression tests were satisfactory for non-structural blocks. The initial maximum water absorption tests to which the blocks were subjected, comply for exterior and interior walls.
Principals’ Demographic Qualities and the Misuse of School Material Capital in Secondary Schools
Authors: Owan Valentine Joseph , Osim Roseline O. , Liwhuliwhe James Unimke , Edoho Glory Emmanuel , Onabe Deborah Bombum , Ibor Inah Offor , Owan Mercy Valentine
Published: May 2021

Previous studies tend to assess principals' demographic variables but also use other dependent variables, such as administrative effectiveness, job performance and student achievement. In the literature, principals' demographic qualities and the misuse of material capital have been under-assessed. This study used a quantitative approach to investigate the demographic attributes of principals and the abuse of school material capital in secondary schools. Using a questionnaire, data were gathered from 667 secondary school administrators in Cross River State, Nigeria. The findings revealed significant differences in the misuse of school material capital by principals of different ages, professional qualifications and years of experience. However, major disparities between male and female principals were not identified. More specifically, principals who were older, seasoned, and possessed bachelor's and Master of Education degrees were efficient managers of school material capital. A high rate of misuse was found among principals who were younger and inexperienced than their counterparts who were young, less experienced and possessed a postgraduate diploma in education, as well as other professional academic qualifications unrelated to the field of education (e.g., HND, BSc., BA and MSc.). Based on these findings, key implications for quality service delivery and administrative effectiveness were discussed.
Species Composition of Microbiota in City Buses
Authors: Belova IV , Tochilina AG , Solovyeva IV , Gelashvili DB , Zaznobina NI , Zhirnov VA , Molodtsova SB
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Regulatory documents of the Russian sanitary legislation provide no standardization of microbiological indicators for urban public transportation. At the same time, extensive studies of public transport microbiome conducted in different countries demonstrated that the external environment (stations and platforms) and the interior of vehicles contain a large number of various microorganisms, the number of which is independent of air temperature, route duration, or the number of passengers. The objective of our work was to study the species composition of microbiota in urban buses and to assess its structure using methods of synecological and epidemiological analysis. Methods: We analyzed wipe samples from generally accessible bus interior surfaces. In total, 41 buses of 16 routes from three conditional groups (“Nagornaya” (Upland), “Zarechnaya” (Transverse) and “Interdistrict”) were examined. We applied methods of classical bacteriology, MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry for microorganism identification, and synecological analysis. Results and discussion: We identified 85 types of microorganisms, 15 of which were found in all groups of routes. The bus microbiota followed the same ecological laws as natural microbiocenoses. The greatest number of species was represented by genera Staphylococcus (16), Acinetobacter (11), Bacillus (11), Pseudomonas (8), and Pantoea (5). The majority of identified microorganisms belonged to genera Acinetobacter, Enterobacter, and Pantoea. Among 15 species of microorganisms “common” to three groups of buses, 60 % were representatives of human microbiota. Microorganisms were found in large quantities on fabric seat backs (up to 18,600 CFU/cm3), seat back handles (up to 76,500 CFU/cm3), leather loop-holders (up to 6,400 CFU/cm3), and visually dirty surfaces (11,200 CFU/cm3). Conclusions: Our findings indicate the need to standardize microbiological indicators and develop guidelines for monitoring the efficiency of disinfection of interiors of public passenger vehicles.
Relationship between the three dimensions of institutes required for entrepreneurship development
Authors:   School of Management Sciences, Central University of Jharkhand, Ranchi, India, Sonkar Saurabh , Kumar Sarkar Ashoke ,   School of Management Sciences, Central University of Jharkhand, Ranchi, India
Published: May 2021

Purpose: The study was conducted to formulate the relationship between the three dimensions of institutes, namely cognitive, regulative and, normative dimensions of institutes. The model was formulated using SmartPLS 3. Research Methodology: In this study, the Five-point Likert scale was used and the data were collected from postgraduate students in two states of Uttar Pradesh and Jharkhand. SmartPLS 3 was used to formulate the model and establish the relationship between the three dimensions of institutes. Results: There exists a positive relationship between "Cognitive dimension and normative dimension"; "Regulative dimensions and Cognitive dimensions; and between Regulative dimensions and Normative dimensions" respectively of institutes. Limitations: Study is conducted on a small sample of 100 postgraduate students from two states of India namely Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh which may decrease the reliability of the study. Contribution: In this study, a relationship is established by using smart PLS 3 between the three dimensions of institutes required for entrepreneurship development with the help of Likert scale developed based on previous studies which can help in measuring the country institutional profile and provide the base for studying the role of these dimension of the institute in entrepreneurial intention growth among the postgraduate students in states of India.
Optimalisasi Prestasi Akademis Berbasis Hipnosis
Authors:   Dosen Fakultas Ekonomi dan Bisnis, Universitas Budi Luhur, Jakarta Selatan, Puspaningtyas Faeni dewi , Puspitaningtyas Faeni Ratih ,   Dosen Fakultas Ekonomi dan Bisnis, Universitas Budi Luhur, Jakarta Selatan, Fuji Oktaviani Retno ,   Dosen Fakultas Ekonomi dan Bisnis, Universitas Budi Luhur, Jakarta Selatan, Safitra Hidayat Ravindra ,   Dosen Fakultas Ekonomi dan Bisnis, Universitas Budi Luhur, Jakarta Selatan, Meidiyustiani Rinny ,   Dosen Fakultas Ekonomi dan Bisnis, Universitas Budi Luhur, Jakarta Selatan, Anggi Gumilang Dendi ,   Dosen Program Studi Manajemen, Universitas Mercu Buana, Jakarta Barat
Published: May 2021

Purpose: Optimization of academic achievement based on Hypno-education aims to improve achievement using the hypnosis method, namely the subconscious power method. This methodology uses the power of suggestion to the theta waves in the student's subconscious mind. The achiever personality is inserted into the theta wave. The population of participants is students majoring in Management in Good Corporate Governance at the IPMI International Business School Campus of 72 schools. Students sit quietly in the lecture chair starting with fun things such as eye exercises, brain exercises, motoric movements and then calm with the aim of ice breaking, so that the atmosphere is conducive and not tense. Conducive conditions that are not tense will lead to a pleasant atmosphere so that the brain is open to being flexible when good suggestions are inserted. When the students are bowed down in a sleepy condition or half asleep and half awake, the next story is stimulated by theta music. This condition is the condition of the students' brains very ready for positive suggestions. The main objective is for students who are active in studying, do not receive lessons, and continuously return to the study table to pay more attention to their lessons. Method: This Community Service is the 10th time this activity has collected data on student achievement results before and after therapy. The data tabulation of the Mid-Semester Examination values (UTS) or Final Semester (UAS) before and after hypnosis therapy is an indica tor that believes in hypno-education. Results: The results of student achievement increased sharply in their academic achievement
A COMPARATIVE STUDY ON COMPLICATIONS OF EMERGENCY AND ELECTIVE TRACHEOSTOMY IN ENT DEPARTMENT OF DMCH, LAHERIASARAI, BIHAR
Authors: Md. Ozair Md. Ozair , Ansari Md. Ale Imran , Ahmad Rizwan , Jana Debarshi
Published: May 2021

Background: Both elective and emergency tracheostomy as life saving procedure is frequently performed. Tracheostomy can be associated with numerous (intraoperative and postoperative) complications. Methods: In this study 120 patients were studied age ranged from 9 years to 79 years in the Department of ENT, Darbhanga Medical College & Hospital, Laheriasarai, Bihar from January 2020 to December 2020. Results: Among 120 tracheostomized patients, 75 (62.5%) were patients of emergency tracheostomy group and 45 (37.5%) were patients of elective tracheostomy group. Laryngeal carcinoma and other head-neck malignancy were the common (67.34%) indications for emergency tracheostomy. Maxillofacial and laryngeal surgery (50.1%) was the common indications for elective tracheostomy. Haemmorage was the most common complication. The second most common complication were subcutaneous surgical emphysema and wound infection. Then the tube displacement, perichondritis and stomal stenosis/ granulation tissue formation were the complications. In all stages (intraoperative, immediate postoperative, early postoperative and late postoperative), the frequency of complications was more in emergency tracheostomy and it was statistically signicant (p<0.05). Conclusion: Complications are more in emergency than elective tracheostomy. Reduction of complications should be aim of all types of tracheostomy.
Long-term proton pump inhibitor use and the incidence of gastric cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ju-Li Lin  , Jian-Xian Lin  , Chao-Hui Zheng  , Jian-Wei Xie  , Jia-bin Wang  , Jun Lu  , Qi-Yue Chen  , Long-long Cao  , Mi Lin  , Ping Li  , Chang-Ming Huang
Published: May 2021

Background: There are controverted whether the long-term use of proton pump inhibitors (PPI) will increase the risk of gastric cancer. We performed a meta-analysis to assess the risk of gastric cancer in PPI users compared with non-PPI users. Methods: The main inclusion criteria were original studies reporting the incidence of gastric cancer in PPI users compared with non-PPI users. Key outcomes were the risk ratios (RR) for gastric cancer in association with PPI users or non-PPI users. Results: We analyzed data from 8 studies, comprising more than 927,684 patients. The risk of gastric cancer in PPI users was significantly higher than in non-PPI users [RR= 2.10, 95% CI (1.17-3.97)]. The risk of gastric cancer was similar between the 2 groups when the duration was ≤1 year [RR= 2.18, 95% CI (0.66-7.11)]. While the risk of gastric cancer for PPI users was higher than in non-PPI users when the duration was between 1-3 years, ≥1 year, ≥3 years and ≥5 years. The risk of non-cardiac gastric cancer for PPI users was higher than for non-PPI users [RR= 2.66, 95% CI (1.66 -4.27)], and the risk of non-cardiac gastric cancer for PPI users was higher than for non-PPI users when the duration ≥1 year [RR= 1.99, 95% CI (1.03-3.83)], but the risk for cardiac gastric cancer was similar between the 2 groups [RR= 1.86, 95% CI (0.71-4.89)]. Conclusions: We found the long-term use of PPI (duration ≥1 year) was significantly associated with a higher risk of non-cardiac gastric cancer.
The effect of ERAS management in gastric cancer: assessment from the IMIGASTRIC study
Authors: Francesco Giovanardi  , Francesco Falbo  , Chiara Celano  , Michele Casella  , Marco Palisi
Published: May 2021

Background: Establish protocols to enhance the surgical management (ERAS) can improve outcomes, shortening hospital stay and save resources. Several studies have carried out for colorectal surgery, while a lack of evidence for gastrectomy remains.This study aims to evaluate the impact of ERAS strategies in a large series of patients underwent gastric cancer surgery. Methods: This is a propensity score-matched case-control study, comparing an ERAS group with a control group. Data were recorded through a tailored and protected web-based system. Primary outcomes: hospital stay, complications rate. Among the secondary outcomes, there are: POD of mobilization, POD of starting liquid diet and soft solid diet. Results: Patients in the ERAS and control groups were 1:1 matched by the closest propensity score on the logit scale and with a Caliber = 0.2. The successful matching resulted in a total sample of 440 patients. The two groups showed no differences in all baseline patients characteristics, type of surgery (P=0.31) and stage of the disease (P=0.61). A benefit in favor of the ERAS management was found in the length of hospital stay (P=0.0004) and complications rate (P=0.001). Conclusion: An ERAS program can safely be established in referral centers for gastric cancer, enabling to significantly improve the main clinical outcomes.
La libertà viene prima. La libertà come posta in gioco nel conflitto sociale
Authors: Trentin Bruno
Published: May 2021

"What is left of socialism ?" This question, too, must be answered in a "project left." Certainly, socialism is no longer an accomplished or well-known model of society to tend tothrough daily political action. It can only be conceived as an uninterrupted search for the liberation of the person and his capacity for self-realization. It should be possible introducing elements of socialism into concrete society such as: equal opportunities, community welfare, control over the organization of work, the diffusion of knowledge as an instrument of freedom. This would overcome, from time to time, the contradictions and failures of capitalism and the market economy, making the person, and not only the classes, the keystone of civil coexistence. (From the cover of the first edition).
Modelling of Input Parameters for Power Generation using Regression Models
Authors: Agbondinmwin U. , Ebhojiaye R.S.
Published: May 2021

In this study, multiple linear regression models were employed in the correlation of gas supply and power generation using a gas Power Plant in Niger Delta, Nigeria as a Case study. From the analysis based on outlier detection, reliability analysis and test of homogeneity, it was observed that the independent variable data such as ambient temperature, gas pressure and compressed temperature failed normality test. Therefore, the use of any linear model for either analysis or modelling of the data was not acceptable. Data used for reliability analysis of the gas pressure and compressed temperature difference were positively correlated with power generation, having a covariance value of 0.639 and 113.148. The ambient temperature was negatively correlated with power generation, having a covariance value of 14.564. The positive value showed that both dimensions exclusively increased and decreased together with respect to the output while the negative value showed that increment in value of one variable led to decrease in the value of the other, and vice versa.
THE LEBANESE CIVIL WAR AND THE SYRIAN INTERVENTION IN LEBANON UNTILL 1990,
Authors: Wakim Jamal
Published: May 2021

Este artigo argumenta que, ao contrário da alegação da escola liberal dominante, a Síria não agiu como um desestabilizador do sistema confessional libanês, o que levou ao colapso do sistema e à guerra civil entre 1975 e 1990. Em vez disso, o regime sírio, impulsionado pelo interesses da classe burguesa damascena intimamente associada ao fluxo comercial entre Beirute e a região do Golfo via Damasco, escolheu conter a crise e reabilitar o sistema confessional que é um sistema de hegemonia que impede a luta de classes em benefício da burguesia mercantil libanesa.
The Successful Management of COVID-19 Patient with Severe ARDS Using Standard Therapy
Authors: Hidayat Dian Indriani , Raharjo Sofyan Budi
Published: May 2021

The clinical manifestations of COVID-19 are very diverse. Young patients generally develops mild infection, whereas in older age with various comorbidities, the mortality rate increases. Since SARS-CoV-2 virus is still relatively new, a variety of treatments to manage COVID-19 patients are sought with various treatment effects. Currently there are many antiviral regimens and other drugs as treatment options for COVID-19, but there has been no specific therapy approved by U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This case report described the incidence of severe-critical ARDS in young patients without comorbids, as well as the comparison of successful management of COVID-19 patients with critical manifestations of severe ARDS using standard therapy. This case study compared the clinical and therapeutic similarities and differences in two patients who have successfully recovered from COVID-19 using standard therapy. Both patients were young male with no comorbids. The therapies administered were antivirus, anticoagulant, antibiotic, ventilator, steroid and symptomatic therapy corresponding to clinical condition development. Early case detections, ventilator use with high PEEP strategy, negative liquid balance, symptomatic management and sepsis prevention were factors that support the success of therapy.