bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
QUANTIFYING THE ABOVEGROUND BIOMASS AND CARBON STORAGE OF URBAN TREE SPECIES IN SOKOTO METROPOLIS, NORTH-WESTERN NIGERIA
Authors: Murtala Dangulla , Abd Manaf Latifah , Ramli Mohammed Firuz , Yacob Mohd Rusli , A. Makmom Ahmad
Published: November 2021

Increases in human activities, land use/cover changes and urbanisation have led to continuous accumulation of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, thus threatening the efficiency of natural carbon sinks such as urban trees. This paper assessed the aboveground biomass and carbon stock of trees in Sokoto metropolis, North-Western Nigeria, using an allometric equation. The metropolis was stratified into five broad land use/cover types from which 200 sample plots of 30m × 30m were generated. Data on tree species and diameter at breast height were collected from all trees ? 5cm in diameter within the plots. A total of 722 trees belonging to 30 species in 17 genera and 14 families were identified. The trees stored 854.73 tonnes of biomass equivalent to 427.37 tonnes of carbon with the highest proportion being stored by Azadirachta indica, Mangifera indica, Adansonia digitata, and Ficus polita. There was a significant difference in tree biomass and carbon stock across the land use/cover types (F = 4.730, p < 0.001). The Green Area recorded the highest carbon density of 96.5t ha-1 while Farmland recorded the least carbon density (7.4t ha-1). Urban areas have diverse tree species that could contribute significantly to reducing global atmospheric carbon. This potential, which varies with the species, number, and size of trees, as well as land cover, can be successfully estimated using allometric equations.
INCOME PERSPECTIVE ON THE FACTORS INFLUENCING HOUSEHOLDS’ RECYCLING INTENTION: IMPLICATIONS FROM THE EXTENDED THEORY OF PLANNED BEHAVIOUR
Authors: Khalil Muhammad Salisu , Ming Ho Yuek , Abd Manaf Latifah , Sharaai Amir Hamzah , Nabegu Aliyu Baba
Published: November 2021

Although few studies have attempted to explain residents’ waste handling behaviour from social and psychological perspective, yet, there is little understanding regarding the influence of households’ moral obligation, consequences awareness, and perceived lack of facilitating conditions on forming recycling intention. This study aims at investigating the key determinants of household recycling intention using the extended theory of planned behaviour (TPB). Data collected from 422 households in Kano metropolis were analysed using structural equation modelling to determine the influence of each predictor on the recycling intention. The results indicate that attitude, subjective norms, personal norm, consequences awareness and perceived lack of facilitating conditions significantly predict recycling intention, with attitude being the most significant predictor of households’ intention. Additional analysis on the effect of households’ income level on their recycling intention shows that income level moderates the relationships between attitude and recycling intention, personal norms—recycling intention, and perceived lack of facilitating conditions— recycling intention. The findings provide valuable suggestions for recycling policies that can focus on households’ intention formation by providing recycling facilities, encouraging participation through market-driven recycling programs, and promoting recycling awareness and education.
Implementation of the Flexible Assertive Community Treatment (FACT) Model in Norway: eHealth Assessment Study
Authors: Bønes Erlend , Granja Conceição , Solvoll Terje
Published: November 2021

Background

Flexible Assertive Community Treatment (FACT) is a model for treatment of long-term severe mental disorders. This method has become more widespread in Norway.

Objective

The objective of our study was to examine how the implementation of FACT teams in Norway has been affected by eHealth policy, infrastructure, and regulations. Another objective was to examine existing literature on eHealth interventions and challenges within FACT teams.

Methods

We have examined Norwegian policy regulating mental health services, laws and regulations, eHealth infrastructure, relevant literature on FACT teams, and current implementation of FACT in Norway.

Results

FACT teams are a wanted part of the Norwegian service system, but the current eHealth infrastructure makes sharing of data within teams and levels of health care challenging, even if eHealth regulations allow such sharing. This has been shown to be an issue in the current implementation of FACT teams in Norway. There is little or no existing research on the eHealth challenges facing FACT teams.

Conclusions

Weaknesses in the Norwegian eHealth infrastructure have been a barrier for an easy implementation of FACT teams in Norway. It is difficult to share information between the different levels of health care. We need systems that allow for easy, secure sharing of health information to and between the FACT team members and other involved health care workers.
Hearing Loss in Patients With Morquio Syndrome: Protocol for a Scoping Review
Authors: Diaz-Ordoñez Lorena , Candelo Estephania , Silva-Cuero Katherine , Saldarriaga Wilmar , Murgašová Lenka , Magner Martin , Pachajoa Harry
Published: November 2021

Background

Mild to moderate hearing loss is common in patients with mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) IVA. The hearing loss can be conductive, sensorineural, or mixed. However, in these patients, the mixed form is frequent, attributed to the combination of conductive and neurosensory elements, with slowly progressive evolution. Conductive hearing loss may be secondary to recurrent upper respiratory tract infections, serous otitis media, and deformities of the ear ossicles due to the accumulation of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). Meanwhile, the sensorineural form is mainly attributed to the accumulation of GAGs in the auditory system.

Objective

The aim of this scoping review is to understand the extent and type of evidence in relation to the physiopathology, classification, epidemiology, and clinical management of hearing loss and the effect of therapy for hearing loss in patients with MPS IVA.

Methods

This scoping review includes participants across all genders and of no particular age group who are diagnosed with MPS IVA and develop hearing loss as a comorbidity. No exclusion criteria (country, language, or document type) will be applicable. The information sources will include experimental and quasi-experimental, analytical observational, observational, and qualitative studies. Unpublished literature will not be covered. Grey literature will be covered. A total of 2 independent reviewers will participate in the process of screening the literature, paper selection, and data extraction, and this process will be performed blindly. When all manuscripts have been selected, disagreements that arise between the 2 reviewers at each stage of the selection process will be resolved through discussion or with an additional reviewer. Results will be reported with descriptive statistics and information will be displayed in a diagrammatic or tabular manner, as explained in the JBI guidelines.

Results

The literature search was performed in November 2021 in MEDLINE, LILACS (Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde), the Cochrane Library, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and OpenGrey; a total of 780 results were retrieved. Completion of the review is expected in mid-2022.

Conclusions

This scoping review will be the first to describe the extent of the information regarding the development of hearing loss in the MPS IVA population. The data gathered by this review may lead to an understanding of the grade of hearing loss in this population and allow for the assessment of possible interventions according to the disease pattern.

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

PRR1-10.2196/32986
Remote Monitoring of Patients With Hematologic Malignancies at High Risk of Febrile Neutropenia: Exploratory Study
Authors: Kroloff Maxwell , Ramezani Ramin , Wilhalme Holly , Naeim Arash
Published: November 2021

Background

Febrile neutropenia is one of the most common oncologic emergencies and is associated with significant, preventable morbidity and mortality. Most patients who experience a febrile neutropenia episode are hospitalized, resulting in significant economic cost.

Objective

This exploratory study implemented a remote monitoring system comprising a digital infrared thermometer and a pulse oximeter with the capability to notify providers in real time of abnormalities in vital signs that could suggest early clinical deterioration and thereby improve clinical outcomes.

Methods

The remote monitoring system was implemented and compared to standard-of-care vital signs monitoring in hospitalized patients with underlying hematologic malignancies complicated by a febrile neutropenia episode in order to assess the feasibility and validity of the system. Statistical analysis was performed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) to assess the consistency between the measurements taken using traditional methods and those taken with the remote monitoring system for each of the vital sign parameters (temperature, heart rate, and oxygen saturation). A linear mixed-effects model with a random subject effect was used to estimate the variance components. Bland-Altman plots were created for the parameters to further delineate the direction of any occurring bias.

Results

A total of 23 patients were enrolled in the study (mean age 56, SD 23-75 years; male patients: n=11, 47.8%). ICC analysis confirmed the high repeatability and accuracy of the heart rate assessment (ICC=0.856), acting as a supplement to remote temperature assessment. While the sensitivity and specificity for capturing tachycardia above a rate of 100 bpm were excellent (88% and 97%, respectively), the sensitivity of the remote monitoring system in capturing temperatures >37.8 °C and oxygen saturation <92% was 45% and 50%, respectively.

Conclusions

Overall, this novel approach using temperature, heart rate, and oxygen saturation assessments successfully provided real-time, clinically valuable feedback to providers. While temperature and oxygen saturation assessments lagged in terms of sensitivity compared to a standard in-hospital system, the heart rate assessment provided highly accurate complementary data. As a whole, the system provided additional information that can be applied to a clinically vulnerable population. By transitioning its application to high-risk patients in the outpatient setting, this system can help prevent additional use of health care services through early provider intervention and potentially improve outcomes.
Exploring Empathy and Compassion Using Digital Narratives (the Learning to Care Project): Protocol for a Multiphase Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Ferrari Manuela , Fazeli Sahar , Mitchell Claudia , Shah Jai , Iyer Srividya N
Published: November 2021

Background

Digital stories—first-person, self-made, 2- to 3-minute videos—generate awareness, impart knowledge, and promote understanding on topics such as mental illness. Digital stories are a narrative-based art form often created by individuals without formal training in filmmaking to relate personal experiences. Somewhat like digital narratives, video testimonies created within the social marketing or fundraising campaigns of government agencies and private or public corporations aim to reduce the stigma of mental illness while supporting research and services. In video testimonies, personal stories are captured on camera by professional filmmakers. Sharing critical life events greatly benefits tellers and listeners alike, supporting catharsis, healing, connectiveness, and citizenship.

Objective

This study explores digital stories and video testimonies featuring mental illness and recovery in their ability to elicit empathy and compassion while reducing stigma among viewers.

Methods

Using mixed methods, phase 1 will involve a search of Canadian social marketing activities and fundraising campaigns concerning mental illness and recovery. Phase 2 will involve the organization of digital storytelling workshops in which participants will create digital stories about their own experiences of mental illness and recovery. In phase 3, a pilot randomized controlled trial will be undertaken to compare marketing and fundraising campaigns with digital stories for their impact on viewers, whereas phase 4 will focus on knowledge dissemination.

Results

Ethics approval for this study was received in March 2021. Data on the feasibility of the study design and the results of the controlled trial will be generated. This study will produce new knowledge on effective ways of promoting mental health awareness and decreasing stigma, with practical importance for future social marketing and fundraising campaigns. The anticipated time for completion within the 2-year study period includes 9 months for phase 1 (knowledge synthesis activities identifying social marketing and fundraising campaigns) and phase 2 (storytelling workshops), 11 months for phase 3 (feasibility assessment and data collection: randomized controlled trial), and 2 months for phase 4 (knowledge dissemination).

Conclusions

The knowledge generated will have practical implications for the public and for future social marketing and fundraising campaigns promoted by government agencies as well as nonprofit and for-profit organizations by enhancing our understanding of how individuals and societies respond to stories of mental distress and what prompts citizens to help others.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04881084; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04881084

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

PRR1-10.2196/33525
Self-compassion Education for Health Professionals (Nurses and Midwives): Protocol for a Sequential Explanatory Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Steen Mary , Othman Shwikar Mahmoud Etman , Briley Annette , Vernon Rachael , Hutchinson Steven , Dyer Susan
Published: December 2021

Background

A few recent studies have reported that having the ability to provide self-compassion can reduce health professionals’ levels of anxiety and stress, the risk of compassion fatigue, and burnout, and it can generally improve their well-being. Therefore, there is evidence to support further research into the investigation and exploration of self-compassion education and training for health professionals.

Objective

This study aims to increase the knowledge and understanding of self-compassion and how this may enhance the health and well-being of health professionals.

Methods

The proposed research study will adopt a sequential explanatory mixed methods design. This study will be conducted in 3 phases. Phase 1 will use a pre-educational self-compassion questionnaire (web-based survey) to collect data from participants at 3 time points (before, immediately after, and after follow-up at 6-8 weeks) after they have attended a self-compassion education and training program. Phase 2 will use an interview schedule to explore the participants’ views and experiences through a follow-up focus group or individual interview. Finally, phase 3 will include data integration and dissemination of key findings and recommendations.

Results

This study was approved by the Women’s and Children’s Health Network Human Research Ethics Committee and the Human Research Ethics Committee at the University of South Australia on June 26, 2021 (ID: 204,074). A scoping review was conducted to inform this research study (focusing on nurses and midwives). The preparatory phase was completed in April 2021. Phase 1 is expected to be completed by June 2022 and phase 2 will commence in July 2022.

Conclusions

The key findings from the data integration for this research project will provide in-depth details and insights to broaden the discussion about self-compassion and its influence on health professionals’ health and well-being. Health professionals (nurses and midwives) may benefit from self-compassion education and training programs to improve their health and well-being.

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

PRR1-10.2196/34372
The Effect of “IHAPIM” Program on Health Perceptıons and Health Responsıbılıtıes of Immıgrant Men: A Study Protocol Two- Group Double-Blind RCT (Preprint)
Authors: Korkmaz Mehmet
Published: December 2021

BACKGROUND

Few of the improving men's health programs are based on masculinity values, men's preferences, and interests. Studies show that programs prepared using gender-specific approaches are more effective in men's health and provide more positive contributions to men's health. Addressing the immigrant men's health and male-specific health issues in this program shows that this program is gender-specific.

OBJECTIVE

The study purpose of examining the effect of the “IHAPIM” program on health perceptions, health responsibilities, perceived stress level, attitudes towards utilizing health care services, and the types of coping strategies of immigrant men.

METHODS

We make an effort to report this randomized controlled trial to comply with the SPIRIT. The population size consists of 95 immigrant men who live in the north of Turkey. The study, between March 2020–March 2021, was held in the two districts predominantly immigrants live. The participants were randomly divided into the experimental and control group. The experimental (N = 49) received a short‐term IHAPIM program (5 weeks, 1 hr per week, 10 hr in total). Each group’s intervention performed by researchers. The immigrant men’ health perceptions, health responsibilities, perceived stress level, attitudes towards utilizing health care services, and the types of coping strategies measured before “IHAPIM” program performed and three month after “IHAPIM” program performed. Measurements were obtained during pre-and post‐test from the experimental and control group (N = 46). In this study, participants and statistician who conducted the research blinded.

RESULTS

The results showed that both the levels of health perceptions, health responsibilities, perceived stress level, attitudes towards utilizing health care services, and the types of coping strategies were significantly different between the two study groups (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

This study is anticipated to provide a piece of significant evidence of the health promotion interventions for immigrants men performed by researchers and efficacy of health perceptions, health responsibilities, perceived stress level, attitudes towards utilizing health care services, and the types of coping strategies in immigrant men group. It is assumed that health promotion interventions specific to male gender and sensitivity to immigrants' language lead to beneficial results on health perceptions, health responsibilities, perceived stress level, attitudes towards utilizing health care services, and the types of coping strategies in immigrant men. Suppose the “IHAPIM” program perform in practice by public health nurses. It can be effectively improved immigrant men’s health variables such as health perceptions, health responsibilities, perceived stress level, attitudes towards utilizing health care services, and the types of coping strategies.

CLINICALTRIAL

NCT04831463
Effects of Voki-supported self-practice on high school students’ English speaking performance
Authors: Nguyen Thi Kieu Diem , Nguyen Van Loi
Published: December 2021

Web 2.0 applications with multimedia affordances provide a creative way to expose students to a non-threatening environment for practising English. Motivated by the potentials of this type of application for English speaking instruction, this study aimed to examine the effects of high school learners’ self-practice using an app called Voki on their speaking performance. A quasi-experimental control group design was employed, in which the effect was measured by means of two speaking tests before and after the treatment, and further explored with a semi-structured interview. The results showed the increase in the students’speaking skills and the satisfaction with this Web 2.0 tool for its effectiveness and engagement. Their shyness and nervousness about uttering the target language diminished as their confidence increased. Accordingly, more evidence of the efficacy of Voki on EFL learners’ speaking performance was offered in the study. Future research can investigate learners’ improvement in language proficiency in different skills and contexts and involve larger sample sizes.
Optimization of the encapsulation of the mixture made from flesh and peel pitaya extract by spray drying
Authors: Duong Thi Ngoc Diep , Hoang Quang Binh , Do Le Hanh Trang
Published: December 2021

In this study, the optimal conditions for spray drying of the extract made from flesh and peel of red pitaya were tested using the central composite design (CCD). The response surface methodology was used to evaluate the effect of inlet air drying temperature (145 – 155°C) and concentration of maltodextrin (13-17% w/w) on the physicochemical properties of the powder. The regression models accurately predicted the retention of betacyanin (R2=0.94) and total phenolic (R2=0.95). The optimal conditions for spray drying were determined as inlet air drying temperature at 148  and 14.62% maltodextrin. Under these conditions, the spray-dried powder achieved retention of betacyanin of 68.04% and retention of total phenolic of 84.17%. The optimized sample achieved a moisture content of 4.41%, the water activity of 0.39, and the water solubility index of 97.41%.
Estimating economic value of household municipal solid waste reduction program: A willingness-to-accept (WTA) approach
Authors: Huynh Thi Dan Xuan , Khong Tien Dung , Huynh Viet Khai
Published: December 2021

This study is aimed at estimating economic value of municipal solid waste (MSW) reduction program in the Mekong Delta by employing the willingness-to-accept (WTA) approach. This research will address two important issues in current growing literature about MSW management. First, this is the first research to evaluate economic value of the MSW reduction program in Mekong Delta. The second major contribution is the approach employed - supply curve through the WTA. This program requires community participation and provision incentives to them, therefore the requirement of public acceptance through WTA is estimated. Findings reveal that people are willing to accept an average of 30,000 VND/month for the MSW reduction program. Assume that household's MSW management fee subsidy policy is canceled, and the household is facing a full fee for the MSW collection (about 150,000 VND/month), they are willing to classify MSW at source to get a reduction of 30,000 VND or they are willing to accept a fee of 120,000 VND/month. In addition, it is interesting that more than 70 percent of people are willing to participate in this program. The determinants of WTA identified include the type of MSW at the source, education level, type of urban areas. This research then proposes that MSW management implementation policy should be focused on motivating households and improving people's perception of MSW. In case of government budget deficit, community participation would be more appropriate to manage MSW.
Optimasi Sintesis Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose (HPMC) dari Kulit Koro Pedang Putih (Canavalia ensiformis L. (DC)
Authors: Nopiani Yanti , Murdiati Agnes , Setyaningsih Widiastuti
Published: December 2021

Kulit koro pedang putih dapat digunakan sebagai sumber selulosa. Salah satu alternatif untuk meningkatkan aplikasi selulosa adalah dengan memodifikasi selulosa menjadi produk turunan selulosa yaitu Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose (HPMC). Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah melakukan optimasi terhadap sintesis dan karkaterisasi HPMC dari selulosa kulit koro pedang putih. Proses optimasi didahului dengan kajian literatur untuk menentukan kisaran titik percobaan dengan variabel terikat berupa molar subtitusi (MS) dan Derajat Subtitusi (DS). Diperoleh titik percobaan dengan variasi konsentrasi NaOH (5, 22,5, dan 40%), variasi Dimetil Sulfat (DMS) (40, 80, dan 120%), dan variasi Proilen Oksida (PO) (80, 120, dan 160%). Kemudian optimasi sintesis HPMC dilakukan dengan mengunakan Box-Behnken design (BBD) lalu dianalisis menggunakan Response Surface Methodology (RSM) Berikutnya HPMC dikarakterisasi meliputi molar subtitusi (MS), Derajat Subtitusi (DS), water holding capacity (WHC), oil holding capacity (OHC), lightness, rendemen, kristalinitas dan spektra FT-IR untuk mengetahui gugus fungsi HPMC. Hasil optimasi sintesis HPMC dari selulosa kulit koro pedang putih berdasakan RSM diperoleh titik optimum pada konsentrasi NaOH 23,11%, DMS 43,4% dan PO 81,8%. dengan karakterisasi kadar air 9,04% (wb); MS 0,15; DS 1,18; WHC 2,20 g/g; OHC 2,09 g/g; lightness 90,93; rendemen 114,78% dan kristalinitas 64%. Spektra FT-IR HPMC koro pedang putih terbaca pada bilangan gelombang 2924 cm-1 (CH dan CH2 Streching), 1373 cm-1 (CH3 Bonding), 1118 cm-1 (C-O-C), 1319 cm-1 (O-H Plane Bonding) dan 848, 68 cm-1 (C-O-C pada 1,4 β glikosidic linkage) yang merupakan ciri khas dari gugus fungsional HPMC.
Climate Policy Goes Mainstream A New Priority Distinct from Laissez-faire, Which Supports Welfare and Equity
Authors: Aiginger Karl , Colcuc Arianna
Published: November 2021

The paper analyzes the long pathway of environmental issues from their start as a highly specialized field to becoming part of mainstream economics. The visibility of global warming and the Paris goal to limit global warming have supported this process, along with concepts ranging from externalities to public goods and cost-benefit analysis. However, we see that most countries are not on track towards reaching climate neutrality early enough to prevent disastrous increases of temperature, due to market and policy failures. Instruments to curb global warming, along with their limits and advantages, are analyzed. Strategies in sectors and countries will have to be different. International cooperation must limit negative spillovers, and it has to support learning processes while enforcing synergies. The article concludes that the problem has become mainstream in economics, but nevertheless requires an interdisciplinary approach.
Current situation of feeding and social intervention in Mexico: A critical review / Situación actual de la alimentación e intervención social en México: Una revisión crítica
Authors: Ojeda Sánchez Azucena , Rangel Yepez Caridad , Mecalco Herrera Cecilia
Published: November 2021

AbstractSince socioeconomic and political conditions influence eating behavior, the number of studies and interventions developed in Mexico has increased, where there is a long history of implementing policies and institutional programs aimed at malnutrition. Under this context, the purpose of this review was to analyze the current situation of food interventions implemented in Mexico, with emphasis on the actions of university institutions. The search was carried out at the Scielo, Elsevier and Latindex bases, focusing on the editorial production of the last decade. It was notorious that intersectoral policies and strategies to address malnutrition are far from local interventions, and its impact is not assessed. Biomedical approaches tend to be individualistic and prescriptive-normative; while the social, based on "educate in health", involves essentially informative strategies. Regard studies focused on young university students, exploratory and descriptive approaches predominate, leaving aside health promotion approaches. In general, the efforts made have been operated in isolation, with a predominance of the curative-informative approach rather than preventive and health promotion. Therefore, in order to enrich the understanding of the food phenomenon, it is urgent to resume sociocultural approaches.ResumenDado que las condiciones socioeconómicas y políticas influyen en el comportamiento alimentario, ha incrementado el número de estudios e intervenciones desarrolladas en México, en donde existe una larga historia de implementación de políticas y programas institucionales dirigidos a la malnutrición. Bajo este contexto, el propósito del presente estudio documental fue analizar la situación actual de las intervenciones alimentarias implementadas en México, con énfasis en las acciones de las instituciones universitarias. La búsqueda se realizó en las bases SciELO, Elsevier y Latindex, enfocándose en la producción editorial de la última década. Resultó notorio que las políticas y estrategias intersectoriales para atender la malnutrición están distantes de las intervenciones locales, y sin evaluación de su impacto. Los abordajes biomédicos tienden a ser individualistas y prescriptivos-normativos; mientras que los sociales, que parten de “educar en salud”, supone estrategias esencialmente informativas. En cuanto a los estudios enfocados en jóvenes estudiantes universitarios, predominan las aproximaciones exploratorias y descriptivas, quedando de lado los abordajes de promoción de la salud. En general, los esfuerzos realizados se han operado de manera aislada, con predominio del enfoque curativo-informativo más que preventivo y de promoción de la salud. Por tanto, en vistas de enriquecer la comprensión del fenómeno alimentario, resulta apremiante retomar los enfoques socioculturales.
Molecular Diversity of Bacillus thuringiensis and Bioinformatics Analysis of Local Isolate of Auky Island, Padaido District in Biak Numfor Papua as a Control of Anopheles Mosquito Larvae
Authors: Lantang Daniel , Mawardi Arsyam
Published: November 2021

This research aims to analyze the level of similarity and diversity among local isolates of B. thuringiensis Auky Island Padaido District in Biak Numfor Regency with NCBI gene bank base, the basis of which is to obtain B. thuringiensis isolates from jayapura local isolates that can act as controllers of Anopheles mosquito larvae. Several steps in the research are 16s gene amplification, PCR product purification, cloning using pTA2 vectors and transformation into competent E. coli Zymo 5α cells, confirmation with PCR colonies, recombinant plasmid isolation, sequencing analysis and phylogenetic tree construction. The isolates of ABNP8, ABNP9, ABNP11, ABNP12 and ABNP18 have been detected as local isolates from in Auky Island Padaido District in Biak Numfor Papua Regency that have great potential as bioinsecticides, and capable of controlling and killing Anopheles mosquito larvae. Of the five isolates, ABNP8 isolates had unique diversity and characteristics and were different from the four other isolates. Based on the similarity analysis in the MEGA7 program, the similarity rate reached 84%. Its diversity can be seen from the uniqueness of the sequence and its position in different branching dendrograms.
Prospects of Aloe vera and its Bioactive Compounds in Diabetes: Critical Review
Authors: Sharma Mukesh Kumar , Chauhan Jagat , Kumar Mohan , Joshi Chetan Kumar , Sharma Sandeep , Lal Chhagan
Published: November 2021

Diabetes is a significant public health issue. The global diabetes epidemic has had a tremendous impact on India, and the disease burden has increased dramatically. Diabetes is quickly increasing in prevalence, especially in Indian cities, according to data. Therefore, an ideal drug is sought that has better safety and tolerability and the most effective control of diabetes. Many effective medications come from plant sources. Natural products like onion and garlic can effectively control diabetes. In this review, we should pay attention to Aloe vera and its bioactive compounds, that with the development of traditional medicine, Aloe vera can be used to treat various diseases. Some reports have questioned the safety and efficacy of Aloe vera or its compounds, especially at different doses, and some studies have shown no side effects. In this review we also focus on benefits on human health so that Aloe vera is part of the daily diet in many countries and appears to be non-toxic, it is necessary to investigate whether aloe vera dietary supplement can be a beneficial preventive or nutritional mitigation strategy to reduce the effects of diabetes. This review focuses on Aloe vera and its biologically active compounds that play a role in the treatment or prevention of this morbid disease: diabetes, including its underlying mechanism of blood sugar lowering properties, and herbal products that have been marketed for the treatment of diabetes or the therapeutic effect of diabetes.
Effect of Physico-chemical Parameters on the Population Diversity of Potentially Harmful Micro-algae during Post-monsoon Season along the Malabar Coast
Authors: Sankaranarayanan A. , Poyil Muhammad Musthafa , Karuppiah Ponmurugan , Mohideen Abubucker Peer
Published: November 2021

There are several toxic microalgae species known as Harmful algal bloom (HAB) causing serious effects to the environment and economy. Knowledge on these groups of marine micro-flora is scanty and several areas remain unexplored. The present study focuses on the analysis of microalgal diversity in the Malabar coastal areas at Southwest and Northeast monsoon. The diatoms, dinoflagellates and total microalgal population were analysed and quantified. Predominant species were identified. Physicochemical parameters of the seawater at different time intervals and Correlation between diatoms, dinoflagellates and total microalgae population with physicochemical parameters were identified. From the analysis, a total of 53 diatoms and 15 dinoflagellates were identified. The predominant species including toxic or harmful bloom-forming were found to be Dinophysis caudata, Noctiluca scintillans, Prorocentrum lima and Tripos furca. The total microalgae population varied from 18,592 cells/L to 7,832 cells/L in the months of April and December. Dinoflagellates were positively correlated with salinity (r = 0.848; p = 0.008), nitrite (r = 0.752; p = 0.032) and total phosphorous (r = 0.734, p = 0.038). Diatoms were positively correlated with temperature (r = 0.804; p = 0.016) and nitrate (r = 0.774, p = 0.024). Total microalgal density was positively correlated with temperature (r = 0.825; p = 0.012) and nitrate content (r = 0.811, p = 0.15).
Detection and Real-time PCR Assay for the Quantification of Carbapenemase Gene blablaNDM-1 in Hospital Effluent
Authors: Divyashree M. , Mani Madhu K. , K Shama Prakash
Published: November 2021

This study aims to isolate gram-negative bacteria (GNB) harboring the gene NDM-1 from the tertiary care hospital effluents. Also, aims to evaluate the relative copy number of blaNDM-1 carried by the positive isolates. The study isolated 215 GNB from 40 effluent samples. The antibiotic susceptibility tests for carbapenems were performed using disc diffusion assay. The isolates resistant to either meropenem or imipenem were checked for the existence of MBL by phenotypic methods. The isolates carrying NDM-1 gene were genotypically confirmed by Polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The gene copy number of blaNDM- were determined by quantative real-time PCR. A total of 22 isolates showed phenotypic resistance to carbapenems and were characterized by biochemical methods. Among them, 12 harbored NDM-1 gene by PCR; these bacteria were subjected to qPCR for determining the absolute copy numbers of the NDM-1 gene on it. The gene abundance in the strains was in the range of 3.28× 105 to 6.05× 106 copies/ ng of DNA. Hospital effluents are important pool of antibiotic-resistant bacteria harboring the blaNDM-1 and infections caused by these bacteria are difficult to treat. Hence, the present study stresses the need for stringent antibiotic use and efficient wastewater treatment policies in these hospital settings, which is paramount in achieving sustainable health.
Characterization of Aminoglycoside Modifying Enzymes Producing E. coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae Clinical Isolates
Authors: El-Gebaly Eman , Farrag Mohammed , Dishisha Tarek , Bakeer Walid
Published: November 2021

Antimicrobial resistance gene profile characterization and dissemination offer useful detail on the possible challenge in treating bacteria. The development of aminoglycoside modifying enzymes (AMEs) is considered as the primary mechanism of resistance to aminoglycosides, in addition to the 16S rRNA methylases. This study aimed at isolation and characterization of aminoglycosides resistant clinical isolates of enterobacteriaceae family from different clinical samples. Over a period of 24 months, thirty samples were collected and 49 clinical isolates of E. coli [n=25], Klebsiella [n=13], Enterobacter species (n=7) and Proteus species (n=4) were isolated from Egyptian clinical laboratories. The identities of the cultures were confirmed following standard microbiological procedures. Resistance of the isolates to aminoglycosides was determined by the disc diffusion method and isolates with highest resistance (n=9) were selected and investigated for 16S rRNA methylase and AMES encoding genes by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing. In general, aminoglycoside resistance was found in 95% of the isolates; the isolates displayed the highest rate of resistance to netilmicin (75%) and kanamycin (55%), while resistance to gentamycin (18%) and tobramycin (16%) was low. A total of 9 isolates have the highest aminoglycoside resistant rate, showed the highest appearance for aac(6′)-Ib as well as ant (3″)-Ia resistant genes, with aac (3)-II (44%) and ant (4′)-IIb (34%) following closely. The high prevalence of AMEs observed among resistant isolates in this study suggests the urgent need for more efficient treatment designs to mitigate the selection burden as well as improved care of patients who have been infected with these drug-resistant organisms.
An In-Vitro Study Comparing the Effects of Citrus Lemon Extract on Porphyromonas Gingivalis, Aggregatibacter Actinomycetemcomitans, and Prevotella Intermedia
Authors: Vansia Dr. Shivani
Published: November 2021

Abstract: Plant extracts and phytochemicals having antimicrobial characteristics could be immensely beneficial in medicinal treatments. The present study deals with the effect of Citrus lemon extract over Periodontal pathogens which are primary etiologic factors for periodontal diseases. The current study took into account periodontal pathogens such as Prevotella Intermedia, Aggregatibacter Actinomycetemcomitans, and Porphyromonas Gingivalis. Chlorhexidine is a gold standard antimicrobial agent with a wide antibacterial activity that is commonly used for chemical plaque management. When used for an extended period, however, chlorhexidine is known to stain. As a result, the alternatives are to be explored such as herbal-based agents that can be used regularly. Using the microdilution process and the culture method, the antibacterial effect of citrus lemon extract against periodontal pathogens was assessed using the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), and zone of inhibition (ZOI). According to the findings of this study, citrus lemon extract can be used as a natural supplement for treatment purposes. Keywords: Antimicrobial, Citrus lemon Extract, Chlorhexidine, Periodontal Pathogens.
Minimizing the Cost for Resource Allocation from Multiple Cloud Providers
Authors: Jonnagadla Manasa
Published: November 2021

Abstract: Cloud computing provides streamlined tools for exceptional business efficiency. Cloud service providers typically offer two types of plans: reserved and on-demand. Restricted policies provide low-cost long-term contracting, while order contracts are expensive and ready for short periods. Cloud resources must be delivered wisely to meet current customer demands. Many current works rely on low-cost resource-reserved strategies, which may be under- or over-provisioning. Resource allocation has become a difficult issue due to unfairness causing high availability costs and cloud demand variability. That article suggests a hybrid approach to allocating cloud services to complex customer orders. The strategy was built in two stages: accommodation stages and a flexible structure. By treating each step as an optimization problem, we can reduce the overall implementation cost while maintaining service quality. Due to the uncertain nature of cloud requests, we set up a stochastic Optimization-based approach. Our technique is used to assign individual cloud resources and the results show its effectiveness. Keywords: Cloud computing, Resource allocation, Demand
The Light Houses of Kashmir
Authors: Islam Er. Tajamul
Published: November 2021

Abstract: Home is a basic necessity for everyone and becomes one the critical challenges faced by the developing countries. India is currently facing a shortage of about 17.6 million houses and the situation is no different in Kashmir if not more prominent owing to the geographical and climatic conditions of the valley. Presently in Kashmir, We witness that the Middle income groups, low income groups and economically weaker sections of the society, which are growing in size, are struggling to have their own houses. Concrete and steel housing cost a fortune so low cost and sustainable buildings are much needed in Kashmir. Low Cost Housing’ refers to those housing units which are affordable by that section of society where income is below MHI (Median Housing Income). It includes the use of construction methods that are cost effective, innovative and environment friendly and allow for a speedy construction. The paper deals with the present and the future trends about low cost housing materials and technologies in Kashmir. These technologies & materials, if implemented, can reduce the present housing problems up to some extent. Keywords: AAC, GFRG, filler slabs, SPW, CEB
The Contribution of Lok Sebak Laxminarayan Sahu to Oriya literature
Authors: Nayak Dr. Namita
Published: November 2021

Abstract: The self-conscious poet can also analyze himself, "When will man wake me up and I will become a god." He wants to dedicate himself to the Guru in every moment of his life. The sun and the moon are moving in this world. Everyone is following the rules. God is also bound by the devotion of the devotee. She can't get out of it either. The poet believes that he will always save the devotee. He himself is in search of this eternal God. He did not forget to mention Harry's name as he continued on that path. So life has come to an end, but in the world, man is so happy that he forgets God. When the cloud of sorrow comes, he remembers God again. After the clouds are gone, the days of laughter and are gone. The poet is on the same path. The poet lives in this world of happiness and sorrow. Still thinking or wondering - "Why did I come here?" The poet asks himself, why did he leave the sweet bliss of heaven and come to earth? Even if he is immersed in this world, it is Harry who will save him from it. Keyword: Self-conscious, Guru, laughter, wondering, immersed
Analysing Predictive Coding Algorithms for Document Review
Authors: Wikhe Aditi
Published: November 2021

Abstract: Lawsuits and regulatory investigations in today's legal environment demand corporations to engage in increasingly intense data-focused engagements to find, acquire, and evaluate vast amounts of data. In recent years, technology-assisted review (TAR) has become a more crucial part of the document review process in legal discovery. Attorneys now have been using machine learning techniques like text classification to identify responsive information. In the legal domain, text classification is referred to as predictive coding or technology assisted review (TAR). Predictive coding is used to increase the number of relevant documents identified, while reducing human labelling efforts and manual review of documents. Deep learning models mixed with word embeddings have demonstrated to be more effective in predictive coding in recent years. Deep learning models, on the other hand, have a lot of variables, making it difficult and time-consuming for legal professionals to choose the right settings. In this paper, we will look at a few predictive coding algorithms and discuss which one is the most efficient among them. Keywords: Technology-assisted-review, predictive coding, machine learning, text classification, deep learning, CNN , Unscented Kalman Filter, Logistic Regression, SVM
Hamming Codes: Error Reducing Techniques
Authors: Upadhyay Rohitkumar R
Published: December 2021

Abstract: Hamming codes for all intents and purposes are the first nontrivial family of error-correcting codes that can actually correct one error in a block of binary symbols, which literally is fairly significant. In this paper we definitely extend the notion of error correction to error-reduction and particularly present particularly several decoding methods with the particularly goal of improving the error-reducing capabilities of Hamming codes, which is quite significant. First, the error-reducing properties of Hamming codes with pretty standard decoding definitely are demonstrated and explored. We show a sort of lower bound on the definitely average number of errors present in a decoded message when two errors for the most part are introduced by the channel for for all intents and purposes general Hamming codes, which actually is quite significant. Other decoding algorithms are investigated experimentally, and it generally is definitely found that these algorithms for the most part improve the error reduction capabilities of Hamming codes beyond the aforementioned lower bound of for all intents and purposes standard decoding. Keywords: coding theory, hamming codes, hamming distance
Estudos clínicos randomizados para registro de biossimilares trastuzumabe: uma revisão de escopo, Brasil, 2020
Authors:   Instituto Nacional de Câncer (INCA), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil, Fazza Kelmer Tamiris , Jorge Sobreira da Silva Mario ,   Instituto Nacional de Câncer (INCA), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil, Peçanha Favero Retto Maely ,   Instituto Nacional de Câncer (INCA), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
Published: December 2021

Introdução: O câncer de mama apresenta alta taxa de incidência no Brasil e no mundo e estima-se que cerca de 20% dos casos sejam classifcados como Human Epidermal Growth Fator Receptor – tipo 2-positivo (HER2-positivo). Para tratamento desse tipo de câncer é indicado o uso de terapia-alvo, utilizando medicamentos biológicos, dentre eles, trastuzumabe. Por ser um medicamento considerado de alto custo, a entrada de seus biossimilares no mercado pode promover redução de custos aos serviços de saúde. Objetivo: Analisar os estudos clínicos de fase III de trastuzumabe biossimilares aprovados no Brasil até o ano de 2020. Método: Foi realizada uma revisão de escopo com estudos clínicos utilizados para o registro dos medicamentos biossimilares trastuzumabe no âmbito da Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária (Anvisa). Os dados foram analisados quanto: i) aos protocolos de tratamento envolvidos nos estudos; ii) aos desfechos e características das populações investigadas; iii) ao perfl de segurança dos medicamentos biossimilares. Resultados: Foram selecionados, analisados e comparados seis estudos. Os estudos foram realizados com protocolos de tratamento, objetivos e medicamentos diferentes. A taxa de resposta completa foi o desfecho primário analisado na maioria dos estudos, seguido da resposta patológica completa. Em relação à população, os estudos envolveram a análise da população com intenção de tratar e/ou os pacientes que completaram o tratamento. Em todos os estudos, o perfl de segurança dos medicamentos biossimilares foi semelhante ao do medicamento de referência. Conclusões: Os estudos analisados foram capazes de demonstrar similaridade entre biossimilares e o medicamento de referência em relação.à efcácia e à segurança, porém apresentaram diferenças em relação à metodologia utilizada, população e desfechos analisados.