bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting Autonomic Dysfunction in Anxiety Disorder from ECG and Respiratory Signals Using Machine Learning Models
Authors: George Abhilash Saj , Kurup Arjun Vijayanatha , Balachandran Parthasarathy , Nair Manjusha , Gopinath Siby , Kumar Anand , Parasuram Harilal
Published: July 2021

Anxiety is a cognitive, behavioural, and biological response that prepares the individual to handle the stresses and conflicts of everyday life. The excessive appearance of this biological response is diagnosed as an anxiety disorder, which is often associated with Autonomic dysfunction (ADy). ADy is difficult to study in clinics with very few parameters available. Detection of ADy may not be possible/difficult in anxiety disorder with the existing method. In this study, we built machine learning models to identify ADy in subjects with anxiety using properties extracted from ECG and respiratory signals. For each dataset, statistical and frequency domain features were estimated from ECG and respiratory signals. Supervised machine learning (ML) algorithms were used to classify the subjects. Out of 23 features estimated, 11 were found to be statistically significant for the classification. We segmented the signals into 5, 10, and 30 minutes intervals to build generalized models. To overcome data imbalance, ensemble techniques like boosting was used. The highest accuracy was obtained in the SVM, Random forest and Gradient Boosting classifiers (cross-validation accuracy of 82.2%, 81.64% and 79.06% and; AUC of 0.81, 0.76 and 0.84) for 10 and 30 minutes segmented datasets. Our results showed that the features extracted from the ECG signal are a good marker for diagnosing ADy in patients with anxiety disorder. Further, a deep neural network-based model can be implemented that may achieve better accuracy for classification provided with the cost of a large number of datasets and computation time.
An Energy-Efficient Routing Protocol for MANET in Internet of Things Environment
Authors: Vu Quy Khanh , Le Ngoc Anh
Published: July 2021

MANET-IoT networks are currently being focus developed and expected to become popular in next-generation mobile networks due to their simplicity and efficiency in solving real problems in a wide range of areas such as smart agriculture, smart health care, intelligent traffic, military, entertainment, and smart cities. Because of the nature of mobile network nodes, saving energy for MANET is always a complicated problem. In this paper, we proposed a saving energy routing protocol that uses an integrated routing metric from hops number and remaining energy metrics for decision-making to selects a fit route. Besides, we evaluate the performance of the proposed protocol on NS2 simulation software. Simulation results demonstrated the proposed protocol improves the network lifetime and network performance parameters compared to traditional protocols.
Toddler ASD Classification Using Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Mohanty Ashima Sindhu , Patra Krishna Chandra , Parida Priyadarsan
Published: July 2021

At present era, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has become one of the severe neurologically developed disorders throughout the world and early recognition can substantially get rid of this problem. The proposed work is based on the analysis of unbalanced ASD toddler dataset from UCI data repository. The work in this paper is performed in three stages. In first stage, the original data is preprocessed through converting the categorical attributes to numeric values by the process of frequency encoding followed by standardization of numeric attributes. In the second stage, the dimension of input is reduced using Principal component analysis (PCA). At the end, the classification of ASD Toddler data is performed through different machine learning classification models in two stages viz. through training parameter ε and through k-fold cross validation (k=10). The experimentation yields very high classification performance in comparison with other state-of-art approaches.
Reinforced Deep Learning for Verifying Finger Veins
Authors: Najeeb Shaima Miqdad Mohamed , Al-Nima Raid Rafi Omar , Al-Dabag Mohand Lokman Ahmad
Published: July 2021

Recently, personal verifications become crucial demands for providing securities in personal accounts and financial activities. This paper suggests a new Deep Learning (DL) model called the Re-enforced Deep Learning (RDL). This approach provides another way of personal verification by using the Finger Veins (FVs). The RDL consists of multiple layers with a feedback. Two FV fingers are employed for each person, FV of the index finger for first personal verification and FV of the middle finger for re-enforced verification. The used database is from the Hong Kong Polytechnic University Finger Image (PolyUFI) database (Version 1.0). The result shows that the proposed RDL achieved a promising performance of 91.19%. Also, other DL approaches are exploited for comparisons in this study including state-of-the-art models.
ASEAN Towards a Global Halal Logistics Through the Digitally Enabled Community
Authors: Hidayat Sutan Emir , Musari Khairunnisa
Published: July 2021

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is leading the development of global halal trade and has the opportunity to become a leader in the global halal supply chain, especially in global halal logistics. Given the push towards digital transformation in creating a halal ecosystem and regarding the agenda of ASEAN towards a digitally-enabled economy, this study wants to examine whether ASEAN digitally-enabled community is correlated with ASEAN's chances of becoming a global halal logistics. Through a correlation test, it is found that there is a statistically significant relationship between ASEAN digitally-enabled community, as measured in internet subscribers/users per 100 persons and cellular/mobile phone per 100 persons, and the opportunity for ASEAN to become a global halal logistics, measured in ASEAN GDP, total air cargo, total trade in goods, and international air passenger traffic. This is probably the first study that preliminarily confirms digitally-enabled community is very important to strengthen ASEAN's opportunities to become the global halal logistics.
Technology Leadership in Malaysian Schools
Authors: Ghavifekr Simin , Wong Seng Yue
Published: July 2021

Education 4.0 is the answer to the global needs for the advanced integration of humans and technology. Leading school’s technology utilization can be the way forward to support education 4.0 realization. This study aims to investigate the effects and roles of principals’ technology leadership towards teachers’ ICT utilization and students’ academic performance in secondary schools in Selangor, Malaysia. This empirical study uses a set of questionnaires to gather information from respondents who are in the teaching profession. A total of 310 questionnaires were completed and analyzed. The findings have shown significant positive impacts between the effects of the technology leadership roles of principals on teachers’ effective ICT utilization and students’ academic performance. The integration of ICT and technological tools in schools has a great challenge towards the new era of the Education 4.0 system. This suggests that principals who embrace technology will effectively lead their schools to acquire educational resources to enhance student engagement and learning.
Online Learning System in Higher Education Institutions in Pakistan
Authors: Tabassum Farhana , Akram Nazia , Moazzam Muhammad
Published: July 2021

Novel COVID‐19 caused turmoil in every domain of life around the globe. To halt the further spread of virus, preventive measures such as social and physical distancing has led the temporal cessation of all education institutions in numerous countries. To minimize disruption of teaching and learning process during epidemic, the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan directed universities transition to an online learning system. The research paper explores deeply the problems faced by students in the current online education system introduced by various universities. A survey research method was employed and the data were collected through convenience sampling. The link of the semi-structured questionnaire was shared with 550 students enrolled in public and private universities in Lahore, Pakistan. The study brought to light the diversified problems such as lack of internet facility, load shedding, financial issues, ear pain due to prolong use of hand free/Bluetooth and unreliable results in assessments.
Understanding Customer Motivation to Share Information in Social Commerce
Authors: Hsieh Yen-Hao , Lo Ya-Ting
Published: July 2021

The gradual emergence of social commerce is enhancing the development of businesses. The opinions exchanged and information shared by each consumer in the community affects consumers’ purchasing decisions and participation behaviors. This study established a consumer information sharing model in social commerce based on the theories of social exchange and communication ecology. Data were collected from 204 respondents and PLS technique was used to analyze the data. The results indicated that reciprocity and community participation exhibited a significantly positive effect on information sharing. Reciprocity and community participation also had partial mediation effects on the consumer–community and consumer–platform relationships.
Predisposing Factors and Management of Hemodynamic Depression Following Carotid Artery Stenting
Authors: Sudheer Pachipala , Agarwal Ayush , Vishnu Venugopalan Y. , Padma Srivastava M. V.
Published: July 2021

Carotid artery stenting (CAS) involves dilatation of carotid bulb which can trigger a series of neuronal responses resulting in hemodynamic depression that might influence the outcome of the procedure. This is a frequent but underdiagnosed complication of CAS. Although it is mild, transient and self-limiting in majority of cases, it can result in significant morbidity and mortality if persistent. Neurologists should be aware of the predisposing factors and management of this common complication. In patients who present with stroke following carotid stenting, neurologists should be aware of hypoperfusion secondary to hemodynamic depression as a cause of stroke apart from the stent thrombosis and occlusion.
Cytomegalovirus Infection and Kidney Transplantation- A Retrospective Study of Risk Factors and Long-Term Clinical Outcome
Authors: Rajendiran Aravinth Kumar , Jeyachandran Dhanapriya , Gopalakrishnan Natarajan , Arumugam Venkatesh , Thanigachalam Dineshkumar , Ramanathan Sakthirajan
Published: July 2021

Aim:

The aim was to study the clinical characteristics of postrenal transplant cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection and analyze its risk factors and its impact on graft and patient survival.

Materials and Methods:

We reviewed medical records of 739 renal transplant patients over 17 years (2002–2018). The demographic characteristics of patients were collected and compared with and without CMV infection. Multiple logistic regression analysis was done to identify risk factors for posttransplant CMV infection. Kaplan–Meier survival curve analysis was performed to analyze graft and patient survival by CMV infection.

Results:

The prevalence of CMV infection in our center was 12.4%. The most common presentation of CMV infection posttransplant is CMV syndrome. The use of antirejection therapy (hazard ratio [HR] 4.2, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.6–6.9, P = 0.00), and new-onset diabetes after transplantation (NODAT) (HR 5.95, 95% CI 3.4–10, P = 0.00) was independently associated with postrenal transplant CMV infection. In Kaplan–Meier survival analysis, death-censored graft survival was significantly superior in patients without CMV infection/disease (CMV group: 55.4% vs. non-CMV group: 70.6% at 140 months P = 0.046). Patient survival was also significantly superior in patients without CMV infection (CMV group :59.8% vs. non-CMV group: 75.9% at 140 months P = 0.016).

Conclusions:

The use of antirejection therapy and NODAT are strong risk factors for developing CMV infection. Posttransplant CMV infection has a significant negative impact on graft and patient survival.
Seeing the National Education Policy 2020 through the lens of early child development
Authors: Anitha G. Fatima Shirly , Narasimhan Udayakumar
Published: July 2021

Globally there is a revolution in science with digitalisation and artificial intelligence. A country's investment in education is crucial to manage the knowledge economy. Early childhood education is the foundation for future academic success and life skills. India's third National Educational Policy emphasises on improving the quality of early learning. This curriculum aligns with the basic theories and stages of early child development, which if effectively implemented leads to holistic development and learning.
The impact of working in a COVID hospital on sexual functioning in male nurses
Authors: Kumar Mahendra , Mohindra Ritin , Sharma Khina , Soni Roop Kishor , Rana Kirtan , Singh Shubh Mohan
Published: July 2021

Introduction:

The COVID-19 pandemic has spread to almost all the countries and regions in the world. The fear of getting infected while serving COVID patients and the stress due to separation from family during the quarantine period may impact over sexual functioning of healthcare workers (HCWs).

Methodology:

The study protocol was approved by the institutional ethics committee. This was a nonfunded, cross-sectional, observational study. All participants provided written informed consent. This study was carried out in a multispecialty tertiary teaching hospital in North India. The participants were drawn from married and living with partner male nurses. Sexual functioning was assessed using the changes in sexual functioning questionnaire short-form (CSFQ-14).

Results:

The study found that the prevalence of global sexual dysfunction was significantly higher in male nurses who had completed their rotations in the COVID hospital when compared to those who had not. There were no statistically significant differences between the groups on sociodemographic profiles and the profile of their spouses.

Discussion:

HCWs working in COVID situations are known to suffer from stress, depression, and anxiety. This may impact the sexual functioning of the HCWs, especially when they have been in an infectious environment and the marital dyad may have doubts of the transmission of the infection.

Conclusion:

Male nurses who have worked in a COVID care setting are likely to report higher levels of sexual dysfunction
Role of laboratory biomarkers in assessing the severity of COVID-19 disease. A cross-sectional study
Authors: Nizami Deba J. , Raman Vidya , Paulose L. , Hazari Komal S. , Mallick Ayaz K.
Published: July 2021

Background:

Corona virus disease 2019 (Covid-19) has high infectivity and mortality rate. Covid-19 patients can suddenly deteriorate and develop life threatening complications. Hence, there is a need to identify laboratory biomarkers in order to categorize high risk patients. The main purpose of the study is to investigate the role and correlation of laboratory parameters such as total leucocyte count (TLC), absolute lymphocyte count, platelet count, C-Reactive Proteins (CRP), serum ferritin, serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), serum procalcitonin and D-dimer in severe and non-severe Covid-19 patients.

Methodology:

This retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted at Latifa Women and Child Hospital in the UAE after obtaining ethical committee clearance. Based on the symptoms and the criteria by National Institute of Health, USA, 109 patients were divided into three groups: Non-severe with 75, severe with 18 and critical with 16 patients. Laboratory data of these patients were assessed through the electronic medical records (SALAMA). Statistical analysis was done using Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25.0 (SPSS/PC; SPSS-25.0, Chicago, USA). Laboratory test profiles were expressed as mean (SD). Independent ‘t’ test and ANOVA were used to study the significance of means. P value less than 0.05 was considered significant.

Result:

Males were more severely affected than females. Severe and critically ill Covid-19 patients had a significantly higher TLC, serum LDH, ferritin and CRP and lower absolute lymphocyte count. PCT and D-dimer were significantly elevated in critical group.

Conclusion:

Along with clinical presentation and radiological findings, biochemical parameter may also be considered as important predictors for assessing severity in covid-19 patients.
The requirement of hemodialysis in patients with acute gastroenteritis–induced acute kidney injury
Authors: Bhakthavatchalam Supriyaa , Srinivasan Devasena , Prithviraj R
Published: July 2021

Acute gastroenteritis is an important cause of preventable acute kidney injury (AKI). Inadequate or delayed restoration of diarrheal losses results in a very high incidence of AKI. Diarrheal illness is a major reason for hospitalization, but data on consequent acute kidney injury are sparse. The objective of the study is to determine the incidence of AKI in infectious and noninfectious diarrheal illness requiring hospitalization and to identify correlates and outcomes of diarrhea-associated AKI. None of the patients had any organism isolated in stool, probably due to prompt initiation of antibiotics/inadequate culture growth. Three out of our 6 cases did not require hemodialysis (HD) and AKI resolved on conservative management alone (fluids, electrolyte management, and antibiotics). Three out of 6 cases had nonresolving AKI and were dependent on renal replacement therapy (RRT) even at 1 month after discharge as they remained oliguric. One recent paper has reported the recovery of renal function after a period of dialysis. Frequent electrolyte abnormalities, risk of (catheter-related/bloodstream) infections, and severity of the primary disease are the chief reasons for the persistently high morbidity. Although, there was no mortality in our study.
Epidemiological characteristics of children with coronavirus at a joint commission-accredited hospital in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Al Mansoori Latifa , Al Kaabi Salwa , Nair Satish Chandrasekhar , Al Katheeri Manal , Ghatasheh Ghassan , Al Dhanhani Huda , Al Kaabi Aysha
Published: July 2021

Objectives:

Our aim was to identify the epidemiological characteristics and transmission patterns of coronavirus (COVID-19) among pediatric patients in the multicultural and multiethnic city of Al Ain in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Method:

A retrospective study was conducted by abstracting data from the electronic medical records of pediatric patients with COVID-19 from two major public hospitals in Al Ain. The data of patients from birth through 16 years of the cases with COVID-19 confirmed by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction were obtained. In addition to the epidemiological characteristics, transmission patterns, comorbidities, index cases, travel history, and coinfection with other viruses were analyzed. Cohen's kappa was used to assess interrater reliability and descriptive data. Chi-square test was used to assess significant differences between the variables and was conducted using Statistical Product and Service Solutions software.

Results:

We identified 298 (150 males, 148 females) laboratory-confirmed cases. The patients’ median age was 7 years. Of these, 50% had parents who also tested positive. Most patients (86.9%) were healthy without any known medical problems. The coinfection rate was ~2%.

Conclusion:

The epidemiological characteristics of children with COVID-19 in Al Ain are similar to those observed internationally. Children of all ages appeared to be susceptible to COVID-19 and no significant sex or ethnicity differences were detected. Furthermore, this study provides strong evidence of human-to-human transmission.
Prevalence, risk factors and quality of life of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS) among men attending Primary Care slum clinics in Bangalore
Authors: Kant Priyesh , Inbaraj Leeberk Raja , Franklyn Nirupama Navamani , Norman Gift
Published: July 2021

Background:

Men, more than 50 years of age, have a higher incidence of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), and this increases with the advancing age. The prevalence of LUTS varies in different geographical areas across the world, and studies have reported that LUTS in men may significantly affect the quality of life (QoL) and influence their health-seeking behavior. Early detection of LUTS is essential as it is related to several complications. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of LUTS and factors associated with LUTS and health-seeking behavior.

Methods:

We interviewed 201 men (>50 years) attending two urban primary care clinics in Bangalore using the IPSS questionnaire and calculated the prevalence of LUTS. Factors associated with LUTS and health seeking-behavior were tested using the Chi-square test. A P-value less than 0.05 was considered as significant.

Results:

The prevalence of LUTS was 85%. LUTS was significantly associated with those having diabetes and those consuming more than two cups of tea per day. The most common symptom was nocturia (85.4%) and a weak stream (35.0%). Moderate and severe LUTS were significantly associated with poor QoL score (P < 0.0001). Only 9.3% of the men sought medical help in spite of their symptoms, and the most common reason for seeking health care was the disturbance they had due to the urinary symptoms (81.3%).

Conclusions:

Family physicians should be aware that a significant proportion of the men in the age group of 50 years suffer from LUTS, and eliciting the same is essential during the process of consultation.
A study on contraceptive prevalence rate and factors influencing it in a rural area of Coimbatore, South India
Authors: Osborn Jenit A. , Sriram Rm , Karthikeyan S , Ravishankar S.L
Published: July 2021

Introduction:

India is the first country to implement National Family Program in 1952. Acceptance of contraceptive methods is influenced by various factors at the individual, family, and community level with their roots in the socioeconomic and cultural milieu of Indian society. This study was carried to find the contraceptive prevalence rate among eligible couples as well as to find the factors influencing it in a rural area of Coimbatore.

Methodology:

The study was carried out using the data extracted from the family health survey conducted by trained field staff for the purpose of furnishing details regarding people residing in the field practice area of Rural Health Training Centre (RHTC), Vedapatti located in Coimbatore district after obtaining Institutional Human Ethical clearance. All eligible couples were included for the study. Contraceptive prevalence is expressed in percentage with 95% Confidence interval. Univariate analysis (Chi-square test) was done to find the association between contraceptive acceptance and independent variables. Strength of association is determined by odds ratio with 95% Confidence Interval (CI). P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

Contraceptive Prevalence Rate among eligible couples was found to be 75% (95% CI: 73.6–76.4). Most commonly used method among the study participants was tubectomy (81.6%), followed by condoms (11.4%), intrauterine devices (6.3%), and oral contraceptive pills (0.7%). Higher age of the women, religion, educational status of the women, socioeconomic status, working status of the women, number of living children, age at the time of marriage, and age at the time of first child birth were found to have statistical significant association with higher usage of contraception.

Conclusion:

The contraceptive prevalence rate was found to be higher in this study population and multiple factors were influencing the contraception usage among the eligible couples.
Level of exercise and physical activity among pregnant women in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Almalki Salwa A. , Ibraheem Eman F. , Alotibi Turkiah
Published: July 2021

The current study aimed to clarify the health benefits of physical activity on the mother and fetus in the Saudi women population. Besides, it is intended to provide recommendation based on the literature and results of studies from Saudi Arabia for exercise in pregnancy to improve the general health of women in Saudi Arabia. Prenatal physical exercise enhances physical and mental health of pregnant women. It can also reduce the risk of multiple pregnancy-related complications such as; lower back pain, fluid retention and risk of gestational diabetes. All these factors can affect fetal development and life later. Multiple studies showed that prenatal exercise could reduce the risk of fetal macrosomia with no effect on other perinatal or postnatal complications. The study followed the systematic literature review approach where it included multiple medical search Databases using PICOS eligibility criteria up to January 2019. The review was based on the following keywords: pregnancy, gestational, or prenatal) and (physical exercise, exercise, or physical activity. There are only two studies that dealt with physical exercises among Saudi women. The results indicated a relation between prenatal physical exercise on improving or decreasing risks on the mother and child during pregnancy.
Levels of selected metals in Ficus sur Forssk fruit and soil of the plant grown in different parts of Ethiopia
Authors: Pawlos Zelalem , Singh Chandravanshi Bhagwan , Yohannes Weldegebriel , Embiale Asamene
Published: July 2021

Ficus sur Forssk is one of the wild edible plants in Ethiopia. Its fruits are commonly used in different parts of Ethiopia. Ficus sur fruits and the soil of plant were collected from three different region of Ethiopia. Levels of selected metals (K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, Cd, and Pb) in the fruit and soil were determined by microwave plasma-atomic emission spectroscopy. The validity of the optimized procedure was evaluated by the analysis of spiked samples whose recoveries were in the range of 90.5-108%. The concentration range of metals (mg/kg) in Ficus sur fruit samples were K (12372-13687), Ca (3261-5389), Mg (744-785), Fe (418-479), Zn (23.9-25.4), Mn (9.13-18.0), Cu (6.78-7.97), Pb (2.45-6.23) and Cd (0.76-1.42), respectively and in the soil were in the range of 1406-5566 (K), 1248-1453 (Mg), 3140-9403 (Ca), 1186-2421 (Mn), 89763-96704 (Fe), 7.33-13.4 (Pb), 41.4-73.4 (Cu), 123-157 (Zn) and not detected Cd). Ficus sur fruit contains all the essential metals to human. However, it also contains toxic metals Cd at trace level and Pb at higher level than World Health Organization permission level.
Assessment of Beef Meat Handling, Physicochemical and Bacteriological Properties of Selected Butcheries in Hawassa City, Ethiopia
Authors: Hadero Tadewos , Nigusse Gezahegn , Banerjee Sandip
Published: July 2021

Meat is the flesh of an animal that is considered edible, especially that of a mammal or bird and is nutritionally rich in protein and allied nutrients. The carcass of an animal’s pass through several channels before being consumed, even the handling of the meat by the consumers determines its nutrient availability. Fresh meats are easily contaminated during slaughtering and thereafter the processing. If not properly handled, processed and preserved, the meat is a good medium to support growth and proliferation of microorganisms. The problem of beef handling and hygiene in butchers’ enterprise are focusing in slaughter slabs, beef transportation and butcheries especially in some small butchers. Over the past two decades, consumers have been exposed to a series of food safety frights including major outbreaks of food borne diseases, food security issues, and contaminated food supplies. The aim of the study is to assess the physicochemical characteristics of the beef in outlets, which includes water loss, water activity, cooking loss/ water holding capacity, pH, shear force, moisture content and ash, and the bacteriological quality of the beef meat viz. aerobic plate count, coliform count, fecal coliform, E. coli 0157:H7 type I, S. aureus, Salmonella, and Shigella spp. The fresh beef meat samples were collected from Hawassa city randomly selected agricultural meat distributors. The laboratory analyses were done according to standard methods for the examination of foods. The results of this study revealed that the change in physicochemical properties, specifically the amount of water content decrease not only affected meat color and quality but also made meat dry and tough. However, the entire beef samples were at the food grade level. Bacteriologically meat samples were at good quality status compared to the standard set for fresh foods such as raw meat. Moreover, Salmonella and Shigella spp. in every 25 gm sample of raw beef were not detected. Environment, equipment and personnel sanitary hygiene during butchering beef meat helps to keep beef meat bacteriologically safe and quality.
Genetic diversity analysis of Lima bean (Phaseolus lunatus L.) Landrace from Ethiopia as reveled by ISSR marker
Authors: Leyila Nasir Leyila Nasir , Feyissa Tileye , Asfaw Zemede
Published: July 2021

Lima bean (Phaseolus lunatus L.) is one of the five most important legume crops from the genus Phaseolus though it is one of the neglected crops in Ethiopia. There is no national breeding program for its improvement. As it is true for all crops, understanding the genetic diversity of Lima bean is useful for its improvement and sustainable use. Therefore, the objective of the current study was to investigate genetic diversity of Lima bean landrace collected in Ethiopia using eight issr markers. A total of 96 landrace were collected from five administrative zones of Ethiopia from which 106 clear bands were detected. About 95 (88.7%) of the bands were polymorphic. The genetic diversity analyses result revealed that landrace collected from West Wellega showed the highest (0.1864) genetic diversity. amova demonstrated highly significant (P=0.00) genetic diversity among and within populations. A considerable proportion (66%) of the total genetic diversity was distributed among populations and 34% within populations. In addition, the calculated Fst value was high (Fst = 0.66), associated with a low gene flow value (Nm=0.27) indicating lower differentiation of the populations, which, in turn, implied no significant exchange of planting materials among farmers in the studied populations and the nature of the crops that Lima bean is 52% self pollinated crop. upgma, structure and PCoA analysis showed very strong grouping among individuals collected from the same zones and geographically distinct zones. Overall, genetic diversity achieved from this study could be used as pioneer information about the existing genetic resource for future Lima bean conservation and improvement strategy in Ethiopia.
Copper slag as a potential waste filler for polyethylene-based composites manufacturing
Authors: Hejna Aleksander , Kosmela Paulina , Barczewski Mateusz , Mysiukiewicz Olga , Piascki Adam
Published: July 2021

The present study aimed to analyze the application of waste material from copper production– copper slag (ŻŻL) as filler for composites based on the high-density polyethylene (HDPE). Copper slag filler was introduced in the amounts of 1–20 wt%, and its influence on the appearance (color analysis), chemical structure (Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy), microstructure (optical microscopy), as well as static (tensile tests) and dynamic (dynamical mechanical analysis (DMA)) mechanical properties of composites were investigated. Proper dispersion of filler implicated that the incorporation of up to 5 wt% of filler caused only slight, 5% drop of tensile strength, with the simultaneous 16% rise of Young’s modulus. Further increase of filler loading resulted in higher values of porosity and the rise of the adhesion factor, determined from DMA results, which led to the deterioration of mechanical performance. Moreover, spectroscopic analysis of PE-ŻŻL composites indicated that the analyzed filler might be applied as a coloring agent, and the appearance of composites may be engineered by adjustment of filler loading.

Keywords: polyethylene, copper slag, mechanical properties, structure, composite, particle reinforced composite
Coupled effects of hydrophilic nano silica oxide and anatase nano titanium oxide on strengths of oilwell cement
Authors: Mabeyo Petro E , Gu Jun
Published: July 2021

The life of oil wells depends on the stability of cement sheath and bond strength with the formation and casing. Extreme subsurface conditions cause substantial stresses on the cement sheath resulting in a serious impact on well integrity. The recommended API cement for oilwell fails to provide the required durability of the cemented well due to such conditions. Supplementary cementitious materials such as nanoparticles are added to improve the cement for long-lasting zonal isolation. In this study, the compressive and shear bond strengths of oilwell cement containing nano-SiO2 and nano-TiO2 were studied at 80 °C for 3, 7, 14, and 28 days of hydration. The XRD, TG, and DSC were used for the analysis of cement hydration products. The results revealed that both nano-SiO2 and nano-TiO2 increased strength evolution. A ternary system made with 2% nano-SiO2 and 2% nano-TiO2 improved compressive strength by 22.6 and 48.4%, while the shear bond strength increased by 110.6 and 55% at age of 3 days and 28 days, respectively, compared to their corresponding binary systems. Therefore, these results remark the potential of replacing an appropriate proportion of oilwell cement with coupled nano-SiO2 and nano-TiO2 to ensure cement sheath structure durability in the annular and long-lasting zonal isolation.

Keywords: Nano-silica, nano-titanium, compressive strength, shear bond strength, oilwell cement
Effects of Xanthan gum on rheological properties of Aloe vera-Moringa leaf juice blends
Authors: Matabura Victor V , Rweyemamu Leonard MP
Published: July 2021

Understanding the impacts of hydrocolloid agents on the rheological properties of nutraceutical beverages like Aloe vera-moringa juice blend is very useful for functional properties and product stability. To this end, the effects of xanthan gum on rheological properties in Aloe vera-moringa leaf juice blends were investigated using a Brookfield rheometer. Aloe vera-moringa leaf juice blends were prepared and then incorporated with xanthan gum at different ratios (w/w) of 0.2%, 0.4%, 0.6%, 0.8%, and 1%. The results revealed that the viscosity of Aloe vera-moringa juice blend was strongly affected by the xanthan gum addition. The viscosity profiles depicted a decreasing trend in viscosity when a shear rate increased. The Aloe vera-moringa leaf juice blend changes from a Newtonian fluid to the non-Newtonian fluid as the xanthan gum fraction increases. Moreover, shear stress was observed to increase with increasing in xanthan gum concentrations. For quantitative analysis, both Power-law and Bingham model equations were fitted to experimental data to easily describe the flow behaviour of the Aloe vera-moringa leaf juice blends. The juices added with xanthan gum of 0.4% to 1% were found to show a shear-thinning behaviour, since the flow behaviour index, n < 1. This implies that the apparent viscosity decreases as the shear rate increases.

Keywords: Aloe vera juice, Moringa leaf juice, Xanthan gum, Rheological property, Nutraceutical beverage
Screening of aflatoxin-producing fungi in maize and groundnuts from three regions in Tanzania
Authors: Agape Kusiluka , Ndesendo Valence MK , Begum Sartaz
Published: July 2021

This study screened aflatoxin-producing fungi in maize and groundnuts from Dodoma, Singida and Iringa regions in Tanzania, and assessed the level of peoples’ awareness on aflatoxins health effects. One hundred and twenty samples (20 each crop) were collected and inoculated on Sabouraud dextrose agar and one hundred and eleven samples were observed to have fungal growths that were identified to belong to four genera, namely Aspergillus, Rhizopus, Mucor and Dermatophyte with occurrence frequencies of 75, 2.5, 5 and 10%, respectively. Among the four screened genera of fungi, Aspergillus was observed to be the major aflatoxin-producing fungi. Five species of genus Aspergillus, namely A. flavus, A. parasiticus, A. niger, A. fumigatus, and A. terreus were isolated with frequencies of 39.1, 10, 7.5, 15.8 and 2.5%, respectively. Macromorphology and micromorphology of isolated Aspergillus spp were also observed using a light microscope. Furthermore, it was noted that the prevalence of fungi and aflatoxins contamination is more in groundnuts than in maize. In terms of awareness in individuals concerning aflatoxins, only 34% respondents in Dodoma, 29.9% in Singida and 24% in Iringa were aware of aflatoxins. Therefore, the creation of awareness and sensitization on aflatoxins health effects to the people is an important part of intervention ways to forestall and control aflatoxins in Tanzania.

Keywords: Aflatoxins, Maize, Groundnuts, Aspergillus spp, A. flavus, A. parasiticus, A. niger, A. fumigatus and A. terreus
Thermodynamic analysis of a variable viscosity reactive hydromagnetic couette flow within parallel plates
Authors: Hassan Anthony R , Lawal Olufemi W , Amurawaye Funmilayo F
Published: July 2021

This investigation is to consider the impact of a temperature-dependent variable viscosity of a reactive hydromagnetic Couette fluid flowing within parallel plates. The variable property of the fluid viscosity is thought to be an exponential relation of temperature under the impact of magnetic strength. The differential equations controlling the smooth movement of fluid and energy transfer are modeled and solved by using the series solution of modified Adomian decomposition technique (mADM). The outcomes are shown in tables and graphs for different estimations of thermophysical properties present in the flow regime together with the rate of entropy generation and irreversibility distribution outcome.

Keywords: Reactive fluids, Couette Flow, variable viscosity, hydromagnetic and modified Adomian decomposition method (mADM).
Integration of geophysics and remote sensing techniques in mapping zones mineralised with disseminated gold and sulphide minerals in Lolgorien, Narok County, Kenya
Authors: Ombiro Sammy O , Olatunji Akinade S , Mathu Eliud M , Ajayi Taiwo R
Published: July 2021

Even though ground geophysical surveys (especially Induced polarization and resistivity) are applied in mineral exploration, their effectiveness in identification of mineralised zones is often enhanced by integrating other mineral exploration techniques such as remote sensing and geological investigations. Integrating different techniques helps in reducing uncertainty that is often associated with mineral exploration. The methods being integrated also depend on characteristics of mineralisation and those of host rock. In this study, geophysical survey methods (induced polarization and resistivity) were integrated with remote sensing and geological methods to delineate mineralised zones in Lolgorien beyond reasonable doubt. By integrating these methods, it was found that Lolgorien’s gold and sulphide minerals (disseminated minerals) are hosted in massive quartz veins and auriferous quartz veins hosted in Banded Iron Formations. It was also found that this mineralisation was controlled by faults which mainly trend in two directions (NW-SE) and (NE-SW).

Keywords: hydrothermal alteration, chargeability, resistivity, band ratio, lineament density
Arithmatics in Serat Centhini
Authors: Prabowo Agung
Published: July 2021

Serat Centhini (Suluk Tambanglaras or Suluk Tambangraras-Amongraga) is one of the greatest literary works in New Javanese literature. Its construction began in 1742 Java (1814 AD) during Sunan Pakubuwana IV. The main reference is the Jatiswara book which was made in 1711 Java or 1783 AD during Sunan Pakubuwana III. This article tracks the arithmetic information contained in Serat Centhini, including cardinal numbers, ordinal numbers, Javanese calendar, and candrasengkala. The research was carried out by using the literature study method of Serat Centhini which is translated into Indonesian and transliterated in Latin script. The results showed that Serat Centhini recorded quite a lot of mathematical information which was used in the daily life of Javanese people. The results of this study can be used as teaching materials for ethnomathematics.
Determination of Missing Digit on the Year Number of Prasasti Sirah Keting
Authors: Prabowo Agung , Sukono Sukono
Published: July 2021

In writing the inscription, several things need to be considered, one of which is the number of years. One example of an inscription that engraves the number of years up to thousands is the Sirah Keting Inscription. The condition of the inscription when it was found was worn, including the year number. According to J. L. A. Brandes and W. F. Stutterheim, the Sirah Kĕting inscription dates to 1026 Śaka, while according to the reading of Louis-Charles Damais, the year number is 1126 Śaka. The correctness of the differences in the reading of the number of years can be traced by using the Bratakesawa Tabulation, Damais Tabulation, Zeller Formual, and Sivaraman Formula. The four methods used gave the same results. The missing number in the hundreds position is 1 so that the number of years inscribed on the Sirah Keting Inscription is 1126 Saka or 1204 AD.
Percepción sensorial de galletas de chocolate utilizando el método TDS
Authors: Pérez-Vargas Alessandro , Gutierrez-Ñique Cesar , Díaz-Castillo Junnior , Gutierrez-Varas Marco
Published: July 2021

El proceso de percepción sensorial de alimentos ha recuperado la atención de los tecnólogos e investigadores alimentarios, por eso el presente trabajo de investigación tuvo como objetivo evaluar ocho atributos: sabor chocolate, vainilla, crocante, dulce, amargo, cremosidad, blando y grasoso en cuatro marcas de galletas de chocolate: Casino Black, Oreo, Field y Rellenitas (GN); haciendo uso del método de Dominancia Temporal de Sensaciones para determinar las sensaciones dominantes en el tiempo y estudiar la evolución de las características sensoriales durante la degustación. Los panelistas fueron consumidores frecuentes de estas galletas de edades entre 18 a 50 años; de los cuales el 75% fueron varones. Luego de la recolección y ordenación de datos, se construyeron curvas de dominancia en función de la tasa de dominancia y con el trazado de una línea de chance y otra de significancia; nos permitió observar la secuencialidad de dominancia de cada atributo. Para establecer diferencias significativas entre los 4 tipos de galletas según las sensaciones percibidas como dominantes; se aplicó ANOVA Y MANOVA a las distintas muestras. Concluyendo que la galleta Oreo tuvo como atributos dominantes a la cremosidad, dulzura y chocolate en ese orden; la Rellenita al sabor chocolate, blando y grasoso; Casino Black cremosidad, crocancia y dulzura y en la galleta Field el sabor vainilla, amargo y blando.
Tecnología, Violencia e Higienismo: una perspectiva bioética
Authors: Barboza Marco , Mocellin Marcia
Published: July 2021

En la segunda mitad del siglo XX, y con más énfasis de la década de 1970 en adelante, la Bioética ha consolidado una infraestructura y episteme vinculados al campo de las ciencias de la salud, en el que se destaca claramente lo relativo al desarrollo institucional de la evaluación ética. Con el cambio de siglo se estima necesario desarrollar una revisión bioética que comprenda también el pliegue tecnológico, la violencia espectacularizada y el higienismo repotenciado, con lo cual se busca sentar las bases de un abordaje sistemático de la Bioética respecto de tópicos socioculturales, como algo necesario y útil para el fortalecimiento de esta disciplina en el siglo XXI.
Probiotic effect on reserve mobilization in late stage pregnancy in goats
Authors: Bouchicha Ahmed El Bachir , Mimoune Nora , Djouadi Sohaib , Kalem Ammar , Kaidi Rachid , Khelef Djamel
Published: July 2021

This study was carried out to evaluate a probiotic effect on the mobilisation of body reserves in goats towards the end of gestation by measuring ketone body production in blood and calculating the body condition score (BCS). Ketone body production was monitored by measuring the betahydroxybutyrate BHB levels in the blood using a portable kit (PRECISION XTRA Blood ketone test). The results revealed that the use of the probiotic SYMBIOVEBA® (association of Saccharomyces cervicae and Lactobacillus) did not decrease the formation of blood BHB in goats, and therefore did not decrease mobilization of the body reserves of goats in late pregnancy.
CARDIAC MANIFESTATION WITH RARE PANCREATIC AGENESIS: A CASE REPORT WITH REVIEW OF LITERATURE
Authors: Ahmed Iftekhar , Salman Salma , Farman Tariq
Published: July 2021

Due to increasing radiology in current era more and more rare radio logical manifestation are coming in front. We reported a rare case of pancreatic a genesis with cardiac manifestation documented echocardiographically which include pulmonary stenosis, and mild pulmonary arterial hypertension. Due to mutation in gene these changes are possible but due to cost constraint we are unable to document genetic mutation.
Early stages of anchovy: abundance, variability and larval condition at the fixed coastal station EPEA between 2000-2017
Authors: Leonarduzzi Ezequiel , Do Souto Marina , Díaz Marina V.
Published: July 2021

Densities of eggs and larvae of Engraulis anchoita and the nutritional condition of larvae were analyzed in the fixed sampling station (EPEA) in the period 2000-2017. These variables were analyzed seasonally and trends over time were determined. Ichthyoplankton samples were collected by oblique trawls using Bongo nets with 300 μm of pore mesh and fixed with formaldehyde 5% in seawater. Six morphometric variables were measured to estimate the nutritional condition of larvae. The developmental stage of each specimen was also determined. The highest mean value of egg density was detected in the October-December period, with a secondary mode in August, followed by one in March. Larval density presented a mode in October. Autumn and spring were the most favorable seasons for larval condition while winter proved to be the least favorable one. An increase in food availability during autumn and spring due to primary and secondary production peaks could explain the high nutritional condition and growth values observed in these seasons at the EPEA. No changes in trends of variables over time were detected. The integrated study of density and nutritional condition of E. anchoita larvae allows the determination of favorable breeding periods for the species, while the continuation of the long term study will allow evaluating possible effects of climate change in the early life stages of this species.