bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiple CNN Variants and Ensemble Learning for Sunspot Group Classification by Magnetic Type
Authors: Tang Rongxin , Zeng Xunwen , Chen Zhou , Liao Wenti , Wang Jingsong , Luo Bingxian , Chen Yanhong , Cui Yanmei , Zhou Meng , Deng Xiaohua , Li Haimeng , Yuan Kai , Hong Sheng , Wu Zhiping
Published: November 2021

A solar active region is a source of disturbance for the Sun–terrestrial space environment and usually causes extreme space weather, such as geomagnetic storms. The main indicator of an active region is sunspots. Certain types of sunspots are related to extreme space weather caused by eruptive events such as coronal mass ejections or solar flares. Thus, the automatic classification of sunspot groups is helpful to predict solar activity quickly and accurately. This paper completed the automatic classification of a sunspot group data set based on the Mount Wilson classification scheme, which contains continuum and magnetogram images provided by the Solar Dynamics Observatory’s Helioseismic and Magnetic Imager SHARP data from 2010 May 1 to 2017 December 12. After applying some data preprocessing steps such as image cropping and data standardization, the features of magnetic type in the data are more obvious, and the amount of data is increased. The processed data are spliced into two frames of single-channel data for the neural network to perform 3D convolution operations. This paper constructs a variety of convolutional neural networks with different structures and numbers of layers, selects 10 models as representatives, and chooses XGBoost, which is commonly used in ensemble-learning algorithms, to fuse the results of independent classification models. We found that XGBoost is an effective way to fuse models, which is proved by the relatively balanced high scores in the three magnetic types. The accuracy of the ensemble model is above 92%. The F1 scores of the magnetic types of Alpha, Beta, and Beta-x reached 0.95, 0.91, and 0.82 respectively.
Potential distribution of invasive boxwood blight pathogen (Calonectria pseudonaviculata) as predicted by process-based and correlative models
Authors: Barker Brittany , Coop Leonard , Hong Chuanxue
Published: November 2021

Boxwood blight, caused by the ascomycete fungi Calonectria pseudonaviculata and C. henricotiae, is an emerging plant disease of boxwood (Buxus spp.) that has had devastating impacts on the health and productivity of boxwood in both the horticultural sector and native ecosystems. In this study, we predicted the potential distribution of C. pseudonaviculata at regional and global scales and explored how climatic factors shape its known range limits. Our workflow combined multiple modeling algorithms to enhance the reliability and robustness of predictions. We produced a process-based climatic suitability model in the CLIMEX program and combined outputs of six different correlative modeling algorithms to generate an ensemble correlative model. All models were fit and validated using an occurrence record dataset (N = 292 records from 24 countries) comprised of positive detections of C. pseudonaviculata from across its entire known invaded range. Evaluations of model performance provided validation of good model fit for all models. A consensus map of CLIMEX and ensemble correlative model predictions indicated that not-yet-invaded areas in eastern and southern Europe and in the southeastern, midwestern, and Pacific coast regions of North America are climatically suitable for establishment. Most regions of the world where Buxus and its congeners are native are also at risk of establishment, which suggests that C. pseudonaviculata should be able to significantly expand its range globally if susceptible hosts exist. Our findings provide the first insight into the global invasion threat of boxwood blight, and are valuable to stakeholders who need to know where to focus surveillance efforts for early detection and rapid response measures to prevent or slow the spread of the disease.
New distribution records, first host plant record and DNA barcoding of the Neotropical plume moth Oidaematophorus pseudotrachyphloeus Gielis (Lepidoptera, Pterophoridae)
Authors: Vargas Héctor
Published: November 2021

Oidaematophorus pseudotrachyphloeusGielis, 2011 (Lepidoptera, Pterophoridae) is a little-known Neotropical plume moth previously recorded in Ecuador, Peru and Argentina. Its host plants and DNA barcodes are unknown.

Oidaematophorus pseudotrachyphloeusis recorded for the first time from Chile, based on six specimens from the Azapa Valley (Arica Province) and two from Guayacán (Coquimbo Province). Those from the Azapa Valley were reared from folivorous larvae collected onAmbrosia cumanensisKunth (Asteraceae), representing the first host plant record for this plume moth. The first DNA barcode sequences ofO. pseudotrachyphloeusare provided and used to explore relationships with congenerics.
Informations et nouvelles
Authors: Baron Anne-Marie , Lorant André , Vanoncini André , Lamy Isabelle , Bui Véronique , Baron Anne-Marie , Lamy Isabelle
Published: November 2021

À l’instar de toute sa génération, Balzac a lu les œuvres traduites de lord Byron, modèle de l’artiste bohême. Si son influence esthétique sur La Comédie humaine demeure modeste, les références au dandy britannique dans les lettres du romancier en font une figure identificatoire persistante auprès de ses correspondantes. Son discours auctorial, plus ambigu, en use comme d’un vernis dont peut se parer l’« humble prosateur », toutefois enclin à l’irrévérence. C’est enfin dans la représentation littéraire des lecteurs et émules de lord Byron que se cristallise, à travers cet exemple, toute l’ambivalence de Balzac face à l’éthos poétique.
Torse-forming vector fields on $ m $ -spheres
Authors: Ishan Amira ,   Department of Mathematics, College of Science, Taif University, P.O.Box 11099, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia, Deshmukh Sharief ,   Department of Mathematics, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O.Box-2455, Riyadh-11451, Saudi Arabia
Published: November 2021

A characterization of an $ m $-sphere $ \mathbf{S}^{m}(a) $ is obtained using a non-trivial torse-forming vector field $ \zeta $ on an $ m $-dimensional Riemannian manifold.
Félix Frías y el giro a los Orientes bolivianos de José Ballivián
Authors: Colàs Pol
Published: November 2021

Este texto analiza el proyecto llamado «católico-industrial» del intelectual argentino Félix Frías, enmarcado en el influyente liberalismo católico latinoamericano de mitad del siglo XIX, para la propagación del catolicismo sobre los pueblos indígenas, como medio necesario para el surgimiento del espíritu liberal entre los neófitos. Se sostiene que, dado su exilio en Bolivia y su cercanía a la Administración de José Ballivián (1841-1847), las nuevas políticas de integración de los Orientes bolivianos en el mercado interior del país llevadas a cabo por ese gobierno recibieron influencias del discurso de Frías y ejercieron peso sobre el mismo. Frías expresó su pensamiento fundamentalmente en dos obras, publicadas en 1844 y 1846. Ambas, junto con la prensa, el diario de debates, la legislación y algunos otros escritos menores constituyen las fuentes utilizadas en este artículo. A través de ellas podremos abordar la intertextualidad entre la obra de Frías y la política de Ballivián.
Ion channels alterations in the forebrain of high-fat diet fed rats
Authors: Roy Proshanta , Martinelli Ilenia , Moruzzi Michele , Maggi Federica , Amantini Consuelo , Micioni Di Bonaventura Maria Vittoria , Cifani Carlo , Amenta Francesco , Tayebati Seyed Khosrow , Tomassoni Daniele
Published: November 2021

Evidence suggests that transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channels dysfunction significantly contributes to the physiopathology of metabolic and neurological disorders. Dysregulation in functions and expression in genes encoding the TRP channels cause several inherited diseases in humans (the so-called ‘TRP channelopathies’), which affect the cardiovascular, renal, skeletal, and nervous systems. This study aimed to evaluate the expression of ion channels in the forebrain of rats with diet-induced obesity (DIO). DIO rats were studied after 17 weeks under a hypercaloric diet (high-fat diet, HFD) and were compared to the control rats with a standard diet (CHOW). To determine the systemic effects of HFD exposure, we examined food intake, fat mass content, fasting glycemia, insulin levels, cholesterol, and triglycerides. qRT-PCR, Western blot, and immunochemistry analysis were performed in the frontal cortex (FC) and hippocampus (HIP). After 17 weeks of HFD, DIO rats increased their body weight significantly compared to the CHOW rats. In DIO rats, TRPC1 and TRPC6 were upregulated in the HIP, while they were downregulated in the FC. In the case of TRPM2 expression, instead was increased both in the HIP and in the FC. These could be related to the increase of proteins and nucleic acid oxidation. TRPV1 and TRPV2 gene expression showed no differences both in the FC and HIP. In general, qRT-PCR analyses were confirmed by Western blot analysis. Immunohistochemical procedures highlighted the expression of the channels in the cell body of neurons and axons, particularly for the TRPC1 and TRPC6. The alterations of TRP channel expression could be related to the activation of glial cells or the neurodegenerative process presented in the brain of the DIO rat highlighted with post synaptic protein (PSD 95) alterations. The availability of suitable animal models may be useful for studying possible pharmacological treatments to counter obesity-induced brain injury. The identified changes in DIO rats may represent the first insight to characterize the neuronal alterations occurring in obesity. Further investigations are necessary to characterize the role of TRP channels in the regulation of synaptic plasticity and obesity-related cognitive decline.
Anti-inflammatory activity of a natural herbal-marine drug (MS14 - SANT and SUSP) compared to sodium salicylate or methylprednisolone in a rat model for multiple sclerosis
Authors: Naseri Mohsen , Rezaeizadeh Hossein , Mirghazanfari Mahdi , Taheripanah Taiebeh , Bararpoor Zahra , Ashayeri Neda , Asghari Majid , Shahi Abbas Talebi Mazrae , Emadi Fatemeh , Moghaddam Parvaneh Mohseni , Nejad Abbas Hashemi , Ghaffari Farzaneh
Published: November 2021

A natural compound of marine herbal origin has been used in Persian Traditional Medicine to relieve some symptoms of multiple sclerosis. The present study investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of a patented extracts of the traditional receipt (MS14). In this preliminary experiment, we used seven groups of six rats: the control group received vehicle, the two positive control groups were treated with either sodium salicylate (300 mg/kg) intraperitoneal (i.p.) or methyl prednisolon (MPN 10 mg/kg) i.p., while the test groups were treated with a solution centrifuged MS14 (SANT 100 mg/kg) and suspension of MS14 (SUSP 100, 150, 300 mg/kg) i.p. After thirty minutes, paw volume was measured by plethysmometer and immediately formalin solution was injected subcutaneously into the hind paw and after an hour, inflamed paw volume was measured. In days 2-8, the inflamed paw volume was measured and immediately drugs were injected i.p. The anti-inflammatory effect of MPN was significant only on days 5 and 6. The anti-inflammatory effect of SS was significant only on the 6th day, while the anti-inflammatory effect of SANT MS14 (100 mg/kg) was also significant only on the 6th day. SUSP MS14 (150 mg/kg) significantly reduced edema from second to 6th day. Intra-peritoneal injection of SUSP MS14 with 300 mg/kg was toxic, so excluded from the study. This research indicates that the MS14 possesses an anti-inflammatory effect after intra-peritoneal administration. Comparative anti-inflammatory effects of MS14 with Glucocorticoids in this study, may justify a possible mechanism for its action in multiple sclerosis, if further studies will provid strong statistically confirmatory effects in animals and safety human trials.
Existential therapy versus acceptance and commitment therapy for feelings of loneliness and irrational beliefs in male prisoners
Authors: Ziaee Abolfazl , Nejat Hamid , Amarghan Hossein Akbari , Fariborzi Elham
Published: November 2021

Today’s people live in a society with many dangers to their peace and security. The effectiveness of different therapies in psychological variables needs to be evaluated to reach the most precise therapies based on research evidence. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of existential therapy (ET) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) in alleviating the loneliness and irrational beliefs of male prisoners. In the present quasi-experimental study, the statistical population consisted of all married male prisoners aged between 25 to 45 years in Mashhad Central Prison in the first half of 2017. Among the statistical population, 36 people were selected and then randomly placed in three research groups. The two experimental groups underwent eight separate intervention sessions, ET, and ACT. At the beginning and end of the study, all of the three groups were evaluated by a research questionnaire, including the loneliness scale. The results of data analysis showed that, in comparison with the control group, the changes in the other two groups under ET and ACT were significant as to the feeling of loneliness and irrational beliefs of prisoners. However, there was no significant difference between the effects of these two treatments. The present research was limited in the case of examining the follow-up stage due to lack of access and cooperation of the subjects, incorporating some control variables (such as the history of substance use and psychiatry), and employing other evaluation methods (e.g., interview). It is highly suggested that future research should address these limitations.
Omega-3 PUFAs and gut microbiota: A preventive approach for colorectal cancer
Authors: Giammanco Marco , Mazzola Margherita , Giammanco Manfredi Marco , Tomasello Giovanni , Carini Francesco
Published: November 2021

The influence of diet on the composition of the intestinal microbiota and related pathologies has been known for some time. Some classes of nutrients, such as fatty acids belonging to the omega 3 series, have particular effects on the bacteria that make up the intestinal microbiota. ω-3 PUFAs affect the gut microbiota in three different ways: by modulating the type and abundance of intestinal bacteria, by regulate SCFAs levels, and by alter the levels of proinflammatory mediators. Through these modalities, ω-3 PUFAs could be useful for the prevention of intestinal diseases such as Colorectal Cancer (CRC). The ability of ω-3 PUFAs to modulate the intestinal inflammatory response, to preserve the integrity of the intestinal mucosa and to modulate the bacterial composition of the intestine, could be useful as a preventive strategic approach to hinder the development of CRC.
The Long Wait for Diagnosis
Authors: Nair S. Lakshmi , Khandelwal Monika , Nair Arya Sree , Latheef Binshy , Menon Unnikrishnan
Published: November 2021

Bacterial parotitis is most commonly due to oral or dental focus in non-immunocompromised patients. Ultrasonography and guided aspiration are the diagnostic tools, and appropriate antibiotics and supportive medications are the treatment modality. A diagnosis of tubercular parotitis is extremely rare and can be a cause for concern with regard to delayed diagnosis and the possibility of complications. The present case report is about such a case: a young lady with no comorbidities presenting with initial diagnosis of parotid abscess. Evolution and management of the case, with relevant literature, are discussed.
Adverse Effects of Using Masks, Sanitizer, and Gloves Among Healthcare Workers In A Tertiary Care Center During the Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Anand Anju , Narayanan Namratha K. , Pradeep Midhuna , Shanavas Nandana , Anil Anuvinda , Bhavani Nisha , Nair Anjana S.
Published: November 2021

Background and Objectives:

The ongoing coronavirus pandemic was first identified in Wuhan, Hubei, China on December 2019. India reported its first case on January 30, 2020 in Kerala. As COVID-19 is mostly a droplet infection, it necessitates the use of masks, gloves, and sanitizers for containing its spread. This study aims to understand the potential adverse effects of constant use of masks, gloves, and sanitizers among healthcare workers (HCWs).

Materials and Methods:

This is a cross-sectional study conducted among 165 HCWs from a single tertiary healthcare center in Kerala using a validated questionnaire. Data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel and SPSS version 20.

Results:

Among 165 participants, the most common adverse effects due to mask usage were dermatological in nature (57%). With regard to sanitizers, majority experienced dryness of hands (53.3%). Gloves were well tolerated with 62% of the participants reporting no adverse effects.

Conclusion:

Prolonged use of mask, sanitizer, and gloves has caused adverse effects in majority of HCWs surveyed. As the pandemic still stands as a crisis, it is necessary to identify solutions to manage these adverse effects for the betterment of the health of our HCWs.
Portfolio During Community Medicine Academic Residency Training in India
Authors: Kumbha Gopi , Sahu Subhakanta , Sahoo Bimal Kumar , Taywade Manish
Published: November 2021

Competency-based medical education focusses on performance and outcome. The work-based assessment methods assess the highest level of Miller’s pyramid of assessment (Does). The portfolio is one of the methods needs to be implemented in medical education. Learning and assessment are two vital components of training of any medical resident. Portfolio-based learning not only keeps the resident updated but also increases his/her professional growth exponentially. The portfolio is not a new concept but its use in medical residency is yet to be practised universally.
Roles of hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase trifunctional multienzyme complex subunit alpha, a lipid metabolism enzyme, in Wilms tumor patients
Authors: Wu Xiangyu , Feng Run , Wang Xiaoqing , Guo Feng , Liu Wei
Published: November 2021

Objectives:

Wilms tumor is a common pediatric malignant tumor that accounts for approximately 95% of kidney tumors in children. The role of lipid metabolism in tumors has attracted increased attention in recent years. We examined the role of hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase trifunctional multienzyme complex subunit alpha (HADHA), a lipid metabolism enzyme, in the pathogenesis of Wilms tumor.

Materials and Methods:

In a previous study, we screened Wilms tumors and adjacent normal tissues for differentially expressed proteins by mass spectrometry and verified the results by western blot analysis. The Oncomine database and quantitative reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction were used to verify the expression of HADHA at the genetic level. Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence were also used to validate the differential expression of the HADHA protein. The relationship between histopathological typing, clinical pathology, and HADHA expression was analyzed in 65 paraffin-embedded specimens from pediatric Wilms tumor patients. Kaplan–Meier survival curves were used to analyze the relationship between the expression of HADHA and patient prognosis.

Results:

HADHA was expressed at low levels in Wilms tumor tissue compared with the corresponding normal tissue. The expression of HADHA was closely associated with histopathological typing (P = 0.030). The prognostic analysis of 65 children with Wilms tumor showed that high expression of HADHA was closely associated with poor prognosis (P = 0.046).

Conclusions:

HADHA expression is downregulated in Wilms tumor tissues, but high expression in tumor tissues is associated with clinical stage and the prognosis of children with this tumor.
Successful treatment with durvalumab: A case report and review
Authors: Peláez Bejarano Ana , Montero Pérez Olalla
Published: November 2021

Stage III non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) represents a heterogeneous group of disease entities with multimodality treatments. For most patients, platinum-based doublet with concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CRT) has become the first-choice treatment over the past decade. Immune checkpoint inhibition has revolutionized the management of metastatic NSCLC; however, no major advances in systemic therapy for Stage III NSCLC have been made. The following report is the case of a patient with unresectable Stage IIIA NSCLC successfully treated with durvalumab. The patient completed 1 year of treatment without interruptions, and disease control has been maintained for more than 20 months since the start of durvalumab.
Soft-Chewable Paracetamol Tablets by Melt Granulation Method
Authors: Sabere Awis Sukarni Mohmad , Suhaimi Nur Anis Najlaa Mohd , Ahmed Qamar Uddin , Mahat Mohd Muzamir , Roslan Nazreen Che , Azizi Juzaili
Published: November 2021

Background:

Oral drug delivery is the most preferred route for drug administration in the world, with tablets being one of the most common dosage forms. However, some people, particularly children and the elderly, have difficulty swallowing the tablets. Chewable tablets are the dosage form that can address the issue while also providing a valuable masking effect on drug taste, allowing patients to swallow the drugs more easily.

Materials and Methods:

In this study, the chewable tablets were manufactured using the melt granulation method, which resulted in tablets with a chewy texture. The tablets contained paracetamol as well as Arabic gum, starch, agar, and mannitol.

Results:

The drug release profiles for the fragmented form showed that 50% of the drug was released within 4 min and 100% was released within 30 min of the dissolution process. The intact form released nearly 90% of the drug within 2 h.

Conclusion:

Formulation 2 was determined as the best formulation. This tablets' formulation had passed all characterization tests and displayed a moderate hardness and chewy texture.
Impacts of dam construction on the macroinvertebrate community in the Poxin-Açú, in a tropical region
Authors: Vasco Anderson Nascimento do , Oliveira Amanda Vaz de Souza , Feitosa Geovane Alves , Araújo-Piovezan Talita Guimarães , Alves Agripino Emanuel Oliveira , Dantas José Oliveira
Published: November 2021

River regularization plays an important role in socio economic development. However, it also modifies the natural flow system of the river and its biotic and abiotic characteristics, causing significant impacts on rivers. To evaluate the impacts on the macroinvertebrate community caused by dam construction on the Poxim-Açú River, metrics of composition and community structure of the macroinvertebrates were analyzed, as well as ecological and biological traits of the region. Macroinvertebrates were collected at three sites located downstream the dam, before (2013) and after (2015) dam construction. The water quality was classified as “good” to “excellent” according to the biotics indices. The alterations of the flow regime of the river after the dam construction influenced the macroinvertebrate communities, modifying their diversity, equitability, richness, and the number of individuals.

Keywords: bioindicators, dam impacts, environmental monitoring.
Low-cost material as active substrates for the removal of phosphorus in synthetic effluents: a proposal for social treatment technology
Authors: Soares Ana Caroline da Silva , Naval Liliana Pena
Published: November 2021

Considering the importance of the development of simplified technologies and social control in sanitation actions, this study investigated the use of laterite for phosphorus removal in synthetic effluents, through adsorption, as a low-cost alternative with the possibility of reusing the generated effluent, for communities where access to sanitation is limited. In the experimental design, the variables pH, contact time, granulometry and laterite dosage were used. Factorial planning was used for processing, for optimization and desirability. It was observed that the removal efficiency did not have significant interference in relation to the pH and contact-time variables. The kinetics of the batch experiments showed that the ideal contact time was 6.4 hours and pH of around 4. The adsorption capacity was plotted against equilibrium concentration for the Freundlich and Langmuir isotherms. The Langmuir isotherm was more suitable for phosphorus adsorption. The results show that laterite was effective in phosphorus adsorption in the order of removal of 87%, showing itself to be a potential adsorbent material.

Keywords: laterite, phosphate adsorption, simplified effluent treatment.
Case Report: Chronic Cavitatory Pulmonary Aspergillosis after COVID-19
Authors: Chaurasia Sheetal , Thimmappa Manjunath , Chowdhury Saurav
Published: November 2021

Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis can present in four distinct clinical syndromes, one of which is chronic cavitary pulmonary aspergillosis (CCPA). CCPA is generally associated with a mildly immunosuppressed state or, in immunocompetent patients, with structural lung damage. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection has been associated with reactivation of previous quiescent infections such as tuberculosis and invasive fungal infections, but CCPA in a patient with COVID-19 is rarely reported. Here we present the case of a 57-year-old man with CCPA associated with COVID-19 infection in whom latent aspergilloma was most likely activated after SARS-CoV-2 infection. The patient presented with severe COVID and, after initial response to treatment, started to deteriorate due to reactivation of latent aspergilloma to a more aggressive CCPA form. After confirmation of the diagnosis, the patient was initiated on treatment with voriconazole. He showed a good response to treatment with clinicoradiological response. This case also depicts one of the common causes of clinical deterioration in otherwise recovering COVID-19 patients.
Effect of methanol extract of Anacardium occidentale stem bark on agonist-induced contraction in rat uterine muscle
Authors: Omolaso B. O.
Published: November 2021

Anacardium occidentale (Ao) is widely used in ethnomedicine and the effect on contractility of the gut and heart muscles of laboratory rodents have been established however, its effect on the contractility of uterine muscle has been rarely researched. The present study investigated the effect of stem bark methanolic extract of Anacardium occidentale (AoME) on Isolated Rat Uterus Strips (IRUS). The Anacardium occidentale methanol extract (AoME) was obtained by solvent extraction. The IRUS were suspended in a bath containing 15 ml of De Jalon's solution through a silk connected to a force transducer. A tension of 1.0 g was applied. The strips were allowed to equilibrate for a period of 60–90 min before the commencement of the experiment. The extract (0.025- 0.3mg/ml) added cumulatively did not modify the normal tonus in most of the IRUS used except in one where it feebly contracted it. However, the contractile responses induced by acetylcholine (10-9 -10-5 M) and oxytocin (10-9 -10-5 M) on the IRUS were almost completely blocked by pre-incubated AoME at a concentration of 0.2 mg/ml. Stem bark methanol extract of Anacardium occidentale shifted the log concentration curve of both agonists to the right. The present results report the antagonistic effects of stem bark methanol extract of Anacardium occidentale on oxytocin and acetylcholine-induced contraction in rat uterus strips.

Keywords: Anacardium occidentale, Oxytocin, Acetylcholine, Uterus, Smooth muscle
Modelling and optimization of metals (As, Ca, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mg, and Pb) and Ethylene glycol butyl ether in paints using response surface method
Authors: Apanpa-Qasim A. F. I. , Adeyi A. O. , Deshmukh Sharvari
Published: November 2021

Response surface methodology (RSM) and principal component analyses (PCA) modelling tools have been used in this study to quantitatively describe the interaction effects of more than one factor on system response for the modelling and optimization of experimental data. In Nigeria, there are no stringent policies in place by the government on paint production and this has led to unregulated paint products by producers in the commercial markets. Water-based paints currently available in Nigerian market were sampled. Experimental data of Metals (As, Ca, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mg, and Pb) and Ethylene glycol butyl ether (Volatile organic compounds (VOC)) measured using Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectrometer (ICP-OES) and Gas Chromatography-Flame Ionisation Detector (GC-FID), respectively was used to develop a mathematical model. The principal component analyses were explained with a cumulative variance of 82% for the VOC and 76% for metals based on manufacturers. Estimated responses were compared with the experimentally determined responses and prediction capabilities of Response Surface Methodology. In the RSM, the 2 developed model had R value of 0.9569, with optimized value at 0.10 % (1000ppm) of Ethylene glycol butyl ether and concentration (ppm) ranges of As (383.0-1,930.0), Ca (614.0-10,400.0), Cd (98.0-2,000.0), Cr (10.3- 225.0), Cu (133.0-1,840.0), Fe 742.0-2,910.0, Mg (4,000.0-99,510.0), Pb (170.0-3,230.0). The correlation and optimization study employed are applicable for assessing the impact of hazardous air pollutants on indoor air quality and a good applicability in paint industries to produce products within the set limit of international standards. For the purpose of reducing sick building syndrome and protecting public health, it was important to investigate paints and sealers extensively.

Keywords: VOCs; Paint; metals; Ethylene glycol butyl ether; Response Surface Method
New Intelligent Control of Auto-self Defensive Unmanned Aerial Vehicle
Authors: El-Diwiny Marwa A. , M. El-Sayed Abou-Hashema
Published: November 2021

This paper handle a new terminology of the field of the unmanned aerial vehicle is Auto-self defensive UAV, by using new configuration of x-band Doppler surface distribution. The aim of this research is to make UAV can avoid any directed missiles at small time delay before the collision. The intelligent control will process the data of the hypothetical missiles by using supercomputing and send it to the inertial navigation system to correct the path of UAV every sample time against the missile. The goal is to make intelligent UAV that can maneuver the missile and never collide with it.
Dynamics of Employee Retention Among SMEs in a Developing Economy
Authors: Sanda Aminu , Ntsiful Alex
Published: November 2021

The purpose of this study was to understand the challenges SME managers in a developing economy such as Ghana face in retaining their employees and how the situation could be mediated. This is because Ghanaian small and mediumsize enterprises are overwhelmed with the issue of how to retain their employees. Using a quantitative approach, data was collected from a sample of 300 SME managers and employees in fifteen small and medium firms in the manufacturing, financial, hospitality, IT, retail and service industries, it was found that the firms’ HR practices significantly impact negatively employee retention. It is therefore concluded that the best retention strategies available to SMEs in Ghana is the need to adopt a flexible workplace practices and work family support policies as well as focusing on good reward management practices.
Desempenho e mortalidade de láparos da raça Nova Zelândia Branco em ninhadas de diferentes tamanhos
Authors: Silva Guilherme , Silva Edson , Ribeiro Beatriz , Batista Polyana , Leite Silvio , Miranda Vitor , Ribeiro Leonir , Toledo Juliana , Castilha Leandro
Published: November 2021

The aim was to evaluate the performance and mortality of New Zealand White rabbits in litters of different sizes. Forty does were used, with an average age of 19 months (± 4.26), distributed in a randomized block design with five treatments (6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 suckling rabbits / litter) and eight replicates per treatment, each cage (doe + litter) constituting an experimental unit. The experimental period was 35 days, from birth to weaning. Every seven days, suckling rabbits were counted and weighed, from birth to weaning. The parameters adopted were: body weight of the doe, average number of suckling rabbits, average weight of the litter, total feed consumption, weight variation of the doe, mortality rate, weaning rate, weaned suckling rabbits / litter, weight gain of the litter and average weight of the weaned rabbit. There was a difference in treatments on the mortality rate (P <0.05), which was similar in litters with 6 to 8 suckling rabbits, reaching 21.67%, and higher for litters with 9 and 10 suckling rabbits, reaching 33.33%. The number of weaned suckling rabbits / litter was higher (P <0.05) for litters that started lactation with 8 or more suckling rabbits, with values ranging between 6.13 and 6.67. Even so, the birth weight of the suckling rabbits was lower (P <0.05) for litters with 9 or 10 animals, calculated values were 54 and 48g, respectively. In litters with 6, 7 and 8 suckling rabbits, birth weights were higher and similar to each other, corresponding to 69, 65 and 61g, respectively. Litters with up to 8 suckling rabbits have the highest birth weight, the best performance indexes during lactation and weaning, the lowest mortality rate and the smallest weight variation for the does.
A Study on the Strategy of Non-face-to-face Writing Lectures in the Post-Corona Era －Based on PBL-based Thinking and Expression
Authors: Kim Nam-kyu
Published: November 2021

The liberal arts lecture called “thinking and expression” aims to provide a foundation for improving basic and professional communication skills to be used in universities and societies.
However, it is true that “thinking and expression” is being developed as a writing-oriented lecture at each university, and online lectures in the current non-face-to-face situation expose various limitations due to the nature of writing. As a result, the following conclusions were obtained by reviewing the PBL lecture module of K University.
First, theory-oriented writing classes do not stimulate students' interest in non-face-to-face situations, and existing writing textbooks also need to be extensively supplemented suitable for non-face-to-face situations. In non-face-to-face situations, writing lectures face contradictions that have no choice but to return to theory rather than practice, so it is imperative to develop online writing lecture modules in the university itself to improve the quality of lectures.
Second, discussion classes based on PBLs are a priority to forestall various problems that can occur in non-face-to-face classes. It is important to consider using the video conference platform to facilitate communication between students in non-face-to-face situations as much as possible, but to encourage direct conversation to build intimacy rather than chatting. In order to become a PBL differentiated from the existing group learning, we pay more attention to the problem-solving process itself, and lead cooperative learning to more actively respond to social problems and find practical solutions through the ‘living lab’ method.
Third, in non-face-to-face writing, the interaction between students and professors is absolute, and the process of writing and correcting together is important to form communication. Along with real-time lectures using video conferencing platforms, it is very important for professors to continue to show interest in students' writings and feedback them one by one.
Using the Technology Acceptance Model to Understand Attitudes about a Virtual Learning Environment for EFL Writing
Authors: Copeland Charles , Franzese John
Published: November 2021

This quantitative case study used Venkatesh and Davis’ (2000) technology acceptance model (TAM) to understand EFL student attitudes towards using a virtual learning environment (VLE). The study surveyed 97 undergraduate students enrolled in a required English writing course. The study employed factor reduction to group the variables into the TAM. A standard multiple regression was then performed to determine the effect the variables had on the model. It was found that the perceived ease of use (EoU), output quality (OQ), and results demonstrability (RD) had a positive statistical effect on the perceived usefulness (PU). The subjective norm (SN), EoU, and PU also had a positive statistical effect on the students' intention to use (IU) the VLE for writing. The final standardized regression found a positive statistical effect from IU towards the students' usage behavior (UB). The overall results showed that the more positive a student's EoU, OQ, RD, SN, PU, and IU, the more likely a student will use and accept the VLE for writing. This usage should also help students improve their language level as well as build 4th industrial revolution skills. Teachers should consider the use of VLEs to teach or supplement EFL writing in the future.
A Study on Performance Diagnosis of College English Courses in General Education after Core Competency-Based Reform －The Case of I University
Authors: Chong Cinthia M.
Published: November 2021

This study conducted a basic learning performance diagnosis for each College English course falling under the purview of basic general education. In line with the five core competencies of I University, the area of foreign language in basic general education focused on communication competency. This study explored the reactions of students taking College English courses to examine whether each course matched the core competency focused on communication, especially the basic learning competence for English communication skills and experiences acquired through the knowledge provided and what changes were needed in the curriculum to improve students’ English communication competence.
Through a survey, educational improvements recognized by students who participated in College English I (reading), College English II (listening), and College English III (speaking) classes were compared and analyzed. The performance diagnosis for the study aimed to measure learning performance obtained through each course and utilize it as a basic mean for improving curricula for College English courses. For performance diagnosis, the Learning Performance Diagnosis Tool developed by the Korea National Institute for General Education’s General Education Standards in 2016 was selected. Diagnosis questions from the areas of “basic learning competency” and “knowledge and experience” were selected, and each question was measured using a 5-point Likert scale. The performance diagnosis survey involved 1,366 of 2,063 students (66.2%) in all three courses.
Based on the analysis result, students reported that their English communication competency had improved in each course. This result could be interpreted as indicating that the core competency pursed in the area of foreign language at I University and the direction of education pursued in College English courses were appropriate. However, slightly different from basic learning competence area, the performance indicators relating to class activities questions in knowledge and experience area were found to be lower than that of other questions. During the semester, online and offline classes had been conducted depending on the COVID-19 situation, and it can be assumed that this situation resulted in many inconveniences in terms of utilizing effective class activities where students could interact with the professor and classmates. It also seemed urgent to develop effective non-face-to-face or online class activities to prepare for the COVID-19 pandemic era.
Development of “Digital Humanities” as a Liberal Arts Class at University
Authors: Chong Ki-In , Jeong Sang woo
Published: November 2021

The purpose of this study is to explore the curriculum and educational contents of four Korean universities that are educating or plan to educate their students in the Digital Humanities, as well as to find and develop Digital Humanities classes suitable for one semester within their liberal arts education classes. As a result of the survey, the four universities were classified according to the affiliation of the students’ subject at each school and the level of programming related to data processing. A and B universities’ Digital Humanities major students were predominantly from liberal arts majors, C universities students consisted both of liberal arts and science and engineering majors, and D universities students’ majors were science and engineering. Universities from group A used basic Google apps and Excel, but D universities used higher-level programming languages. However, Digital Humanities classes at these universities are based on a three-step course: First, education involving basic concepts for Digital Humanities and basic tools for data analysis. Second, search for applicability to Digital Humanities through existing majors. Third, the practical application and creation of the Digital Humanities project. Accordingly, this study sought ways to effectively convey this three-step process in the short period of one semester and devised a detailed lecture outline.
A Study on the Development of Evaluation Criteria for Quality Management of General Education Curriculum
Authors: Kang Jihye , Son Bok-Eun
Published: November 2021

This study was conducted to develop evaluation criteria to manage and improve the quality of the university's General Education curriculum. To this end, the evaluation area and evaluation criteria for the management of the quality of education were first derived through literature research. The evaluation tool obtained feasibility of feasibility verification and research results through two revised Delphi surveys (N=10). as well as through meetings with practitioners(N=7) in charge of quality management of the liberal curriculum. The results are as follows. First, this study developed a systematic evaluation criteria for the entire curriculum, such as curriculum development, support, operation, performance and improvement, rather than fragmenting the curriculum based on the CIPP evaluation model. Second, this study applied modified Delphi techniques to manage the quality of the General Education curriculum to derive a total of seven sub-items and 17 evaluation criteria. Also, the content feasibility (CVI) and inter-evaluator agreement(IRA) results developed evaluation criteria with a validity score above 0.80. Based on these findings, the university presented measures and implications for managing the quality of the liberal arts curriculum.
The Role of the Association of Colleges and Technical Schools of Transport in Industry Education
Authors: Razinkin N. I.
Published: November 2021

The role of the non-profit organization “Association of colleges and technical schools of transport” in solving problems related to the modernization of transport education is considered. Today the Association is an effective tool for feedback with educational organizations in promoting innovative projects in the field of education.

Association pays special attention to coordinating the development of new industry competencies WorldSkills.

The need for the creation of new competencies is revealed, as a rule, in preparation for a new championship cycle, the introduction of demonstration exam technologies or the development of the championship movement in production, in a region or a university.

The idea of joining efforts with colleges and technical schools of sea and river transport of industrial university complexes within the framework of the Association, which is actively supported by the Ministry of Transport of Russia, is becoming significant. This is a further perspective, the next step in the development of the Association.

To do together what we cannot do alone is the leitmotif of the activities of the Association, which opens up the opportunity for all members of the Association to reach new educational frontiers.
Development of competencies according to WorldSkills Russia standards and opening of championship lines
Authors: Bogacheva O. S.
Published: November 2021

The appearance of the new federal educational standards for secondary vocational education has given rise to two tools: the WorldSkills competitive movement and the independent assessment of qualifications. Today, the state final certification should be conducted in the form of a defense of the final qualification work, in the form of a thesis (diploma project) and a demonstration exam, which requires specialized sites (equipped with modern technological equipment) that allow you to perform tasks that are provided for in the passport of competencies according to the WorldSkills model. This entails financial costs for educational organizations: either for the participation and use of a specialized site on the basis of a third-party organization, or for the creation of new competencies and the development of the material and technical base of their educational institution.

The article describes the experience of the teachers of the Tikhoretsk Technical School of Railway Transport in developing competencies according to WorldSkills standards, as well as the problems and ways of developing championship lines in railway specialties. The creation of new competencies, the development of an expert community, the interaction of educational organizations and the holding of competitions according to WorldSkills standards brings changes to the system of secondary vocational education and sets the pace in the development of championship lines.
Cognitive analysis of locomotive control automation in different countries of the world
Authors: Khabarov M. D. , Sugorovsky A. V.
Published: November 2021

Automation of freight train management will help reduce the number of employees involved in traffic management, reduce the costs of railway companies associated with paying wages to employees, increase profits and increase competitive advantages over other modes of transport.

Within the framework of technical progress for the development of railway technology, the automation of rolling stock control systems in the current period is one of the essential tasks. In the transport sector of the national economy, the development of unmanned movement technology is observed due to the introduction of an automatic control system, which should ensure the safety, conduct and control of the train, monitor the free path, identify and handle emergency situations. It is of great importance to create modern digital platforms that improve the safety and efficiency of transportation.

The article discusses the maximum levels of automation of control of main-line freight trains and shunting locomotives, which some countries of the world have managed to achieve.
Signaling on the railway transport of Russia. History of origin and development
Authors: Prisyazhnenko A. I.
Published: November 2021

The development of humanity is impossible without means of signaling. Signaling in any sphere of human activity has always been a means of ensuring the safety of his life. One of these areas was railway transport, the development of which and, accordingly, signalling facilities began in the early 19th century.

With the progress of technological progress in Russia, signaling tools have also evolved, which have gone from the simplest sound and optical signals to modern ones using satellite technologies. Naturally, this path in the technical evolution of mankind is of interest to scientists and just curious people, since knowledge of the stages of the origin and development of signaling allows contemporaries to improve it and at the same time not forget the basics of this area.

As a result of this process, the signaling system on railway transport, its means have undergone serious changes. Primitive ways of giving commands - optical (disk, flag) and sound (whistle) to the participants of the movement were pushed by more modern means of signaling, which already involve microprocessor technology and satellite technologies.

An example of modern signaling means is the automatic locomotive signaling of a single row of continuous type (ALS-EN). The signal of this type of signaling is more informative: it contains information about the number of free block sections ahead of the train, as well as about the permissible speed of its movement.