bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Collaborating Glitches of Students and Classroom Diplomatic Handling of Teachers in Public Elementary Schools
Authors: Siton Rovelyn A. , Baguio Josephine B.
Published: December 2024

This study aimed to determine the extent of collaborating glitches of students and classroom diplomatic handling of teachers in the classroom. Additionally, to determine the significant relationship between collaborating glitches of students and classroom diplomatic handling of teachers in the classroom in public elementary schools in Panabo District, Division of Davao del Norte. This study employed a descriptive-correlation method with 138 public elementary school teachers as respondents. Data were gathered using a self-made questionnaire directly administered to them. Universal sampling was used, making all population members part of the study. The statistical tools used were mean and product moment correlation or Pearson r. The foregoing conclusions show that the level of collaborating glitches in students was high and oftentimes manifested.  Moreover, the level of classroom diplomatic handling of teachers was high and oftentimes manifested. There was no significant relationship between the collaborating glitches of students and the classroom diplomatic handling of teachers. Also, there was a significant influence between collaborating glitches of students and the classroom diplomatic handling of teachers. It is recommended that the teachers may continue to improve the collaborating glitches of students and ensure diplomatic handling by teachers in the classroom to create an environment conducive to learning and personal growth. Collaboration among students often faces challenges such as differing opinions, varying work spaces, or misunderstandings, which can hinder group dynamics and productivity.
Enhancing Box Type Solar Cookers by Using Jatropha Oil as Sensible Heat Storage Medium
Authors: Nébié Jacques , Haro Kayaba , Ouédraogo Drissa , Daniel Koumbem W. N. , Ouédraogo Boukaré , Bagré Boubou , Konkobo Iliyassé , Korsaga Armand , Zongo Sidiki , Daho Tizane , Béré Antoine
Published: December 2024

This research paper is based on an assessment of the performance of a box-type solar cooker insulated with kapok wool and incorporating a thermal heat storage unit. The heat storage material used in this work is Jatropha Curcas seed oil which is available locally as well as kapok wool. The realized can offer an economically viable alternative while avoiding environmental deterioration caused by the significant use of biomass and fossil energy sources for cooking purposes. The different tests based on existing standards permitted to determine the thermal performance parameters of the cooker such as the first figure of merit (F1) and the second figure of merit (F2) which were determined to be F1= 0.13 and F2= 0.31. The cooker efficiency η = 47.07 %. The American Society of Agricultural Engineers for Solar Cooking (ASAE S580.1) is used to determine the cooking power and it is found to be P =123.2 W. In addition, a cooking test enabled to cook 0.5 kg of beans for around 3 hours.
Elimination of Sulfate Ions in Water by Addition of an Acidified Calcium Carbonate Suspension
Authors: Mahaman Attika Sabiou , Ousmane Mamane Imrana Chaibou , Manzola Abdou Salam , Mouhamadou Zeinabou , Awali Abdoul Bari Idi
Published: December 2024

In humans, long-term consumption of water with sulfate levels between 500–750 mg/l can lead to laxative effects, catharsis, dehydration, and irritation of the gastrointestinal tract. As a result, sulfate removal has been widely studied by researchers globally. This study focuses on the elimination of excess sulfate ions in water under controlled stirring and by adding an acidified calcium carbonate suspension. Experimental parameters such as the mass of calcium carbonate and the concentration of hydrochloric acid are studied in order to follow the mechanism of elimination of sulfate ions. Kinetic monitoring of the residual sulfate concentration by nephelometry shows a progressive drop in the sulfate ion concentration. The variation of calcium carbonate is indifferent on the quantity of sulfates eliminated. The influence of the concentration of hydrochloric acid studied shows a maximum elimination when this concentration is 0.2 mol/L. X-ray diffraction analysis of the solids obtained revealed the presence of gypsum, thus supporting that sulfate ions are eliminated by a process that involves its formation.
From Grain to Gut Health: Ragi Milk Extraction and Probiotic Product Development
Authors: Murari Bhawna , Singh Rashmi
Published: December 2024

This study aimed to optimize ragi milk extraction and develop probiotic-rich dairy alternatives at the Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur. Ragi grains were pre-treated through soaking, germination, and drying to enhance milk extraction efficiency. Probiotic products, including ragi curd, ice cream, and ambli, were formulated and evaluated using sensory and nutritional analyses. The physical properties of ragi, such as uniform size, high density, and sphericity, underscored its suitability for food processing. Proximate analysis showed that ragi grains, compared to ragi malt, had lower moisture and higher fat and fibre content, enhancing storage stability. Sensory evaluations indicated that ragi curd was well-received, while ragi ice cream and one version of ragi ambli were particularly favoured for taste and overall acceptability. This research contributes to the development of nutritious, sustainable plant-based dairy alternatives, promoting millet consumption.
Comparative Evaluation of Fracture Resistance, Deformation and Patency Efficiency of Reciprocating and Rotary Glide Path Files: An In vitro Study
Authors: Alves Luiz Carlos Costa Madeira , Amador Gabriela Mendes , Magalhães-Saldanha Júlia , Silva-Filho José Evando da , Gomes Fábio de Almeida , Viana Luiz Carlos Trevia Morais Correia , Gurgel-Filho Eduardo Diogo
Published: December 2024

Aims: To evaluate the performance of reciprocating and rotary Glide Path files in human permanent mandibular molars, focusing on instrument fracture, deformation, and patency rates.
Study Design: The study was a comparative analysis conducted to evaluate the incidence of instrument failure and the success rates in reaching working length using different file systems.
Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted on human permanent mandibular molars at the University of Fortaleza, from January 2024 to June 2024.
Methodology: A total of 150 human permanent mandibular molars were selected and randomly assigned into three groups (n=50). The groups were treated with R-Pilot®, Wave One Gold Glider®, and ProDesign Logic® 15.03 files. Instrument fracture and deformation rates were recorded, and the percentage of Glide Path instruments that reached the working length was noted. Data were managed and analyzed using Excel and statistical analyses were performed using Stata 10 software.
Results: The Wave One Gold Glider® group exhibited the highest incidence of fractures and deformations, with only 4 intact files at the conclusion of the study, showing statistically worse results compared to the other file systems. No significant differences were found between the R-Pilot® and ProDesign Logic® groups. The mesiobuccal root canals had the highest failure rate in achieving foraminal patency, with 24 canals not reaching patency. Conversely, the mesiolingual root canals were the most successful, achieving initial exploration in 102 canals.
Conclusion: The reciprocating system Wave One Gold Glider® did not show superiority over the rotary system Pro Design Logic® under the conditions tested. The findings also highlight the high patency rates achieved by Glide Path files and the differences in performance between the various systems tested. The Glide Path files demonstrated high patency rates, ranging from 81% to 88%.
Green Gold: Sustainable Biodiesel Production and Bioactive Compounds Extraction from Microalgae
Authors: Bajwa Kulvinder , Bishnoi Narsi R. , Selven Silambarasan Tamil
Published: December 2024

Microalgae have attracted significant interest from both scientific and industrial sectors as a potential source of high-lipid feedstock for biodiesel production. Current research has mainly emphasized on the production of biodiesel from algal biomass, with a focus on collecting, isolating, screening, and characterizing suitable algal species. In this regard, a total of sixty-seven microalgal strains were isolated from both freshwater and marine sources across various regions. The screening for high-lipid microalgae strains was conducted using the Nile Red method to identify neutral lipid droplets. Out of the sixty-seven strains, four promising biodiesel-producing strains Chlorococcum aquaticum, Scenedesmus obliquus, Nannochloropsis oculata, and Chlorella pyrenoidosa were selected based on their high lipid and biomass accumulation, Among the prescreened algal strains, Scenedesmus obliquus exhibited the highest biomass at 1.32±0.023 g/L, while Chlorella pyrenoidosa had a significantly higher lipid content of 15.27%. Further GC-MS (Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry) analysis was conducted to identify the free fatty acids present in the algal oil. The FAME (Fatty Acid Methyl Ester) profile revealed the presence of several key fatty acids, including palmitic acid (16:0), palmitoleic acid (C16:1), stearic acid (C18:0), and oleic acid (C18:1). Together, these fatty acids indicate that the algal strains are rich in both saturated and unsaturated fatty acids, which are key for producing high-quality biodiesel. The combination of these fatty acids suggests that the algal oil could meet the required standards for biodiesel production, offering good energy content, stability, and favorable cold-flow properties. Thus, these micro-algal strains are promising candidates for sustainable biodiesel production.
Induction Motor Voltage Variation and Fault Adaptation in Submarines
Authors: Enefiok Okpo, Ekom , Edwin Nkan, Imo , Joshua Odion, , Linus Jack, Anthony
Published: December 2024

Induction motors are critical components in submarine systems, powering propulsion and auxiliary machinery under challenging operational conditions. These motors, however, are susceptible to faults such as voltage disturbances and mechanical anomalies that can compromise performance and operational safety. This research investigates the fault adaptation mechanisms for induction motors in submarine scenarios by integrating wavelet decomposition for fault detection and undervoltage relays for fault adaptation and mitigation. Wavelet transform analysis is employed to detect transient faults, specifically voltage disturbances occurring between 0.3 and 0.7 seconds. The system identifies fault characteristics in real-time using the high-resolution capabilities of discrete wavelet transforms, allowing precise localization and classification of anomalies. An undervoltage relay, integrated into the system, adapts to the fault condition by tripping the motor at 0.54 seconds to prevent prolonged exposure to damaging voltage dips. The study utilizes MATLAB/Simulink to model and analyze a 7.5 kW, 400 V, 1440 RPM induction motor operating under realistic submarine conditions. For fault identifications, twelve different scenarios are examined: Three phase to ground fault, three phase fault, double line to ground fault (AB-G), double line to ground fault (AC-G), double line to ground fault (BC-G), line to line fault (A-B), line to line fault (A-C), line to line (B-B) fault, single line to ground fault (A-G), single line to ground fault (B-G), single line to ground fault (C-G), and no faults. Also, for fault adaptation using under-voltage relay, two different scenarios are simulated for reference purpose: single line to ground and three phase to ground. Simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the wavelet-based detection in identifying faults early and the relay's timely intervention to protect the motor. These findings highlight the viability of integrating wavelet decomposition and adaptive relay mechanisms to enhance the resilience of induction motors in submarines.
Comparative Analysis of Machine Learning and Deep Learning Models for Aspect-based Sentiment Analysis in Education
Authors: C.A. Sowndarya , Dahiya Shashi , Arora Alka , Bhardwaj Anshu , Kumar Mukesh , Ray Mrinmoy , V Ramasubramanian,
Published: December 2024

Aspect-Based Sentiment Analysis (ABSA) has emerged as a powerful technique for analyzing student feedback in educational settings, providing a deeper understanding of sentiments linked to specific aspects such as course content, instructor performance, assessment quality and technology support. Unlike traditional sentiment analysis, ABSA enables granular insights by extracting multiple aspects from a single review and assigning sentiments to each aspect independently. This study evaluates the performance of traditional Machine Learning (ML) models, including Logistic Regression (LR), Support Vector Machines (SVM), Naïve Bayes (NB), Random Forest (RF) and Gradient Boosting (GB), alongside advanced Deep Learning (DL) models such as Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP), Recurrent Neural Networks (RNN), Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) and Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers (BERT). The focus is on addressing the challenge of handling multiple aspects per review and performing aspect-specific sentiment classification. Experimental results demonstrate that BERT significantly outperforms other models in both tasks, offering superior precision, recall and F1-scores. Notably, BERT excels in handling complex, multi-aspect feedback, providing more accurate sentiment classification for each aspect. These findings highlight the importance of leveraging advanced models to analyze educational feedback effectively, enabling institutions to implement targeted improvements in key areas of learning and teaching.
Harvesting Multidirectional Breeze Energy and Self‐Powered Intelligent Fire Detection Systems Based on Triboelectric Nanogenerator and Fluid‐Dynamic Modeling
Authors: Zhang Xuemei , Hu Jie , Yang Qianxi , Yang Hongmei , Yang Huake , Li Qianying , Li Xiaochuan , Hu Chenguo , Xi Yi , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: September 2021

Fire warning and monitoring are very important for public safety and environmental protection. However, most of the proposed wind energy conversion devices based on triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) only work for unidirectional and high‐speed wind and face the challenge of fatigue damage and even failure caused by cyclic stress. Moreover, TENG guided by the theory of fluid dynamics needs further exploration. Herein, a flow‐induced vibration effect based TENG (F‐TENG) for continuously capturing and monitoring multidirectional breeze (1.8–4.3 m s−1) is developed to build a self‐powered intelligent fire detection system (SIFDS). A dynamic model is proposed to study the intrinsic interaction between the electrical properties of F‐TENG and wind. Since the model optimized F‐TENG is more adaptable to wind characteristics, it delivers better performance and higher durability compared with previous studies. Relying on the dynamic model and combining the relationship between F‐TENG's electrical output and wind characteristics, a self‐powered visual wind sensing system is obtained. F‐TENG successfully drives some electronic devices to monitor environmental information, which is expected to provide data for SIFDS to reduce fire hazards. This study can provide an in‐depth understanding of the electromechanical conversion mechanism and large‐scale capture and utilization of breeze energy.
Thiofunctionalization of Electron‐Rich Heteroarenes through Magnesiation and Trapping with Octasulfur
Authors: Vera Gonzalo , Mangeant Reynald , Stiebing Silvia , Berhault Yohann , Fabis Frédéric , Cailly Thomas , Collot Valérie
Published: September 2021

Herein we report a site‐selective and thiol‐free thiofunctionalization of electron‐rich heteroarenes. After a selective ortho‐magnesiation, the use of S8 followed by an electrophile allows direct access to S‐alkyl or ‐aryl derivatives. In situ oxidation provides the corresponding sulfoxide and sulfone derivatives. Applying this protocol, Cerlapirdine was prepared in 4 steps with 28% overall yield.

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Agronomic and physiological characteristics of high‐yielding ratoon rice varieties
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Liu Xiangchen , Yu Guilong , Wang Hao , Feng Daqing , Zhao Haiying , Liu Lijun
Published: September 2021

To clarify the agronomic and physiological characteristics of high‐yielding ratoon rice varieties, 14 rice varieties representing two types (high yield in ratoon crop [RH] and low yield in ratoon crop [RL]) were used as experimental materials. Compared with RL, the grain/leaf ratio of RH at the full heading stage in the main crop was lower. Also, the leaf area duration, net assimilation rate (NAR), crop growth rate (CGR), dry matter weight, photosynthetic rate of flag leaf, and root oxidation activity from the full heading to maturity stage in the main crop were higher. The leaf area index (LAI) and dry matter weight at maturity in the main crop were higher in RH than RL, whereas the rates of LAI attenuation, dry matter translocation and dry matter translocation efficiency (DMTE) from full heading to maturity, and harvest index (HI) in the main crop were relatively lower. The CGR, NAR, dry matter weight from full heading to maturity, and dry matter weight and root oxidation activity at maturity in the main crop were significantly and positively correlated with the yield of the ratoon crop. The rate of LAI attenuation and DMTE from full heading to maturity, grain/leaf ratio at full heading, and HI in the main crop were significantly and negatively correlated with the yield of the ratoon crop. Rational utilization of these agronomic and physiological characteristics would be helpful to screening and breeding high‐yielding rice varieties for ratoon production.
Structural disconnectivity from paramagnetic rim lesions is related to disability in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Tozlu Ceren , Jamison Keith , Nguyen Thanh , Zinger Nicole , Kaunzner Ulrike , Pandya Sneha , Wang Yi , Gauthier Susan , Kuceyeski Amy
Published: September 2021

Background

In people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS), lesions with a hyperintense rim (rim+) on Quantitative Susceptibility Mapping (QSM) have been shown to have greater myelin damage compared to rim‐ lesions, but their association with disability has not yet been investigated. Furthermore, how QSM rim+ and rim‐ lesions differentially impact disability through their disruptions to structural connectivity has not been explored. We test the hypothesis that structural disconnectivity due to rim+ lesions is more predictive of disability compared to structural disconnectivity due to rim‐ lesions.

Methods

Ninety‐six pwMS were included in our study. Individuals with Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) <2 were considered to have lower disability (n = 59). For each gray matter region, a Change in Connectivity (ChaCo) score, that is, the percent of connecting streamlines also passing through a rim‐ or rim+ lesion, was computed. Adaptive Boosting was used to classify the pwMS into lower versus greater disability groups based on ChaCo scores from rim+ and rim‐ lesions. Classification performance was assessed using the area under ROC curve (AUC).

Results

The model based on ChaCo from rim+ lesions outperformed the model based on ChaCo from rim‐ lesions (AUC = 0.67 vs 0.63, p‐value < .05). The left thalamus and left cerebellum were the most important regions in classifying pwMS into disability categories.

Conclusion

rim+ lesions may be more influential on disability through their disruptions to the structural connectome than rim‐ lesions. This study provides a deeper understanding of how rim+ lesion location/size and resulting disruption to the structural connectome can contribute to MS‐related disability.
The first cut is the deepest (and perhaps the most opportune)!
Authors: Riley Robert F. , Henry Timothy D.
Published: September 2021

Key Points

The rate of redo‐coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) nearly doubled from 5.33% in 2004 to 10.3% in 2015 and was associated with significantly higher in‐hospital major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE; OR 5.36) and mortality (OR 2.84) compared to PCI in patients with prior CABG.

Use of arterial conduits and aggressive secondary prevention post‐CABG is key to minimizing need for repeat revascularization procedures.

Post‐CABG patients requiring repeat revascularization procedures may benefit from a HEART team discussion given their elevated procedural risk profile.
Percutaneous coronary intervention outcomes in left main and multivessel disease: Navigating the patent minefield
Authors: Musumeci Giuseppe , Colopi Marzia
Published: September 2021

Key Points

The optimal management approach of left main (LM) and equivalent coronary artery disease (CAD) has been consistently debated over the years.

There are limited data on clinical and anatomic conditions influencing outcomes after elective PCI of LM and multivessel CAD.

The complexity of CAD with the intention of achieving complete revascularization, frailty metrics, as well as patient's informed preference should be adequately considered in order to improve outcome even in high‐risk percutaneous procedures.
A simple solution to deliver a second guidewire without a dual‐lumen microcatheter—The sidecar technique
Authors: Leibundgut Gregor , Büttner Heinz‐Joachim
Published: September 2021

The sidecar technique represents a simple and inexpensive solution to successfully deliver a second guidewire distally whenever a dual‐lumen microcatheter is not available.
A case of post COVID‐19 multisystem inflammatory syndrome and Bell's palsy in a young adult
Authors: Al‐Mashdali Abdulrahman F. , Al Samawi Musaed S.
Published: September 2021

The clinician should put MIS‐A at the top of differential diagnoses of a patient with febrile illness and multiple organ dysfunction during the early post‐COVID‐19 period. Also, facial nerve palsy might follow COVID‐19, related to the autoimmune phenomenon.
Transformations from cone responses to opponent color spaces
Authors: Liu Meiyue , Gao Cheng , Zhang Xiaohui , Melgosa Manuel , Xiao Kaida , Vázquez Daniel , Li Changjun
Published: September 2021

We have described a number of transformations by mapping the cone signal vector , formed by , to opponent space , formed by achromatic signal , red‐green signal and yellow‐blue signal . Two new transformations, and , are proposed, based on the CIE 2006 spectral luminous efficiency function, , and Hurvich's opponent spectral red‐green and yellow‐blue responses, and , without and with constraints, respectively. is better than in terms of best fit of and , and both transformations improved previously proposed ones. Finally, we discuss the neutral conditions in cone space using each of the new and some of the extant transformations, as well as choosing scaling factors so that the neutral conditions in cone space are satisfied.
Service function chain composition and placement using grammar‐based genetic algorithm
Authors: Khosravian Pouya , Emadi Sima , Mirjalily Ghasem , Zamani Behzad
Published: September 2021

Service function chaining (SFC) creates a requested orchestration for composition and placement of several service functions. One of the most critical issues for the service function providers is achieving the highest quality of service. We consider the problem of optimal Service Function composition and placement in an SFC‐enabled network with the aim of achieving maximum Quality of Service (QoS). To this end, a method of merging the composition, routing, and placement phases is introduced. A genetic algorithm is designed to find the service chain instance with the maximum QoS using grammar‐based Genetic Algorithm (GA) operators. This grammar is provided to filter invalid service compositions based on the data center, security, and mobile scenarios defined by Internet engineering task force. A chromosome in the proposed genetic algorithm corresponds to a service chain instance that matches the proposed grammar. For routing, strongly connected components (SCCs) are extracted to reduce search time in the network. Consequently, the search space is reduced for requests whose start and end nodes are placed in a SCC. Besides, the Floyd Warshall algorithm is used for routing between consecutive services. According to the results, the proposed method outperformed other methods in terms of the number of responded requests, runtime, and cost.
Gradient descent for quadratic functions using geometric mean and the Kai Fang method
Authors: Rim KwangCheol , Kim Pankoo , Ko Hoon
Published: September 2021

The geometric mean is typically used to measure the mean of inflation rate and population fluctuation. It is also used in the description and analysis of singularities and geometric distance spaces. Gradient descent is an integral part of artificial intelligence. In this study, we transform the gradient calculation from conventional quadratic gradient descent algorithms into a root extraction calculation using geometric means. To eliminate the computational complexity of differential operations in gradient calculation and to easily calculate roots using only fundamental arithmetic operations, we introduce the Kai Fang method, the East Asian traditional root extraction method. To do this, we propose a new quadratic gradient descent method based on geometric means and we apply the Kai Fang method with geometric means to create an improved quadratic gradient descent method. The proposed method shows improved computational ease over conventional methods.
Contrasting Effect of Side‐Chain Placement on Photovoltaic Performance of Binary and Ternary Blend Organic Solar Cells in Benzodithiophene‐Thiazolothiazole Polymers
Authors: Saito Masahiko , Ogawa Soichiro , Osaka Itaru
Published: September 2021

π‐Conjugated polymers are important materials for organic photovoltaics. While search for new backbone systems is central to the development of π‐conjugated polymers, side‐chain engineering is also imperative. Here, two benzodithiophene‐thiazolothiazole copolymers, PSTz1 and POTz1, were synthesized, for which the side‐chain placement was different. Due to less steric hindrance between the side chains, PSTz1 had a more coplanar backbone than POTz1. This led to significant differences in trend of the performance for the binary and ternary blend cells that used a fullerene (PC71BM) and/or non‐fullerene (ITIC) as the acceptor materials. Whereas PSTz1 showed higher photovoltaic performance in the PC71BM‐based cell, POTz1 showed higher performance in the ITIC‐based cell. Furthermore, in the ternary blend cell, whereas increase in the PC71BM content improved the photovoltaic performance for the PSTz1 system, it was detrimental to the performance for the POTz1 system. These results could be a good guideline for maximizing the performance of organic photovoltaics.
Wild bumble bee colony abundance, scaled by field size, predicts pollination services
Authors: McGrady C. M. , Strange J. P. , López‐Uribe M. M. , Fleischer S. J.
Published: September 2021

Although bee visitation rate to flowers is often used to assess both pollination services and bee abundance, the abundance of social species needs to be assessed by quantifying the number colonies instead of the number of foraging individuals. Because accurately quantifying the number of wild bee colonies can be difficult, the relationship of visitation rates provided by foragers and the abundance of colonies contributing those foragers from the surrounding landscape is poorly documented for social species. Here, we use genetic methods and statistical inference to estimate the abundance of wild colonies of Bombus impatiens in the surrounding landscape providing foragers to 30 commercial pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo) fields over 4 yr across a 13,000‐km2 area in Pennsylvania, USA. We show that the abundance of wild colonies in the surrounding landscape providing foragers per field (colony abundance per field) ranges from 291 to 829 colonies per field. Furthermore, colony abundance per field has been stable across years, counties, and field size, resulting in a dilution of foragers from the available colonies across larger fields. Wild colony abundance, when scaled by field size, by expressing colony abundance on a per hectare basis, is predictive of visitation rate. Thus, we document the relationship of wild colony abundance per hectare to visitation rate at a level that provides sufficient pollination to a highly pollinator‐dependent crop. As expected, genetic differentiation among sampled populations is essentially non‐existent across different fields or regions, suggesting a panmictic population. Although many Bombus species are in decline, we document abundant and genetically resilient wild populations of B. impatiens associated with a mass‐flowering crop under current agricultural practices and provide baseline information needed to monitor these wild populations at a time when they face similar stressors implicated in the decline of congenerics.
High‐definition 3D exoscope‐assisted soft palate excision and reconstruction
Authors: De Virgilio Armando , Festa Bianca Maria , Costantino Andrea , Mercante Giuseppe , Spriano Giuseppe
Published: September 2021

The 3D exoscope is a surgical visualization and magnification tool that has been recently introduced in microvascular anastomoses. However, other surgical scenarios, such as transoral surgery which has a limited surgical field visualization, may benefit from this technology as well. The 3D exoscope was used to perform the transoral excision of a tumor of the soft palate, the free flap harvesting and its insetting to reconstruct the intraoral defect, and perform the microvascular anastomosis. The 3D exoscope provided excellent visualization of the surgical field which greatly contributed to optimal surgical precision of each step involved in the excision and reconstruction. In addition, this technology enabled the surgeons to maintain ergonomic posture and gave the residents and students the chance to carefully follow and learn the surgical procedure step by step. This advanced technology has proven to benefit each phase of transoral demolition and reconstruction.
Fetal pulmonary artery Doppler evaluation in pregnant women after recovery from COVID‐19
Authors: Turgut Ezgi , Ayhan Sule Goncu , Oluklu Deniz , Tokalioglu Eda Ozden , Tekin Ozlem Moraloglu , Sahin Dilek
Published: September 2021

Objective

To evaluate fetal lung development using pulmonary artery Doppler in pregnant women who had recovered from COVID‐19.

Methods

The prospective case–control study included 41 pregnant women who had recovered from COVID‐19 and 43 healthy pregnant women (control group). All the women in the study group had been diagnosed with COVID‐19 and had completed a quarantine period.

Results

The demographic data of patients were similar in the groups (P > 0.05). Main pulmonary artery peak systolic velocity was higher and pulsatility indices were lower in pregnant women who recovered from COVID‐19 compared to the controls (P < 0.001, P = 0.001). Acceleration time, ejection time, and acceleration/ejection time ratio (PATET) of the fetal MPA Doppler were significantly decreased in pregnant women who recovered from COVID‐19 (P < 0.001, P = 0.036, and P = 0.002, respectively). The patients who had recovered from COVID‐19 were divided into two groups: those treated with expectant management and those treated in hospital. The pulmonary artery acceleration time and PATET ratio were significantly lower in the group treated in the hospital (P = 0.023 and P = 0.045, respectively).

Conclusion

Detailed Doppler evaluations of the pulmonary artery may help in evaluating the fetal adverse effects of COVID‐19 disease.
Accurately calibrated frequency domain diffuse optical spectroscopy compared against chemical analysis of porcine adipose tissue
Authors: Lam Jesse H. , Tu Kelsey J. , Kim Sehwan
Published: September 2021

Frequency domain diffuse optical spectroscopy (fdDOS) is a noninvasive technique to estimate tissue composition and hemodynamics. While fdDOS has been established as a valuable modality for clinical research, comparison of fdDOS with direct chemical analysis (CA) methods has yet to be reported. To compare the two approaches, we propose a procedure to confirm accurate calibration by use of liquid emulsion and solid silicone phantoms. Tissue fat (FAT) and water (H2O) content of two ex vivo porcine tissue samples were optically measured by fdDOS and compared to CA values. We show an average H2O error (fdDOS minus CA) and SD of 1.9 ± 0.2% and −0.9 ± 0.2% for the two samples. For FAT, we report a mean error of −9.3 ± 1.3% and 0.8 ± 1.3%. We also measured various body sites of a healthy human subject using fdDOS with results suggesting that accurate calibration may improve device sensitivity.
Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase C677T gene polymorphism and the association with dyslipidemia in type 2 diabetic Palestinian patients
Authors: Elqadi Muawiyah , Eweidat Khaled , Abu Sabha Mosa , Yagmour Asil , Sabarneh Anas , Nasereddin Abedalmajeed , Ereqat Suheir
Published: September 2021

Background

Dyslipidemia in diabetes is common and characterized by hypertriglyceridemia with decreased levels of high‐density lipoprotein. The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of MTHFR C677T polymorphism in Palestinian T2DM patients and to investigate the association between this polymorphism and lipid profile in diabetic patients with and without dyslipidemia.

Methods

A total of 208 T2DM patients including 98 with dyslipidemia and 110 without dyslipidemia were enrolled in this study. The MTHFR C677T genotyping was conducted by PCR‐RFLP followed by agarose gel electrophoresis.

Results

There were no significant differences in either the genotype distribution or allele frequency in T2DM patients with or without dyslipidemia (37.8% CC, 54% CT, 8.2% TT vs. 48.2% CC, 41.8% CT, 11% TT; p = 0.209). However, among the dyslipidemic group, the TT carriers have a higher HDL level (46.8 ± 17.8) compared to (CC+CT) carriers (34.68 + 11.9) (p = 0.01). In the group without dyslipidemia, there was a significant elevation in diastolic blood pressure (DBP) among the CC carriers (83.6 ± 10.6) compared to those who carried at least one mutant allele (CT+TT) (78.1 ± 11.1) (p = 0.009).

Conclusions

The study shows that in our Palestinian population the MTHFR 677TT genotype lowers DBP significantly in patients without dyslipidemia and is related to increased level of HDL in diabetic dyslipidemia patients.
A cluster‐randomized controlled trial to improve the quality of integrated HIV‐tuberculosis services in primary healthcareclinics in South Africa
Authors: Gengiah Santhanalakshmi , Barker Pierre M. , Yende‐Zuma Nonhlanhla , Mbatha Mduduzi , Naidoo Shane , Taylor Myra , Loveday Marian , Mhlongo Mesuli , Jackson Clark , Nunn Andrew J. , Padayatchi Nesri , Karim Salim S. Abdool , Naidoo Kogieleum
Published: September 2021

Introduction

: Tuberculosis (TB) remains the most common cause of death among people living with HIV. Integrating HIV and TB services reduces mortality but is sub‐optimally implemented. Quality improvement (QI) methods offer a low‐cost and easily implementable approach to strengthening healthcare delivery systems. This trial assessed a QI intervention on key process indicators for delivering integrated HIV‐TB care in rural South African primary healthcare (PHC) clinics.

Methods

Sixteen nurse supervisors, (each with a cluster of clinics) overseeing 40 PHC clinics, were randomized 1:1 to the intervention or the standard of care (SOC) groups. The QI intervention comprised three key components: clinical and QI skills training, on‐site mentorship of nurse supervisors and clinic staff, and data quality improvement activities to enhance accuracy and completeness of routine clinic data. The SOC comprised monthly supervision and data feedback meetings. From 01 December 2016 to 31 December 2018, data were collected monthly by a team of study‐appointed data capturers from all study clinics. This study's outcomes were HIV testing services (HTS), TB screening, antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation, isoniazid preventive therapy (IPT) initiation and viral load (VL) testing.

Results

The QI group (eight clusters) comprised 244 clinic staff who attended to 13,347 patients during the trial compared to the SOC group (eight clusters) with 217 clinic staff who attended to 8141 patients. QI mentors completed 85% (510/600) of expected QI mentorship visits to QI clinics. HTS was 19% higher [94.5% vs. 79.6%; relative risk (RR)=1.19; 95% CI: 1.02–1.38; p=0.029] and IPT initiation was 66% higher (61.2 vs. 36.8; RR=1.66; 95% CI: 1.02–2.72; p=0·044), in the QI group compared to SOC group. The percentage of patients screened for TB (83.4% vs. 79.3%; RR=1.05; p=0.448), initiated on ART (91.7 vs. 95.5; RR=0.96; p=0.172) and VL testing (72.2% vs. 72.8%; RR=0.99; p=0.879) was similar in both groups.

Conclusions

QI improved HIV testing and IPT initiation compared to SOC. TB screening, ART initiation and VL testing remained similar. Incorporating QI methods into routine supervision and support activities may strengthen integrated HIV‐TB service delivery and increase the success of future QI scale‐up activities.
The Role of Visual Abilities and Cognitive Style in Artistic and Scientific Creativity of Singaporean Secondary School Students
Authors: Kozhevnikov Maria , Ho Shuen , Koh Elizabeth
Published: September 2021

The current research addresses the question of the multidimensional relationship between visual abilities, visual cognitive style, and creativity (artistic and scientific) in Singaporean students of 13–14 years old. Three hundred seventy students (100 students in Study 1 and 270 students in Study 2) from two typical secondary schools in Singapore were administered 10 tasks assessing their visual abilities, visual cognitive style and domain‐specific, artistic, and scientific, creativities. Consistent with the results of recent research challenging the foundation of the current assessments of creativity as a general ability, the results of principal component analysis (PCA) (Study 1) and path analysis (Study 2) provided evidence that artistic and scientific types of creativities are clearly dissociable in students of 13–14 years old. Furthermore, the results of both studies demonstrated that although both visual abilities and corresponding cognitive style (object and spatial) reliably predicted artistic and scientific creativity respectively, cognitive style was a reliable predictor of corresponding creativity beyond visual ability. The findings suggest that domain‐specific visual creativity begins developing concurrently with corresponding types of visual abilities and cognitive style, and that socio‐cultural influences, as reflected by cognitive style, also affect the development of creative performance in a specific domain, beyond abilities.
Omitting types algebraically and more about amalgamation for modal cylindric algebras
Authors: Sayed Ahmed Tarek
Published: September 2021

Let α be an arbitrary infinite ordinal, and . In [26] we studied—using algebraic logic—interpolation and amalgamation for an extension of first order logic, call it , with α many variables, using a modal operator of a unimodal logic that contributes to the semantics. Our algebraic apparatus was the class of modal cylindric algebras. Modal cylindric algebras, briefly , are cylindric algebras of dimension α, expanded with unary modalities inheriting their semantics from a unimodal logic such as , or . When modal cylindric algebras based on are just cylindric algebras, that is to say, . This paper is a sequel to [26], where we study algebraically other properties of . We study completeness and omitting types (s) for s by proving several representability results for so‐called dimension complemented and locally finite . Furthermore, we study the notion of atom‐canonicity for , the variety of n‐dimensional modal cylindric algebras. Atom canonicity, a well known persistence property in modal logic, is studied in connection to for , which is restricted to the first n variables. We further continue our study of interpolation in [26] for algebraizable extensions of by studying using both algebraic logic and category theory. Our main results on are Theorems 3.7, 4.4 & 4.6, while our main results on amalgamation are Theorems 5.7, 5.10, 5.13 & 5.16.
The more things change, the more they stay the same: Demand‐side responses to economic shocks
Authors: Knudsen Eirik Sjåholm , Lien Lasse B. , Timmermans Bram , Wuebker Robert
Published: September 2021

When demand drops in an economic crisis, managers rely on an arsenal of demand‐side responses to retain existing customers or attract new ones. However, some strategic responses are likely to be more effective than others. Furthermore, the most effective strategic response presumably depends on firm‐specific characteristics that are often elided in theorizing and empirical work. We rely on a survey on strategic responses of Norwegian firms during the Great Recession and investigate demand‐side responses of Norwegian CEOs. Findings indeed demonstrate that characteristics like the size of the demand shock and the pre‐recession strategy determine demand‐side responses during an economic recession.
Design, Synthesis and Biological Activity of C3 Hemisynthetic Triterpenic Esters as Novel Antitrypanosomal Hits
Authors: Schioppa Laura , Beaufay Claire , Bonneau Natacha , Sanchez Marianela , Girardi Cynthia , Leverrier Aurélie , Ortiz Sergio , Palermo Jorge , Poupaert Jacques H. , Quetin‐Leclercq Joëlle
Published: September 2021

Research for innovative drugs is crucial to contribute to parasitic infections control and eradication. Inspired by natural antiprotozoal triterpenes, a library of 12 hemisynthetic 3‐O‐arylalkyl esters was derived from ursolic and oleanolic acids through one‐step synthesis. Compounds were tested on Trypanosoma, Leishmania and the WI38 cell line alongside with a set of triterpenic acids. Results showed that the triterpenic C3 esterification keeps the antitrypanosomal activity (IC50≈1.6–5.5 μm) while reducing the cytotoxicity compared to parent acids. Unsaturation of the ester alkyl chain leads to an activity loss interestingly kept when a sterically hindered group replaces the double bond or shields the ester group. An ursane/oleanane C3 hydroxylation was the only important feature for antileishmanial activity. Two candidates, dihydrocinnamoyl and 2‐fluorophenylpropionyl ursolic acids, were tested on an acute mouse model of African trypanosomiasis with significant parasitemia reduction at day 5 post‐infection for the dihydrocinnamoyl derivative. Further evaluation on other alkyl/protective groups should be investigated both in vitro and in vivo.
Racial alienation in Africa: A post‐colonial reading of Doris Lessing'sNo Witchcraft for Sale
Authors: Montle Malesela Edward
Published: September 2021

The colonial administration in Africa aimed to institutionalise racial peripheries in the continent in an effort to perpetuate separation. This meant eternising racial boundaries in African societies to underpin segregation. In the pre‐colonial times, African kingdoms were enshrined in equality, peace and unity, which the advent of colonialists moulded. The colonial assignment of division demonised African natives and still does in the post‐colonial age. Despite the colonial monarch being defenestrated by African movements of independence, its brainchild, racial discrimination continues to wreak havoc in the post‐colonial period. Therefore, this qualitative article sought to explore the height of racial tension in African societies from a literary perspective. It employs post‐colonial theory to underpin the exploration of Doris Lessing'sNo Witchcraft for Sale. Lessing's post‐colonial narration reflects on the painful experiences engendered by the deteriorating racial division in the post‐colonial African societies. It points out the impacts of racial spells upon the social development of the continent. For instance, the story does not only unearth hatred amongst diversified races in African societies but also the stereotypes against Afrocentric identities and talents. Thus, the researcher has sampled the above narration as a neat fit for the post‐colonial reflection of racial disparities in Africa.
Preparation of highly porous heat‐resistant polybenzoxazole network films and their electrical conductivities
Authors: Uchida Tetsuya , Onishi Yukihisa , Goto Atsu
Published: September 2021

Highly porous rigid polybenzoxazole (PBO) network films were prepared using a precursor‐mediated fabrication method. The obtained PBO network films possessed high porosities of ~40%, as calculated from their apparent densities. In addition, the 5%‐weight‐loss temperatures of the films were ≥570°C under nitrogen atmosphere, demonstrating an excellent thermal stability. The electrical conductivities of the obtained PBO network films and phosphoric‐acid‐doped PBO network films were also evaluated. In addition, PBO network films containing pyridine rings were prepared and subjected to phosphoric acid doping. The resultant films were found to exhibit the highest conductivities of the films considered in this study owing to proton conduction both between phosphate groups and between the pyridine rings. The highest conductivity was found for a film prepared from a phosphoric‐acid‐doped PBO network containing pyridine rings, that is, 2.09 × 10−1 S/cm at 150°C, which was higher than that of Nafion™. Therefore, these films can be used at higher temperatures than that of Nafion™.
Theoretical investigation of polymer molecular structure influence on dielectric properties and mechanical properties
Authors: Cao Yuying , Cao Weihua , Yang Xiao , Liu Changxin , Qi Xiaowen
Published: September 2021

Triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) technologies have explosive development in the field of energy harvesting and self‐powered sensing. As the key element of triboelectric devices, dielectric polymers have obtained much attention in recent years. The dielectric properties of polymer determine the output performance of TENG. In this paper, we take silicone rubber as an example of dielectric polymers, to study the properties of molecular structure influence on the dielectric properties and mechanical properties by the molecular dynamics simulation method. The free volume fraction, dielectric constant, and mechanical properties of silicone rubbers with different branch chains were calculated. The dielectric constant is highly related to the free volume distribution and the dipole moments of silicone rubbers with different amounts of branch chains. For fewer branch chains silicone rubber, the free volume distribution contributes most to the dielectric constant; for more branch chains silicone rubber, the dipole moment dominates the dielectric constant. Therefore, the silicone rubber ratio has a great influence on the dielectric constant of silicone rubber. With the increase of temperature, the dielectric constant of 2‐chain silicone rubber increases at first and then decreases, and the maximum value is obtained near 300 K. Therefore, it is necessary to control the temperature when silicone rubber is used as a dielectric material. This work can be a guide for improving the dielectric properties of silicone rubber, and it provides a new approach to the optimal design of high‐performance triboelectric nanogenerators.