bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Calibration and assessment of electrochemical low-cost sensors in
remote alpine harsh environments
Authors: Dallo Federico , Zannoni Daniele , Gabrieli Jacopo , Cristofanelli Paolo , Calzolari Francescopiero , de Blasi Fabrizio , Spolaor Andrea , Battistel Dario , Lodi Rachele , Cairns Warren Raymond Lee , Fjæraa Ann Mari , Bonasoni Paolo , Barbante Carlo
Published: March 2021

Abstract. The present work presents the results obtained using an original open-source low-cost sensor (LCS) system developed to measure tropospheric O3 in a remote high altitude alpine site. We conducted our study at the Col Margherita Observatory (2543 m a.s.l.), a World Meteorological Organization Global Atmosphere Watch Regional Station, located in the Italian Eastern Alps. The sensing system mounts three equivalent commercial low-cost sensors that have been calibrated using a laboratory standard (Thermo 49iPS), referenced to the Standard Reference Photometer #15 calibration scale by the WMO, before field deployment. Intra and inter-comparison between sensors and reference (Thermo 49c) have been conducted for seven months from May to December 2018. The sensors required an individual calibration, both in laboratory and in the field. The sensor's dependence on the environmental meteorological variables has been considered and discussed. The evaluation of the analytical performances of this sensing system provides an LOD  3.5 ppb and ±8.5 at 95 % of confidence. Thanks to the first implementation of an LCS System in an alpine site, it has been demonstrated how it is possible to obtain valuable data from a low-cost instrument in a remote environment. This opens new perspectives for the adoption of a low-cost sensor network in atmospheric sciences.
Extreme events driving year-to-year differences in gross primary
productivity across the US
Authors: Turner Alexander J. , Köhler Philipp , Magney Troy S. , Frankenberg Christian , Fung Inez , Cohen Ronald C.
Published: March 2021

Abstract. Solar-Induced chlorophyll Fluorescence (SIF) has previously been shown to strongly correlate with gross primary productivity (GPP), however this relationship has not yet been quantified for the recently launched TROPOspheric Monitoring Instrument (TROPOMI). Here we use a Gaussian mixture model to develop a parsimonious relationship between SIF from TROPOMI and GPP from flux towers across the conterminous United States (CONUS). The mixture model indicates the SIF-GPP relationship can be characterized by a linear model with two terms. We then estimate GPP across CONUS at 500-m spatial resolution over a 16-day moving window. We find that CONUS GPP varies by less than 4 % between 2018 and 2019. However, we observe four extreme precipitation events that induce regional GPP anomalies: drought in west Texas, flooding in the midwestern US, drought in South Dakota, and drought in California. Taken together, these events account for 28 % of the year-to-year GPP differences across CONUS.
Using delayed decoupling to attenuate residual signals in editing
filters
Authors: Marincin Kenneth A. , Pal Indrani , Frueh Dominique P.
Published: March 2021

Abstract. Isotope filtering methods are instrumental in biomolecular nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) studies as they isolate signals of chemical moieties of interest within complex molecular assemblies. However, isotope filters suppress undesired signals of isotopically enriched molecules through scalar couplings, and variations in scalar couplings lead to imperfect suppressions, as occurs for aliphatic and aromatic moieties in proteins. Here, we show that signals that have escaped traditional filters can be attenuated without sensitivity losses for the desired signals of unlabeled moieties. The method uses a shared evolution between the detection and preceding preparation period to establish non-observable antiphase coherences and eliminates them through composite pulse decoupling. We demonstrate the method by isolating signals of an unlabeled post-translational modification tethered to an isotopically enriched protein.
Estimated Flood Discharge in Downstream Krueng Meureubo of Pasi Pinang Section West Aceh Regency
Authors: Ikhsan Muhammad , Rinaldy Rinaldy
Published: March 2021

The phenomenon of floods in Indonesia has become a routine thing that happens every year, almost all areas that are lowlands often flood when the rainy season arrives. Flooding is caused by high rainfall where the ability of the soil to absorb water decreases along with the rapid development of land that was once a rainwater catchment area, consequently surface runoff becomes high. Pasi Pinang Village can be categorized as a very flood prone village in Meureubo Subdistrict, due to the low condition of this village and directly borders the Meureubo river. Many adverse effects caused by floods and cause losses to the local community. The phenomenon of floods in Indonesia has become a routine thing that happens every year, almost all areas that are lowlands often flood when the rainy season arrives. Flooding is caused by high rainfall where the ability of the soil to absorb water decreases along with the rapid development of land that was once an area. In this case a study on flood discharge analysis needs to be done in order to reduce the incidence of flooding in the village of Pasi Pinang. The method used in this study is the Nakayasu HSS method, aim of this study is to determine the amount of flood discharge that occurred in the Krueng Meureubo River Basin in Pasi Pinang Village. Total hydrograph discharge calculated using the Nakayasu HSS method is the watershed area (A) = 1961.53 km, length of main river (L) = 157.02 km, time delay (tg) = 9.507 hours, duration of rain (Tr) = 7 , 13 hours, the time from the beginning of the flood to the peak of the flood hydrograph (tp) = 15.21 hours, the time of discharge 0.3 times the peak flood discharge (t0.3) = 19.01 hours and the peak flood discharge (Qp) = 23.109 m3 / sec then the total hydrograph discharge obtained by the Nakayasu method is equal to = 2040.26 m3/sec.
Hubungan Sanitasi Lingkungan dan Perilaku Sehat dengan Kejadian Filariasis di Kabupaten Aceh Tamiang
Authors: Risnati Malinda
Published: March 2021

Provinsi Aceh menduduki peringkat kedua penderita filariasis yaitu sebanyak 2.375 kasus. Sanitasi lingkungan dan perilaku sehat merupakan faktor paling berpengaruh terhadap kejadian filariasis karena berkaitan dengan perkembangbiakkan nyamuk yang merupakan vektor perantara. Kabupaten Aceh Tamiang merupakan salah satu daerah endemis filariasis dengan kasus pada tahun 2015 sebanyak 37 orang yang terdiri atas laki-laki 25 orang dan perempuan 12 orang dengan rentang usia dari 27 sampai dengan 77 tahun. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui hubungan sanitasi lingkungan dan perilaku sehat dengan kejadian filariasis di Kabupaten Aceh Tamiang tahun 2016. Desain penelitian cross sectional dengan sampel 100 orang diambil dengan cara proportional random sampling. Pengumpulan data menggunakan kuesioner dilakukan selama 12 hari dari tanggal 6-18 Juni 2016 di Wilayah Kabupaten Aceh Tamiang. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan terdapat ada hubungan yang signifikan antara sanitasi lingkungan (p = 0,007) dan perilaku sehat (p = 0,004) dengan kejadian filariasis. Penulis menyarankan agar Dinas Kesehatan bersama dengan petugas kesehatan lingkungan yang bertugas di seluruh Puskesmas di Kabupaten Aceh Tamiang untuk mempromosikan pendidikan kesehatan tentang filariasis dan mendorong masyarakat untuk meminum obat filariasis setiap tahun selama 5 tahun.
Pengaruh Pengetahuan, Sikap dan Sosial Budaya Terhadap Keputusan Suami Melakukan dan Menolak Vasektomi di Kecamatan Tanjung Pura Kabupaten Langkat
Authors: Dessiya Rahayu
Published: March 2021

Rendahnya partisipasi pria dalam ber-KB khususnya vasektomi disebabkan ketakutan para pria akan kehilangan kejantanannya, pengetahuan yang salah tentang vasektomi, dan budaya yang dianut masyarakat yang menganggap KB adalah urusan perempuan. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk membandingkan dan mengeksplorasi faktor-faktor yang berpengaruh terhadap keputusan suami melakukan dan menolak vasektomi di Kecamatan Tanjung Pura Kabupaten Langkat. Metode penelitian ini adalah metode penelitian kombinasi antara metode kuantitatif dengan kualitatif dengan rancangan comperative case study dengan strategi embedded konkuren. Jumlah sampel yang digunakan adalah 17 orang suami yang telah melakukan vasektomi dan 17 orang suami yang menolak vasektomi. Metode analisis data yang digunakan untuk metode kuantitatif adalah uji t independen dan metode analisis data yang digunakan untuk metode kualitatif melalui tiga langkah yaitu open coding, axial coding, dan selective coding. Hasil penelitian yang diperoleh dalam penelitian ini bahwa terdapat perbedaan antara keputusan suami yang melakukan dan menolak vasektomi, pada suami yang melakukan vasektomi tingkat pengetahuan, sikap dan sosial budayanya lebih tinggi dari pada suami yang menolak melakukan vasektomi. Hasil dari eksplorasi diperoleh beberapa faktor-faktor lain yang memengaruhi keputusan suami melakukan dan menolak vasektomi selain pengetahuan, sikap, dan sosial budaya adalah dukungan istri, kecemasan/ketakutan, agama, sosial ekonomi, informasi kesehatan yang diterima, dan manajemen kesehatan dari pihak PLKB.
Faktor Yang Berhubungan dengan Kepatuhan Perawat dalam Pelaksanaan Dokumentasi Asuhan Keperawatan di Ruang Rawat Inap Mata Uroe BLUD RSUD Langsa
Authors: Ayunin Syahida  , Dessiya Rahayu
Published: March 2021

Dokumentasi asuhan keperawatan merupakan sistem dan bagian penting dari proses asuhan keperawatan sebagai bukti tanggung jawab dan tanggung gugat perawat. Perawat pelaksana kurang menyadari hal ini terlihat dari pendokumentasian yang tidak dilengkapi perawat dari mulai pengkajian, diagnosa, perencanaan, implementasi dan evaluasi keperawatan. Tujuan penelitian ini untuk melihat hubungan faktor pengetahuan perawat, persepsi perawat tentang supervisi kepala ruangan dan motivasi perawat dengan kepatuhan perawat dalam pelaksanaan dokumentasi asuhan keperawatan di ruang Rawat Inap Mata Uroe BLUD RSUD Langsa. Penelitian ini menggunakan desain survei analitik dengan rancangan cross sectional study. Sampel dalam penelitian ini menggunakan teknik total populasi yang melibatkan 35 perawat ruang Rawat Inap Mata Uroe BLUD RSUD Langsa. Variabel penelitian ini terdiri dari variabel dependen yaitu kepatuhan perawat dan variabel independen yang terdiri dari pengetahuan, persepsi tentang supervisi dan motivasi perawat. Hasil ukur variabel independen dilakukan dengan cara penyebaran kuesioner sedangkan variabel dependen diperoleh melalui observasi terhadap dokumentasi asuhan keperawatan. Teknik analisa data menggunakan analisis univariat dan analisis bivariat dengan menggunakan uji Chi-square. Hasil uji statistic bivariat Chi-square menunjukan bahwa ada hubungan yang bermakna antara pengetahuan dengan kepatuhan perawat (p=0,001), persepsi perawat tentang supervisi kepala ruangan dengan kepatuhan perawat (p=0,007), dan motivasi perawat dengan kepatuhan perawat (0,000).
Hubungan Kualitas Pelayanan dan Fasilitas Terhadap Kepuasan Pasien di Puskesmas Kota Kuala Simpang Kabupaten Aceh Tamiang Tahun 2019
Authors: Malinda Risnati , Azhar Azhar
Published: March 2021

Kepuasan pasien adalah keluaran (outcome) layanan kesehatan. Dengan demikian kepuasan pasien merupakan salah satu tujuan dari peningkatan mutu layanan kesehatan. Kepuasan pasien  adalah suatu tingkat perasaan pasien yang timbul sebagai akibat dari kinerja layanan kesehatan yang diperolehnya setelah pasien membandingkannya dengan apa yang diharapkannya (Pohan, 2013). Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui adanya hubungan antara kualitas pelayanan dan fasilitas dengan kepuasan pasien di Puskesmas. Penelitian ini bersifat Analitikdengan desain crossectional yang dilakukan di Puskesmas Kota Kuala Simpang pada tanggal 19 s/d 25 September 2019 menggunakan data primer dengan jumlah 97 respondenmenggunakan tehnik accidental sampling. Variabel penelitian ini adalah kepuasan pasien, kualitas pelayanan dan fasilitas. Data ini di analisa secara univariat dan bivariat dengan uji chi-square disajikan dalam bentuk tabel distribusi frekuensi. Hasil penelitian menunjukan Ha diterima dimana kualitas pelayanan dengan P value=0,000 < α = 0,05, fasilitas P value=0,00 < α = 0,05. Sehingga ada hubungan yang bermakna antara kualitas pelayanan fasilitas dengan kepuasan pasien peserta di Puskesmas Kota Kuala Simpang.
Prólogo
Authors: Duarte Galeas Rosario
Published: March 2021

La revista científica UMH Sapientiae de la Universidad Metropolitana de Honduras (UMH), surge con el propósito de potenciar uno de los roles más importantes de toda Institución de Educación Superior, “la generación de conocimiento” como mecanismo de desarrollo social. Es así, que a través de las publicaciones científico-académicas se pretende visibilizar el trabajo de profesionales comprometidos con la sociedad, poniendo a disposición sus escritos como fuentes de consulta.
‘Superación del pasado’ y ‘memoria histórica’: similitudes y diferencias entre Alemania y España
Authors: Bernecker Walther L.
Published: March 2021

El artículo presenta una aproximación comparativa a las distintas formas, en que dos países (Alemania y España) se han encarado y siguen encarándose a su respectivo pasado de violencia y guerra. En Alemania se habla de Vergangenheitsbewältigung (‘superación del pasado’), en España de la ‘recuperación de la memoria histórica’. Para ambos casos, el texto analiza críticamente el momento en el que empezó la reflexión colectiva y auto-crítica sobre el pasado problemático, se contrastan las diferentes visiones sobre las correspondientes guerras y dictaduras, se resalta la importancia de las fases postbélicas y de las generaciones postdictatoriales que tienen que tratar con su pasado. Si bien entre los casos español y alemán hay más diferencias que simili-tudes, muchos aspectos resultan más comprensibles usando el método de la comparación.
Nutrient Composition and Aflatoxin Contamination of African Sourced Peanuts and Cashew Nuts: Its Implications on Health
Authors: C. Adetunji Modupeade , A. Akinola Stephen , Nleya Nancy , Mulunda Mwanza
Published: March 2021

Edible nuts are popular worldwide based on their varied attributes such as desirable taste, high nutritional value as well as some health benefits. Globally, the most popular edible nuts are groundnuts or peanuts, almond, cashew nut among others. Due to the rich nutritional composition of nuts, they tend to be prone to contamination by toxigenic fungi which could ultimately results in the release of fungal metabolites known as mycotoxins into nuts. In view of the nutritional composition of nut and its high susceptibility to fungal attack, this chapter looks at the nutritional profile, mycotoxigenic fungi and aflatoxins contamination of peanuts, cashew nuts and their products with a central focus on Africa where the effect of aflatoxin contaminations is more prominent.
Preservation of Seafoods by Hurdle Technology
Authors: Pal Jag , Pravesh Kumar Ravi Om , Kumari Sangeeta , Kumar Singh Akhilesh
Published: March 2021

Fish and seafoods are a highly perishable product due to the biochemical composition and the high microbial load on the skin and gills of fish. The natural microflora that is more adopted to low temperatures results in lower thermal bacterial shock at the storage temperature. The development of new fish processing techniques is required because the demand for fish or seafood with minimum changes in sensory Biochemical and nutritional quality. This has led to the advent of hurdle technology in the field of seafood technology. Hurdle technology is the combined use of several preservation methods to make a product shelf-stable, to improve quality and to provide additional safety. This technology is used in many countries of the world, including India. The factors used for food preservation is called as hurdles. A combination of hurdle such as high temperature, refrigeration, irradiation, drying and smoking etc. are applied to eliminate the growth of microorganism. The application of several hurdle may reduce the rate of fish spoilage caused by spoilage microbe. The objective of this book chapters is focus on the preservative effect of hurdles technology on the quality and shelf-life fish and fishery products with recent, combined updated information.
Paraumbilical/Umbilical Hernia
Authors: Sanna Andrea , Felicioni Luca
Published: March 2021

Umbilical hernia is a common pathology that occurs in around 2% of the population. About 10% of abdominal hernias are umbilical hernias and umbilical hernia repair is among the most commonly performed surgeries in adults. The diagnosis is straightforward when tissues or organs such as the omentum or a bowel segment bulge out through an opening in the muscles of the abdominal wall in the umbilical region. The treatment options for umbilical hernia include non-operative and operative management strategies via open or minimally invasive techniques. This chapter provides a comprehensive review of umbilical hernias in adults.
Determination of Values Range of Physical Quantities and Existence Parameters of Normal Spherical Detonation by the Method of Numerical Simulation
Authors: Polatayko Myron
Published: March 2021

Using elements of the theory of classical detonation and previously obtained relations for spherical waves, the author tried to establish the range of admissible values of temperature, Mach numbers, and specific hydrogen content in the gas mixture of the possible existence of normal spherical detonation. The work took into account the critical values of the parameters associated with the kinetics of the chemical reaction at the front of the blast wave and the parameters that determine the intensity of the shock transition (minimum and maximum Mach number) for a given reacting medium. Using the example of the interaction of hydrogen and oxygen in a hydrogen-oxygen mixture, it was possible to graphically determine the range of values of the main physical quantities and parameters - the critical temperature, the detonation temperature of the quiescent medium, and the specific hydrogen content in the mixture required for spherical detonation. Mathematical modeling of the process was carried out at a fixed value of the pressure of the gaseous medium.
Enhancement of Textile Supply Chain Performance through Optimal Capacity Planning
Authors: Safra Imen , Ghachem Kaouther
Published: March 2021

Manufacturing companies in the textile and apparel field face stiff competition due to the globalization of trade between suppliers, producers and customers. To meet this challenge, they need to be efficient by adopting new lean manufacturing approaches and new analysis and management tools leading to more flexible and agile production and distribution processes. For the textile and apparel industry, where products’ life cycle is short due to fashion changes, a new integrated approach of production and distribution planning is needed. Based on linear programming techniques and integrating subcontracting activities, our approach takes into account the characteristics of demand, including its short life cycle, seasonality and fashion effect. For these reasons, a sequential approach is adopted, combining tactical and operational decision levels for production and distribution activities, in order to satisfy customer needs at lower cost by reacting quickly to changes and delivering on time. The deployed approach is structured according to the DMAIC lean tool. Validated on real instances, this approach proves its efficiency by achieving cost reduction when internal production capacity is adequately and efficiently planned.
Russian Wheat Aphid Distribution in Wheat Production Areas: Consequences of Management Practices
Authors: Jankielsohn Astrid
Published: March 2021

Russian wheat aphid (RWA) is an international pest on wheat and occurs in most countries where large scale wheat cultivation is practiced. Consequently, considerable efforts have been made to manage RWA globally. The two management options used currently are chemical control and breeding for deployment of resistant wheat cultivars. There are however drawbacks to both of these management practices. Chemical control has a negative impact on the environment, especially other insect groups such as predators, pollinators and decomposers. With widespread and continuous use of the same active ingredients, there is the possibility that RWA can build up resistance against these specific active ingredients. The drawback with resistance breeding is that certain RWA populations can overcome the resistance in the wheat, resulting in new biotypes virulent to the resistant wheat cultivars.
Principle, Design and Future of Inchworm Type Piezoelectric Actuators
Authors: Li Jianping , Wen Jianming , Hu Yili , Zhang Zhonghua , He Lidong , Wan Nen
Published: March 2021

The inchworm type piezoelectric actuator is one novel actuator to ensure a large working stroke with high resolution which has attracted the continuous attentions from researchers all over the world. In this study, the motion principle of the inchworm type piezoelectric is discussed: the “walker” pattern, the “pusher” pattern and hybrid “walker-pusher” pattern. The classification (linear, rotary and multi-DOF) and development are introduced in details, some significant researches are illustrated. Finally, the future direction of inchworm type piezoelectric actuators is pointed out according the development of inchworm type piezoelectric actuators. This study shows the clear principle, design and future of inchworm type piezoelectric actuators which is meaningful for the development of piezoelectric actuators.
Outsourcing: State-of-the-Art in India and an Insight to Coal Mining Industry
Authors: Modak Mousumi , Pathak Khanindra , Kanti Ghosh Kunal
Published: March 2021

In the present era of globalization, outsourcing proves to be one of the prominent and emerging business practices widely adopted by the firms around the world in order to stay competitive. The academic literature on outsourcing in the Indian context mostly deals with the outsourcing of information technology/information systems (IT/IS) and business process outsourcing (BPO) that are outsourced to Indian IT firms by the multinational companies (MNCs) located abroad. However, studies on outsourcing practices followed by the Indian firms may be inadequate in the extant literature. It was observed that the decision of outsourcing is often taken in an aggressive manner with an emphasis on short-term cost advantage rather than giving due consideration in realizing the significant contribution of such decisions over the long-term competitiveness of the organization. The present study provides a structured approach to analyze the suitability of outsourcing in line with the organizational strategy for performance improvement for the coal mining organization in India.
Lean Manufacturing as a Strategy for Continuous Improvement in Organizations
Authors: Marcela Solís-Quinteros María , Zayas-Márquez Carolina , Alfredo Ávila-López Luis , Carrillo-Gutirrez Teresa
Published: March 2021

The implementation of lean manufacturing is one of the most discussed and studied topics in management; references are at the business, educational and public levels. However, the changes faced in the fourth industrial revolution generate challenges that will only encounter solution through innovative efforts and industrial improvements as well as a radical change in our way of interacting. In the current revolution, there are digital changes that cause ruptures in social, economic and political aspects, and the administrative process is part of it, this chapter proposes to analyze the implementation of lean manufacturing in the process of continuous improvement in business organizations through a literary review of the implementation of tools.
Transforming theory into practice: Creating student-centered instructional activities rooted in the Framework
Authors: Kowalski Meghan , Meals Catherine , Rusk Faith
Published: March 2021

During summer 2019, the four reference librarians at the University of the District of Columbia (UDC), an HBCU in the nation’s capital, met weekly to review and discuss each part of the ACRL Framework for Information Literacy for Higher Education. With our student population in mind, we had two goals: establishing a team-wide shared analysis of each frame and developing a collection of student-centered active learning activities, rooted in the Framework’s concepts, that could be mixed and matched during one-shot and embedded library instruction. Prior to this project, the librarians were using a limited group of library instruction activities that were not necessarily related to the Framework. During the project, the librarians found the Framework to be highly theoretical, making it challenging to identify concrete learning activities. However, by deeply engaging with the Framework, it was possible to create student-centered instructional activities that were rooted in the theory, and we were able to expand our repertoire of activities used in library instruction. We were also able to provide faculty with firm examples of how library instruction engages their students in information literacy and lifelong learning.
Meet the candidates for ALA president: Vote in the election this spring
Authors: Of College and Research Libraries Association
Published: March 2021

The ACRL Board of Directors posed the following questions to the candidates for ALA president, and C&RL News is pleased to publish their responses. Each candidate was given 1,500 words to respond to seven questions and contribute an optional opening statement. The responses are identified under each question.
Compassionate Play: why playful teaching is a prescription for good mental health (for you and your students)
Authors: Reeve Julia
Published: March 2021

This article explores the softer side of play, considering the affordances of teaching at the reflective and contemplative end of the playful learning spectrum.  Inspired by both contemplative and compassionate pedagogies plus practice-based enquiry, it argues for the positive impact that playful learning can have on student and staff mental health.  It explores the way that a playful teaching approach can benefit both students and teachers within UK Higher Education: a sector where high levels of poor mental health among both groups are well-documented.  The affordances of combining playful learning with compassionate and contemplative pedagogies are identified: these include the development of skills in empathy, listening and reflection, and the provision of safe spaces for identity work.  The article ends with some practical recommendations for teachers who would like to adopt this compassionate approach in both their playful practice and their own development.
Integrating play based approaches into nursing education: Teachers as playful academics
Authors: Dean Belinda Jane , Parson Judi A
Published: March 2021

The nursing academic, who is responsible for settingthe playful conditions, creates a safe and permissive learning environment,which in turn facilitates the student’s ability to engage in fun exploratorylearning activities. It is hypothesised that the use of a humanistic stancewith playful engagement such as, projective small world play, will facilitateoptimal teaching conditions in the higher education sector.
Nwikpe Probability Distribution: Statistical Properties and Goodness of Fit
Authors: Nwikpe Barinaadaa John , Essi Isaac, Didi , Emeka Amos
Published: March 2021

In this paper, we introduce a new continuous probability distribution developed from two classical distributions namely, gamma and exponential distributions. The new distribution is called the Nwikpe distribution. Some statistical properties of the new distribution were derived. The shapes of its probability density function have been established for different values of the parameters.  The moment generating function, the first four raw moments, the second moment about the mean, Renyi’s entropy and the distribution of order statistics were derived. The parameter of the new distribution was estimated using maximum likelihood method. The shape of the hazard function of the new distribution is increasing. The flexibility of the distribution was shown using some real life data sets, the goodness of fit shows that the new distribution gives a better fit to the data sets used in this study than the one parameter exponential, Shanker, Lindley, Akash, Sujatha and Amarendra distributions.
Alstonia boonei Leaf Mitigated Deleterious Effects of Experimental Type-II-Diabetes-Mellitus against Pancreatic and Neurocognitive Functions
Authors: Falusi Violet Olubunmi , Oluwayomi Sunday , Imoukhuede Bamidele , Oladipo Gideon Oludare
Published: March 2021

The search for prompt, less toxic and economically affordable medical therapy has facilitated the increased investigation into the therapeutic potentials and applications of plants samples against common tropical ailments. This study was designed to investigate the reported link between experimental type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and neurocognitive decline and the justification for the use Alstonia boonei leaf in similar treatments. Experimental T2DM were treated with 100, 1000 and 1600 mg/kg BWT of the Alstonia boonei leaf and glibenclamide (100 mg/kg BWT). Biochemical analyses were used to determine effects on the pancreatic and neuronal indices of tissues functions; oxidative stress; excitation; and inflammation; blood glucose and insulin concentrations. The study revealed that T2DM and Alstonia boonei leaf affected the activity of tyrosine hydroxylase which is the regulating enzyme for the biosynthesis of dopamine. The oxidative and inflammatory stress exacerbated by T2DM was mitigated by a significant reduction of TNF-α and an increase of GSH, NP-SH, GPx, SOD and GST levels. Alstonia boonei leaf reversed the insulin resistance by the cells, with effective transduction of insulin signal and a corresponding reduction of circulating glucose. Alstonia boonei leaf demonstrated hypoglycaemic effect, and mitigated the neurodegeneration that ensued from the diabetic induction.
Screening for Speech and Language Delay among Children Up to or Less than 3 years Seen in the Children Clinic of a Tertiary Hospital in Port Harcourt
Authors: Uju Ibekwe Matilda , Nneka Gabriel-Job
Published: March 2021

Background: In the literature, there appears to be a lot of data on speech delay in children but most emanated from the western world, but little from sub-Sahara Africa especially Nigeria. This study therefore is to determine the prevalence and the risk factors of speech and language delay among children up to or less than 3years seen in our environment.

Methodology: A descriptive cross sectional study carried out in the Paediatric outpatient clinic of the University of Port Harcourt teaching hospital within the period of June 2020 to September 2020. The Language Evaluation Scale Trivandrum (LEST 0-3) and Trivandrum Development Screening Chart (TDSC 0-3) are the tools used both to determine the speech and language delays and the developmental milestone in these children aged 0-3 years. Any child 3 years and below attending the clinic was included in the study; however children with apparent syndromes are excluded as well as children whose parents decline to give consent.  IBM SPSS Statistics version 25 was used for data analysis. Descriptive statistics was employed in the analysis.

Results: The study comprised of 157 subjects with ages ranging from 2 months to 36 months.  There is a significant relationship between hearing impairment and language/speech delay (p=0.002). There was a significant relationship between the various identified delays and a history of jaundice in the neonatal period.  A prevalence of 15.3% for language/speech delay was obtained.

Conclusion: Language/speech delay is prevalent in our environment. Perinatal risk factors are significantly associated with these delays.
Effect of Platelet Rich Plasma Injection Effect on Knee Osteoarthritis in Elderly: Single Dose versus Double Dose Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Saqlain Hassan Amir Us , Hussain Syed Sajid , Keerio Niaz Hussain , Qureshi Masood Ahmed , Valecha Nuresh Kumar , Noor Syed Shahid
Published: March 2021

Objective: This study aims to evaluate the effect of platelet rich plasma (PRP) and compare between single and double dose regimens among patients diagnosed with osteoarthritis admitted to the orthopedic department of Al Qassimi Hospital Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.

Methods: 200 patients were allocated into two groups in this randomized clinical trial. Patients were chosen to participate in this study after an informed consent. The trial took place at the Al Qassimi Hospital Sharjah, United Arab Emirates from July 2019 to July 2020. All patients had knee osteoarthritis, half of them received single dose PRP (group A) and the other half received double dose PRP (group B). All patients were adults and older than 18 years of age. Patients were followed up using Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC). The follow up was done prior to the administration of PRP, at 1 month, 3 month and 6 months after administration. Data was analyzed using SPSS program. Ethical approval was gained from the hospital as well as from patients.

Results: The mean age of the patients was 48.5 ± 8.3 years. The study included 200 participants, among them, 60 were females and 140 were males. There was improvements in all parameters of WOMAC at 3 and 4 weeks following administration of PRP. The effect of PRP continued until 6 months of follow up with no differences between the two groups. Group A baseline WOMAC parameters (pain, stiffness, physical function and total score) mean score were 15.8, 6.24, 43.01 and 65.22 respectively. At the follow up, the mean scores were 4.73, 1.78, 13.88 and 19.56 respectively. This shows significant improvement. On the other hand, group B baseline mean scores were 16.31, 6.81, 40.89 and 64.77 respectively. At the final follow up of group B, the parameters mean scores were 4.40, 1.11, 13.64 and 20.27 respectively. Both groups were compared to each other and no benefit for the double dose over the single dose (P value, 0.66).

Conclusion: Previous results suggests improvement in functionality in both groups of the trial. There was pain and stiffness relief among all patients. It is concluded that double dose has no additional effect to the single dose regimen.
Optimization of Pectinase and Protease Produced from Bacillus subtilis Isolated from Market Waste
Authors: Anab-Atulomah C. , Nwachukwu E.
Published: March 2021

Aims: The objective of the study was to produce and optimize protease and pectinase from Bacillus subtilis isolated from market waste.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Microbiology (laboratory unit), Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike, Abia State Nigeria.

Methodology: The production and optimization of protease and pectinase from bacteria isolated from solid market waste was investigated. Isolated bacteria from the waste were screened for protease and pectinase production using skim milk agar and pectin agar respectively. Using morphological, biochemical and molecular technique the enzymes producing isolate was confirmed as Bacillus subtilis. Protease and Pectinase were produced by Bacillus subtilis using submerged fermentation in gelatin broth and pectin broth respectively. The enzymes were purified using ammonium sulphate precipitation, dialysis and ion-exchange chromatography. Optimization using different temperatures, pH and nutrient sources was done. Enzyme activity was measured.

Results: Purified protease exhibited maximum activity of 8.72U/ml at 40oC while pectinase exhibited maximum activity of 8.98U/ml at 50oC. Glucose as a carbon source and peptone as a nitrogen source gave optimum activity for both enzymes. Both pectinase and protease exhibited optimum activity at pH 9. There was significant difference (P=.05) in enzyme activity at different temperatures, pH and nitrogen sources for both protease and pectinase. There was no significant difference in pectinase activity at P=.05 for the different carbon sources while there was significant difference for protease activity for the different carbon sources at P=.05.

Conclusion: Production of microbial enzymes such as protease and pectinase from waste material is an eco-friendly process and cheaper option for large scale use of enzymes in industry.
A clinical validation of the MR‐compatible Delta4 QA system in a 0.35 tesla MR linear accelerator
Authors: Desai Vimal , Bayouth John , Smilowitz Jennifer , Yadav Poonam
Published: March 2021

Purpose

To validate an MR‐compatible version of the ScandiDos Delta4 Phantom+ on a 0.35T MR guided linear accelerator (MR‐Linac) system and to determine the effect of plan complexity on the measurement results.

Methods/Materials

36 clinical treatment plans originally delivered on a 0.35T MR linac system were re‐planned on the Delta4 Phantom+ MR geometry following our clinical quality assurance (QA) protocol. The QA plans were then measured using the Delta4 Phantom+ MR and the global gamma pass rates were compared to previous results measured using a Sun Nuclear ArcCHECK‐MR. Both 3%/3mm and 2%/2mm global gamma pass rates with a 20% dose threshold were recorded and compared. Plan complexity was quantified for each clinical plan investigated using 24 different plan metrics and each metric’s correlation with the overall 2%/2mm global gamma pass rate was investigated using Pearson correlation coefficients.

Results

Both systems demonstrated comparable levels of gamma pass rates at both the 3%/3mm and 2%/2mm level for all plan complexity metrics. Nine plan metrics including area, number of active MLCs, perimeter, edge metric, leaf segment variability, complete irradiation area outline, irregularity, leaf travel index, and unique opening index were moderately (|r| > 0.5) correlated with the Delta4 2%/2mm global gamma pass rates whereas those same metrics had weak correlation with the ArcCHECK‐MR pass rates. Only the perimeter to area ratio and small aperture score (20 mm) metrics showed moderate correlation with the ArcCHECK‐MR gamma pass rates.

Conclusions

The MR‐compatible version of the ScandiDos Delta4 Phantom+ MR has been validated for clinical use on a 0.35T MR‐Linac with results being comparable to an ArcCHECK‐MR system in use clinically for almost five years. Most plan complexity metrics did not correlate with lower 2%/2mm gamma pass rates using the ArcCHECK‐MR but several metrics were found to be moderately correlated with lower 2%/2mm global gamma pass rates for the Delta4 Phantom+ MR.
Thermally Controlled Localized Porous Graphene for Integrated Graphene‐Paper Electronics
Authors: Tham Nicholas Cheng Yang , Sahoo Pankaj Kumar , Kim Yeongae , Hegde Chidanand , Lee Seok Woo , Kim Young‐Jin , Murukeshan Vadakke Matham
Published: March 2021

Porous graphene (PG) devices fabricated in situ from polyimide (PI) adhered onto paper substrates provide a cost‐effective and recycling‐friendly alternative to re‐engineer paper for liquid‐based power sources and sensors. However, paper is generally damaged due to heating during the fabrication of PG devices. Here integrated graphene‐paper electronics with exceptional thermal control through the proposed thermally localized laser graphitization (LLG) process is demonstrated, employing optimized ultrafast laser writing. LLG enables in situ fabrication of localized porous graphene (LPG) devices (>1775 K) on 65 µm thick PI tape adhered to paper without heating above 348 K. Laser parameters for LLG are predicted using an analytical temperature model and validated experimentally. The LLG is demonstrated by fabricating liquid electrolyte LPG micro‐supercapacitors and humidity sensors on liquid susceptible paper. It is envisaged that the scientific concepts proposed and demonstrated here will expedite the development of low‐cost, scalable, and chemically robust LPG devices on thermally sensitive substrates.
Partners in care
Authors: Au Margaret G.
Published: March 2021

This festschrift contribution, written for my colleague and mentor John Graham, reflects on geneticist—genetic counselor interactions in clinical care, samples of alternative models of care for pediatric and general genetic counselors, and avenues for expanding access to genetic healthcare services utilizing genetic counselors.
P75 and S100 gene expression induced by cell‐imprinted substrate and beta‐carotene to nerve tissue engineering
Authors: Dadashkhan Sadaf , Irani Shiva , Bonakdar Shahin , Ghalandari Behafarid
Published: March 2021

Here we aimed to differentiate adipose derived stem cells (ADSCs) to Schwann cells (SCs), as one of the major and instrumental cell sources in nerve regeneration, by synergistic application of imprinting method and β‐carotene. Accordingly, the topography of Schwann cells was imprinted on poly dimethyl siloxane (PDMS) substrates via mold casting and human ADSCs seeded on substrates; moreover, β‐carotene was added to induce hADSCs differentiation. Physiochemical evaluations of PDMS by FTIR spectra presented its silicon‐methyl bond (SiCH3) at 1260 cm−1. Morphology analysis by crystal violet, picrosirus red staining, and SEM images illustrated that MSCs seeded on imprinted substrates have formed SC‐like morphology. Furthermore, according to q‐PCR and ICC evaluations, SCs specific markers; S100 and P75 in addition of 5 μl β‐carotene (BC) were upregulated (p‐value<0.001). Also, the expression was detected on the imprinted surfaces without β‐carotene to a lesser degree. Our study revealed that Schwann cell imprinted substrates can mimic the morphology and topography of SCs and induce differentiation signals in mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). In addition, the potency of β‐carotene as an organic substance in boosting and stimulating the neural differentiation was demonstrated. Relevantly, the reports have confirmed the synergistic pivotal roles of β‐carotene and patterned surfaces in directing MSCs into SC‐like cells differentiation without applying expensive and less safe chemical growth factors.
The neurocognitive profile of post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), major depressive disorder (MDD), and PTSD with comorbid MDD
Authors: Koopowitz Sheri‐Michelle , Maré Karen Thea , Zar Heather J. , Stein Dan J. , Ipser Jonathan C.
Published: March 2021

Objective

Neurocognitive dysfunction has been associated with post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and major depressive disorder (MDD). However, although PTSD is often comorbid with MDD, there is little neurocognitive work to date on individuals who suffer from both PTSD and MDD. Here, we compared neurocognitive domains in individuals with PTSD, MDD, and comorbid PTSD and MDD with those of healthy controls.

Methods

Participants comprised of mothers enrolled in the Drakenstein Child Health Study, a study exploring child health determinants in the Drakenstein district, Western Cape. N = 175 mothers (between 18 and 50 years) were recruited and divided into 4 groups: PTSD, MDD, PTSD with MDD, and healthy controls. Participants were assessed using the computerized NIH Toolbox, and paper and pencil neurocognitive tests. Domains assessed included executive function, memory, attention, learning, and processing speed.

Results

Distinct patterns of neurocognitive dysfunction were observed in this sample. PTSD was associated with more intrusion errors and MDD was associated with delayed recall impairment, relative to healthy controls. PTSD with comorbid MDD was associated with processing speed impairments, relative to healthy controls, and monodiagnostic groups. No group differences were observed on measures of attention and executive function.

Conclusion

Distinct patterns of neurocognitive dysfunction were associated with diagnoses of MDD and PTSD. Greater anticipated dysfunction and impairment in comorbid PTSD and MDD was not observed, however. Further work is needed to replicate and extend these findings.
Transgenic plants expressing a Clostridium difficile spore antigen as an approach to develop low‐cost oral vaccines
Authors: Rosales‐Mendoza Sergio , Cervantes‐Rincón Tomás , Romero‐Maldonado Andrea , Monreal‐Escalante Elizabeth , Nieto‐Gómez Ricardo
Published: March 2021

Gastrointestinal infections caused by Clostridium difficile lead to significant impact in terms of morbidity and mortality, causing from mild symptoms, such as a low‐grade fever, watery stools, and minor abdominal cramping as well as more severe symptoms such as bloody diarrhea, pseudomembrane colitis, and toxic megacolon. Vaccination is a viable approach to fight against C. difficile and several efforts in this direction are ongoing. Plants are promising vaccine biofactories offering low cost, enhanced safety, and allow for the formulation of oral vaccines. Herein, the CdeM protein, which is a spore antigen associated with immunoprotection against C. difficile, was selected to begin the development of plant‐based vaccine candidates. The vaccine antigen is based in a fusion protein (LTB‐CdeM), carrying the CdeM antigen, fused to the carboxi‐terminus of the B subunit of the Escherichia coli heat‐labile enterotoxin (LTB) as a mucosal immunogenic carrier. LTB‐CdeM was produced in plants using a synthetic optimized gene according codon usage and mRNA stability criteria. The obtained transformed tobacco lines produced the LTB‐CdeM antigen in the range of 52–90 μg/g dry weight leaf tissues. The antigenicity of the plant‐made LTB‐CdeM antigen was evidenced by GM1‐ELISA and immunogenicity assessment performed in test mice revealed that the LTB‐CdeM antigen is orally immunogenic inducing humoral responses against CdeM epitopes. This report constitutes the first step in the development of plant‐based vaccines against C. difficile infection.
A case of rectal metastasis of ovarian carcinoma diagnosed by endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration: A case report and brief review of the literature (with videos)
Authors: Huang Jialiang , Xu Liming , Cheng Guilian , Wu Wei , Tang Wen , Xu Longjiang , Hu Duanmin
Published: March 2021

When colorectal subepithelial lesions occur in ovarian carcinoma patients, EUS‐FNA may help to diagnose colorectal metastasis, thereby guiding clinicians to select appropriate treatment and improve the overall outcome.
A new lateral neck mass in a 63‐year‐old man with multinodular goiter
Authors: Nguyen Nguyen T. , Neelon Daniel P. , Orestes Michael I. , Shakir Mohamed K. M. , Hoang Thanh D.
Published: March 2021

Described is a rare presentation of ectopic thyroid tissue as a lateral neck mass. This case raises the awareness that a lateral neck mass (including ectopic thyroid mass) needs appropriate investigations to rule out malignancy.
“Water running in my chest”: Delayed spontaneous rupture of an aortocoronary saphenous vein graft aneurysm
Authors: Gnall Eric , Jayanna Manju Bengaluru , Shapiro Timothy , Abdulbasit Muhammad , Drosou Maria Elena , Ahmad Tariq
Published: March 2021

Saphenous vein graft aneurysm is an uncommon condition and knowledge about its natural history, and a multi‐specialty heart team approach is of utmost importance for better clinical outcomes. This case highlights importance of percutaneous intervention as a viable therapeutic option in the case of saphenous vein graft aneurysms.
An exceptional complication of transesophageal ultrasound in a patient with Coronavirus disease
Authors: Bahloul Amine , Hammami Rania , Bougharriou Aymem , Charfeddine Selma , Smaoui Racha , Abid Leila , Kammoun Samir
Published: March 2021

EP after TEE represents a medico‐surgical emergency. Given the high rate of asymptomatic patients with COVID 19, the risk of contamination and the frailty of esophageal tissues, we should check coronavirus infection in every patient before TEE.
Experimenteller Unterricht
Authors: Kubik Daniel
Published: March 2021

Corona macht auch vor dem Chemieunterricht nicht halt. Deshalb unterstützt der Fonds der Chemischen Industrie (FCI) mit einer zusätzlichen finanziellen Förderung den experimentellen Chemieunterricht. Davon profitieren aktuell 41 Schulen und Grundschulen in ganz Deutschland, die sich trotz der erschwerten Bedingungen besonders engagiert haben. In ChiuZ stellen wir ausgewählte Projekte vor.