bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biomechanical Constitutive Modeling of the Gastrointestinal Tissues: Where Are We?
Authors: Patel Bhavesh , Gizzi Alessio , Hashemi Javad , Awakeem Yousif , Gregersen Hans , Kassab Ghassan
Published: September 2021

The gastrointestinal (GI) tract is a continuous channel through the body that consists of the esophagus, the stomach, the small intestine, the large intestine, and the rectum. Its primary functions are to move the intake of food for digestion before storing and ultimately expulsion of feces from the rectum through the anal sphincter. The mechanical behavior of GI tissues thus plays a crucial role for GI function in health and disease. The mechanical properties are typically characterized by a constitutive biomechanical model, which is a mathematical representation of the relation between load and deformation in a tissue. Hence, validated biomechanical constitutive models are essential to characterize and simulate the mechanical behavior of the GI tract under physiological and pathological conditions. Numerous constitutive models have consequently been proposed over the past three decades, mainly inspired by work done in cardiovascular tissues. Here, a comprehensive review of these constitutive models is provided. This review is limited to studies where a model of the strain energy function is proposed to characterize the stress-strain relation of a GI tissue. Several needs are identified for more advanced modeling of GI biomechanics including: 1) Microstructural models that provide actual structure-function relations; 2) Validation of coupled electro-mechanical models accounting for active muscle contractions; 3) Human data under physiological and pathological conditions to develop and validate models. The findings from this review provide guidelines for using existing constitutive models as well as perspective and directions for future studies aimed at establishing new constitutive models for GI tissues.
GREEN CONSUMPTION TERHADAP KEPUTUSAN PEMBELIAN PRODUK FASHION PADA GENERASI MILENIAL
Authors: Nurbaity Arrsy Esty , Permata Nugraha Intan , Cholilawati Cholilawati
Published: September 2021

This study aims to (1) determine the concept of green consumption that influence the purchasing decisions for fashion products on millennials, (2) to determine the level of purchasing decisions for fashion products on the millennial, (3) to determine the effect of green consumption towards the purchasing decisions for fashion products on millennials. The method used a survey method with a quantitative approach. The samples in this study amounted to 200 respondents taken using incidental sampling techniques with questionnaires distributed online. Data analysis methods used Chi-Square testing. The results of this study indicate that (1) the green consumption variables have a very high value, which is 81.55%. (2) the variable of purchasing decisions has a very high value, 60%. (3) After chi-square testing, the results show that the data of ρ value 0.001 was smaller than the alpha (α) = 0.05 that H0 was rejected, H1 was accepted, so the result indicates that
Early Production Life of Wheatstone Project Offshore Australia Yields Key Lessons
Authors: Carpenter Chris
Published: September 2021

This article, written by JPT Technology Editor Chris Carpenter, contains highlights of paper SPE 202246, “Wheatstone: What We Have Learned in Early Production Life,” by John Pescod, SPE, Paul Connell, SPE, and Zhi Xia, Chevron, et al., prepared for the 2020 SPE Asia Pacific Oil and Gas Conference and Exhibition, originally scheduled to be held in Perth, Australia, 20–22 October. The paper has not been peer reviewed.

Wheatstone and Iago gas fields, part of the larger Wheatstone project, commenced production in June 2017. The foundation subsea system includes nine Wheatstone and Iago development wells tied back to a central Wheatstone platform (WP) for processing. Hydrocarbons then flow through an export pipeline to an onshore processing facility that includes two liquefied-natural-gas (LNG) trains and a domestic gas facility. The complete paper highlights some of the key learnings in well and reservoir surveillance analysis and optimization (SA&O) developed using data from early production.

Asset Overview

Chevron Australia’s Wheatstone project is in the North West Shelf region offshore Australia (Fig. 1). Two gas fields, Wheatstone and Iago (along with a field operated by a different company), currently tie into the WP in the Northern Carnarvon Basin. These two gas fields are in water depths between 150 and 400 m. The platform processes gas and condensate through dehydration and compression facilities before export by a 220-km, 44-in., trunkline to two 4.45-million-tonnes/year LNG trains and a 200 tera-joule/day domestic gas plant.

A Wheatstone/Iago subsea system consisting of two main corridors delivers production from north and south of the Wheatstone and Iago fields to the WP. Currently, the subsea system consists of nine subsea foundation development wells, three subsea production manifolds, two subsea 24-in. production flowlines, and two subsea 14-in. utility lines.

The nine foundation development wells feed the subsea manifolds at rates of up to 250 MMscf/D. These wells have openhole gravel-pack completions for active sand control and permanent downhole gauges situated approximately 1000-m true vertical depth above the top porosity of multi-Darcy reservoir intervals for pressure and temperature monitoring. All wells deviate between 45 and 60° through the reservoir with stepout lengths of up to 2.5 km.

The two subsea 24-in. production flowlines carry production fluids from the subsea manifolds to two separation trains on the WP. Each platform inlet production separator can handle up to 800 MMscf/D. The two 14-in. utility flowlines installed to the subsea manifolds allow routing of a single well to the platform multiuse header, which can direct flow into the multiuse separator (MUS) or other production separators at a rate of 250 MMscf/D.
Technology Helps Combat Driver Fatigue: Case Study From the Middle East
Authors: Carpenter Chris
Published: September 2021

This article, written by JPT Technology Editor Chris Carpenter, contains highlights of paper SPE 203350, “How Technology Can Support Tackling Drivers’ Fatigue: Case From Petroleum Development Oman,” by Demir Hadzic and Hamed Al Esry, Petroleum Development Oman, and David Marsh, Sheida International, prepared for the 2020 Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference, Abu Dhabi, held virtually 9–12 November. The paper has not been peer reviewed.

Petroleum Development Oman operates in harsh environments over which their drivers cover more than 320 million km annually. Driver fatigue is one of the leading causes of motor vehicle incidents (MVIs) associated with operations. The objective of the complete paper is to understand further how technology can support the prevention of driver fatigue and to explore driver beliefs related to fatigue and the technology designed to assist in fatigue avoidance. This study helped the operator’s safety specialists understand driver fatigue and develop mechanisms to prevent it.

Introduction

Previous research has found that motor vehicle crash fatalities in the oil and gas industry are up to 8.5 times more com-mon than in other occupations. A qualitative study by the operator indicated that participants commonly perceived fatigue as a main factor in MVIs. However, understanding of the nature and role of fatigue in MVIs was revealed to be relatively limited. Among the driver group interviewed, a common view existed that the responsibility for managing driver fatigue lay with the employer and not with drivers. In addition, among the driver group, there appeared to be little understanding of the effects that lifestyle outside of work has on driver fatigue. The pilot study showed that driver fatigue occurred once every three journeys on average, whereas driver distractions could occur more than four times in a single journey.

Equipment and Processes

Technology used in the study consists of in-cabin hardware units, analytical software integration with in-vehicle monitoring systems (IVMS), and participation of a monitoring team. In addition, event verification is performed by human monitors and feedback. Driver fatigue is part of a comprehensive integrated journey-management system developed by the operator, including standard operating procedures with regard to monitoring and event classification, verification, and response.
Abrupt Temperature Change In Winter Over The Mongolian Plateau For The Past 60 Years
Authors: Xia Yingying , Chun Xi , Dan Dan , Zhou Haijun , Wan Zhiqiang
Published: September 2021

Studying the abrupt temperature change in winter over the Mongolian Plateau (MP) is of great significance for understanding the spatiotemporal distribution of temperature and the mechanism of global climate change. Monthly temperature data of MP were collected during 1961–2017, the abrupt-change point was determined by the Mann–Kendall test and sliding t-test to analyze the characteristics and causes of abrupt temperature change in winter. The results showed that (a) The increase rate of winter temperature was 0.41 ℃/10a, with a contribution rate of 30.7 % to annual temperature change, which was significantly higher than that of mainland China, indicating that climate change in the MP was more sensitive to global warming. (b) The abrupt-change point occurred in 1988, with temperatures of -15.5 ℃ and − 14.1°C before and after 1988, respectively, the increasing range was 9%. The abrupt temperature change in high latitudes was 1–3 years later than that in low latitudes. (c) The isotherms of different temperatures in winter moved northward by 10–200 km, especially − 16°C isotherm moved approximately 200 km northward after 1988, thereby the MP warmed significantly. (d) there was a good coupling relationship between the Arctic Oscillation (AO) and winter temperature. AO affects temperature change by influencing the Mongolia–Siberian High, therefore, it may be an important factor to drive the abrupt temperature change in winter.
Computational Investigation of Adenosine 5′- (α, β-methylene)- diphosphate (AMPCP) Derivatives as Ecto-5′-nucleotidase (CD73) Inhibitors by Using 3D-QSAR, Molecular Docking, and Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Wen Jiatong , Zhang Heng , Meng Churen , Zhou Di , Chen Gang , Wang Jian , Liu Yang , Yuan Lei , Li Ning
Published: September 2021

CD73, as a surface enzyme anchored on the outside of the cell membrane via glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI), can convert the AMP in the tumor cell microenvironment into adenosine to promote the growth of tumor cells. It has been overexpressed in many different types of human tumors, such as gastric cancer, pancreatic cancer, liver cancer and other tumor cells. Therefore, targeted inhibitors of CD73 are considered as potential tumor treatment methods. Due to the low bioavailability of nucleoside CD73 inhibitors, it is necessary to develop new inhibitors. In this study, through molecular docking, three-dimensional quantitative structure-activity relationship (3D-QSAR) and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, a series of CD73 inhibitors were calculated and studied to reveal their structure-activity relationships. Through molecular docking studies, explore the possible mode of interaction between inhibitors and protein. Subsequently, a 3D-QSAR model was established by comparative molecular field analysis (CoMFA) and comparative molecular similarity indices analysis (CoMSIA). For the best CoMFA model, the Q2 and R2 values ​​are 0.708 and 0.983, respectively, while for the best CoMSIA model, the Q2 and R2 values ​​are 0.809 and 0.992, respectively. In addition, the stability of the complex formed by the two inhibitors and CD73 was evaluated by molecular dynamics simulation, and the results are consistent with the results of molecular docking and 3D-QSAR research. Finally, the binding free energy was calculated by the surface area method (MM-GBSA), and the results are consistent with the activities that Van Der Waals and Coulomb contribute the most during the binding process of the molecule to the CD73 protein. In conclusion, our research provides valuable information for the further development of CD73 inhibitors.
Impaired type I interferon signaling activity implicated in the peripheral blood transcriptome of preclinical Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Song Liting , Chen Jingqi , Lo Chun-Yi , Guo Qihao , Feng Jianfeng , Zhao Xing-Ming
Published: September 2021

Subjective cognitive decline (SCD) is considered the preclinical manifestation of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), which is a potentially crucial window for preventing or delaying the progression of the disease. To explore the potential mechanism of disease progression and identify relevant biomarkers, we comprehensively assessed the peripheral blood transcriptomic alterations in SCD, covering lncRNA, mRNA, and miRNA. Dysregulated protein-coding mRNA at both gene and isoform levels implicated impairment in the type I interferon signaling pathway in SCD. Specifically, this pathway was regulated by the transcription factor STAT1 and ncRNAs NRIR and has-miR-146a-5. The miRNA-mRNA-lncRNA coexpression network revealed hub genes for the interferon module. Individuals with lower interferon signaling activity and lower expression of hub genes STAT1 and TRIM22 exhibited a higher conversion rate to mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Our findings illustrated the down-regulation of interferon signaling activity would potentially increase the risk of disease progression and thus serve as a pre-disease biomarker.
Synthesis and Characterization of Nano-SiO2@octadecylbisimidazoline Quaternary Ammonium Salt Using as Acidizing Corrosion Inhibitor
Authors: Liu Yunfeng , Zhang Xingde , Qiu Zhengsong , Chen Lili
Published: September 2021

Aiming at the current situation that the existing acidizing corrosion inhibitors are difficult to apply to high temperature, high concentration acid, and other complex conditions. This paper uses nano-SiO2 as the core and preferably functional monomers to synthesize nano-SiO2@octadecylbisimidazoline quaternary ammonium salt. Analytical methods such as nuclear magnetic resonance, infrared, SEM were used for characterization. The corrosion inhibition performance of the N80 steel sheet by nano-SiO2@octadecylbisimidazoline quaternary ammonium salt in 20% concentrated hydrochloric acid was studied using the high-temperature corrosion testing machine and adsorption isotherm model. Combined with quantum chemistry calculations to explore its mechanism of action. The results show that nano-SiO2@octadecylbisimidazoline quaternary ammonium salt has good high-temperature resistance. When the temperature is 180℃ and the dosage of nano-SiO2@octadecylbisimidazoline quaternary ammonium salt is 4%, the corrosion inhibition rate is 61.42g·m− 2·h− 1. Studies have shown that the adsorption of nano-SiO2@octadecylbisimidazoline quaternary ammonium salt on the surface of the N80 steel sheet follows the Langmuir isotherm adsorption model, which is spontaneous chemical adsorption.
Adsorption And Diffusion of The H2/CO2 /CO /MeOH /EtOH Mixture Into The ZIF-7 Using Molecular simulation
Authors: Keyvanloo Zahra , Pour Ali Nakhaei , Moosavi Fatemeh
Published: September 2021

The adsorption and diffusion of synthesis gas components (methanol, ethanol, H2, CO2, and CO molecules) in ZIF-7 by grand canonical Monte Carlo and molecular dynamics simulation were investigated. The initial diffusion coefficient at the beginning of the process depends on the kinetic diameter of the guest molecules. Also, the diffusion coefficient at equilibrium conditions probably depends on the interaction between the guest molecules with the ZIF-7 framework. The radial distribution function results indicate that the distribution of guest molecules in the framework is affected by the interaction between the guest molecules. These results also demonstrate that the Zn atom and the organic linker are favorable sites for CO2, CO, and H2. In contrast, the organic linker is the most favorable adsorption site for methanol and ethanol guest molecules. In addition, the diffusion coefficient of guest molecules in binary mixtures is related to the attraction or repulsion between the guest molecules.
Modeling Malaria Incidence Associated with Environmental Risk Factors in Ethiopia using the Geographically Weighted Regression Model, 2015-2016
Authors: Dadi Berhanu Berga
Published: September 2021

Background: In Ethiopia, still, malaria is killing and affecting a lot of people of any age group somewhere in the country at any time. However, due to limited research, little is known about the spatial patterns and correlated risk factors on the wards scale. Methods: In this research, we explored spatial patterns and evaluated related potential environmental risk factors in the distribution of malaria incidence in Ethiopia in 2015 and 2016. Hot Spot Analysis (Getis-Ord Gi* statistic) was used to assess the clustering patterns of the disease. The ordinary least square (OLS), geographically weighted regression (GWR), and semiparametric geographically weighted regression (s-GWR) models were compared to describe the spatial association of potential environmental risk factors with malaria incidence.Results: Our results revealed a heterogeneous and highly clustered distribution of malaria incidence in Ethiopia during the study period. The s-GWR model best explained the spatial correlation of potential risk factors with malaria incidence and was used to produce predictive maps. The GWR model revealed that the relationship between malaria incidence and elevation, temperature, precipitation, relative humidity, and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) varied significantly among the wards. During the study period, the s-GWR model provided a similar conclusion, except in the case of NDVI in 2015, and elevation and temperature in 2016, which were found to have a global relationship with malaria incidence. Hence, precipitation and relative humidity exhibited a varying relationship with malaria incidence among the wards in both years. Conclusions: This finding could be used in the formulation and execution of evidence-based malaria control and management program to allocate scare resources locally at the wards level. Moreover, these study results provide a scientific basis for malaria researchers in the country.
Low proteolytic processing of histone H3 in cervical tissue positive to hrHPV
Authors: Alcaraz-Estrada Sofia L. , Serafín-Higuera Nicolás , Ramos-Mondragón Roberto , Reyes-Hernández Octavio D. , Figueroa-González Gabriela , Daniel-García Oscar , Millán-Testa Claudia E. , Blanco-Morales Magali , SANDOVAL-BASILIO JORGE
Published: September 2021

During the different stages of cervical carcinogenesis there is an accumulation of epigenetic alterations leading to changes in gene expression. High-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) is a primary risk factor for cervical cancer (CC). Impaired proteolytic processing of histone H3 constitutes a potential epigenetic mechanism in CC. However, whether this event occurs in early stages of the HPV infection is unknown. Using human cervical samples with normal pathology but positive and negative to hrHPV, we identified that the H3 cleavage was low in the hrHPV positive cervix compared to the hrHPV negative cervix. These results suggest that low H3 processing previously observed in CC may be a primary effect of hrHPV infection.
Population-Level Laterality In Foraging Finless Porpoises
Authors: Amano Masao , Kawano Yudai , Kubo Taketo , Kuwahara Tsuyoshi , Kobayashi Hayao
Published: September 2021

Laterality has been reported in many vertebrates, and asymmetrical cerebral hemisphere function has been hypothesized to cause a left-bias in social behavior and a right-bias in feeding behavior. In this paper, we provide the first report of behavioral laterality in free-ranging finless porpoises, which seemingly supports the aforementioned hypothesis. We observed the turning behavior of finless porpoises in Omura Bay, Japan, using land-based and unmanned aerial system observations. We found a strong tendency in finless porpoises to turn counterclockwise with their right side down when pursuing and catching fish at the surface of the water. Our results suggest that this population of finless porpoises shows consistent right-biased laterality. Right-biased laterality has been observed in various foraging cetaceans and is usually explained by the dominance of the right eye-left cerebral hemisphere in prey recognition; however, right-biased laterality in foraging cetaceans may have multiple causes.
A Study On Machining Characteristics of Al7075-NiCr-Gr Metal Matrix Composites Through Wire – Cut Electro Discharge Machining
Authors: Palani R. , Sakthivel M. , Chithambaram V. , Palani Geetha
Published: September 2021

The aluminium and its alloys play a vital role in industry for their wide practical applications. In the present work, Al7075 was reinforced with Ni-Cr and graphite by Stir casting method. Further the optimization of the machined composite was done by Taguchi method. It was inferred that the MRR value of 0.056435 g/min was obtained with input parameters of 8 amps current, 52 Volt, 4 µs pulse on time, 17 µs pulse off time by machining with WEDM and SR value of 3.3 µm showing smooth surface. The material removal rate of the composite was found and the morphology of the material was analysed by SEM with associated elemental analysis by energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS). The reinforcements present in the composite were also verified. The outcome of this micro structural investigation revealed that a non-uniform distribution of graphite particles takes place at all weight percentages of graphite reinforcement.
Impact of COVID 19 Pandemic on the Quality of Life of Migrant Slum Dwellers of India: a Qualitative Study in Delhi State
Authors: ROY NIVEDITA
Published: September 2021

Background: During the COVID pandemic, migrant workers had experienced harsh livelihood and socio-economic crises which amplified their challenges of life and significantly affected their mental health. However, there is a lack of in-depth evidence on how the mental trauma and shock of the loss of job and livelihood crisis affected men and women migrant workers differently. This study aimed to explore the impact of the COVID pandemic and lockdown on migrant workers who had faced psycho-social and financial challenges during the pandemic and lockdown and the effects of these challenges on their health. Methods: A formative research method comprising of iterative approach was used by conducting in-depth interviews of men and women migrant workers residing in randomly selected 2 blocks of a slum called Madanpur Khadar JJ Colony of Delhi, India. The respondents were chosen using a respondent driven purposive sampling depending on those who had faced severe loss during the pandemic. The migrant workers were interviewed about their challenges until saturation point was reached. In total 25 men and 25 women migrant workers were interviewed. Results: The financial constraints due to loss of employment, closing down of small scale self employment ventures, salary cuts and loans, threw life out of gear, further marginalizing the already disadvantaged community, who live from hand to mouth. To further aggravate the damage, COVID brought with it social stigma, discrimination, fear, stress, and anxiety. Women migrant workers bore the brunt of the burden of household responsibilities, increased demand without support and emotional abuse at home. Conclusions: There is an urgent need for unified social protection system with preventive, promotion-stricken, protective, and transformational measures designed through a crisis-responsive lens is required to provide an ecosystem of support to migrant workers.
Sacubitril-valsartan in Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction Following Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Han Zhi-hua , Wang Chang-qian , Zhang Jun-feng , Gu Jun
Published: September 2021

BackgroundIt was indicated that sacubitril-valsartan could improve the clinical prognosis in specific phenotype of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) patients compared with valsartan. However, there is lack of evidence of the comparative effectiveness in HFpEF patients following acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the selection between sacubitril-valsartan and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI)/angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) in HFpEF after ACS confered a prognostic benefit. MethodsUsing a propensity score matching of 1:2 ratio, this retrospective claims database study compared sacubitril-valsartan prescription (n=85) and ACEI/ARB therapy (n=170) in patients with HFpEF following ACS. Cox regression analysis was performed to assess the association between treatment and composite endpoints (all-cause mortality or hospitalization for heart failure). ResultsWith a follow-up of 2 years, 52 patients (20.4%) either died from any cause or were hospitalized for heart failure, in which 10 patients (11.8%) with prescribed with sacubitril-valsartan and 42 patients (24.7%) treated with ACEI/ARB (P=0.016). Sacubitril-valsartan therapy was beneficial in N-terminal Pro-B-type natriuretic peptid (NT-proBNP) reduction as well as left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) change. And Cox proportional hazards regression model revealed that sacubitril-valsartan prescription (HR 0.473, 95% CI: 0.233-0.961, P=0.038) was associated with a reduced risk of the occurrence of composite endpoints.ConclusionLong-term sacubitril-valsartan exposure was associated with protective effects in terms of the incidence of cardiovascular events in patients with HFpEF following ACS.
Nationwide Awareness Campaign and Call for Dental Screening for HHT in Germany
Authors: Geisthoff Urban W. , Hölzle Frank , Stuck Boris A. , Jackowski Jochen , Goetz Catherine Hand , Grabowski Christina , Droege Freya
Published: September 2021

Background: HHT is a rare, systemic, inherited disorder in which patients suffer from telangiectasias, especially of the facial skin, lips and oral mucosa, as well as visceral vascular malformations (VM). The diagnosis of HHT is often delayed for decades. However, early detection of VMs can reduce morbidity and mortality. Methods: In 2018 a nationwide awareness campaign addressing all dentists in Germany consisted of one published article and two reminders about HHT. As a proxy for the effectiveness of the campaign, researchers measured the number of first-time inquiries from patients and physicians about HHT documented by the German HHT self-help group from September 2016 until September 2019.Results: A total of 411 first contacts with the German self-help group were documented, mainly via internet platforms (internet forum (n = 130) and Facebook® (n = 189)). For 9% of those patients (n = 36/411) the physician or dentist (physician: (n = 31/36, 86%; dentist: n = 5/36, 14%) informed patients about the disease HHT and the self-help group. Before publishing the first article about HHT no dentist referred patients to the German self-help group; afterwards, 5 patients received information about HHT from their dentist and contacted the patient organization for the first time. After each publication in June, September and December 2018 the number of new contacts increased. Contacts via phone and e-mail had the highest relative increase. Conclusions: The repeated call for dental screening for HHT in Germany lead to increased awareness of this rare disease; more patients with possible HHT received information about the condition. The authors conclude that targeted campaigns may contribute to a shorter diagnostic latency resulting in increased quality of life and life expectancy in HHT. Clinical Trials.gov ID: CT03549949
Properties of SBR/NR Blend: The Effects of Carbon Black/Silica (CB/Si) Hybrid Filler and Silane Coupling Agent
Authors: G Anand , Vishvanathperumal S.
Published: September 2021

In the current research, investigation of natural rubber (NR)/styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) reinforced with carbon black (CB)/silica (Si) and with and without silane coupling agent (Si69) was analyzed. The total hybrid filler (CB/Si) concentration in the composite was fixed at 50 phr. Cure characteristics, mechanical properties and surface morphology were examined. The addition of a silane coupling agent improves the mechanical properties of NR/SBR rubber composites reinforced with CB/Si hybrid fillers. Compared with NR/SBR composites with Si69, addition of 0/50 CB/Si resulted in 53% decrease of tensile strength and 81% increase of elongation at break, superior to that of NR/SBR composites without Si69. When Si69 was used as a binding agent, the scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the tensile fractured surface clearly shows the better dispersion of hybrid fillers in the NR/SBR matrix.
Health, wealth, and medical expenditures among the elderly in rural Tanzania: Experiences from Nzega and Igunga districts
Authors: Tungu Malale , Mujinja Phares G. , Amani Paul J. , Mwangu Mughwira A. , Kiwara Angwara D. , Lindholm Lars
Published: September 2021

BackgroundThe per capita health expenditure (HE) and share of gross domestic product (GDP) spending on elderly healthcare are expected to increase. In many developing countries like Tanzania, there is an increasing gap between health needs and the available resources for elderly healthcare, which leaves the elderly with poor health conditions, especially chronic diseases. These conditions lead to catastrophic HEs for the elderly. ObjectiveThis study aimed to analyse the association among health, wealth, and medical expenditure in rural residents aged 60 years and above in Tanzania. MethodsData were collected through a cross-sectional household survey to rural residents aged 60 years and above living in Nzega and Igunga districts. Standardised World Health Organization (WHO) Study on Global Ageing and Adult Health (SAGE) and European Quality of Life Five Dimension (EQ-5D) questionnaires were used. The quality of life (QoL) was estimated using EQ-5D weights. The wealth index was generated from principal component analysis (PCA). Two linear regression analyses (outpatient/inpatient) were performed to analyse the association among health, wealth, medical expenditure, and socio-demographic variables.ResultsThis study found a negative and statistically significant association between QoL and HE, whereby HE increases with the decrease of QoL. We could not find any significant relationship between HE and social gradients. In addition, age influences HE such that as age increases, the HE for both outpatient and inpatient care also increases.ConclusionThe health system in these districts allocate resources mainly according to needs, and social position is not important. We thus conclude that the system is fair. Health, not wealth, determines the use of medical expenditures.
Interaction of Kreyellidae sp. and plant growth promoting bacteria influences the soil characteristics and root structure of rice plants
Authors: Chandarana Komal A. , Pramanik Rinka S. , Amaresan Natarajan
Published: September 2021

Plant growth and productivity depend on the complex and dynamic interaction between the plant roots and soil microflora. At present, the research on rhizosphere associated microbes’ is largely focused on bacteria and fungi; whereas the interaction of soil protists with plants and other microbes remain unexplored. The present study aimed to investigate the impact of a ciliate (Kreyellidae sp. C5) and two plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) i.e., Pseudomonas sp. (Ps) and Enterobacter sp. (Ec), on the growth of rice plants. It was observed that the protist-PGPB interaction significantly modified the root structure leading to an enhanced outgrowth of lateral roots (272.08% − 380.41%) and seminal roots (190.40% -250.45%), in addition to an increase in the primary root length (Turkey’s HSD, p < 0.05). The Phospholipid Fatty Acid (PLFA) analysis indicated a striking shift in the overall soil microbial communities due to the presence of a predator. The combined treatments (with C5Ps and C5Ec) further increased the Microbial Carbon Biomass (MBC) to 223.59% and 310.57% as compared to control and PGPB treatments respectively. A similar enhancement of dehydrogenase enzyme activity was observed in soil samples of rice plants on combined treatments. In contrast, the alkaline phosphatase and fluorescein diacetate enzyme activities were recorded to be more in soil samples treated with PGPB. The combined treatment of rice plants also enhanced the uptake of N and P moderately, as compared to PGPB treated plants. However, this enhancement was significant compared to control plants. The colony-forming unit (CFU) and most probable number (MPN) was found to be more in C5Ec (131.0 ± 3.70×1011 and 5.12 ± 0.06) and C5Ps (24.10 ± 2.19×1010 and 10.52 ± 0.39), as compared to control and PGPB treated soil samples. In conclusion, this is the first study that demonstrates significant modification of root structure and increased nutrient uptake by rice plants through interaction between Kreyellidae sp. and PGPB. In addition, we also report improved respiration and diverse microbial population in soil samples on combined treatment of rice plants.
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on perceived publication pressure among academic researchers in Canada
Authors: Suart Celeste , Neuman Kaitlyn , Truant Ray
Published: September 2021

The phenomenon of “publish-or-perish” in academia, spurred on by limited funding and academic positions, has led to increased competition and pressure on academics to publish. Publication pressure has been linked with multiple negative outcomes, including increased academic misconduct and researcher burnout. COVID-19 has disrupted research worldwide, leading to lost research time and increased anxiety amongst researchers. The objective of this study was to examine how COVID-19 has impacted perceived publication pressure amongst academic researchers in Canada. We used the revised Publication Pressure Questionnaire, in addition to Likert-type questions to discern respondents’ beliefs and concerns about the impact of COVID-19 on academic publishing. We found that publication pressure increased across academic researchers in Canada following the pandemic, with respondents reporting increased stress, increased pessimism, and decreased access to support related to publishing. Doctoral students reported the highest levels of stress and pessimism, while principal investigators had the most access to publication support. There were no significant differences in publication pressure reported between different research disciplines. Women and non-binary or genderfluid respondents reported higher stress and pessimism than men. We also identified differences in perceived publication pressure based on respondents’ publication frequency and other demographic factors, including disability and citizenship status. Overall, we document a snapshot of perceived publication pressure in Canada across researchers of different academic career stages and disciplines. This information can be used to guide the creation of researcher supports, as well as identify groups of researchers who may benefit from targeted resources.
Photoselective Nets Alter Apple Canopy Air Temperature and Carbon Translocation during Dormancy and Budbreak
Authors: Boini Alexandra , Muzzi Enrico , Tixier Aude , Zwieniecki Maciej , Manfrini Luigi , Grappadelli Luca Corelli
Published: September 2021

Photoselective nets were used to examine apple shoot physiology during dormancy and budbreak. Two trials were conducted: one in the field and one in controlled conditions. In the first, three colored nets (red, blue, and white, shading 20%) covered sections of single trees, leaving an empty portion as control, from December to April. The white net increased canopy air temperature compared with the blue one. Differences were found in carbohydrate seasonal patterns; however, it appeared that soil temperature had higher impacts on sugar movement in the trees. No differences were found in bud phenology. In the second trial, cuttings were placed in boxes constructed with the same-colored nets and monitored from the end of February to April. Results showed differences in phenology and carbohydrate translocation. The white box hastened bloom and its cuttings had higher amounts of carbohydrates at the end of the trial. On the contrary, the blue box delayed bloom while resources were still being consumed and its cuttings had the lowest amounts of reserves at the end of the trial. These results add new insights on apple physiology under different light spectra and commercial applications should not be excluded for improving crop management.
Polymorphous Adenocarcinoma of Lacrimal Gland: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Osama Md Ali , Rao Seema , Grover A K
Published: September 2021

Polymorphous adenocarcinoma is a slow growing malignant tumor of minor salivary glands. The most common location of these tumors is palate, buccal mucosa, upper lip, floor of mouth and retromolar region. This malignant neoplasm is characterized by cytological uniformity, architectural diversity and infiltrative growth pattern. This is a case report of polymorphous adenocarcinoma occurring in lacrimal gland. They are seldom reported in this location and propose unique diagnostic challenges.
Cognitive and Medical Misanthropology: Corona Parties and Kolo Dancing by the Monument
Authors: Žikić Bojan ,   Department of Ethnology and Anthropology, Faculty of Philosophy, University of Belgrade
Published: September 2021

This paper looks at so-called corona parties in Serbia, which can be seen as a specific paradigm of exhibiting irresponsible health behavior during an epidemic. The term refers to illegal gatherings of a large number of people in circumstances when all gatherings are restricted under anti-epidemic measures. A phenomenon similar to corona parties and co-ocurring with them in the Serbian socio-cultural and pandemic temporal context, is the dancing of the traditional kolo dance in public spaces. Both phenomena represent a conscious disregard for one's own health and of regulations introduced by the authorities, and at the same time an emphatic public display of indifference towards the epidemiological situation in the country, and rejection of the consequent legal restrictions on public life. The paper aims to establish the cultural background of such behavior, i.e. to ascertain its socio-cultural meaning. The indirect or direct endangerment of one’s own or other people’s health, particularly in a pandemic, can be seen as a misanthropic act. The cultural notions on which such irrational behavior is based are a consequence of a postmodernist relativization of previously existing socio-cultural discourse on science, and are counterintuitive. Behavior based on these notions is an irrational response to changes in socio-cultural reality due to COVID-19. The response is not only irrational but also ineffective, as it cannot eliminate the undesired consequences of the given situation, neither in terms of the illness itself, nor in terms of how it will be managed by those who have been put in charge by the government. Due to this, such behavior can also be seen simply as a deliberate defiance of rules. The misanthropic quality of the behavior of those who ignore anti-epidemic measures by dancing kolo in the streets or attending corona parties is evident in the conscious rejection of the principle of not harming others. Ignoring the possible health risks to themselves, they ignore the possible health risks to others, and thus become social factors of biological contagion. It is in this way that such behavior becomes the cause of the extension of the very state of socio-cultural reality against which it is supposed to be directed.
Until Death Do Us Part and They Upload Us Into Clones: An Analysis of Film Narratives About Mind Uploading and the Myth of Immortality
Authors: Zlatović Anja ,   PhD Candidate at Department of Ethnology and Anthropology, Faculty of Philosophy, University of Belgrade
Published: September 2021

The fear of death and the myth of immortality are themes long present in various narratives, whether literary or visual. Science fiction as a genre offers us many venues for new explorations of this idea. Mind uploading is one of them. This fictional technique, related to cloning, is performed when the mind and consciousness of a person are transferred to another biological body or machine with the help of technology. In this way, a person continues their social life through their brain functions. This paper looks at four separate recent screen narratives – the movies Self/less, Transcendence, and Replicas, and the episode “Be Right Back” of the TV show Black Mirror. With the help of Tzvetan Todorov’s structural analysis, we find clauses that are present in all of the plots and see what ideas and topics they share. The paper also uses the idea of anthropological reading of science fiction and therefore uses scientific research to analyze these themes. By looking at anthropological findings of immortality, mortality, death in modern society, and digital techniques, we see how the analyzed narratives portray a unique mixture of fear of and longing for all the mentioned processes and ideas. Finally, this paper shows how science fiction could possibly reflect reality – both through presenting thoughts of society and inspiring future technological advances and ideas (in this case, the quest for immortality). While humans are still far from achieving eternal life, the mentioned screen narratives portray the growing stream of ideas that deal with mind uploading in the age of the internet and social media.
Orthodontic patient co-operation: a review of the clinician’s role in predicting and improving patient compliance
Authors: Firth Fiona , Bennani Florence , Stacknik Suzan , Farella Mauro
Published: September 2021

This systematic narrative review outlines factors associated with patient co-operation during orthodontic treatment. The co-operation of orthodontic patients, related to oral hygiene, appliance wear, diet and appointment attendance, can be highly influential on treatment outcome and the development of a number of potential adverse effects. While each patient is an individual with unique variations, patient age, gender, socio-economic status, parental relationships and psychological factors have been regarded as potential predictors of compliance. The assessment of potential patient co-operation can be difficult. A number of predictive methods have been attempted, including survey-based scales and subjective measurements, although, at present, clinicians lack a reliable quantitative tool for co-operation determination. Through communication, clinicians may alter patient co-operation. However, an individualised, patient-centred approach and the development of a relationship between the orthodontist and the patient remain essential.
First report of Meloidogyne incognita infecting Cannabis sativa in Alabama
Authors: Lawaju Bisho R. , Groover William , Kelton Jessica , Conner Kassie , Sikora Edward , Lawrence Kathy S.
Published: September 2021

Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) is a new crop in Alabama. In 2019, symptomatic plants with stunted growth, poor root development, and numerous galls were observed in hemp plants grown in Geneva County, AL. After harvest, soil samples were collected from areas with the symptomatic plants and root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne spp.) were found in the soil. Based on morphological features and the polymerase chain reactions using species-specific primers, it was identified as Meloidogyne incognita. Further, a host differential test in a greenhouse assay confirmed it to be M. incognita race 3. The pathogenicity of the nematode to the hemp was confirmed by a modified version of Koch’s postulates. To our knowledge, this is the first report of M. incognita infecting Cannabis sativa in Alabama.
CORRELATION BETWEEN C- REACTIVE PROTEIN AND LIPID ABNORMALITIES IN SUBJECTS WITH ISCHEMIC STROKE
Authors: Vasanth Pentyala Susmitha , Tadiboina Abhilash
Published: September 2021

Cerebrovascular accident, which has considerable mortality and morbidity,deservesattention towards its prevention. The first lines of defense in stroke prevention are detecting and adequately treating manageable risk factors, C-Reactive protein, an acute phase reactant is an indicator ofunderlying systemic inflammation and a novel marker for atherothrombotic disease. Present study is an attempt to study the levels of C-Reactive protein in acute thromboembolic stroke and to correlate between serum C Reactive protein levels and lipid profile in acute ischemic stroke.
The Relationship Between First-Trimester Aneuploidy Markers and Birth Weight
Authors: Soysal Cenk , Biyik İsmail , Erten Özlem , Ince Onur , Sari Hatice , Keskin Nadi , Tasci Yasemin
Published: September 2021

OBJECTIVE: We aimed to determine the relationship between the first-trimester aneuploidy screeningma and the predicted weight at birth: Small for gestational age and large for gestational age.
STUDY DESIGN: 594 low-risk pregnant women with a singleton pregnancy, who underwent first-trimester aneuploidy screening by measuring nuchal translucency, maternal serum free beta-human chorionic gonadotropin, and pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A were included in the study. Those weighing above the 3rd percentile and below the 10th percentile were defined as small for gestational age, and those over the 90th percentile were defined as large for gestational age.
RESULTS: A total of 594 pregnant women were enrolled. The mean maternal age of the studied group was 28.8±5.5 years. Low maternal serum pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A levels and decreased nuchal translucency measurements were associated with the small for gestational age newborn (p<0.001 and p=0.001, respectively). There is a significant correlation with large for gestational age for newborns only with an increase in maternal serum pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A levels (p=0.001). beta-human chorionic gonadotropin levels were not associated with the birth weight (p=0.735).
CONCLUSION: Maternal serum pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A levels, one of the markers in first-trimester aneuploidy screening, can be used in the prediction of small for gestational age and large for gestational age However, due to its low correlation, it is not a suitable screening test for clinical practice.
Regenerative Potential of Stem Cell-derived Extracellular Vesicles in Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)
Authors: Herbert Franklin J. , Bharathi Dhivya , Suresh Sevanthy , David Ernest , Kumar Sanjay
Published: September 2021

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Spinal cord injury is a devastating condition that is critically challenging and progressive,
needing immediate medical attention due to its complex pathophysiology and affecting the social
status and economic burden. Stem cell therapy has been the emerging therapeutic trend to treat
various diseases for decades. Mesenchymal stem cells pose more advantages over other stem cells
in immune-modulation, immune evasiveness, self-renewal, multipotency, etc. Due to various issues
in the recent past related to allogenic transplants, ethical concerns in obtaining tissues and
adult cells, host immune response, GMP grade production and certification, cell-derived products
or cell secretome have proven to be a promising approach and have been implicated in many
studies and also in many clinical trials. Utilization of these human MSC-derived exosomes/extracellular
vesicles in spinal cord injury has also been demonstrated in many pre-clinical animal models.
It is now proven to be therapeutically more efficient and safer than cell therapy. This review focuses
on employing human MSC derived EVs for SCI and continues to elucidate the recent advances
and emerging EVs trends from other cell types. We discuss biomaterial-based synergistic intervention,
mention mimetics and nanovesicles and finally touch upon safety concerns in EV therapy.