bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrical Methods in Mining Geophysics
Authors: Hohmann Gerald W. , Ward Stanley H.
Published: May 2021

Electrical methods of geophysics are fundamental in mineral exploration because they can directly detect and delineate conductive sulfide minerals. Electromagnetic methods are used in exploring for massive sulfides because of their high conductivity. The introduction of induced polarization in the 1950s represented a major advance in mining geophysics by making possible the direct detection of disseminated sulfides.

Both induced polarization and electromagnetic methods have benefited from research directed at achieving greater resolution and greater depth of exploration. The major advances in induced polarizations have been: digital instrumentation for greater accuracy, techniques for eliminating or reducing electromagnetic coupling effects, and numerical modeling techniques for improved interpretation. In electromagnetics numerical and physical-scaled modeling has led to the recognition of the importance of current channeling and to improved interpretation aids. Broadband, multicoil measurements provide better conductor discrimination in both ground and airborne applications. Time domain electromagnetics is assuming greater importance because of its simplicity of interpretation and capabilities for deep exploration.
Physical Factors that Could Restrict Mineral Supply
Authors: DeYoung John H. , Singer Donald A.
Published: May 2021

Stages in the metal supply process are affected by each of the following physical (geologic) factors: (1) geographic distribution of concentrations of potential ore minerals, (2) depth of these concentrations, (3) mineralogy, (4) grain size of the minerals, and (5) grade and (6) tonnages of the concentrations. For mineral deposits of each type in each geologic and political environment, the lowest cost metal will tend to be produced first because: (1) the largest deposits tend to be found first, (2) the few largest deposits should reap the benefits of economies of scale and will tend to account for the lion’s share of total metal, (3) higher grade deposits that require substantially less energy per ton of metal than do lower grade deposits will be mined first, and (4) deposits that have the mineralogy and grain sizes that are relatively cheap to process will be produced first. Shallow deposits that are relatively cheap to find and mine and deposits near existing infrastructure will also be produced first. Because stages in the supply process are sequential, problems at any stage caused by the physical factors are reflected in subsequent stages and adversely affect production costs. In the long term, effects of such problems will be not physical shortages of metals but a rapid or persistent increase in real prices of metals.
Estimation of the number of clusters on d-dimensional sphere
Authors: Fujita Kazuhisa
Published: May 2021

Spherical data is distributed on the sphere. The data appears in various fields such as meteorology, biology, and natural language processing. However, a method for analysis of spherical data does not develop enough yet. One of the important issues is an estimation of the number of clusters in spherical data. To address the issue, I propose a new method called the Spherical X-means (SX-means) that can estimate the number of clusters on d-dimensional sphere. The SX-means is the model-based method assuming that the data is generated from a mixture of von Mises-Fisher distributions. The present paper explains the proposed method and shows its performance of estimation of the number of clusters.
Adoption of Circular Economy and Environmental Certifications: Perceptions of Tourism SMEs
Authors: Khan Owais , Marrucci Luca , Daddi Tiberio , Bellini Nicola
Published: May 2021

Tourism is one of the most important industries in the world. On the one hand, tourism activities provide a significant boost to many national economies but on the other hand, they severely impact the environment. Tourism SMEs are therefore needed to transform their activities from a linear economy to a circular economy (CE). However, the tourism industry has not yet shown a clear and decisive transition towards CE. There is no or very little academic discussion on why the tourism industry has not yet adopted CE and how tourism SMEs can adopt CE. In this context, we analyzed a sample of 256 tourism SMEs (hotels and accommodations, travel agencies, tour operators, and reservation service activities) based in Cyprus, France, Italy, and Spain. Our survey reveals a ruthless situation regarding the adoption of environmental certifications. There is a very low demand to adopt an environmental certification in the tourism industry. Moreover, the adoption of CE among tourism SMEs is not so high. The main factors that hinder the adoption of green or CE practices are lack of funds, lack of information about potential partners, and lack of skilled personnel. Nonetheless, many tourism SMEs perceive that CE adoption leads to various positive outcomes. Our study provides some suggestions to facilitate the transition towards CE in the tourism industry.
FORCED OSCILLATIONS OF NONLINEAR HYPERBOLIC EQUATIONS WITH FUNCTIONAL ARGUMENTS
Authors: LI WEI-NIAN , CUI BAO-TONG
Published: May 2021

In this paper, sufficient conditions for the forced oscillations of hyperbolic equations with functional arguments of the form
\[\frac{\partial^2}{\partial t^2}=a(t)\Delta u(x, t)+\sum_{i=1}^m a_i(t)\Delta u(x, \rho(t))-\sum_{j=1}^k q_j(x, t)f_j(u(x, \sigma_j(t)))+f(x, t)  \]

$(x, t)\in\Omega\times[0, \infty)$ are obtained, where $\Omega$ is a bounded domain in $\mathbb{R}^n$ with piecewise smooth boundary $\partial\Omega$ and $\Delta$ is the Laplacian in Euclidean $n$-space $\mathbb{R}^n$.
GROUPS WITH SMALL CONJUGACY CLASSES
Authors: HOW G. A. , CHUANG F. C.
Published: May 2021

A group satisfies property (*) iff every conjugacy class has size not greater than 2. This paper proves properties of this type of group and conclude that it is a central product of an abelian group with 2-groups that are "almost" extra special.
Local issues debated on the forum of the Legislative Sejm by the Members of Parliament from the district of Rzeszów in the years 1919–1920
Authors: Sumara Tomasz
Published: May 2021

Parliament members in the Second Polish Republic played leading roles in public and socio-economic
life. The Legislative Sejm laid the foundations for an independent Polish state system. Parliamentarians who
spoke in the parliament forum not only responded to current political and economic concerns, but also discussed problems regarding the regions they came from. In this way, they became representatives of the voters and their interests.
Public speaking as a part of police directorates head's activities
Authors: Popović Goran
Published: May 2021

The fact is that a manager who is characterized by a confident attitude and clear speech will more easily gain the trust of both subordinates and superiors, because in such a way he will convince them of his knowledge and expertise. In this paper, special emphasis has been placed on the complexity of public speaking of the police directorates heads and the importance of preparation for high-quality public speaking. The paper starts from the fact that overcoming the fear of public speaking can contribute to its improvement. It is evident that the police directorates heads have the fear of public speaking, which has strong manifestations that prevent them from achieving the purpose of their speech. On the basis of content analysis, it can be concluded that the police directorates heads can overcome the fear of public speaking by strengthening their self-confidence; by setting realistic expectations; controlling their thoughts and focusing on the topic, meaning and function of performance; visualization; preparation and practice; maintaining contact with the audience; knowing and checking the equipment used during public speaking. It can be concluded that mastering the skills of public speaking will enable a manager to get rid of the fear of public speaking and thus improve his performance. At the same time, it will enable him to be more confident in other fields of management, while constantly enhancing his organizational and managerial qualities.
Hypertriglyceridemia with acute pancreatitis in a 14-year-old girl with diabetic ketoacidosis
Authors: Park Hyojung , Kim Min-Sun , Kim Jiyeon , Lee Sae-Mi , Cho Sung Yoon , Yoo Eun-Gyong , Jin Dong-Kyu
Published: May 2021

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a medically fatal condition in poorly controlled hyperglycemia or newly diagnosed diabetes mellitus. Severe hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) is an uncommon complication of DKA and can be associated with acute pancreatitis (AP). We present the clinical manifestations, laboratory findings, and management of AP associated with HTG in a 14-year-old girl with DKA. The patient, with a 7-year history of type 2 diabetes presented with epigastric pain, 1 month after stopping insulin injection. DKA, severe HTG, and AP were diagnosed based on the laboratory and imaging tests. She recovered from DKA after conventional treatment for DKA, and her triglyceride (TG) level was reduced from 10,867 mg/dL to the normal range after 7 days of admission without antilipid medication. Given that her C-peptide level was not too low and considering her negative diabetes-related antibodies and high TG level, targeted gene panel sequencing was performed on the genes associated with diabetes and HTG. We identified a heterozygous mutation, c.4607C>T (p. Ala1537Val), in ABCC8 related to maturityonset diabetes of the young (MODY) 12. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of HTG-induced AP with DKA in a patient with MODY. In addition, we reviewed the literature for pediatric cases of HTG with DKA. In patients with DKA, timely awareness of severe HTG related to insulin deficiency is crucial for improving the consequences of AP. We recommend considering AP in all DKA patients presenting with severe HTG to ensure early and proper management.
Warunki synoptyczne sprzyjające rozwojowi burz nocnych w Polsce = Synoptic conditions favouring the development of nocturnal thunderstorms in Poland
Authors: Poręba Szymon , Pietras Bartłomiej
Published: May 2021

This article presents research into the meteorological conditions underpinning the development of night thunderstorms in Poland. The main objective was thus to identify the synoptic situations favouring nocturnal thunderstorms, as well as to determine which convection indices are of greatest relevance to forecasts of this type of thunderstorm. The research detailed here was carried out by analysing cloud-to-ground lightning flashes registered in Poland in the years 2002‑2018 via the PERUN system. ERA 5 reanalysis was used to obtain relevant atmospheric parameters and convection indices. In addition, synoptic analysis was carried out for specified thunderstorms, with their dominant structure also determined. No fewer than 1.5 million cloud-to-ground lightning flashes were analysed for the purposes of this study. These data making it clear that the development of nocturnal thunderstorms is favoured primarily in conditions of a waving front, cold front or wind convergence line. In all cases, the jet stream in the upper troposphere emerged as an additional factor increasing the development and activity of nocturnal thunderstorms.
« Je ne m’apitoie plus sur le fait1 » : homosexualité et engagement identitaire dans les écrits et prises de parole de Claude Vivier
Authors: Rhéaume Martine
Published: May 2021

En 1991, la revueCircuitconsacre son numéro double du volume 2 au compositeur Claude Vivier (1948-1983), dont la majeure partie est constituée de ses écrits, remontant jusqu’à son adolescence. Mais alors que l’artiste s’identifiait ouvertement comme homosexuel, le thème est pratiquement absent des catégories d’écrits sélectionnés. Cet article se penche d’abord sur les choix éditoriaux qui ont présidé à l’édition de ses écrits, puis sur leurs conséquences sur la perception du personnage Claude Vivier et de son style musical, en souhaitant attirer l’attention sur d’autres prises de parole publiques et privées du compositeur, dans lesquelles ces aspects sont mis de l’avant, notamment sa correspondance et ses esquisses, disponibles en archives. En offrant des liens avec lesqueer studieset le traitement de l’homosexualité de Tchaïkovski, la personnalité et le style de Vivier seront éclairés d’un éventail plus large de ses propos.
“Isn’t That Life, in a Way: Trying to Accommodate Dissonance?” Reflections on Lesbianism and the Life and Music of Ann Southam
Authors: Bernstein Tamara
Published: May 2021

Canadian composer Ann Southam (1937–2010) was a proud, outspoken, and generous feminist who found affinities between feminism and the minimalist musical language she developed in the late 1970s. At the same time, Southam was a very private person; it was only towards the end of her life that she began to speak on record about being gay. Music writer Tamara Bernstein, a friend of the composer, weighs the merits of focussing on this side of Southam’s life: the willingness with which Southam spoke in her final interviews about the difficulty of coming of age as a lesbian in the 1950s, and the fact that material related to this from her final interview has not been published until now; the importance of remembering how recently

lgbtq

rights were fully enshrined in Canadian law. Finally, alongside a caveat about the dangers of reductivism, and reminders that Southam found musical inspiration in other sources (e.g., nature), the author suggests ways in which Southam’s struggles with a sexual identity considered “dissonant” may have found their way into her music.
Enseigner le métier d’acteur·trice : expériences de formation du corps et approches privilégiées
Authors: Skelling Desmeules Marie-Eve
Published: May 2021

Cet article porte sur les stratégies et les approches axées sur le travail corporel privilégiées par cinq professeur·es (Francine Alepin, Martine Beaulne, Pascal Belleau, Huy Phong Doan et Mélanie Demers) dans le cadre de différents cours de voix, d’interprétation et de mouvement offerts à l’École supérieure de théâtre (ÉST) de l’Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM). En m’appuyant sur la théorie de l’activité (Engeström, 2000), je tisse des liens entre les diverses composantes (sujet, objet, communauté, règles, division du travail, outils, finalité) associées à ces contextes de cours et j’approfondis leur finalité commune d’autorégulation vis-à-vis du travail du corps, un corps à la fois charnel, performant, personnifiant et en relation avec d’autres.
Le livre numérique en bibliothèque au Québec : regards des bibliothécaires
Authors: Lapointe Marie-Claude , Pelbois Christelle , Luckerhoff Jason
Published: May 2021

Dans le cadre d’une approche inductive et qualitative réalisée entre novembre 2020 et janvier 2021, nous avons collecté des données de discours sur le vécu et la réalité quotidienne de 55 professionnels des bibliothèques publiques et d’institutions d’enseignement supérieur relativement aux publics et à leurs usages des livres numériques en bibliothèque au Québec. Nous avons ensuite présenté nos analyses à certains d’entre eux pour discussion. Finalement, nous avons présenté notre ébauche d’analyse à deux experts, l’un dans le domaine de l’édition et l’autre dans les bibliothèques, afin d’en discuter avec eux.
Livres numériques et bibliothèques publiques en Europe francophone : quelle offre ?
Authors: Lemaire Alexandre
Published: May 2021

En 2014 apparaissent en France les premières plateformes de prêt numérique du système PNB (Prêt numérique en bibliothèques). Le système est basé sur une architecture en étoile et les libraires indépendants font partie intégrante du projet.

Se sont posés rapidement des freins techniques (majoritairement liés au verrou numérique d’Adobe) et économiques (coût de l’infrastructure et des acquisitions). Le projet fait pourtant montre d’un caractère novateur, avec un modèle qui permet la simultanéité des prêts.

À ce jour, plus de 500 réseaux de bibliothèques ont rejoint le dispositif, notamment grâce aux espoirs qui reposent sur le nouveau verrou numérique « LCP » et aux négociations de l’association Réseau Carel, qui défend les intérêts des bibliothécaires. Des négociations économiques importantes demeurent néanmoins à mener, et un très grand groupe éditorial reste à convaincre de l’adoption de la simultanéité.

Le manque d’approche globale du projet initial a été partiellement comblé par l’ouverture du projet aux bibliothèques départementales de prêt, mais dont beaucoup hésitent encore à s’engager. Quant à lui, le réseau de lecture publique belge francophone suit, au sein de PNB, une approche coopérative originale qui permet à l’ensemble de sa population d’accéder au même catalogue global.
L’exercice des couvertures comme outil pédagogique pour mieux conscientiser les futures intervenantes et les futurs intervenants en travail social aux réalités autochtones
Authors: Lacroix Marie Émilie
Published: May 2021

Cet article documente la façon dont l’exercice des couvertures a servi d’outil pédagogique pour sensibiliser les futures intervenantes et les futurs intervenants en travail social aux blessures historiques vécues par les Autochtones depuis l’arrivée des Européens en Amérique. L’exercice des couvertures est une expérience pédagogique permettant de revisiter l’histoire telle que vécue par les Premières Nations et transmise oralement à travers les époques. Le cercle de partage qui conclut l’expérience offre une ouverture sur la compréhension des injustices sociales liées aux enjeux politiques ainsi que l’adoption d’une attitude de collaboration.

L’exercice des couvertures est analysé avec une approche expérientielle visant la sensibilisation/conscientisation, et ouvrant sur la réflexion et le pouvoir d’agir. Ce qui enrichit cette démarche, c’est la rencontre des Autochtones et des allochtones, parfois pour une première fois. L’éducation ressort comme le moyen de préparer cette rencontre et d’écrire ensemble un futur rafraîchi.

Le changement qui crée l’espoir doit s’exprimer en actions posées au quotidien, ouvrant le sentier petit pas par petit pas à des alliances diverses.
Le management et la mobilisation des travailleurs : de l’illusio aux désillusions
Authors: Bagaoui Rachid
Published: May 2021

Cette contribution s’intéresse à l’investissement au travail et aux désillusions qui en découlent. À partir d’une enquête menée au sein d’une entreprise, le texte essaye de rendre compte des raisons objectives et subjectives qui poussent les travailleurs à s’investir subjectivement dans une coopération objective avec les intérêts de leurs employeurs au-delà de la rationalité spécifique à leur travail. Il montre que l’analyse des contraintes économiques et celle des stratégies patronales ne suffisent pas à comprendre cet investissement. Il faut aussi se placer du côté des travailleurs pour comprendre leur croyance dans leur jeu et les enjeux et les processus qui mènent à leur adhésion. Le concept d’illusio, concept relationnel forgé par Pierre Bourdieu, permet de comprendre cette dynamique qui s’instaure entre les travailleurs et leur espace d’appartenance.
Axiomes des approches économique, sociologique et politique du marché du travail : un cadre d’analyse théorique
Authors: Maïna Ali A.
Published: May 2021

Le débat autour de la problématique du marché du travail, à l’ère de la mondialisation, qui est essentiellement multidimensionnelle et complexe, occupe une place capitale dans le milieu universitaire et académique, dans les instances décisionnelles du pays et également dans le discours populaire contemporain. Tous les pays visent à utiliser au mieux les forces productives du pays pour que chacun puisse contribuer au succès global. Cependant, la mise en oeuvre de politiques visant à surmonter les problèmes du marché du travail pose des défis majeurs pour le pays. L’article vise à mieux comprendre les perspectives économique, sociologique et politique du marché du travail dans la production de connaissances. Il s’appuie sur des analyses classiques, néoclassiques, monétaristes, keynésiennes, relationnelles et critiques de la notion de marché pour étayer les questions liées au fonctionnement du marché du travail.
Sex differences in biological aging with a focus on human studies
Authors: Hägg Sara , Jylhävä Juulia
Published: May 2021

Aging is a complex biological process characterized by hallmark features accumulating over the life course, shaping the individual's aging trajectory and subsequent disease risks. There is substantial individual variability in the aging process between men and women. In general, women live longer than men, consistent with lower biological ages as assessed by molecular biomarkers, but there is a paradox. Women are frailer and have worse health at the end of life, while men still perform better in physical function examinations. Moreover, many age-related diseases show sex-specific patterns. In this review, we aim to summarize the current knowledge on sexual dimorphism in human studies, with support from animal research, on biological aging and illnesses. We also attempt to place it in the context of the theories of aging, as well as discuss the explanations for the sex differences, for example, the sex-chromosome linked mechanisms and hormonally driven differences.
Single-PanIN-seq unveils that ARID1A deficiency promotes pancreatic tumorigenesis by attenuating KRAS-induced senescence
Authors: Liu Shou , Cao Wenjian , Niu Yichi , Luo Jiayi , Zhao Yanhua , Hu Zhiying , Zong Chenghang
Published: May 2021

ARID1A is one of the most frequently mutated epigenetic regulators in a wide spectrum of cancers. Recent studies have shown that ARID1A deficiency induces global changes in the epigenetic landscape of enhancers and promoters. These broad and complex effects make it challenging to identify the driving mechanisms of ARID1A deficiency in promoting cancer progression. Here, we identified the anti-senescence effect of Arid1a deficiency in the progression of pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PanIN) by profiling the transcriptome of individual PanINs in a mouse model. In a human cell line model, we found that ARID1A deficiency upregulates the expression of aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 family member A1 (ALDH1A1), which plays an essential role in attenuating the senescence induced by oncogenic KRAS through scavenging reactive oxygen species. As a subunit of the SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex, our ATAC sequencing data showed that ARID1A deficiency increases the accessibility of the enhancer region of ALDH1A1. This study provides the first evidence that ARID1A deficiency promotes pancreatic tumorigenesis by attenuating KRAS-induced senescence through the upregulation of ALDH1A1 expression.
A non-genetic, cell cycle-dependent mechanism of platinum resistance in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Gonzalez Rajal Alvaro , Marzec Kamila A , McCloy Rachael A , Nobis Max , Chin Venessa , Hastings Jordan F , Lai Kaitao , Kennerson Marina , Hughes William E , Vaghjiani Vijesh , Timpson Paul , Cain Jason E , Watkins D Neil , Croucher David R , Burgess Andrew
Published: May 2021

We previously used a pulse-based in vitro assay to unveil targetable signalling pathways associated with innate cisplatin resistance in lung adenocarcinoma (Hastings et al., 2020). Here, we advanced this model system and identified a non-genetic mechanism of resistance that drives recovery and regrowth in a subset of cells. Using RNAseq and a suite of biosensors to track single-cell fates both in vitro and in vivo, we identified that early S phase cells have a greater ability to maintain proliferative capacity, which correlated with reduced DNA damage over multiple generations. In contrast, cells in G1, late S or those treated with PARP/RAD51 inhibitors, maintained higher levels of DNA damage and underwent prolonged S/G2 phase arrest and senescence. Combined with our previous work, these data indicate that there is a non-genetic mechanism of resistance in human lung adenocarcinoma that is dependent on the cell cycle stage at the time of cisplatin exposure.
Elsevier Title Level Pricing: Dissecting the Bowl of Spaghetti
Authors: Thornton Joel B. , Brundy Curtis
Published: May 2021

INTRODUCTION This study will explore the issue of pricing opacity associated with prices paid by academic libraries that have recently unbundled from the Elsevier Big Deal journal package. Additionally, this study will provide metrics for assessing the fair market value (FMV) of unbundled journal packages. The pricing metrics will assist academic libraries in negotiations of subscription and open access agreements. METHODS Pricing information was gathered from five academic libraries. The data was analyzed to arrive at two key metrics (adjustment from list price and the average cost per journal) for establishing comparables, i.e., prices paid by similarly sized institutions, to assess the collective FMVs for unbundled Elsevier journal packages. RESULTS & DISCUSSION The study results show that significant variations existed in the way institutions were charged for content. Additionally, the comparables show wide variations among institutions when measured by the overall adjustment from list price and the average cost per journal. CONCLUSION The pricing metrics developed in this study, adjustment from list price (ALP) and average cost per journal (ACJ), will help libraries assess their final net prices for individual journal subscriptions. The results will be useful to administrators, collection development personnel, and negotiating teams in understanding the prices paid by other institutions for unbundled journal packages to determine FMVs.
Assessment of Knowledge and Premarital Screening Regarding Sickle Cell Disease among Adults
Authors: Sakharwade Prerana Tarachandji , Joshi Vaishnavi Dipak
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is the disorder of the blood having tendency to get transferred from one generation to the next generation. Sickle cell disorder may be avoided if people become conscious of their carrier status and can do so by enhancing awareness and undertaking pre-marital screening. Understanding that even the Government of India promotes premarital screening of SCD before marriage. Aim: To assess the knowledge and screening regarding SCD among unmarried adult. Materials and Methods: An analytical research study with a cross-sectional research design was used. A total of 40 unmarried adults including male and female were participated in the study from November 2019 to December 2019. The samples were selected using purposive sampling technique and structured questionnaire was used for data collection and sickling test was used for premarital screening. Results: Most of the unmarried adults had average (40% subject) and good (42.5% subject) level of knowledge (Mean score 9.10±3.07) and for SCD, 18% of adults had positive premarital screening results. There was significant association of knowledge score in relation to education (p-value 0.02) and caste (p-value 0.047) of the adults. Conclusion: The study concluded that considering seriousness of SCD it is needed to get control over SCD and prevent transfer of it from one generation to next generation through public education, screening of SCD and other preventive measures.
A Survey to Assess the Knowledge, Attitude and Practice about COVID-19 Pandemic from West Bengal, India
Authors: Bhowmick Subhrojyoti , Parolia Saksham , Jana Shubham , Kundu Debarati , Karpurkayastha Sujit , Ray Krishnangshu , Das Nina , Mandal Asok Kumar
Published: May 2021

Introduction: The Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) that originated in China in December 2019 was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organisation (WHO) on 11th March, 2020. It has resulted in extensive lockdown measures in India and in the state of West Bengal. Both Central and State Governments have made considerable efforts to increase awareness about the pandemic among the general public. Aim: This study was conducted to assess the Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP) among the general public of West Bengal about the pandemic as no such data is available till date. Materials and Methods: The retrospective survey was undertaken among the general public of the state of West Bengal, India, by means of social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp) through a validated e-questionnaire containing 10 questions during 18th April, 2020 to 3rd May, 2020. Data was captured on Google Forms, which were analysed using appropriate tools. Results: A total of 355 responses were obtained. A 97% of responders were completely aware of the pandemic with 92% practising preventive measures, such as social distancing, washing hands, and wearing a mask. Majority of the participants were young (18-30 years of age) with 51% being males. A 99% of the responders were literate and 86% were from urban dwelling. Total 61% of the participants stated that they have learnt something new after participating in this survey. Conclusion: KAP about COVID-19 pandemic was found to be high in the general population of West Bengal. Involvement of various social media platforms is required for generating mass awareness about COVID-19 in rural West Bengal. Continuous communication and survey by the Government is necessary to spread public awareness as information about COVID-19 is constantly evolving.
Cystic Lymphangioma: A Rare Cause of Haemorrhagic Ascites
Authors: Deshpande Swanit Hemant , Narkhede Vishal , Agarwal Sunny , Dharap Satish Balkrishna
Published: May 2021

Lymphangiomas are congenital malformations of the lymphatic system. Multiple intra-abdominal cystic lymphangiomas are rare in adults. Author present a case of a 39-year-old male, presenting with recurrent episodes of haemorrhagic ascites. Laparoscopic biopsy and imaging investigations revealed multiple intra-abdominal cystic lymphangiomas involving the spleen, the liver and the retro-peritoneum. Surgical excision including splenectomy, excision of retroperitoneal and mesenteric lesions was done. The patient has been asymptomatic for 2 years on follow-up.
Health Beliefs on Chronic Disease Management and Changes in Daily Routine among Thai Pilgrims during the Haj: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Talek Muhammadfahmee , Chaisukkosol Charnchai , Wichaidit Wit
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Serious illnesses and fatalities occur among Haj pilgrims each year, and chronic diseases appear to be the most common causes. However, there appears to be a lack of in-depth information on lifestyle adaptation and behavioural determinants of Haj pilgrims regarding management of chronic diseases during the pilgrimage. Aim: To describe health beliefs regarding management of chronic conditions and adaptation in daily routines among Thai Haj pilgrims who had chronic diseases. Materials and Methods: In this qualitative study, 19 pilgrims and one guide (in Mecca and Medina) were selected by purposive sampling and invited to participate in in-depth interviews after they finished the Haj rituals. Patients 18 years or above being able to communicate in either Thai or Malay languages and history of diagnosis with at least one non-communicable disease were included. Interview recordings were transcribed by a trained transcription writer. The transcriptions were analysed using content analysis. Results: Study participants deemed that they were susceptible to chronic diseases, and symptoms could become severe. However, participants regarded maintenance of good health as a way to follow religious principles, and the Haj was to be performed without assistance from others, when feasible. Participants also reported adapting daily routines according to medical and physical limitations, and strict adherence to prescribed medications. Conclusion: The findings offered insights on health beliefs among Haj pilgrims as reported during the pilgrimage. However, the investigators adapted the interview questions according to the flow of the conversation, which did not allow for standardisation of the questions and responses.
Genetic Differentiation of Clariid Populations using Microsatellite Markers in Kano State Rivers
Authors: Suleiman I. O. , Okeke R.O. , Madu J. M. , Umar A. U. , Akinsola O.M , Echekwu W. O. , Umar D. S.  Bunjah
Published: May 2021

This study aimed to investigate the genetic characterization of strains of Clariid fish species in some river bodies in Kano State using microsatellite markers.One hundred and seventy seven Clariid fish samples (Clariasgariepinus and Heterobranchuslongifilis) were collected from six rivers (Thomas, Ghari, Tiga dam, Duddurun Gaya, Karaye and Bagwai) in Kano state. Blood sample was taken from each fish sample by severing the caudal peduncle and drained into FTA cards for DNA extraction, Polymerase Chain Reaction and electrophoresis to determine genetic variation between the Clariid fish populations.Genealex 6.4 software package was used to analyse the resolve bands from DNA extraction to determine their base pair and genetic variation. Results showed that the Fst values ranged from 0.00 to 0.66, Fit ranged from -0.04 to 0.12, Fis ranged from -0.35 to -0.26. It indicated a large number of gene flow (exchange) among the populations with a range of 0.46 to 0.87. There was an established magnitude of genetic divergence (91.86%) among the populations as shown by the result of the percentage polymorphism which depends on the number of alleles detected per locus and their frequencies. It can be concluded that since there was no inbreeding as shown in the study, none of the population exhibited genetic uniqueness. The populations had a high genetic differentiation between populations but moderate differentiation within populations. The populations were outbred populations; an indication that relatives avoided mating in the population.
Assessing the Medication Adherence of Metabolic Disorders in South India
Authors: Swami P. Aravinda , Kumar R. T. Saravana , Babu S. Manohar
Published: May 2021

Aim: The study's main objective was to assess patients' adherence towards treatment and daily practices among Hypertension (HT), Diabetes Mellitus (DM) Type II and hypothyroid participants in South India before and after providing counseling and education based on WHO                      standards.

Study Design: The present study is a prospective open-labeled observational study.

Place and Duration of the Study: The present study was conducted in Vijayawada, South India for six months.

Methodology: A total of 490 participants with Hypertension, Diabetes Mellitus (Type II) and Hypothyroidism were assessed for adherence based on the Morisky medication adherence scale containing 8 points at the starting of the study and 6 months after providing counseling and education.

Results: At the initial point of study, only 12% of the Hypertensive group, 17% of Diabetes Mellitus (Type II) and 15% Hypothyroid group have high adherence. Towards the completion of the study, around 41% in the Hypertensive group, 50% of Diabetes Mellitus (Type II) and 60% Hypothyroid group had high adherence.

Conclusion: The adherence was low at the initial point of the study among all the three groups. After counseling and education provided through the World Health Organization (WHO) specified criteria, we have seen a good increase in the adherence, measured with the MMAS-8 scale. Greater efforts should be made in educating and counseling the patients suffering from such chronic illnesses to improve their quality of life.
Regulatory Prototype for Biological Products in the United States
Authors: Pavithra G. M. , Venugopal N.
Published: May 2021

Biological products are used for the treatment of many disease, so the biological application submitted for the approval of products are also increasing. The progress of a biosimilarproduct is more difficult and expensive than a small molecule generic product. Biosimilars are not true generic drugs, but demonstrate a high degree of similarity to the reference biological product. In order to improve access to costly biological treatments, a biosimilar pathway in the US was established under the Biologics Price Competition and Innovation Act of 2009. The study highlighted the “Regulatory prospective for the registration of Biological products in US” and a brief description about the development, Manufacturing and approval process of biosimilar products. This article is also focused on the regulatory framework, Biological License Application, Purple book, and Pharmacovigilance of biological products.
A Review of the Hardened Properties of Eco-Friendly Concrete Containing Ground Granulated Blast-furnace Slag
Authors: Sharma Dheeraj , Agrawal Yash , Gupta Trilok , Sharma Ravi
Published: May 2021

Cement manufacture depletes natural resources, requires significant energy usage, and emits large quantities of greenhouse gases. Roughly one tonne of carbon dioxide is released by ordinary Portland cement, which is roughly 7% of global carbon dioxide generation. In concrete production GGBS can be a partial alternative of cement. GGBS is produced by finely grinding of molten slag generated by the process of extraction of iron from ore. In this study the concrete properties incorporating GGBS is reviewed. The hardened properties of concrete incorporating GGBS are discussed. The cement replacement of about 35-40% by GGBS in concrete demonstrates various advantages like less heat of hydration, increase in ductility, increase in strength, reduction in carbon emission and better aesthetics. GGBS improves the durability properties of concrete, such as higher resistance to sulphate attack, increased resistance to alkali-silica reaction, reduced chloride ion penetration which enhances corrosion resistance. Denser microstructure and lower porosity due to the addition of GGBS, which in turn enhances the durability of concrete. With the use of GGBS in concrete, cement content can be reduced, which turns into an eco-friendly solution.
Fatty acid‐binding protein 5 controls lung tumor metastasis by regulating the maturation of natural killer cells in the lung
Authors: Yang Shuhan , Kobayashi Shuhei , Sekino Kaname , Kagawa Yoshiteru , Miyazaki Hirofumi , Kumar Shil Subrata , Abdulaziz Umaru Banlanjo , Wannakul Tunyanat , Owada Yuji
Published: May 2021

Fatty acid‐binding protein (FABP) 5 is highly expressed in various types of tumors and is strongly correlated with tumor growth, development, and metastasis. However, it is unclear how the expression of FABP5 in the host affects tumor progression. In this study, using a lung tumor metastasis model in mice, we found that FABP5‐deficient mice were more susceptible to tumor metastasis, which is accompanied by infiltration of a lower frequency of activated natural killer (NK) cells in the lung. Additionally, FABP5 deficiency leads to impaired maturation of NK cells in the lungs, but not in the bone marrow and spleen. Taken together, our results provide the first evidence that FABP5 in the host regulates lung tumor metastasis through controlling NK cell maturation.
A DNA damage repair gene‐associated signature predicts responses of patients with advanced soft‐tissue sarcoma to treatment with trabectedin
Authors: Moura David S. , Peña‐Chilet Maria , Cordero Varela Juan Antonio , Alvarez‐Alegret Ramiro , Agra‐Pujol Carolina , Izquierdo Francisco , Ramos Rafael , Ortega‐Medina Luis , Martin‐Davila Francisco , Castilla‐Ramirez Carolina , Hernandez‐Leon Carmen Nieves , Romagosa Cleofe , Vaz Salgado Maria Angeles , Lavernia Javier , Bagué Silvia , Mayodormo‐Aranda Empar , Vicioso Luis , Hernández Barceló Jose Emilio , Rubio‐Casadevall Jordi , de Juan Ana , Fiaño‐Valverde Maria Concepcion , Hindi Nadia , Lopez‐Alvarez Maria , Lacerenza Serena , Dopazo Joaquin , Gutierrez Antonio , Alvarez Rosa , Valverde Claudia , Martinez‐Trufero Javier , Martín‐Broto Javier
Published: May 2021

Predictive biomarkers of trabectedin represent an unmet need in advanced soft‐tissue sarcomas (STS). DNA damage repair (DDR) genes, involved in homologous recombination or nucleotide excision repair, had been previously described as biomarkers of trabectedin resistance or sensitivity, respectively. The majority of these studies only focused on specific factors (ERCC1, ERCC5, and BRCA1) and did not evaluate several other DDR‐related genes that could have a relevant role for trabectedin efficacy. In this retrospective translational study, 118 genes involved in DDR were evaluated to determine, by transcriptomics, a predictive gene signature of trabectedin efficacy. A six‐gene predictive signature of trabectedin efficacy was built in a series of 139 tumor samples from patients with advanced STS. Patients in the high‐risk gene signature group showed a significantly worse progression‐free survival compared with patients in the low‐risk group (2.1 vs 6.0 months, respectively). Differential gene expression analysis defined new potential predictive biomarkers of trabectedin sensitivity (PARP3 and CCNH) or resistance (DNAJB11 and PARP1). Our study identified a new gene signature that significantly predicts patients with higher probability to respond to treatment with trabectedin. Targeting some genes of this signature emerges as a potential strategy to enhance trabectedin efficacy.
High‐Cycle Fatigue Behavior of Deep Cryogenic–Elevated Temperature Cycling Treated Sand‐Cast Mg–6Gd–3Y–0.5Zr Alloy
Authors: Liu Wencai , Wen Lu , Meng Dehao , Pang Song , Xiao Lv , Zhou Beiping , Wu Guohua
Published: May 2021

Herein, the high‐cycle fatigue behavior of the sand‐cast Mg–6Gd–3Y–0.5Zr (VW63Z) alloy is investigated. Deep cryogenic–elevated temperature cycling (DCETC) treatment is used to simulate the thermal cycling in space. The results indicate that the DCETC treatment can influence the high‐cycle fatigue performance of the sand‐cast VW63Z alloy. Especially, the fatigue strength of the VW63Z alloy in T6 state is improved to 140 MPa after three DCETC cycles. The changes in fatigue performance arise from the transformation of β′ phases in the DCETC treatment process. In addition, the formation and propagation of the fatigue crack during high‐cycle fatigue test are also studied systematically.
Tunable Superparamagnetic Ring (tSPRing) for Droplet Manipulation
Authors: Nasirimarekani Vahid , Benito‐Lopez Fernando , Basabe‐Desmonts Lourdes
Published: May 2021

The manipulation of droplets via a magnetic field forms the basis of a fascinating technology that is currently in development. Often, the movement of droplets with magnets involves adding magnetic particles in or around the droplet; alternatively, magneto responsive surfaces may also be used. This work, presents and characterizes experimentally the formation and properties of a tunable superparamagnetic ring (tSPRing), which precisely adjusts itself around a water droplet, due to liquid–liquid interaction, and enables the physical manipulation of droplets. The ring is made of an oil‐based ferrofluid, a stable suspension of ferromagnetic particles in an oily phase. It appears spontaneously due to the oil–water interfacial interaction under the influence of a magnetic field. The ferrofluid–water interaction resembles a cupcake assembly, with the surrounding ring only at the base of the droplet. The ring is analogous to a soft matter ring magnet, showing dipole repulsive forces, which stabilizes the droplets on a surface. It enables robust, controllable, and programmable manipulation of enclosed water droplets. This work opens the door to new applications in open surface upside or upside‐down microfluidics and lays the groundwork for new studies on tunable interfaces between two immiscible liquids.
Superamphiphilic TiO2 Composite Surface for Protein Antifouling
Authors: Li Ning , Xu Zhe , Zheng Shuang , Dai Haoyu , Wang Li , Tian Ye , Dong Zhichao , Jiang Lei
Published: May 2021

Unwanted protein adsorption deteriorates fouling processes and reduces analytical device performance. Wettability plays an important role in protein adsorption by affecting interactions between proteins and surfaces. However, the principles of protein adsorption are not completely understood, and surface coatings that exhibit resistance to protein adsorption and long‐term stability still need to be developed. Here, a nanostructured superamphiphilic TiO2 composite (TiO2/SiO2) coating that can effectively prevent nonspecific protein adsorption on water/solid interfaces is reported. The confined water on the superamphiphilic surface enables a low adhesion force and the formation of an energy barrier that plays a key role in preventing protein adsorption. This adaptive design protects the capillary wall from fouling in a harsh environment during the bioanalysis of capillary electrophoresis and is further extended to applications in multifunctional microfluidics for liquid transportation. This facile approach is not only perfectly applied in channels with complicated configurations but may also offer significant insights into the design of advanced superwetting materials to control biomolecule adhesion in biomedical devices, microfluidics, and biological assays.
Transparent, Compliant 3D Mesostructures for Precise Evaluation of Mechanical Characteristics of Organoids
Authors: Ryu Hanjun , Park Yoonseok , Luan Haiwen , Dalgin Gokhan , Jeffris Kira , Yoon Hong‐Joon , Chung Ted S. , Kim Jong Uk , Kwak Sung Soo , Lee Geumbee , Jeong Hyoyoung , Kim Jihye , Bai Wubin , Kim Joohee , Jung Yei Hwan , Tryba Andrew K. , Song Joseph W. , Huang Yonggang , Philipson Louis H. , Finan John D. , Rogers John A.
Published: May 2021

Recently developed methods for transforming 2D patterns of thin‐film materials into 3D mesostructures create many interesting opportunities in microsystems design. A growing area of interest is in multifunctional thermal, electrical, chemical, and optical interfaces to biological tissues, particularly 3D multicellular, millimeter‐scale constructs, such as spheroids, assembloids, and organoids. Herein, examples of 3D mechanical interfaces are presented, in which thin ribbons of parylene‐C form the basis of transparent, highly compliant frameworks that can be reversibly opened and closed to capture, envelop, and mechanically restrain fragile 3D tissues in a gentle, nondestructive manner, for precise measurements of viscoelastic properties using techniques in nanoindentation. Finite element analysis serves as a design tool to guide selection of geometries and material parameters for shape‐matching 3D architectures tailored to organoids of interest. These computational approaches also quantitate all aspects of deformations during the processes of opening and closing the structures and of forces imparted by them onto the surfaces of enclosed soft tissues. Studies of cerebral organoids by nanoindentation show effective Young's moduli in the range from 1.5 to 2.5 kPa depending on the age of the organoid. This collection of results suggests broad utility of compliant 3D mesostructures in noninvasive mechanical measurements of millimeter‐scale, soft biological tissues.
Ion Selective Nanochannels: From Critical Principles to Sensing and Biosensing Applications
Authors: Soozanipour Asieh , Sohrabi Hessamaddin , Abazar Farbod , Khataee Alireza , Noorbakhsh Abdollah , Asadnia Mohsen , Taheri‐Kafrani Asghar , Majidi Mir Reza , Razmjou Amir
Published: May 2021

Nanochannels offer significant practical advantages in many fields due to their interesting characteristics, such as flexibility in shape and size, robustness, low‐cost and their ability to be modified based on the required applications. The effectiveness of ion separation in nanochannels can be assessed based on the selective transport of the desired ions and the rate of the transportation process. This paper aims to provide an extensive review of ion‐based nanochannels, including their working principles and ion‐selective behaviors. Nanochannel fabrication strategies and their applications are discussed. Key nanochannel design factors and their roles in governing ion‐selective transport are also reviewed. The contribution of size, charge, wettability, and recognition ability of the nanochannels on the selectivity mechanisms are discussed. Specific consideration is made to nanochannel applications in sensing and biosensing assays. Finally, an attempt is made to address the commercial implementation and future outlook of the nanochannels to guide researchers in emerging avenues of research.