bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Benefits of haemoglobin in the cladoceran crustaceanDaphnia magna
Authors: Pirow R. , Bäumer C. , Paul R. J.
Published: April 2021

To determine the contribution of haemoglobin (Hb) to the hypoxia-tolerance of Daphnia magna, we exposed Hb-poor and Hb-rich individuals (2.4–2.8 mm long) to a stepwise decrease in ambient oxygen partial pressure (PO2amb) over a period of 51 min from normoxia (20.56 kPa) to anoxia (<0.27 kPa) and looked for differences in their physiological performance. The haem-based concentrations of Hb in the haemolymph were 49 μmol l–1 in Hb-poor and 337 μmol l–1 in Hb-rich animals, respectively. The experimental apparatus made simultaneous measurement of appendage beating rate (fa), NADH fluorescence intensity (INADH) of the appendage muscles, heart rate (fh) and in vivo Hb oxygen-saturation possible. In response to progressive, moderate hypoxia, both groups showed pronounced tachycardia and a slight decrease in fa. The fa and fh of Hb-rich animals were generally 4–6 % lower than those of Hb-poor animals. In addition, Hb-rich animals showed a significant decrease in the PO2amb at which the Hb in the heart region was half-saturated and a striking reduction in the critical PO2amb of appendage-related variables. In Hb-poor animals, the INADH signal indicated that the oxygen supply to the limb muscle tissue started to become impeded at a critical PO2amb of 4.75 kPa, although the high level of fa was largely maintained until 1.77 kPa. The obvious discrepancy between these two critical PO2amb values suggested an anaerobic supplementation of energy provision in the range 4.75–1.77 kPa. The fact that INADH of Hb-rich animals did not rise until PO2amb fell below 1.32 kPa strongly suggests that the extra Hb available to Hb-rich animals ensured an adequate oxygen supply to the limb muscle tissue in the PO2amb range 4.75–1.32 kPa. This finding illustrates the physiological benefit of Hb in enabling the animal to sustain its aerobic metabolism as the energetically most efficient mode of fuel utilization under conditions of reduced oxygen availability.
Singlet-to-Triplet Absorption for Near-Infrared-to-Visible Photon Upconversion
Authors: Sasaki Yoichi , Amemori Shogo , Yanai Nobuhiro , Kimizuka Nobuo
Published: April 2021

This review highlights the advancement of molecular triplet donors showing singlet-to-triplet (S–T) absorption and their utilization for triplet-triplet annihilation-based photon upconversion (TTA-UC). Circumvention of thermal energy loss associated with intersystem crossing (ISC) through the use of S–T absorption results in UC from near-infrared (NIR) light to yellow, blue, and even violet light, achieving an unprecedentedly large UC spectral shift. Taking advantage of the molecular donor's ability to be dispersed in solids without aggregation, efficient solid-state UC materials are also achieved.
Random walk analysis of cave maps for exemplary gypsum caves-mazes of Western Ukraine
Authors: Błachowicz Tomasz , Andreychouk Viacheslav , Domino Krzysztof
Published: April 2021

The paper presents a new method of quantitative parameterization of net geomorphological structures with the use of random walk formalism and an analysis of Hurst exponent distribution derived from random walk experiments. As examples, horizontally developed gypsum caves were elaborated. The provided methodology is able to uniquely characterize cave systems.
Environmental factors affecting splash erosion in the mountain area (the Western Polish Carpathians)
Authors: Kijowska-Strugała Małgorzata , Kiszka Krzysztof
Published: April 2021

The aim of this study was to examine the effects of various environmental factors on splash erosion based on the funnel method under natural conditions. The relationship between splash and wash erosion were also studied. The intermediate timescale study (2012–2016, from May to October) was conducted in the Western Polish Carpathians where Inceptisols predominate. The splash erosion rate (kg m−2) was variable and showed a strong correlation with environmental factors, including rainfall parameters, land use (black fallow, meadow), slope gradient (0°, 11°), and also the particle size of soil and usage time (organic matter content, OM). The splash erosion rate on the slope with black fallow was 95 times higher than in the meadow and up to 20 times higher than in flat area. The average downslope splash erosion was 75% higher than the upslope splash erosion, and the soil particles were detached to maximum heights of 50 cm (downslope). There was a positive correlation between splash erosion and wash and a negative correlation between splash erosion and OM.
Diagnostic and therapeutic delay in Rheumatoid Arthritis patients: Impact on disease outcome
Authors: Naeem Faiza , Anwer khan Saira Elaine , Saeed Muhammad Ahmed , Farman Sumaira
Published: April 2021

Objective: To identify factors causing diagnostic and therapeutic delay in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, and to evaluate relationship of diagnostic and therapeutic delay with disease outcome.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Rheumatology Department, Fatima Memorial Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan, from May 2018 to July 2018. In this study 102 patients fulfilling ACR/EULAR criteria 2010 were enrolled. Lag times were calculated in months: lag-1 (delay in initial medical consultation); lag-2 (delay in consulting rheumatologists); lag-3 (diagnostic delay); lag-4 (therapeutic delay). Disease activity and functional outcome were measured by DAS28, HAQ-DI respectively. Association of lag-3 and lag-4 with HAQ-DI and DAS28 was calculated by Pearson correlation.

Results: Median (IQR) disease duration of study group was 6(2-10) years. Initial consultations were with; orthopedic surgeon 40(39.2%), general practitioner 27(26.5%), rheumatologist 13(12.7%), medical specialists 14(13.7%). Median (IQR) lag times in months: lag-1 (delayed initial consultation): 2(0-5), lag-2 (delay in consulting rheumatologist): 30(7.7-72), lag-3 (diagnostic delay): 12(3-48), lag-4 (therapeutic delay):18(5.7-72). Factors attributed to lag-3 (diagnostic delay) and lag-4 (therapeutic delay) (p<0.05): older Age (r= 0.2), education level (r= - 0.2), initial consultation (non-rheumatologist) (r=0.2), lag-2(r=0.8), >three doctors visited before diagnosis(r=0.6). Positive anti-CCP antibodies(r=0.2) and lag-1 (delayed initial consultation) (r=1) were associated with lag-3 (diagnostic delay) only; no association was found with positive RA factor. Significant correlation (p=<0.05) of lag-3 (diagnostic delay) was found with both DAS28(r=0.2) & HAQ-DI(r=0.2). Similarly lag-4 (therapeutic delay) also correlated with both & DAS28(r=0.2) & HAQ-DI(r=0.3) (p=<0.05).

Conclusion: Diagnostic and therapeutic delay were associated with older age, lower education and delayed consultation with rheumatologist but not with positive RA factor. Positive anti-CCP antibodies were associated with diagnostic delay only. Diagnostic and therapeutic delay led to high disease activity and poor functional outcome in RA patients.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.4.3471

How to cite this:Naeem F, Khan SEA, Saeed MA, Farman S. Diagnostic and therapeutic delay in Rheumatoid Arthritis patients: Impact on disease outcome. Pak J Med Sci. 2021;37(4):1001-1007. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.4.3471

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Frequency of Vitamin-D deficiency in children with Urinary tract infection: A descriptive cross-sectional study
Authors: Qadir Saba , Memon Shazia , Chohan Muhammad Nadeem , Memon Yasmeen
Published: April 2021

Objective: To determine Vitamin-D status in children with urinary tract infection.

Methods: A Cross-sectional study was done at Pediatric Department, Liaquat University Hospital Hyderabad, from July 2019 to March 2020. A total of 172 children of either gender from 2 to 60 months of age with confirmed urinary tract infection (UTI) (having positive urine C/S report) were included in the study. The child who received antibiotics 48 hours prior or already on immunosuppressive drugs and steroids from previous health record or by taking clinically relevant history), children with CKD on vitamin-D supplementation, and known case of Vitamin-D deficiency were also excluded from the study. All study participants were evaluated for vitamin-D level by high performance liquid chromatography. Urine sample was collected for C/S and 1 cc venous blood was taken for Vitamin D status (ng/ml). The mean ± standard deviation (SD) and stratification was calculated for age, duration of urinary tract infection and vitamin-D level. Post stratification chi-square test was applied for all categorical variables at 95% confidence interval (CI) and P-value ≤0.05 was considered significant.

Results: The average age of the patients was 41.51±18.34 months. There were 130 (75.58%) females and 40 (23.25%) males. Most common complaint of the children was fever 150 (87.21%). Vomiting was present in 31 (18.02%), abdominal pain 22 (12.79%) and dysuria in 15 (8.72%) children. A total of 129 (75%) children had pyelonephritis and 15 (25%) had cystitis. (Frequency of vitamin-D deficiency in children with diagnosed UTI was 45.93% (79/172). Mild vitamin D deficiency was present in 42 (53.16%) children, while moderate deficiency in 55 (69.62%) children. E. Coli was the most common pathogen in both mild and moderate vitamin D deficiency i.e., 20 (47.61) and 31 (56.36%) respectively.

Conclusion: The frequency of urinary tract infection is more common in children having vitamin D deficiency.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.4.3896

How to cite this:Qadir S, Memon S, Chohan MN, Memon Y. Frequency of Vitamin-D deficiency in children with Urinary tract infection: A descriptive cross-sectional study. Pak J Med Sci. 2021;37(4):1058-1062. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.4.3896

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Treatment options of Adolescent Gestational Diabetes: Effect on Outcome
Authors: Jasim Shaymaa Kadhim , Al-Momen Hayder , Wahbi Maisaa Anees
Published: April 2021

Objectives: Teenage pregnancy with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) offers a real challenge to the health system and needs a special care. We aimed to evaluate possible obstetrical and neonatal adverse events of different treatment protocols in adolescent GDM including lifestyle, metformin (MTF), and insulin.

Methods: All teen pregnant women ≤ 19 years old visiting Baghdad Teaching Hospital throughout four years (from June 1, 2016 till May 31, 2020) diagnosed with GDM were included in this cohort study and followed-up closely throughout pregnancy and after delivery. Included adolescents were put on lifestyle alone during the first week of presentation. Adolescents who reached target glucose measurements were categorized into lifestyle group, while other adolescents were randomly allocated into MTF and insulin groups. Also, adolescent pregnant women without GDM were recruited as control group using computer randomization.

Results: The GDM (110 cases) and control (121 individuals) groups had matched general features at recruitment except for diabetes family history. Also, GDM treatment groups had matched features. Glycemic readings (fasting and random) was significantly (p< 0.05) higher in insulin group having odds ratio (OR) of 1.41, and 1.57, respectively. In MTF group, significant protective OR was found in preeclampsia (OR=0.76, p< 0.05). MTF showed non-significant protective OR regarding prematurity and five minutes Apgar score>7 [(OR=0.83, p=0.24), and (OR=0.94, p=0.73), respectively], and significant protective association with large for gestational age and admission to neonatal intensive unit. Insulin had significantly higher prematurity, small for gestational age, and hypoglycemia [OR=1.89, 2.53, and 2.84, respectively].

Conclusion: Metformin (MTF) showed less pregnancy and neonatal complications in adolescent GDM than insulin and lifestyle.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.4.3966

How to cite this:Jasim SK, Al-Momen H, Wahbi MA. Treatment options of Adolescent Gestational Diabetes: Effect on Outcome. Pak J Med Sci. 2021;37(4):1139-1144.  doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.4.3966

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Ανάπτυξη και ψυχομετρική επικύρωση κλίμακας αυτοαναφοράς στρατηγικών αναγνωστικής κατανόησης για δίγλωσσους μαθητές
Authors: Μαστροθανάσης Κωνσταντίνος
Published: April 2021

Η παρούσα εργασία περιγράφει την ανάπτυξη και την ψυχομετρική επικύρωση μιας κλίμακας αυτοαναφοράς για την εκτίμηση της χρήσης στρατηγικών αναγνωστικής κατανόησης από δίγλωσσους μαθητές ηλικίας 9 έως 12 ετών. Ο ψυχομετρικός έλεγχος του εργαλείου που κατασκευάστηκε περιλάμβανε εξέταση της εγκυρότητας της εννοιολογικής του κατασκευής και αξιοπιστίας σε δείγμα 247 δίγλωσσων μαθητών δημοτικού σχολείου με τα Ελληνικά ως δεύτερη γλώσσα. Από τους παραπάνω ελέγχους προέκυψε μια αξιόπιστη και αξιολογήσιμη δομή δεκαεννιά ερωτήσεων και τεσσάρων παραγόντων, η οποία περιλαμβάνει ως συστατικά στοιχεία το κριτήριο των γνωστικών στρατηγικών, των μεταγνωστικών, των κοινωνικών και των συναισθηματικών στρατηγικών αναγνωστικής κατανόησης. Τέλος, παρέχονται οδηγίες για τη βαθμολόγηση του εργαλείου και προτείνονται τρόποι ερμηνείας των αποτελεσμάτων του.
Ποιότητα αδελφικής σχέσης και προσαρμογή τυπικώς αναπτυσσόμενων παιδιών και εφήβων με αδελφό/-ή με διανοητική αναπτυξιακή διαταραχή: Βιβλιογραφική ανασκόπηση
Authors: Μανωλοπούλου Χρυσή , Δαβάζογλου Αγγελική , Κόκκινος Κωνσταντίνος Μ.
Published: April 2021

Η ποιότητα της σχέσης ανάμεσα στα αδέλφια, αναμφίβολα, συμβάλλει στην προσαρμογή των Τυπικώς Αναπτυσσόμενων (ΤΑ) παιδιών/εφήβων. Εντούτοις δεν έχει διερευνηθεί επαρκώς η ποιότητα της σχέσης ΤΑ παιδιών/εφήβων με αδελφό/ή με Διανοητική Αναπτυξιακή Διαταραχή (ΔΑΔ) και η επίδρασή της στην προσαρμογή τους. Η παρούσα βιβλιογραφική ανασκόπηση στοχεύει στο να συνθέσει την υπάρχουσα βιβλιογραφία και να επισημάνει καίρια ζητήματα που ανακύπτουν για τη μελλοντική έρευνα. Η ηλεκτρονική αναζήτηση δημοσιευμένων εμπειρικών ερευνών από το 1980 και εφεξής ανέδειξε 52 μελέτες οι οποίες συμπεριλήφθηκαν στην παρούσα ανασκόπηση. Από τα πορίσματα των ερευνών συμπεραίνεται πως η αδελφική σχέση μπορεί να χαρακτηρίζεται από Θαλπωρή/Εγγύτητα και ταυτόχρονα από συγκρούσεις και αντιπαλότητα. Η προσαρμογή των ΤΑ παιδιών/εφήβων μπορεί να επηρεαστεί θετικά ή αρνητικά, είτε να μη διαφοροποιείται συγκριτικά με τα ΤΑ παιδιά/εφήβους χωρίς αδελφό/ή με ΔΑΔ. Τα διαφορετικά πορίσματα των ερευνών μελετώνται στη βάση μεθοδολογικών επιλογών, όπως των ερευνητικών εργαλείων που χρησιμοποιήθηκαν, του αριθμού των συμμετεχόντων, της συμμετοχής ή όχι ομάδας ελέγχου, καθώς και της συμπερίληψης και των δύο γονέων στην έρευνα. Τέλος, συζητούνται οι μεθοδολογικοί περιορισμοί των ερευνών με σκοπό να συνεισφέρουν στην περαιτέρω προαγωγή της σχετικής έρευνας.
Improving breastfeeding support through the implementation of the baby friendly hospital and community initiatives: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Walsh Aisling , Pieterse Pieternella , McCormack Zoe , Chirwa Ellen , Matthews Anne
Published: April 2021

Background: Improved breastfeeding practices have the potential to save the lives of over 823,000 children under 5 years old globally every year. Exclusively breastfeeding infants for the first six months would lead to the largest infant mortality reduction. The Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) is a global campaign by the World Health Organization and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), which promotes best practice to

support breastfeeding in maternity services. The Baby-Friendly Community Initiative (BFCI) is an extension of the BHFI’s 10 th step of the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding and of the BFHI overall. Its focus is on community-based breastfeeding supports for women. There have been no known attempts to synthesise the overall body of evidence on the BFHI in recent years, and no synthesis of empirical research on the BFCI. This scoping review asks the question: what is known about the implementation of the BFHI and the BFCI globally?

Methods and analysis: This scoping review will be conducted according to the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for scoping reviews. Inclusion criteria will follow the Population, Concepts, Contexts approach. A data charting form will be developed and applied to all the included articles. Qualitative and quantitative descriptive analysis will be undertaken. The PAGER (Patterns, Advances, Gaps, Evidence for practice and Research recommendations) methodological framework will be used to analyse and report review findings.

Conclusion: This review will establish gaps in current evidence which will inform areas for future research in relation to this global initiative.
Uncertainties of particulate organic carbon concentrations in the mesopelagic zone of the Atlantic ocean
Authors: Strubinger Sandoval Paul , Dall'Olmo Giorgio , Haines Keith , Rasse Rafael , Ross Jelizaveta
Published: April 2021

Measurements of particulate organic carbon (POC) in the open ocean provide grounds for estimating oceanic carbon budgets and for modelling carbon cycling. The majority of the published POC measurements have been collected at the sea surface. Thus, POC stocks in the upper layer of the water column are relatively well constrained. However, our understanding of the POC distribution and its dynamics in deeper areas is modest due to insufficient in POC measurements. Moreover, the accuracy of published POC estimates is not always quantified, and neither is it fully understood. In this study, we determined the POC concentrations of samples collected in the upper 500 m during an Atlantic Meridional Transect and described a method for quantifying its experimental uncertainties using duplicate measurements. The analysis revealed that the medians of the total experimental uncertainties associated with our POC concentrations in the productive and mesopelagic zones were 2.5(±1.2) mg/m3 and 2.6(±0.6) mg/m3, respectively. In relative terms, these uncertainties corresponded to ~14% and ~ 35% of POC concentrations, respectively. However, despite our best efforts, we could explain only ~ 21% of the total experimental POC uncertainty. The potential sources of this unexplained portion of uncertainty are discussed.
“At first, I was very afraid”—a qualitative description of participants’ views and experiences in the first Human Infection Study in Malawi
Authors: Mtunthama Toto Neema , Gooding Kate , Kapumba Blessings M. , Jambo Kondwani , Rylance Jamie , Burr Sarah , Morton Ben , Gordon Stephen B. , Manda-Taylor Lucinda
Published: April 2021

Background: Human infection studies (HIS) involve deliberately infecting healthy volunteers with a pathogen in a controlled environment to understand infection and support the development of effective vaccines or treatments. HIS research is expanding to many low and middle-income settings to accelerate vaccine development. Given the implementation of the first HIS research to establish the experimental human pneumococcal carriage model’s feasibility, we sought to understand the participant’s opinions and experiences.

Methods: We used a qualitative, descriptive approach to understand participants perceptions and experiences on HIS participation. Sixteen healthy adult participants were invited to participate in in-depth exit interviews to discuss their experiences, motivations and concerns.

Results: Our findings showed that the likelihood of participation in HIS research rests on three essential conditions: motivation to participate, compensation and advocacy. The motivation and decision to participate was based on reasons including altruism, patriotism, monetary and material incentives, and while compensation was deemed appropriate, concerns about unanticipated research-related risks were raised. Participant advocate groups were recommended for increasing awareness and educating others in the broader community about HIS research.

Conclusions: Participants’ experiences of HIS in Malawi provide the basis of what can be acceptable in HIS research in lower-income countries and areas where study procedures could be adjusted.
Aid, Governance and Public Finance Fraud: Evidence from Angola
Authors: Krawczyk Weronika J.
Published: April 2021

This article examines the process of public finance fraud leading to unjust enrichment of ruling elites in Angola, a resource-rich, yet ironically povertytrapped country, owing to decades of rule of José Eduardo dos Santos. It analyses the phenomenon of political corruption in the Angolan context, translating into mismanagement of public revenues coming from natural resources as a means of attaining private economic benefits and consolidating power. Moreover, by examining cross-border inter-company networks aimed at concealing public assets behind front companies, the author attempts to establish a connection between corruption and illicit financial flows. Ultimately, since political corruption is intrinsically linked to governance, the article looks at the impact of the latter on social development as well as on the effectiveness of development aid granted to Angola. It was written based on secondary resources including existing literature and material evidence. Its findings and conclusions correspond with the overall theory postulated by the academic community, maintaining that natural resources and aid have negative impact on governance, institutional accountability, and in consequence on human development, especially in countries characterised by despotic rule.
A Machine Learning-Based System for Predicting Service-Level Failures in Supply Chains
Authors: Melançon Gabrielle Gauthier , Grangier Philippe , Prescott-Gagnon Eric , Sabourin Emmanuel , Rousseau Louis-Martin
Published: April 2021

Despite advanced supply chain planning and execution systems, manufacturers and distributors tend to observe service levels below their targets, owing to different sources of uncertainty and risks. These risks, such as drastic changes in demand, machine failures, or systems not properly configured, can lead to planning or execution issues in the supply chain. It is too expensive to have planners continually track all situations at a granular level to ensure that no deviations or configuration problems occur. We present a machine learning system that predicts service-level failures a few weeks in advance and alerts the planners. The system includes a user interface that explains the alerts and helps to identify failure fixes. We conducted this research in cooperation with Michelin. Through experiments carried out over the course of four phases, we confirmed that machine learning can help predict service-level failures. In our last experiment, planners were able to use these predictions to make adjustments on tires for which failures were predicted, resulting in an improvement in the service level of 10 percentage points. Additionally, the system enabled planners to identify recurrent issues in their supply chain, such as safety-stock computation problems, impacting the overall supply chain efficiency. The proposed system showcases the importance of reducing the silos in supply chain management.
Date Seed, Oat Bran and Quinoa Flours as Elements of Overall Muffin Quality
Authors: Hamzacebi Ozge , Tacer-Caba Zeynep
Published: April 2021

Muffins are desirable bakery products both for their sensorial properties and for ease to be baked with numerous ingredients. Flours of date seed (D), oat bran (O) and quinoa (Q) with different insoluble dietary fibre contents were used in this study, as substitutions to wheat flour either individually (10%, w/w) or as combinations (5% each, w/w) in muffin samples. Suggested combined usage of ingredients aimed to increase the dietary fibre content of muffins while pertaining their overall quality attributes. Total moisture, ash and protein, dietary fibre, weight loss %, volume, specific volume, weight, colour and textural parameters were tested. Results revealed that, quinoa and oat bran flour substituted samples (QO) had the highest cake volume (84.5 ml) and specific volume (2.63 ml/g). Date seed and quinoa flour substitution (DQ) was the best combination with the closest hardness values to control (muffins with 100% wheat flour) samples (0.6 N), rather than an increase. Springiness (2.40 N) and cohesiveness (0.81 mm) were also close to that of control. Samples having date seed flour and quinoa (DQ) and date seed flour and oat bran flour (DO), had also the highest fibre contents, respectively. Thus, combining different fibrous ingredients instead of using them individually efficiently prevented the muffin quality loss. The best combination achieved was the date seed flour with quinoa flour (DQ) giving promising results to achieve healthier muffin production.
Assessment of Obesity using Anthropometric Markers among University Students
Authors: Astha Astha , Krishnan Bindu , Kharde Anup
Published: April 2021

Over the past few decades there has been an increase in the central or abdominal obesity. Endothelial dysfunction, insulin resistance with metabolic syndrome and a higher cardiometabolic risk are directly linked to abdominal obesity. A better understanding of the epidemiology of obesity would provide insights to its mitigation. This cross sectional study was designed to identify Central obesity, General obesity and Normal Weight central obesity among young adults using the following surrogate markers Waist circumference (WC), Waist hip ratio (WHR), Waist height ratio (WtHR) and BMI. After due informed written consent, 300 young adults with equal representation of both sexes (150 each) studying MBBS, Dentistry and Physiotherapy stream in a private university were selected. Various anthropometric measures like weight, hip circumference and waist circumference and height were measured according to WHO STEPS instrument. BMI based on Asia- Pacific cut -off values was used to define general obesity. Central obesity was defined by a Waist Circumference of  80 cm in females and  90 cm in male’s .For waist to height ratio a value of  0.5 in both genders was used. For waist to hip ratio the cut off value used was 0.85 in females and 0.90 in males. An individual with normal weight according to BMI but having central obesity fits into Normal Weight Central obesity category. Average age of the participants was 20.6 1.31 years. General Obesity was more among males with 46% prevalence as compared to 25.33%among females. In contrast, the prevalence of central obesity was more among females. The prevalence of Normal weight central obesity was more among females, varying from 4% to 17% using different types of anthropometric measures for central obesity. A high positive correlation was observed between BMI with WC, WtHR and WHR. (p=0.0001) Current practice of taking only BMI into consideration for defining obesity in our country needs serious re-evaluation considering the increasing prevalence of abdominal obesity and its long term impact.
Effect of Administration of CHAGURO Made of Chayote (Sechium edule) and Tuna (Thunnus sp.) on Rats Induced with Streptozotocin-Nicotinamide and a High-Fat Diet
Authors: Sudargo Toto , Aulia Bianda , Prameswari Atika Anif , Isnansetyo Alim , Puspita Indun Dewi , Budiyanti Siti Ari , Muslichah Rahadyana , Aristasari Tira , Putri Sheila Rosmala , Alfionita Khusnul
Published: April 2021

This study was conducted to develop Chaguro, a low-cost supplementary food made of chayote (Sechium edule (Jacq.) Swartz) and tuna fish (Thunnus sp.), for diabetes and dyslipidemia diet therapy. In order to find a formula with effective hypoglycaemic and antidyslipidemic properties, dried tuna and chayote were mixed at different ratios: F1 (75% tuna, 25% chayote), F2 (50% tuna, 50% chayote), and F3 (25% tuna, 75% chayote). Thirty male Sprague Dawley rats were assigned into healthy control group or groups induced with streptozotocin-nicotinamide and a high-fat diet. Chaguro was administered 2.7 g/ kgBW/ day using a gavage for 28 days. The administration of all Chaguro formulas improved blood markers compared to the negative control group (p < 0.001). Chaguro F2 lowered fasting blood glucose (97.07±1.18 vs 266.31±5.31), total cholesterol (113.59±2.22 vs 208.78±4.31), triglycerides (89.93±2.51 vs 142.35±2.83), LDL-c (33.87±1.87 vs 87.85±3.34) and increased HDL-c (69,08±1,85 vs 23,91±1,64) level the most compared to the negative control group (p < 0.001). Streptozotocin-induced weight loss was also prevented in all diabetic rats fed with Chaguro, with the bodyweight being similar to that of healthy controls at the end of the intervention (p < 0.001). This study found that Chaguro may be a potential food product to help lower blood glucose and improve lipid profile in diabetes and dyslipidemia.
Home in on the child
Authors: Martland Rebecca
Published: April 2021

The revised EYFS will be mandatory from September and while there have been reservations expressed by the sector, on balance there are improvements too. Rebecca Martland provides a practical guide to what is changing and suggests how there is room for individual interpretation and pedagogical approaches.
Thrills and spills
Authors: Clarke Jenni
Published: April 2021

In the first of a series exploring water play, Jenni Clarke suggests how to make the most of opportunities for joyful, spontaneous maths learning, by seizing ‘teachable moments’ and using observation to gauge progress.
My Dad, the Star
Authors: Hart Karen
Published: April 2021

Children will enjoy celebrating their dad or special male person by a creating a a unique ‘Avocado Dad’ or a ‘My Dad, the Star’ card. There is also a guide to making a beauiful ‘Me and My Dad’ bookmark.
Assessment of pain in people living with dementia at the end of life: a systematic review
Authors: McAnee Grainne , Norwood Kelly , Rosato Michael , Leavey Gerry
Published: April 2021

Background:

People with dementia may not receive the same quality of palliative care as those with other life-limiting conditions, particularly at end of life (EoL).

Aims:

To understand the best way to examine pain in people with dementia.

Methods:

A systematic review of tools to assess pain in patients with dementia near the end of life; PubMed, Medline, Embase, EBSCO Host, CINAHL Plus, Web of Science, Psycinfo, PsycArticles and Scopus were searched.

Findings:

A total of 15 articles were identified, which were qualitatively synthesised.

Conclusion:

There are a range of pain assessment tools that are appropriate for use in people with dementia, but all 15 studies used a formal tool. A more robust approach is needed to improve the quality of research for measurement and management of pain in this population.
Study on Properties of Multi Walled Carbon Nanotube Reinforced Aluminum Matrix Composite through Casting Technique
Authors: Pasha S A Shuib , Ahmed M Nayeem , S R Tilak , Kumar B N Anil
Published: April 2021

Composite materials are defined as material systems consisting of mixture of or combination of two or more micro constituents insoluble in each other and differing in form and or material composition. In this study Metal Matrix Composite (MMCs) has been produced using stir casting method for performing the mechanical properties. Most of the engineering industries want light and better mechanical properties of components; this can be achieved by MMCs of Aluminium because of its excellent performance. In this research work we fabricate the Aluminium by liquid route. Here Al 7075 is used as a base metal and Multi Walled Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNT) used as sub metal with various percentages. Experiments were conducted to analyze microstructure, hardness & tensile strength. By using optical microscope and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) we analyze the sample specimens are well dispersion in MWCNT with AA 7075. Hardness and tensile strength increases with increasing of wt. %. Hardness of material increases with increase in percentages of MWCNT, whereas tensile strength of the material increases with increase in percentages of MWCNT and Elongation reduces
Perbandingan frekuensi molting Lobster air tawar (Cherax quadricarinatus) yang diberi pakan komersil dan nanokalsium yang berasal dari cangkang tiram (Crassostrea gigas)
Authors: Handayani Lia , Syahputra Faisal
Published: April 2021

Oyster shell can be used as alternative calcium source. Utilizing of oyster shell into nano calcium flour can be used to decrease solid waste. The usage of nano calcium flour in feed is important applied as calcium supplements with cherax quadricarinatus. The purpose of this research is to study the effect of nano calcium addition on feeds to increase moulting frequency, survival and growth rate of freshwater lobster. This research has been done during 60 days in fisheries Laboratory, Abulyatama University. Two percents nano calcium addition on feeds gives significant effect on growth rate and very significant effect to moulting frequency of freshwater lobster. Which has moulting frequency 2.71. Where the treatment was not added nano calcium has moulted frequency 1.29. But, nano calcium addition on foods did not affect survival rate.Cangkang tiram dapat digunakan sebagai alternatif sumber kalsium. Pemanfaatan cangkang tiram menjadi serbuk nanokalsium dapat mengurangi limbah padat. Penggunaan serbuk nanokalsium pada pakan penting dilakukan sebagai suplemen kalsium untuk lobster air tawar. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh penambahan nanokalsium pada pakan terhadap pertumbuhan, frekuensi molting dan kelangsungan hidup Lobster Air Tawar (LAT). Penelitian ini dilakukan selama 60 hari di laboratorium perikanan, Universitas Abulyatama. Data dianalisa menggunakan uji T (perbandingan) antara lobster yang diberi pakan nanokalsium dan tanpa penambahan nanokalsium. Nanokalsium yang ditambahkan ke dalam pakan sebanyak 2% berpengaruh nyata terhadap pertumbuhan lobster air tawar (thitung ttabel), dan berpengaruh sangat nyata terhadap jumlah molting dengan frekuensi molting 2,71 kali/ekor terhadap lobster yang diberi pakan nano CaO, sedangkan yang diberi pakan komersil hanya 1,29 kali/ekor. Namun, tidak berpengaruh terhadap tingkat kelangsungan hidup (thitung ttabel).
Keragaman Genetik Ikan Cakalang (Katsuwonus pelamis) di Perairan Laut Maluku Utara
Authors: Akbar Nebuchad Nezzar , Labenua Rusmawati
Published: April 2021

Skipjack tuna is a migratory species that migrate globally throughout the ocean. The North Maluku Sea has a big potency on skipjack, this resource has been exploited intensively and gave the negative impact on skipjack population. The genetic data is one of the important information to strategy a better sustainable fisheries management. Hence, the aims of the study were to analyze the genetic diversity data in North Maluku Sea. The samples were collected from three locations, namely Morotai Island, South Halamera and Bacan. A total of 10 samples were collected from every location. The samples were extracted with Chelex 10%, and processing for PCR and sequencing.  The results showed that molecular characteristics in skipjack are 546 (bp). The genetic diversity was ranged from 0.800-1.000 with the total of 28 haplotypes of 30 samples. The genetic diversity is included in high/undisturbed criteria and showed the population still in stable condition.Ikan Cakalang merupakan migratori  spesies yang bermigrasi secara global di seluruh samudera. Potensi ikan cakalang sangat tinggi di perairan laut Maluku Utara. Pemanfaatan sumberdaya ikan cakalang sudah dilakukan lama dan terus menurus sehingga berdampak pada penurunan, oleh karena itu perlu segera dilakukan pengelolaan secara berkelanjutan. Data genetik merupakan salah satu informasi penting untuk menyusun rencana pengelolaannya di perairan laut Maluku Utara. Oleh karena itu penelitian ini bertujuan untuk melakukan analisis keragamana genetik ikan cakalang di perairan Maluku Utara. Sampel ikan diperoleh dari tiga lokasi, yaitu Pulau Moratai, Halamera Selatan dan Bacan, masing-masing lokasi dengan 10 sampel. Hasil penelitian diperoleh karakteristik molekuler pada ikan cakalang 546 (bp). Keragaman genetik ditemukan berkisar 0.800-1.000 dengan jumlah 28 jaringan haplotipe dari 30 sampel. Nilai keragaman genetik masuk dalam kriteria tinggi/baik, sehingga bisa dikatakan bahwa populasi ikan masih dalam kondisi stabil.
Studi keanekaragaman ikan gelodok (Famili: Gobiidae) pada muara Sungai Maro dan Kawasan Mangrove Pantai Kembapi, Merauke
Authors: Maturbongs Modesta Ranny , Elviana Siska , Sunarni Sunarni , DeFretes Dominggus
Published: April 2021

Mudskipper is one species of fish that lives in the estuary area and they have adaptations to two different habitats. The aims of the study was determine the species composition, diversity and abundance of mudskipper species in estuary areas with different locations, namely in the estuary and mangrove areas of Kembapi Beach. Sampling was carried out at low tide, carried out by using a wire mesh tool that was designed separately and manually using hands. The results of research on both research stations were obtained 4 genera and 7 species of mudskipper namely Boleophthalmus boddarti, B. pectinirostris, Oxuderces dentatus, Periophthalmus argentilineatus, P. malaccensis, P. takita and Scartelaos histophorus. Station II in the mangrove area of Kambapi Beach has the highest relative abundance with a percentage of 63.24% obtained from the type of Boleophthalmus boddarti. On the contrary, at station I in the Maro River estuary area, the highest relative abundance was also of the type B. boddarti with a percentage of 32.95%. The range of diversity index values at station I is 0.24 - 1.41 indicating the level of moderate diversity. Station II range of the diversity index during the study ranged from 0.08 to 0.66. The average dominance value at both stations is station I at 0.56 and station II at 0.71.Ikan gelodok merupakan salah satu spesies ikan yang hidup pada daerah estuari dan memiliki adaptasi terhadap dua habitat yang berbeda. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui komposisi jenis, keanekaragaman dan kelimpahan spesies ikan gelodok pada daerah estuari dengan lokasi yang berbeda yaitu pada daerah muara sungai dan kawasan mangrove Pantai Kembapi. Pengambilan sampel  dilakukan pada saat air surut, dilakukan dengan menggunakan alat bubu dari kawat ram yang didesain tersendiri dan secara manual yakni dengan menggunakan tangan. Hasil penelitian pada kedua stasiun penelitian diperoleh sebanyak 4 genus  dan 7 spesies ikan gelodok yaitu  Boleophthalmus boddarti, B. pectinirostris, Oxuderces dentatus, Periophthalmus argentilineatus, P. malaccensis, P. takita dan Scartelaos histophorus. Stasiun II di kawasan mangrove Pantai Kambapi memiliki kelimpahan relatif tertinggi dengan presentase sebesar 63,24% diperoleh dari jenis Boleophthalmus boddarti. Sebaliknya pada stasiun I di daerah muara Sungai Maro,  kelimpahan relative tertinggi juga dari jenis Boleophthalmus boddarti dengan presentase sebesar 32,95%. Kisaran nilai indeks keanekaragaman pada stasiun I sebesar 0,24 – 1,41 menunjukkan tingkat keanekaragaman sedang. Satasiun II kisaran indeks keanekaragaman selama penelitian antara 0,08 – 0,66. Rata-rata nilai dominansi pada kedua stasiun yaitu stasiun I sebesar 0,56 dan stasiun II sebesar 0,71.
Out of touch, out of tune: the social-political construction of atmospheric walls during the COVID-19 pandemic first wave
Authors: Purnell Kandida
Published: April 2021

This article contributes to knowledge on the co-constitutive relation between emotions and bodies by describing the mechanisms enabling the social-political construction of ‘atmospheric walls’ (Ahmed, 2014) during the COVID-19 pandemic first wave of spring-summer 2020. Using auto- and digital ethnographies this article underlines gendered, raced and classed angles of arrival into the spring-summer ‘first wave’ and describes the social-political implications of individual bodies and parts of the body politic losing touch through the pandemic. In particular, this article highlights three mechanisms – angles of arrival, discord and losing touch – leading to the containment of grief within parts of the UK body politic, which, through the COVID-19 pandemic first wave worked to build up atmospheric walls segregating parts of the body politic and allow the continued circulation of some bodies while facilitating the continued circulation, use and using up of others.
Especificitat i variabilitat de les habilitats comunicatives i lingüístiques en infants amb TEA: recursos digitals per a la intervenció
Authors: Escolà Serra Àlex , Aguilar Basés Cristina , Mumbardó-Adam Cristina
Published: April 2021

La intervenció amb infants amb dificultats en comunicació i llenguatge implica necessàriament ajustar els materials i les eines disponibles a les especificitats comunicatives i lingüístiques de cada infant. Ara bé, en el cas d’infants amb trastorn de l’espectre de l’autisme (TEA), la variabilitat existent en les dificultats de comunicació i llenguatge requereixen un coneixement i una comprensió extensos del perfil lingüístic d’aquests infants, així com dels recursos existents, per a una intervenció exitosa que respongui a les seves necessitats i interessos. Així, l’objectiu d’aquest article resideix a descriure les principals alteracions del llenguatge i la comunicació dels infants amb TEA i presentar un recull de recursos digitals per a la intervenció, així com una reflexió entorn del seu ús.
Col·legials majors a l’Audiència borbònica de Catalunya.
Authors: Molas Ribalta Pere
Published: April 2021

Estudi de la presència dels col·legials majors de Castella a l’Audiència borbònica de Catalunya (1716-1808). S’identifiquen els magistrats que havien estat becaris dels sis col·legis majors, la seva procedència geogràfica, familiar i social, la carrera judicial que van fer abans i després de la seva estada a Catalunya, aquesta mateixa estada i la seva activitat cultural, si n’hi va haver. Es completa amb l’estudi de magistrats procedents d’altres col·legis i es compara l’important grup dels col·legials majors amb els d’altres procedències, especialment els provinents de la carrera de varas (corregidors i alcaldes majors) i els advocats. En línies generals es confirma el model conegut de l’Audiència de València, però també s’observen diferències significatives, en especial una presència col·legial més tardana en el cas de Catalunya, deguda a les circumstàncies concretes de formació del tribunal l’any 1716, com ara el nomenament de jutges cessants per la caiguda de Melchor de Macanaz.
Bandwidth and stability of the stochastic parallel gradient descent algorithm for phase control in coherent beam combination
Authors: Björck Matts , Henriksson Markus , Sjökvist Lars
Published: April 2021

The bandwidth and stability limits of the stochastic parallel gradient descent (SPGD) algorithm used for coherent beam combination is investigated by deriving an analytical model for the phase control loop. The analytical model is compared to experiments and numerical simulations using a laboratory tiled coherent beam combination setup. The setup consisted of four sub-beams from fiber-optic collimators and used a backreflected signal as feedback. A rotating phase plate was used to induce phase disturbances into the system. The analytical model compared favorably to numerical simulations and experiments as well as to other studies found in the literature. The results can be used to provide an estimate of the achievable phase control bandwidth of coherent beam combination systems using SPGD as a control algorithm.
Dual-wavelength locking technique for coherent 2-µm differential absorption lidar applications
Authors: Aoki Makoto , Iwai Hironori
Published: April 2021

A dual-wavelength locking technique for coherent 2-µm differential absorption lidar (DIAL) applications has been developed for simultaneously measuring water vapor (

H

2

O

) and radial wind velocity profiles. The two wavelengths for DIAL measurement were stabilized by sidebands of an electro-optic modulated laser, which was locked to the

C
O

2

R30 absorption line. We selected wavelengths of 2050.550 and 2051.103 nm to minimize the effects of height-dependent temperature and pressure variations. The long-term wavelength stability of the two locked lasers of

<

0.2

p
m

, which corresponds to 14 MHz, was achieved. The DIAL instrument using the developed technique meets the requirement of measuring the

H

2

O

concentration with a systematic error

<

5

%

below an altitude of 5 km.
Sex dimorphism in European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax L.): New insights into sex-related growth patterns during very early life stages
Authors: Faggion Sara , Vandeputte Marc , Vergnet Alain , Clota Frédéric , Blanc Marie-Odile , Sanchez Pierre , Ruelle François , Allal François
Published: April 2021

The European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) exhibits female-biased sexual size dimorphism (SSD) early in development. New tagging techniques provide the opportunity to monitor individual sex-related growth during the post-larval and juvenile stages. We produced an experimental population through artificial fertilization and followed a rearing-temperature protocol (~16°C from hatching to 112 days post-hatching, dph; ~20°C from 117 to 358 dph) targeting a roughly balanced sex ratio. The fish were tagged with microchips between 61 and 96 dph in five tagging trials of 50 fish each; individual standard length (SL) was recorded through repeated biometric measurements performed between 83 to 110 dph via image analyses. Body weight (BW) was modelled using the traits measured on the digital pictures (i.e. area, perimeter and volume). At 117 dph, the fish were tagged with microtags and regularly measured for SL and BW until 335 dph. The experiment ended at 358 dph with the sexing of the fish. The sex-ratio at the end of the experiment was significantly in favor of the females (65.6% vs. 34.4%). The females were significantly longer and heavier than the males from 103 dph (~30 mm SL, ~0.44 g BW) to 165 dph, but the modeling of the growth curves suggests that differences in size already existed at 83 dph. A significant difference in the daily growth coefficient (DGC) was observed only between 96 and 103 dph, suggesting a physiological or biological change occurring during this period. The female-biased SSD pattern in European sea bass is thus strongly influenced by very early growth differences between sexes, as already shown in previous studies, and in any case long before gonadal sex differentiation has been started, and thus probably before sex has been determined. This leads to the hypothesis that early growth might be a cause rather than a consequence of sex differentiation in sea bass.