bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Öznur Özdemir. Abbâsî İhtilâli Modern Dönem Batı Literatürü: Teoriler&Ekoller. İstanbul: Küre Yayınları, 2020, 303 sayfa.
Authors: DOĞAN Nagihan
Published: June 2021

Abbâsî ihtilali erken dönem İslâm tarihine yönelen tarihçilerin en çok ilgilendikleri ve anlamaya çalıştıkları konuların başında gelir. İhtilal hakkındaki rivayetlerin çeşitliliği ve kendi aralarındaki tezatlığı, konu üzerine çalışan tarihçilerin neden, nasıl ve kim sorularına bazen taban tabana zıt cevaplar vermelerine sebebiyet vermiştir. Öznur Özdemir’in 2019 tarihli doktora tezinin kitaplaştırılmış hâli olan çalışma, bu cevapları tartışma hedefiyle Abbâsî ihtilaline değil Abbâsî ihtilali tarihçiliğine odaklanmaktadır. Yazar burada Abbâsî ihtilalinin detaylı ve kronolojik bir anlatımını vermek yerine, onun hangi motivasyonla, hangi koşullar altında ve kimler tarafından gerçekleştirildiğine dair müstakil çalışmalar kaleme alan ya da fikir belirten Batılı tarihçilerin görüşlerini belirli ekoller altında derleyip aralarındaki ortak noktalar ve farklılıkların bir dökümünü sunmayı, kendi deyimiyle Abbâsî ihtilali üzerinden bir tarihçilik haritası çıkarmayı amaçlamıştır.
Variation of anatomical characteristics within the culm of the three Gigantochloa species from Indonesia
Authors: Maulana Muhammad Iqbal , Jeon Woo Seok , Purusatama Byantara Darsan , Nawawi Deded Sarip , Nikmatin Siti , Sari Rita Kartika , Hidayat Wahyu , Febrianto Fauzi , Kim Jong Ho , Lee Seung Hwan , Kim Nam Hun
Published: June 2021

The anatomical features of three valuable commercial Gigantochloa bamboo species growing in Indonesia, including G. pseudoarundinacea, G. apus, and G. atroviolacea, were investigated by optical microscopy. The relative crystallinity and crystalline width of the culm of the bamboo species were examined by an X-ray diffraction method. These species contained vascular bundle of type III. Vascular bundle density was higher in the outer part of bamboo culm than in the inner. Fiber portion decreased from the outer part to the inner part and vice versa for the parenchyma and vessel portions. Fiber length of all species was higher in the outer part than the inner part of the culm. There was a significant difference in the fiber percentage between the bamboo species. Significant differences were also found in vessel diameter and parenchyma cell dimensions among the bamboo species. There was a slight difference in the crystalline properties between the outer and inner parts of the culm and among the bamboo species. All parameters showed a variation in the radial direction of the three bamboo culm but did not show a consistent tendency along the vertical direction.
Comparison of anatomical features in the three Syzygium species
Authors: Kim Jongho , Kim Dohoon , Kim Seonghyun , Suri Intan Fajar , Purusatama Byantara Darsan , Jo Jaeik , Lee Huisoo , Hidayat Wahyu , Febrianto Fauzi , Lee Seunghwan , Kim Namhun
Published: June 2021

This study was conducted to provide foundational anatomical information of three infrequently used wood species growing in tropical areas. Three species of the genus Syzygium, namely the clove tree, kupa, and spicate eugenia, were selected. The representative anatomical features of these species were classified using the International Association of Wood Anatomists (IAWA) anatomical feature list. The representative anatomical features of the clove tree included the distribution of small vessels with tangential diameters of approximately 60 µm in cross-surface, a dense spacing of vessels, the axial parenchyma in narrow bands or lines up to three cells wide, and the body ray cells procumbent with over four rows of upright and/or square marginal cells. The kupa showed axial parenchyma confluent and the body ray cells were procumbent with over four rows of upright and/or square marginal cells. In the spicate eugenia, the axial parenchyma was diffused in aggregate with exclusively uniseriate rays and the body ray cells were procumbent with one row of upright and/or square marginal cells. These three species were easily identified by optical microscopy via the anatomical features of the woods.
COVID-19 and Adolescent Depression and Suicide Risk Screening Outcomes
Authors: Mayne Stephanie L. , Hannan Chloe , Davis Molly , Young Jami F. , Kelly Mary Kate , Powell Maura , Dalembert George , McPeak Katie E. , Jenssen Brian P. , Fiks Alexander G.
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND

Mental health concerns increased during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, but previous studies have not examined depression screening in pediatric primary care. We aimed to describe changes in screening, depressive symptoms, and suicide risk among adolescents during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic.

METHODS

In a repeat cross-sectional analysis of electronic health record data from a large pediatric primary care network, we compared the percentage of primary care visits where adolescents aged 12 to 21 were screened for depression, screened positive for depressive symptoms, or screened positive for suicide risk between June and December 2019 (prepandemic) and June and December 2020 (pandemic). Changes were examined overall, by month, and by sex, race and ethnicity, insurance type, and income. Modified Poisson regression was used to calculate prevalence ratios (PRs) for the prepandemic to pandemic changes.

RESULTS

Depression screening at primary care visits declined from 77.6% to 75.8% during the pandemic period (PR: 0.98, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.90–1.06). The percentage of adolescents screening positive for depressive symptoms increased from 5.0% to 6.2% (PR: 1.24, 95% CI: 1.15–1.34), with greater increases among female, non-Hispanic Black, and non-Hispanic white adolescents. Positive suicide risk screens increased from 6.1% to 7.1% (PR: 1.16, 95% CI: 1.08–1.26), with a 34% relative increase in reporting recent suicidal thoughts among female adolescents (PR: 1.34, 95% CI: 1.18–1.52).

CONCLUSIONS

Results suggest that depression and suicide concerns have increased during the pandemic, especially among female adolescents. Results underscore the importance of consistent depression and suicidality screening.
ЭКСПЕРИМЕНТАЛЬНОЕ ИССЛЕДОВАНИЕ РЕЗОНАНСНЫХ КОЛЕБАНИЙ НЕОДНОРОДНЫХ ЦИЛИНДРИЧЕСКИХ ОБОЛОЧЕК С ОТВЕРСТИЯМИ МЕТОДОМ ГОЛОГРАФИЧЕСКОЙ ИНТЕРФЕРОМЕТРИИ
Authors: Kairov A.S. , Latanskaya L.A. , Kairov V.A.
Published: June 2021

Приведены результаты экспериментальных исследований частот и форм собственных колебаний неоднородных цилиндрических оболочек с отверстиями. Исследования выполнены методом голографической интерферометрии. Установлено влияние отверстий и других конструктивных особенностей на основные динамические характеристики оболочек. Описана методика проведения эксперимента. Экспериментальные данные сопоставляются с численными результатами, полученными методом конечных элементов.
МОДЕЛЬ И РАСЧЕТ ГИДРОМЕХАНИЧЕСКОЙ СИСТЕМЫ РОТОР – ЩЕЛЕВЫЕ УПЛОТНЕНИЯ
Authors: Shevchenko S.S.
Published: June 2021

Построены модель гидромеханической системы ротор – щелевые уплотнения, модели однодисковых роторов, расчётная схема щелевого уплотнения с подвижной втулкой. Получены аналитические зависимости для расчета динамических характеристик гидромеханической системы, описывающие радиально - угловые колебания ротора центробежной машины в щелевых уплотнениях. Получены выражения для построения амплитудных и фазовых частотных характеристик
VIBRATIONS OF A LONGITUDINALLY STIFFENED, LIQUID-FILLED CYLINDRICAL SHELL IN LIQUID
Authors: Alizadeh N. I.
Published: June 2021

In the paper we study free vibrations of a longitudinally stiffened, viscous liquid-filled orthotropic cylindrical shell in ideal liquid. The Navier – Stokеs linearized equation is used to describe the motion of the internal viscous liquid, the motion of the external liquid is described by a wave equation written in the potential by perturbed velocity. Frequency equation of a longitudinally stiffened orthotropic, viscous liquid-contacting cylindrical shell is obtained on the basis of the Hamilton – Ostrogradsky principle of stationarity of action. Characteristic curves of dependence are constructed.
BIOMECHANICAL MODELING OF ELASTIC PROPERTIES OF BONE TISSUE
Authors: Pogrebnoy O. V. , Pogrebnoy O. V.
Published: June 2021

An original method for studying the morphometric characteristics of spongy bone tissue was proposed. Using this method the distribution of the density of the spongy bone tissue of the distal metaepiphysis of the radius was studied. A decrease in the content of spongy bone tissue along the longitudinal axis of the bone has been experimentally proved. Modeling the mechanical properties of spongy bone tissue, according to the known versions of models for the elastic modulus of discontinuous media, makes it possible to calculate the behavior of bone tissue in conditions of various types of interaction. The comparison of the elastic moduli obtained according to our data with the results of other researchers has shown their comparability.
A utilização da acupuntura no controlo da dor crónica em usuários com síndrome vertebral com irradiação
Authors: Carvalho Elisabete Fernandes , Brito Dinis Rodrigues , Barroso Isabel Maria Antunes Rodrigues da Costa , Monteiro Maria João Filomena dos Santos Pinto , Rodrigues Vitor Manuel Costa Pereira
Published: June 2021

Objetivos: a acupuntura é, cada vez mais, uma técnica utilizada, em usuários portadores de várias patologias, e, em especial, aquelas que são acompanhadas de dor crónica. Esta pesquisa teve como objetivo geral analisar o efeito da terapêutica não farmacológica de acupuntura e eletroacupuntura para o controle da dor crónica, em usuários com diagnóstico médico de síndrome vertebral com irradiação.Métodos: foi realizada uma pesquisa com dois momentos de avaliação – antes e após sessões de terapêutica não farmacológica de acupuntura e eletroacupuntura. Utilizou-se um questionário com variáveis de caracterização sociodemográfica e clínica, o Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) e Short Form 6 Dimensions (SF-6D).Resultados: participaram no estudo 43 usuários, tendo sido encontradas diferenças estaticamente significativas, do momento 1 para o momento 2 de avaliação, quer no domínio da severidade da dor (p<0,01), quer no domínio interferência da dor no funcionamento diário (p<0,01), assim como nas diferentes dimensões do SF-6D foram encontradas diferenças estatisticamente significativas.Conclusões: salienta-se que a terapêutica não farmacológica de acupuntura e eletroacupuntura em usuários com diagnóstico de síndrome vertebral com irradiação e dor crónica contribuiu para a diminuição da severidade da dor, da interferência da dor no funcionamento diário e melhoria da qualidade de vida relacionada com a saúde.
Self-assessment of some teacher competencies for working with children with disabilities
Authors: Kadum Sandra , Radetić-Paić Mirjana
Published: June 2021

Aim. The aim of this study is to define teacher competencies and some specific differences in self-assessment with regard to the completion of studies according to the new or the old curriculum. Efforts were also made to gain insight into the specific deficiencies of the competencies related to the integrated education and training of children with developmental disabilities.
Methodology. The research was conducted on a sample of 212 regular primary school teachers who dealt with children with disabilities in their work. A questionnaire constructed for the purposes of this research was used. Previously, a pilot study was conducted. Participants were divided into two groups. One group of teachers who were educated according to the old program and teachers who were educated according to the new program in the broad context of working with children with disabilities.
Results. The obtained results indicate differences between the observed groups and the need for continuous (self) assessments of teachers’ responsibilities to enable students with disabilities to learn and thrive in line with their abilities as well as to find alternative ways to meet their different needs in a wider sense. Also, teachers are aware of the need for continuous training in this area. These findings have contributions in the scientific and practical sense.
Learning Continuity during COVID-19 Pandemic using the Virtual Classroom – A Cross-border experimental Multi Case Approach
Authors: Hasan Khandakar Kamrul , Mukherjee Debarshi , Saha Mahasweta
Published: June 2021

Aim. The global pandemic of the COVID-19 outbreak and the subsequent nationwide lockdown have put the endeavours of both academicians and students to the test. The disruptions are even visible in andragogical approaches across higher education institutions both nationally and internationally. Two government-funded universities in India and Bangladesh have decided to explore avenues to switch to an alternative e-platform overcoming the challenges of traditional classroom teaching. The business management faculties of both universities exercise blended learning modules using a design thinking approach.

Methods. This exploratory case study involves university students and teachers reflecting the knowledge delivery mechanism in a collaborative online workspace called Virtual Classroom. The authors have adopted the case method to identify evidence-based practices to improve learning gain. This case is motivated by the profound idea of learning continuity where the agenda of teaching-learning should remain status quo as much as possible, even under the constrained situation.

Results and Conclusion. This study confirms that the use of curriculum-based blended learning modules based on a design thinking approach is gaining momentum to offer courses in which videoconferencing is a useful tool, as an addition to present methods of teaching inside the classroom, to strengthen learning and to inspire students to practice learning. Acceptance of technology has made learning accessible and pervasive, bridging the digital divide.

Originality. It is a pioneering effort to measure the effectiveness of the online learning of two public-funded universities across borders with similar demographics and challenges. This case makes an original contribution through its observation that even the traditional and public-funded universities erstwhile functioning through purely offline mode are gradually switching to online mode. This case also highlights the imminent need for policymakers to augment and integrate blended learning tools with design thinking approaches for tertiary education to reduce the intermittent use of technology, thereby assuring higher learning gain for the students.
Forms of prejudice about christians and social cohesion between university students in Slovakia: media as an essential part of the issue
Authors: Tkáčová Hedviga
Published: June 2021

Aim. The subject of our interest is to research the forms of prejudice about Christians among university students. Part of the research focuses on the question of the forms of prejudices of the research group in relation to religious classmates – peers and part of on significant influence of media on the negative perception of Christianity in the society. The reflection of the findings is a consideration of the decline in social cohesion due to (1) the existence of prejudices in the university environment in Slovakia, and (2) the often negative media presentation of Christian religion in the Slovak media.
Concept. The starting point of the issue is the research into the forms of prejudice and the potential for social exclusion of young people due to the existence of prejudice in the university environment. The need for this kind of research and reasoning arises from growing fears and the strengthening of phobias that accumulate within the groups we observe.
Results and conclusion. The reflection of the findings is a consideration of the decline in social cohesion due to (1) the existence of prejudices in the university environment in Slovakia, and (2) the often negative media presentation of Christian religion in the Slovak media.
Cognitive value. Qualitative statements confirm the decline in social cohesion among peers due to religious diversity. We consider the presence of religious prejudices as an urgent call for such forms of education that would effectively contribute to the acceptance of cultural and religious diversity in society and to the promotion of social cohesion in the university environment.
Determinants of Credit Ratings of Russia’s Regions
Authors: Mikhaylova Anna A. , Timushev Evgeny N.
Published: June 2021

Introduction. A credit rating reflects the degree of debt sustainability of the region, but the issue of its factors at the regional level has been under-researched. The article is based on the conducted study and reveals the major factors that influenced the assignment of credit ratings by Russian and international rating agencies to the regions of Russia.

Materials and Methods. The methodology of both Russian (ACRA and Expert RA) and foreign (Fitch Ratings, S&P Global Ratings, and Moody's Investors Service) rating agencies were analyzed. Factor and correlation analysis was used to group the factors; their quantitative indicators were selected. Ordinal and multinomial logistic regressions (logits) were used to test the explanatory power of the factors.

Results. The negative impact on the rating of the factors of debt, deficit, and the size of the public sector, as well as the positive impact of the size and dynamics of the region’s economy has been corroborated. The negative impact of poverty, as well as the positive impact of life expectancy and the size of capital budget expenditures has been highlighted. Differences in using the indicator of the region’s dependence on subsidies have been revealed: it has been regarded as an insignificant factor by international agencies, but as a negative one by Russian agencies.

Discussion and Conclusion. The authors have established that Russian agencies give priority to quantitative budget indicators, while international ones give priority to traditional economic indicators. The identified significance of the indicators of life expectancy and poverty has become a particularly valuable result as it indicates a direct dependence of the credit rating on the quality of life in the region. The results obtained make it possible to formulate regional budget policy measures aimed at reducing credit risk, expanding debt financing, and increasing the effectiveness of budget policy. The results of the study will be useful not only in the practice of public administration, but also in further scientific research, as they open the way to the analysis of the interdependence between the credit rating and countercyclical fiscal policy measures, as well as to clarify the role of other factors in creditworthiness, especially those of an institutional nature.
Economic Security within the Limits of Economic Complexity
Authors: Voloshenko Ksenia Yu.
Published: June 2021

Introduction. The issues of ensuring economic security of regions (especially of those with a specific situation) taking into account the influence of economic complexity are a novel research problem. The development of regions, primarily the border ones, is determined by two divergent processes: growing economic complexity, determined by external constraints or opportunities, and economic security, associated with the internal potential and resources of the region. Based on the study conducted, the article reveals the features of the interconnection between economic security and economic complexity, the latter determining the innovative and technological limitations to the growth and development of territories.

Materials and Methods. The author has conducted semantic analysis and thematic clustering of economic security using data from bibliographic and reference databases of publications in English (Web of Science) and in Russian (eLIBRARY.RU). The assessment of economic complexity was based on the conducted analysis of the UN Comtrade foreign trade statistics, that of economic security – on the official data published by Rosstat.

Results. The author has identified the terminological connection between economic security and economic complexity, and has provided a theoretical representation of the relations and interdependence of these categories. The paper presents the methodological provisions for studying the economic security of border regions, taking into consideration the possibilities for increasing their economic complexity.

Discussion and Conclusion. In the context of systemic constraints in the development of the region, economic security is largely determined by both the available internal potential and resources, and the possibilities of their use. However, the region gains new capabilities with the increase in its economic complexity, the latter also limiting its economic security. In fact, the choice of key areas for the structural transformation of the region’s economy depends on whether priority is given to maintaining the level of economic security or increasing economic complexity. The mechanism and criteria discussed in this paper, as well as the methodological provisions of such a choice, contribute to further development of the theory of economic security and economic complexity at the regional level and are of practical importance for regional governance.
How do we help people regain control over their lives? An introduction to method of levels therapy
Authors:   Restore Control Ltd, Leeds, United Kingdom, Grzegrzółka Jakub ,   Northpoint Wellbeing Ltd, Leeds, United Kingdom,   Division of Psychology and Mental Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom, Mansell Warren ,   Division of Psychology and Mental Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
Published: June 2021

There are many different approaches to psychotherapy. Research indicates comparable effectiveness of various therapies, despite having different theoretical assumptions and using different therapeutic methods. In recent years, many researchers have attempted to understand such results by investigating specific and common factors in psychotherapy. It has been suggested that further developments in the field should aim to investigate factors underlying mental health problems and the principles informing the process of change in psychotherapy. In the current article, we will present perceptual control theory as a scientifically grounded approach that integrates theory and practice. Transdiagnostic principles explain the sources of emotional distress and the process of psychological change in psychotherapy. The main aim of the article is to introduce method of levels therapy, which has been created as a direct application of perceptual control theory principles. Description of the process of therapy is accompanied by clinical examples.
Instabilities in liquid crystal elastomers
Authors: Mihai L. Angela , Goriely Alain
Published: June 2021

Stability is an important and fruitful avenue of research for liquid crystal elastomers. At constant temperature, upon stretching, the homogeneous state of a nematic body becomes unstable, and alternating shear stripes develop at very low stress. Moreover, these materials can experience classical mechanical effects, such as necking, void nucleation and cavitation, and inflation instability, which are inherited from their polymeric network. We investigate the following two problems: First, how do instabilities in nematic bodies change from those found in purely elastic solids? Second, how are these phenomena modified if the material constants fluctuate? To answer these questions, we present a systematic study of instabilities occurring in nematic liquid crystal elastomers, and examine the contribution of the nematic component and of fluctuating model parameters that follow probability laws. This combined analysis may lead to more realistic estimations of subsequent mechanical damage in nematic solid materials. Because of their complex material responses in the presence of external stimuli, liquid crystal elastomers have many potential applications in science, manufacturing, and medical research. The modeling of these materials requires a multiphysics approach, linking traditional continuum mechanics with liquid crystal theory, and has led to the discovery of intriguing mechanical effects. An important problem for both applications and our fundamental understanding of nematic elastomers is their instability under large strains, as this can be harnessed for actuation, sensing, or patterning. The goal is then to identify parameter values at which a bifurcation emerges, and how these values change with external stimuli, such as temperature or loads. However, constitutive parameters of real manufactured materials have an inherent variation that should also be taken into account, thus the need to quantify uncertainties in physical responses, which can be done by combining the classical field theories with stochastic methods that enable the propagation of uncertainties from input data to output quantities of interest. The present study demonstrates how to characterize instabilities found in nematic liquid crystal elastomers with probabilistic material parameters at the macroscopic scale, and paves the way for a systematic theoretical and experimental study of these fascinating materials.
Conducting materials as building blocks for electronic textiles
Authors: Lund Anja , Wu Yunyun , Fenech-Salerno Benji , Torrisi Felice , Carmichael Tricia Breen , Müller Christian
Published: June 2021

To realize the full gamut of functions that are envisaged for electronic textiles (e-textiles) a range of semiconducting, conducting and electrochemically active materials are needed. This article will discuss how metals, conducting polymers, carbon nanotubes, and two-dimensional (2D) materials, including graphene and MXenes, can be used in concert to create e-textile materials, from fibers and yarns to patterned fabrics. Many of the most promising architectures utilize several classes of materials (e.g., elastic fibers composed of a conducting material and a stretchable polymer, or textile devices constructed with conducting polymers or 2D materials and metal electrodes). While an increasing number of materials and devices display a promising degree of wash and wear resistance, sustainability aspects of e-textiles will require greater attention.

Graphical abstract
Location Selection Query in Google Maps using Voronoi-based Spatial Skyline (VS2) Algorithm
Authors: Annisa Annisa , Angraeni Leni
Published: June 2021

Google Maps is one of the popular location selection systems. One of the popular features of Google Maps is nearby search. For example, someone who wants to find the closest restaurants to his location can use the nearby search feature. This feature only considers one specific location in providing the desired place choice. In a real-world situation, there may be a need to consider more than one location in selecting the desired place. Assume someone would like to choose a hotel close to the conference hall, the museum, beach, and souvenir store. In this situation, nearby search feature in Google Maps may not be able to suggest a list of hotels that are interesting for him based on the distance from each destination places. In this paper, we have successfully developed a web-based application of Google Maps search using Voronoi-based Spatial Skyline (VS2) algorithm to choose some Point Of Interest (POI) from Google Maps as their considered locations to select desired place. We used Google Maps API to provide POI information for our web-based application. The experiment result showed that the execution time increases while the number of considered location increases.
Organization Cybernetics for Railway Supplier Selection
Authors: Jayakrishnan Mailasan , Mohamad Abdul Karim , Mohd Yusof Mokhtar
Published: June 2021

The comprehensive stimulation for this research arises from the necessity to continually understand and investigate the Information System (IS) discipline body of knowledge from organizational practice. Specifically, in this study, we focus on comparing a few available excellence frameworks, data analytics, and cybernetics approaches. Such knowledge and skill practice in the IS field is predominant for both IS research and teaching. On the other hand, to propose a relevant performance reporting model using data analytics and cybernetics that entail a body of knowledge and skill is crucial for the development and transformation of organizational excellence. Yet, it helps to design an online real-time organizational dashboard that produces knowledge for its application and decision-making within an organizational practice. IS discipline in an organization is comparatively young and its specification in academia as well as in practice is rapidly changing, we focus on the practical design, and IS structure for organizational excellence through employing information technologies.
Las Juntas fuera de la Corte: una perspectiva desde la Sevilla del XVII
Authors: Díaz-Blanco José-Manuel , Hernández-Rodríguez Alfonso-J.
Published: June 2021

Los estudios acerca del fenómeno institucional representado por las juntas se han centrado, por lo general, en el ámbito cortesano, asentándose la idea de que estos organismos fueron endémicos de la sede del poder central, íntimamente ligada a la figura real. El presente trabajo, sin embargo, plantea la posibilidad de que su desarrollo en el seno de la Monarquía Hispánica se extendiera a otros espacios, como, por ejemplo, Sevilla. Esta ciudad, cabeza del monopolio comercial con las Indias, conoció a lo largo del siglo XVII varias experiencias junteras: la Junta de la Avería, la Junta de Ministros de 1630 y la Junta de la Quietud en 1652. A través del análisis de su estructura, facultades y trayectoria, confrontaremos sus similitudes y diferencias, ponderando su importancia en relación con otras instituciones contemporáneas.
Measuring Disability: An Examination of Differences Between the Washington Group Short Set on Functioning and the American Community Survey Disability Questions
Authors: Weeks Julie , Dahlhamer James , Madans Jennifer , Maitland Aaron
Published: June 2021

This report examines differences in survey reports of disability between two sets of disability questions, the Short Set on Functioning (WG-SS) developed by the Washington Group on Disability Statistics (WG) and a set of disability questions developed for the American Community Survey (ACS).
Machine Learning Application in Genomic, Exercise, and Vital Datasets
Authors: Baek Kyung-Wan , Park Jung-Jun , Gim Jeong-An
Published: June 2021

PURPOSE: Machine learning (ML) refers to newly developed computer algorithms that are improved through iterative experiences. ML applications are expected to assist humans in analyzing large amounts of data. This review has outlined the application of ML in analyzing variable vital data such as walking steps, exercise intensity, heart rate, sleeping hours, sleep quality, resting heart rate, blood pressure, and calorie consumption in a day. Vital data consist of different variables that are closely related to genomic or exercise data. The prediction of healthy traits from a vital dataset has become a necessity in personalized medicine.METHODS: Considerations and repeated tasks in supervised, semi-supervised, and unsupervised ML methods are presented. ML methods such as artificial neural networks, Bayesian networks, support vector machines, and decision trees have been widely used in biomedical studies to develop predictive models. Through vital data, these models can help in effective and accurate decision-making for a healthier life.
PURPOSE: Models based on genomic, exercise, and vital datasets provide a healthy lifestyle through regular exercise. We have provided guidelines to help in the selection of these ML methods and their practical application for variable vital data analysis.CONCLUSIONS: Our guidelines could serve as a foundation for implementing both participatory medicine and data-driven exercise science.
Effect of Resistance Training on NADPH Oxidase and Adiponectin in PVAT of OVX Rats
Authors: Guo Erling , Yoon Jin-Hwan , Jo Wooyeon , Jin Jaeho , Lee Sang Ki
Published: June 2021

PURPOSE: Perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) is a type of adipose tissue that surrounds vessels to provide anti-contractile effects. This study aimed to investigate the effect of resistance training on NADPH oxidase, adiponectin, and endothelial NOS (eNOS) expression in the abdominal aorta and PVAT of ovariectomized rats.METHODS: Sprague-Dawley rats at 20 weeks of age were divided into three groups: sham control (Sham, n=10), OVX-control (OVX_ Con, n=10), and OVX-resistance exercise (OVX_Rex, n=10). Resistance training was performed by climbing a ladder for 12 weeks. Western blotting was used to analyze target protein expression in the rat abdominal aorta and PVAT.RESULTS: NADPH oxidase (p67phox) expression was significantly higher in the OVX_Con group than in the sham group, but it was significantly decreased in the OVX_Rex group. The expression of adiponectin, AKT, and eNOS in both abdominal aorta and PVAT was significantly reduced in the OVX_Con group than in the Sham group, but it was improved in the OVX_Rex group.CONCLUSIONS:The results suggest that regular resistance training inhibits p67phox and increases adiponectin expression and phosphorylation of AKT and eNOS in abdominal aortic PVAT of ovariectomized rats.
The Association Between Estimated Cardiorespiratory Fitness and Sarcopenic Obesity in Middle-Aged and Older Adults
Authors: Kim Jeonghyeon , Lee Inhwan , Kang Hyunsik
Published: June 2021

PURPOSE:This study aimed to examine the association between estimated cardiorespiratory fitness (eCRF) and sarcopenic obesity in Korean middle-aged and older adults.METHODS:This study used the data from the 2008–2011 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey involving 8,252 Korean adults aged ≥50 years (56.6% women). Participants were classified into normal, sarcopenia, obesity, and sarcopenic obesity groups based on the presence of sarcopenia and/or obesity phenotypes. eCRF was assessed using sex-specific algorithms and classified as low (lowest 25%), middle (middle 50%), and high (highest 25%) categories. Logistic regression analyses were used to estimate the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for the risk of sarcopenic obesity according to eCRF categories.RESULTS: The middle and low eCRF groups had a significantly higher risk of sarcopenia (OR=1.688, 95% CI=1.438–1.981 and OR=2.877, 95% CI=2.366–3.498; respectively) than the high eCRF group (OR=1), a significantly higher risk of obesity (OR=1.810, 95% CI=1.533–2.137 and OR=5.103, 95% CI=4.234–6.151; respectively) than the high eCRF group (OR=1), and a significantly higher risk of sarcopenic obesity (OR=2.852, 95% CI=2.371–3.429 and OR=12.008, 95% CI=9.866–14.616; respectively) than the high eCRF group (OR=1). The risks of sarcopenia, obesity, and sarcopenic obesity in the middle and low eCRF groups remained statistically significant after adjusting for all the measured covariates.CONCLUSION: The results suggest that eCRF is an independent predictor of sarcopenic obesity in Korean middle-aged and older adults, implying the importance of promotion of CRF as a preventive measure against sarcopenic obesity.
Impact of a large dam on reproduction of a non-migratory teleost species, Acestrorhynchus lacustris (Characiformes: Acestrorhynchidae)
Authors: Gomes R. Z. , Paschoalini A. L. , Weber A. A. , Santiago K. B. , Rizzo E. , Bazzoli N.
Published: June 2021

Abstract The release of water from the reservoir hypolimnion, lower concentration of oxygen and the anthropogenic regulation of the river flow, could affect the reproduction of fish, especially migratory species. However, little is known about the effects of these changes in water on non-migratory species. In this sense, the reproduction of Acestrohynchus lacustris was evaluated in two sections of São Francisco River, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Section 1, located immediately downstream from Três Marias Dam (18°09’31.65”S and 45°13’36.00”W) and section 2, located at the confluence of the São Francisco and the Abaeté Rivers (18°02’47.78”S and 45°10’57.95”W). For this, we obtained the physico-chemical parameters of water of each study section. Additionally, biometric data and biological indices of all specimens were measured. Fecundity and follicles diameters were measured in females. Temperature, dissolved oxygen and flow showed lower values in section 1. Fish captured in this section, had lower values of GSI in both sexes, and females presented decreased values of fecundity and follicles diameter. This species showed reproductive activity in the two sections analyzed, however, in section 1 where the temperature and dissolved oxygen presented significant lower values, the reproductive capacity of A. lacustris, was negatively affected.
Use of melatonin as an inhibitor of apoptotic process for cryopreservation of zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos
Authors: Castro P. L. , Ferraz A. L. J. , Patil J. G. , Ribeiro R. P.
Published: June 2021

Abstract This study investigated the use of melatonin to arrest the effects of apoptosis in vitrified zebrafish (D. rerio) embryos. Dechorionated embryos at 22-24 somite-stage were divided (n = 60/treatment) into a non-vitrified (Control Group, 0 M melatonin) and vitrified treatments with 0 M (T1), 1 µM (T2) and 1 mM of melatonin (T3). For vitrified treatments, a solution methanol/propylene glycol based was used and the embryos stored in -196 °C for a week. After thaw, survival rate, scanning electron microscopy, expression of anti (bcl-2) and pro-apoptotic (bax/caspase-3) genes, reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation and DNA fragmentation analyses were performed. No live embryos were obtained from vitrified treatments, observing a rapid degeneration immediately after thawing, with the vitelline layer rupture and leakage of its content, followed by breakdown of epithelial cells and melanisation of the tissue. Regarding the apoptotic process, T3 had the highest relative gene expression, for the three genes (P < 0.05) furthermore, T2 had similar expression of pro-apoptotic genes to CG (P < 0.05). ROS formation revealed that CG presented lower percentage of embryo surface area affected (3.80 ± 0.40%) (P < 0.05), in contrast, no differences were found among the other groups. T1 was most significantly (P < 0.05) damaged by DNA fragmentation. The vitrified groups with melatonin had similar damage levels of CG (P > 0.05). The inclusion of 1 µM of melatonin in the vitrifying solution, countered the effects of apoptotic process in post-thaw embryos, suggesting its utility in cryopreserving fish embryos.
PCR-RFLP Based genetic diversity of Plasmodium vivax genotypes in district Mardan, Pakistan
Authors: Ullah I. , Afridi S. G. , Khan A. U. , Israr M. , Ali A. , Shams S. , Jabeen H. , Rasool A. , Akbar F. , Rahat M. A. , Haris M. , Khan A. , Siraj M. , Shah M.
Published: June 2021

Abstract Plasmodium vivax is the most common human malaria parasite in Asian countries including Pakistan. Present study was designed to explore the genetic diversity of plasmodium vivax genotypes based on Pvmsp-3α and Pvmsp-3βgenes using allelic specific nested PCR and RFLP assays markers from field isolates in district Mardan, Pakistan. Blood samples of 200 P. vivax malarial patients were collected after taking their written informed consent. Genetic diversity in nested PCR products was determined by Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP) utilizing Alu1 and PstI restriction enzymes for alpha and beta gene products digestion, respectively. For analysis the genetic diversity of the sub allelic variants of Pvmsp3α and Pvmsp3β genes, Chi-Square test was performed by utilizing Minitab programming software 18. The P value 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. For Pvmsp-3α genes after gel electrophoresis of digested products, four distinct genotypes were obtained from total of 50 samples; type A: 35 (70%) (1.5-2.0 kb), 12 of type B (24%) (1.5-1.7 kb), 2 of type C (4%) (0.5-1.5) and one for type D (2%) (0.5-0.65 kb) which could be characterized into 9 allelic pattern (A1-A4, B1-B3, C1, D), in which A3 remained the most predominant. For Pvmsp-3βgenes, three distinct genotypes were obtained from 50 samples; 40(80%) of type A (1.5-2.5 kb), 9 (18%) of type B (1.0-1.5kb) and 1(2%) of type C (0.65 kb) which could be characterized into 6 allelic patterns (A1-A3, B1-B2, and C1). Most dominant one in Type A was A1 alleles which were noted (46%), while in Type B, the most dominant were B1 (10%).This study is the first ever report of molecular epidemiology and genetic variation in Pvmsp-3α and Pvmsp-3β genes of P. vivax isolates by using PCR/RFLP from District Mardan and showed a remarkable level of genetic diversity in the studied genes of circulating parasites in the study area. The results of this study will contribute in future studies about the genetic structure of parasite and vaccine development against the malaria.
Phytochemical composition and biological activities of extracts from ten species of the family Melastomataceae Juss
Authors: Bomfim E. M. S. , Coelho A. A. O. P. , Silva M. C. , Marques E. J. , Vale V. L. C.
Published: June 2021

Abstract Plants possess a renewable source of metabolites with enormous chemical structural diversity, which may have potential therapeutic relevance. Furthermore, this chemical diversity favors the possibility of finding new and different chemical constituents with antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-tumor activities. This work analyzed preliminary phytochemical profiles and evaluated the antimicrobial, antioxidant and cytotoxic activities of hexane extracts of leaves of ten species of the family Melastomataceae. Phytochemical screening was performed using staining methods while total phenols and flavonoids were quantified by spectrophotometry. Antimicrobial activity was evaluated using the disk diffusion method. Antioxidant activity was determined by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazil (DPPH) method. Toxicity was recorded using the lethality test with Artemia salina Leach (1819). Cytotoxic activity of the extracts was assessed in vitro with acute monocytic leukemia cells (THP-1). Phytochemical analysis detected the presence of tannins, terpenes, steroids, polyphenols and flavonoids and the absence of alkaloids. Clidemia capitellata (Bonpl.) D. Don had the greatest amount of polyphenols (205.95 mg/g ± 4.14) while Clidemia hirta (L.) D. Don had the highest content of total flavonoids (143.99 mg/g ± 4.18). The hexane extracts did not show antimicrobial activity nor toxicity against Artemia salina. The extract of Tibouchina francavillana Cogn. was the most active in sequestering the DPPH radical. The extracts showed cytotoxicity in THP-1 cells with the appearance of apoptotic bodies and cell death. The extracts of Miconia amoena, Clidemia sericea and Clidemia capitellata are non-toxic against Artemia salina and induce the formation of apoptotic bodies and cell death of the THP-1 lineage.
Growth regulators and their reflection on different hop genotypes cultivated under in vitro conditions
Authors: de-Souza R. , Adams C. R. , de-Melo R. C. , Guidolin A. F. , Michel A. , Coimbra J. L. M.
Published: June 2021

Abstract Hops is a new culture in Brazil. Tissue culture can be an important technique for rapid hop propagation. This paper aims to characterize responses from different genotypes under different growth regulators through the interrelationship of response variables important to hop in vitro growth. Three genotypes were cultivated in six culture media with different combinations of growth regulators, BAP (6-benzylaminopurine), IAA (3-indolacetic acid) and GA3 (gibberellic acid). The means were compared by orthogonal contrasts and the interrelationship of the response variables was performed by path analysis. American genotypes showed favorable root development under the BAP + IAA combination, while the use of IAA improved shoot development. The origin of genotypes was important for defining the best protocol for in vitro cultivation. The path coefficient showed that the variable number of shoots has stronger direct effect on the number of nodal segments. Additionally, in tissue culture assays, the use of a covariable and proper error distribution significantly increased experimental accuracy.
Effect of calcium on Pseudomonas aeruginasa and Bacillus cereus metabolites
Authors: Keskin Z. B. , Kahraman H.
Published: June 2021

Abstract The effects of Calcium (Ca+2) on virulence and some parameters should be analyzed in this study. Pseudomonas aeruginosa Gram (-) and Bacillus cereus Gram (+) were used. Both bacteria are soil bacteria. In this study; the effect of Ca+2 on protease, amylase, LasB elastolytic assay, H2O2, pyorubin and biofilm on metabolites of these bacteria were investigated during 24 hour time. In this study, the effect of Ca+2 on the production of some secondary metabolites on P. aeruginosa and B. cereus was investigated and presented for the first time by us.
Monitoring post-release behavioural activity of captive-bred urial (Ovis vignei punjabiensis) at Togh Managara Safari Park Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
Authors: Khattak R. H. , Zhensheng L. , Liwei T. , Pairah P. , Zhirong Z. , Roberts N. J.
Published: June 2021

Abstract The Punjab urial (Ovis vignei punjabiensis) is a globally threatened wild sheep species. In Pakistan the species is legally protected and bred in captivity to release into natural habitats to reinforce wild populations. Vigilance and feeding are critical to survival, though the degree to which captive-bred animals exhibit these behaviours post-release has rarely been investigated. We monitored the daily behaviours of five adult urial after release and classifying behaviours from 0600 hrs to 1800 hrs, replicating each one-hour period twice and recording four observations of each animal per hour. At the herd level, vigilance and feeding behaviours were exhibited equally. Males and females invested equal time in feeding, males were more vigilant (p = 0.001) and more aggressive (p = 0.010), and females were more restful (p = 0.019) or engaged in grooming (p = 0.044) or locomotion (p = 0.002). Females spent more time feeding than being vigilant (p = 0.002). Males maintained high levels of vigilance throughout the day. Patterns of resting 1300 hrs to 1500 hrs and feeding in early morning and late afternoon were common for both sexes. Behaviours classified as ‘other’ were exhibited equally between sexes. Our results reveal positive indications of captive-bred urial balancing threat detection and energy acquisition post-release and exhibiting natural behaviours and activity patterns. We encourage assessment of survivorship to evaluate long-term effectiveness of captive breeding and release as a candidate restoration programme.