bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A large-scale task scheduling algorithm based on clustering and duplication
Authors: Huang Wengang , Shi Zhichen , Xiao Zheng , Chen Cen , Li Kenli
Published: April 2022

Aim: Our research aims to explore a fast and efficient scheduling algorithm. The purpose is to schedule large-scale tasks on a limited number of processors reasonably while improving resource utilization. Methods: This paper proposes a clustering and duplication-based method for large-scale task scheduling on a limited amount of processors. We cluster large-scale task to reduce the scale of the task in our method at first. Second, duplication-based task scheduling is carried out. Third, we optimize the local effect more precisely by deduplication in the last stage. Results: We compare our algorithm with the state-of-the-art algorithms in the article. The results demonstrate that our scheduling scheme obtains about 30% optimization compared to existing large-scale scheduling methods and runs roughly ten times faster than existing duplication-based algorithms when scheduling large-scale tasks to a limited number of processors as compared to similar algorithms. Conclusion: In this paper, we propose a task scheduling algorithm that can decrease the scheduling time of large- scale tasks on a limited number of processors and speed up the global execution time of the task. Further, we will study large-scale task scheduling on heterogeneous processor clusters. Keywords
Residual energy-based clustering in UAV-aided wireless sensor networks for surveillance and monitoring applications
Authors: Poudel Sabitri , Moh Sangman , Shen Jian
Published: April 2022

Aim: Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-aided wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are effectively used for surveillance, monitoring, and rescue applications in military and commercial domains. In UAV-aided WSNs (UWSNs), efficient data gathered from sensor nodes are desired to enhance network performance. However, communication between UAV and sensor nodes is challenging due to the high mobility of the UAV and a large number of sensor nodes. Clustering in UWSNs limits the number of sensor nodes communicating with the UAV, i.e., only the cluster head in a cluster can transmit the sensed data to the UAV, which reduces collision probability. Methods: In this paper, we propose a residual energy-based clustering algorithm for sensor-to-UAV communication in UWSNs. The cluster size and the number of sensor nodes in a cluster are determined on the basis of the residual energy of the sensor nodes. The performance of the proposed algorithm is evaluated by using the MATLAB simulator and then compared with that of the conventional clustering algorithm. Results: According to our extensive simulation results, the proposed clustering scheme significantly outperforms the conventional one in terms of network lifetime and data delivery ratio. Conclusion: Hence, through our studies and simulations, it can be assured that the network lifetime of UWSNs can be prolonged and the throughput of the network can also be elevated by controlling the early death of sensor nodes due to the uneven energy consumptions. We will come up with further analysis and validation of our work in the future.
Multi-level storage based auditing scheme for 5G and beyond defined edge computing
Authors: Wang Chen , Zhou Tianqi
Published: April 2022

Aim: Edge computing has become one of the most essential approaches for processing user-side data in the future, thanks to the portability of storage and computing devices. 5G and beyond defined edge computing has become one of the most urgently required technologies. However, there are still several issues that must be resolved. Edge computing's present storage structure is incapable of adapting to new and flexible application scenarios. Simultaneously, data stored on edge devices are more vulnerable to attacks, and the integrity of the data needs to be protected. Method: For 5G and beyond defined edge computing, a novel auditing scheme based on multi-level storage is proposed in this paper. To reduce the response time of data queries, we first present a storage system with neighborhood servers. Then, a scheme for third-party-assisted auditing is described. Users can audit their data using self-defined file names. Results: The scheme is secure and efficient, according to the security analysis and performance simulation. Our scheme cost less computation overhead than the compared related work. Conclusion: The result shows that the novel proposal is efficient for the application in 5G and beyond defined edge computing.
Aneksasi Rusia atas Krimea, Sanksi Uni Eropa, dan Penguatan Hubungan Strategis antara Rusia-Tiongkok
Authors: Muhammad Ali , Athifi Muhammad F.
Published: April 2022

Artikel ini menjelaskan mengenai dampak sanksi Uni Eropa terhadap Rusia  setelah tindakan aneksasi Krimea pada tahun 2014. Uni Eropa dan Amerika Serikat mengutuk tindakan ilegal tersebut dan mencoba menekan Rusia untuk meninggalkan Krimea dan memenuhi semua tuntutan tanpa syarat. Sanksi tersebut termasuk larangan penyediaan teknologi untuk eksplorasi minyak dan gas, larangan pemberian kredit kepada perusahaan minyak Rusia dan bank-bank negara, serta pembatasan perjalanan terhadap warga Rusia berpengaruh yang dekat dengan Presiden Putin dan terlibat dalam pencaplokan Krimea. Apa konsekuensi sanksi Barat terhadap Hubungan Internasional Rusia? Dengan menggunakan metode penelitian kualitatif dan didukung oleh data sekunder dari buku, jurnal serta berbagai data valid dari internet, artikel ini menunjukkan bahwa sanksi tersebut sangat memukul perekonomian Rusia. Namun, artikel ini menunjukkan bahwa alih-alih melemahkan kekuatan Rusia, sanksi Barat justru memperkuat posisi strategis Rusia. Sanksi tersebut. Kondisi tersebut justru memperkuat hubungan ekonomi dan militer Rusia dengan Republik Rakyat Tiongkok. Rusia dan Tiongkok adalah kekuatan besar dalam politik dunia kontemporer. Penguatan hubungan strategis antara dua kekuatan  besar tersebut memiliki dampak strategis terhadap politik dunia dewasa ini.

Kata kunci:  Krimea, great power, Rusia, sanksi, Tiongkok
The enrichment of silver ions in Ag3PO4 through the morphology changes and their photocatalytic activities
Authors: Sulaeman Uyi , Afifah Khusnul , Diastuti Hartiwi , Yin Shu
Published: April 2022

The Ag3PO4 photocatalyst has been developed to degrade the organic pollutant due to its highly active responsive under visible light irradiation. The properties of Ag3PO4 may depend on design and preparation. Starting materials and co-precipitation conditions would significantly affect the properties of the product. The controlled defect of this photocatalyst may lead to improve catalytic activity. Here, the unique properties of phosphate deficiency in Ag3PO4 were created using the starting material of KH2PO4 and AgNO3 under a mixed solvent of water and ethanol. AgNO3 solution with the ethanol percentages of 0%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 90% was added to KH2PO4 aqueous solution.  The photocatalysts were characterized using XRD, DRS, SEM, and XPS. The changes in morphology can be observed from the tetrahedral to the sphere which has smaller particles.  The increased atomic ratio of Ag/P and Ag/O suggests that the silver ion enrichment in Ag3PO4 has been created. The activity of Ag3PO4 for Rhodamine B elimination increased by 4.3 times higher compared to that of the pristine Ag3PO4. The enhanced photocatalytic activity might be caused by the smaller particle size and higher silver ion content on the surface of Ag3PO4.
Migration, Dignity, Fragility, and Pandemics
Authors: Nakayama Mikiyasu , McClain Shanna N. , Fujikura Ryo , Sasaki Daisuke
Published: April 2022

Migration is dynamic and varies greatly across the globe due to myriad factors, including demography, economy, geography, and environment. As people move, a number of challenges exist that can leave human rights and human dignity as an afterthought to the migration process. This special issue provides a legal and policy framework for supporting “migration with dignity,” providing examples of how to apply this framework across a number of contexts, including climate change, the migration cycle, and pandemics.

COVID-19 has drastically changed mobility and migration in key spheres, such as transportation, travel, construction, and hospitality. Our research for this special issue was conducted between 2020 and 2021; therefore, we had the opportunity to witness a once-in-a-century global pandemic with direct impacts on migration inflows and outflows. Consequently, we have included pandemics as a key theme for consideration in this issue, believing that the research agenda should be informed by the assessment of impacts in both the atoll countries and in the United States – the most common “destination” of Pacific Islanders. This additional research revealed the vulnerabilities of migrants in the destination countries and in their home countries, vulnerabilities that would not otherwise have been apparent.

Our research was also directly impacted by the pandemic. We intended to conduct field research in countries such as the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI), the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), and the Republic of Maldives, with the RMI and FSM serving as countries of “origin” for migration to the United States. In the Maldives, there is a large domestic migration from the atolls to the newly constructed man-made islands. We experienced research and travel limitations due to COVID-19, where many countries have adopted strict isolation policies to prevent the spread of disease. Therefore, we had to conduct our surveys remotely using the Internet or by asking collaborators living in the area to conduct surveys on our behalf.

Our special issue also touches on the issue of the intergenerationality of immigrants in terms of how migrants adapt or assimilate into the receiving society, and how the mass media plays a role in the perceptions of migrants and the perceived problems associated with immigration by host countries. Many opportunities remain for further exploration and research, including how migration has changed in the post-pandemic world. We intend to pursue these opportunities in 2022 and beyond.
Migration with Dignity: A Legal and Policy Framework
Authors: McClain Shanna N. , Bruch Carl , Daly Erin , May James , Hamada Yuko , Maekawa Miko , Shiiba Nagisa , Nakayama Mikiyasu , Tsiokanou Glykeria ,   Environmental Law Institute 1730 M Street NW, Suite 700, Washington, D.C. 20036, USA,   Delaware Law School, Wilmington, USA,   SJ Quinney College of Law, Salt Lake City, USA,   International Organization for Migration, Washington, D.C., USA,   Sasakawa Peace Foundation, Tokyo, Japan,   Institute for Global Environmental Strategies, Tokyo, Japan,   Global Infrastructure Research Foundation, Tokyo, Japan
Published: April 2022

This article presents a legal and policy framework for Migration with Dignity. As the scale of internal and international migration continues to grow, rhetoric around migration has been increasingly politicized and intended to fuel feelings of xenophobia. The way migration is framed has a substantial impact on both how migrants are able to cope and manage their untenable situation, and how adaptive policy options are developed for facilitating the migration and transition of individuals. In recent years, a noticeable trend has emerged with courts employing human dignity arguments in cases involving fundamental human rights, including rights to equal protection. Dignity is built upon the premise that every human being has intrinsic and equal worth and value. Therefore, the Migration with Dignity framework offers an opportunity to focus on the challenges experienced by individuals and provide policy and legal options to governments, policy makers, and NGOs for how to better improve the transition of migrants into new settings and foster opportunities for improved livelihoods.
Alternatives for the Marshall Islands to Cope with the Anticipated Sea Level Rise by Climate Change
Authors: Nakayama Mikiyasu , Fujikura Ryo , Okuda Rie , Fujii Mai , Takashima Ryuta , Murakawa Tomoya , Sakai Erika , Iwama Hiroaki ,   Global Infrastructure Fund Research Foundation Japan Roppongi T-Cube 14F, 3-1-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-0032, Japan,   Faculty of Sustainability Studies, Hosei University, Tokyo, Japan,   Graduate School of International Cooperation Studies, Kobe University, Hyogo, Japan,   The Ocean Policy Research Institute, The Sasakawa Peace Foundation, Tokyo, Japan,   Department of Industrial Administration, Tokyo University of Science, Chiba, Japan
Published: April 2022

There are four atoll states in the world: The Republic of Kiribati, the Maldives, the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI), and Tuvalu. These countries are comprised entirely of low-lying land approximately 2 m above sea level. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has recognized that atoll countries are highly vulnerable to rising sea levels due to climate change. This study aimed to clarify the relative advantages and disadvantages of possible alternatives compared to the present livelihoods of the Marshallese in their home country. We also attempted to identify the best plausible option, using few sets of possible value judgements over the evaluation criteria. The following four alternatives were examined in this study: (i) migration to the developed world, (ii) migration to other island states, (iii) land reclamation and raising, and (iv) development of floating platforms. To evaluate the performance of the four alternatives, we selected 16 criteria representing the societal conditions that would result from each alternative. The performance of each alternative per criterion was rated from 1 to 5 by a literature survey, interviews with researchers who worked on the livelihood of Marshallese immigrants in the U.S. states of Arkansas, Hawaii, and Oregon, and interviews with people knowledgeable about the behavior of the Marshallese both in their home country and in the United States as immigrants. The “migration to the developed world” alternative proved the best choice, followed by “developing floating platforms,” “land reclamation and raising,” and “migration to other island states.” We also found that “migration to the developed world” offered the most change to immigrants, while the alternative of “land reclamation and raising” resulted in the smallest change. The magnitude of anticipated change should be considered. We employed the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to experimentally evaluate four alternatives in an integrated manner and about three cases were “all the criteria are equally important,” “social environment is more important,” and “personal environment is more important.” With AHP, the “migration to the developed world” alternative yielded the highest point for all three cases examined. Notably, climate migrants do not suddenly emerge, because climate change is a slow-onset process. The Marshallese should make wise use of the available lead time to prepare for migration in the future.
Evacuees Preferred to Continue Living in Relocation Sites Rather than Return: Misunderstanding of the Government and Media About the True Intentions of Evacuees
Authors: Fujikura Ryo , Maekawa Miko , Nakayama Mikiyasu , Sasaki Daisuke ,   Faculty of Sustainability Studies, Hosei University  2-17-1 Fujimi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 102-8160, Japan,   Ocean Policy Research Institute, Sasakawa Peace Foundation, Tokyo, Japan,   Global Infrastructure Fund Research Foundation Japan, Tokyo, Japan,   International Research Institute of Disaster Science (IRIDeS), Tohoku University, Miyagi, Japan
Published: April 2022

The Indian Ocean tsunami in 2004 induced massive temporary relocation of the people in the Maldives, from the small atolls they lived in to nearby larger atolls. Once they were permitted to return home, some evacuees proved reluctant to leave temporary housing due to a better livelihood. On the occasion of the accident at the nuclear power plant caused by the tsunami brought by the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, all the residents of Hirono Town in Fukushima Prefecture, Japan, were forced to evacuate over a long period. Many of them lived in temporary housing built in Iwaki City in the same prefecture. Some of the evacuees, as was the case in the Maldives, showed reluctance to return home, on the ground that livelihood in the temporary housing was both convenient and enjoyable. It was a surprise for national and local governments because they assumed that those in temporary housing were uncomfortable and that the evacuees were keen to leave to return home. Differences in information existed between the evacuees and the government. This study aims to determine why such a disparity emerged and was left unrevealed. It also tries to reveal what the observed differences led to after the evacuees returned home. Furthermore, it examines the impact of mass media on the minds of the general public. It finds that the evacuees’ minds changed over time as they initially found themselves away from home, living in temporary housing and unhappy. Mass media conveyed unupdated and confusing messages to society, as if evacuees were actually unhappy. Society thus tended to regard the displaced as unhappy forever, while the evacuees found their livelihood in temporary housing comfortable or even enjoyable to the extent that some decided not to return home by becoming residents of Iwaki City. Society should be aware that evacuees’ idea and behavior may drastically change over time – even beyond their imagination.
COVID-19 and Discrimination Experiences in the Marshallese Communities of Springdale, Arkansas
Authors: Stern Rachel N. , Laelan Melisa ,   Environmental Law Institute  1730 M Street, NW Suite 700, Washington, D.C. 20036, USA,   Arkansas Coalition of Marshallese, Arkansas, USA
Published: April 2022

This research uses a “migration with dignity” framework to look at the twin impacts of COVID-19 and discrimination on the Marshallese community in Springdale, Arkansas. Specifically, it focuses on the ways in which rights to non-discrimination, to basic quality of life, and to access services, especially healthcare, have not been adequately upheld. As the research was conducted in partnership with the Arkansas Coalition of Marshallese (ACOM), the paper also aims to examine some of the community-based work that has been addressing these issues. The research, based on interviews and desk research, found that almost all Marshallese community members interviewed expressed that they had not felt safe from COVID-19 and it had significantly impacted their lives. Many expressed that existing issues with limited access to healthcare or perceived discrimination in the healthcare system had been exacerbated by COVID-19. In particular, factors such as lack of translation of unemployment and COVID-19 documents into the Marshallese language, lack of paid sick leave, and multigenerational housing, all exacerbated the effects of the pandemic on Marshallese community members. General racial or cultural discrimination was an issue expressed by about half of the respondents, who shared varying stories of discrimination occurring in workplace and school settings, but almost none expressed fear over personal safety in Springdale. Community organizations and structures, specifically health clinics, community vaccine drives, and a community food pantry, were all mentioned as ways that the Marshallese community upheld rights to non-discrimination, basic quality of life, and right to access services.
Migration in the Midst of a Pandemic: A Case Study of Pacific Islanders in Oregon
Authors: Drinkall Scott , Leung Jackie , Micky Kapiolani ,   Schar School of Policy and Government, George Mason University 3351 Fairfax Drive Van Metre Hall, Arlington, Virginia 22201, USA,   Micronesian Islander Community, Oregon, USA
Published: April 2022

The Pacific Islander population in the United States continues to grow due to outmigration and a unique immigration arrangement. Under the Compacts of Free Association (COFA), citizens from three Remote Oceania countries can travel to the United States to live and work without restriction. Given the special status of COFA migrants, there is a growing interest among policymakers and researchers to better understand this population, which has often been overlooked. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic has recently spotlighted this community due to their exceedingly high rates of infection, hospitalization, and morbidity. This study examines how migration is experienced during a pandemic via a case study of first-generation Micronesians living in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, one of the largest Micronesian communities in the United States. Interviews reveal how social determinants of health – such as economic stability, non-discrimination and equal treatment, access to healthcare, employment, and housing – may contribute to unequal health outcomes between Pacific Islander immigrants and other racial and ethnic populations. These determinants also contribute to human dignity. Using the emergent Migration with Dignity framework, this study assesses how the pandemic has challenged the six dimensions of dignity and disrupted the migration experience, including the push-pull factors for deciding to emigrate to and stay in the United States. Finally, the study assesses resources available for COFA citizens and avenues for improved support.
The Effect of Incorporation of Embankment Information for Flood Simulation of the Gin River, Sri Lanka
Authors: Jayapadma J. M. M. U. , Souma Kazuyoshi , Ishidaira Hiroshi , Magome Jun , Wickramaarachchi T. N. ,   Special Educational Program on River Basin Environmental Science, Integrated Graduate School of Medicine, Engineering, and Agricultural Sciences, University of Yamanashi 4-3-11 Takeda, Kofu, Yamanashi 400-8511, Japan,   Interdisciplinary Centre for River Basin Environment, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan,   Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Ruhuna, Galle, Sri Lanka
Published: April 2022

As flooding is inevitable and becoming increasingly frequent, efficient flood management strategies should be developed to manage floods, especially in developing countries. Rainfall-Runoff-Inundation (RRI) model, which is based on a diffusive wave model, was applied to Gin River Basin, Sri Lanka using daily rainfall data. The RRI model was calibrated and validated for three past flood events (2003, 2016, and 2017) based on observed discharge data and inundation maps developed from ground survey data and satellite images. The Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE) values for river discharge obtained at the downstream gauging station were greater than 0.7 during both the calibration and validation experiments. Simulated inundation data showed good agreement with the limited observational records. The Critical Success Index (CSI) value for inundated extent in large flood event (May 2017) within downstream was greater than 0.3. Incorporation of embankment information significantly improved the accuracy of the simulation of inundation extent during large flood events (May 2017). The CSI value without embankment information for large flood event (May 2017) within downstream decreased to around 0.1. On the other hand, the embankment information was less useful for smaller flood events caused by less extreme rainfall. Inclusion of embankment information for large flood events enhanced the model performance, thus ensuring the availability of accurate inundation information for efficient flood risk planning and management in the basin.
Calculating the Coverage Rate of a Transportation-Based Flood Warning Dissemination System in Brisbane
Authors: Nishino Akihiko ,   Keio University Collaboration Complex, 4-1-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 223-8526, Japan, Kodaka Akira , Nakajima Madoka , Kohtake Naohiko
Published: April 2022

There is a growing need to introduce warning dissemination systems in disaster-prone regions to improve the coverage of information distribution. In this study, a warning dissemination system was designed in which disaster information transmitted by a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) is received by terrestrial infrastructure, such as sirens and public transportation, converted into audio messages, and delivered automatically. The originality of the designed system lies in its appropriate integration of existing satellite systems and terrestrial infrastructure, making the system potentially applicable in many regions. First, we evaluated the effectiveness of the designed system in distributing audio messages using public buses in Brisbane, Australia, where large floods occur frequently. Real-time location information for public buses was acquired in the format of General Transit Feed Specification (GTFS), which is currently used in many countries. Time-series changes in the coverage rate relative to both the flood inundation zone and population were calculated using a geographic information system (GIS). The simulation results showed that the system could reach 60% of the flood inundation zone and 70% of the population on a holiday, indicating that the designed system could be effectively adapted to the target area. The coverage rate was found to peak during 15:00–16:00, with minimum rates observed late at night and early in the morning. These results will allow the development of an effective disaster management plan. In the future, this system will be evaluated in other regions using the same calculation process.
A Statistical Shape Model-Based Analysis of Periacetabular Osteotomies
Authors: Kriechling Philipp , Leoty Laura , Fürnstahl Philipp , Rahbani Dana , Zingg Patrick O. , Vlachopoulos Lazaros
Published: April 2022

Background:

Classic and reverse Bernese periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) have been shown to be effective for the treatment of developmental dysplasia of the hip (by classic PAO), severe acetabular retroversion (by reverse PAO), and some protrusio acetabuli (by reverse PAO). Especially in severe cases with higher degrees of correction, a relevant overlap between the osteotomized fragment and the pelvis might occur, leading to necessary fragment translation. The aim of the present study was to analyze the necessary translation as a function of the degree of correction using a statistical mean model of the pelvis according to the technique (classic PAO or reverse PAO).

Methods:

A mean statistical shape model of the pelvis and 2 extreme models were used to simulate rotation of the osteotomized fragment during a classic or reverse PAO and to calculate rotations from −20° to 20° in the frontal, sagittal, and transverse planes and a combination thereof. The depth and volume of the intersection between the mobilized fragment and the pelvis were calculated, and the minimum translation of the fragment necessary to avoid segment overlap was determined.

Results:

The maximum intersection distances between the pelvis and the 20° rotated fragment were 6.7 and 15.3 mm for adduction and abduction (frontal plane), 6.4 and 4.5 mm for internal and external rotation (transverse plane), and 27.8 and 9.2 mm for extension and flexion (sagittal plane). The necessary translations for 20° of fragment rotation were 7.0 and 12.8 mm for adduction and abduction (frontal plane), 4.8 and 5.0 mm for internal and external rotation (transverse plane), and 18.5 mm and 8.8 mm for extension and flexion (sagittal plane).

Conclusions:

Acetabular reorientation with the classic or reverse PAO results in translation of the fragment and in a consequent change in the rotational center. This finding is more pronounced with higher degrees of fragment reorientation in abduction and extension; it becomes especially pronounced in reverse PAO for acetabular retroversion or protrusio acetabuli, and might limit the ability to achieve the intended improvement in overall hip biomechanics.
El odontólogo y la comunidad escolar
Authors: Perona Miguel de Priego Guido Alberto
Published: April 2022

El sábado 5 de marzo del presente año, el diario oficial El Peruano publicó la Ley N.o 31431, Ley que Incorpora al Profesional Odontólogo en la Comunidad Educativa. Esta norma, en su Artículo 1. Objeto de la presente ley, señala que “La presenteley tiene por objeto incorporar al profesional odontólogo como miembro integrante de la Comunidad Educativa establecida en la Ley 28044, Ley General de Educación, con el fin de contribuir en la promoción de la higiene y salud bucal para la prevención de enfermedades bucodentales” (1).
Actividad inhibitoria del extracto etanólico del Cyperus Rotundus procedente de la región de Cajamarca (provincia de Contumazá) en una cepa estandarizada de Streptococcus mutans (ATCC®25175)
Authors: Bazán Aliaga Rosita Belén , Reátegui Arévalo Óscar , Solórzano Espinoza Luz Verónica , Castro Arredondo Juan Antonio , Miranda García Víctor Elmo , Martínez Cadillo Elba Estefanía , Quispe-Salcedo Angela
Published: April 2022

Objetivo: Determinar in vitro la actividad inhibitoria del extracto etanólico del Cyperus rotundus (Contumazá, Cajamarca) frente a una cepa estandarizada de Streptococcus mutans (ATCC®25175TM). Materiales y métodos: El presente estudio fue de tipo experimental in vitro, el cual consistió en determinar el efecto inhibitorio de tres concentraciones del extracto etanólico de Cyperus rotundus: 250 mg/ml, 500 mg/ml y 1000 mg/ml frente a Streptococcus mutans (ATCC®25175TM). Se realizaron 10 pruebas para cada concentración del extracto, y se tuvo como control positivo la clorhexidina al 0,12% y como control negativo, al DMSO al 10%. Para evaluar el efecto inhibitorio, se utilizó el método de difusión en discos o prueba de Kirby-Bauer, y se realizó la lectura de las placas de cultivo a las 48 horas posteriores a la siembra. Resultados: Ninguna de las tres concentraciones del extracto etanólico de Cyperus rotundus presentó efecto inhibitorio para la cepa de Streptococcus mutans; sin embargo, tras el control positivo, la clorhexidina presentó halos de inhibición de 14,43 mm ± 1,23 mm, a las 48 horas de incubación. Conclusiones: Se determinó que el extracto etanólico del Cyperus rotundus no es capaz de inhibir el crecimiento de Streptococcus mutans. Se recomienda profundizar en el análisis químico de los componentes de esta planta y explorar otros metodos de extracción para verificar su acción bacteriostática en otros microorganismos orales y no orales.
Frecuencia y caracterización de la automedicación ante manifestaciones dentales en pacientes que acudieron a　clínicas privadas en Lima en el año 2021
Authors: Arriarán Cisneros Aristides , Becerra Bravo Melissa , Ruiz Ramirez Eliberto
Published: April 2022

Introducción: La automedicación es la práctica de usar fármacos que no han sido recetados por un profesional de la salud, lo que muchas veces, en vez de ayudar, agrava la salud del paciente. El dolor dental es el principal motivo para la realización de este acto en el área de la odontología. Es importante conocer si los pacientes se automedican para desarrollar estrategias para reducir el mal uso de medicamentos y evitar esta práctica. Objetivo: Determinar la frecuencia y la caracterización de la automedicación en los pacientes que acudan a las tres clínicas odontológicas privadas entre los meses de marzo a julio del 2021. Materiales y métodos: Estudio observacional de tipo transversal cuya muestra fue de 450 pacientes de tres clínicas odontológicas de la ciudad de Lima. El instrumento de evaluación fue un cuestionario de 13 preguntas sobre las principales características de la automedicación. Resultados: El 85,8% de los pacientes consumen medicamentos sin prescripción médica. El 41,5% de los pacientes se automedicaron por prescripciones antiguas realizadas por un odontólogo. El grupo etario que más se automedicó fue el de 26 a 35 años, con un 35,5%. El tipo de dolencia más frecuente fue el dolor dental, con un 45,6%. El grado de instrucción con mayor porcentaje fue el superior universitario completo, con un 32,9%. Conclusiones: La frecuencia de  automedicación de los pacientes que acudieron a los tres centros dentales es considerablemente alta.
Ultra-dense hydrogen in small pore hydridic framework
Authors: Oh Hyunchul , Tumanov Nikolay , Ban Voraksmy , Li Xiao , Richter Bo , Hudson Matthew , Brown Craig , Iles Gail , Daemen Luke , Wallacher Dirk , Balderas-Xicohtencatl Rafael , Ramirez-Cuesta Anibal , Cheng Yongqiang , Heere Michael , Hirscher Michael , Jensen Torben , Filinchuk Yaroslav
Published: April 2022

Nanoporous materials have attracted great attention for gas storage, however, high volumetric storage capacity remains still a challenge. Here we investigate a magnesium borohydride framework with small pores and a unique partially negatively-charged non-flat interior for hydrogen and nitrogen uptake using neutron powder diffraction, volumetric gas adsorption, and inelastic neutron scattering. Hydrogen and nitrogen occupy distinctly different adsorption sites in the pores with very different limiting capacities: 2.33 H2 and 0.66 N2 per Mg(BH4)2. Molecular hydrogen is packed extremely dense with about twice the density of liquid hydrogen (144 - 132 g H2/L of pore volume), independently measured by three experimental methods. This study reveals that densely packed hydrogen can be stabilized in small-pore materials at ambient pressures.
A Tale of Two City Parks: A Case Study of Mammalian Wildlife Impacts of Urbanization in Urban Green Spaces
Authors: Stokes David Lawrence , Samuelson Nathan N.
Published: April 2022

Urban green spaces (UGS) have the potential to play an increasingly important role in biodiversity conservation. To realize this potential, fine-scale, site-specific, and easily accessible understanding of UGS habitat value is needed, as planning and management of UGS occur primarily at local levels. This camera-trap case study compared mammalian wildlife in two large, Seattle-area UGS, St. Edward State Park (SESP) and Juanita Woodlands Park (JWP). The parks are ecologically similar, but differ in the principal dimensions of urbanization-related habitat impacts: habitat size, fragmentation, and matrix quality, with JWP more heavily urbanized than SESP. Equal sampling effort in two habitat types (riparian forest, 1157 camera-days; upland forest, 1094 camera days) documented greater native mammalian species richness and diversity in SESP in both habitats. Two species, flying squirrel and Townsend’s chipmunk, were detected only at SESP. Species occupancy patterns indicated that bobcat, Douglas squirrel and mountain beaver were more likely to be present in SESP, while raccoon, coyote, and black-tailed deer, as well as six non-native species, did not show consistent differences between parks. The predator community of SESP showed a higher overall level of activity, and differed from JWP in species’ relative prominence. These results show in a straightforward and accessible manner the critical importance of urbanization impacts in determining the capacity of UGS to support wildlife—particularly small species and “urban avoiders”—and the range of habitat value across large UGS as they exist in a metropolitan area. Species we found to be largely restricted to SESP may be tractable indicators of UGS habitat quality in the urbanized Pacific Northwest region, and SESP provides a possible example of a regional reference site for forested UGS habitat quality. Similar studies can produce analogous applied outcomes in urban settings elsewhere.
Evaluating the Value of Vegetation Ecosystem Services in District 16 of Tehran Municipality using the i-Tree Model
Authors: Vahidi Hossein , Mehrian Majid Ramezani , AliHosseini Azadeh , Jalayer Amin , EsfahaniZadeh Mohsen
Published: April 2022

Awareness of the structure, function, and value of vegetation and green space in cities can improve management decisions related to human health and the condition of the environment. In 2015, an assessment of the vegetation in the Tehran urban vegetation was done. The i-Tree Eco model was used to evaluate data from 36 field plots situated throughout District 16 of Tehran Municipality. This study assimilates the i-Tree Eco model to assess the value of vegetation ecosystem services in D16, one of the greenest areas. Based on public trees managed by the district municipality, eliminated about 67 tons of pollutants in one year. This pollution reduction includes about 5 tons of CO, 13 tons of NO2, 8 tons of O3, 35 tons of PM10, and 15 tons of SO2. Two factors, including tree cover and concentrations of air pollutions, significantly affect air pollution removal. Urban trees have a critical role in mitigating air pollution. However, the limitations and increasing sources of production of pollutants, especially air pollutants, are not the only key to this trouble. Therefore, it is advised to increase the per capita and principled maintenance of public urban green space, along with indicators such as environmental characteristics, adjacent urban structures, street design, climate, and the most important plant species compatible with the region.
Grain Production Space Reconstruction and Its Influencing Factors in the Loess Plateau
Authors: Qin zhangxuan , Liu Xiaolin , Lu Xiaoyan , Li Mengfei , Li Fei
Published: April 2022

Land systems can be classified spatially as grain production space, ecological service space and urban-rural development space. Grain production space reconstruction concentrates the principal contradictions in land system changes. Exploring the process, pathways and influencing factors of grain production space reconstruction can coordinate the trade-off/synergy among grain production, ecological protection and economic development. Therefore, the reconstruction characteristics of grain production space in the Loess Plateau were systematically analyzed in terms of quantity, quality, and spatial pattern in this study. Results showed that although the quantity of grain production space in the Loess Plateau declined, the quality improved between 1980 and 2018. The grain production space in the Loess Plateau was increasingly fragmented and scattered, with more regular shapes in 2018 than 1980. Moreover, the center of gravity of grain production space moved 8.32 kilometers to the northwest; it moved more significantly to the northwest when considering the quality of grain production space. The reconstruction of grain production space in quantity, quality and spatial pattern was mainly realized through the pathways of Grain for Green, Urban Expansion, Deforestation and Reclamation as well as Land Consolidation; and the pathways of Grain for Green after 2000 was the principal pathway for grain production space reconstruction. The four reconstruction pathways of grain production space in the Loess Plateau were the result of a combination of natural environment and socio-economic factors, but driving factors had different strengths and directions for each reconstruction pathway. This study offered a comprehensive understanding of grain production space reconstruction, and provided a new research perspective for coordinating grain production, ecological protection and high-quality economic development.
Visualizing Subsoil Structure for Evaluating the Efficiency of Mole Drain in Heavy Clay Soils Using Geo-electrical Methods
Authors: Aziz Akram , Attia Tamer , Hamed Yasser , Selim Tarek
Published: April 2022

Geo-electrical surveys have been conducted on three newly reclaimed farms located on the northeastern corner of the Nile Delta, Egypt. These farms always suffer from various soil salinization problems. The surveys include measuring the natural Spontaneous Potential (SP) of the soil, apparent Resistivity Gradient (RG), and Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT). The study aims to image the soil structure and evaluate the effectiveness of the traditional Mole Drainage (MD) systems that are customarily utilized to reduce soil salinity of the farms in this region. Integrating the results of the surveys conducted on the first farm shows that the subsurface heavy clay-bed is very close to the topsoil. This proximity reduces the role of the MD in draining the soil. On the second farm, the clay-bed did not reach the soil surface of the farm, and a significant reduction in soil salinity levels nearby the Mole drains was observed. However, the limited thickness of the root zone was not sufficient to plant deep-rooted vegetation. Repeating the ERT measurements on the third (barren) farm revealed a severe defect in the farm drainage network, where the slope of the clay-bed opposes the main direction of the surface drainage system of the farm. This has resulted in groundwater accumulation and a frequent occurrence of waterlogging.Eventually, the efficiency of any drainage network does not depend solely on its surface maintenance. It is important to figure out the subsurface conditions of the soil as well. The methods have proven to be effective and applicable tools in imaging soil subsurface conditions nondestructively, even in lands characterized by high clay content.
FaceMemNet: Predicting Face Memorability with Deep Neural Networks
Authors: Mohsenzadeh Yalda , Younesi Mohammad
Published: April 2022

With the advent of social media in our day to day life, we are exposed to plenty of images, especially face photographs, every day. Recent behavioural studies have shown that some of these photographs stick in the mind better than others. However, it is still unclear what factors make a picture more or less memorable. Previous research have shown that memorability is an intrinsic property of an image, hence the memorability of an image can be computed from that image. Moreover, various works found that the memorability of an image is highly consistent across people and also over time. Recently, researchers employed deep neural networks to predict image memorability. Here, we show although those models perform well on scene and object images, they perform poorly on photographs of human faces. We demonstrate and explain why generic memorability models do not result in an acceptable performance on face photographs and propose seven different models to estimate the memorability of face images. In addition, we show that these models outperform the previous classical methods, which were used for predicting face memorability.
Predicting Drug-Efficiency and Cancer Evolution Using an Automated Histological Classifification Based on Whole Slide Images
Authors: Pan Yating , Liao Xinyi , Ruan Xiang , Deng Yating , Du Fan , Yu Guanzhen , Wu Xiaojun
Published: April 2022

Liver disease is a general term for all diseases that occur in the liver, including cirrhosis, tumors, and drug-induced injury. Liver pathology reveals the pathological appearance of various common liver diseases. Automated classification of liver pathological features based on whole slide images can help observe disease processes and assess drug efficacy, and reduce scientific fraud. Using pathological slides of rat liver induced by the chemical carcinogen TAA, we developed a deep-learning framework to detect abnormal lesions in rat liver from whole histopathological slides. Our framework provides an objective and reproducible method to observe liver lesions and also calculates the proportion of lesions in each liver slide. The framework can also clearly delineate the edges of the liver, revealing whether there are uneven, jagged or wavy surfaces. This tool not only discloses the multi-level pathological evolution of cholangiocarcinoma, but also presents a visual image of the protective effect administered by H2. Artificial intelligence-based algorithms are highly promising methods for studying cancer evolution, assessing drug efficiency, and reducing scientific misconduct.
NLRX1 Ligand, Docosahexaenoic Acid, Ameliorates LPS-Induced Inflammatory Hyperalgesia by Decreasing TRAF6/IKK/IkB-a/NF-kB Signaling Pathway Activity
Authors: Yilmaz Dilsah Ezgi , Senol Sefika Pinar , Temiz-Resitoglu Meryem , Sahan-Firat Seyhan , Tunctan Bahar
Published: April 2022

Objective The nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor X1 (NLRX1) has been associated with various anti-inflammatory mechanisms. We investigated whether the NLRX1 ligand docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) ameliorates lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory hyperalgesia by interacting with tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6)/inhibitor of kB (IkB) kinase (IKK)/IkB-a/nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling pathway in the central nervous system. Methods Reaction time to thermal stimuli within 30 seconds was measured in male mice injected with saline, lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and/or DHA after 6 hours using the hot plate test. Co-immunoprecipitation and immunoblotting studies were performed to determine activation of the TRAF6/IKK/IkB-a/NF-kB pathway in the brains and spinal cords of LPS-treated animals. Results Latency to the thermal stimulus was reduced by 30% in LPS-injected endotoxemic mice compared with saline-injected mice. Treatment with DHA significantly improved latency compared with endotoxemic mice. In the brain and spinal cord of LPS-injected mice, treatment with DHA also prevented the increase in the expression and/or activity of (1) IKK/IKKβ, IKK, and K63 U in the NLRX1-immunoprecipitated tissues, (2) IKK/IKKβ, K63 U, and K48 U in the IKK-immunoprecipitated tissues, and (3) IkB-α, NF-kB p65, and interleukin-1β associated with decreased IkB-α expression. Conclusion Inhibition of IKK/IkB-a/NF-kB signaling by dissociation of NLRX1 from TRAF6 in response to LPS treatment may contribute to the protective effect of DHA against inflammatory hyperalgesia.
The COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on health service utilization among pregnant women in three Nigerian States: a mixed methods study
Authors: Orji Bright , Bryce Emily , Odio Bartholomew , Onuoha Herbert , Njoku Elizabeth , Anoke Charity , Ugwa Emmanuel , Enne Joseph , Oniyire Adetiloye , Ibrahim Idris , Otolorin Emmanuel , Afolabi Kayode , Ogbulafor Nnenna C. , Oliveras Elizabeth , Nwani Chinyere
Published: April 2022

BackgroundCOVID-19 disrupted health service delivery and weakened global and national health systems. The objective of this study was to describe the changes in health service utilization in three local government areas in three Nigerian states and examine factors involved.MethodsA cross-sectional mixed-methods approach was used to examine changes in service utilization during the first nine months of the COVID-19 pandemic and associated factors in three Nigerian states; Ebonyi, Niger and Ondo. A total of 315 pregnant women seen for antenatal care in 80 health facilities between October 1 and November 30, 2020, participated in exit interviews; 93 women participated in focus group discussions (FGDs). Descriptive analyses and a multivariable logistic analysis were conducted to examine associations between characteristics and decreased service utilization. Content analysis was used to identify the emerging themes for factors that impacted health service utilization during the pandemic.ResultsOne quarter of women surveyed reported that they reduced or ceased health service utilization during this initial period of the pandemic. The biggest reported changes in visits were for immunization (47% pre-pandemic versus 30% during the pandemic, p<0.001) and a small but statistically significant decline in antenatal care (99% to 94%, p<0.001) was observed.State of residence was significantly associated with reduced or ceased utilization during the pandemic (p<0.01); other sociodemographic characteristics were not. Qualitative findings show that lockdowns, transportation issues, increased costs and fear of contracting COVID-19 or being labeled as COVID-positive were the most common reasons mentioned for not seeking care during this period of the pandemic. Conclusions The pandemic from March to November 2020 negatively impacted health service utilization amongst pregnant women in Nigeria. A better understanding of differences in the pandemic and state response could help inform future actions. The FGDs findings highlight the need for health systems to consider how to facilitate service utilization during a pandemic, such as providing safe transport or increasing outreach, and to minimize stigma for those seeking care.