bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Chronic low back pain changes in trunk controls of gait
Authors: Nishi Yuki , Shigetoh Hayato , Fujii Ren , Osumi Michihiro , Morioka Shu 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
This study investigated the impact of environment in trunk controls of gait among individuals with CLBP. CLBP patients (n=20) and healthy controls (HC) with no LBP history (n=20) attached an accelerometer to the low back and performed gait in laboratory and daily-living settings. We calculated stride-to-stride standard deviation (SD) and multiscale sample entropy (MSE) as “gait variability” in both the anterior-posterior (AP) and medial-lateral (ML) directions. In repeated-measures ANOVA, SD was affected by environment in the AP direction and by group and environment in the ML direction. MSE showed no effect in the AP direction and both effects in the ML direction. These change of trunk motor control by LBP have a relation to pain intensity, fear of movement and/or RMDQ in the daily-living but not laboratory settings. Evaluation of adaptation to environment in CLBP will enhance our understanding of changes in sensory-motor control and contribute to optimal management of such patients.
Pelletization of Biomass Feedstocks: Effect of Moisture Content, Particle Size and a Binder on Characteristics of Biomass Pellets
Authors: Ahmed Imran , Ali Asif , Ali Babar , Hassan Mahdi , Hussain Sakhawat , Hashmi Hammad , Ali Zafar , Soomro Ahsanullah 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Pelletization of low value added biomass materials such as furfural residue (FR) and sawdust was performed by using a lab scale pelletizer. Effects of moisture content (MC), particle size and a binder on quality parameters (e.g. pellet density, strength and hardness) and on energy consumption were investigated. Quality of pellets was analysed and compared. MC was found to be the more dominant parameter affecting pellet density, strength and hardness of furfural residue pellets (FRPs) and sawdust pellets (SPs), followed by particle size and a binder. Highest particle density of 1.419 g/cm3 for FRPs (0.5–1.41 mm) and 1.243 g/cm3 for SPs (0.25–0.5 mm) was achieved at MC of 8% and 18%. Highest decrease in relaxed density was observed at MC of 13% for FRPs and 28% for SPs. True density of FRPs and SPs made from particles of 0.25–0.5 mm was found higher than 0.5–1.41 mm. The highest strength and hardness (6.29 MPa and 401.3 N/mm2) for FRPs was achieved at 5.5% MC and particles 0.25–0.5 mm. Optimum strength (6.03 MPa) and hardness (96.06 N/mm2) for SPs was obtained at 18% MC and particles 0.25–0.5 mm. The lowest energy consumption (16.16 J/g) for FRPs (0.25–0.5 mm) and 20.22 J/g for SPs (0.5–1.41 mm) was achieved at MC of 13% and 28%. Addition of binding agent to FR sawdust decreased energy consumption of FRPs and SPs. SPs quality was enhanced with the use of a binder. Heating value of FRPs were found higher than SPs.
Effects of dietary and health factors on nutritional status of children under pastoral settings in Borana, southern Ethiopia, August–October 2015
Authors: Megersa Bekele , Haile Abebe , Kitron Uriel 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background: Childhood undernourishment is a serious public health problem globally, and being responsible for higher mortalities in children and enormous health costs in sub-Saharan Africa. However, scarcity of data on the magnitude of malnutrition and underlying causes especially in the pastoral system limits the effectiveness of potential interventions. This study was intended to investigate the nutritional status and associated factors among children in Borana pastoral system, southern Ethiopia.Methods: A community based cross-sectional study, using multistage cluster sampling, was conducted from August to October 2015. Dietary diversity score (DDS), milk and meal frequencies, anthropometric measurements, and socio-economic variables were recorded for 538 children aged 6 – 59 months. Multivariable generalized linear model (GLM) with log link function was applied to ascertain determinants of malnutrition. The strength of association was assessed with prevalence ratio (PR). Results: Underweight, stunting, and wasting was prevalent in 28.3% (95% CI: 24.4, 32.1), 41.1% (95% CI: 36.7, 45.1), and 9.8% (95% CI: 7.3, 12.4) of the children, respectively. Children who consumed more diverse foods were at lower risk of being underweight (PR=0.72, 95%CL: 0.59–0.88), stunted (PR=0.80, 95%CL: 0.68–0.93) and wasted (PR=0.42, 95%CL: 0.27–0.66) compared to others. Intake of increased milk frequency was also associated with lower risk of underweight (PR=0.86, 95%CL: 0.76–0.97), stunting (PR=0.83, 95%CL: 0.75–0.91) and wasting (PR=0.73, 95%CL: 0.56–0.96). The risk of underweight (PR=1.02, 95%CL: 1.01–1.03) stunting (PR=1.01, 95%CL: 1.00–1.02), and wasting (PR=1.01, 95%CL: 1.00–1.04) was significantly increased with age whilst no difference was observed between boys and girls. Children who lived far away from health care facilities were 1.2 and 1.4 times more likely to be stunted and wasted than those residing nearby. Ownership of toilet and living close to market were associated with reduced stunting while illness was associated with increased risk of underweight. Conclusion: The high prevalence of stunting among pastoral children is a serious public health concern, and calls for urgent action. Association of nutritional status with dietary intake, health status, access to health services and toilet availability underlines the need for improved feeding practices, health care and sanitary conditions in the pastoral community.
Distance Visual Acuity Versus Near Visual Acuity in Amblyopia.
Authors: ahadi masoumeh , Ebrahimi Afsaneh , Ramin Shahrokh 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Purpose: To measure and compare distance and near visual acuity in amblyopic patients.Methods: This study was evaluated 167 patients with amblyopia between ages of 6 and 55 years. In all subjects, a comprehensive ophthalmic examination including visual acuity, refraction, slit lamp biomicroscopy, and funduscopy was performed. Distance visual acuity (DVA) was measured by Snellen chart at 4 m and near visual acuity (NVA) was measured by Snellen chart at 40 cm, and then DVA and NVA were compered and analyzed.Results:In our subjects, the mean distance and near visual acuity was 0.39± 0.30 log MAR and 0.30± 0.32 log MAR respectively. The mean NVA was 0.12±0.12 log MAR better than DVA and difference between them was statistically significant (P<0.001). In 40% of patients, there were no difference between DVA and NVA, and in 60% of them, NVA was 0.1 or more log MAR better than DVA. The difference between DVA and NVA was not significantly related with age (p=0.225), spherical equivalent (P=.820) and strabismus (P=.336) and type of amblyopia (P=.405). Although all of these subjects had subnormal DVA, but 43 subjects (26%) had normal NVA. In mild and moderate amblyopic groups, difference between DVA and NVA was 0.14±0.10 log MAR and 0.15±0.14 log MAR respectively, but in severe amblyopic group it was 0.03±0.08 log MAR. The difference between DVA and NVA showed a significant relation with severity of amblyopia (P<0.001). The difference between DVA and NVA was 0.16±0.11 log MAR in patients with history of amblyopia therapy and 0.07.± 0.11 log MAR in patients without treatment. This difference was statistically significant (P<0.001).Conclusion: Our results showed that near visual acuity in amblyopia especially in mild to moderate types was significantly better than distance visual acuity. More than 50% of subjects with mild amblyopia had normal near visual acuity. The difference between DVA and NVA showed no relation with age, spherical equivalent, strabismus, and type of amblyopia. Also, difference between the DVA and NVA in patients with history of amblyopia therapy was better than of it in non-treated subjects.
A Randomized, Parallel Control And Multicenter Clinical Trial of Evidence-Based Traditional Chinese Medicine Massage Treatment VS External Diclofenac Diethylamine Emulgel For The Treatment of Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Wenyue Wang , Yingpeng Xu , Quanmao Ding , Li-min Xie , De-zhi Wang , Yang Bai , Li-su Wang , Yu-bin Li , Zhi-jun Niu , Yan-xu Ma , Wu-zhong Chen , Li-qun Bai , Yang Liu , Li-kun Jin 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background: Both massage and topically administered NSAIDs are safe and effective treatment for knee osteoarthritis (KOA); however, different massage technique sects in China caused assessment difficulties for the treatment of KOA. In order to standardize massage techniques and procedures, we organized multi-disciplinary experts in China to acquire an evidence-based traditional Chinese medicine massage treatment of knee osteoarthritis. The purposes of this study are to evaluate the efficacy and safety of evidence-based traditional Chinese medicine massage treatment of KOA compared to External Diclofenac Diethylamine Emulgel.Methods and design: 300 participants diagnosed with KOA will be randomly divided into the experimental group, control group, and waiting list group in a ratio of 2:1. The participants will receive evidence-based traditional Chinese medicine massage 2 sessions per week for 10 weeks or External Diclofenac Diethylamine Emulgel 3-4 times per day for 10 weeks respectively. The MRI scans and X-ray will be performed at baseline and the end of the intervention period. The main evaluation index will include the Western Ontario and McMaster Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC). The secondary evaluation index will include：(1) WOMAC each dimension; (2) the PRO scale for knee osteoarthritis based on the concept of Traditional Chinese Medicine（Chinese scale for knee osteoarthritis, CSKO）; (3) MRI scan and X-ray evaluation.Discussion: The results of our study will help to evaluate efficacy and safety of evidence-based traditional Chinese medicine massage treatment of KOA compared with External Diclofenac Diethylamine Emulgel combined with clinical, X-ray and MRI changes. Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR1800014400. Registered on 10 January 2018.
A Decomposition and Dynamic Programming Aggregation Method for the Optimal Water Allocation of Reservoirs in Series
Authors: Gong Zhihao , Cheng Jilin , Cheng Haomiao , Gong Yi 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Research on water allocation of multiple reservoirs with the purpose of reducing water spills and improving the local runoff utilization is a matter of great concern in humid areas with uneven temporal and spatial distributions of water resources. An optimization model for a system of reservoirs in series is developed to minimize water shortages. Several constraints restrict the objective function, including available water, operation rules and water rights for replenishment of the reservoirs with water. The model features multiple dimensions with a single coupling constraint of the large-scale system. A decomposition and dynamic programming aggregation method (DDPA) is proposed; the subsystem models and the aggregation model are both solved with the classical one-dimensional dynamic programming. Compared with the conventional decomposition-coordination method, the proposed method is concise but reliable because it can directly use the results of subsystems to form the one-dimensional dynamic programming aggregation model, avoiding the iterative calculations according to the coordinating function. Compared with the meta-heuristic algorithms, the proposed method is more efficient because it is independent of any algorithm parameter. The proposed method may provide a new reference for solving similar multi-reservoir optimization models.
EdgeTrust - A Lightweight Data-centric Trust Management Approach for Green Internet of Edge Things
Authors: Awan Kamran Ahmad , Din Ikram Ud , Almogren Ahmad , Khattak Hasan Ali , Rodrigues Joel J.P.C. 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Internet of Things (IoT) is bringing revolution into today’s world where devices in our surroundings become smart and perform daily-life activities and operations with more precision. The architecture of IoT is heterogeneous as it provides autonomy to nodes that they can communicate among other nodes and can also exchange information at any period. Due to the heterogeneous environment, IoT faces numerous security and privacy challenges, and one of the most significant challenges is the identification of malicious and compromised nodes. In this article, we have proposed a Machine Learning-based trust management approach for edge nodes. The proposed approach is a lightweight process to evaluate trust because edge nodes cannot perform complex computations. To evaluate trust, the proposed mechanism utilizes the knowledge and experience component of trust where knowledge is further based on several parameters. To eliminate the triumphant execution of good and bad-mouthing attacks, the proposed approach utilizes edge clouds, i.e., local data centers, to collect recommendations to evaluate indirect and aggregated trust. The trustworthiness of nodes is ranked between a certain limit where only those that satisfy the threshold value can participate in the network. To validate the performance of a proposed approach we have performed an extensive simulation in comparison with the existing approaches and the result shows the effectiveness of the proposed approach against several potential attacks.
Design and Simulation of Physical Layer Security for Next Generation Intelligent Optical Networks
Authors: marudhai valarmathi , Prince Shanthi , Kumari Shayna 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
With the latest technological advancements and attractive features of next generation intelligent optical networks such as high bandwidth, low power consumption, and low transmission loss, etc., they have been considered as most viable solution to satisfy promptly growing bandwidth demands. However, main optical network components bring forth a set of security challenges and reliability issues, accompanied by new vulnerabilities within the network. This paper proposes a new design for an optical encryption and decryption method for enhancing optical network security using p-i-n photodiode which generates Pseudo Random Binary Sequence (PRBS) as a shot noise fluctuations and wavelength converter based design using Semiconductor Optical Amplifier (SOA) based XOR gate which utilizes Cross-Phase Modulation (XPM). The system performance based on Bit Error Rate (BER) and Q factor are analyzed at different data rates for different link lengths up to 100 km using OptiSystem. It is observed that error free transmission with a BER of 10-12 is achieved a data rate of 10Gbps for a link length of only 30 Km for the system with PIN photodiode’s shot noise being used for PRBS sequence generation. However, wavelength conversion based system enables transmission of signal at 10Gbps signal up to a link length of 90Km.
Performance Analysis of Vanets Routing Protocols
Authors: Harrabi Samira , Jaafar Ines Ben , Ghedira Khaled 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks (VANETs) are a particular class of Mobile Ad Hoc Networks (MANETs). The VANETs provide wireless communication among vehicles and vehicle-to-road-side units. Even though the VANETs are a specific type of MANETs, a highly dynamic topology is a main feature that differentiates them from other kinds of ad hoc networks. As a result, designing an efficient routing protocol is considered a challenge. The performance of vehicle-to-vehicle communication depends on how better the routing protocol takes in consideration the particularities of the VANETs. Swarm Intelligence (SI) is considered as a promising solution to optimize vehicular communication costs. In this paper, we explore the SI approach to deal with the routing problems in the VANETs. We also evaluate and compare two swarming agent-based protocols using numerous QoS parameters, namely the average end-to-end delay and the ratio packet loss which influence the performance of network communication.
Monitoring Passive Wireless Devices
Authors: Naor Zohar 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
This study suggests using a user-initiated detecting and data gathering from power-limited and even passive wireless devices, such as passive RFID tags, wireless sensor networks (WSNs), and Internet of Things (IoT) devices, that either power limitation or poor cellular coverage prevents them from communicating directly with wireless networks. While previous studies focused on sensors that continuously transmit their data, the focus of this study is on passive devices. The key idea is that instead of receiving the data transmitted by the sensor nodes, an external device (a reader), such as an unnamed aerial vehicle (UAV), or a smartphone is used to detect IoT devices and read the data stored in the sensor nodes, and then to deliver it to the cloud, in which it is stored and processed. While previous studies on UAV-aided data collection from WSNs focused on the UAV path planning, the focus of this study is on the rate at which the passive sensor nodes should be polled. That is, to find the minimal monitoring rate that still guarantees accurate and reliable data collection. The proposed scheme enables us to deploy wireless sensor networks over a large geographic area (e.g., for agricultural applications), in which the cellular coverage is very poor if any. Furthermore, the usage of initiated data collection can enable the deployment of passive WSNs. Thus, can significantly reduce both the operational cost, as well as the deployment cost, of the WSN.
Predictors of Fetal Macrosomia Among Women Delivering at a Tertiary Hospital in Tanzania: A Case Control Study
Authors: Ngadaya Emmanuel Imani , Rweyemamu Maria Angelica , Mwampagatwa Proffesor Ipyana Hudson , Lilungulu Athanase Gervase 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Purpose: The study aimed at assessing predictors of fetal macrosomia at Iringa Regional Referral hospital in Tanzania. It is currently challenging to predict fetal macrosomia before delivery which possess women to an increasing risk of sustaining adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. Methods: A case-control study design in which cases were women who delivered babies weighing ≥ 4000g while controls were those who delivered babies weighing 2500g to 3500g. Purposive sampling technique was employed to recruit both controls and cases. A total of 216 participants were included. This was an unmatched case control study. SPSS version 25 software program was used for data entry and analysis. Chi-squared test, P-value, unadjusted and adjusted logistic regression were used to determine statistical significant. Results: Predictors of fetal macrosomia at Iringa Regional Referral hospital were advanced gestation age (AOR=8.10, 95% CI 3.66-17.91, p=<0.0001) and diabetes mellitus during pregnancy (AOR =14.94, 95% CI 1.60 -39.91, p= 0.0178).Conclusion: Women with advanced gestation age and diabetes mellitus during pregnancy are at an increased risk of delivering a macrosomic baby. Assessing predictors of fetal macrosomia will enable early prediction and intervention of women with fetal macrosomia hence preventing further maternal and fetal adverse outcomes.
Transcriptomic Analysis of the Maize Mutant TC19 Identifies Genes Regulating the Development of Grain Size Through the IAA and BR Pathways
Authors: Zhang Yanrong , Jiao Fuchao , Li Jun , Pei Yuhe , Zhao Meiai , Song Xiyun , Guo Xinmei 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Backgrounds: Grain size is a key factor in crop yield that gradually develops after pollination. However, few studies have reported gene expression patterns in maize grain development using mutants. To investigate the developmental mechanisms of grain size, we analyzed a large-grain mutant, named TC19, at the morphological and transcriptome level at five stages corresponding to days after pollination (DAP).Results: After maturation, the grain length, width, and thickness in TC19 were greater than that in Chang 7-2 (control) and increased by 3.57%, 8.80%, and 3.88%, respectively. Further analysis showed that grain width in TC19 was lower than in Chang 7-2 at 7, 14, and 21 DAP, but greater than that in Chang 7-2 at 28 and 35 DAP, indicating that 21 to 28 DAP was the critical stage for kernel width development. For all five stages, the concentrations of indole-3-acetic acid and brassinosteroids were significantly higher in TC19 than in Chang 7-2. Gibberellin was higher at 7, 14, and 21 DAP, and cytokinin was higher at 21 and 35 DAP, in TC19 than in Chang 7-2. Through transcriptome analysis at 14, 21, and 28 DAP, we identified 2987, 2647, and 3209 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between TC19 and Chang 7-2. Gene Ontology analysis indicated that most of the grain size–related genes corresponded to three aspects, including cell components, molecular functions, and biological processes. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis showed that 77 DEGs were enriched in the plant hormone signal transduction pathway. We further analyzed several highly expressed candidate genes, including AO2, ARF3, and IAA15, which are involved in the synthesis of IAA; and DWF4 and XTH, which are involved in the synthesis of BR.Conclusions: Our results elucidated the mechanisms of grain size development at the grain-filling stage and have potential application in maize breeding.
Legitimacy and procedural justice: how might stratospheric aerosol injection function in the public interest?
Authors: Grasso Marco 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
The success of stratospheric aerosol injection (SAI) in limiting global heating requires the inclusion and maintenance of the political ideals of legitimacy and procedural justice. Without them, the prospects are slim that this institution can be developed and operated in the public interest in such a way that it will protect and promote social well-being by minimising climate-related harm. Long term legitimacy and procedural justice are crucial to several sensitive features of SAI. They relate to openness, inclusivity and independence, in dealing both with external issues of concern to stakeholders representing the general public and with internal issues concerning agents directly involved in SAI. This article begins by outlining notions of legitimacy and procedural justice, and the criteria appropriate for SAI. Then it investigates how the moral indications provided by the related standards might ensure that SAI is not distorted in such ways that it serves the selfish interests of private parties. Finally, the article outlines two governance recommendations for ensuring that legitimacy and procedural justice in SAI are achieved and maintained over time, so that it can work continuously in the public interest.
Larvicidal and Oviposition Activity of Against Vector Aedes Aegypti and Molecular Docking Studies of Metabolites from the Crude Extract of the Endophytic Fungus Aspergillus Sp. Isolated from Bertholletia Excelsa Humn. &amp; Bonpl.
Authors: Araújo Inana F. , Marinho Victor Hugo , Sena Iracirema S , Curti Jhone , Ramos Ryan S. , Ferreira Ricardo M.A , Souto Raimundo N. P. , Ferreira Irlon 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
This work showed the crude extract of the endophytic fungus Aspergillus sp, isolated from the almonds of Bertholletia excelsa Humn & Bonlp collected in the Brazilian Amazon, oviposition deterrent, and larvicidal activity of against Aedes aegypti. In the oviposition deterrence test was observed that females able to lay eggs preferred the control oviposition sites (46.6%), suggesting the extract also could repel the oviposition. Futhermore, the extract showed larvicidal activity with LC50 26.86 µg/mL at 24 hours and 18.75 µg/mL at 48 hours. Molecular docking studies were carried out to elucidate the mechanism of action of the compounds identified against the enzyme acetylcholinesterase. The compound Aspergillol B was a potent larvicide with potential for inhibition for the acetylcholinesterase enzyme (-7.74 Kcal/mol). These unprecedented results reported indicate that the secondary metabolites obtained from crude extract of Aspergillus sp. present useful biological potential against vectors of public health importance and antibiotic-resistant bacteria.