bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antidiarrheal Activity of Dialium guineense Willd Fruit Pulp in Wistar Rats
Authors: Assiki Tcharé , Diallo Aboudoulatif , Badjabaïssi Essotolom , Assih Mindédé , Kpatcha Tchazou , Idoh Kokou , Dosseh Kossivi , Agbonon Amegnona
Published: October 2022

Objective. This study is aimed at evaluating the effects of Dialium guineense Willd fruit pulp powder on diarrhea induced by castor oil in Wistar rats. Materials and Methods. Three different tests were carried out. A preventive test by administration of a single dose of 250, 500, 1000, 2000, and 4000 mg/kg before the induction of diarrhea by castor oil. Another preventive test after repeated administration of Dialium guineense at 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg/day for 8 days, before the induction of diarrhea, was done. The third test was a curative test with a single dose of 250, 500, 1000, and 2000 mg/kg after the induction of diarrhea by castor oil. Results. D. guineense fruit pulp at 1000, 2000, and 4000 mg/kg administered before the induction of diarrhea, has significantly delayed diarrhea; reduced the frequency of defecation, reduced the amount of diarrheal stools, and also reduced the purging index, with a degree of inhibition comparable to that of loperamide. But the water content of the stools of the group treated with D. guineense does not change significantly compared to the controls. D. guineense has reduced significantly from 500 mg/kg the diarrhea induced by castor oil after 8 days of treatment. It appears that the doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg, which were not effective with the single‐dose preventive test, significantly delayed diarrhea; reduces the frequency of diarrheal stools and also reduces the purging index. D. guineense administered, after the induction of diarrhea, by castor oil has significantly reduced the diarrhea from 250 mg/kg. Conclusion. The fruit pulp of D. guineense has showed antidiarrheal activities in Wistar rats by reducing the frequency of defecation, the amount of diarrheal fecal matter emitted as well as the water content. It also delayed the onset of diarrhea and significantly reduced the purging index like loperamide.
Teratogenic Evaluation of 80% Ethanol Extract of Embelia schimperi Vatke Fruits on Rat Embryo and Fetuses
Authors: Animaw Zelalem , Asres Kaleab , Tadesse Selamawit , Basha Hirut , Taye Samson , Abebe Abiy , Debebe Eyob , Seyoum Girma
Published: October 2022

Introduction. Embelia schimperi Vatke (family Myrsinaceae) is a commonly consumed anthelminthic plant in Ethiopia. The plant has significant efficacy in treating intestinal worms. However, there are limited data about the safety/toxicity of the plant. Moreover, the teratogenic effect of the plant is not yet well studied despite significant number of Ethiopian mothers consuming herbal medication during their pregnancy. Purpose. This study aimed to evaluate the teratogenic effect of the hydroalcoholic extract of E. schimperi fruit on rat embryos and fetuses. Methods. Pregnant albino Wistar rats were treated with 80% hydroalcoholic fruit extract of E. schimperi at 250 mg/kg, 500 mg/kg, and 1000 mg/kg dosage, whilst the controls were pair-fed and ad libitum groups. Maternal food intake, maternal weight gain, number of implantations, number of prior resorptions, fetal viability, fetal weight, fetal and embryonic crown-ramp length, placental weight, placental gross morphology and histopathology of placental tissue, number of somites, embryonic system, gross/visceral morphological malformations, and ossification centers were evaluated as teratogenicity indices. Results. The crude extract of E. schimperi did not exhibit a significant difference in most developmental indices including the development of a circulatory system, nervous system, and musculoskeletal systems among treated animals and the controls. However, histopathological evaluation of placentas from the treatment groups showed that inflammatory reactions and calcifications compared to the pair-fed and ad libitum controls. Conclusion. Administration of the 80% hydroalcoholic extract of E. schimperi fruit during the period of organogenesis in rats did not show a significant toxic effect on embryonic and fetal developmental indices. However, it might affect the structural integrity of the placenta as it is evidenced by inflammatory reactions and calcifications of decidua basalis of rat placenta.
Direct Torque Control of Induction Motor Using ConvLSTM Based on Gaussian Pillbox Surface
Authors: Potturi Sudharani , Reddy K. Jyotheeswara , Dash Ritesh , Jena Ramakanta , Subburaj Vivekanandan , Dhanamjayulu C.
Published: October 2022

This article introduces long short-term memory (LSTM)-enabled direct torque control (DTC) for induction motor under a wide range of operation. Low-power applications of industrial drives are more as compared to high-power applications. The main objective of this paper is to address high torque, poor dynamic response, and flux ripple problems observed in low-power induction motor drives. The voltage selector switching table is replaced by LSTM encoder and embedding layer with hysteresis comparator. This will ensure robust control against induction motor disturbances and at the same time will enhance the stator flux trajectory prediction for DTC. Most of the studies describe DTC at a higher speed. In this article, the DTC has been applied to lower speed IM, typically in the range of 100 RPM. Different LSTM models have also been presented in terms of response time. A detailed comparative analysis between LSTM and fuzzy and ANFIS-based DTC has been carried out using MATLAB/Simulink model. The performance has been evaluated under steady and transient conditions as well.
Detection and Treatment of Helicobacter pylori: Problems and Advances
Authors: Yang Hang , Guan Liwen , Hu Bing
Published: October 2022

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is chronic and etiologically linked to gastric cancer (GC) derived from gastric epithelium. The potential mechanism is complex, covering chronic inflammation, epithelial senescence, NF-κB activation, the cytotoxin-associated gene A protein translocation, and related abnormal signaling pathways. In clinical practice, the test-and-treat strategy, endoscopy-based strategy, and (family-based) screen-and-treat strategy are recommended to detect H. pylori and prevent GC. It has been demonstrated that the decreasing annual incidence of GC is largely attributable to the management of H. pylori. This study reviews the current clinical practice of H. pylori on the detection and eradication, alternative treatment strategies, and related problems and advances, and hopes to contribute to the better clinical management of H. pylori.
Trajectory Similarity Matching and Remaining Useful Life Prediction Based on Dynamic Time Warping
Authors: Huang Lin , Gong Li , Chen Yutao , Li Dongliang , Zhu Guoqing
Published: October 2022

Remaining useful life prediction based on trajectory similarity is a typical example of instance-based learning. Hence, trajectory similarity prediction based on Euclidean distance has the problems of matching and low prediction accuracy. Therefore, an engine remaining useful life (RUL) prediction method based on dynamic time warping (DTW) is proposed. First, aiming at the problem of engine structure complexity and multiple monitoring parameters, the principal component analysis is used to reduce the dimension of multisensor signals. Then, the system performance degradation trajectory is extracted based on kernel regression. After obtaining the degradation trajectory database, the similarity matching of the degradation trajectory is carried out based on DTW. After finding the best matching curve, the RUL can be predicted. Finally, the proposed method is verified by the public aeroengine simulation dataset of NASA, and compared with several representatives and high-precision literature methods based on the same dataset, which verifies the effectiveness of the method.
Cellulitis Caused by Hirudo orientalis Bites That Lead to an Allergic reaction
Authors: Najjari Mohsen , Solgi Rahmat , Tavakoli Kareshk Amir
Published: October 2022

The allergic reaction due to leech bites is frequently reported due to complications of leech therapy and also unwanted leech infestation. Regularly, the urticarial papules are common, and itching lasts less than 24 h. In the case of leech biting, dermal infection could be caused by leech gut bacterial flora such as Aeromonas spp and histamine from leech saliva. In this case report, a 30-year-old diabetic woman, who works in the field of leech breeding, was bitten by Hirudo orientalis during breeding. Her clinical signs were inflammation, swelling, pain, and redness in the back of her left hand. A microbiological examination revealed that the isolated leech was infected with Aeromona hydrophila. The risk of death due to anaphylactic shock and sepsis is high in some cases of underlying diabetes and immunocompromised individuals. The study pointed out the hazards of leech bites and proposed preventative measures such as using gloves and boots for farm workers.
Current Trends on Solid Dispersions: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Malkawi Ruba , Malkawi Walla I. , Al-Mahmoud Yahia , Tawalbeh Jawad
Published: October 2022

Solid dispersions have achieved significant interest as an effective means of enhancing the dissolution rate and thus the bioavailability of a range of weakly water-soluble drugs. Solid dispersions of weakly water-soluble drugs with water-soluble carriers have lowered the frequency of these problems and improved dissolution. Solid dispersion is a solubilization technology emphasizing mainly on, drug-polymer two-component systems in which drug dispersion and its stabilization is the key to formulation development. Therefore, this technology is recognized as an exceptionally useful means of improving the dissolution properties of poorly water-soluble drugs and in the latest years, a big deal of understanding has been accumulated about solid dispersion, however, their commercial application is limited. In this review article, emphasis is placed on solubility, BCS classification, and carriers. Moreover, this article presents the diverse preparation techniques for solid dispersion and gathers some of the recent technological transfers. The different types of solid dispersions based on the carrier used and molecular arrangement were underlined. Additionally, it summarizes the mechanisms, the methods of preparing solid dispersions, and the marketed drugs that are available using solid dispersion approaches.
Unique Complications of MIS-C and Its Treatment: Encephalopathy in a Child with MIS-C Who Developed Life-Threatening Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage
Authors: Burton Luke , Manchikalapati Ananya , Rutledge Chrystal , Loberger Jeremy M. , Rockwell Nicholas , Cooper Joshua , Lawrence Maggie , Sasser William C.
Published: October 2022

In this case report, we describe a previously healthy eleven-year-old male diagnosed with multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) associated with coronavirus disease 2019. The patient presented with shock and neurologic symptoms including altered mental status and dysarthria. Brain magnetic resonance imaging, obtained to rule out thromboembolic injury, demonstrated cytotoxic edema of the corpus callosum, an imaging finding similar in nature to several previous reports of MRI abnormalities in children with MIS-C. Following administration of intravenous immunoglobulin and pulse-dose steroids, the patient convalesced and was discharged home. Medications prescribed upon discharge included a steroid taper, daily aspirin, and proton pump inhibitor. Four days later, he was readmitted with shock and life-threatening gastrointestinal (GI) hemorrhage. After extensive evaluation of potential bleeding sources, angiography revealed active bleeding from two arterial vessels supplying the duodenum. The patient demonstrated no further signs of bleeding following successful coil embolization of the two vessels. We hypothesize that the vasculitic nature of MIS-C combined with anti-inflammatory and antithrombotic therapy placed him at risk of GI hemorrhage. This case highlights unique radiologic features of MIS-C as well as potential complications of treatment.
Electroacupuncture at Acupoint ST36 (Zusanli) Improves Intestinal Motility Dysfunction Via Increasing the Proportion of Cholinergic Neurons in Rat Ileal Myenteric Ganglia after Severe Acute Pancreatitis
Authors: Wang Xueling , Lu Lingyun , Zi Liu , Hu Hangqi , Li Hao , He Ying , Li Ning , Wen Qian
Published: October 2022

Using a severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) rat model, the mechanism of electroacupuncture (EA) were studied on the intestinal function of pancreatitis. The SAP models were established by injecting 30% L-ornithine at hourly intervals, and were divided into two groups (14 in each): SAP model group, which was not treated, and EA group, which received EA at ST36 at a frequency of 1-2 Hz and amplitude of 1 mA for 30 min twice a day. Fourteen rats were also included as the control group. After EA, the intestinal propulsion was measured. In the distal ileum myenteric plexus, the density of HuC/D and the proportion of cholinergic neurons were measured using immunohistochemistry. Compared to the SAP model group, the EA group demonstrated significant improvements in intestinal propulsion rates. Furthermore, after EA, the density of myenteric neurons in the ileum returned to normal levels and the proportion of cholinergic neurons was increased compared to the SAP model group. And finally, EA alleviated the damage to the pancreas. Thus, our results suggest that EA stimulation at ST36 can partly restore the enteric neuron function and improve intestinal motility dysfunction, therefore could ameliorate SAP. The enteric nervous system can participate in changes in intestinal motility by affecting cholinergic neurons.
Attack Rate for Wild-Type SARS-CoV-2 during Air Travel: Results from 46 Flights Traced by German Health Authorities, January–March and June–August 2020
Authors: Moek Felix , Rohde Anna , Schöll Meike , Seidel Juliane , Baum Jonathan H. J. , Heiden Maria an der
Published: October 2022

Background. Evidence on the risk of SARS-CoV-2 transmission during air travel is scarce. We aimed to estimate the attack rate for wild-type SARS-CoV-2 to improve the evidence base for the adaptation of nonpharmaceutical intervention (NPI) strategies aboard airplanes. Methods. In collaboration with German Public Health Authorities (PHA), we conducted a follow-up of in-flight SARS-CoV-2 contact persons. We included those contact persons whom the Emergency Operations Centre at the Robert Koch-Institute had forwarded to PHA between January to March 2020 (before masking on flights became mandatory) and June to August 2020 (after the introduction of mandatory masking). We retrospectively collected data on whether these contact persons had been successfully contacted, had become symptomatic and had been tested for SARS-CoV-2, and whether alternative exposures other than the flight were known. Results. Complete data that allowed for the calculation of attack rates were available for 108 contact persons (median age of 36 (IQR 24–53), 40% female), traveling on 46 flights with a median flight duration of 3 hours (IQR 2–3.5). 62 of these persons travelled after masking on flights became mandatory. 13/87 developed symptoms, 44/77 were tested (no data for 21 and 31). 13 persons (9 of whom had been SARS-CoV-2 positive) were excluded from the analysis of attack rates due to a likely alternative exposure. We thus identified 4 probable in-flight transmissions (2 of which occurred after the introduction of mandatory masking). The overall attack rate resulted in 4.2% (4/95; 95% CI: 1.4%–11.0%). Considering flights after mandatory masking, the attack rate was 3.6% (2/56, 95% CI 0.6%–13.4%), before masking 5.1% (2/39, 95% CI 0.9%–18.6%). Conclusions. The risk of wild-type SARS-CoV-2 transmission during air travel seemed low, but not negligible. In order to formulate an effective, evidence-based NPI protocol for air travel, further studies considering the different transmissibility of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern and vaccination status are needed.
Morphological and Molecular Descriptions of Macracanthorhynchus ingens (Acanthocephala: Oligacanthorhynchidae) Collected from Hedgehogs in Iran
Authors: Najjari Mohsen , Tavakoli Kareshk Amir , Darvishi Mohammad , Barzegar Gholamreza , Dusti Majid , Namaei Mohammad Hasan , Shafaie Ebrahim , Solgi Rahmat
Published: October 2022

Aim. Limited data exist on acanthocephalan infections of hedgehogs in the world. Our objective was to investigate the prevalence and distribution of Macracanthorhynchus ingens infection in hedgehogs between August 2021 and March 2022 (n = 30) in the east of Iran. Methods. At first, infection with M. ingens was diagnosed based on morphologic features of the adults such as body length, proboscis, and hooks. Spindle-shaped eggs (mean length, 99.1 microns; mean width, 60.1 microns) were obtained from the body cavity of gravid female specimens. Results. The molecular analysis based on 18S rDNA and COX 1 genes confirmed the morphological identification of isolated M. ingens. The prevalence of M. ingens in our sample was 13.3% with 1–10 worms per infected host. Conclusion. In this study, we identify M. ingens as zoonotic species in hedgehog carcasses for the first time that passed eggs and adult worms, indicating parasite maturation and reproduction. There are a few studies on acanthocephalans in Iran. Therefore, more comparative studies are needed to determine the status of these species.
IMP4 Silencing Inhibits the Malignancy of Lung Adenocarcinoma via ERK Pathway
Authors: Li Ruzhen , Han Zhaohui , Ma Wei , Zhang Lin , Zhang Xiangwei , Jiang Yuanzhu , Dong Wei
Published: October 2022

Our study aimed to elucidate the function of IMP U3 small nucleolar ribonucleoprotein 4 (IMP4) in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and its potential molecular mechanisms. Cell counting kit-8, 5-ethynyl-20-deoxyuridine, flow cytometry, wound healing, and transwell assays were performed to examine the biological behaviour of LUAD cells. mRNA and protein expression levels were determined using quantitative real-time PCR, Western blotting, and immunohistochemistry. In addition, a mouse tumour xenograft model was used to evaluate the role of IMP4 in tumour progression. Furthermore, glycolysis-related indicators were measured. The levels of IMP4 were up-regulated in both human LUAD tissues and cells. IMP4 silencing significantly suppressed proliferation, migration, invasion, and glycolysis; promoted apoptosis; and induced cell cycle arrest in LUAD cells. IMP4 silencing also inactivated the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway. Moreover, rescue experiments demonstrated that the function of LUAD cells induced by IMP4 overexpression could be reversed by treatment with an ERK pathway inhibitor (SCH772984). In vivo experiments further verified that IMP4 silencing repressed the growth of subcutaneous tumours and glycolysis. IMP4 silencing suppressed the malignancy of LUAD by inactivating ERK signalling.
HPLC Fingerprint Analysis of Rana chensinensis Eggs from Different Habitats and Their Antitussive Effect
Authors: Xu Yang , Xu Fangfei , Wang Yuejie , Wang Xu , Bao Huiwei
Published: October 2022

In this paper, a novel fingerprint method was established for the quality control of Rana chensinensis eggs (RE) by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Cluster analysis and principal component analysis were performed. Besides, the antitussive effect of RE was explored. The analysis was achieved on a Kromasil 100-5C18 (4.6 mm × 250 mm, 5 μm) column by gradient elution using methanol-0.1% phosphoric acid solution as the mobile phase. The influence of RE on cough latent periods and cough times of mice was investigated via an ammonia cough-inducing experiment. The validated HPLC method was precise, reproducible, and stable. The HPLC fingerprints of 10 batches of RE samples displayed 31 well-resolved common peaks in the chromatogram. Three of these peaks were identified and assigned to 1-methyl hydantoin, estradiol, and 4-cholestene-3-one. The similarities of 10 batches of samples were more than 0.95. RE from different origins could be classified into three groups via SPSS 23.0 software, suggesting RE samples from various provinces (Jilin, Liaoning, and Heilongjiang) can be well distinguished via the established method. High dose and middle dose of the RE group can significantly prolong the cough latent periods of mice (

P

 < 0.05 or

P

 < 0.01) and inhibit the cough times of mice (

P

 < 0.01), indicating RE had a good antitussive effect. HPLC fingerprint combined with multicomponent determination can be an efficient and useful method for monitoring the quality of RE. This study also provided a more comprehensive strategy for the quality evaluation of RE.
Minimally Invasive Surgery for Sternoclavicular Joint Infection with Osteomyelitis, Large Abscesses, and Mediastinitis
Authors: Ota Hideki , Ishida Hirotaka , Matsumoto Hidekazu , Ishiyama Tomoharu
Published: October 2022

Background. Sternoclavicular joint infections require en bloc resection for radical cure; however, this aggressive procedure may result in multiple adverse events. Therefore, performing minimally invasive surgery is desirable. In this report, we describe a case of sternoclavicular joint infection complicated by osteomyelitis, large abscesses, and mediastinitis that was successfully treated with incision and drainage. Case Presentation. A 42-year-old man with no medical history presented to our hospital with complaints of painful swelling in the left chest wall and acute dyspnea. Computed tomography revealed arthritis of the left sternoclavicular joint, osteomyelitis of the clavicle and sternum, anterior mediastinitis, and abscesses in the neck, chest wall, and retrosternal and extrapleural spaces. Gram staining of the aspirated pus revealed clusters of gram-positive cocci. A diagnosis of Staphylococcus aureus sternoclavicular joint infection with locoregional spread was made. Emergency surgery was performed following adequate resuscitation. A skin incision was made in the second intercostal space. The joint capsule was widely opened, necrotic tissue was curetted, and closed suction drains were placed in the abscess cavities and connected to a negative pressure system. The wound was then closed using primary sutures. The postoperative course was uneventful. Methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus was cultured from the pus. The patient was discharged on postoperative day 14. Osteomyelitis worsened within a few weeks after surgery but recovered with wound management and six weeks of antibiotic therapy. The patient has had no recurrence of infection for two years. Conclusions. Incision and drainage proved to be an effective minimally invasive surgical treatment for sternoclavicular joint infection with osteomyelitis, large abscesses, and mediastinitis caused by methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus.
Synthesis and Characterization of Borosilicate Glass Powder-Reinforced Novel Lightweight Aluminum Matrix Composites
Authors: Bhowmik Abhijit , Meher Arabinda , Biswas Srijit , Dey Dipankar , Kumar M. Saravana , Biswas Ajay , Alsharabi Rim M.
Published: October 2022

Due to greater specific strength and stiffness than monolithic metal, aluminum matrix composite is in high demand. The present study investigated the interaction of borosilicate glass powder with the AA7075 aluminum alloy matrix. The lower density of borosilicate glass powder compared to AA7075 alloy makes the composite more appropriate for various industrial applications due to the increased material strength. This study uses the stir casting fabrication process to develop microsized borosilicate glass powder-reinforced aluminum matrix composites. The microstructure shows that borosilicate glass powder is near-uniformly distributed throughout the aluminum matrix. It is observed that the 9 wt (%) borosilicate glass powder-reinforced aluminum matrix composite increases the tensile strength by 40.71%, hardness by 21.21%, and impact strength by 34.37% compared to unreinforced aluminum AA7075 alloy. Pin-on-disc wear testing setup was used to determine the wear performance of the base AA7075 alloy and cast composites. The dry sliding wear test revealed that the glass powder-reinforced composites have better wear resistance properties compared to the unreinforced matrix due to the hard and rigid behavior of borosilicate glass reinforcement.
Predictive Model for Diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes in the Kurdistan Region by a Combination of Clustering and Classification Algorithms: An Ensemble Approach
Authors: Jader Rasool , Aminifar Sadegh
Published: October 2022

Gestational diabetes is a type of high blood sugar that develops during pregnancy. It can occur at any stage of pregnancy and cause problems for both the mother and the baby, during and after birth. The risks can be reduced if they are early detected and managed, especially in areas where only periodic tests of pregnant women are available. Intelligent systems designed by machine learning algorithms are remodelling all fields of our lives, including the healthcare system. This study proposes a combined prediction model to diagnose gestational diabetes. The dataset was obtained from the Kurdistan region laboratories, which collected information from pregnant women with and without diabetes. The suggested model uses the clustering KMeans technique for data reduction and the elbow method to find the optimal k value and the Mahalanobis distance method to find more related cluster to new samples, and the classification methods such as decision tree, random forest, SVM, KNN, logistic regression, and Naïve Bayes are used for prediction. The results showed that using a mix of KMeans clustering, elbow method, Mahalanobis distance, and ensemble technique significantly improves prediction accuracy.
HIV-Associated Nephropathy in 2022
Authors: Rivera Frederick Berro , Ansay Marie Francesca Mapua , Golbin Jem Marie , Alfonso Pia Gabrielle I. , Mangubat Gerard Francis E. , Menghrajani Rajiv Hans Solita , Placino Siena , Taliño Marianne Katharina Vicera , De Luna Deogracias Villa , Cabrera Nicolo , Trinidad Carlo Nemesio , Kazory Amir
Published: October 2022

Background: HIV-associated nephropathy (HIVAN) is a renal parenchymal disease that occurs exclusively in people living with HIV. It is a serious kidney condition that may possibly lead to end-stage kidney disease, particularly in the HIV-1 seropositive patients. Summary: The African-American population has increased susceptibility to this comorbidity due to a strong association found in the APOL1 gene, specifically two missense mutations in the G1 allele and a frameshift deletion in the G2 allele, although a “second-hit” event is postulated to have a role in the development of HIVAN. HIVAN presents with proteinuria, particularly in the nephrotic range, as with other kidney diseases. The diagnosis requires biopsy and typically presents with collapsing subtype focal segmental glomerulosclerosis and microcyst formation in the tubulointerstitial region. Gaps still exist in the definitive treatment of HIVAN – concurrent use of antiretroviral therapy and adjunctive management with like renal-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors, steroids, or renal replacement therapy showed benefits. Key Message: This study reviews the current understanding of HIVAN including its epidemiology, mechanism of disease, related genetic factors, clinical profile, and pathophysiologic effects of management options for patients.
A novel natural fiber from plane tree (Platanus orientalis L.) fruits to reinforce polypropylene composites
Authors: Atabek Savas Lemiye
Published: October 2022

This study investigated the mechanical properties of polypropylene composites reinforced with short natural fibers obtained from plane tree ( Platanus orientalis L.) fruits. The fibers were harvested from the fruits that naturally fell from the tree in their standard length of about 6 mm. Composites were produced via melt blending using varied concentrations of the fibers (5–10–20–30 wt.%) and maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene (MAPP) copolymer as the coupling agent. The mechanical properties of the composites were characterized by tensile test, flexural test, dynamic mechanic analysis and ball-on-disc sliding wear test. The findings revealed that the fibers had a significant effect on the mechanical properties of the polypropylene matrix and the properties were found to improve linearly with increasing fiber concentration. At a 30 wt.% fiber concentration, the tensile and flexural strengths increased about 28% and 36% compared to pure polypropylene, respectively. At this fiber concentration, the modulus doubled compared to the pristine polymer. This increase is higher than that reported for most other natural fibers. Good miscibility between fibers and matrix, enhanced thermal stability, and about 30% reduction in friction coefficients were found. As a result, PTFs have the potential to be used in industries such as automotive, construction and sports which require mechanical strength and low weight.
Adolescent and Parent Preferences for Hypodontia: Discrete Choice Experiment
Authors: Barber S. , Bekker H. , Marti J. , Pavitt S. , Khambay B. , Meads D.
Published: October 2022

Choosing hypodontia treatment requires young people and parents to consider a large amount of information, identify what is important to them, and make trade-offs between options. This study aimed to examine young people and parents’ preferences for hypodontia treatment using discrete choice experiment (DCE). This was a cross-sectional survey of young people (12–16 y) with hypodontia of any severity, at any stage of treatment, and their parents. Participants were recruited from NHS Hospitals in England and Wales. A bespoke DCE questionnaire was developed to measure preferences for 6 attributes of hypodontia treatment (waiting time, treatment time, problems during treatment, discomfort during treatment, bite, appearance). The questionnaire was completed 1) online by young people and parents, individually or together, and 2) by child–parent dyads under observation. Preferences were analyzed using regression models. In total, 204 participants (122 young people, 56 parents, 26 dyads) completed the online questionnaire and 15 child–parent dyads completed the questionnaire under observation. The most important attribute in hypodontia treatment was improvement in appearance, but significant heterogeneity was found in preferences. Four distinct groups of participants were found: group 1 (39%): severe discomfort and problems were most important; group 2 (31%): most concerned about improvement in appearance of teeth and improvement in bite; group 3 (22%): appearance 3 times more important than any other attribute; and group 4 (9%): preferences difficult to interpret. There was variation in how child–parent dyads approached decision-making, with some negotiating joint preferences, while for others, one individual dominated. Making trade-offs in DCE tasks helped some people think about treatment and identify their preferences. Appearance is an important outcome from hypodontia treatment, but preferences vary and potential risks and functional outcome are also important to some people. There is a notable level of uncertainty in decision-making, which suggests further shared decision support would be valuable.
Interpersonal Behaviors Questionnaire in Sport: Psychometric Analysis With Romanian Professional Athletes
Authors: Alexe Dan Iulian , Cîrtiţă Buzoianu Cristina , Tohănean Dragos Ioan , Larion Alin , Alexe Cristina Ioana , Dragos Paul , Burgueño Rafael
Published: October 2022

Building upon self-determination theory, our objective in this research was to adapt and analyze psychometrically the Interpersonal Behaviors Questionnaire (IBQ) in sport. Our participants were 642 professional athletes (55.14% men, M age = 22.81) who completed an online survey measuring their perception of coaching behaviors, need satisfaction, need frustration, and motivation. The results showed a good fit for the 24-item IBQ with a six-factor correlated model (χ2/ df = 4.178; CFI = .925; TLI = .912; SRMR = .048; RMSEA = .070), and we obtained evidence supporting its convergent and discriminant validity. The analyses also underpinned measurement invariance across gender, age, and sport, and confirmed good reliability. Criterion validity was met by positive associations of autonomy-supportive, competence-supportive, and relatedness-supportive behaviors with need satisfaction and autonomous motivation; and of autonomy-thwarting, competence-thwarting and relatedness-thwarting behaviors with need frustration, controlled motivation and amotivation. The adapted IBQ can be applied to the assessment of professional Romanian athletes’ perceptions of need-supportive and need-thwarting coaching behaviors.
Cryogenic milling-based keratin microparticle production from Anatolian goat fibers and their structural, chemical and thermal properties
Authors: Duman Şeyma , Küçük Merve
Published: October 2022

Fibers procured from Anatolian goat ( Capra aegagrus hircus) furs were converted into keratin microparticles by the cryogenic milling method. Single-stage mechanical milling with a 2.5 h optimal grinding time was sufficient enough to generate the desired high-quality microparticles. No chemical solvents were utilized during the production process of keratin microparticles. Structural, chemical and thermal properties of keratin microparticles were assessed using particle size analyzer, stereo microscope, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller™ surface analyzer, field emission scanning electron microscope, X-ray diffractometer, attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analyzer and differential scanning calorimetry methods. According to the characterization results, microparticles with amorphous structure in micro size could be produced without any agglomeration during the milling process. Goat farming is usually for dairy products and their fibers have very limited use in the textile industry because of their flat structure. Therefore, the conversion of goat fibers into another product that can be used in other industrial areas is expected to contribute significantly to a sustainable economy.
Preparation of multicolor microcapsules and their application in smart color-switching textiles
Authors: Zhang Lan , Meng Jia-guang , Liu Ya-ming , Wang Yong-zhen , Sun Zhao-ling , Yu Ling-jie , Gao Xing-yun , Zhi Chao
Published: October 2022

Spiropyran and spiroxazine photochromics have attracted increasing attention in optical data storage, optical switches, and anti-counterfeiting for decades. To expand the applications of spiropyran and spiroxazine, the durability and multi-color changes of spiropyran and spiroxazine still need to be explored. In this article, based on the subtractive principle of dyes, multi-color spiropyran and spiroxazine microcapsules with uniform particle sizes were prepared by the interfacial polymerization method via using compounds (spiropyran and spiroxazine) of different colors as the core material, and polyurethane as the shell material. Among them, toluene diisocyanate and polyethylene glycol constitute the hard and soft segments of polyurethane, respectively. The color of spiropyran and spiroxazine microcapsules can effectively switch between color and colorless, showing excellent photo fatigue resistance. The average particle size of microcapsules is 2.951 µm, and the particle distribution index value is 0.314, which shows the particle size is small and uniform. The maximum thermal decomposition temperature is 426°C, demonstrating good thermal stability. The hydrophobic photochromic fabric was prepared by coating multi-color spiropyran and spiroxazine microcapsules on cotton knitted fabric and hydrophobic treatment. The hydrophobic photochromic fabric is hydrophobic and stain resistant, and exhibits multi-color dynamic switching and long-lasting use. After 50 cycles of washing, the water contact angle of the fabric remains about 109°, showing its good washing resistance and water repellency. In addition, spiropyran and spiroxazine microcapsules are also applied in template and screen printing to impart rich and dynamic color-changing effects to fabrics, fabricating photochromic fabrics. Photochromic fabrics have potential applications in civilian and military fields.
Research on full color gamut mixing model constructed by CNC spinning and Stearns-Noechel color prediction method
Authors: Sun Xianqiang , Xue Yuan , Liu Yuexing , Zhang Guoqing , Liu Lixia , Wang Liqiang
Published: October 2022

A full color gamut mixing model including 166 grid points was constructed based on a ternary coupled mixing algorithm. Using 31 grid points as standard samples and preparing colored yarns and their fabrics, the 961 groups of spectral reflectance curves of 31 fabrics were obtained by spectrophotometer, and the reflectance conversion coefficient solution approach with spectral wavelength and mixing ratios of colored fibers as independent variables was provided by Stearns-Noechel formula. The method of predicting colors of yarns using colors and mixing ratios of three primary colored fibers and predicting color values and mixing ratios of three primary colored fibers by devised colors is proposed. Experiments show that solving the reflectance conversion coefficient according to the spectral wavelength and mixing ratios of colored fibers may improve the prediction accuracy of the Stearns-Noechel formula. The application of an improved reflectance conversion coefficient in the Stearns-Noechel formula enhances the prediction accuracy of both the colors and the mixing ratios.
Self-Assessment of Deployment of Connected and Autonomous Vehicle Technologies Using U.S. Department of Transportation Framework: An Illustration Using Alaska Data
Authors: Vasudevan Vinod , Kapourchali Mohammad Heidari
Published: October 2022

Connected and autonomous vehicle (CAV) technology is expected to play a massive role in road infrastructure design in the United States. While some states are leading CAV testing and implementation efforts, most states follow a wait-and-watch approach. However, to fully utilize CAV technology, each state must first understand its current capabilities related to CAV and, more broadly, to transportation systems management and operations (TSMO). The TSMO/CAV Capability Maturity Model (CMM) Framework, published by the U.S. Department of Transportation (U.S. DOT) in 2017, provides a set of guidelines to agencies across the country for assessing and advancing the agencies’ CAV and TSMO capabilities. However, no case studies on its implementation are currently available. This paper summarizes the implementation of the self-assessment of the capabilities of the Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities across the U.S. DOT’s six prescribed dimensions. The authors believe that this paper is one of the first documents to summarize an agency’s TSMO/CAV CMM process.
Explaining International Change: The Need for Greater Plurality in the Discipline of International Relations
Authors: Atlı Altay
Published: October 2022

In the third decade of the twenty-first century, the world is witnessing rapid changes in every field, and this refers not only to the accelerated pace of technological developments, social changes, economic booms and crashes, etc. but also to a major transformation in the international system from the post-1945 liberal international structure under the hegemonic stability provided by the United States to one that is marked with a larger number of major actors who do not necessarily subscribe to the tenets of free markets and electoral democracy. In this rapidly transforming world, efforts made by the scholarly inquiry of international relations fail to keep up with the speed of the empirical change. This paper asserts that the main reason of this shortcoming of the IR as a discipline is its lack of pluralism, meaning that mainstream IR theories continue to reflect Western viewpoints and interests while at the same time ignoring alternative, non-Western theories to large extent. This paper's argument is that such alternative IR theories and approaches have to emerge and reinforce the Western-centric mainstream so that the discipline can be in a better position to explain international change, as a multi-actor process cannot be adequately explained through the lens of one single actor. The potential offered by Chinese IR theory making is discussed within this context on the grounds that as China is one of the main proponents of change at the international level, Chinese perspectives produced through Chinese geocultural reference points are needed not to replace but to complement Western narratives in order to explain the change at the global level.
The Role of Institutional Trust in Industry, Government, and Regulators in Shaping Perceptions of Risk Associated with Hydraulic Fracturing in the United Kingdom
Authors: Stretesky Paul B. , Short Damien , Stamford Laurence
Published: October 2022

This study draws upon concepts of institutional trust and expendability to examine perceptions of risk associated with hydraulic fracturing or “fracking.” To study trust and risk, we collected data from a nationally representative sample of U.K. residents and analyzed it using multivariate regression. Perceptions of trust are measured for the oil and gas industry, central government, local government, and regulators while perceived risks are measured for seismicity, water quality, and hydraulic fracturing in general. Participants with high levels of trust in the oil and gas industry tend to perceive lower levels of risk associated with hydraulic fracturing. Levels of government and regulator trust are, however, largely unrelated to perceived risks. Importantly, trust in the oil and gas industry appears to mediate the relationship between political affiliation and perceptions of risk. Implications for theories of recreancy and environmental justice are explored.
The development and correlated change of narcissism and self-esteem in adulthood
Authors: Jung Janis , Rentzsch Katrin , Schröder-Abé Michela
Published: October 2022

The conceptual and empirical overlap of grandiose narcissism and self-esteem is part of ongoing debate. Whereas cross-sectional findings suggest a moderate correlation between both constructs, evidence on the longitudinal relationship of narcissism and self-esteem is still lacking. Using data of two longitudinal studies consisting of more than 10,000 participants in adulthood, the aim of the present study was to investigate whether narcissism and self-esteem follow similar developmental patterns and whether longitudinal change in narcissism is related to longitudinal change in self-esteem. Participants provided self-ratings of global, agentic, and antagonistic narcissism as well as their general perception of self-esteem. The results of True Intraindividual Change Models showed that although narcissism and self-esteem were associated cross-sectionally, intraindividual change in narcissism was largely unrelated to intraindividual change in self-esteem, suggesting a predominantly independent development of both constructs. The findings contribute to a more profound understanding of the developmental similarities and idiosyncrasies of narcissism and self-esteem in adulthood.
Deviations From Best Practice: Findings From a Certified Patient Safety Organization Remote-Verification Observational Study of Intravenous Compounding of Chemotherapeutic and Ancillary Drugs
Authors: Lombardo Jeffrey , Coles John , Ryszka Daniel , Roussel Christine , Smith William
Published: October 2022

Background: Chemotherapeutic and immunomodulatory medications can pose a serious risk to patient and healthcare provider safety because of complex processes, cytotoxicity, and prevalent medication use. Objective: To evaluate chemotherapeutic and ancillary medication compounding in hospital pharmacies using a remote verification system, focusing on pharmaceutical deviations from best practice, compounding time, medication waste, and cost. Methods: This retrospective, blinded observational study used a remote intravenous (IV) workflow verification system to examine IV chemotherapeutic compounding errors in large hospital systems. A Patient Safety Organization securely obtained >5000 compounding records and photos from the IV workflow system. Blinded pharmacists evaluated IV chemotherapy preparations using picture slide viewers to assess any deviations from best practice. Time variables, medication waste, STAT vs non-STAT orders, and cost were also evaluated. Results: The most frequently reported deviations from best practice included medications exceeding the >10% additive volume guideline (35.9%) and inaccurate dose labels (28.3%). Time flow analyses demonstrated a substantial increase in total compounding time per vial for 1 vs 2 vials. Most medications in this analysis had an average waste ranging from 0-.36 vials. STAT orders, accounting for 38.4% of all orders, wasted more medication than non-STAT orders. Gemcitabine cost analyses showed an association for number of vials and compounding time with overall cost per dose. Conclusion: Substantial inconsistencies between workflow stations were observed—highlighting the lack of standardization across chemotherapeutics, volume of medication waste during preparation, and the need to establish improved quality controls to safeguard patient and health care provider safety.
Assessing the current state of university-based business incubators in Canada
Authors: Yasin Naveed , Majid Gilani Sayed Abdul
Published: October 2022

This paper explores the current state of university-based business incubators (UBIs) in Canada by utilizing both secondary and primary data obtained through desk-based secondary research and semi-structured interviews with UBI managers, academics, and support staff. These data informed the development of nine cases of UBIs in Canada. The data were collected from VoIP (Voice-Over-Internet-Protocol) based semi-structured interviews with 32 participants during the COVID-19 pandemic (March 2021–February 2022), from which 9 cases were developed during the pandemic. The key themes derived from the findings were the development of communication skills, curriculum development, extra-curricular activities, industry engagement, innovation, research skills and strategic thinking. The originality of this study lies in its identification of the current state of UBI activities as well as its assessment of the broad range of activities and provisions among Canadian UBIs. The empirical development of showcasing these initiatives is also novel for the efficacy of UBIs concerning institutional and managerial decision-making and operational planning. There are implications for academics, senior management in higher education, entrepreneurs, policymakers and other stakeholders in the entrepreneurship ecosystem.