bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Social Media Data Misuse
Authors: Soussan Tariq , Trovati Marcello
Published: June 2021

The present high-tech landscape has allowed institutes to undergo digital transformation in addition to the storing of exceptional bulks of information from several resources, such as mobile phones, debit cards, GPS, transactions, online logs, and e-records. With the growth of technology, big data has grown to be a huge resource for several corporations that helped in encouraging enhanced strategies and innovative enterprise prospects. This advancement has also offered the expansion of linkable data resources. One of the famous data sources is social media platforms. Ideas and different types of content are being posted by thousands of people via social networking sites. These sites have provided a modern method for operating companies efficiently. However, some studies showed that social media platforms can be a source for misinformation at which some users tend to misuse social media data. In this work, the ethical concerns and conduct in online communities has been reviewed in order to see how social media data from different platforms has been misused, and to highlight some of the ways to avoid the misuse of social media data.
The Development of Feeding and Eating Disorders after Bariatric Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Taba João Victor , Suzuki Milena Oliveira , Nascimento Fernanda Sayuri do , Iuamoto Leandro Ryuchi , Hsing Wu Tu , Zumerkorn Pipek Leonardo , Carneiro-D’Albuquerque Luiz Augusto , Meyer Alberto , Andraus Wellington
Published: June 2021

Background: Patients in the postoperative period following bariatric surgery are at risk of developing eating disorders. This study aims to analyse the relation between bariatric surgery and the development and recurrence of eating disorders. Material and methods: Literature review was done on 15th November 2020. Fourteen studies that met the eligibility criteria were included for qualitative synthesis, and 7 studies for meta-analysis. Results: The prevalence of eating disorders in the postoperative period was 7.83%, based on the 7 studies in the meta-analysis. Binge eating disorder alone was 3.81%, which was the most significant factor, and addressed in 6 of these studies. Conclusion: The investigated studies have significant methodological limitations in assessing the relation between bariatric surgery and eating disorders, since they mostly present data on prevalence. PROSPERO CRD42019135614.
A Study of RANS Turbulence Models in Fully Turbulent Jets: A Perspective for CFD-DEM Simulations
Authors: Weaver Dustin Steven , Mišković Sanja
Published: June 2021

This paper presents an analysis of linear viscous stress Favre-Averaged turbulence models for computational fluid dynamics (CFD) of fully turbulent round jets with a long straight tube geometry in the near field. Although similar work has been performed in the past with very relevant solutions, considerations were not given for the issues and limitations involved with coupling between an Eulerian and Lagrangian phase, such as in fully two-way coupled CFD-DEM. These issues include limitations on solution domain, mesh cell size, wall modelling, and momentum coupling between the two phases in relation to the particles size. Therefore, within these considerations, solutions are provided to the Navier-Stokes equations with various turbulence models using a three-dimensional wedge long straight tube geometry for fully developed turbulence flow. Simulations are performed with a Reynolds number of 15000 and 50000 using two different tube diameters. It is found that a modified k−ε turbulence model achieved the most agreeable results for both the velocity and turbulent flow fields between these two flow regimes, while a modified k−ω SST/BSL also provided suitable results.
Mild Cognitive Impairment is not a Valid Concept and Should be Replaced by a More Restrictive, Biologically Validated Class, Named Mild Cognitive Dysfunctions (MCD): A Nomothetic Network Approach
Authors: Maes Michael , Tangwongchai Sookjaroen
Published: June 2021

Background: No studies have examined whether interactions between the apolipoprotein E4 (ApoE4) allele and peripheral biomarkers, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) may impact the neurocognitive, behavioral and social dysfunctions in amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) and Alzheimer disease (AD). Aims: To clinically define and biologically validate a subgroup of aMCI subjects that take up an intermediate position between controls and AD patients. Methods: In 61 healthy controls, 60 subjects with aMCI, and 60 AD patients we measured the features of aMCI/AD using the Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer’s Disease (CERAD). A composite BIORISK score was computed using the ApoE4 allele, serum folate, albumin, white blood cells, fasting blood glucose (FBG), atherogenic index of plasma (AIP), T2DM and hypertension. Results: Clustering and nearest neighbour analyses were unable to validate the aMCI subgroup. We constructed two z unit-based composite scores, the first indicating overall burden of cognitive, social, and behavioural deterioration (OBD), and a second reflecting the interactions between ApoE4, all other biomarkers, hypertension and T2DM (BIORISK). We found that 40.2% of the variance in the OBD score was explained by BIORISK, ApoE4, age and education. The OBD index was used to construct three subgroups (normal, medium, and high OBD) with the medium group (n=45) showing mild cognitive dysfunctions (MCD) in memory, language, orientation, and ADL. People with MCD show OBD and BIORISK scores that are significantly different from controls and AD.Conclusions: Petersen’s aMCI criteria cannot be validated and should be replaced by the more restrictive, biologically validated MCD class.
Morphological Transformation of SDS Aggregates in a Deep Eutectic Solvent Above the Fracto-eutectogel to Fluid Transition Temperature
Authors: Matthews Lauren , Michel Sarah E.S. , Rogers Sarah E. , Bartlett Paul , Johnson Andrew J. , Sochon Robert , Briscoe Wuge H.
Published: June 2021

Understanding surfactant self-assembly in deep eutectic solvents (DES) is important to their potential use in industrial formulations. We have recently reported the formation of a fracto-eutectogel comprising SDS fractal aggregates at a concentration as low as 1.6 wt% in glyceline (a DES comprising glycerol and choline chloride) at room temperature. The building units of the fractals consisted of multilayers of self-assembled SDS lamellae arranged in a dendritic pattern. Here we report that this fractal phase transitions into a fluid phase above a critical gelation temperature, TCG ~ 45 oC, evident from polarized light microscopy (PLM) observations. Small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) reveals that this phase transition is underpinned by the nanoscopic morphological transformation of the SDS lamellae into cylindrical micelles at T > TGC. Fitting SANS profiles confirms that the morphology of the micelles is SDS-concentration (cSDS) dependent at T > TGC: cylindrical at cSDS > 0.6 wt% and spherical at cSDS = 0.6 wt%. At cSDS < 0.6 wt%, only isotropic scattering was observed in the SANS profiles. Such SDS self-assembly behaviors contrast with those we have previously observed in glycerol, which we attribute to the presence of ions (i.e. choline chloride) in glyceline. Our findings have general implications to surfactant self-assembly in DES, solvents that are rich in hydrogen bonding and ions.
Microbial Degradation of PET Plastic Sustainably Yielding Commercially Viable Products
Authors: Kapoor Atharv , Varshney Cheshte
Published: June 2021

Plastics are extensively used due to their versatility, durability, and low cost. PET stands for Polyethylene terephthalate. PET plastic is widely used all over the world and has many applications ranging from water bottles to fabrics like polyester and many things in between. But its unrestrained use in every field is resulting in heaps and piles of non-biodegradable materials causing damage to the environment and causing pollution. The idea being proposed is to degrade the PET plastic biologically using different bacteria. The bacteria used in this process are Ideonella sakaiensis, Acetobacterium woodii, Pelotomaculum and Methanospirillum hungatei. PET plastic is degraded, yielding Terephthalic Acid (TPA) and Ethylene Glycol (EG) by the action of the bacterium I. sakaiensis. Degradation of EG by A. woodii results in the formation of acetate and ethanol. TPA is degraded by the action of the coculture of Pelotomaculum and M. hungatei thereby yielding methane and acetate. All these products formed have significant commercial uses in various industries. The complete process that is to be carried out can help in achieving sustainability by fulfilling various Sustainable Development Goals set by the United Nations.
COLREGs Compliant Fuzzy-based Collision Avoidance System for Multiple Ship Encounters
Authors: Ahmed Yaseen Adnan , Hannan Mohammed Abdul , Oraby Mahmoud Yasser , Maimun Adi
Published: June 2021

As the number of ships for marine transportation increases with the advancement of global trade, encountering multiple ships in marine traffic becomes common. This situation raises the risk of collision of the ships; hence this paper proposes a novel Fuzzy-logic based intelligent conflict detection and resolution algorithm, where the collision courses and possible avoiding actions are analyzed by considering ship motion dynamics and the input and output fuzzy membership functions are derived. As a conflict detection module, the Collision Risk (CR) is measured for each ship by using a scaled nondimensional Distance to the Closest Point of Approach (DCPA) and Time to the Closest Point of Approach (TCPA) as inputs. Afterwards, the decisions for collision avoidance are made based on the calculated CR, encountering angle and relative angle of each ship measured from others. In this regard, the rules for the Fuzzy interface system are defined in accordance with the COLREGs, and the whole system is implemented on the MATLAB Simulink platform. In addition, to deal with the multiple ship encounters, the paper proposes a unique maximum-course and minimum-speed change approach for decision making, which has been found to be efficient to solve Imazu problems, and other complicated multiple-ship encounters.
Dementia Risk and Prevention in Low and Middle-income Country Settings – Focus on Tanzania Mainland
Authors: Kakilla Charles
Published: June 2021

As a result of an increasing population of aged people in sub-Saharan Africa, dementia is predicted to surge up to 90% by 2030. This review is set to assess the prevalence of dementia, for 65+ aged population in sub-Saharan states and particularly in Tanzania. Subsequently, the review will identify the possible risks factors – age, gender, level of education, cardiovascular problems, diabetes and mild cognitive impairment – and will lay out the challenges of reducing the dementia burden in Tanzania. Additionally, the review explores the current approaches in solving dementia disorders, including a general view of the public understanding of dementia. Also, the review recognises the gaps in government funding to mental health, a barrier to service access and the need for further research on Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Lastly, the review links the sustainable development goals (SDGs) addressed and appreciate the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the fight against dementia.
Towards the Forest Virome: Next-Generation-Sequencing Drastically Expands our Understanding on Virosphere in Temperate Forest Ecosystems
Authors: Rumbou Artemis , Vainio Eeva J. , Büttner Carmen
Published: June 2021

Forest health is dependent on the variability of microorganisms interacting with the host tree/holobiont. Symbiotic microbiota and pathogens engage in a permanent interplay, which influences the host. Thanks to the development of NGS technologies, a vast amount of genetic information on the virosphere of temperate forests has been gained the last seven years. To estimate the qualitative/quantitative impact of NGS in forest virology, we have summarized viruses affecting major tree/shrub species and their fungal associates, including fungal plant pathogens, mutualists and saprotrophs. The contribution of NGS methods is extremely significant for forest virology. Reviewed data about viral presence in holobionts, allowed us to address the role of the virome in the holobionts. Genetic variation is a crucial aspect in hologenome, significantly reinforced by horizontal gene transfer among all interacting actors. Through virus-virus interplays synergistic or antagonistic relations may evolve, which may drastically affect the health of the holobiont. Novel insights of these interplays may allow practical applications for forest plant protection based on endophytes and mycovirus biocontrol agents. The current analysis is conceived in light of the prospect that novel viruses may initiate an emergent infectious disease and that measures for avoidance of future outbreaks in forests should be considered.
Safety Leadership and Safety Knowledge-Attitude-Behaviour (KAB) in Malaysia’s Manufacturing SMEs: A Higher Order Two-Stage Approach of PLS-SEM
Authors: Zulkifly Syazwan Syah , Baharudin Mohd Rafee , Hasan Nor Halim
Published: June 2021

.Most of the accident cases at work are caused by unsafe behaviour. Scholars have thus extensively researched factors of safe behavior.Safety leadership is stated as the most effective factor in safety behaviour. Besides, safety knowledge and safety attitudes are also found to influence safety behaviour. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the nature of the relationship between safety leadership, safety knowledge, safety attitude, and safety behavior, which has been found to be limited or rare in previous research.A self-administered questionnaire was applied and was distributed randomly to 140 SME manufacturing workers and they were analysed using the structural equation modelling partial least squares (PLS-SEM). The results prove that safety leadership has a significant effect on safety knowledge, safety attitude, and safety behaviour, with safety knowledge and safety attitude mediating the safety leadership-safety behaviour relationship. Consequently, the results provide a more in-depth view of the relationship between safety leadership and safety knowledge-attitude-behaviour via adapting social-cognitive theory and social learning theory in solving safety issues in SME. This study also provides a starting point for researchers to better understand how effective safety leadership is provided by supervisors in terms of improving worker safety and safety knowledge-attitude-behaviour.
Effect of In Vitro Digestion on the Antioxidant and Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE)-Inhibitory Potential of Buffalo Milk Processed Cheddar Cheese
Authors: Shaukat Amal , Nadeem Muhammad , Qureshi Tahir Mahmood , Kanwal Rabiak , Sultan Muhammad , Kashongwe Olivier Basole , Shamshiri Redmond R. , Murtaza Mian Anjum
Published: June 2021

The purpose of this study was to develop an in-vitro digestion protocol to evaluate the antioxidant potential of the peptides found in processed cheddar cheese using digestion enzymes. We studied first antioxidant and angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition and antioxidant activities of processed cheddar cheese with the addition of spices e.g. cumin, clove and black pepper made from buffalo milk and ripened for 9 months. Then we conducted an in vitro digestion of processed cheddar cheese by gastric and duodenal enzymes. Freeze dried water (WSE) and ethanol soluble fractions (ESE) of processed cheddar cheese were also monitored for their ACE inhibition activity and antioxidant activities. In our preliminary experiments, different levels of spices (cumin, clove and black pepper) were tested into cheese matrix and only one level 0.2g/100g (0.2%) on the basis of cheese weight was considered good concerning sensory evaluation. Significant increase in ACE-inhibition (%) of processed Cheddar cheese as well as its WSE and ESE was obtained. Lower IC50 values were found after duodenal phase digestion compared to oral phase digestion.
Pharmacy Impact on Vaccination Progress Using Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Samir , Dutta Shawni , Mukherjee Upasana
Published: June 2021

The novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has created immense threats to public health on various levels around the globe. The unpredictable outbreak of this disease and the pandemic situation are causing severe depression, anxiety and other mental as physical health related problems among the human beings. To combat against this disease, vaccination is essential as it will boost the immune system of human beings while being in the contact with the infected people. The vaccination process is thus necessary to confront the outbreak of COVID-19. This deadly disease has put social, economic condition of the entire world into an enormous challenge. The worldwide vaccination progress should be tracked to identify how fast the entire economic as well as social life will be stabilized. The monitor ofthe vaccination progress, a machine learning based Regressor model is approached in this study. This tracking process has been applied on the data starting from 14th December, 2020 to 24th April, 2021. A couple of ensemble based machine learning Regressor models such as Random Forest, Extra Trees, Gradient Boosting, AdaBoost and Extreme Gradient Boosting are implemented and their predictive performance are compared. The comparative study reveals that the AdaBoostRegressor outperforms with minimized mean absolute error (MAE) of 9.968 and root mean squared error (RMSE) of 11.133.
Computational experiments with the AUSM technique
Authors: Val'ko Viktor Vasilievich , Savenko Nikita Olegovych , Bay Anton Alekseevich
Published: June 2021

In this paper, we discuss computational experiments based on the “AUSM” stream splitting methods. The efficiency of using various pressure approximations for flow splitting according to the original AUSM method is shown. The proposed use of splitting is tested on one-dimensional and three-dimensional problems. Partial use of the flow splitting method, only in terms of pressure, is proposed to be used in the calculations of the Euler system on unstructured grids. A variant of the application of the method of strong deceleration of the flow in the calculations of the flow around obtuse bodies is considered. The algorithm of the method for calculating flows with an extended stagnation zone, within which the Mach numbers decrease to about ~ 0.1, is investigated. Comparison with high-precision methods based on the solution of the Riemann problem is given.
Designing Applications for Data Collection and Sales of MSME Products to increase competitiveness in the web-based global market using the Analythical Hierarchy Process (AHP) method
Authors: Rahman Taufikur , Hujairi Ahmad Walid , Putra Deny Fardiansyah
Published: June 2021

Pelaku Usaha Mikro, Kecil dan Menengah (UMKM) di Indonesia menjadi faktor penting ketahanan ekonomi daerah bahkan nasional. Banyak pelaku UMKM yang memiliki produk tidak kalah bagus dari pruduk pabrikan bahkan luar negeri, peran serta pemerintah sebagai fasilitator dan katalisator dalam pengembangan produktifitas UMKM sangat penting, namun demikian banyak pelaku UMKM yang tidak mampu berkembang karena kurangnya perhatian pemerintah dalam hal pelatihan, kemasan yang baik, dukungan modal dan promosi serta sistem katalog produk online supaya mampu bersaing di skala nasional bahkan internasional. Bantuan yang diharapkan dari pemerintah ada kalanya tidak tepat sasaran karena tidak memiliki data pelaku UMKM yang berujung pada sistem pengambilan keputusan pemberian bantuan terhadap UMKM menjadi tidak tepat. Aplikasi pendataan dan penjualan web dibutuhkan untuk pengembangan pelaku UMKM, dengan metode Analythical Hierarchy Process (AHP) diharapkan mampu mendukung pengambilan keputusan bagi pemerintah untuk mencari pelaku UMKM yang akan di bantu sesuai dengan kebutuhan dan tidak salah sasaran. Metode AHP yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini dapat dijadikan sebagai alat bantu dalam menentukan rangking prioritas UMKM berdasarkan tingkat validitas konsistensi hirarki
 
Kata Kunci : Sistem Pengambilan Keputusan, , Analythical Hierarchy Process, Usaha Mikro Kecil dan Menengah
Development of Moodle-Based E-Learning in Basic Graphics Design Courses
Authors: Hasanah Fitria Nur , Utami Serla
Published: June 2021

This study aims to determine the development and feasibility of moodle-based e-learning in the basic subjects of graphic design class X Multimedia at SMK PGRI 2 Sidoarjo. This research was conducted at SMK PGRI 2 Sidoarjo with research subjects in class X Multimedia who received Basic Graphic Design subjects. In this study, the research method used was R&D (Research and Development) using a 4-D model consisting of 4 stages, namely: (1) Define; (2) Design; (3) Develop; (4) Disseminate. However, this study only applies three stages, namely the Define, Design and Develop stages, while the Disseminate stage is not carried out due to limited research time and the impact of the Covid-19 outbreak. Moodle-based e-learning has met the validity criteria by obtaining an average score from all aspects of the assessment, the media expert validator is 80% who are in the fit for use category with revisions, and 83% material expert validator is in the feasible category without any revisions so that based on the assessment of experts is appropriate and suitable for use as a learning medium in Basic Graphic Design subjects.
Android Based E-Module Development on Computer Learning and Basic Networks Class X TKJ
Authors: Kusumayanti Diah , Astuti Cindy Cahyaning
Published: June 2021

The existence of new subjects that are included in the 2013 curriculum in the computer and network engineering department makes teachers have to find teaching materials that can be used. Teachers still use modules in hardfile form which are less attractive so that they affect the teaching and learning process. The purpose of this study was to determine the development of android-based e-modules on computer and basic network subjects for class X TKJ SMK Ar-Roudhoh and the feasibility of developing android-based e-modules on computer and basic network subjects for class X TKJ SMK Ar-Roudhoh. The method used is the Research and Development method using the ADDIE development model. Data collection techniques are carried out by means of observation, questionnaires or questionnaires and instruments. The media validation test was carried out by a media expert lecturer from a PTI lecturer and one material expert teacher from a computer and basic network subject teacher. The instrument for assessing the feasibility of learning media in the form of a questionnaire was carried out by class XI TKJ students at SMK Ar-Roudhoh. The android-based interactive e-module has met the validity criteria by obtaining an average score from all aspects of the assessment, the media expert validator is 81.25% which is in the category worthy of use with revision, and 80% material expert validator in the category worthy of use with revision so that based on the judgment of the experts it is appropriate and suitable to be used as teaching material in Basic Computer and Networking subjects
Application of Creative Problem Solving Learning Model to Improve Learning Outcomes and Learning Activities on Simulation and Digital Communication
Authors: Ilmianah Nurfarida
Published: June 2021

The learning process at this time tends to decrease. This is caused by learning that is less interesting.   The Media and methods as a way to overcome monotonous learning need to be developed to improve the quality of  the student learning outcomes. This study aims to improve the activeness and learning outcomes through the implementation of the Creative Proplem Solving (CPS) learning model. "This study uses classroom action research (PTK) consisting of 4 stages,  the stages namely of planning, implementation, observation and reflection. With  the research  subjects XDPIB2 class students consisting of 34 students, 24 male students and 10 female students. The instrument used was an observation sheet of student learning activities, and a test of student learning outcomes. The results of this study indicate an increase in the average of student learning activities that continue to increase from cycle I to cycle III, it can be seen from the average learning activity of students who continue to increase starting from cycle I in the category of sufficient activity, amounting to 2.44. Cycle II was 3.38 with good category activity and Cycle III increased by 4.31 with very good category activity. Learning by using this CPS can improve student learning outcomes. based on observations on cycles I, II and III. From the three cycles, there was an increase in the average test of student learning outcomes in a row starting from cycle I, II and III was 60.65, 72.85 and 85.24 and only 1 student had a score below 75 of 34 students so that the application of the model CPS learning can improve the activities and learning outcomes of students of SMK Negeri 1 Sidoarjo
Dens invaginatus u odontoma dilatado, controversia de una definición. Una revisión de la literatura
Authors: Coria-Bello Mayra , Morales-González Francisco Javier
Published: June 2021

El diente invaginado (DI) es una alteración en el desarrollo del órgano dentario, el cual se produce a consecuencia de una invaginación del epitelio interno del órgano del esmalte, también conocido con otros nombres, entre ellos dens in dent. Tiene una serie de características clínicas, histológicas e imagenológicas debidamente descritas a través de la literatura. Su variante más extrema presenta una configuración muy compleja y, debido a la magnitud de la invaginación que presenta, se le denomina también odontoma dilatado, término que para algunos profesionales genera confusión. Este término ha sido mencionado como sinónimo tanto de DI como, en algún momento, de una nueva variante de odontomas, si bien existe una diferencia entre ambos tipos: uno es una anomalía del desarrollo y el otro, un crecimiento de aspecto hamartomatoso. Sin embargo, la literatura sigue utilizando ambos términos para definir al DI, por lo que es importante conocer el origen y tener claro que la controversia está basada en referencias históricas y de costumbre.
The kidnapping of mitochondrial function associated to the SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Soria-Castro Elizabeth , Soto María Elena , Verónica  , Rojas Gustavo , Perezpeña-Diazconti Mario , Críales-Vera Sergio A , Pech Linaloe Manzano , Pérez-Torres Israel
Published: June 2021

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection leads to multiorganic failure associated with a cytokine storm and septic shock. The virus evades the mitochondrial production of interferons through its N protein. From that moment on, SARS-CoV-2 hijacks the functions of this organelle. The aim of this study was to show how the virus kidnaps the mitochondrial machinery for its benefit and survival, altering serum parameters and leading to nitrosative stress (NSS). In a prospective cohort of 15 postmortem patients who died from COVID-19, six markers of mitochondrial function; COX II, COX IV, MnSOD, nitrotyrosine, Bcl-2 and caspase-9 were analyzed by the immune colloidal gold technique in samples from the lung, heart, kidney and liver. Biometric laboratory results from these patients showed alterations in hemoglobin, platelets, creatinine, urea nitrogen, glucose, C-reactive protein, albumin, D-dimer, ferritin, fibrinogen, Ca2+, K+, lactate and troponin. These changes were associated with alterations of the mitochondrial structure and function. The multiorganic dysfunction present in COVID-19 patients may be caused in part by damage to the mitochondria that results in an inflammatory state that contributes to the elevation of NSS. NSS activates the sepsis cascade and contributes to the increased mortality in COVID-19 patients.
Silver Nanoparticles Supported Graphitic Like Carbon Nitride for the Electrochemical Sensing of Nitrobenzene and its Derivatives
Authors: C Pandiyarajan , Perumal Rameshkumar , S Murugesan , M Selvaraj
Published: June 2021

Nitrobenzene (NB) is toxic even at low concentrations and hence, its contamination in the environment is a pervasive concern. The electrochemical techniques have emerged as rosy method to sense and degrade NB and graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) catalysts are found to be promising for this. In this study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) decorated N-[3-(trimethoxysilyl)propyl]ethylenediamine (EDAS) modified graphitic carbon nitride nanocomposites (EDAS/(g-C3N4-Ag)NC) having various silver concentrations are prepared through a facile method and applied for the electrochemical sensing of NB derivatives. UV-vis absorption edge at 430 nm together with a broad surface plasmon resonance (SPR) peak at 450 nm indicates the existence of AgNPs on the g-C3N4 nanosheets. FT-IR spectra endorse the presence of g-C3N4 nanosheets in the composite. The presence of Ag in EDAS/(g-C3N4-Ag)NC is confirmed by transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray analysis and cyclic voltammetry (CV). The nanocomposite prepared with 2 mM Ag+ shows superb electrocatalytic activity towards the reduction of nitrobenzene and its derivatives. Sensitivity of the modified electrode and limit of detection (LOD) for NB assessed by square wave voltammetry are found to be 0.594 A M− 1 cm− 2 and 2 µM, respectively, in the linear range of 5–50 µM.
Analysis of Ground Settlement Caused by Double-line TBM Tunnelling under Existing Building
Authors: Hao Dongxue , Zhu Renjun , Wu Ke , Chen Rong
Published: June 2021

TBM tunnelling is less used in the subway construction in prosperous city due to the limitation of the engineering geological conditions. The studies on the influence of the TBM construction on the existing buildings are also limited. Therefore, based on the engineering case of tunnel crossing existing building in the section of Haiboqiao ~ Xiaocunzhuang station of Qingdao Metro Line 1, the numerical model that simulates the construction process of TBM tunnelling in slightly weathered granite layer is established by three-dimensional finite difference software FLAC3D to analyze the influence of TBM tunneling on ground settlement. The comparisons of ground deformations obtained from FLAC3D and field monitoring in different construction stages of double-line tunnel have been made firstly to validate the numerical model. Then the ground settlement characteristics, differential settlement and the stress distribution of the existing building and the stress of segment structure have been analyzed. Ground settlement groove along the transverse and vertical sections occurs near the building and tunnels, and the settlement becomes smaller with the farther distance from them. The settlement curve on the cross section changes dynamically and is approximately V-shaped, and its width is about 5 ~ 6 times diameter of the tunnel. For the same cross section, the range of the settlement groove after tunnelling right line increases obviously compared with that after tunnelling left line (construction first), the settlement values also increase, and the symmetrical axis of the settlement curve is shifted to the right. This paper can provide important practical reference for relative construction engineering.
RNA-seq analysis of circRNA profiles in the lens of Crybb2 knockout mice
Authors: Gao Qian , Xu Hao , Duan Yuping , Cai Leiming , Nie Zhiwen , Zou Yaru , Li Qian
Published: June 2021

Background: Currently, there is little information on the expression profiles of circRNAs in the lens. βB2-crystallin (CRYBB2) is an abundant protein in the mammalian lens, and its abnormal expression contributes to the development of cataract. This study aimed at exploring how Crybb2 knockout could modulate the expression profiles of circRNAs in mouse lens. Methods and Results: We extracted total RNAs from the lens of wide-type (WT) and Crybb2 -/- mice and after depleted their rRNAs and broken the remaining RNAs, we reversely transcribed the RNAs into cDNAand sequenced them. Furthermore, we performed bioinformatics to identify and analyze the differentially expressed circRNAs and predicted their potential functions. We validated some differentially expressed circRNAs by quantitative RT-PCR. We employed RNA-seq to identify 49,494 circRNAs and compared to the WT lens, 149 circRNAs were upregulated and 172 downregulated in Crybb2 -/- mouse lens. With the top 300 miRNA-circRNA interaction pairs, we constructed a network of circRNA-miRNA interactions. Moreover, those differentially expressed circRNAs participated in various biological processes, such as lens fiber cell development, calcium channel complex, structural constituent of the lens. They were involved in several important pathways, such as the canonical Wnt signaling pathway. Quantitative RT-PCR validated some differently expressed circRNAs in the lens of Crybb2 -/- mice. Conclusions: Crybb2 knockout significantly modulated circRNA expression profiles in the lens of mice, which may help clarify the roles of circRNAs in age-related cataracts.
Fluid Transport and Storage in the Cascadia Forearc inferred from Magnetotelluric Data
Authors: Egbert Gary , Yang Bo , Bedrosian Paul A. , Key Kerry , Livelybrooks Dean , Schultz Adam , Kelbert Anna , Parris Blake
Published: June 2021

Subduction of hydrated oceanic lithosphere can carry water deep into the Earth, with important consequences for a range of tectonic and magmatic processes. Most fluid is released at relatively shallow depths in the forearc where it is thought to play a critical role in controlling mechanical properties and seismic behavior of the subduction megathrust. Here we present results from three-dimensional inversion of nearly 400 long-period magnetotelluric sites, including 64 offshore, to provide new insights into the distribution of fluids in the forearc of the Cascadia subduction zone. Our amphibious dataset provides new constraints on the geometry of the electrically resistive Siletzia terrane, a thickened section of oceanic crust accreted to North America in the Eocene, and the conductive accretionary complex, which is being underthrust all along the margin. Fluids accumulate, over time-scales likely exceeding 1 My, above the plate interface in metasedimentary units, while the mafic rocks of Siletzia remain dry. Fluids in metasediments tend to peak at fixed slab-depths of 17.5 and 30 km, suggesting control by metamorphic processes, but also concentrate around the edges of Siletzia, suggesting that this mafic block is impermeable, with dehydration fluids escaping up-dip along the megathrust. Our results demonstrate that lithology of the overriding crust can play a critical role in controlling fluid transport and sequestration in a subduction zone, with potentially important implications for mechanical properties.
Particulate matter of different sizes associated with acute lower respiratory infection outpatient visits in children: a counterfactual analysis in Guangzhou, China
Authors: Liang Zhenyu , Meng Qiong , Yang Qiaohuan , Chen Na , You Chuming
Published: June 2021

Background

The burden of lower respiratory infection is primarily borne by developing countries. However, the association between particulate matter of different sizes and acute lower respiratory infection (ALRI) outpatient visits in developing countries is less studied.
Methods

We obtained data on ALRI outpatient visits (N = 105,639) from a tertiary hospital in Guangzhou, China between 2013 and 2019. Over-dispersed generalized additive Poisson models were employed to evaluate the excess risk (ER) associated with particulate matter [inhalable particulate matter (PM10), coarse particulate matter (PMc), and fine particulate matter (PM2.5)]. Counterfactual analyses were used to examine the potential percent reduction of ALRI outpatient visits if the levels of air pollution were as low as those recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Results

There were 35,310 pneumonia, 68,218 bronchiolitis, and 2,111 asthma outpatient visits included. Each 10 µg/m3 increase of three-day moving averages of particulate matter was associated with significant ER [95% confidence interval (CI)] of outpatient visits of pneumonia [PM2.5: 3.71% (2.91%, 4.52%); PMc: 9.19% (6.94%, 11.49%); PM10: 4.36% (3.21%, 5.52%)], bronchiolitis [PM2.5: 3.21% (2.49%, 3.93%); PMc: 9.13% (7.09%, 11.21%); PM10: 3.12% (2.10%, 4.15%)], and asthma [PM2.5: 3.45% (1.18%, 5.78%); PMc: 11.69% (4.45%, 19.43%); PM10: 3.33% (0.26%, 6.49%)]. The association between particulate matter and pneumonia outpatient visits was stronger among male patients and in cold seasons. Counterfactual analyses suggested that PM2.5 was associated with the largest potential decline of ALRI outpatient visits [pneumonia: 3.89%, 95% CI: (3.24%, 5.52%); bronchiolitis: 4.35% (3.06%, 4.82%); asthma: 5.98% (1.92%, 10.37%)] if the air pollutants were reduced to the level of the reference guidelines.
Conclusion

Short-term exposure to PM2.5, PMc, and PM10 is associated with significant risk of ALRI outpatient visits, among which PM2.5 is associated with the highest potential decline in outpatient visits if it could be reduced to the WHO recommended level.
Influence of Thermal Stratification on Nitrogen and Phosphorus Profile Distribution in a Deep Subtropical Reservoir of China
Authors: Li Cunli , Zhang Ping , Zhu Guangwei , chen Chao , Wang Yucheng , Zhu Menyuan , Xu Hai , Jiang Cuiling , Zou Wei , Shi Pengcheng , Zheng Qing
Published: June 2021

Nitrogen and phosphorus stratification is crucial for water quality management and ecological processes in deep lakes and reservoirs and can be substantially affected by hydrological and meteorological processes in the catchment. To understand the response of nitrogen and phosphorus stratification when changing physical stratification processes is crucial important for water quality management in reservoirs using drinking water source. Detailed depth profiles of water temperature (WT), dissolved oxygen (DO), and other high-frequency sensors data were recorded daily in Qiandaohu reservoir, a large, deep subtropical reservoir in China, during 2017 to 2019. In addition, high-frequency measurement of total nitrogen (TN) and total phosphorus (TP) were undertaken once every three days, and the empirical estimation equations of TN and TP were established through multiple regression analysis. It was found that the nitrogen and phosphorus in water column was periodically stratify. Thermal structure stratification is the main driving force of nitrogen and phosphorus stratification. However, in the monthly scale, rainfall is the main factor to affect the stability of nitrogen and phosphorus vertical profile. This research indicated that physical processes play an important role on the biogeochemical process of nutrient in deep reservoirs. To evaluation the water quality or simulating the ecological processes of reservoirs, climatic and meteorological factors must be considered.
Using Evacuation Drills to Improve Tsunami Evacuation Preparedness and Resilience
Authors: Chen Chen , Mostafizi Alireza , Wang Haizhong , Cox Daniel , Cramer Lori
Published: June 2021

This paper presents the use of tsunami evacuation drills within a coastal community in the Cascadia Subduction Zone (CSZ) to better understand evacuation behaviors and thus to improve tsunami evacuation preparedness and resilience. Evacuees' spatial trajectory data were collected by Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) embedded mobile devices. Based on the empirical trajectory data, probability functions were employed to model people's walking speed during the evacuation drills. An Evacuation Hiking Function (EHF) was established to depict the speed-slope relationship and to inform evacuation modeling and planning. The regression analysis showed that evacuees' speed was significantly negatively associated with slope, time spent during evacuation, rough terrain surface, walking at night, and distance to destination. We also demonstrated the impacts of milling time on mortality rate based on participants' empirical evacuation behavior and a state-of-the-art CSZ tsunami inundation model. Post-drill surveys revealed the importance of the drill as an educational and assessment tool. The results of this study can be used for public education, evacuation plan assessment, and evacuation simulation models. The drill procedures, organization, and the use of technology in data collection provide evidence-driven solutions to tsunami preparedness and inspire the use of drills in other types of natural disasters such as wildfires, hurricanes, volcanoes, and flooding.
Using Multiple Isotopes to Identify Sources and Transports of Nitrate in Urban Residential Stormwater Runoff
Authors: Hu Qiyue , Zhu Song , Jin Zanfang , Wu Aijing , Chen Xiaoyu , Li Feili
Published: June 2021

Increased nitrogen (N) from urban stormwater runoff aggravates the deterioration of aquatic ecosystems as urbanisation develops. In this study, the sources and transport of nitrate (NO3−) in urban stormwater runoff were investigated by analysing different forms of N, water isotopes (δD-H2O and δ18O-H2O), and NO3− isotopes (δ15N-NO3− and δ18O-NO3−) in urban stormwater runoff in a residential area in Hangzhou, China. The results showed that the concentrations of total N and nitrate N in road runoff were higher than those in roof runoff. Moreover, high concentrations of dissolved organic N and particulate N in road runoff led to significantly different TN concentrations in road runoff (mean: 3.76 mg/L) and roof runoff (mean: 1.23 mg/L). The high δ18O-NO3− values (mean: 60 ± 13.1‰) indicated that atmospheric deposition was the predominant NO3− source in roof runoff, as confirmed by the Bayesian isotope mixing model (SIAR model), contributing 83.6–97.8% to NO3−. The SIAR model results demonstrated that atmospheric deposition (34.2–91.9%) and chemical fertilisers (6.27–54.3%) were the main NO3− sources for the road runoff. The proportional contributions from soil and organic N were smaller than other sources in both the road runoff and roof runoff. For the initial period, the NO3− contributions from atmospheric deposition and chemical fertilisers were higher and lower, respectively, than those in the middle and late periods in road runoff during storm events 3 and 4, while an opposite trend of road runoff in storm event 7 highlighted the influence of short antecedent dry weather period. It was suggested that reducing impervious areas and more effective management of fertiliser application in urban green land areas were essential to minimize the presence of N in urban aquatic ecosystems.
Self-Consistent Grain Size Evolution controls Strain Localization during Rifting
Authors: Ruh Jonas , Tokle Leif , Behr Whitney
Published: June 2021

Geodynamic numerical models often employ solely grain-size-independent dislocation creep to describe upper mantle dynamics. However, observations from nature and rock deformation experiments suggest that shear zones can transition to a grain-size-dependent creep mechanism due to dynamic grain size evolution, with important implications for the overall strength of plate boundaries. We apply a two-dimensional thermo-mechanical numerical model with a composite diffusion-dislocation creep rheology coupled to a dynamic grain size evolution model based on the paleowattmeter. Results indicate average olivine grain sizes of 3–12 cm for the upper mantle below the LAB, while in the lithosphere grain size ranges from 0.3–3 mm at the Moho to 6–15 cm at the LAB. Such a grain size distribution results in dislocation creep being the dominant deformation mechanism in the upper mantle. However, deformation-related grain size reduction below 100 μm activates diffusion creep along lithospheric-scale shear zones during rifting, affecting the overall strength of tectonic plate boundaries.
Rainfall Prediction by Artificial Neural Networks Trained using Different Climate Variables
Authors: Silva Mateus Alexandre da , Merlo Marina Neves , Thebaldi Michael Silveira , Ferreira Danton Diego , Schwerz Felipe , de Deus Fábio Ponciano
Published: June 2021

Predicting rainfall can prevent and mitigate damages caused by its deficit or excess, besides providing necessary tools for adequate planning for the use of water. This research aimed to predict the monthly rainfall, one month in advance, in four municipalities in the metropolitan region of Belo Horizonte, using artificial neural networks (ANN) trained with different climate variables, and to indicate the suitability of such variables as inputs to these models. The models were developed through the MATLAB® software version R2011a, using the NNTOOL toolbox. The ANN’s were trained by the multilayer perceptron architecture and the Feedforward and Back propagation algorithm, using two combinations of input data were used, with 2 and 6 variables, and one combination of input data with 3 of the 6 variables most correlated to observed rainfall from 1970 to 1999, to predict the rainfall from 2000 to 2009. The most correlated variables to the rainfall of the following month are the sequential number corresponding to the month, total rainfall and average compensated temperature, and the best performance was obtained with these variables. Furthermore, it was concluded that the performance of the models was satisfactory; however, they presented limitations for predicting months with high rainfall.
Effect of Berry-Based Supplements and Foods on cognitive function: A Systematic Review
Authors: Bonyadi Negar , Dolatkhah Neda , Salekzamani Yaghoub , Hashemian Maryam
Published: June 2021

In the current decade, a growing body of evidence proposes the correlation between diet and cognitive function or dementia in the ageing population. This study was designed to appraise discoveries from the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to confirm the effects of Berry-Based supplements or foods on cognitive function in older adults. PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science, Scopus, EMBASE, Google Scholar, and ProQuest as well as SID, Magiran, and Iranmedex electronic databases were explored for human interventional studies up to March 2021. A total of 259 studies were recognized from the primary database searches, and after eliminating the duplicates, 225 studies remained. Of these, 102 were disqualified after screening the title and abstracts of studies. The lasting 17 studies were evaluated in full text and 10 studies (which include 583 participants) encountered the eligibility criteria. Of the included studies, seven were randomized parallel-group (n = 7), two were crossover (n = 2) and one was the pilot study (n = 1). In total, ten articles were identified using freeze-dried blueberries (n = 3 studies), blueberry concentrate (n = 2), beverage (n = 3), capsule (n = 1), extract and powder (n = 1). These studies were directed in older people with no recognized cognitive impairment or mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The primary outcomes included episodic memory, long-term and short-term memory, working memory, executive function, psychomotor reaction time and attention. To our knowledge, this is the first systematic review of available clinical trials on the effects of berry-based supplements and foods on cognitive performances and brain perfusion parameters in elderlies with normal cognition or MCI. Existing evidence concludes that berry-based supplements and foods have beneficial effects on resting brain perfusion, cognitive function, memory performance, executive functioning, processing speed, and attention indices.