bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular Modelling of Resveratrol Derivatives with SIRT1 for the
Stimulation of Deacetylase Activity
Authors: Zamani Mozhdeh , Mokarram Pooneh , Jamshidi Mehdi , Siri Morvarid , Ghasemi Hadi
Published: October 2023

Background:

Resveratrol is a polyphenol that is found in plants and has been proposed
to have a potential therapeutic effect through the activation of SIRT1, which is a crucial
member of the mammalian NAD+ -dependent deacetylases. However, how its activity is enhanced
toward specific substrates by resveratrol derivatives has not been studied. This study
aimed to evaluate the types of interaction of resveratrol and its derivatives with SIRT1 as the
target protein, as well as to find out the best ligand with the strangest interaction with SIRT1.

Materials and Methods:

In this study, we employed the extensive molecular docking analysis
using AutoDock Vina to comparatively evaluate the interactions of resveratrol derivatives (22
molecules from the ZINC database) as ligands with SIRT1 (PDB ID: 5BTR) as a receptor. The
ChemDraw and Chem3D tools were used to prepare 3D structures of all ligands and energetically
minimize them by the MM2 force field.

Results:

The molecular docking and visualizations showed that conformational change in
resveratrol derivatives significantly influenced the parameter for docking results. Several types
of interactions, including conventional hydrogen bonds, carbon-hydrogen bonds, Pi-donor hydrogen
bonds, and Pi-Alkyl, were found via docking analysis of resveratrol derivatives and
SIRT1 receptors. The possible activation effect of resveratrol 4'-(6-galloylglucoside) with ZINC
ID: ZINC230079516 with higher binding energy score (-46.8608 kJ/mol) to the catalytic domain
(CD) of SIRT1 was achieved at the maximum value for SIRT1, as compared to resveratrol
and its other derivatives.

Conclusion:

Finally, resveratrol 4'-(6-galloylglucoside), as a derivative for resveratrol, has stably
interacted with the CD of SIRT1 and might be a potential effective activator for SIRT1.
Analytical Methods for Triamcinolone Acetonide: An Exploratory
Literature Review
Authors: Gulati Diksha , Saini Aakriti , Dhingra Ashwani K.
Published: October 2023

An artificial glucocorticoid with anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties is triamcinolone acetonide. It is abundantly used to treat redness, itching, and many other skin condi-tions like itching and psoriasis. As a result, there are several different triamcinolone acetonide for-mulations available. Each of these formulations must go through the correct phases of development and validation in order to identify the medications and other additives for safer use. This review article is just a representation of all the methods reported for the development and validation of triamcinolone acetonide in pure form to break down contaminants, in addition to other medications, and even in biological samples. The International Council for Harmonization (ICH) technical re-quirements for human use suggestions, which include a number of analytical parameters, have been followed in the validation of all the procedures. The present study also clarified the most significant drug combination.
Obesity Phenotypes and Dental Calculus in Young Adults: CHIEF Oral
Health Study
Authors: Liu Wei-Nung , Huang Ren-Yeong , Cheng Wan-Chien , Wang Hui-Shang , Huang Chen-Ming , Chen Han-Hsing , Tsai Kun-Zhe , Lin Gen-Min
Published: October 2023

Aim:

The study aimed to examine the association of obesity phenotypes with dental
calculus.

Background:

Obesity has been recognized as a risk factor for kidney and gallbladder stones
formation and periodontitis.

Objective:

We have investigated the association between obesity, metabolic risk factors, and
dental calculus, which is a sequela following periodontitis

Methods:

This study included 5,281 military members, aged 19–45 years, without antihypertensive
medications in Taiwan. Obesity was defined as body mass index ≥27.5 kg/m2, and
metabolic syndrome (MetS) was defined according to the modified ATP III criteria. Supragingival
calculus in any teeth, except for impacted teeth and the third molar, was the outcome of
interest. Multiple linear regression analysis with adjustments for age, sex, toxic substance use,
brushing teeth frequency, and blood leukocyte counts, was used to determine the association of
obesity with dental calculus numbers. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to assess
the association between obesity with or without MetS and the presence of any dental calculus.

Results:

BMI was positively correlated to dental calculus numbers [β and confidence intervals
(CI) = 0.023 (0.014, 0.032)]. Compared to the obesity(-)/MetS(-) group, there were dosedependent
associations for the obesity(-)/MetS(+), obesity(+)/MetS(-), and obesity(+)/MetS(+)
groups with the presence of any dental calculus [odds ratios (ORs): 1.08 (0.76, 1.53), 1.31 (1.08,
1.58), and 1.51 (1.20, 1.90), respectively]. Of the metabolic risk factors, abdominal obesity and
hypertension were independently associated with dental calculus [ORs: 1.33 (1.13, 1.55) and
1.30 (1.11, 1.52), respectively].

Conclusion:

This study suggests general obesity as an independent risk factor for dental calculus
formation, and MetS, particularly the components of abdominal obesity, and hypertension
may also increase the prevalence of dental calculus. Diet control and regular exercise might be
preventive measures for the development of both obesity and dental calculus.
Monkey Pox: Virology, Epidemiology, Vaccines, and Therapeutic
Approaches
Authors: Geevarghese Abin V.
Published: October 2023

The monkeypox virus, which was historically common in West and Central Africa,
is the source of the zoonotic disease known as monkeypox. Instances, however, have recently
been confirmed in a few non-endemic nations outside of Africa. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the WHO labeled the current monkeypox epidemic a public health emergency of global
concern on July 23, 2022. The international society may be in jeopardy due to the rapidly increasing number of confirmed cases. Current epidemiological statistics indicate that the high
frequency of transmission from person to person might result in additional epidemics, especially
among guys who have sex with males. Despite certain therapeutic benefits of already prescribed
pharmaceuticals, there is an urgent need for the creation of antiviral therapies and vaccinations
to ward off the monkeypox virus. We offer pertinent information to help people understand the
monkeypox virus and help medical professionals in stopping the spread of the monkeypox virus.
AI-based Controllers for a Z-Axis Micro Precision Positioning System
Authors: Abdi Ali
Published: October 2023

Background:

Stick-slip actuators are commonly used in Nano/Micro precision positioning
systems, but their control is challenging due to factors like nonlinear friction, PEA hysteresis, and uncertainty. Researchers have made efforts to address these challenges and documented their findings in
articles and patents.

Methods:

This study introduces a novel vertical stick-slip actuator and proposes two different methods
for overcoming the challenges associated with controlling it. The first method involves training an inverse model of the actuator using a supervised machine-learning algorithm to determine the optimal
number of signals and peak voltage required for the saw-tooth signals in an open-loop controller. The
second method is a closed-loop controller that utilizes the maximum allowable peak voltage unless the
positioning error is smaller than the maximum step size. At this point, the neural network-based controller adjusts the peak voltage to a lower value, ensuring that the actuator reaches the desired position
at the end of the final signal.

Results:

According to the results, both controllers perform effectively. The open-loop and closed-loop
controllers exhibit a relative error of 1.59% and 0.4%, respectively, for an arbitrary desired position in
the final position.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the suggested controllers offer a practical solution to the controlling challenges faced by stick-slip positioners, which are essential in the advancement of Nano/Micro sciences.
Standardization of Herbal Medicines and the Guidelines for the
Standardization
Authors: Ahire Tejas , Gosavi Seema , Sonawane Saurabh , Chaudhari Riya , Bornare Pratiksha
Published: October 2023

The use of medicinal plants for their therapeutic benefits is immemorial, leading to their
global acceptability. The pharmaceutical market is significantly influenced by medicinal plants and
herbal preparations as a source for pharmaceutical manufacturing procedures. Over the past few
decades, the mass production of herbal preparations at an industrial scale as well as the adulteration
of raw material and final products have raised serious concerns over its safety, purity, and efficacy.
Standardization of medicinal plants and their preparations as per the current WHO guidelines is of
prime importance to overcome quality issues. The guidelines aim at the identification of potentially
hazardous contaminants and assessing the quality of the herbal material by various qualitative and
quantitative means. Various methodologies, techniques, and procedures are prescribed in the guidelines for maintaining the overall quality of the finished herbal product. However, due to a lack of
research data and technical constraints many of the accepted limits in the guidelines are a reference
and extrapolation of research done in food science. Standardization is a crucial part of the quality
assurance program so as to set proper norms for the manufacture of quality products thus contributing to the benefit of mankind. The current review aims at highlighting various standardization
parameters and guidelines for the same.
A Narrative Review on Effects of Napier Grass Oxalate Accumulation on
Ruminant Animals
Authors: Choudhury Md. Panir , Hossain S. M. Jahangir , Akter Shahrina , Islam Md. Tasmirul , Khadija-Tut-Tahira
Published: October 2023

Napier grass is a popular ruminant feed due to its nutritional value and ease of propagation.
Besides these promising characteristics, Napier grass poisoning has been reported in livestock,
and oxalate has been identified as a primary toxin. Oxalate is an antinutrient content that prevents
absorption of minerals from plants while grazing by animals. Less than 2.0% of ruminants' soluble
oxalate of dry matter (DM) consumption is safe, while 0.5% is safe for non-ruminants. Oxalate
buildup varies with nitrogen sources and dosages. This review discusses the impacts of external and
internal elements, including fodder species/variety, fodder portions, seasonal change, nitrogen fertilization,
clipping interval, and oxalate concentration on grazing animals and management measures
to reduce fodder oxalate. However, further research is needed to understand how oxalate in different
species interacts with grazing animals. For developing oxalate-free fodder genotypes, molecular
techniques, including identification of CRISPR/Cas9, QTLs, and functional genomics, may be helpful.
Genomic methods to improve Napier grass employing precision phenotyping, genotyping, and
molecular technology have also been discussed in this article. We have discussed the metabolic pathway,
digestion in ruminant animals, factors affecting oxalate content, genetic and molecular diversity,
oxalate impact and poisoning, disease to Napier grass and future prospects. This may be helpful
for the researchers working on ruminant animals for their feeds and fodder.
Examining efl teachers’ knowledge, attitudes and perceived practices of differentiated instruction in English classrooms
Authors: Endeshaw Aragaw Delele
Published: October 2023

The predominant intention of this study turned into to investigate English language teachers' knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of differentiated guidance in English training at some decided on trendy secondary colleges in Ethiopia's Amhara Region. A combined studies layout turned into used to perform this purpose. Using a scientific sampling technique, forty five grade 9 English language teachers from Dangila, Chagni, Tilili, BahirDar, and Gondar trendy secondary colleges had been selected as participants. Data turned into accumulated via interviews, questionnaires, and observation. The statistics found out that English language instructors had a excessive information of differentiated education, however little exercise with it. Teachers had a poor mindset closer to differentiated education, consistent with the findings. Furthermore, big elegance sizes, time constraints, a loss of determination and motivation because of inadequate remuneration, activity disappointment because of unmotivated college students had been all noted as deterrents to DI implementation in EFL lecture rooms at colleges. Finally, after thinking about the findings, pointers had been made.
Argumentation and mathematical communication in textbooks for the eighth grade of primary education
Authors: Collyer-Sáez Sebastián , Castro-Navarro Emilio , Díaz-Levicoy Danilo
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this article is to characterise the questions that focus on the ability to argue and communicate in textbooks, from the curricular perspective and the Krummheuer’s model. For this, we carried out a content analysis by applying two checklists to the students' texts, the teacher's teaching guide, and the students' workbook for the 8th grade of basic school in Chile. After the analysis of 50 activities, we found that the questions that focus on the ability to argue and communicate lack collaborative work. This means the students assume a passive role within the work involving skill, since they work alone, without the necessary in-teraction to generate the development of the skill. It is also evident that the Krummheuer’s model complies with developing this skill, however, elements of the Toulmin Model -qualifiers and rebuttal- appear, which makes the process and work with this skill more complex and complete than is believed. Finally, it is necessary to alter the teaching guide, since it does not develop guide-lines on how teachers should work with the argue and communicate skills in the classroom.
Investigating students’ perceptions of dificulty in argumentative writing: a study in gender perspective
Authors: Juhana Juhana , Sundari Hanna , Pratiwi Widya Rizky
Published: October 2023

Writing difficulty and constraints have gained much attention and research locally and overseas. However, the writing difficulty EFL male and female writers perceived in developing argumentative essays was still little in literature. To fill the void, this concurrent mixed method study aimed to scrutinize the variation and frequency and explore the perceptions of being argumentative writers among 113 EFL university students in Jakarta, Indonesia. Through a survey and the framework of interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA), online questionnaires were distributed, and the interviews were conducted concurrently. The findings illustrated that EFL male and female writers experience similar major difficulties, including argumentative text genre, language use, difficulty in source/reference, problems in the cognitive process, and other technical challenges. Further, to be argumentative writers, female writers tend to feel various combinations of feelings and apply more learning strategies. In contrast, male writers express more on the cognitive process of essay completion. However, either male or female writers become more aware of their weaknesses in the English language, such as reading skills.
Factors influencing assessment in higher education: Empirical evidence from physical education and fitness compulsory courses in Indonesia
Authors: Kristiyandaru Advendi , Prakoso Bayu Budi , Fithroni Hijrin , Primanata Dani , Hartati Sasminta Christina Yuli , Kartiko Dwi Cahyo
Published: October 2023

The present study delves into the multifarious factors that underpin students' learning assessment in higher education. Through the utilisation of an exploratory sequential mixed methods design, the researchers scrutinise the evaluation of 5,564 students by 23 lecturers, taking into consideration 9 characteristics. To that end, ANOVA and T-test are employed to analyse the mandatory course, and three lecturers who embody distinct criteria are interviewed, and their responses are subjected to a thematic analysis. The results indicate that assessment results are significantly different based on lecturers' working experience (teaching experience [F= 20.1, p= 0.000] and age [F= 48.6, p= 0.000]), academic background (department [F= 33.8, p= 0.000] and skills [F= 30.17, p= 0.000]), and teaching load (credit unit (credit unit) [F= 48.7, p= 0.000], number of classes taught [F= 61.4, p= 0.000] and teaching partners [F= 79.3, p=0.000]). Meanwhile, there is no difference in assessment results based on lecturers' qualifications (certificates [t= -0.587, p= 0.557] and latest degree [F= 2.56, p= 0.074]). The qualitative data reveals that four crucial factors - idealism, mindset, grading standard, and perspective - account for the variance observed in compulsory courses. The study's results underscore the need for universities to devise pedagogical strategies based on lecturers' attributes, as these factors bear a direct impact on the attainment of the desired graduate profiles as reflected in students' academic performance in specific courses.
Instrument development to measure the use of hologram-based learning media
Authors: Vebrianto Rian , Yusriadi M , Yuliastrin Adisti
Published: October 2023

Hologram-based learning media is one of the alternative learning media that can be used as educational media, increasing student motivation and interest in learning and optimizing the division of work in groups. This media was developed to avoid abstract thinking, a negative impression that has been allowed to occur since they were young, which, in the end, until adulthood, the negative image is dull and makes students uninterested in things. This research was included as developmental research or RnD. Studies related to developing instruments to measure the use of hologram-based learning media as educational media in elementary schools still need to be completed.  The research model used in this study was 4D. The data was collected with an offline questionnaire, and then it was analyzed using quantitative data analysis using the SPSS version 23 for Windows program. The results of this study have proven that: (1) The evaluation instruments construction and development for the use of hologram-based learning media for students in this study were carried out using a theoretical development model to test seven research constructs, namely (a) didactic components, (b) construction of hologram-based learning media, (c) technical hologram-based learning media, (d) ease of use, (e) efficiency of hologram-based learning media, (f) benefits, and (g) interest; (2) The results of construct validity and reliability testing show that the validity of the evaluation instrument has met the valid criteria because the value of r-count r-table (r-count 0.254); and (3) The reliability of the evaluation instrument which has been compiled and developed in this study has also met the high category as indicated by the magnitude of the Cronbach alpha reliability coefficient of 0.980. This indicates that the instrument developed meets the requirements for measuring the use of hologram-based learning media for students.
Sundanese ethnoastronomy-based astronomy bulletin as an alternative to astronomy learning: A feasibility test
Authors: Husna Salsabila , Diyana Tsania Nur
Published: October 2023

This study aims to determine the feasibility of independently developing a Sundanese ethnoastronomy-based astronomy bulletin as an alternative astronomical learning media. This research uses the ADDIE method, which consists of five stages, namely (1) Analysis, (2) Design, (3) Development, (4) Implementation (5)  Evaluation. However, this research only reached the determination of the feasibility of the bulletin, so the implementation and evaluation stages still needed to be carried out. The subjects of this study were one physics education lecturer and one physics teacher. The results of the feasibility test on the three indicators include (1) content validation tests obtained an average value of 81.25%, (2) language validation tests obtained an average value of 81.25%, and (3) presentation validation tests obtained a value of 80%, and the overall indicators showed reliable results. Therefore, the bulletin learning media developed is feasible and can be used as an alternative learning media for Sundanese ethnoastronomy-based astronomy.
An Exposure-Based Video Game (Dr. Zoo) to Reduce Needle Phobia in Children Aged 3 to 6 Years: Development and Mixed Methods Pilot Study
Authors: Healy Pat , Lu Celine , Silk Jennifer S , Lindhiem Oliver , Harper Reagan , Viswanathan Abhishek , Babichenko Dmitriy
Published: October 2023

Background

Needle phobia, which affects 19% of children aged 4 to 6 years, prevents many children from receiving necessary or preventive medical treatments. Digital interventions have been made to target needle phobia but currently rely on distraction rather than evidence-based exposure.

Objective

We designed and evaluated a serious exposure-based mobile game called Dr. Zoo to reduce the fear of needles in children aged 3 to 6 years, where players administered shots to cartoon animals.

Methods

We conducted a mixed methods study with 30 parents (mean age 35.87, SD 4.39 years) and their 36 children (mean age 4.44, SD 1.11 years) who played the game for 5 days leading to a scheduled appointment that included an injection (eg, influenza vaccination). After the study, parents completed exit surveys and participated in semistructured interviews to evaluate ease of use, acceptability, and preliminary effectiveness of the game and to provide insights on their experience with the game to inform future developments. Interview transcripts were analyzed by 3 independent coders following an open coding process and subsequently coded and discussed to reach consensus.

Results

Parents rated their child’s difficulty in completing the game as very low on average (scale 1-5; mean 1.76, SD 0.82) and were highly likely to recommend Dr. Zoo to other parents (scale 1-5; mean 4.41, SD 0.87), suggesting Dr. Zoo’s strong ease of use and high acceptability. In the exit survey, parents rated their child’s fear as significantly lower after participating in the study (scale 1-5; mean 3.09, SD 1.17) compared with that before participating (scale 1-5; mean 4.37, SD 0.81; z score=−4.638; P<.001). Furthermore, 74% (26/35) of the parents reported that the game had a positive impact on their child’s fear or perception of needles (only 2 parents reported a negative impact). Qualitative analysis of the interview transcripts revealed potentially important features of the game in this positive impact, such as the game’s interactive design, as observed in 69% (24/35) of our participants.

Conclusions

The results suggest that an evidence-based serious mobile game can be an easy-to-use, acceptable, and potentially effective intervention for changing young children’s fear and perceptions of needles. Leveraging digital interventions may be a potential solution to needle anxiety as a public health concern.
An Exposure-Based Video Game (Dr. Zoo) to Reduce Needle Phobia in Children Aged 3 to 6 Years: Development and Mixed Methods Pilot Study (Preprint)
Authors: Healy Pat , Lu Celine , Silk Jennifer S , Lindhiem Oliver , Harper Reagan , Viswanathan Abhishek , Babichenko Dmitriy
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

Needle phobia, which affects 19% of children aged 4 to 6 years, prevents many children from receiving necessary or preventive medical treatments. Digital interventions have been made to target needle phobia but currently rely on distraction rather than evidence-based exposure.

OBJECTIVE

We designed and evaluated a serious exposure-based mobile game called Dr. Zoo to reduce the fear of needles in children aged 3 to 6 years, where players administered shots to cartoon animals.

METHODS

We conducted a mixed methods study with 30 parents (mean age 35.87, SD 4.39 years) and their 36 children (mean age 4.44, SD 1.11 years) who played the game for 5 days leading to a scheduled appointment that included an injection (eg, influenza vaccination). After the study, parents completed exit surveys and participated in semistructured interviews to evaluate ease of use, acceptability, and preliminary effectiveness of the game and to provide insights on their experience with the game to inform future developments. Interview transcripts were analyzed by 3 independent coders following an open coding process and subsequently coded and discussed to reach consensus.

RESULTS

Parents rated their child’s difficulty in completing the game as very low on average (scale 1-5; mean 1.76, SD 0.82) and were highly likely to recommend Dr. Zoo to other parents (scale 1-5; mean 4.41, SD 0.87), suggesting Dr. Zoo’s strong ease of use and high acceptability. In the exit survey, parents rated their child’s fear as significantly lower after participating in the study (scale 1-5; mean 3.09, SD 1.17) compared with that before participating (scale 1-5; mean 4.37, SD 0.81; z score=−4.638; P<.001). Furthermore, 74% (26/35) of the parents reported that the game had a positive impact on their child’s fear or perception of needles (only 2 parents reported a negative impact). Qualitative analysis of the interview transcripts revealed potentially important features of the game in this positive impact, such as the game’s interactive design, as observed in 69% (24/35) of our participants.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest that an evidence-based serious mobile game can be an easy-to-use, acceptable, and potentially effective intervention for changing young children’s fear and perceptions of needles. Leveraging digital interventions may be a potential solution to needle anxiety as a public health concern.
Real-world evaluation of a Hybrid Children’s and Young Person’s Weight Management Service to families in Slough (Preprint)
Authors: Summers Charlotte , Panesar Arjun , Taylor Alisdair J. G. , Kaura Amit
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

Childhood obesity constitutes a significant public health issue worldwide. Slough, a region in the United Kingdom, harbours some of the most socioeconomically deprived areas, resulting in a disproportionately higher prevalence of overweight and obesity. Notably, only 20% of residents report being active. This study investigated the demographics and outcomes of Children and Young People (CYP) and families from Slough who self-referred to a precision digital health tool designed to manage CYP’s weight.

OBJECTIVE

The study focuses on a pilot programme of an evidence-informed CYP lifestyle and weight management service for children aged 5-12 years. It first aims to understand the demographics and clinical characteristics of residents in Slough, a diverse area with varying levels of deprivation. Subsequently, the study assesses the effectiveness and acceptability of this program in reducing body weight and BMI among its participants.

METHODS

Employing a single-arm intervention design, parents/guardians of children identified as obese were introduced to a precision health digital tool (Gro Health CYP). This tool stimulates manageable behavioural changes by offering evidence-based education, endorsing behavioural change activities, arranging weekly virtual meetups, providing community support, tracking health progress, and generating data-driven insights. Comparison participants received only email communication requesting data. Participant demographics and health data were captured at baseline and re-evaluated at 12- and 26-week intervals.

RESULTS

One-hundred and sixty-seven families downloaded the Gro Health app and created an account. The average age of children involved was 9.5 years, BMI of 21.2 kg/m2, with 42% female and 71% identifying as having a white ethnicity. Seventy-five per cent (125/167) of participating families reported reduced weight outcomes at 26 weeks with an average weight loss of 3.4 ± 3% for families that completed the intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

The Gro Health app, a precision digital health tool tailored to deliver a Children’s and Young Person’s Weight Management Programme was favourably received by families with obese children. This intervention demonstrated potential to promote clinically relevant weight loss, underscoring the importance of innovative digital solutions in addressing the public health crisis of childhood obesity.
Improvements in Digestive Symptoms After Participation in an App-Based Chronic Digestive Disease Management Program: Prospective Cohort Evaluation (Preprint)
Authors: Bravata Dena , Liu Hau , Colosimo Meghan M. , Bullock Alexander C , Commons Erin , Pimentel Mark
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

Gastrointestinal (GI) conditions account for 105 million ambulatory care visits, 14 million hospital admissions, 236,000 deaths, and $142 billion in total costs in the U.S. annually. Historically, less than 20% of adults with chronic GI symptoms have accessed care to evaluate or manage their symptoms.

OBJECTIVE

To characterize, first, whether adults with chronic GI symptoms would use an app for symptom monitoring and, second, the effects of participation in a digitally-delivered chronic care program that included longitudinal symptom tracking, personalized medical nutrition therapy, health coaching, and targeted education on GI symptom severity.

METHODS

We evaluated adult participants on the platform at baseline and between 30 and 90 days post-registration. Participants were asked to score nine GI symptoms (e.g., abdominal pain, constipation, bloating, diarrhea) on a scale of 0 (no symptoms) to 4 (very severe symptoms). We calculated changes in GI symptoms from baseline to the end of the intervention.

RESULTS

1778 ethnically and socially diverse participants enrolled: 75% identified as female, 67% as White, 11% as Asian or Pacific Islander, 5.7% as Hispanic, 7% Black, and 7% as being of multiple races. Mean age was 43.0 years (SD 11.5 years). Among those with a GI diagnosis, their most common GI conditions were irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) (17.2%), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or acid reflux (16.8%), and lactose intolerance (6.4%). Participants of all races reported statistically significant improvements in all nine symptoms between baseline and the end of the intervention (P<.05) starting as early as day 30 post registration. At baseline, 79.3% of participants reported moderate, severe, or very severe GI symptom severity for at least one symptom. In contrast, only 45.4% of participants reported moderate or severe symptoms at the end of the intervention and no one reported very severe symptoms. Participants who were scheduled with their care team reported greater symptom improvement than those who were not scheduled (P<.001). Participants with Crohn’s Disease (P=.004), gastroparesis (P=.03), GERD (P=.02), and IBS (P<.001) had statistically significant changes in total symptom score at the end of the intervention. Participants reported feeling greater control of their health (83%), better able to manage their digestive symptoms (83%), increased happiness (76%), and greater productivity at work (56%).

CONCLUSIONS

Demographically diverse participants enrolled in a digital digestive chronic care program used an app for symptom tracking and showed a significant reduction in digestive symptom severity out to 90 days compared to baseline. Care that incorporated GI dietitians and health coaches was associated with higher rates of symptom reduction.
Discrimination of Biodiesel-Diesel of B7 and B10 by Infrared Spectroscopy with Dendogram
Authors: Abdull Manap Mohd Rashidi , Jusoh Ahmad Fadly , Chuin Lim Xiang , Muhamad Zulkifli Nur Diana Farhana , Kholili Qhurratul Aina , Abu Hasan Fatin , Mohd Effendy Danish Aiman Akmal , Azis Ramizah
Published: October 2023

Spectroscopists face an ongoing challenge in identifying fuel spectra due to a wide range of fuel formulations and the increasing abuse of biodiesel-diesel blends. In Malaysia, a new type of biodiesel-diesel blend known as B7 and B10 has been introduced, which requires rapid and reliable discrimination methods. However, current identification methods are costly and time-consuming. To overcome this issue, a spectroscopy study was conducted using a portable Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometer to identify biodiesel-diesel blends. The study found that direct identification using spectral libraries was reliable in identifying complex samples but unable to differentiate B7 and B10 due to the libraries' focus on hydrocarbons rather than esters. Instead, FTIR spectroscopy provided unique spectral peaks for each blend. Spectral range influences the discrimination, and the truncated region 1697–1777 and 1164–1224 cm−1 was shown to be reliable for discriminating the B7 and B10. The study concluded that a combination of algorithms, libraries, and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) in FTIR spectroscopy could effectively differentiate the blends. The primary objective was to differentiate B7 and B10 by analyzing liquid samples collected in Malaysia using HCA and IR spectroscopies. FTIR spectroscopy provides molecular-specific vibrational signals and is proven as a rapid identification method.
Deep Eutectic Solvent (DES) Based on Choline Chloride and Mono-, Di-, Poly-Ethylene Glycol as KI/I2 Electrolyte Solvents on DSSC Devices
Authors: Adhitya Adhitya , Rahmalia Winda , Syahbanu Intan , Gusrizal Gusrizal , Adhitiyawarman Adhitiyawarman
Published: October 2023

Deep eutectic solvent (DES) has high viscosity and electrical conductivity values, so it can be used as an electrolyte solvent in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). This research was conducted to produce DES based on choline chloride (ChCl) and ethylene glycol (EG), diethylene glycol, and polyethylene glycol-400, which were then used as KI/I2 couple redox electrolyte solvent to improve the DSSC performance. The synthesis was carried out by mixing each component in several variations of the mole fraction of ChCl (xCHCl) at 80 °C for 15 min, and then was characterized by their pH, freezing point, density, viscosity, and electrical conductivity. A mixture that meets the criteria as a eutectic solvent and has a freezing point of less than −18 °C with the highest electrical conductivity value is DES ChCl:EG with xChCl 0.3 and xChCl 0.4. Both DESs were then used as a solvent for KI/I2, combined with acetonitrile in various compositions. The electrolyte with the highest electrical conductivity value was KI/I2 dissolved in ChCl:EG with xChCl 0.3 solvent 6:4 v/v, and then employed in DSSC device. The best performance of DSSC (Isc= 0.155 mA/cm2; Voc=0.465 V; Pmax= 0.719 W; ηmax= 0.072%) was produced under a light intensity of 0.1 W/cm2.
Development of a Rapid and Sensitive Probe for Colorimetric Detection of Ni2+ Ion in Water Sample by β-Cyclodextrin Stabilized Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Nurkhaliza Farrah , Fathoni Ahmad , Prastya Muhammad Eka , Tachrim Zetryana Puteri , Aji Abdul , Andreani Agustina Sus
Published: October 2023

A rapid and selective colorimetric detection of Ni2+ was developed using silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) with β-cyclodextrin (β-CDs) as reducing and stabilizing agents. Characterization was assessed by spectrophotometer UV-vis, Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and particle size analyzer (PSA). The AgNPs-β-CDs were relatively stable after being stored for 5 months. The addition of Ni2+ to the AgNPs-β-CDs shifted the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) band at 409 nm. Synthesized AgNPs-β-CDs had a spherical shape and an average size of 25.07 ± 0.66 nm (analyzed by TEM) and 33.63 ± 0.25 nm, as confirmed by PSA. AgNPs-β-CDs as colorimetric sensors for Ni2+ ions had a good linear calibration curve at 409 nm with the R2 value of 0.9993. The limit of detection (LoD) was found to be 33.30 ppb, while the limit of quantification (LoQ) was 111.0 ppb. This sensor had been applied to a seawater sample from Ancol Beach, North Jakarta, Indonesia and it exhibited good precision and accuracy. In this work, β-CDs-synthesized AgNPs were able to detect Ni2+ ions and were beneficial as an alternative method for Ni2+ screening in environmental samples.
Adsorption of Malachite Green Oxalate Dye by CuCo2O4/MgO Spinel Oxide Nanocomposite
Authors: Mgheer Tariq Hussein , Kadhim Ali Abdulraheem , Hussein Zainab Abdalameer , Kadhim Zaid Kaheel , Al-Da’amy Muneer Abdul Aly , Atiyah Abbas Jassim , Kadhim Salih Hadi , Abbas Suma Jaafar
Published: October 2023

The current study involves a synthesis of a composite of copper oxide and cobalt oxide as a spinel oxide load over magnesium oxide. This synthesis of nanocomposite material was from nitrate salts of the corresponding metals by co-precipitation method, while it was investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction techniques (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and the activity of these materials was estimated by appreciated adsorption of malachite green oxalate (MGO) dye from its aqueous solution. Adsorption isotherm was investigated using both Freundlich and Langmuir adsorption isotherms. While the results of the spectrophotometric studies showed that the composition of synthesized supported oxides at 450 °C was spinel type with nanoparticle size, and the optimum removal efficiency was around 98% for the adsorption of MGO dye over spinel nanocomposite surface achieved by using a dye concentration of 5 ppm, a mass of adsorbent surface of 5 mg, in terms of the adsorption model's isotherms the obtained results showed that the removal of MGO dye by the surface of this material was more fitted with the Freundlich models' adsorption.
Propylamine Silica-Titania Hybrid Material Modified with Ni(II) as the Catalyst for Benzyl Alcohol to Benzaldehyde Conversion
Authors: Agustiningsih Dewi , Nuryono Nuryono , Santosa Sri Juari , Kunarti Eko Sri
Published: October 2023

SiO2-TiO2@propylamine-Ni(II) as the catalyst for the benzyl alcohol oxidation has been synthesized by utilizing rice husk ash as the SiO2 source. This research was started by extracting SiO2 from rice husk ash and continued by synthesizing the SiO2-TiO2 composite using titanium(IV) tetraisopropoxide (TTIP) as TiO2 precursor and PEG-40 as template. The composite functionalization and metal modification were carried out by adding (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (APTES) as the source of propylamine linker and impregnating NiCl2·6H2O as the nickel precursor, respectively. The catalysts were synthesized by varying the ratios between each component within the material. The prepared materials were then characterized using ATR-IR, XRD, XRF, PSA, SAA, AAS, SEM-EDX, HR-TEM, and TGA. The catalyst activity was investigated by applying it to the oxidation reaction of benzyl alcohol to benzaldehyde with H2O2 as the oxidizing agent under sonication system. The obtained products were then analyzed by using GC-MS to quantify the success of the reaction. All characterizations performed in this research generally indicate the success in the synthesis of SiO2-TiO2@propylamine-Ni(II) materials. Under the same condition including at room temperature, 1 h reaction time, and sonication system, the optimal oxidation reaction of benzyl alcohol was reached when SiO2-TiO2@propylamine-Ni(II)5 was used as the catalyst in 98.52% yield.
Synthesis of Cellulose Acetate from Screw Pine (Pandanus tectorius) Leaves for Enhancing Water Permeability and Fouling Resistance of PVDF Membrane
Authors: Trisnawati Elyna Wahyu , Suryanti Venty , Pramono Edi , Cahyani Indri Sri , Safriyani Diah
Published: October 2023

Cellulose derivatives from natural resources continuously develop to find the best hydrophobic polymer-based membrane technology performance. This study was conducted to improve the hydrophilicity, performance, and anti-fouling of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membrane with cellulose acetate (CA) filler synthesized from screw pine (Pandanus tectorius) leaf cellulose. CA was synthesized by the Fischer esterification mechanism and the PVDF membrane was fabricated using the phase inversion method with 0.3% CA concentration. FTIR analysis of CA shows an absorption at 1700 cm−1 suggesting that the hydroxyl group of cellulose had been successfully substituted with an ester group (C=O), and CA has a high degree of substitution (DS) value of 3.50. Adding CA improved the hydrophilicity and anti-fouling properties of up to 86.45% of PVDF membranes. Furthermore, CA increased the value of water permeability 2–3 times than pristine PVDF membrane. The presence of CA enhanced the porosity of the PVDF membrane, which promoted the membrane's effectiveness for MB filtering. As a result, CA from screw pine leaf cellulose has promising features as a filler for PVDF membranes and potential dye filtration.
Drying of Merbau (Intsia bijuga) Sawdust Extract: Effect of Temperature on the Quality of Natural Dye Product
Authors: Mindaryani Aswati , Sujoto Vincent Sutresno Hadi , Silalahi Sandrina Christine Michelin , Petrus Himawan Tri Bayu Murti , Rahayuningsih Edia
Published: October 2023

The textile sector leaves 80% of effluent untreated. Carcinogenic, mutagenic, and poisonous synthetic colors in textile waste streams harm the ecosystem. Biodegradable natural dyes are safer than synthetic dyes. Merbau sawdust is abundant in Papua but underutilized. Merbau wood (Intsia bijuga) has considerable tannin and dye potential. Tannin diffuses to the surface, coloring it brown in humid air or water. Merbau extract can be dried to make powdered natural dye. This study examines Merbau sawdust extract drying and natural dye quality at different temperatures. The drying process was carried out in a convective oven at 60, 75, and 90 °C. The data showed that the solid product of natural dye was already dried at 60–90 °C within 100 min. The content of tannin in the dried natural dye powder was analyzed by titration method. The tannin content in the solid product was 0.5–0.9 g tannin/g solid. The drying rate during the constant drying rate period is around 0.00137 to 0.00256 g/cm2 min. The effect of drying temperature (60 to 90 °C) on the tannin degradation is insignificant, based on the titration method and FTIR analysis.
Predialysis Vascular Access Placement and Catheter Use at Hemodialysis Initiation
Authors: Allon Michael , Al-Balas Alian , Young Carlton J. , Cutter Gary R. , Lee Timmy
Published: October 2023

Background

Current guidelines encourage placement of an arteriovenous (AV) fistula in patients with advanced CKD to avoid initiation of hemodialysis with a central venous catheter. However, the relative merits of predialysis placement of an AV fistula or graft have been poorly studied.

Methods

This study included 380 patients (mean age 59±14 years, 73% Black patients, 51% male) from a large academic medical center who underwent predialysis placement of an AV fistula (286) or AV graft (94). The study quantified three end points: time from access placement to initiation of dialysis, likelihood of starting hemodialysis without a catheter, and number of vascular access procedures before dialysis initiation.

Results

The eGFR at access surgery was <10, 10–14, and ≥15 ml/min per 1.73 m2 in 87 (23%), 179 (47%), and 114 (30%) patients, respectively. The median time from access surgery to hemodialysis initiation was 69, 156, and 429 days in patients with an eGFR of <10, 10–14, and ≥15 ml/min per 1.73 m2, respectively (P < 0.001). Hemodialysis was initiated within 2 years of access surgery in 298 (78%) of the patients. Catheter-free hemodialysis initiation was higher in patients with an AV graft versus an AV fistula when the eGFR was <10 ml/min per 1.73 m2 (88% versus 43%; odds ratio [OR], 9.10 [95% confidence interval, 2.74 to 26.4]) and when the eGFR was 10–14 ml/min per 1.73 m2 (88% versus 54%; OR, 6.05 [2.35 to 15.0]) but similar when the eGFR was ≥15 ml/min per 1.73 m2 (90% versus 75%; OR, 3.00 [0.48 to 34.9]). Patients undergoing an AV fistula were more likely to undergo an angioplasty (11% versus 0%, P < 0.001), surgical access revision (26% versus 8%, P < 0.001), a second access placement (16% versus 6%, P = 0.02), and a catheter insertion (32% versus 11%, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Among patients with CKD undergoing vascular access surgery when their eGFR was <15 ml/min per 1.73 m2, catheter use at dialysis initiation was much less likely when an AV graft, rather than an AV fistula, was placed.
Research on Compensation System for Ecological Environment Damage—Taking Ganzi Prefecture of Sichuan Province as an Example
Authors: Li Guo
Published: October 2023

The construction of ecological civilization is a process of sustainable development. Environmental protection extends from individual interests to social public interests, from general tort compensation to environmental public interest litigation and ecological environmental damage compensation, which effectively improves the ecological environment. As the most important natural forest distribution area in Sichuan Province, Ganzi Prefecture is an important part of the ecological protection barrier and “China Water tower” in the upper reaches of the Yangtze River and the Yellow River. It is rich in forest, grassland and wetland resources and has a good ecological environment. This paper mainly makes an empirical study of the ecological environment damage compensation system in Ganzi Prefecture, and puts forward some suggestions for improving the system.
Topical Application of Acerola Cherry Powder in Combination With Rosemary Extract Extends the Shelf Life of Beef Chuck Roll and Bone-In Short Rib Steaks
Authors: Van Buren Jessie B. , Buseman Brianna J. , Weber Tanya M. , Nasados James A. , Lancaster Jessica M. , Smart Jaxon H. , Church James A. , Price William J. , Bass Phillip D. , Colle Michael J.
Published: October 2023

Improving the shelf life of steaks from beef chuck rolls and bone-in short ribs, items commonly exported, will increase the demand of beef in international markets. Our objectives were to determine the effect of topically applying combinations of acerola cherry powder and rosemary extract on steak color and lipid oxidation of beef chuck roll and bone-in short rib. USDA Choice beef chuck rolls (Institutional Meat Purchase Specifications [IMPS] 116A; N=9) andbone-in short ribs (IMPS 123A; N=18) were aged (0°C) 28 d and cut into 1.0 cm-thick steaks. Steak treatments included the following: untreated control (C) or topically sprayed (2 mL) with an acerola cherry powder solution (0.05% A), rosemary extract solution (0.10% R), or mixture of acerola cherry powder and rosemary extract (M1=0.05% A+0.1% R; M2=0.1% A+0.1% R; M3=0.05% A+0.2% R; M4=0.1% A+0.2% R). On day 0 of retail display, oxygen consumption, metmyoglobin-reducing activity, and lipid oxidation were measured. Lipid oxidation was evaluated again following 4 d of retail display. Chuck roll steak color was scored twice daily, whereas short rib lean and bone marrow color were scored once daily throughout 4 d of retail display. Treating chuck roll steaks with M2, M3, and M4 decreased lipid oxidation compared to C and A (P=0.004). In short rib steaks, lipid oxidation remained constant from day 0 to 4 treated with M4 but increased for all other treatments (P<0.001). Chuck roll steaks treated with A, M2, and M3 were redder than C steaks (P=0.001). On days 0 and 4, untreated bone marrow was less red than all the antioxidant treated bone marrow (P=0.011). Antioxidant treatment did not improve subjective lean color for the chuck roll (P=0.324) or bone-in short rib (P=0.081). Topical application of M4 (0.1% acerola cherry powder and 0.2% rosemary extract) reduced lipid oxidation in both chuck roll and bone-in short rib steaks. Additionally, antioxidants alone or in combination with one another improve objective redness scores by up to 2 points; however, the subjective color panel did not observe lean color improvement.