bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling the Critical Success Factors for BIM Implementation in Developing Countries: Sampling the Turkish AEC Industry
Authors: Tan Seda , Gumusburun Ayalp Gulden , Tel Muhammed Zubeyr , Serter Merve , Metinal Yusuf Berkay
Published: August 2022

One of the latest advancements transforming the global architectural, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry is building information modeling (BIM). Although BIM implementation is at high level in developed countries, it is at a lower level in developing countries. BIM is new to the construction industry in Turkey, with only minor construction firms having implemented it. When making projections based on the current state of the Turkish AEC industry, it is foreseen that it will become mandatory in the near future. Considering this projection, it is doubtful that many construction companies will be caught unprepared for this situation and will not know how to implement BIM. Therefore, this study aimed to identify and model the critical success factors for BIM implementation and their impact size in order to gain insight for the fast and efficient implementation of BIM among construction firms in the Turkish AEC industry, which can be generalized for most developing countries. To reach these aims, a questionnaire was designed with 41 identified success criteria (SC) that were derived through a systematic literature review (SLR). The survey was conducted on construction professionals who actively implement BIM technology at their occupied firms in Turkey and they were asked to rank the importance of 41 SC on a five-point Likert scale. The sampling frame consisted of architects and civil engineers, and in total, 243 responses were received. The differentiation between SC and critical success criteria (CSC) was obtained by using a normalized mean cutoff value. An exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was used to identify the critical success factors (CSFs), and structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to examine the underlying size effects of each CSF on BIM implementation in the Turkish AEC industry. The results of this study reveal 20 CSC for successful BIM implementation, and EFA exhibited three CSFs from 20 CSC. Three critical success factors for BIM implementation in the Turkish construction industry were determined and grouped into two categories. “Awareness of technological benefits” and “organizational readiness and competitive advantages” formed one group and are the most influential critical success factors for BIM implementation. “Motivation of management regarding BIM” formed the second group of critical success factors that have a significant effect.
Refinement Study on Pressure Relief Zone of Gas Extraction Borehole Considering Roughness
Authors: Bi Ruiqing , Chen Xuexi , Zhang Liang , Wang Shuangyan , Liu Xiaohui , Hua Shuai
Published: August 2022

Pre-pumping of coal seam gas by gas extraction borehole is an effective measure to manage gas. The existing study concluded that the pressure relief zone of the roadway is difficult to seal, and thus the sealing depth of the gas extraction borehole should generally exceed the pressure relief zone of the roadway. Based on the relationship between roughness and GSI, a numerical simulation was carried out with the engineering background of the 22200 machine tunnel of the E8 coal seam of the Sixth Mine of Pingdingshan Tianan Coal Industry Company Limited. The results of numerical simulation and field experiments show that: (1) the quantitative standard of whether the borehole has “air leakage” or whether the surrounding rock cracks around the borehole are connected to the free surface can be characterized by permeability; (2) the variation rate of relative permeability has an inflection point at 2–4 m from the free surface of the roadway wall; (3) the dividing point of whether the surrounding rock cracks around the borehole are connected to the free surface can be set at 6 m, which is located in the pressure relief zone. (4) when the sealing depth of the coal roadway is 6 m and the sealing depth of the rock roadway is 5 m, there is no gas leakage in the borehole, that is, there is an area where a crack is not connected with the free surface of the roadway in the pressure relief zone.
A Study on the Optimal Flexible Job-Shop Scheduling with Sequence-Dependent Setup Time Based on a Hybrid Algorithm of Improved Quantum Cat Swarm Optimization
Authors: Song Haicao , Liu Pan
Published: August 2022

Multi-item and small-lot-size production modes lead to frequent setup, which involves significant setup times and has a substantial impact on productivity. In this study, we investigated the optimal flexible job-shop scheduling problem with a sequence-dependent setup time. We built a mathematical model with the optimal objective of minimization of the maximum completion time (makespan). Considering the process sequence, which is influenced by setup time, processing time, and machine load limitations, first, processing machinery is chosen based on machine load and processing time, and then processing tasks are scheduled based on setup time and processing time. An improved quantum cat swarm optimization (QCSO) algorithm is proposed to solve the problem, a quantum coding method is introduced, the quantum bit (Q-bit) and cat swarm algorithm (CSO) are combined, and the cats are iteratively updated by quantum rotation angle position; then, the dynamic mixture ratio (MR) value is selected according to the number of algorithm iterations. The use of this method expands our understanding of space and increases operation efficiency and speed. Finally, the improved QCSO algorithm and parallel genetic algorithm (PGA) are compared through simulation experiments. The results show that the improved QCSO algorithm has better results, and the robustness of the algorithm is improved.
Payments for Watershed Ecosystem Services in the Eyes of the Public, China
Authors: Chen Chunci , He Guizhen , Lu Yonglong
Published: August 2022

Recent decades have witnessed an increased development of schemes for payment for watershed ecosystem services (PWES). However, the public is usually excluded from PWES systems. Reliable and empirical research on PWES from the public perspective is scarce. Aiming to understand public perceptions, attitudes, participation, and responses to PWES, this paper investigated local residents living in the Yongding River watershed area through a face-to-face questionnaire survey. The results showed that the public had limited knowledge of PWES. The public was keen to be involved in PWES decision-making, but the current level of public participation was very low. Regarding willingness to pay (WTP) and willingness to accept (WTA), nearly 55% of the respondents supported paying the upstream residents for protecting the environment if they were beneficiaries in the downstream areas, while 85% of the respondents agreed to accept compensation if they were contributors to environmental improvement in the upstream areas. Although some of the respondents’ daily lives were affected by the watershed environment, they were reluctant to pay, reflecting a sign of “free-riding”. The regression analysis showed that public concerns, values, knowledge of PWES and the watershed environment, and demographic factors determined the WTP and WTA. The results of the contingent valuation method and opportunity costs method showed that the annual payment for headwater conservation areas (Huailai and Yanqing) ranged from CNY 245 to 718 million (USD 36 to 106 million). This study contributes to our limited knowledge and understanding of public sentiment and makes recommendations for improving public receptivity to PWES.
Crop Diversification and Resilience of Drought-Resistant Species in Semi-Arid Areas: An Economic and Environmental Analysis
Authors: De Boni Annalisa , D’Amico Antonia , Acciani Claudio , Roma Rocco
Published: August 2022

Specialization and intensification in agriculture have increased productivity but have also led to the spread of monocultural systems, simplifying production but reducing genetic diversity. The purpose of this study was to propose crop diversification as a tool to increase biodiversity and achieve sustainable and resilient intensive agriculture, particularly in areas with water scarcity. In this paper, a combined life cycle assessment (LCA) and life cycle costing (LCC) applied to evaluate the environmental and economic sustainability of a differentiated system of cultivation were (pomegranates, almonds and olives), according to modern intensive and super-intensive cropping systems. Based on the results obtained, it is deduced that pomegranate cultivation generated the highest environmental load, followed by almonds and olives. From the financial analysis, it emerged that almond farming is the most profitable, followed by pomegranate and olive farming.
Tranquillity in Urban Classical Chinese Gardens and Modern Parks: The Effect of Natural and Contextual Features
Authors: Marafa Lawal M. , Wang Zhe , Tsang Felix K. H.
Published: August 2022

Parks and green spaces are an integral part of many urban areas. Such spaces offer a variety of psychological, physical and social benefits promoting a stronger sense of community and allowing people to cope better with everyday stress. These parks are often designed to provide tranquillity for people, and it is now an emerging area of policy in the promotion of quality of life. Tranquillity is considered a natural asset. Although they are vital, tranquil spaces are under threat, and it is, therefore, important to identify and understand such places so that they can be further planned and managed for the benefits that they provide. This study conceptualises the understanding of tranquillity and determines the extent to which a tranquil environment can be achieved. The study identified six parks referred to as “modern parks (MPs)” and “classical Chinese gardens (CCGs)”. Three parks each are located in Hong Kong and Guangzhou. Questionnaires were used to ascertain the importance of tranquil areas and the contribution of park components towards tranquillity. This study investigates the contribution of park elements that include both natural and contextual features. Furthermore, park characteristics and park elements were similarly identified. There were clear differences between natural and contextual features in terms of their potential contribution towards park users’ perceived tranquillity. There is also a striking importance and potential contribution of contextual features within classical Chinese gardens in relation to perceived tranquillity. This study concludes that there is the need to continue to enhance the quality of park spaces with regard to fostering tranquillity in urban areas.
Green Product Development and Order Strategies for Retailers
Authors: Zhu Chenbo , Yue Juntian , Chen Jing
Published: August 2022

In this study, we consider a green supply chain to encompass two competing retailers, whose market demands include a stochastic component and a deterministic component, and we assume that consumer returns exist. We use game theory to determine the optimal decisions that retailers could make regarding greenness level and purchase quantity in either competitive environments or monopoly environments, and we perform sensitivity analysis. We show that the optimal greenness level and the purchase quantity for the stochastic demand are both higher in a competitive environment than those in a monopoly environment when the consumer return rate is low; therefore, competition is more beneficial to the increasing of the greenness level of products and the market supply than monopoly environments. We also show that, in a competitive environment, the optimal greenness level, the purchase quantity for the stochastic demand, and the revenue of retailers increase as the retail price increases, or as the wholesale price, the greenness R&D investment cost coefficient, and the consumer return rate decrease, and that this finding remains true in a monopoly environment, except that the optimal greenness level is found to increase as the return rate increases in the case of a monopoly environment. Finally, we suggest that the government should break monopolies, encourage positive competition, support small- and medium-sized companies, and subsidize the green industry to increase the greenness level of products and market supplies.
Towards a Circular Economy Development for Household Used Cooking Oil in Guayaquil: Quantification, Characterization, Modeling, and Geographical Mapping
Authors: Hidalgo-Crespo José , Alvarez-Mendoza César I. , Soto Manuel , Amaya-Rivas Jorge Luis
Published: August 2022

The objective of the present study was to quantify, geo-locate, model, and characterize domestic used cooking oil (dUCO) generation for the city of Guayaquil. For this reason, and as a prerequisite for the proper planning of municipal cooking oil waste management in the city, we carried out 14-day fieldwork involving 532 households from different parishes of Guayaquil, combined with a survey to acquire data on their demographic and socioeconomic statistics. The artisanal characterization was further executed to 40 subsamples of dUCO to determine the density, moisture, solids content, and the volatile-matter characteristics present. Additionally, the Geographic Information System (GIS) was used to map the used cooking oil generation hotspots for the city, adding the Geographical Position System (GPS) of each participating household during the data acquisition. Finally, a multiple-regression model was proposed to establish correlations between the dUCO generated and five independent variables, such as household size, socioeconomic group, tenure status, education level, and income. Results showed that the per capita daily dUCO-generation rate was found to be 4.30 g/day/c or 4.99 mL/day/c, with a density of 0.86 g/mL. Filterable solids represented 0.37% for the entire dUCO collected sample, while separable water and grease represented 1.58% and 0.014%, respectively. In addition, the percentage of the volatile matter was found to be 7.7% ± 2.1% of the filtered dUCO. Using GIS mapping, we found that the areas near tourism sites have a higher dUCO generation value, considering the household survey. Following the developed multiple-regression model developed, it was found that household size and the socioeconomic group have the maximum effect on generating used cooking oil.
A New Solvable Generalized Trigonometric Tangent Potential Based on SUSYQM
Authors: Xiong Lulin , Tan Xin , Zhong Shikun , Cheng Wei , Luo Guang
Published: August 2022

Supersymmetric quantum mechanics has wide applications in physics. However, there are few potentials that can be solved exactly by supersymmetric quantum mechanics methods, so it is undoubtedly of great significance to find more potentials that can be solved exactly. This paper studies the supersymmetric quantum mechanics problems of the Schrödinger equation with a new kind of generalized trigonometric tangent superpotential: Atannpx+Btanmpx. We will elaborate on this new potential in the following aspects. Firstly, the shape invariant relation of partner potential is generated by the generalized trigonometric tangent superpotential. We find three shape invariance forms that satisfy the additive condition. Secondly, the eigenvalues and the eigenwave functions of the potential are studied separately in these three cases. Thirdly, the potential algebra of such a superpotential is discussed, and the discussions are explored from two aspects: one parameter’s and two parameters’ potential algebra. Through the potential algebra, the eigenvalue spectrums are given separately which are consistent with those mentioned earlier. Finally, we summarize the paper and give an outlook on the two-parameter shape-invariant potential.
Long-Short Term Memory Technique for Monthly Rainfall Prediction in Thale Sap Songkhla River Basin, Thailand
Authors: Salaeh Nureehan , Ditthakit Pakorn , Pinthong Sirimon , Hasan Mohd Abul , Islam Saiful , Mohammadi Babak , Linh Nguyen Thi Thuy
Published: August 2022

Rainfall is a primary factor for agricultural production, especially in a rainfed agricultural region. Its accurate prediction is therefore vital for planning and managing farmers’ plantations. Rainfall plays an important role in the symmetry of the water cycle, and many hydrological models use rainfall as one of their components. This paper aimed to investigate the applicability of six machine learning (ML) techniques (i.e., M5 model tree: (M5), random forest: (RF), support vector regression with polynomial (SVR-poly) and RBF kernels (SVR- RBF), multilayer perceptron (MLP), and long-short-term memory (LSTM) in predicting for multiple-month ahead of monthly rainfall. The experiment was set up for two weather gauged stations located in the Thale Sap Songkhla basin. The model development was carried out by (1) selecting input variables, (2) tuning hyperparameters, (3) investigating the influence of climate variables on monthly rainfall prediction, and (4) predicting monthly rainfall with multi-step-ahead prediction. Four statistical indicators including correlation coefficient (r), mean absolute error (MAE), root mean square error (RMSE), and overall index (OI) were used to assess the model’s effectiveness. The results revealed that large-scale climate variables, particularly sea surface temperature, were significant influence variables for rainfall prediction in the tropical climate region. For projections of the Thale Sap Songkhla basin as a whole, the LSTM model provided the highest performance for both gauged stations. The developed predictive rainfall model for two rain gauged stations provided an acceptable performance: r (0.74), MAE (86.31 mm), RMSE (129.11 mm), and OI (0.70) for 1 month ahead, r (0.72), MAE (91.39 mm), RMSE (133.66 mm), and OI (0.68) for 2 months ahead, and r (0.70), MAE (94.17 mm), RMSE (137.22 mm), and OI (0.66) for 3 months ahead.
Removal of Methyl Violet from Aqueous Solution by Adsorption onto Halloysite Nanoclay: Experiment and Theory
Authors: Sadiku Makfire , Selimi Teuta , Berisha Avni , Maloku Arsim , Mehmeti Valbonë , Thaçi Veprim , Hasani Naim
Published: August 2022

Methyl Violet (MV) was removed from aqueous solutions by adsorption onto halloysite nanoclay (HNC) employing equilibrium, kinetics, thermodynamic data, molecular modellingR (MD), and Monte Carlo (MC) simulations. The chosen experimental variables were pH, temperature, starting MV concentration, contact time, and adsorbent dosage. The adsorption rate was determined to increase with increasing contact time, initial dye concentration, pH, and temperature. The Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin, and Dubinin–Radushkevich (D-R) isotherms were utilized to determine the adsorption capacity of HNC. The Langmuir equation matched equilibrium data better than the other models, whereas the pseudo-second-order model better described kinetic data, and thermodynamic analyses revealed that the adsorption process was spontaneous, endothermic, and physisorption-based. This study focused on two distinct molecular mechanics-based theoretical approaches (MC and MD). These techniques enabled a molecular comprehension of the interaction between the MV molecule and the halloysite surface. Theoretical results were consistent with experimental findings. The outcomes revealed that HNC is an excellent dye adsorbent for industrial effluents.
Alleviation of Ammonium Toxicity in Salvia splendens ‘Vista Red’ with Silicon Supplementation
Authors: Song Jinnan , Yang Jingli , Jeong Byoung Ryong
Published: August 2022

Ammonium (NH4+) toxicity seriously hampers the yield and quality of salvia plants because most varieties or sub-species are highly sensitive to NH4+. Silicon (Si) is an alternative that is used to minimize these disturbances and maintain better growth under NH4+ toxicity. Nevertheless, the mitigatory effects of Si on NH4+-stressed salvia are unknown. Therefore, this study was carried out to determine how Si assists to alleviate the NH4+ toxicity degree in salvia. To this end, salvia plants were cultivated in a controlled environment supplied with a constant N (nitrogen) level (13 meq·L−1) in the form of three NH4+:NO3− ratios (0:100, 50:50, 100:0), each with (1.0 meq·L−1) or without Si. Physiological disorders and typical NH4+ toxicity symptoms, as well as interrupted photosynthesis, were observed in the 100% NH4+-treated plants. Furthermore, cation uptake inhibition and oxidative damage were also imposed by the 100% NH4+ supply. In contrast, in the presence of Si, the NH4+ toxicity degree was attenuated and plant growth was ensured. Accordingly, the NH4+ toxicity appearance ratio decreased significantly. Furthermore, Si-treated plants showed an ameliorated photosynthetic ability, elevated internal K and Ca levels, and enhanced antioxidative capacity, as reflected by improved major antioxidant enzyme activities, as well as diminished accumulation of ROS (reactive oxygen species) and MDA (malondialdehyde). Our findings enlightened the agronomic importance of additional Si to nutrient solutions, especially pertaining to bedding plants at risk of NH4+ toxicity.
Surveillance Quality Indicators Highlight the Need for Improving Tuberculosis Diagnostics and Monitoring in a Hyperendemic Area of the Brazilian Amazon Region
Authors: Garcez Juliana Conceição Dias , Sardinha Daniele Melo , Conceição Emilyn Costa , Costa Gabriel Fazzi , Sousa Ianny Ferreira Raiol , Mesquita Cristal Ribeiro , Carmo Wellington Caldas do , Rodrigues Yan Corra , Lima Luana Nepomuceno Gondim Costa , Lima Karla Valéria Batista
Published: August 2022

The city of Ananindeua, State of Pará, Brazil, is a hyperendemic area for tuberculosis (TB). The present study describes the population characteristics and epidemiological indicators of TB cases from Ananindeua, from 2018 to 2020. The TB cases were screened from the Municipal Health Department of Ananindeua database, and the secondary data were obtained from the Brazilian Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN). A high percentage of cases did not undergo a rapid molecular test (74.9%) or culture (84.8%) for diagnosis of TB; a chest X-ray examination for diagnosis of TB was performed in 74.47% of new cases. The SINAN form data was incomplete on susceptibility test results (<0.01–92.7). Sputum smear microscopy for monitoring treatment was recorded in the follow-up form in 34.3% and after the 6th month in 61.1% of cases. The cure rate (60.31%) was below the recommendation by the Brazilian Ministry of Health. The quality indicators showed many weaknesses: (I) lack of availability of smear microscopy as a diagnostic test in a hyper-endemic area; (II) low availability of specific exams such as culture and rapid molecular test (RMT); (III) low adherence to smear microscopy to monitor the evolution of cases during treatment; (IV) absence of drug susceptibility test data; (V) failure to fill in essential variables for TB surveillance.
Listening to Celestial Algebras
Authors: Beltrán Jiménez Jose , Koivisto Tomi S.
Published: August 2022

In this essay, we immerse into the framework of normed division algebras as a suitable arena to accommodate the standard model of elementary particles, and we explore some applications to cosmology. Remarkably, they permit interesting non-trivial realisations of the cosmological principle with an interplay between the symmetry groups of the quaternions and octonions. We also argue how these realisations give rise to potentially observational signatures in gravitational waves astronomy.
Recent Drug Development in the Woodchuck Model of Chronic Hepatitis B
Authors: Suresh Manasa , Menne Stephan
Published: August 2022

Infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) is responsible for the increasing global hepatitis burden, with an estimated 296 million people being carriers and living with the risk of developing chronic liver disease and cancer. While the current treatment options for chronic hepatitis B (CHB), including oral nucleos(t)ide analogs and systemic interferon-alpha, are deemed suboptimal, the path to finding an ultimate cure for this viral disease is rather challenging. The lack of suitable laboratory animal models that support HBV infection and associated liver disease progression is one of the major hurdles in antiviral drug development. For more than four decades, experimental infection of the Eastern woodchuck with woodchuck hepatitis virus has been applied for studying the immunopathogenesis of HBV and developing new antiviral therapeutics against CHB. There are several advantages to this animal model that are beneficial for performing both basic and translational HBV research. Previous review articles have focused on the value of this animal model in regard to HBV replication, pathogenesis, and immune response. In this article, we review studies of drug development and preclinical evaluation of direct-acting antivirals, immunomodulators, therapeutic vaccines, and inhibitors of viral entry, gene expression, and antigen release in the woodchuck model of CHB since 2014 until today and discuss their significance for clinical trials in patients.
Evaluation of the Anti-Spike (RDB) IgG Titer among Workers Employed at the University of Pisa Vaccinated with Different Types of SARS-CoV-2 Vaccines
Authors: Foddis Rudy , Marino Riccardo , Silvestri Roberto , Fallahi Poupak , Perretta Salvio , Garaffa Christian , Morganti Riccardo , Corsi Martina , Mennucci Jonathan , Porciatti Francesco , Nerli Gianluca , Buselli Rodolfo , Veltri Antonello , Caldi Fabrizio , Guglielmi Giovanni , Luchini Grazia , Briani Silvia , Talini Donatella , Cipriani Francesco
Published: August 2022

With the development of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines, many authors started evaluating the immunization efficacy of the available vaccines mainly through sero-positivity tests or by a quantitative assessment of the IgG against the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 virus in vaccinated subjects. In this work, we compared the titers resulting from vaccination and tried to understand the potential factors affecting the immune response to the available SARS-CoV-2 vaccines. This study was conducted on 670 volunteers employed at the University of Pisa and undergoing a health surveillance program at the University Hospital of Pisa. For each participant, 10 mL of blood, information about contacts with confirmed cases of COVID-19, age, sex, SARS-CoV-2 vaccination status, previous SARS-CoV-2 infection and symptoms, type of vaccine and the date of administration were collected. In the multivariate analysis, the type of vaccine, the presence of symptoms in SARS-CoV-2 positive individuals, and the distance from the second dose significantly affected the antibody titer; the combined vaccination resulted in a faster decay over time compared with the other types of vaccination. No significant differences were observed between Spikevax and Comirnaty (p > 0.05), while the antibody levels remain more stable in subjects undergoing Vaxzevria vaccination (p < 0.01) compared with mRNA-based ones.
LAMP-1 Chimeric to HIV-1 p55Gag in the Immunization of Neonate Mice Induces an Early Germinal Center Formation and AID Expression
Authors: Teixeira Franciane Mouradian Emidio , Oliveira Luana de Mendonça , Pietrobon Anna Julia , Salles Érika Machado de , D’Império Lima Maria Regina , Viana Isabelle Freire Tabosa , Lins Roberto Dias , Rigato Paula Ordonhez , Marques Ernesto Torres de Azevedo , da Silva Duarte Alberto José , Sato Maria Notomi
Published: August 2022

Neonates have a limited adaptive response of plasma cells, germinal center (GC) B cells, and T follicular helper cells (TFH). As neonatal vaccination can be an important tool for AIDS prevention, these limitations need to be overcome. Chimeric DNA vaccine encoding p55Gag HIV-1 protein conjugated with lysosomal-associated membrane protein 1 (LAMP-1) has been described as immunogenic in the neonate period. Herein, we investigated the immunologic mechanisms involved in neonatal immunization with a LAMP-1/p55Gag (LAMP/Gag) DNA vaccine in a C57BL/6 mouse background. Neonatal LAMP/Gag vaccination induced strong Gag-specific T-cell response until adulthood and elevated levels of anti-Gag IgG antibodies. We also demonstrated for the first time that the immunogenicity of the neonatal period with LAMP/Gag is due to the induction of high-affinity anti-p24 IgG antibodies and long-term plasma cells. Together with that, there is the generation of early TFH cells and the formation of GC sites with the upregulation of activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID) enzyme mRNA and protein expression in draining lymph nodes after neonatal LAMP/Gag vaccination. These findings underscore that the LAMP-1 strategy in the chimeric vaccine could be useful to enhance antibody production even in the face of neonatal immaturity, and they contribute to the development of new vaccine approaches for other emerging pathogens at an early stage of life.
Meta-Data Analysis to Explore the Hub of the Hub-Genes That Influence SARS-CoV-2 Infections Highlighting Their Pathogenetic Processes and Drugs Repurposing
Authors: Mosharaf Md. Parvez , Kibria Md. Kaderi , Hossen Md. Bayazid , Islam Md. Ariful , Reza Md. Selim , Mahumud Rashidul Alam , Alam Khorshed , Gow Jeff , Mollah Md. Nurul Haque
Published: August 2022

The pandemic of SARS-CoV-2 infections is a severe threat to human life and the world economic condition. Although vaccination has reduced the outspread, but still the situation is not under control because of the instability of RNA sequence patterns of SARS-CoV-2, which requires effective drugs. Several studies have suggested that the SARS-CoV-2 infection causing hub differentially expressed genes (Hub-DEGs). However, we observed that there was not any common hub gene (Hub-DEGs) in our analyses. Therefore, it may be difficult to take a common treatment plan against SARS-CoV-2 infections globally. The goal of this study was to examine if more representative Hub-DEGs from published studies by means of hub of Hub-DEGs (hHub-DEGs) and associated potential candidate drugs. In this study, we reviewed 41 articles on transcriptomic data analysis of SARS-CoV-2 and found 370 unique hub genes or studied genes in total. Then, we selected 14 more representative Hub-DEGs (AKT1, APP, CXCL8, EGFR, IL6, INS, JUN, MAPK1, STAT3, TNF, TP53, UBA52, UBC, VEGFA) as hHub-DEGs by their protein-protein interaction analysis. Their associated biological functional processes, transcriptional, and post-transcriptional regulatory factors. Then we detected hHub-DEGs guided top-ranked nine candidate drug agents (Digoxin, Avermectin, Simeprevir, Nelfinavir Mesylate, Proscillaridin, Linifanib, Withaferin, Amuvatinib, Atazanavir) by molecular docking and cross-validation for treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infections. Therefore, the findings of this study could be useful in formulating a common treatment plan against SARS-CoV-2 infections globally.
Laser Cutting of Brass Sheet
Authors: Fábián Enikő Réka , Czigány Bence
Published: August 2022

Laser cutting of copper-based alloy sheets is very difficult due to their high reflectivity, which can be modified with graphitization. The optimal parameters for a 2.5 mm thick brass sheet were determined by examining the laser beam parameter variations and the laser cut kerfs. The best characteristics of kerfs were obtained when the surface was graphitized, the laser frequency was 200 Hz, the applied laser speed was 1400mm/min on 2500 W power and the focal point was under the surface by 0.8 mm. The applied working gas was nitrogen.
Developing best practice guidelines in designing physical learning environments for students with complex needs
Authors:   , Keegan Pamela
Published: August 2022

This thesis explored the planning and design processes of learning areas for students with additional needs in Aotearoa New Zealand. The central case study was Blomfield Special School’s new two-classroom satellite unit at Oromahoe School in Northland. The aim of my research was to explore pedagogical practices, school property design, and how students with additional needs interact with physical learning environments so we could better support our children (tamariki) to discover and reach their potential. Flexibility and safety were two key aspects underpinning nearly all design features. Flexibility comes from having enough space and a well-designed layout with multipurpose-zones, flow between indoors and outdoors, moveable furniture and equipment, and operable-walls or ranch sliders. Safety involves secure facilities and outdoor spaces, robust building material and furniture, careful placement of glass, line-of-sight for passive supervision, and areas for teaching and learning with low sensory and “crash and bash” zones. When ākonga feel safe they can engage in learning that is personalised, inclusive, culturally responsive and fun. The MoE calculates specific entitlements for every new-build or renovations, so making the most of each square metre, and consultation between schools, architects, the MoE and local communities is crucial. Good designs work well for all students, not just those with complex or additional needs so the findings of this report are applicable to all schools.
Every minute is precious
Authors:   , Rowe Liz
Published: August 2022

This project proceeded under the conceptual frames of materiality and the everyday, alongside a methodology I called the project as process. While projects are intended to create change, processes are designed to resist change, so the two operate in unison but with different agendas. A set of rule-bound actions and procedures (the process) can be allowed to proceed potentially indefinitely, all the while generating ideas and observations that can inform the project and move it towards completion. The process governed the production of wheel-thrown ceramic bowls. My plan was to decide on a "perfect" bowl, then repeat it potentially hundreds of times. As the project progressed it was clear there were several avenues of investigation to explore. I have called the project in its entirety Every Minute is Precious - a name co-opted from a piece of writing exchanged for bowls and which encapsulates the contemporary dilemma of wanting to make the most of time but always being anxious that we are too busy to get everything we want done.  However, the central project that emerged from the methodology was The Exchange. Each bowl took an hour to make, glaze and document, and I exchanged it for an hour of someone's time. This hour could be measured in several ways, from the participant's hourly pay rate to goods or services for me or someone else that we agreed. Through The Exchange, and the process of negotiating and agreeing the 65 exchanges undertaken, social and cultural values were elicited, economic considerations were central to the process, and political values emerged from the consideration of time.
Effect of Anatomical Location of Dental Implants in the Mandible on Generation of Metal Artifacts on Cone-Beam Computed Tomography Scans
Authors: Farhangnia Azadeh , Reyhani Zoherh , Farhangnia Parisa , Hekmat Bahareh
Published: August 2022

Background: Metal artifacts are the major weak points of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans. This study aimed to quantify the amount of metal artifacts generated by dental implants placed in different anatomical locations in the mandible on CBCT scans. Methods: In this study, 98 CBCT scans of mandibular dental implants with prosthetic crowns were randomly selected irrespective of the age and gender of the patients. Of all 98 implants, 42 were placed in the anterior mandible and 56 were placed in the posterior mandible. The samples were divided into two groups of single and multiple implants. The CBCT scans of each implant were evaluated in apical and cervical cross-sections. The amount of metal artifacts generated around the implants was calculated. Data were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U test at 0.05 level of significance. Results: Higher amounts of artifacts were noted in the anterior mandible compared to the posterior mandible. Additionally, the amount of artifacts was higher in the cervical cross-section than in the apical cross-section. The difference in the amount of artifacts generated in the cervical cross-section was significant between single and multiple implants (P<0.05). However, this difference was not significant in the apical cross-section (P>0.05). Conclusions: Dental implants always generate metal artifacts on CBCT scans, and the amount of generated artifacts is influenced by the anatomical location of implants in the mandibular arch.
Giant Cell Fibroma: A Report of Seven Cases
Authors: Irani Soussan , Jamshidi Shokoofeh , Amini Erfaneh , Vaziriamjad Samaneh , Atapour Parya
Published: August 2022

The giant cell fibroma is a fibrous tumor with characteristic clinicopathologic features. It accounts for approximately 2% to 5% of all oral fibrous proliferations submitted for biopsy. It does not appear to have a clear etiology. In this article, we present seven cases of giant cell fibroma retrieved from the Archive of the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, Dental Faculty, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences.
Laser in Dentistry During COVID-19 Pandemic: A Brief Review of Literature
Authors: Malekzadeh Meysam , Zare Helia
Published: August 2022

The novel coronavirus causing severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS-CoV-2) induced a pandemic influencing several countries worldwide; it has also caused serious concerns in dentistry due to its routes of transmission. As compared to the beginning of dental operations, the total microbial load suspended in the air rises more than three times during dental procedures due to the aerosols contained in the saliva, blood, organic tooth particles, bacteria, or viruses. Various types of dental lasers are recognized to be already produced and used in the treatment of hard and soft dental and oral tissues. One of the benefits of the dental laser is its ability to decontaminate surfaces and destroy germs. Dental lasers produce substantially less aerosols and droplets in comparison to high-speed dental headpieces and ultrasonic devices. Therefore, it is beneficial to indicate its influence in reducing the COVID-19 contamination risk, especially in dentistry.
Reconstruction of Scalp Basal Cell Carcinoma UsingPinwheel Flap: A Case Report
Authors: Soltaninia Omid , Ebrahimifard Arsalan , Soleimani Keihan
Published: August 2022

Ideal reconstruction of the scalp should ensure adequate coverage and protection of the underlying areas of the reconstruction site, include an adequate volume of soft and hard tissue, and contour the reconstruction of the area to accelerate wound healing, acceptable beauty, and proper function and reduce complications after the operation. This study aimed to present our experience regarding basal cell carcinoma (BCC) in the scalp and show the reconstructive option for BCC cancer in the scalp. A 69-year-old man was admitted due to the recurrence of the lesions in the forehead and scalp area, and he underwent surgery again one year ago. On initial examination, a lesion sized 5 cm× 5cm with an indistinct margin was visible in the frontal region. The lesion had bleeding, itching, and purulent discharge. Computed tomography scan results indicated skull bone resorption, and pathologic report showed active ulcer BCC with infiltrative growth pattern widely disseminated in deep portion. Tumor size was 4.5 cm × 4.3 cm × 1.5 cm and was negative for lymphovascular invasion. The patient was organized for wide local excision of the lesion. Following the tumor resection, the remaining oval defect was reconstructed using the pinwheel flap under general anesthesia in the operating room. It seems that the pinwheel flap design is an effective approach for the reconstruction of extensive lesions of the scalp.
Quantitative Determination of Apigenin, Catalpol, and Gallic Acid in Total Extracts From Different Parts of Plantago Species by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography
Authors: Rahamouz-Haghighi Samaneh , Bagheri Khadijeh , Mohsen-Pour Neda , Sharafi Ali
Published: August 2022

Background: Plantago species have been used in traditional medicine to treat many types of diseases. The detection of apigenin, catalpol, and gallic acid in Plantago lanceolata and Plantago major has been optimized using this protocol. Methods: The analyses were optimized using the C8 column, acetonitrile, and orthophosphoric acid–water (1:1%) as mobile phase at a flow rate of 1 mL.min-1, and a wavelength detector was observed at λ 204 nm. Results: The limits of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ) of the method were "0.04 and 0.14 μg/ mL", "0.007 and 0.022 μg/mL", as well as "0.02 and 0.073 μg/mL" for catalpol, apigenin, and gallic acid, respectively. The highest level of apigenin in the dry weight of plants (4.34, and 1.99 μg/mg) was obtained from the spike and aerial parts of P. lanceolata and P. major species. High levels of gallic acid extracted from aerial parts and leaves of both species were 12.85 and 10.11 μg/mg, respectively. The highest amount of catalpol (43.33 and 18.15 μg/mg DW) was obtained from the spike of both Plantago sp. The calibration curves were linear with a correlation coefficient (r>0.9991, 0.9996, and 0.9978). Conclusion: In sum, the most simple and sensitive method to measure compounds was developed using HPLC, which showed a great validity.
Potential Drug-Drug Interactions in Patients Using Warfarin, Heparin, and Enoxaparin
Authors: Ceylan Cengizhan , Umar Rashida Muhammad , Çattık Büşra Nur , Bolel Fatih , Şahna Mert , Karataş Koçberber Emine
Published: August 2022

Background: Drug-drug interactions can often lead to preventable adverse drug events and hospitalization. However, the clinical outcome of a potential drug-drug interaction that may range from minor alterations to major toxicity or loss of effect is often unknown. Drugs with narrow therapeutic index are more susceptible to the outcomes of interactions. Anticoagulants are one of the drug groups prone to drug-drug interactions and have important side effects. in this retrospective study, the frequency of drug-drug interactions involving warfarin, heparin and enoxaparin was investigated. Methods: Overall, 300 patients (including 55% males with an average age of 50.75 years) participated in this study, and for each anticoagulant, 100 patient orders were randomly selected from the hospital system. Drug-drug interactions were evaluated using the Micromedex drug interaction checker. Results: A total of 1691 drug-drug interactions (306 major, 253 moderate, and 89 minor interactions) were recorded of which only 648 (average 2.16) involved warfarin, heparin, or enoxaparin. Most interactions were recorded in patients admitted to the cardiovascular surgery (n=312) and cardiology (n=119) wards. There was a significant relationship between the number of drugs and the frequency of interaction. warfarin had the highest number of interactions (n=388). Conclusion: The frequency of drug interactions is high in patients on anticoagulant therapy. The efficacy and safety of these drugs can be affected by drug interactions. Accordingly, these interactions should always be considered, especially in patients with multiple drug use. Efficient monitoring strategies should be employed to optimize treatment while reducing adverse effects.
Evaluation of Older Adults or Their Caregivers’ Attitudes and Preferences Toward Ease of Use and Compliance of Different Dosage Forms
Authors: Goli Fatemeh , Norouzian Maryam , Rangchian Maryam , Ataei Sara
Published: August 2022

Background: This cross-sectional descriptive study aimed to evaluate older adults or their caregivers’ attitudes and preferences toward ease of use and compliance of various dosage forms and to improve medication consumption in the elderly population. Methods: This research was conducted in 2021 using a validated questionnaire asking respondents about problems experienced through consuming various dosage forms, preferences regarding dosage forms and frequency, and demographics. The content validity index and content validity ratio were used in the validation evaluation. Results: The incorrect medication in the elderly is mainly the result of forgetfulness. In addition, poor compliance was partly related to difficulty dividing tablets, large-sized drugs, and undesirable taste. Most elders preferred swelling pills and oral routes of administration. They further preferred to take fewer drugs in less-divided doses, just after a meal, at noon, or at bedtime. The child resistance packaging is unsuitable for them, and the blister or container with screw caps is preferred, and they adhere more to a medication when they are younger and more educated without relevance to gender or with whom they live. Conclusion: Our findings revealed that the formulation and administration of drugs according to elder preferences could improve their adherence to the medication.
Evaluation of the Serum Levels of TNF-α and IL-8 in the Patients Undergoing Angiography
Authors: Zare Lida , Eidi Akram , Safarian Mohammad , Kazemi Arababadi Mohammad
Published: August 2022

Introduction: Angiography is a safe cardiovascular technique for the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular disorders. The potential effects of angiography on the levels of cytokines are yet to be clarified completely. Interleukin-8 (IL-8) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) are important pro-inflammatory cytokines that participate in the pathogenesis of artery stenosis. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of angiography on the serum levels of IL-8 and TNF-α.Methods: Sixty participants in three groups, without, with one, and with more than one artery stenosis, were explored in this project. Serum levels of IL-8 and TNF-α were measured in the participants before and after angiography using the enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique.Results: Serum levels of IL-8, but not TNF-α, significantly decreased following angiography from 61.45 (9.80-266.72) to 7.00 (3.82-17.85) pg/mL (P = 0.008) in participants without artery stenosis, from 79.40 (7.20-197.40) to 6.80 (3.85-29.50) pg/mL (P = 0.002) in participants with one artery stenosis, and from 91.25 (12.80-145.97) to 10.75 (6.97-49.82) pg/mL (P = 0.004) in participants with more than one artery stenosis. The X-ray dose had a moderate positive correlation with serum levels of TNF-α in patients with more than one artery stenosis (r = 0.584, P = 0.009). Serum levels of IL-8 and TNF-α were not different between male and female participants in none of the groups. Conclusion: Angiography may be a protective factor against inflammation by suppressing IL-8.
Epidemiological Investigation of a COVID-19 Community Cluster in Kedah, Malaysia
Authors: Azit Noor Atika , Mohd Suan Mohd Azri , Omar Nazirah , Dali Nuratiqah , Romli Mashitah , Md Yusof Mohamad Affiz , Ahmad Madihah , Ibrahim Mohd Zukri , Abdul Rahman Sunita
Published: August 2022

Introduction: A cluster of novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) linked to an international traveller was reported in Kedah, Malaysia in July 2020. This study aimed to report data of a local community cluster of COVID-19 with a view to document the lessons learnt and to identify key points for future containment strategy in response of the ongoing pandemic. Methods: Epidemiological and clinical data from individuals with confirmed cases of COVID-19 within this cluster were collected via interviews and in-patient medical records. All data were analysed, and socio-demographic and clinical characteristics of all cases were presented. Results: Total of 31 cases of COVID-19 were confirmed and linked epidemiologically in Kedah state. The index case was identified and reported to breach quarantine order for international traveller given by health authority. The virus transmission widely spread among family members, restaurant customers and later in the community. Conclusion: Non-adherence to the preventive measures is the driving factor for the widespread of this cluster infection. Active contact tracing, aggressive containment measures, and effective risk communication are important to control the virus transmission in this locality.