bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validity of patients' online reviews at direct-to-consumer teleconsultation platforms: a protocol for a cross-sectional study using unannounced standardised patients
Authors: Xie Yunyun , He Wenjun , Wan Yuting , Luo Huanyuan , Cai Yiyuan , Gong Wenjie , Liu Siyuan , Zhong Dongmei , Hu Wenping , Zhang Lanping , Li Jiaqi , Zhao Qing , Lv Sensen , Li Chunping , Zhang Zhang , Li Changchang , Chen Xiaoshan , Huang Wangqing , Wang Yutong , Xu Dong
Published: May 2023

Introduction

As direct-to-consumer teleconsultation (hereafter referred to as ‘teleconsultation’) has gained popularity, an increasing number of patients have been leaving online reviews of their teleconsultation experiences. These reviews can help guide patients in identifying doctors for teleconsultation. However, few studies have examined the validity of online reviews in assessing the quality of teleconsultation against a gold standard. Therefore, we aim to use unannounced standardised patients (USPs) to validate online reviews in assessing both the technical and patient-centred quality of teleconsultations. We hypothesise that online review results will be more consistent with the patient-centred quality, rather than the technical quality, as assessed by the USPs.

Methods and analysis

In this cross-sectional study, USPs representing 11 common primary care conditions will randomly visit 253 physicians via the three largest teleconsultation platforms in China. Each physician will receive a text-based and a voice/video-based USP visit, resulting in a total of 506 USP visits. The USP will complete a quality checklist to assess the proportion of clinical practice guideline-recommended items during teleconsultation. After each visit, the USP will also complete the Patient Perception of Patient-Centeredness Rating. The USP-assessed results will be compared with online review results using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). If ICC >0.4 (p<0.05), we will assume reasonable concordance between the USP-assessed quality and online reviews. Furthermore, we will use correlation analysis, Lin’s Coordinated Correlation Coefficient and Kappa as supplementary analyses.

Ethics and dissemination

This study has received approval from the Institutional Review Board of Southern Medical University (#Southern Medical Audit (2022) No. 013). Results will be actively disseminated through print and social media, and USP tools will be made available for other researchers.

Trial registration

The study has been registered at the China Clinical Trials Registry (ChiCTR2200062975).
Burden of opioid toxicity death in the fentanyl-dominant era for people who experience incarceration in Ontario, Canada, 2015–2020: a whole population retrospective cohort study
Authors: Butler Amanda , Croxford Ruth , Bodkin Claire , Akbari Hanaya , Bayoumi Ahmed M , Bondy Susan J , Guenter Dale , McLeod Katherine E , Gomes Tara , Kanagalingam Tharsan , Kiefer Lori A , Orkin Aaron Michael , Owusu-Bempah Akwasi , Regenstreif Leonora , Kouyoumdjian Fiona
Published: May 2023

Objectives

To describe mortality due to opioid toxicity among people who experienced incarceration in Ontario between 2015 and 2020, during the fentanyl-dominant era.

Design

In this retrospective cohort study, we linked Ontario coronial data on opioid toxicity deaths between 2015 and 2020 with correctional data for adults incarcerated in Ontario provincial correctional facilities.

Setting

Ontario, Canada.

Participants

Whole population data.

Main outcomes and measures

The primary outcome was opioid toxicity death and the exposure was any incarceration in a provincial correctional facility between 2015 and 2020. We calculated crude death rates and age-standardised mortality ratios (SMR).

Results

Between 2015 and 2020, 8460 people died from opioid toxicity in Ontario. Of those, 2207 (26.1%) were exposed to incarceration during the study period. Among those exposed to incarceration during the study period (n=1 29 152), 1.7% died from opioid toxicity during this period. Crude opioid toxicity death rates per 10 000 persons years were 43.6 (95% CI=41.8 to 45.5) for those exposed to incarceration and 0.95 (95% CI=0.93 to 0.97) for those not exposed. Compared with those not exposed, the SMR for people exposed to incarceration was 31.2 (95% CI=29.8 to 32.6), and differed by sex, at 28.1 (95% CI=26.7 to 29.5) for males and 77.7 (95% CI=69.6 to 85.9) for females. For those exposed to incarceration who died from opioid toxicity, 10.6% died within 14 days of release and the risk was highest between days 4 and 7 postrelease, at 288.1 per 10 000 person years (95% CI=227.8 to 348.1).

Conclusions

The risk of opioid toxicity death is many times higher for people who experience incarceration compared with others in Ontario. Risk is markedly elevated in the week after release, and women who experience incarceration have a substantially higher SMR than men who experience incarceration. Initiatives to prevent deaths should consider programmes and policies in correctional facilities to address high risk on release.
FIND Stroke Recovery Study (FIND): rationale and protocol for a longitudinal observational cohort study of trajectories of recovery and biomarkers poststroke
Authors: Brännmark Cecilia , Klasson Sofia , Stanne Tara M , Samuelsson Hans , Alt Murphy Margit , Sunnerhagen Katharina S , Åberg N. David , Jalnefjord Oscar , Björkman-Burtscher Isabella , Jood Katarina , Tatlisumak Turgut , Jern Christina
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Comprehensive studies mapping domain-specific trajectories of recovery after stroke and biomarkers reflecting these processes are scarce. We, therefore, initiated an exploratory prospective observational study of stroke cases with repeated evaluation, theFIND Stroke Recovery Study. We aim to capture trajectories of recovery from different impairments, including cognition, in combination with broad profiling of blood and imaging biomarkers of the recovery.

Methods and analysis

We recruit individuals with first-ever stroke at the stroke unit at the Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Sweden, to FIND. The inclusion started early 2018 and we aim to enrol minimum 500 patients. Neurological and cognitive impairments across multiple domains are assessed using validated clinical assessment methods, advanced neuroimaging is performed and blood samples for biomarker measuring (protein, RNA and DNA) at inclusion and follow-up visits at 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, 2 years and 5 years poststroke. At baseline and at each follow-up visit, we also register clinical variables known to influence outcomes such as prestroke functioning, stroke severity, acute interventions, rehabilitation, other treatments, socioeconomic status, infections (including COVID-19) and other comorbidities. Recurrent stroke and other major vascular events are identified continuously in national registers.

Ethics and dissemination

FIND composes a unique stroke cohort with detailed phenotyping, repetitive assessments of outcomes across multiple neurological and cognitive domains and patient-reported outcomes as well as blood and imaging biomarker profiling. Ethical approval for the FIND study has been obtained from the Regional Ethics Review Board in Gothenburg and the Swedish Ethics Review Board. The results of this exploratory study will provide novel data on the time course of recovery and biomarkers after stroke. The description of this protocol will inform the stroke research community of our ongoing study and facilitate comparisons with other data sets.

Trial registration number

The protocol is registered athttp://www.clinicaltrials.gov, Study ID:NCT05708807.
Sample suitability and stability in different blood collection tubes for methanol, ethanol, isopropanol, acetone and glycols analysis
Authors: Cui Leonardo , Swanwick John G. , Chen Yu
Published: May 2023

Aim

To systematically examine the sample suitability and stability for volatile alcohols (methanol, ethanol and isopropanol with its metabolite acetone) and glycols (ethylene/propylene glycols, EG/PG) in different collection tubes.

Method

Two pools of whole blood were created and spiked with two levels of volatile alcohols and EG/PG. The spiked whole blood was added to six different blood collection tubes and were kept at different storage conditions. An aliquot was prepared from baseline replicates. Concentrations of volatile alcohols and glycols were analysed by gas chromatography.

Results

All blood collection tubes have demonstrated similar performance over different storage conditions, that is, to be statistically insignificant (p>0.05) with the only exception of PG at the high concentration of day 7 at 4°C condition (p<0.05 but clinically insignificant as <clinical acceptable limit (CAL) of 25%). Compared with the baseline, most volatile alcohols showed statistical significance (p<0.05) but were clinically stable for all storage conditions (biases<CAL). Similarly, compared with day 1, most EG/PG were stable up to 28 days at −20°C. Aliquoted samples were clinically stable up to 28 days at −20°C.

Conclusion

Grey/red/lavender, serum separator tube, plasma separator tube and the newly developed Barricor tubes are all suitable for volatile alcohols and EG/PG analysis. Primary samples are stable for 2 days room temperature, 14 days at 4°C and 28 days at −20°C for volatile alcohols, and 2 days room temperature, 7 days at 4°C, and 28 days at −20°C for EG. Aliquoted samples are stable up to 28 days at −20°C for all volatile alcohols and glycols.
Forest carbon management strategies influence storage compartmentalization in Nothofagus antarctica forest landscapes
Authors: Aravena Acuña Marie-Claire , Chaves Jimena E. , Rodríguez-Souilla Julián , Cellini Juan M. , Peña-Rojas Karen A. , Lencinas María V. , Peri Pablo L. , Martínez Pastur Guillermo J.
Published: May 2023

Silvopastoral systems are one of the strategies proposed to manage natural forests in southern Patagonia for livestock and timber purposes. In the context of climate change, it is necessary to design new management proposals to improve forest carbon sequestration. The objective was to quantify the innate carbon stocking (t C ha−1) variation in Nothofagus antarctica forests under natural dynamics in even- and uneven-aged structures, and in harvested and transformed stands. Carbon stocks were sampled in 145 forest stands, identifying 14 different components in above- and belowground strata. Results showed that the carbon content of the stands varied significantly with age (e.g., C contribution of different tree components), ranging from 289 to 386 t C ha−1. Deadwood was the variable that varied most among the successional stages. In harvested stands, carbon content changed significantly with increasing harvesting intensity (from 84.6% to 55.7%) and was lower than in non-harvested stands. These changes were reflected in reduced carbon accumulation in trees, deadwood, and soil layer and increased accumulation in understory plants. Silvopastoral system management can achieve a balance between productive objectives and maintenance of carbon stocks in managed forests, resulting in higher resilience and lower carbon losses, thus promoting sustainable forest management.
Simulation software of the JUNO experiment
Authors: Lin Tao , Hu Yuxiang , Yu Miao , Zhang Haosen , Blyth Simon Charles , Wang Yaoguang , Lu Haoqi , Jollet Cecile , de André João Pedro Athayde Marcondes , Deng Ziyan , Cao Guofu , An Fengpeng , Chimenti Pietro , Fang Xiao , Guo Yuhang , Huang Wenhao , Huang Xingtao , Li Rui , Li Teng , Li Weidong , Li Xinying , Liu Yankai , Meregaglia Anselmo , Qian Zhen , Ren Yuhan , Takenaka Akira , Wen Liangjian , Xu Jilei , You Zhengyun , Zhang Feiyang , Zhang Yan , Zhang Yumei , Zhu Jiang , Zou Jiaheng
Published: May 2023

The Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO) is a multi-purpose experiment, under construction in southeast China, that is designed to determine the neutrino mass ordering and precisely measure neutrino oscillation parameters. Monte Carlo simulation plays an important role for JUNO detector design, detector commissioning, offline data processing, and physics processing. The JUNO experiment has the world’s largest liquid scintillator detector instrumented with many thousands of PMTs. The broad energy range of interest, long lifetime, and the large scale present data processing challenges across all areas. This paper describes the JUNO simulation software, highlighting the challenges of JUNO simulation and solutions to meet these challenges, including such issues as support for time-correlated analysis, event mixing, event correlation and handling the simulation of many millions of optical photons.
A Deformation–Diffusion-Coupled Constitutive Theory for Hydrogels by Considering the Preparation Conditions
Authors: Xu Shuai , Liu Zishun
Published: May 2023

Hydrogels are excellent soft materials that can absorb large amounts of water and have applications ranging from biocompatible sensors to soft robots. Experiments have demonstrated that the equilibrium swelling state of hydrogels strongly depends on their preparation and external conditions, such as the as-prepared water content, cross-linking density, and temperature. However, traditional theories based on Flory’s work have failed to capture these dependence effects. In particular, these theories ignore the existence of solvents in the as-prepared state of hydrogels, making them unable to characterize the sensitivity of the swelling and mechanical behaviors to the as-prepared water content. In this study, we propose a constitutive theory that considers the preparation conditions based on statistical thermodynamics. Our theory can precisely predict the swelling ability of hydrogels under diverse preparation conditions and capture the phase transitions of temperature-sensitive hydrogels. We further derived the governing equations for large deformations and solvent diffusion considering their strong coupling effects. Based on our theory, the inhomogeneous deformation-induced solvent migration and delayed fracture of hydrogels were investigated. From theoretical investigations, we revealed the underlying mechanism of these interesting hydrogel behaviors. The theoretical results were further used to guide the design of diverse intelligent structures that can be applied as soft actuators, flexible robots, and morphing the growth of plants.
Composition of linear canonical Hankel pseudo-differential operators
Authors: Singh Ujjawala , Kumar Tanuj
Published: May 2023

In this paper, the study of linear canonical Hankel pseudo-differential operators has been extended to Sobolev-type spaces. Two versions of pseudo-differential operators involving linear canonical Hankel transformation are defined. We have shown that the pseudo-differential operators and composition of pseudo-differential operators are bounded in certain Sobolev-type spaces associated with linear canonical Hankel transformations.
On distance-s locating and distance-t dominating sets in graphs
Authors: Yi Eunjeong
Published: May 2023

Let [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] be positive integers, and let [Formula: see text] be a simple and connected graph with vertex set [Formula: see text]. For [Formula: see text], let [Formula: see text] denote the length of an [Formula: see text] geodesic in [Formula: see text] and let [Formula: see text]. Let [Formula: see text]. A set [Formula: see text] is a distance-[Formula: see text] locating set of [Formula: see text] if, for any distinct [Formula: see text], there exists a vertex [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text], and the distance-[Formula: see text] location number, [Formula: see text], of [Formula: see text] is the minimum cardinality among all distance-[Formula: see text] locating sets of [Formula: see text]. A set [Formula: see text] is a distance-[Formula: see text] dominating set of [Formula: see text] if, for each vertex [Formula: see text], there exists a vertex [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text], and the distance-[Formula: see text] domination number, [Formula: see text], of [Formula: see text] is the minimum cardinality among all distance-[Formula: see text] dominating sets of [Formula: see text]. The [Formula: see text]-location-domination number of [Formula: see text], denoted by [Formula: see text], is the minimum cardinality among all sets [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text] is both a distance-[Formula: see text] locating set and a distance-[Formula: see text] dominating set of [Formula: see text]. For any connected graph [Formula: see text] of order at least two, we show that [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text]. We characterize connected graphs [Formula: see text] satisfying [Formula: see text] equals [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], respectively. We examine the relationship among [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]; along the way, we show that [Formula: see text] if [Formula: see text]. We also show that there exist graphs [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text] can be arbitrarily large. Moreover, we examine some graph classes.
Some new results on captive dominating sets in graphs
Authors: Vaidya S. K. , Vadhel H. D.
Published: May 2023

A dominating set [Formula: see text] is said to be a captive dominating set of [Formula: see text] if [Formula: see text] has no isolated vertex ([Formula: see text] is a total dominating set) and each vertex [Formula: see text] is adjacent to at least one vertex in [Formula: see text]. A captive dominating set [Formula: see text] is said to be a minimal captive dominating set if no proper subset [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] is a captive dominating set. The minimum cardinality of a minimal captive dominating set of [Formula: see text] is called the captive domination number of [Formula: see text] which is denoted by [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we have characterized some results, determine the values of the domination-related parameters for the graph and its splitting graph, relate captive domination and packing number of a graph, etc. We have also constructed graphs for which [Formula: see text]
Cell-on-a-Chip Based Detection of Propranolol Hydrochloride Using Ag@CDs Nanocomposites
Authors: Sachdeva Damini , Agrawal Ved Varun
Published: May 2023

Herein, Ag@CDs nanocomposites were utilized for the detection of Propranolol hydrochloride (PPH). Structural characterization of the nanocomposites was performed using UV–vis. Spectroscopy, Dynamic light scattering, Zeta potential, and Contact angle measurements. Electrochemical analysis of the prepared electrode Ag@CDs/ITO was done using Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and Cyclic voltammetry. Three electrodes were fabricated on same ITO substrate through selective etching of ITO followed by deposition of different materials on each electrode. To the best of our knowledge, miniaturization of the bulky electrochemical measurement setup has not been reported yet. Moreover, the proposed setup was able to give good limit of detection of 0.38 μM and exhibited linear response in the range of 5–45 μM PPH. Also, the sensor was functional in artificial urine samples showing 81%–102% recoveries. The excellent stability, repeatability, and reproducibility of the proposed sensor validate its application in real sample analysis.
Integrated Combinatorial Synthesis, Characterization, and Test Platform for Lithium-Ion Battery Cathode Materials
Authors: Xiao Yunhao , Zheng Panni , Yang Tairan , Chakravarty Sriya Karambor , Rodríguez-López Joaquín , Urban Alexander , Li Zheng
Published: May 2023

An integrated combinatorial synthesis, characterization, and testing methodology and platform is proposed and developed for high-throughput exploration of Li-ion rechargeable battery cathode chemistries. This article describes the design of the platform’s combinatorial synthesis part and its prototype performance. A key design element is a multi-gear powertrain with a unique milling-force adjustable pestle that ensures high compatibility with varying types of electrode materials. To demonstrate the prototype, LiNiO2 was prepared via a solid-state route under various operating conditions. We evaluated the effects of processing parameters, including milling force and mixing speed, on the synthesized electrode’s physical properties and electrochemical behavior. The synthesized LiNiO2 materials show excellent electrochemical performance comparable to manually synthesized LiNiO2.
Tailored Fabrication of Defect-Rich Ion Implanted CeO2-x Nanoflakes for Electrochemical Sensing of H2O2
Authors: Luo Yueyue , Zheng Xiaoran , Vutukuri Corey Venkata , Ho Naomi , Atanacio Armand J. , Manohar Madhura , Arandiyan Hamidreza , Wang Yuan , Sorrell C.C. , S. Mofarah Sajjad , Koshy Pramod
Published: May 2023

As an alternative to H2O2 enzymatic biosensing devices, non-enzymatic CeO2-based biosensors have shown improved sensibility, robustness, and shelf lives. The redox capability in CeO2 and rapid switching between its oxidation states facilitate the formation of structural vacancy defects that serve as active sites. This work reports a novel approach for synthesis of defect-rich CeO2-x-based nanoflakes using a controllable electrochemical-based deposition at low temperatures (45°−65 °C) followed by low-energy ion implantation. Among the nanoflakes, Mo-implanted CeO2-x exhibited outstanding sensitivity of 4.96 × 10−5 A·mM−1 cm−2 within the linear range of 0.05–10 mM. Moreover, the ion-implanted samples yielded high sensing stability and electronic conductivity. The former was achieved through the multi-valence charge transfer between Ce and the implanted ions that caused the reduction of Gibbs free energies required for the formation/retention of the defects. The latter was due to the narrowing of the electronic bandgap of CeO2-x by creation of defect-induced midgap states.
Study of the Electrochemical and Self-healing Processes of Galinstan as an Anode Material for Li-ion Batteries
Authors: Mohimont Florent , Le Ruyet Ronan , Younesi Reza , Naylor Andrew J.
Published: May 2023

Alloy electrodes are attracting a lot of interest in the field of Li-ion batteries due to their high energy density. However, they suffer from large volume expansion and contraction during lithiation and delithiation, leading to rapid pulverization and disconnection. A strategy to avoid this is to use self-healing materials. Ga-based liquid alloys have been studied as self-healing electrodes because of their capacity to store Li and their liquid state at room temperature. The so-called “galinstan” (Ga0.77In0.15Sn0.08) exhibits the lowest melting temperatures and has also been used to add self-healing properties in composite electrodes. Nevertheless, its lithiation mechanism and its practical capacity still remain unknown. Also, the reversibility of the lithiation, which is crucial to ensure the self-healing properties offered by the liquid metal, requires investigation. In this work, electrochemical measurements were coupled with XRD and SEM analyses to better understand the redox processes, structural and morphological properties of galinstan as an electrode material in Li-ion batteries. It was shown that only Ga and In would react with Li to form LiGa and LiIn. The reversibility of these reactions and thus the self-healing ability of galinstan was demonstrated through observation of its liquid state before and after electrochemical cycling.
A Cutting-Edge Sensor to Detect Clenbuterol in Animal Biological Fluids
Authors: Thanh Nguyen Mau , Nguyen Do Mai , Dao Anh Quang , Quang Nguyen Minh , Toan Tran Thanh Tam
Published: May 2023

This research work successfully synthesized the MF (MgFe2O4) material at various hydrothermal temperatures. The XRD, BET, SEM and EDX characterization techniques were employed to confirm the formation of MF-190. The electrochemical characteristics of the glassy carbon electrode (GCE) were investigated after dropping MF-190 material with nanoscale particles onto its surface zone to generate the modified electrode-MF/GCE. Moreover, by applying this modified MF-190 electrode, CBT (clenbuterol) signals were detected by using two electrochemistry techniques, CV (cyclic voltammetry) and DPV (differential pulse voltammetry). The MF/GCE described the great responsiveness to CBT signals using the DPV method with a LOD (limit of detection) and LOQ (limit of quantification) of 0.45 μM and 1.56 μM, compared to the bare GCE. The linear CBT concentration ranges from 1 to 50 μM. Several interferents such as NH4NO3, CaCl2, Na2SO4, uric acid, terbutaline, salbutamol and paracetamol did not affect the CBT signals within the modified electrode’s operation. Furthermore, this work shows that the determination of CBT in real purine samples with the RSD values (not higher than 4.45%) and the recovery values (97.7%–104.3%) was suitable. In addition, compared to the previous reports, this original research work would emphasize the novel detection of CBT via the MF/GCE with the costless, simple, reliable technique.
The Dual Detection of Uric Acid and Paracetamol in Biological Fluids with the Modified “Green” Sensor through the Electropolymerization
Authors: Quang Nguyen Minh , Nguyen Do Mai , Dao Anh Quang , Toan Tran Thanh Tam
Published: May 2023

The PM material was effectively synthesized in this study via electropolymerization. The electrochemical characteristics of glassy carbon electrodes (GCE)@RGO were examined after the PM was polymerized onto its surface to create PM-RGO/GCE with the support of the CV technique. Furthermore, employing this modified electrode, URA and PCM were examined by applying CV and DPV electrochemical techniques. In comparison to employing the RGO/GCE, the modified PM-RGO/GCE electrode showed good responsiveness toward URA and PCM applying the DPV technique, with LOD values of 0.040μM for URA, and 0.025μM for PCM. The linear concentrations ranged from 0.06 to 1μM. These factors like Na+, SO42−, Ca2+, Cl−, NH4+, NO3−ions, ascorbic acid, dopamine, hypoxanthine and xanthine, did not interfere during the modified electrode’s operation. Within this paper, it is worth emphasizing that these analytical processes for the URA and PCM in actual sample solutions are more dependable than the HPLC method.
Aeroengine Blade Surface Defect Detection System Based on Improved Faster RCNN
Authors: Yixuan Liu , Dongbo Wu , Jiawei Liang , Hui Wang
Published: May 2023

Aiming at the difficulty of automatic blade detection and the discontinuous defects on the full image, an aeroengine blade surface defect detection system based on improved faster RCNN is designed. Firstly, a dataset of blade surface defects is constructed. To solve the problem that the original faster RCNN is hard to detect tiny defects, RoI align is adopted to replace RoI pooling in the improved faster RCNN and the feature pyramid networks (FPN) combined with ResNet‐50 are introduced for feature extraction. To address the issue of discontinuous defects on the full image, the nonmaximum suppression (NMS) algorithm is improved to ensure the continuity of defects. A four‐degree‐of‐freedom (4‐DOF) motion platform and an industrial camera are used to collect images of blade surfaces. The detection results generated by the improved faster RCNN are compared with the results of the unimproved method. The experimental results prove that the defect detection system based on the improved faster RCNN can realize automatic defect detection on the blade surface with high accuracy. It also solves the issues of tiny defect detection and discontinuous defects on the full result image of the blade.
Analysis of a Two-Phase MHD Free Convection Generalized Water–Ethylene Glycol (50 : 50) Dusty Brinkman-Type Nanofluid Pass through Microchannel
Authors: Khan Dolat , Almusawa Musawa Yahya , Hamali Waleed , Akbar M. Ali
Published: May 2023

The water–ethylene glycol (50 : 50) nanofluid has applications in the manufacture of polyester as a raw agent, air conditioning systems, antifreeze formulation, dehydrating agents in the gas industry, a precursor in the plastic industry, and convective heat transfer. These developments in nanotechnology and nanoscience have caught the interest of several researchers. Because it keeps machines and engines cool by reducing friction between their different parts, grease is a vital part of many machinery and engines. Also, due to the extensive use of fractional derivatives, this work seeks to evaluate the combined impacts of free convection flow and heat transfer, magnetic field, and Brinkman-type water–ethylene glycol (50 : 50) dusty nanofluid among microchannel. The flow that the buoyant force provides helps to carry heat naturally via convection. While the left plate moves at a consistent velocity and the right plate stays stationary, the fluid is also evenly dispersed with all dust particles that have a spherical form. Partial differential equations (PDE) are used to present the mathematical modeling. The resultant PDEs are generalized by utilizing the Caputo–Fabrizio fractional derivative. The problem’s closed-form solution is produced by combining a Laplace transformation with a finite sine Fourier transformation. It has also been studied that temperature, Brinkman nanofluid, and dust particle velocity relate to a variety of other factors, such as the magnetic parameter, Grashof number, dusty fluid parameter, and volume friction parameter. The graphical outcomes for the dusty fluid, Brinkman nanofluid, and temperature profiles are plotted using Mathcad-15. The Brinkman nanofluid and dusty fluid behave similarly for a variety of embedded factors. It is found that compared to the traditional one, the fractional dusty nanofluid model displays more realistic characteristics. The addition of nanoparticles in water–ethylene glycol (50 : 50) dusty nanofluid enhances the rate of heat transfer up to 41.04478% by increasing their volume fractional.
Antibiotic Resistance Profile of Indigenous Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus bulgaricus Strains Isolated from Traditional Yogurt
Authors: Moghimi Bahareh , Ghobadi Dana Maryam , Shapouri Reza , Jalili Maryam
Published: May 2023

Antibiotic resistance signifies a safety hazard to public health. Lactic acid bacteria, particularly, Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus bulgaricus, are useful organisms responsible for dairy fermentation. In keeping with this, they may transfer antibiotic resistance to human population. We conducted a study exanimated the antibiotic resistance pattern and distribution of antibiotic resistance genes of the S. thermophilus and L. bulgaricus strains isolated from traditional yogurt samples. Fifty-five traditional yogurt samples were collected, and S. thermophilus and L. bulgaricus strains were isolated using the microbial culture. The disk diffusion method in agar wells was utilized to assess the antibiotic resistance pattern of isolates against 13 antibiotic agents. The distribution of antibiotic resistance genes was assessed using conventional PCR. Lactobacillus bulgaricus and S. thermophilus were identified in 94.54% (52/55) and 87.27% (48/55) of yogurt samples, respectively. Both L. bulgaricus and S. thermophilus bacteria were simultaneously identified in 72.72% of samples. Streptococcus thermophilus isolates harbored the highest antibiotic resistance rate against tetracycline (31.25%), ampicillin (31.25%), gentamicin (25%), erythromycin (25%), penicillin (12%), and ciprofloxacin (20.83%). Lactobacillus bulgaricus isolates harbored the highest resistance rate against tetracycline (9.61%), ampicillin (9.61%), gentamicin (9.61%), and erythromycin (7.69%). Streptococcus thermophilus (33.33%) isolates harbored the higher distribution of multidrug resistance than L. bulgaricus (11.53%). aacA-D (20.83%), tetK (16.66%), ermA (14.58%), blaZ (14.58%), and gyrA (12.50%) were the most commonly detected antibiotic resistance genes in S. thermophilus. AacA-D (3.84%) and tet K (3.84%) were the most commonly detected antibiotic resistance genes in L. bulgaricus. Lactobacillus bulgaricus isolates did not harbor tetM, cat1, rpoB, vanA, linA, and strA-strB antibiotic resistance genes. Streptococcus thermophilus and L. bulgaricus strains used in traditional yogurt production can harbor antibiotic resistance genes and subsequently disseminate the resistance to human beings. Monitoring antibiotic resistance in fermented foods should be a common inspection for food quality.
The Broad Spectrum of TP53 Mutations in CLL: Evidence of Multiclonality and Novel Mutation Hotspots
Authors: Lazarian Grégory , Leroy Bernard , Theves Floriane , Hormi Myriam , Letestu Rémi , Eclache Virginie , Tueur Giulia , Ameur Adam , Bidet Audrey , Cornillet-Lefebvre Pascale , Davi Frédéric , Delabesse Eric , Estienne Marie-Hélène , Etancelin Pascaline , Kosmider Olivier , Laibe Sophy , Muller Marc , Nadal Nathalie , Naguib Dina , Pastoret Cédric , Poulain Stéphanie , Sujobert Pierre , Veronese Lauren , Imache Samia , Lefebvre Valérie , Cymbalista Florence , Baran-Marszak Fanny , Soussi Thierry ,   On behalf of the French Innovative Leukemia Organization (FILO)
Published: May 2023

TP53 aberrations are a major predictive factor of resistance to chemoimmunotherapy in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), and an assessment of them before each line of treatment is required for theranostic stratification. Acquisition of subclonal TP53 abnormalities underlies the evolution of CLL. To better characterize the distribution, combination, and impact of TP53 variants in CLL, 1,056 TP53 variants collected from 683 patients included in a multicenter collaborative study in France were analyzed and compared to UMD_CLL, a dataset built from published articles collectively providing 5,173 TP53 variants detected in 3,808 patients. Our analysis confirmed the presence of several CLL-specific hotspot mutations, including a two-base pair deletion in codon 209 and a missense variant at codon 234, the latter being associated with alkylating treatment. Our analysis also identified a novel CLL-specific variant in the splice acceptor signal of intron 6 leading to the use of a cryptic splice site, similarly utilized by TP53 to generate p53psi, a naturally truncated p53 isoform localized in the mitochondria. Examination of both UMD_CLL and several recently released large-scale genomic analyses of CLL patients confirmed that this splice variant is highly enriched in this disease when compared to other cancer types. Using a TP53-specific single-nucleotide polymorphism, we also confirmed that copy-neutral loss of heterozygosity is frequent in CLL. This event can lead to misinterpretation of TP53 status. Unlike other cancers, CLL displayed a high proportion of patients harboring multiple TP53 variants. Using both in silico analysis and single molecule smart sequencing, we demonstrated the coexistence of distinct subclones harboring mutations on distinct alleles. In summary, our study provides a detailed TP53 mutational architecture in CLL and gives insights into how treatments may shape the genetic landscape of CLL patients.
A Solution‐Based Tabu Search Algorithm for the Resource‐Constrained Project Scheduling Problem with Step Deterioration
Authors: Dai Huafeng , Li Lei , Mao Run , Liu Xingyue , Zhou Kun
Published: May 2023

This paper integrates the classical resource‐constrained project scheduling problem with step deterioration and accordingly presents a solution‐based tabu search (SB‐TS) algorithm to solve it with challenging computations. First, we choose successor list size as the priority rule to generate the initial solution of the presented methods. Next, the corresponding solution decoding and calculation ways are defined to update the related configuration at each iteration. Compared with the state‐of‐the‐art methods, in terms of the known datasets, the proposed SB‐TS finds the optimal solution for each instance in J30 and shows strongly competitive performance in J60, J90, and J120. Then, on newly generated datasets, where the step deterioration is attached to, the comparison experimental data state that the SB‐TS with high‐quality solution is superior to the move‐based tabu search (MB‐TS) algorithm. In addition, two key components are investigated to emphasize their attributions to the proposed algorithm.
Investigation of Virulence and Antibiotic-Resistance of Bacillus cereus Isolated from Various Spices
Authors: Torki Baghbadorani Sahar , Rahimi Ebrahim , Shakerian Amir
Published: May 2023

Spices and herbs are potential vectors for virulent and pathogenic micro-organisms, which cause illness in consumers, contribute to spoilage, and reduce the durability of foodstuffs. The present study aims to provide relevant data about virulence and antibiotic resistance of Bacillus cereus isolated from various spices. A total of 200 samples of 8 types of spices (black pepper, chilli, white pepper, cumin, cinnamon, turmeric, curry powder, and sumac) were collected from various markets, retail shops, and sucuk production premises located in the Isfahan province of Iran. Presumptive B. cereus strains were obtained using Bacara Agar plates after enrichment in saline peptone water and final colonies were identified using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Enterotoxin (HBL) and nonhaemolytic enterotoxin (NHE) production were assessed using the Duopath® Cereus Enterotoxins Test kit. The Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion method was applied as antibiotics susceptibility test. PCR was used to detect Emetic toxin gene (CES and CER) and enterotoxigenic toxin gene (cytK, nheA, hblC, and entFM). Results show a significant prevalence of B. cereus (42%) in spices. However, the spices meet food safety recommendations (<104 cfu/g). Antibiotics susceptibility test show alarming rate of resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics specially ampicillin (83.33%) and penicillin (82.14%). Concerning the toxin producing capacity more than half of the isolates (51.19%) produce NHE toxin and 27.38% produce HBL toxin. The most abundant gene were nheA, nheB, and nheC and a combination of 4 genes (entFM, nheA, hblC, and cytK) was detected in many isolates. In conclusion, the presence of multidrug resistant B. cereus strains carrying diarrhoeal toxin-encoding genes in spices intended for human consumption represents a serious health hazard. These results indicate the need for regular surveillance of the occurrence of B. cereus strains in spices and food products in Iran.
Delirium with Concurrent Use of Lithium and ECT and the Safety Implications: Case Reports and Review of the Literature
Authors: Ali Mustafa , Malathesh Barikar C. , Chatterjee Seshadri Sekhar , Das Soumitra , Pokhrel Prakriti , Hernandez Mary Elizabeth Trejo , Murnin John C.
Published: May 2023

Using electroconvulsive treatment and lithium together to treat acute manic episodes is common, but the effects of combining these therapies vary according to the literature. Some studies have found severe adverse side effects, while others have found the combination of both medications safe and helpful. To investigate potential adverse side effects, this study reports on two cases where bipolar affective disorder patients developed delirium after receiving electroconvulsive therapy and lithium concurrently. The delirium was attributed only to the combined administration of these medicines after ruling out other potential causes. Additionally, alterations in blood-brain barrier permeability, such as those caused by electroconvulsive therapy and age, increased the likelihood of delirium. As a result, caution should be taken when using this combination of medicines, especially in those predisposed to delirium. This study established links between these medications and adverse effects, such as delirium. Further research is necessary to determine the efficacy and risks of combining these medications, establish causality, and develop prevention strategies.
Isolation and Identification of Flavanone Derivative Eriodictyol from the Methanol Extract of Afzelia africana Bark and Its Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activities
Authors: Vigbedor Bright Yaw , Osei Akoto Clement , Neglo David
Published: May 2023

Background. Afzelia africana is a plant species with well‐documented ethnobotanical and medicinal properties. The plant is reported to have various secondary metabolites and had been applied for the treatment of various diseased conditions. Objectives. The study objectives include fractionation, isolation, purification, and characterization of eriodictyol from the bark of A. africana, and the determination of its antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. Methodology. The series of methodologies that were employed include fractionations and purification (column chromatography), characterization (HPLC, LC‐MS, IR, 1H, 13C, DEPT‐135, HSQC, and HMBC), antimicrobial assays (microbroth dilution and checkerboard assay), and antioxidant activities assays (ABTS and DPPH scavenging capacity). Results. The study reports the identification and characterization of eriodictyol from the bark of A. africana which exhibited potent antioxidant activities against ABTS and DPPH radicals with scavenging capacities (SC50) of 2.14 ± 0.05 and 2.51 ± 0.06 µg/mL, respectively. The compound exhibited its antimicrobial activity by reporting good bacteriostatic activities (MBC/MIC > 4) against Staphylococcus aureus (SA), methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and fluconazole‐resistant Candida albicans (CA2). Moreover, a broad spectrum of bactericidal effects (MBC/MIC ≤ 4) was reported against Streptococcus mutans (SM), Escherichia coli (EC), Bacillus subtilis (BS), Klebsiella pneumonia (KP), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA), Salmonella typhi (ST), and standard Candida albicans (CA1). The compound further exhibited synergistic effects against EC, KP, ST, and MRSA; ST; and CA2 when combined with ciprofloxacin, tetracycline, and nystatin, respectively. However, antagonistic effects were observed against PA and CA1 when combined with ciprofloxacin and ketoconazole, respectively. Conclusion. The study reports for the first time the identification of eriodictyol from the bark of A. africana which exhibited significant antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.
Influence of Metallic Particles on Properties of Aluminium Composites through Taguchi Technique
Authors: Venkatesh B. , Lakshmipathi Anantha Raman , Prakash T. , Rao Pothamsetty Kasi V. , Verma Rajesh , Nagabhooshanam N. , Yishak Simon
Published: May 2023

In this work, aluminium composites have been evaluated in terms of their characteristics and behaviour. Stirring metallics and a specific quantity of ceramic-derived silicon nitride resulted in AA6061 composites (Si3N4). The mechanical, corrosion, and tribological properties of composites were investigated. Tensile, corrosion, and hardness characteristics have been improved in composites with a constant weight percent of ceramic and advanced metallic fortification. The improved hardness of the composite has decreased wear and friction. Furthermore, by using ceramic strengthening with the metal, the impact strength of the composites was condensed. In addition to the research, the design of experiments method was used to optimize the important wear test elements such as reinforcement %, applied stress, sliding distance, and speed. Analysis of variance was used to find the most significant testing features and its interface with wear performance and the friction coefficient of the composite specimen.
An In silico Approach towards Finding the Cancer-Causing Mutations in Human MET Gene
Authors: Laskar Fayeza Sadia , Bappy Md. Nazmul Islam , Hossain Md. Sowrov , Alam Zenifer , Afrin Dilruba , Saha Sudeb , Ali Zinnah Kazi Md.
Published: May 2023

Mesenchymal–epithelial transition (MET) factor is a proto-oncogene encoding tyrosine kinase receptor with hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) or scatter factor (SF). It is found on the human chromosome number 7 and regulates the diverse cellular mechanisms of the human body. The impact of mutations occurring in the MET gene is demonstrated by their detrimental effects on normal cellular functions. These mutations can change the structure and function of MET leading to different diseases such as lung cancer, neck cancer, colorectal cancer, and many other complex syndromes. Hence, the current study focused on finding deleterious non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (nsSNPs) and their subsequent impact on the protein’s structure and functions, which may contribute to the emergence of cancers. These nsSNPs were first identified utilizing computational tools like SIFT, PROVEAN, PANTHER-PSEP, PolyPhen-2, I-Mutant 2.0, and MUpro. A total of 45359 SNPs of MET gene were accumulated from the database of dbSNP, and among them, 1306 SNPs were identified as non-synonymous or missense variants. Out of all 1306 nsSNPs, 18 were found to be the most deleterious. Moreover, these nsSNPs exhibited substantial effects on structure, binding affinity with ligand, phylogenetic conservation, secondary structure, and post-translational modification sites of MET, which were evaluated using MutPred2, RaptorX, ConSurf, PSIPRED, and MusiteDeep, respectively. Also, these deleterious nsSNPs were accompanied by changes in properties of MET like residue charge, size, and hydrophobicity. These findings along with the docking results are indicating the potency of the identified SNPs to alter the structure and function of the protein, which may lead to the development of cancers. Nonetheless, Genome-wide association study (GWAS) studies and experimental research are required to confirm the analysis of these nsSNPs.
Supplementary Table S1 from First-in-Human Study of the Radioligand 68Ga-N188 Targeting Nectin-4 for PET/CT Imaging of Advanced Urothelial Carcinoma
Authors: Duan Xiaojiang , Xia Lei , Zhang Zhuochen , Ren Yanan , Pomper Martin G. , Rowe Steven P. , Li Xuesong , Li Nan , Zhang Ning , Zhu Hua , Yang Zhi , Sheng Xinan , Yang Xing
Published: May 2023

Representativeness of study participants
Supplementary Methods S1 from First-in-Human Study of the Radioligand 68Ga-N188 Targeting Nectin-4 for PET/CT Imaging of Advanced Urothelial Carcinoma
Authors: Duan Xiaojiang , Xia Lei , Zhang Zhuochen , Ren Yanan , Pomper Martin G. , Rowe Steven P. , Li Xuesong , Li Nan , Zhang Ning , Zhu Hua , Yang Zhi , Sheng Xinan , Yang Xing
Published: May 2023

Supplementary Methods