bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling the Relationship between the Land Use/Land Cover Change and Land Surface Temperature in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
Authors: Olofin Emmanuel Oluwafemi , Adebayo Williams Oluwole , Akintola Olayiwola Akin
Published: July 2022

This study was designed to model the spatio-temporal pattern of Land Use/Land Cover (LU/LC) indices and its relationship with Land Surface Temperature (LST) in Ibadan Metropolis from 1988 to 2018. Four Landsat images of Ibadan metropolis for 1988, 1999, 2013 and 2018 were used in this study. Land surface temperature values of vegetation, open surfaces and built-up Land Use/Land Cover (LU/LC) analysis was carried out using ERDAS IMAGINE 9.2 in order to ascertain the areas covered by each land use type. The results of the study revealed that as the size of Built-up land use type increases and the size of the vegetation land use type decreases, the value of land surface temperature increases in relation to the increase in the size of built-up land use type and the decrease in the size of vegetation land use type from 1988 to 2018 in Ibadan Metropolis. This study can be useful in designing Urban Green Belts (UGB) and parks within the metropolis in order to mitigate problem of urban thermal discomfort in Ibadan, the state capital of Oyo State, Nigeria.
Cross sectional analysis of dietary quality among pregnant women in central South Africa: The NuEMI study
Authors: Berg Violet Louise van den , Jordaan Elizabeth Margaretha , Robb Liska , Ngounda Jennifer , Nel Mariette , Walsh Corinna May
Published: July 2022

Background: During pregnancy, poor dietary quality is linked to maternal complications and poor birth outcomes, but no dietary quality index for pregnancy has been developed using African data. This study aimed to determine the diet quality of South African pregnant women by applying the Diet Quality Index Adapted for Pregnant Women (IQDAG), developed in Brazil, to data collected in the NuEMI (Nutritional status of Expectant Mothers and their newborn Infants) study.Methods: The NuEMI study applied a descriptive study design to collect data from 681 pregnant women visiting an antenatal clinic at a regional hospital in Mangaung, central South Africa. The IQDAG was applied to dietary data collected with a quantitative food frequency questionnaire during structured interviews. Energy and nutrient intakes were quantified with the South African Medical Research Council Food Composition Database. The Women’s Dietary Diversity Score (WDDS) was applied to 24h-recall data obtained during the interviews. Associations of IQDAG scores, nutrient intakes, sociodemographic variables, WDDS and birth anthropometry were explored by contingency tables.Results: Participants had a median age of 31.9 years (IQR: 26.8‒36.7) and a median pregnancy stage of 32.0 weeks (IQR: 26.0‒36.0). The median total dietary quality score (61/100; IQR:53‒68) indicated that most of these women had a suboptimal diet. Only 2.5% had a good dietary quality, reaching at least 80% of the maximum IQDAG score that represents the minimum pregnancy recommendations. The median intakes for none of the nine components of the IQDAQ met the recommendations. Fruit, vegetables, legume, dietary calcium and omega-3 intakes were particularly low, while the intake of ultra-processed foods was above optimal. Most participants consumed only half of the recommended amounts of iron and folate from their diets. IQDAG scores were significantly (p<0.0001) associated with the dietary intakes of most nutrients, even after correction for energy intakes, and with dietary diversity (p<0.0001) and length-for-age z scores at birth (p=0.01).Conclusions: Pregnant women In a South African public health setting had poor to suboptimum dietary quality. Improving the dietary quality of pregnant women in low to middle-income countries would reduce the high financial and human cost of poor birth outcomes and maternal complications. The results also emphasise the importance of prenatal micronutrient supplementation.
A first approach to the estimation of seismic damage in Guatemala City: a seismic exposure model
Authors: Migoya Luis Diego Dávila , Ballarín José Manuel Cabrero , Beltetón Omar Flores
Published: July 2022

This study presents the analysis of the methodology of a seismic exposure model in Guatemala City. In the last years, progress in the investigation of regional seismic hazards has revealed the need to study the vulnerability of the buildings in Central America. In addition, in recent years there have been earthquakes of moderate magnitude in Guatemala causing damage in some areas of the country. An accurate exposure model and updated threat scenarios are essential for a detailed vulnerability study. This exposure study reveals the presence of structural typologies that are very vulnerable to earthquakes: adobe and simple masonry. Similarly, the study reveals the majority presence of reinforced masonry and the growing construction of reinforced concrete buildings. The characteristic of this model is the use of historical photographs of Guatemala City to determine the relationship between constructive typologies. The lack of exposure studies in the country has prevented the creation of policies to reduce vulnerability to a catastrophe like the earthquake in 1976. The analysis and methodology presented in this study is the best instrument for mitigation and prevention of actions to face a seismic catastrophe. Based on the results obtained, some matrices are proposed according to the age and material of the buildings. In this case, the application of the study contributes to defining the different measures for the reduction of seismic risk in Guatemala City.
Bone Loss is Ameliorated by Fecal Microbiota Transplantation through SCFA/GPR41/ IGF1 Pathway in Sickle Cell Disease Mice
Authors: Xiao Liping , Zhou Yanjiao , Bokoliya Suresh , Lin Qingqi , Hurley Marja
Published: July 2022

Bone loss is common in sickle cell disease (SCD), but the molecular mechanisms is unclear. Serum insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) was low in SCD subjects and SCD mice. To determine if decreased IGF1 associated with low bone mass in SCD is due to reduced SCFA production by gut microbiota, we performed reciprocal fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) between healthy control (Ctrl) and SCD mice. uCT and histomorphometry analysis of femur showed decreased bone volume/total volume (BV/TV), trabecular number (Tb.N), osteoblast surface/bone surface (Ob.S/BS), mineralizing surface/ bone surface (MS/BS), inter-label thickness (Ir.L.Th) in SCD mice were significantly improved after receiving Ctrl feces. Bone formation genes Alp, Col1, Runx2, and Dmp1 from SCD mice were decreased that were rescued after FMT from Ctrl feces. Transplantation of Ctrl feces increased the butyrate, valerate, and propionate levels in cecal content of SCD mice. Decreased G-coupled protein receptors 41 and 43 (GPR41 and GPR43) mRNA in tibia and lower IGF1 in bone and serum of SCD mice were partially restored after FMT from Ctrl feces. These data indicate that the healthy gut microbiota of Ctrl mice is protective for SCD bone loss through regulating IGF1 in return for impaired bacterial metabolites SCFAs.
Navigating Nutrition as a Childhood Cancer Survivor: Understanding Patient and Family Needs for Nutrition Support
Authors: Clarke Emma , Pugh Gemma , Heuvel Eveline van den , Kavanagh Erin , Cheung Pamela , Wood Andrew , Winstanley Mark , Braakhuis Andrea , Lovell Amy
Published: July 2022

Purpose: Nutrition challenges are common during childhood cancer treatment and can persist into survivorship, increasing the risk of non-communicable chronic diseases. Evidence based practice and implementation of nutrition support for childhood cancer survivors (CCS) has been poorly investigated and may influence the future health of survivors. This study aimed to explore the nutrition support needs of CCS and the barriers and facilitators to delivering follow-up services in New Zealand (NZ).Methods: Qualitative thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews were performed at a specialist paediatric oncology centre in NZ with CCS and their family (N = 20 individuals) and health professionals (N = 9). Results: Three key themes emerged from the analysis: 1) the current survivorship care pathway does not provide adequate nutrition support, 2) weight and dietary changes are common challenges, and 3) requirements for nutrition support in survivorship are varied. Common nutrition-related concerns included fussy eating, poor diet quality, difficulties tube weaning, and challenges with weight gain. Participants expressed a desire for education on healthy eating alongside information about cancer-related nutrition issues, such as learned food aversions. A preference for clear referral pathways and multifaceted interventions tailored to individual patient needs were identified by CCS and health professionals. Conclusion: The trifecta of treatment side effects, negative feeding practices, and poor messaging from health professionals creates a challenging environment to optimise nutrition. A stepped care model matching the intervention intensity with the CCS is required. Education for healthcare professionals will improve the delivery of timely nutrition support and monitoring practices.
Analysis of a Closed-Loop Digital Twin Using Discrete Event Simulation
Authors: Eyring Andrew , Hoyt Nathan , Tenny Joe , Domike Reuben , Hovanski Yuri
Published: July 2022

Given recent advancements in technology and recognizing the evolution of smart manufacturing, the implementation of digital twins for factories and processes is becoming more common and more useful. Additionally, expansion in connectivity, growth in data storage, and the implementation of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) allow for greater opportunities not only with digital twins but closed loop analytics. Discrete Event Simulation (DES) has been used to create digital twins and in some instances fitted with live connections to closely monitor factory operations. However, the benefits of a connected digital twin are not easily quantified. Therefore, a test bed demonstration factory was used, which implements smart technologies, to evaluate the effectiveness of a closed-loop digital twin in identifying and reacting to trends in production. This involves a digital twin of a factory process using DES. Although traditional DES is typically modeled using historical data, a DES system was developed which made use of live data with embedded machine learning to improve predictions. This model had live data updated directly to the DES model without user interaction, creating an adaptive and dynamic model. It was found that this DES with machine learning capabilities typically provided more accurate predictions of future performance and unforeseen near future problems when compared to the predictions of a traditional DES using only historic data, resulting in smarter decisions and implementation of more timely solutions.
Application of constrained implants hip arthroplasty in patients with hip neuromuscular disease
Authors: Zhang Yanfang , Liu Zeming , Liu Sikai , Li Mengnan , Liu Bo , Han Yongtai , Wu Tao
Published: July 2022

Background
It is well known that neuromuscular diseases increase the risk of complications after hip replacement. The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical manifestation and survival rate of total hip arthroplasty (THA) with constrained implants in inpatients with neuromuscular diseases.
Methods
A retrospective study evaluated the results of 17 THA in 17 patients with hip neuromuscular disease from June 2018 to April 2021. The average age at the time of operation was 66.71 years (33–86 years). The average follow-up time was 28.5 months (6–48 months). All surgery were operated through posterolateral approach. These are cementless implants.
Results
The incisions of all cases healed in one stage, without infection, injury of important nerves, blood vessels and other tissues, loosening of joint prosthesis and deep venous thrombosis of lower limbs. One of the patients developed a new cerebral infarction at postoperative, which affected the contralateral limb movement and seriously affect the postoperative efficacy observation. The otherswere followed up for 6 months to 48 months, with an average of (28.63 ± 13.10) months. All patients underwent THA with constrained implants. The hip joint function was evaluated according to Harris Hip score standard, excellent in 2 cases, good in 12 cases and poor in 2 cases.
Conclusion
THA combined with constrained implants has been shown to be effective in reducing the risk of dislocation and enhancing stability for patients with neuromuscular disease.
Modification of immune response by bacteriophage alters methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus infection
Authors: Suda Tomoya , Hanawa Tomoko , Tanaka Mayuko , Tanji Yasunori , Miyanaga Kazuhiko , Hasegawa-Ishii Sanae , Shirato Ken , Kizaki Takako , Matsuda Takeaki
Published: July 2022

There is an urgency to develop phage therapies for multi-drug resistant bacterial infections. However, although bacteria can be shown to be susceptible to phage therapy, it is not sufficient in some cases. PhiMR003 is a methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) phage previously isolated from sewage influent and demonstrates a highly lytic activity and a broad host range to MRSA clinical isolates in vitro. To investigate the potential of phiMR003 for the treatment of MRSA infection, the effects of phiMR003 on immune responses in vivo were analyzed using phiMR003 susceptible MRSA strains in a mouse wound infection model. Additionally, we assessed whether phiMR003 affects the immune response to infection caused by a non-susceptible MRSA strain. Interestingly, cases with both susceptible and non-susceptible MRSA strains infected with phiMR003 demonstrated decreased bacterial load, repressed inflammation and acceleration of wound closure. Moreover, the infiltration of inflammatory cells in infected tissue was altered by phiMR003. All these effects required the phage virion suggesting a phage-specific recognition and signaling response. Induced transcripts of proinflammatory cytokines by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) were repressed in mouse peritoneal macrophages. These results show that immune modulation occurring as a response to the phage itself improves the clinical outcomes of phage therapy.
Comparative assessment of some economic factors influencing environmental pollution in Iwo and Ibadan metropolis, southwestern Nigeria
Authors: Ogunbode Timothy O. , Jazat Joseph P. , Akande John A.
Published: July 2022

Environmental quality is a sustainability index and is also influenced by economic realities. In order to understand the practical values of related components, on area basis, a comparative study of economic factors which influence pollution in Iwo and Ibadan metropolis was carried out. The data for the study was generated through the administration of a total 1,400 structured questionnaires in both locations out of which 215 and 658 were retrieved from Iwo and Ibadan metropolis respectively. The survey showed that respondents of male gender, married status, tertiary education, Christianity sect, household size of 2 to 5 were 52%, 67%,83%, 67.1% and 55% respectively for Iwo, while it was 67%, 61%, 86%, 68%, 71.2% and 57% in the same order for Ibadan. Six economic factors were identified namely (1) Income level (2) accommodation and living standard (3) waste/noise management regimen (4) energy utilization (5) orthodox versus green economy status and (6) waste sorting. Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin sampling adequacy and Bartlett’s test of sphericity showed that the data was factorable at p < 0.005. The results of the analyses showed that three different economic variables each gave significant explanations for the pollution in Iwo and Ibadan. The significant variables extracted for Iwo explained 59.3% of the factors which were waste/noise management strategies (22.5%), accommodation and living standard (18.7%) and inclination towards green economy (18.3%). The three factors extracted for Ibadan explained 60.2% effect of all economic variables on pollution. These were accommodation and living standard (24.4%), inclination towards green economy (18.8%) and waste/noise management strategies (17.0%). Though two of the variables namely accommodation and living standard, and inclination towards green economy were common to both study areas, their respective importance and ordering varied. While waste and noise management were most significant in Iwo, the same variable had the least effect in Ibadan. Similarly, while inclination towards green economy was lowest in Iwo, it was the most significant in Ibadan. It is therefore concluded that the three economic factors influencing pollution in Iwo and Ibadan metropolis, though similar cannot be given a generalized weighting. In other words, targeted efforts towards resolving pollution-related matters from economic viewpoint should be specific for each administrative or local government area.
Factors Associated with Childhood Pneumonia and Care Seeking Practices in Nepal: Further Analysis of 2019 Nepal Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey
Authors: Dharel Sunita , Shrestha Binjwala , Basel Prem
Published: July 2022

Background: Acute Respiratory Infection (ARI) is still a major public health problem in Nepal. The prevalence of ARI among under five children is 2.1percent in 2019 and many children from marginalized families suffer disproportionally and many of them die without proper care and treatment. The objective for this study was to describe the factors associated with childhood pneumonia and care-seeking practices in Nepal. Methods: This was an analytical study based on further analysis of Nepal Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) 2019. MICS used multi-stage Probability Proportional to Size sampling for the survey. Data from 6,658 children were analyzed using SPSS 22. Chi-square test and logistics regression analysis was conducted with odds ratio and its corresponding 95% confidence interval after adjusting for confounders. Results: Children among the age group 0 to 23 months had 1.5 times higher odds of pneumonia as compared to age group 24 to 59 months (OR=1.5, CI 1.0 - 2.3) and children from rural area had 1.9 times odds of having pneumonia in comparison to urban area (AOR=1.9, CI 1.2 - 3.2). Underweight Children had 2.3 times greater odds of having pneumonia than normal weight children (AOR=2.3, CI 1.4 - 3.9). The odds of pneumonia was 2.5 higher among the children of currently smoking mothers as compared to children of non-smoker mothers (AOR=2.5, CI 1.1 – 5.7). Only one-fourth of children received treatment from public facilities. Among those who received treatment, less than half of the children did not receive appropriate treatment for pneumonia. One in ten children with pneumonia did not receive any kind of treatment at all. Conclusions: Pneumonia still kills so many children despite these deaths are preventable with simple interventions. Public health program and treatment services should be targeted to younger children, careful attention should be given to underweight children, and awareness and nutrition related activities should be focused on rural areas. Addressing inequity in access to and utilization of treatment of childhood illnesses should be prioritized by countries to avert these deaths of innocent children.
In vitro radical scavenging and in vivo anti-ulcer and analgesic activities of a metal-curcumin complex.
Authors: Joshi Abhishek , Lehene Shubham , Lasnapure Bhavika , Pawar Saurav , Kandipati Divyasree , Panchal Pragati , Soni Arun , Acharya Sanjeev
Published: July 2022

The present research aimed to study the in vitro radical scavenging activity, anti-ulcer, and analgesic activity of a metal-curcumin complex (MCC) using different models in mice and rats. The antioxidant activity was determined using DPPH free radical scavenging assay, FRAP assay, and ABTS radical cation scavenging assay. MCC showed an effective radical scavenging activity. Trolox was used as a standard in all three assays. Radical scavenging activity was compared with curcumin, showing that MCC was a more effective radical scavenger than curcumin. The anti-ulcerogenic effect was determined using the ethanol-induced method in Sprague Dawley rats, and it showed that MCC was able to produce gastroprotection at an oral dose of 100 mg/kg body weight (b.w). Further, we have also analyzed the analgesic potential of MCC. Analgesic activity of MCC was recorded using the hot plate method in Swiss albino mice. MCC exhibited analgesic activity at an oral dose of 50 mg/kg b.w. As a result, MCC may be beneficial in treating inflammatory illnesses.
The role of Ca 2+ signaling and InsP3R in the pathogenesis of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy
Authors: Pan Dan , Jiang Mengting , Tao Guoxian , Shi Jinmei , Song Zhiwei , Chen Ren , Wang Dongguo
Published: July 2022

To provide new insights for future treatment of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP), we evaluated serum Ca2+ levels and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (InsP3R) expression in the liver tissue of a rat ICP model. After establishing the model by injection of estradiol benzoate and progesterone into pregnant rats, animals were divided into normal control and ICP model groups. Expression of InsP3R protein in liver, and serum levels of Ca2+, glycocholic acid, and bile acid were detected. InsP3R mRNA and protein expression in the ICP model group were significantly lower compared with the normal group, as measured by qPCR and immunohistochemistry, respectively. Serum enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay results showed that levels of glycocholic acid and bile acid were significantly higher in the ICP model group compared with the normal group, and Ca2+ levels were significantly lower. Ca2+ levels were significantly and negatively correlated with the level of glycocholic acid. The observed decrease of Ca2+ was related to the increase of total bile acid, but there was no significant correlation. Our results reveal that InsP3R expression and serum Ca2+ levels were significantly decreased in liver tissue of ICP model rats, and Ca2+ levels were negatively correlated with the level of glycocholic acid.
Evaluation of Short-Term Outcomes of Preterm Infants in Two Periods: Vermont Oxford Network Results of a Developing Country Single-Centre Level IIIC Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Experience
Authors: Yilmaz Aslan , Cebi Memnune Nur , Yilmaz Gizem , Aydin Sümeyye Nur , Erginöz Ethem , Vural Mehmet , Perk Yildiz
Published: July 2022

Purpose: We aimed to compare the short-term outcomes of infants from our level IIIC neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) in two different periods. Method: In this cohort study, data from preterm infants (≤29 weeks and birth weight <1500 g) registered in the Vermont Oxford Network (VON) system were divided into two periods, the first period between January 1, 2005, and December 31, 2009, and the second between January 1, 2010, and December 31,2019.Results: There was no difference in the distribution of preterm infants according to their gestational age subgroups (p=0.169). Although the survival rate increased significantly in the second period (48.1% vs. 64.3%, (p<0.001), there was no difference in terms of survival without morbidity (p=0.480). Conclusion: Analysis of NICU data, through rigorous methods may provide opportunities for the development of quality improvement projects to improve the quality of health care in developing countries.
Hypoparathyroidism Retardation and Dysmorphism syndrome due to mutation in Tubulin-specific chaperone E gene as a cause of combined immune deficiency
Authors: David Odeya , Kristal Eyal , Ling Galina , Broides Arnon , Hadad Nurit , Shubinsky George , Nahum Amit
Published: July 2022

Background: Hypoparathyroidism, retardation, and dysmorphism (HRD) syndrome is a disease composed of hypoparathyroidism, growth retardation, developmental delay and typical dysmorphic features, caused by Tubulin-specific chaperone E gene mutation. Many patients succumb in infancy due to overwhelming infections mainly caused by Pneumococcu s spp. Knowledge related to the immune system in these patients is scarce. Purpose: To define the immune phenotype of a cohort of HRD patients including cellular, humoral and neutrophil functions. Methods: The study included HRD patients followed at Soroka University Medical Center. Clinical and immunological data were obtained, including immunoglobulin concentrations, specific antibodies titers, lymphocytes subpopulations, lymphocyte proliferation and neutrophil functions. For detailed methods, please see the Methods section in this article's Online Repository. Results: Nine patients (5 females and 4 males) were enrolled, aged 6 months to 15 years. All received Amoxicillin prophylaxis as part of a routine established previously. Three patients had bacteremia with klebsiella , shigella spp. and Candida. Two patients had confirmed Corona Virus associated Disease 19 (COVID19), both died from this infection. All patients had normal to high IgA level, low anti- Pneumococcal antibodies, and reduced frequency of naive B cell with increased frequency of CD21 low /CD27 - B cell. All patients had abnormal T cell population's distribution, including reduced terminally differentiated effector memory CD8, inverted CD4/CD8 ratio, and poor lymphocytes mitogen induced proliferation. Neutrophil Superoxide production and chemotaxis were normal in all patients tested. Conclusion: HRD is a combined immune deficiency (CID) with severe invasive bacterial and viral infections
Effect of Surface Cleaning Process on Wafer Bonding of silicon and Pyrex Glass
Authors: Du Chao , Zhao Yali , Li Yong
Published: July 2022

Anodic bonding is a reliable packaging method for MEMS devices and the surface properties of wafer directly affects the bonding efficiency.Therefore, the surface treatment of the wafer to be bonded is a very necessary step.Herein,the effects of three different surface cleaning processes on the wafer surface were investigated by atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, infrared experiments and anodic bonding experiments.By analysis,in the anodic bonding of the RCA solution cleaned wafer and Pyrex glass,the bonding interface can be more closely attached,the properties of this surface are the best.The anodic bonding experiments of wafer and Pyrex glasses show that the bonding current increases with the applied voltage and the bonding time decreases accordingly.This is most evident in the case of RCA cleaning.From the SEM images, as the bonding voltage increases,the bonding interface becomes more and more uniform and there are no obvious voids and voids.With the influence of strong electric field and temperature field,an irreversible chemical reaction occurs at the bonding interface and a bonding layer is formed, which is the key to the successful bonding.
A collusion-resistant certificateless provable data possession scheme for shared data with user revocation
Authors: Yang Guang , Han Lidong , Bi Jingguo , Wang Fuqun
Published: July 2022

Cloud storage service can provide a lot convenience for users to collect, store and share data within a group. However, there are some secure issues, one of which is that the cloud server may cheat users for a good reputation when the data is lost. A classical solution to deal with it is provable data possession (PDP) protocols. Most of PDP protocols are relied on either the public key infrastructure or identity-based cryptography. However, certificate management and key escrow issues place a significant burden on this. Furthermore, revoking the group's illegal users is a critical issue for PDP schemes. To address these problems, we put forward a certificateless PDP scheme for shared data with user revocation. Our proposed scheme not only achieves efficient user revocation but also withstands collusion attack. We also give a formal proof of security of our proposed scheme without random oracle model. Experimental results and analysis show that our scheme is quite effective in data auditing, verification, and user revocation.
Air Ionization in Self-Neutralizing Air-Breathing Plasma Thruster
Authors: Taploo Anmol , Lin Li , Keidar Michael
Published: July 2022

The paper describes an arc electron source (AES) for air ionization applications in a self-neutralizing air-breathing plasma thruster (SABPT). AES is an electron source with a prominent level of electron energy control that is required for SABPT. The mean energy of the electrons in AES is controlled by changing the grid voltage in the range of 0-300V. The Langmuir/Faraday probes were used to obtain ion/electron current, electron temperature, and electron density as a function of pressure and electron energy. Ion current measurements concerning distance from the source were obtained as a function of pressure and grid voltage. The optical emission spectroscopy was used to obtain electron temperature, spectral intensities, and ion formation rate. Additionally, a drift tube based on radial magnetic field electron confinement was designed to detect the presence of negative ions. It has been shown that both positive and negative ions can be produced thus providing conditions for SABPT.
Fabrication of polyaniline/Zinc oxide nanocomposites: Synthesis, characterization and adsorption of methylene orange
Authors: Alardhi Saja M. , Abdalsalm Alyaa H. , Ati Ali A. , Abdulkareem Makarim H. , Ramadhan Ahmed A. , Taki Malaa M. , Abbas Zeena Yassen
Published: July 2022

Polyaniline PANi/zinc oxide ZnO nanocomposite has been chemically synthesized by using formic acid. ZnO/PANi nanocomposites containing different weight content of ZnO nanoparticles (10, 20, and 30 wt%). ZnO nanoparticles were prepared by co-precipitation method. Characteristics such as structural, morphological and absorption of the prepared nanocomposites were studied by XRD, FTIR, SEM and UV–vis spectra. X-ray diffraction of zinc oxide nanoparticles confirmed formation of hexagonal wurtzite crystalline structure, also the substituted zinc oxide nanoparticles in different percentage to semi-crystalline polyaniline indicating nearly the same crystalline structure of ZnO/PANi nanocomposites. The Fourier Transform Infrared Spectra (FT-IR) of ZnO nanoparticles, PANi and their composites have been analyzed in the frequency range between 400–4000 cm− 1. The characteristic FT-IR peaks of ZnO nanoparticles show shifts to lower wave numbers in all composites. These observed effects may be due to conjugation and some chemical interactions between ZnO nanoparticles and PANI molecular chain. The results confirmed that the PANI successfully grown on surface of ZnO nanoparticles. The ZnO nanoparticles, PANI and ZnO/PANi nanocomposites were further applied to remove methylene orange dye, the effect of pH, initial dye concertation and ZnO nanoparticles dose were investigated via a batch experimental. According to the results, that the hybrid composite of ZnO/PANi increased the photo degradation of methylene orange dye molecules in aqueous solution compared with parent materials. Maximum removal efficiencies at optimum conditions were higher than 97% at pH 11, concentration of dye:10 mg/l, time equal 40 min and dose 0.1 g of PANi/ZnO.
The Impact of Geologic and Structural Settings on Radioactivity: A Case Study From Sahab Area, Jordan
Authors: Al-Taj Masdouq M. , Al-Bataina Barakat A. , Al-Qawasmeh Ahmad N. , Al-Bataina Bilal B.
Published: July 2022

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Identifying and Addressing Challenges to Antimicrobial Use Surveillance in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: Experiences & Lessons Learned from Tanzania and Uganda
Authors: Kiggundu Reuben , Lusaya Edgar , Seni Jeremiah , Waswa JP , Kakooza Francis , Tjipura Dinah , Kikule Kate , Muiva Cecilia , Joshi Mohan P. , Stergachis Andy , Kitutu Freddy Eric , Konduri Niranjan
Published: July 2022

Background
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global health security threat and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. One of the key drivers of AMR is the inappropriate use of antibiotics. A key component of improving antibiotic use is conducting antimicrobial use (AMU) surveillance.
Methods
USAID Medicines Technologies and Pharmaceutical Services Program has supported the implementation of antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) activities, including setting up systems for AMU surveillance in Tanzania and Uganda. Results from both countries have been previously published. However, additional implementation experience and lessons learned from addressing challenges to AMU surveillance have not been previously published and are the subject of this article.
Results
The team identified challenges including poor quality data, low digitalization of tools, and inadequate human resources including both financial and human resources. To address these gaps, the Program has supported the use of continuous quality improvement approaches addressing gaps in skills, providing tools, and developing guidelines to fill policy gaps in AMU surveillance. Recommendations to fill these gaps, based on the Potter and Brough systematic capacity building model have been proposed.
Conclusions
Strengthening AMU surveillance through using a capacity-building approach will fill gaps and strengthen efforts for AMR control in both countries.
Learning Single-Cell Perturbation Responses using Neural Optimal Transport
Authors: Bunne Charlotte , Stark Stefan , Gut Gabriele , Castillo Jacobo Sarabia del , Levesque Mitchell , Lehmann Kjong Van , Pelkmans Lucas , Krause Andreas , Rätsch Gunnar , *
Published: July 2022

Understanding and predicting molecular responses in single cells upon chemical, genetic, or mechanical perturbations is a core question in biology. Obtaining single-cell measurements typically requires the cells to be destroyed. This makes learning heterogeneous perturbation responses challenging as we only observe unpaired distributions of perturbed or nonperturbed cells. Here we leverage the theory of optimal transport and the recent advent of convex neural architectures to present CellOT, a framework for learning the response of individual cells to a given perturbation by coupling these unpaired distributions. We achieve this alignment with a learned transport map that allows us to infer the treatment responses of unseen untreated cells. CellOT outperforms current methods at predicting single-cell drug responses, as profiled by scRNA-seq and a multiplexed protein imaging technology. Further, we illustrate that CellOT generalizes well in unseen settings by (a) predicting the scRNA-seq responses of heldout lupus patients exposed to IFN-β and (b) modeling the hematopoietic developmental trajectories of different subpopulations. We expect CellOT to lay the grounds for delineating the causes of heterogeneous single-cell responses to perturbations and predicting patient-specific drug response landscapes instead of population averages.
Activity origin of atomically dispersed Fe-N-C oxygen reduction catalyst by spin state manipulation
Authors: Liu Fan , Shi Chengxiang , Pan Lun , Huang Zhen-Feng , Zhang Xiangwen , Fang Yunming , Zou Ji-Jun
Published: July 2022

Atomically dispersed metal-nitrogen carbon (M-N-C) catalyst with eg = 1 are believed as very active for oxygen reduction reaction, however the activity origin of spin state manipulation is unclear. Here, using Fe-N-C as a modeled catalyst, we developed a facile approach to manipulate its spin state from low-spin to medium-spin state (FeSAC-NC, eg = 1) by utilizing the secondary coordination sphere effect of adjacent N = C-N moieties. The presence of N = C-N configurations with high electronegativity modify the degree of hybridization between Fe 3dz2, 3dxz (3dyz) and oxygen-containing intermediates π* orbitals, leading to an ideal balance between O2 activation and *OH desorption. More impressively, we found the catalysts with eg = 1 in their metal centres may show very different activity, and the magnetic moment of 3dxz + 3dyz as descriptor can accurately predict the ORR activity. Benefiting from the regulated coordination and electronic structures, the designed FeSAC-NC catalyst exhibits 3-fold mass activity and 7-fold specific activity than Pt/C, respectively.
Quality of life in pregnancy after percutaneous closure of atrial septal defect guided by transthoracic echocardiography
Authors: Qiu Zhi-Huang , Zong Zhen-Fang , Wu Qing-Song , Xiao Jun , Chai Tian-Ci , Chen Xiao-Dong , Shen Yue , Chen Liang-Wan
Published: July 2022

Purpose: We evaluated quality of life (QoL) in pregnant women who underwent transthoracic echocardiography-guided percutaneous closure of atrial septal defects (ASDs).Methods: A total of 45 pregnant women underwent transthoracic echocardiography-guided percutaneous closure of ASD. We assessed QoL using the short-Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36), and compared results between preoperative and postoperative patients, as well as between those with ASD and healthy pregnant women in their second and third trimesters of pregnancy.Results: All patients showed improved right ventricular function after operation, and had an NYHA classification of ClassⅠ. Mean SF-36 scores of the postoperative group were better on all sub-scales than those of the pre-operation group (p<0.05), with the exception of role-emotional and mental health. Mean scores for the preoperative group were also lower on all sub-scales than those of healthy pregnant controls (p<0.05), with the exception of role-physical, role-emotional, and mental health. There was no difference between the postoperative group and healthy pregnant controls. In a subgroup analysis, scores were better in some dimensions (social functioning, and role-emotional) for post-operative patients in the 31-40 years of age group and the group on their second or third pregnancies than those of the 20-30 years of age group and the group on their first pregnancies (p<0.05).Conclusion: After closure of ASD, QoL in pregnant women was improved. In a subgroup analysis, the younger women and those on their first pregnancy performed more poorly in some dimensions. This suggested that these groups should receive more proactive intervention.
Retroperitoneal malignant solitary fibrous tumor with two recurrences and lymphatic metastases：a case report
Authors: Liu Lei , Chen Shiqiang , Wang Lihua
Published: July 2022

Malignant solitary fibrous tumor in the retroperitoneum is rare. We report a 67-year-old male with retroperitoneal malignant solitary fibrous tumor for more than 10 years, which recurred the second time accompanied by lymphatic invasion and lymph node metastasis. Computed tomography scanned multiple retroperitoneal masses and the tumor was widely implanted in the abdominal cavity. Histopathological examination showed that the tumor was mainly composed of short spindle cells, lining up sparse and dense areas. Mitotic figures were noted generally 6–8 per 10 high power fields (HPF) with local necrosis. The tumor invaded the circumferential liver, intestines, lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes. Combined with the immunohistochemical results, it was diagnosed as malignant solitary fibrous tumor, growing up again just two months after the latest surgery. Retroperitoneal malignant solitary fibrous tumors with repeated relapses, infiltrative growth and lymphatic metastasis suggest the need for careful and long follow-up.
Multidimensional and Quantitative Interlinking Approach for Scientific Articles
Authors: Lu Yihang , Chen Zugang , Li Guoqing
Published: July 2022

Under big scholarly data, a longstanding challenge is to help researchers to find scientific articles they would like. Current information retrieval and recommendation systems have effectively solved this problem to some extent, but there are currently difficulties with both cross-repository retrieval and recommendation. Linked Data can effectively interlink resources from different repositories on the Web, but due to the lack of fine-grained interlinking, ranking problem for recommendation remains challenging. In this paper, we proposed an multidimensional and quantitative interlinking approach for scientific articles based on Quantitative Linked Data that express the interlinked type as well as the interlinked granulity between two scientific articles. Two interlinking networks, a theme-related network constructed by semantic predicates and quantitative values obtained from the proposed semantic similarity algorithm, and a time-related network consisting of time-topological predicates and quantitative values generated by the proposed time similarity algorithm, are created. As implementation, we developed a geoscience domain retrieval and recommendation system based on the proposed method and evaluated the proposed method by comparing with the recommended results based on the proposed method and existing methods, respectively. Relevant evidence shows that the proposed method is effective in enhancing different users’ experience of recommendation upon ensuring interlinking under heterogeneous metadata standards.
The detailed population genetic structure of the rare endangered latid fish akame Lates japonicus with extremely low genetic diversity revealed from single-nucleotide polymorphisms
Authors: Naito Takuya , Nakayama Kouji , Takeshima Hirohiko , Hashiguchi Yasuyuki , Akita Tetsuya , Yamasaki Yo Y. , Mishina Tappei , Takeshita Naohiko , Nagano Atsushi J. , Takahashi Hiroshi
Published: July 2022

Accurate knowledge of spatial population structure is crucial for species conservation and management, but low genetic diversity of endangered species makes it difficult to ascertain this information. In the Japanese lates or akame, Lates japonicus, an endangered fish known to have extremely low genetic diversity among vertebrates, mtDNA and AFLP marker analyses failed to clearly partition individuals into the two main distribution areas (Kochi and Miyazaki prefectures), although a weak but significant genetic difference between these regions was detected. Here, we conducted individual-based clustering analysis and sibship reconstruction to evaluate the species’ population genetic structure by using 282 yearlings collected from four sites in Kochi and Miyazaki prefectures. We used single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers from double-digest restriction-site-associated DNA sequencing (ddRAD-seq). Although our data revealed extremely low genome-wide nucleotide diversity (π = 0.00006) in akame, the clustering analysis showed a clear genetic difference between the two regions, with a small number of migrants and individuals with admixed ancestry. Sibship analysis estimated that the only full-sib pairs of individuals were from the same prefecture and no pairs were from different prefectures. From these results, we conclude that the akame population of Kochi and Miyazaki prefectures are different management units, and for revealing detailed population genetic structure of endangered species which has low genetic diversity, it is effective to conduct individual-based analysis and sibship reconstruction by using juvenile samples and many SNPs from ddRAD-seq.
Bidirectional associations between mental health problems and language ability across 8 years of childhood
Authors: Martinez Nathalie Tamayo , Wareham Helen , Franken Marie-Christine , McKean Cristina , Tiemeier Henning , Jansen Pauline W.
Published: July 2022

Background
Research examining the conjunct development of mental health and language development is limited as few studies had a longitudinal design, mostly with a short follow-up period. Moreover, most studies did not evaluate whether internalizing symptoms and externalizing symptoms are independently associated with language ability. This study examines bidirectional associations between internalizing symptoms, externalizing symptoms and language ability in childhood in a large, population-based cohort.
Methods
Longitudinal data from the Millennium Cohort Study, a cohort of children in the United Kingdom followed from birth to 11 years (n = 10,878; 50.7% boys), was analysed. Internalizing and externalizing symptoms were based on parent reports. Language ability was assessed by trained interviewers at ages 3, 5, 7 and 11 years. Structural Equation Models (SEM) were performed, including random-intercept cross-lagged panel models (RI-CLPM) and cross-lagged panel models (CLPM).
Results
Internalizing symptoms, externalizing symptoms and language ability were stable over time and comorbid with each other from early life. Over time, externalizing symptoms in early childhood were negatively associated with language skills acquisition and positively associated with later internalizing symptoms. In late childhood, language ability was negatively associated with later internalizing and externalizing symptoms.
Conclusion
The early start, comorbidity and persistent nature of internalizing symptoms, externalizing symptoms and language ability highlights the importance of comprehensive assessments in young children who present problems in one of these domains. Specifically, among children in the early grades of elementary school, those with language difficulties may benefit from careful monitoring as they are more likely to develop mental health symptoms.
Application of underwater imagery for the description of upper sublittoral benthic communities in glaciated and ice-free Arctic fjords
Authors: Medelytė Saulė , Šiaulys Andrius , Daunys Darius , Włodarska-Kowalczuk Maria , Węsławski Jan Marcin , Olenin Sergej
Published: July 2022

Complex bottom topography and the presence of floating ice significantly complicates the use of traditional sampling methods in Arctic coastal waters, forcing to look for alternative approaches. One such technique is underwater imagery, which has grown in popularity in recent decades based on its effectiveness in hard-to-reach places. We demonstrate that an underwater video mosaic can be a reliable method for comparative analysis of Arctic habitats under the glacier influence and glacier influence-free habitats. The filming was carried out in the upper sublittoral (2-65 m) of Hornsund and Isfjorden areas, representing two ice-free and two glaciated bays. Video footage was obtained using an ROV mounted and "drop-down" video cameras and transformed into 148 video mosaics. Based on the lowest possible taxonomic level, 31 biological features (morphospecies) were identified and ascribed to benthic functional groups based on their feeding and mobility type. The morphospecies and functional groups were used for the comparative analysis of benthic communities. The study found that melting glaciers have a stronger impact on the structure of benthic communities across geographical areas. Morphological and functional composition of macrofauna reflected conditions in glacier influence and influence-free, and turbid water riverine bays. We discovered greater abundances of motile scavengers in glacier influence bays whereas glacier influence-free bay had more sessile suspension filters and glacier influence-free riverine bay was dominated by discreetly motile and deposit feeders. Underwater imagery mosaics have proven to be a fairly reliable tool for fieldwork-efficient quantitative characterization of benthic communities in the hard-to-reach Arctic's upper sublittoral.