bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The site-city interaction effect on structural responses and its application to fragility analysis
Authors: Tian Yuan , Liu Simeng , Chen Siying , Gu Donglian
Published: October 2023

Seismic fragility analysis is a crucial tool for assessing the seismic performance of buildings. In areas with dense clusters of tall buildings, the significant site-city interaction (SCI) effect alters wave propagation mechanisms, influencing the seismic fragility of structures. However, utilizing the incremental dynamic analysis method directly to calculate the seismic fragility of buildings considering the SCI effect encounters two main challenges. Firstly, it is unclear how many seismic scenarios need to be analyzed to fully capture the distribution of the SCI effect on building responses. Secondly, reducing the computational workload arising from the SCI effect and incremental dynamic analysis is a pressing concern. To address these challenges, this study examines the Shanghai Central Business District as a case study and employs a nonlinear numerical coupling scheme to analyze the SCI effect on building responses under different seismic wave inputs. The study investigates the minimum number of selected input motions required to achieve different accuracy levels. According to the findings, a minimum of seven pairs of seismic wave inputs are suggested for the SCI effect analysis. Moreover, the analysis demonstrates that low-rise buildings exhibit significantly larger variations in SCI-induced response changes compared to tall buildings. Therefore, a seismic fragility analysis method considering the SCI effect is proposed for low-rise buildings. This method offers a substantial reduction in computational workload while accurately capturing the SCI effect on building responses.
Time, temperature and media: the three keys to improve the recovery of Campylobacter fetus subsp. venerealis from preputial bull samples.
Authors: Polo Coral , Teresa García-Seco , Nerea García , Víctor Fernández , Briones Víctor , Alberto Díez-Guerrier , Álvarez Julio , Domínguez Lucas , Marta Pérez-Sancho
Published: October 2023

The isolation of Campylobacter fetus subsp. venerealis (Cfv) from clinical samples is the gold standard for confirming cases of bovine genital campylobacteriosis, an important cause of infertility in cattle and a potential public health concern. Furthermore, isolation is also necessary for the development of autologous vaccines, characterization of strains for antimicrobial susceptibility patterns, etc. Nevertheless, the sensitivity of culture methods is usually low, and there is no standardized protocol to maximize the recovery of Cfv from clinical samples. The aim of the current study is to design a protocol for the culture of Cfv from preputial samples by evaluating the combination of different transport, enrichment and culture media considering the impact of certain factors (time between collection and enrichment, temperature, and use of filters). The use of modified Lander’s transport medium and storing the sample for 24h at 21 ± 2 ºC led to the highest recovery of Cfv CFUs. In contrast, the storage of the samples during 24–48 h in PBS and Thomann rarely allowed the recovery of Cfv regardless of the temperature. The enrichment medium yielding the best results was Preston (significantly higher recovery than Brucella medium), while Cfv could not be isolated with Bolton. Regarding our diagnostic assay (using Lander as transport medium and Preston as enrichment medium), the best protocol in terms of maximizing Cfv recovery as well as limiting contaminations is to culture the samples in i) solid media Preston or Skirrow, and ii) using 0.65 µm filters and incubating plates at 37 ºC in microaerophilic conditions.
Development, identification, and utilization of wheat–tetraploid Thinopyrum elongatum4EL translocation lines resistant to stripe rust
Authors: Gong Biran , Chen Linfeng , Zhang Hao , Zhu Wei , Xu Lili , Cheng Yiran , Wang Yi , Zeng Jian , Fan Xing , Sha Lina , Zhang Haiqin , Chen Guoyue , Zhou Yonghong , kang Houyang , Wu Dandan
Published: October 2023

Tetraploid Thinopyrum elongatum is a valuable source of genes useful for improving the resistance of wheat to diseases such as stripe rust, powdery mildew, and Fusarium head blight. There is an urgent need for new tetraploid Th. elongatum disease resistance genes that can be transferred to wheat via alien translocation lines. We previously reported that chromosome 4E of the 4E (4D) substitution line carries all-stage stripe rust resistance genes. To optimize the utility of these genes in wheat breeding programs, we developed translocation lines by inducing chromosomal structural changes through 60Co-γ irradiation and developing monosomic substitution lines. In total, 53 plants with different 4E chromosomal structural changes were identified. Three homozygous translocation lines (T4DS·4EL, T5AL·4EL, and T3BL·4EL) and an addition translocation line (T5DS·4EL) were identified on the basis of GISH, FISH, FISH-painting, and wheat 55K SNP array analyses. These four translocation lines, which contained the chromosome 4EL, exhibited enhanced stripe rust resistance. Thus, the resistance gene (tentatively named Yr4EL) was localized to chromosome 4EL of tetraploid Th. elongatum. By examining the diploid Th. elongatum genome, 48 SSR markers specific to chromosome 4E were obtained, of which 32 co-segregated with chromosome 4EL. Furthermore, the 4DS·4EL translocation line had better agronomic traits than the wheat parents. After transferring Yr4EL into wheat cultivars SM482, CM42, and SM51, the derived progenies had diverse wheat genetic backgrounds, but they were all resistant to stripe rust and there were no yield penalties. These lines may be useful for breeding wheat varieties resistant to stripe rust.
Soil microbial community response to ectomycorrhizal dominance in diverse neotropical montane forests
Authors: Edwards Joseph D. , Krichels Alexander H. , Seyfried Georgia S. , Dalling James , Kent Angela D. , Yang Wendy H.
Published: October 2023

Ectomycorrhizal (EM) associations can promote the dominance of tree species in otherwise diverse tropical forests. These EM associations between trees and their fungal mutualists have important consequences for soil organic matter cycling, yet the influence of these EM-associated effects on surrounding microbial communities is less well known. We examined fungal and bacterial/ archaeal community composition in surface soil samples from mixed arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) and ectomycorrhizal (EM) stands as well as stands dominated by EM-associated Oreomunnea mexicana in four adjacent watersheds varying in soil fertility in the Fortuna Forest Reserve, Panama. We hypothesized that EM-dominated stands would support distinct microbial community assemblages relative to the mixed AM-EM stands due to differences in carbon and nitrogen cycling associated with the dominance of EM trees. We expected this microbiome selection in EM-dominated stands would lead to lower overall microbial community diversity and heterogeneity, with tighter correspondence between fungal and bacterial/ archaeal communities. We measured fungal and bacterial/ archaeal community composition via high-throughput Illumina sequencing of the ITS2 (fungi) and 16S rRNA (bacteria/archaeal) gene regions. We analyzed differences in alpha and beta diversity between stand mycorrhizal types, as well as the relative abundance of fungal functional groups and various microbial taxa. We found that fungal and bacterial/ archaeal community composition differed based on stand mycorrhizal type. There was lower bacterial/ archaeal diversity and lower relative abundance of fungal saprotrophs and pathogens in EM-dominant than AM-EM mixed stands. However, contrary to our prediction, there was lower homogeneity for fungal communities in EM-dominated stands compared to mixed EM-AM stands. Overall, we demonstrate that EM-dominated tropical forest stands have distinct soil microbiomes relative to surrounding diverse forests, suggesting that EM fungi may filter microbial functional groups in ways that could potentially influence plant health or ecosystem function.
Constructing a Biosynthetic Pathway of Ginsenoside F1 to Achieve Its Synthesis in Tobacco
Authors: Chen Qin , Lei Jun , Li Xiaolei , Zhang Jinyu , Liu Diqiu , Cui Xiuming , Ge Feng
Published: October 2023

Ginsenoside F1 has high medicinal values, which is a kind of rare triterpene saponin isolated from Panax plants. The extremely low content of ginsenoside F1 in herbs has limited its research and application in medical field. In this work, we constructed a pathway in tobacco for the biosynthesis of ginsenoside F1 by metabolic engineering. Four enzyme genes (PnDDS, CYP12H, CYP6H and UGT20) isolated from Panax notoginseng were introduced into tobacco. Thus, a biosynthetic pathway for ginsenoside F1 synthesis was artificially constructed in tobacco cells; moreover, the four exogenous genes could be expressed in the roots, stems and leaves of transgenic plants. Consequently, ginsenoside F1 and its precursors were successfully synthesized in the transgenic tobacco, compared with Panax plants, the content of ginsenoside F1 in transgenic tobacco was doubled. Based on these results, a new approach was established to produce rare ginsenoside F1; meanwhile, such strategy could also be employed in plant hosts for the heterologous synthesis of other important or rare natural products.
Development and identification of a novel wheat- Thinopyrum ponticum disomic substitution line DS5Ag(5D) with new genes conferring high resistance to powdery mildew and leaf rust
Authors: Zhang Jinlong , Jie Yize , Yan Linjie , Wang Mengmeng , Pang Yunfei , Ren Cuicui , Song Jie , Cheng Xiangdong , Li Xiaojun , Zhang Peipei , Yang Dongyan , Qi Zengjun , Ru Zhengang
Published: October 2023

Powdery mildew and leaf rust are wheat diseases against which Th. Ponticum contains genes that confer resistance. Here, an elite wheat-Th. ponticum disomic substitution line DS5Ag(5D), which confers high resistance to both diseases, was developed and characterized in the Bainong Aikang58 (AK58) background, using genomic in situ hybridization (GISH), oligo-nucleotide probe multiplex fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and molecular markers. There were 27 5Ag chromosome-specific molecular markers, of which 22 were co-dominant, confirming chromosome identification and SNP markers from the wheat 660 K SNP chip and providing molecular tools for tagging the alien chromosome. DS5Ag(5D) had higher resistance than its common wheat parents AK58 to powdery mildew throughout the growth period and leaf rust at the adult stage. Based on the resistance evaluation of DS5Ag(5D) and its parents, segregation analysis using five F5 populations with different sensitive wheat backgrounds showed that the resistance genes mapped to 5Ag confer stable effects on the two diseases in different backgrounds. Resistance spectrum analysis combined with diagnostic marker detection of known resistance genes of Th. ponticum revealed that 5Ag contained two novel genes, Pm5Ag and Lr5Ag, which conferred resistance to powdery mildew and leaf rust, respectively. New elite germplasm and molecular markers for breeding wheat with powdery mildew and leaf rust resistance are provided in this study.
Cell-mediated immune response evaluation of live in-vivo attenuated and killed vaccines against Babesia bigemina in calves
Authors: Ullah Naimat , Suleman Muhammad , Ashraf Kamran , Rashid Muhammad Imran , Rehman Abdul
Published: October 2023

The economic significance of babesiosis to the cattle population demands the adoption of alternate, effective and safe prophylactic measures. The current study aimed to develop an effective vaccine against babesiosis caused by B. bigemina. A total (n = 20) six months old, cattle calves were divided into four groups (A, B, C and D; five per group). Group A was inoculated with 2.5 x 106 B. bigemina-infected RBCs propagated and attenuated in-vivo in a rabbit model as a live attenuated vaccine, and Group B was subcutaneously administered with 2 x 106 B. bigemina merozoites as a killed vaccine having Montanide oil. Group C served as the B. bigemina-infected group, while Group D was an uninfected healthy control group. Group B was administered with a booster dose at the same dose on the 14th day post-primary immunization. Both groups, A and B, were challenged with exposure to five B. bigemina-infected Rhipicephalus microplus ticks on the 30th day post-vaccination. Blood samples were collected from all groups at day 0, 7th, and two-week intervals up to three months to evaluate cell-mediated immune response. Group A exhibited the highest cell-mediated immune response among all the groups, with higher protection at post-immunization and post-challenge stage. The significantly higher quantification of CD8 + and CD4 + T cells was associated with the protective potential of live attenuated B. bigemina vaccinated calves (Group A) than killed B. bigemina vaccinated calves (Group B) up to day 100 post-challenge. Based on these results, the live attenuated B. bigemina vaccine from local isolates can be used for prophylaxis against this disease to overcome the economic losses in cattle farming in the future.
Design of a novel cold expansion tool for deep small holes based on FEM simulations and experimental study
Authors: Wang Jiachen , Lei Xue-lin , Fei Zeng , Li Wei , He Cenyao , Cheng Lvyi , Zhang Xiancheng
Published: October 2023

Cold hole expansion is a crucial technology for enhancing the fatigue life of hole structures. This paper presents the design and optimization of a novel multi-convex hulls expansion tool for deep small holes in Inconel 718 superalloy using the finite element method (FEM) and experimental techniques. The results from the FEM model, which was used to investigate the compressive residual stress (CRS) distribution and contact force during the expansion process, indicate that the curved single convex hull(CSCH) structure is more suitable for deep small hole expansion (DSHE). However, accounting for the strength limitations of the actual expansion tool, a multi-convex hulls expansion tool structure was proposed. The FEM model was employed to compare the effects of various tool structures on the hole wall CRS distribution and the contact force during the expansion process. The obtained optimal parameters for enhancing deep small holes in Inconel 718 superalloy under high temperature and high load conditions are as follows: expansion section hull spacing l1 = 0.4 mm, taper ratio C = 0.008, number of convex hulls in the sizing section n = 10, and sizing section hull spacing l2 = 1 mm. Moreover, an optimized convex hull expansion amount allocation scheme was obtained through an experimental study. The results of the FEM simulations and experimental study demonstrate that the optimized multi-convex hulls expansion tool (with an expansion rate of 1.92%) can induce the formation of a high CRS layer and a refined surface without causing significant microcracks in the hole walls.
Evaluation of Thermal-Based Physiological Indicators for Determining Water Stress Thresholds in Drip- Irrigated 'Regina' Cherry Trees
Authors: Carrasco-Benavides Marcos , Espinoza-Meza Sergio , Umemura Kashike , Ortega-Farías Samuel , Baffico-Hernández Antonella , Neira-Román José , Ávila-Sánchez Carlos , Fuentes Sigfredo
Published: October 2023

This work aimed to assess the performance of different thermal-infrared (TIR)-based physiological indicators (PI) as an alternative to the stem water potential (Ψs) and stomatal conductance (gs) for monitor the water status of grafted drip-irrigated 'Regina' cherry trees. In addition, we evaluated the usefulness of piecewise linear regression for finding PI thresholds that are important for post-harvest regulated deficit irrigation (RDI) management. With this purpose, an irrigation experiment was carried out in the post-harvest period. Trees were submitted to three Ψs-based water stress treatments: T0 (fruit grower management treatment, or control) (Ψs > -1.0 MPa, without-to-low water stress); T1 (low to mild water stress treatment = -1.0 > Ψs > -1.5 MPa); and T2 (mild-to-severe water stress treatment = -1.5 > Ψs > -2.0 MPa).
The results indicated that the trees were more stressed in T2 than in T0. In the former, averages of Ψs and gs were -1.75 MPa and 372 mmol m-2 s-1, whereas they were -1.56 MPa and 427 mmol m-2 s-1 in T0. The piecewise model allowed determining the water stress thresholds of almost all studied PI. The breakpoints yielded by this analysis indicated that trees at Ψs lower than -1.5 MPa had a gs lower than 484 mmol m-2 s-1. These results also showed that TIR-based PI, whose equations incorporate a temperature normalization, are a better indicator of cherry tree water status than those without normalization. The derived TIR-based PI threshold values could be used as a reference for managing drip-irrigated 'Regina' cherry trees.
Moderating effect of grip strength in the association between cancer and depressive symptomatology
Authors: Veiga Diogo , Peralta Miguel , Carvalho Laura , Encantado Jorge , Gouveia Élvio , Teixeira Pedro J. , Marques Adilson
Published: October 2023

Purpose
Depression, as one of the leading causes of disease burden, frequently co-occurs with other diseases. Cancer seems to be strongly associated with depression more than any other disease. As an outcome of physical fitness, grip strength seems to have a protective effect on depression. This study aimed to analyse how grip strength moderates the relationship between cancer and depressive symptoms among older European adults.
Methods
Cross-sectional data from wave 8 (2019/2020), including 41701 participants (18003 men) of the population-based Survey of Health, Aging, and Retirement in Europe, were analysed. Grip strength, used as the moderator, was measured twice on each hand using a dynamometer. The EURO-D 12-item scale was used to measure depressive symptoms.
Results
Grip strength had a significant effect as a moderator in the association between cancer and depressive symptoms (male: B= -0.04, 95% CI = -0.04, -0.03; female: B = -0.06, 95% CI = -0.07, -0.06). Also, the grip strength moderation values are below 55.7kg for males and 39kg for females.
Conclusions
Muscular fitness, as measured by grip strength, moderated the relationship between cancer and depressive symptomatology. This supports the theory that recovery programs should include physical activity, namely muscle-strengthening exercises, to prevent depression.
Assessment of Safety and Efficacy in Ambulatory Bilateral same-session Ureterorenoscopy: Results of a Multicenter Study
Authors: Gul Tawiz , Abdelkareem Mohamed , Ebrahim Mohammed , Shehadeh Hamzah , Alnadhari Ibrahim , Salah Morshed
Published: October 2023

Aim:
This study aims to assess the safety and efficacy of Bilateral Same - Session Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (BSS-RIRS) for bilateral renal stones in ambulatory care settings.
Materials and Methods:
We retrospectively reviewed records from January 2019 to December 2022 for 83 patients who underwent Bilateral Same-Session Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (BS-RIRS) to manage bilateral renal stones in an ambulatory care setting. Stone clearance was assessed six to eight weeks post-operation via imaging (NCCT KUB, US, or KUB X-ray), defining stone-free status as the absence of fragments or fragments smaller than three millimeters.
Results:
The median stone size was 870 cubic millimeters on the right side (IQR: 452.5 – 1752.5) and 656 cubic millimeters on the left side (IQR: 496.5 – 1276.8). Of the total cohort, 56 patients (68.3%) were pre-stented. The average surgical duration was 105.70 minutes (± 35.97). The stone-free rate (SFR) was 74%, indicating successful clearance. Notably, 13 patients (15.9%) required additional procedures due to incomplete clearance.
Post-operatively, the majority (95.1%) were discharged the same day. However, four patients needed extended stays: one for IV antibiotics, another for bilateral ureteric catheter removal, and two due to surgeon preference. The mean hospital stay was 10.20 hours (± 9.05). Within 30 days post-op, 9 patients (11%) visited the emergency department due to abdominal pain. Four reported hematuria, and 1 had a fever. Importantly, only one patient required hospitalization for IV antibiotics.
Conclusion:
In carefully selected patients, simultaneous bilateral ureterorenoscopy in ambulatory settings is a secure intervention with commendable stone-free rates. This approach offers advantages such as shorter hospitalization, minimized intervention needs, and cost-effectiveness. To achieve these outcomes, selecting patients with a total stone burden of less than 3 cm is crucial.
Trend and disparities in authorship of healthcare-related publications on the ongoing russia- ukraine war
Authors: Alagbo Habib olatunji , Mitra Saloni , Madueke Karen , Azuwike Uchechi Blessing , Ferreira Samantha Dos Santos Rocha , Ademuyiwa Alimat Temitope , Adeleke Oluwaseun , Ejinkeonye Chigozirim , Onyebuchi David Izuchukwu , Atowoju Inioluwa , Odelola Faith Inioluwa , Kumari Jyoti , Sowunmi Marvellous , Al-Inaya Yana , Abdul-Rahman Toufik , Shlobin Nathan A.
Published: October 2023

Background
The Russia-Ukraine war has undeniably impacted global science and healthcare in Ukraine. Many Ukrainian researchers have had their projects disrupted by this war, either due to loss of life, displacement, or destruction of resources. Despite these challenges, these researchers have sought to make their voices heard. This scoping review highlights the trend of healthcare-related publications on the current Russian-Ukrainian war and characterizes the contribution of Ukrainian authors to these publications.
Method
A comprehensive literature search was performed using two databases (Scopus and Pubmed) for publications related to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. We included articles only related to healthcare. We then extracted and analyzed bibliometric data.
Result
One hundred and eighty-three articles were identified, including 12 (6.6%) original articles, 26 (14.2%) cross-sectional studies, 19 (10.4%) letters to the editor, 10 (5.5%) commentaries, 5 (2.7%) perspectives, 35 (19.1%) editorials, 2 (1.1%) randomized controlled trials, 11(6.0%) correspondences, 13 (7.1%) opinions, 8 (4.4%) reviews and 42 (23.0%) are identified as others. 180 (98.4%) studies were in English, and 3 (1.7%) were in German. 54 (29.5%) papers on the war had at least one author affiliated with a Ukrainian institution, and 29 (15.9%) studies had authors with Ukrainian affiliation as first authors.
Conclusion
There has been a significant number of publications on the Russia-Ukraine war. Despite the relatively high number of publications, most publications do not arise from the perspective of Ukrainian authors.
Implementation and Evaluation of a Community-based Mindful Walking Randomized Controlled Trial to Sustain Cognitive Health Among Older African Americans at Risk for Dementia
Authors: Yang Chih-Hsiang , Lee Jongwon , Wilcox Sara , Rudisill A. Caroline , Friedman Daniela B. , Hakun Jonathan G. , Neils-Strunjas Jean , Wei Jingkai , Miller Margaret , Byers Megan D.
Published: October 2023

Background With an increasing proportion of older adults and the associated risk of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD) around the globe, there is an urgent need to engage in ADRD risk reduction efforts. African American (AA) older adults in the U.S. are disproportionally impacted by ADRD compared to other races and ethnicities. Mindful walking integrates two potentially protective factors of ADRD by elevating mindfulness and physical activity (i.e., walking), resulting in a synergistic behavioral strategy that is feasible and safe for older adults. However, the efficacy of applying this intervention for cognitive health outcomes has not been evaluated using experimental designs. Methods This paper documents the goal and protocol of a community-based, mindful walking randomized controlled trial to examine the short- and longer-term efficacy on cognitive and other health-related outcomes in ADRD at-risk AA older adults. The study outcomes include various brain health determinants, including cognitive function, quality of life, psychological well-being, physical activity, mindfulness, sleep, and overall health status. In addition, the estimated costs of program implementation are also collected throughout the study period. This study will recruit 114 older adults (ages 60 + years) with elevated ADRD risk from the Midlands region of South Carolina. Older adults are randomly assigned to participate in 24 sessions of outdoor mindful walking over three months or a delayed mindful walking group (n = 57 in each group). Participants in both groups follow identical measurement protocols at baseline, after 12 weeks, after 18 weeks, and after 24 weeks from baseline. The outcome measures are administered in the lab and in everyday settings. Costs per participant are calculated using micro-costing methods. The eliciting participant costs for mindful walking engagement with expected results are reported using the payer and the societal perspectives. Discussion This study will generate evidence regarding the efficacy of mindful walking on sustaining cognitive health in vulnerable older adults. It can inform future large-scale effectiveness trials to support our study findings. If successful, this mindful walking program can be scaled up as a low-cost and viable lifestyle strategy to promote healthy cognitive aging in diverse older adult populations, including those at greatest risk. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov number NCT06085196 (retrospectively registered on 10/08/2023)
Poor quality, pro-inflammatory diet in children with Crohn’s disease and healthy controls: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Breton Jessica , Quinn Ryan , Conrad Máire , Kachelries Kelly , Schwab Erica , Baldassano Robert , Albenberg Lindsey , Compher Charlene
Published: October 2023

Background:
Diet plays a critical role in development and progression of Crohn’s disease (CD). Dietary indices are important tools to evaluate diet quality and dietary inflammatory potential, and we investigated the associations of it with pediatric CD.
Method:
A cross-sectional study including 144 children with CD (122 with clinically active and 22 with quiescent disease) and 57 healthy controls 6-18 years of age was conducted. Dietary intake was estimated using three 24-h dietary recalls. Diet quality was assessed using the Healthy Eating Index (HEI)-2015, alternate Mediterranean diet (aMed) score and modified Children-Dietary Inflammatory Index (mC-DII).
Results:
Children with active CD had lower total HEI-2015 and aMed scores than healthy controls. A similar pro-inflammatory mC-DII score was found across the three groups. A higher mC-DII score in patients with CD was associated with higher intake of refined sugars, saturated fats and proteins, and lower intake of whole grains and dairy. Fiber intake was significantly lower in children with active CD (median fiber DRI: 37.0 [22.6-48.3] vs 41.2 [34.1-49.1] vs 45.8 [35.7-62.0], P <0.001).
Conclusions:
Using three dietary indices to evaluate diet quality, both children with CD and healthy children in North America consume a poor-quality, pro-inflammatory diet low in fiber, but the quality and fiber content are significantly lower in children with active CD. Future randomized controlled trials are required to evaluate the effect of the change in diet and secondarily dietary quality scores on the risk and progression of pediatric CD.
Structural and magnetic properties of Lu doped SrFe12O19 ferrites
Authors: Wang Huang-Yi , Han Jia-Jun
Published: October 2023

In this work, M-type strontium ferrite LuxSrFe12−xO19 (x = 0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6) was prepared using a precursor chemical co-precipitation method. The structures, morphologies, and elemental compositions of the samples were analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The magnetic properties of the prepared samples were determined using a vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). XRD peaks revealed its crystalline nature, exhibiting a hexagonal single-phase magnetic spinel crystal structure. SEM micrographs displayed regular hexagonal grain structures, with the grain size gradually decreasing with increasing Lu3+ ions content. VSM analysis confirmed that LuxSrFe12−xO19 is essentially a hard magnetic material with significant coercivity, and the saturation magnetization and remanent magnetization exhibited a trend of initially decreasing and then increasing with the increasing Lu3+ ions content. Furthermore, Lu3+ ions substituted SrFe12O19 ferrites find wide applications in magnetic recording and memory devices.
Researchers’ views on and practices of knowledge translation: an international survey of transfusion medicine researchers
Authors: Thijsen Amanda , Masser Barbara , Davison Tanya Ellen , Williamson Anna
Published: October 2023

Background: Health research is often driven by the desire to improve the care and health of the community; however, the translation of research evidence into policy and practice is not guaranteed. Knowledge translation (KT) activities, such as dissemination and end-user engagement by researchers, are important to achieving this goal. This study examined researchers’ views on and practices of KT in the field of transfusion medicine.
Methods: An anonymous, cross-sectional survey was distributed to transfusion medicine researchers in May 2022 by emailing corresponding authors of papers in four major blood journals, emailing grant recipients, posting on social media, and through international blood operator networks. Comparative analyses were conducted for career stage, work setting, research type, and KT training.
Results: The final sample included 117 researchers from 33 countries. Most participants reported that research translation was important (86%) and felt it was their responsibility (69%). Fewer than half felt they had the skills to translate their research (45%) or knew which strategies to employ (45%). When examining how research findings are shared, most reported using diffusion activities (86%), including publishing in peer-reviewed journals (74%), or presenting at academic conferences (72%). Fewer used dissemination methods (60%), such as developing educational materials (29%) or writing plain language summaries (30%). Greater use of tailored dissemination strategies was seen among researchers with KT training, while traditional diffusion strategies were used more by those working in an academic setting. Most participants had engaged end-users in their research (72%), primarily to consult on a research component (47%) or to involve them in the research process (45%). End-user engagement was greater among researchers with established careers, working in both an academic and applied setting, and with KT training.
Conclusions: While participating researchers acknowledged the importance of KT, they typically focused on traditional diffusion strategies. This is despite well-established knowledge of the limited impact of these strategies in achieving KT. Those with KT training were more likely to use tailored dissemination strategies and engage end-users in their research. This demonstrates the value of sharing knowledge from the KT field with health researchers to facilitate KT.
Coverage and use of improved sanitation facilities at household level after implementation of National Sanitation Campaign in Siha District, Kilimanjaro Region, Tanzania
Authors: Bernad Fina , Sakwari Gloria , Luoga Pankras , Nyaboke Jemima
Published: October 2023

Introduction Improved sanitation and hygiene practices coverage and use are still very low worldwide. The situation is worse in developing countries and sub-Saharan Africa, as one person in five has sanitation services. Before implementing the National Sanitation Campaign (NSC), Tanzania, particularly Siha District, had an estimated 21% and 15% coverage for improved toilets and functional handwashing facilities, respectively. In comparison, 5.7% of households practiced open defecation. Therefore, this study intended to assess factors and changes brought about by the NSC intervention and the sustainability of the improved sanitation facilities two years after the intervention ended. Materials and Methods The study was conducted in Siha District, Kilimanjaro Region, using a cross-sectional pre- and post-study design with a quantitative approach. Cluster sampling was used to select households from the four villages in the district. The post-intervention data were collected using interviewing and observation methods to assess the coverage and use of improved sanitation facilities and factors for its sustainability. All objectives were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 21 (SPSS). Results The study revealed increased coverage of households with improved latrines and handwashing facilities. The HH with improved toilets increased from 21–36.3%, and handwashing facilities increased from 15–15.9% after the intervention. There was a decrease in open defecation practices from 5.7–3.9%. Income (AOR = 2.9, 95% CI (1.79–4.96) and education (OR = 3.33, 95% CI ((1.53–7.725), were the significant factors for the sustainability of improved sanitation facilities. Conclusion The sanitation campaign brought about the desired changes in improving household sanitation and hygiene practices. The Health and Environmental Village committees should provide education on the benefits of construction and use of the improved toilets and handwashing facilities to reduce OD (Open Defecation) practices and disease spread among household members in the setting.
Effect of Annealing Temperature on the Microstructure and Properties of 2024 Aluminum Alloy with Large Deformation
Authors: Jian Haigen , Wu jiangyao , Chen Miao , Xiao Kemou , Pai Junjun
Published: October 2023

The findings demonstrate that as the annealing temperature is raised, the proportion of low angle grain boundaries (2-15°, LAGB) in the 2024 aluminum alloy falls, and the proportion of high angle grain boundaries (≤15°, HAGB) increases. The strength and hardness of the alloy drop as the degree of recrystallization rises, but the plasticity and toughness rise. The texture becomes less intense, and there is an evolution path of Brass + Copper → R-Cu + m-Brass + Cu35° + α55° + {101}<232> → P0° + Goss → V + F. Σ3 coincidence site lattice (CSL) grain boundary's volume fraction grows, increasing the grain boundary's resistance to corrosion.
Perineural invasion in incisional biopsy is an indication for en block resection in oral squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue and floor of the mouth
Authors: Kostakis George , Stathopoulos Panagiotis , Papadopoulos Panagiotis
Published: October 2023

Purpose; Oral squamous cell carcinoma is a worldwide disease associated with severe morbidity, recurrence and limited survival rates. The histologic finding of perineural invasion is a poor prognostic factor with an incidence of up to 40% in primary and recurrent cases. The aim of this study is to detect factors that influence prognosis in patients operated for oral cancer with perineural invasion in their histopathology report and to propose safer options of treatment with respect to recurrence and survival rates. Patients and methods; Overall, 75 cases of patients operated for oral squamous cell carcinoma were included in the study. Of these cases, 14 with perineural invasion were found. We created two groups: one group of patients treated with en-block resection and a second group of patients treated with a discontinuous resection between the primary site and the neck. Results; Oral cancer patients with known perineural invasion treated with en-block resection had a much better overall and disease specific survival than patients treated with a discontinuous manner (p < .001). The difference of recurrence rate between these two groups of patients was found to be very significant in our study (p < .0005) Conclusion It is therefore our suggestion that in oral squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue and floor of the mouth with perineural invasion detected in the incisional biopsy, an extended en-block resection to include the affected nerves should be performed.
The influence of interatrial conduction disorders on atrial mechanical function - atrial strain and pulmonary veins reversal flow
Authors: Zawadzki Jacek , Gajek Jacek , Zawadzki Grzegorz , Sławuta Agnieszka , Kudliński Bartosz
Published: October 2023

The physiologic activation of left atrium (LA) happens via Bachmann bundle which is major for the proper functioning of the heart. In 1979 Bayes de Luna described the interatrial blocks (IABs), which impair the mechanism of AV synchrony. Our aim was to evaluate the LA mechanics using LA strain in normal and impaired interatrial conduction, regarding the retrograde flow in the pulmonary veins (PV). The study included 51 patients (25F,26M; 69,5+/-13,1 years), with SARS-CoV-2(+), and related symptoms. 6 patients with persistent AF were excluded from the study. All participants underwent clinical evaluation, ECG (200mm/s, x256), echocardiography (EF, mitral regurgitation, LA volume, global and regional strain, PV reversal flow). We found a statistic dependency between LA global strain and P-wave morphology, MR, HF, AFP. There was no clear correlation between the PV reversal flow and LA strain. The mean P wave duration was correlated with its morphology. The correlations between the P-wave morphology and hypertension, overweight, AFP were also observed. Concluding, LA mechanics are negatively influenced by IABs. LA global strain is independently correlated with P wave duration, EF and MR. The examination with regional LA strain is a potentially good technique for assessing LA mechanics and is complementary to precise electrocardiography.
Dynamical investigation of NinAgm(n+m=147,309,561) nanoalloys with core-shell orderings
Authors: Zehir Damla , Taran Songül , Arslan Haydar
Published: October 2023

The structures and dynamical properties of core-shell bimetallic Ni-Ag nanoalloys varying with different sizes and compositions have been studied by using Monte Carlo and Molecular Dynamics simulations. We have considered the compositions in which the size of the core increases while the total number of atoms are fixed. In this sense, two (Ni13Ag134, Ni55Ag92), three (Ni13Ag296, Ni55Ag254, Ni147Ag162) and four (Ni13Ag548, Ni55Ag506, Ni147Ag414 and Ni309Ag252) compositions were considered for 147, 309 and 561 atoms, respectively. It is obtained that highly symmetric Mackay icosahedral structures with centered symmetric cores appear for these specific sizes and compositions. Also, smaller Ni atoms tend to occupy the core and Ag atoms prefer to segregate to surface of the nanoalloy due to its lower surface and cohesive energy. Then, obtained lowest energy structures by Basin Hopping MC simulations were used as initial configurations for melting simulations. It can be said that transitions between different chemical ordering patterns with increasing temperature are possible in this systems while they are still in the solid state. Although there are clear differences in the melting process of the compositions with increasing size of the core, for all cases, surface melting occurs indicating that the Ag shell melts before inner Ni core.
Safety and efficacy of Levetiracetam and Carbamazepine monotherapy in the management of pediatric focal epilepsy: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Montazerlotfelahi Hadi , Ketabforoush Arsh Haj Mohamad Ebrahim , Tavakol Marzieh , Ashrafi Mahmoudreza , Dehghani Mahdieh , Mostafavi Keihan , Mardi Shayan , Tajfirooz Sanaz
Published: October 2023

Background: Due to the limited number of studies in children with focal epilepsy and the importance of choosing the most suitable drug to control seizures in children, the administration of the most effective medication with the most negligible side effects is vital.
Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and side effects of Carbamazepine vs. Levetiracetam monotherapy in children with focal seizures.
Design: A monocentric, randomized, controlled, double-blind, parallel-group clinical trial
Setting: This study was approved by the Iranian Registry of clinical trials (registration number: IRCT20170216032603N2) on June 19, 2020, and conducted at the neurology department of Imam Ali Hospital, Karaj, Iran, from February 2020 to March 2021
Participant: This study assessed 120 patients with recently diagnosed focal seizures aged 2 to 14.
Methods: Patients were randomly divided into two groups, who received Carbamazepine (CBZ) 15 to 20 mg/kg and Levetiracetam (LEV) 20 to 40 mg/kg daily, respectively. Both medicines were prescribed in divided doses of tablets twice daily. Patients were evaluated for improvement and complications at weeks four, 12, and 24.
Results: Totally out of 120 patients included in the study; six patients were excluded due to various complications of CBZ. The mean number of seizures at the end of the fourth, twelfth, and twenty-fourth weeks were 1.09 ± 0.75, 0.62 ± 0.27, and 0.39 ± 0.12 in the Carbamazepine group and 1.11 ± 0.63, 0.52 ± 0.21, and 0.37 ± 0.11 in the LEV group, respectively (P>0.05). Similarly, the number of seizure-free patients was 34, 44, and 48 in the CBZ group compared to 41, 50, and 54 in the LEV group, respectively (P>0.05). On the other hand, the frequency of somnolence, dermatologic complications, and agitation was considerably higher in the CBZ group (P <0.05).
Significance: Although both medicines were equally effective in seizure control, CBZ was associated with considerably more side effects and less patient compliance. Physicians should be aware of this difference to prevent unwanted consequences.
Establishing Cloud Security by Setting up Honeypot on Azure Services
Authors: Arif Haroon , Hoda Farazul , Kumar Aashesh
Published: October 2023

Using honeypots enhances cloud security, specifically focusing on implementing a honeypot on Azure Services. The paper delineates the advantages of honeypots, such as prompt detection of attacks, recognition of attack methods, safeguarding critical data, awareness of the threat landscape, and training security teams. Furthermore, the article elucidates the steps for establishing a honeypot on Azure Services, encompassing the selection of a virtual machine, installation, and configuration of the honeypot software, deployment of monitoring and logging functionalities, establishment of security groups, execution of a penetration test, and consistent monitoring of the honeypot. The rationale for setting up a honeypot on Azure Services is to deliver an all-inclusive approach to cloud security that supplements customary security measures and facilitates enterprises to anticipate evolving security hazards.
Hydroponic nutrient solution temperature impacts Tulane virus persistence over time
Authors: Dhulappanavar Gayatri R. , Gibson Kristen E.
Published: October 2023

Controlled environment agriculture (CEA), or indoor agriculture, encompasses non-traditional farming methods that occur inside climate-controlled structures (e.g., greenhouses, warehouses, high tunnels) allowing for year-round production of fresh produce such as leaf lettuce. However, recent outbreaks and recalls associated with hydroponically grown lettuce contaminated with human pathogens have raised concerns. Few studies exist on the food safety risks during hydroponic cultivation of leaf lettuce; thus, it is important to identify contributing risk factors and potential mitigation strategies to prevent foodborne transmission via hydroponically-grown produce. In this study, the persistence of Tulane virus (TV), a human norovirus surrogate, in hydroponic nutrient solution at 15°C, 25°C, 30°C, and 37°C was determined over a duration of 21 days to mimic the time from seedling to mature lettuce. Tulane virus persisted throughout the 21-day study period at 15, 25, and 30°C compared to 37°C where TV persistence was limited five days. The mean log reduction for TV was 0.86, 1.80, 2.87, and ³3.77 log PFU/mL at 15°C, 25°C, 30°C, and 37°C, respectively, at the end of the 21-day period. The decimal reduction values (D-values) of TV indicate longer persistence in hydroponic nutrient solution at 15°C compared to 25°C, 30°C, and 37°C with D-values of 28.5, 15.0, 8.2, and 2.3 days, respectively. This study aids in identification of possible food safety risks associated with hydroponic systems and aid in developing risk management strategies to reduce foodborne outbreaks, fresh produce recalls, and economic losses.
Exploring the adoption of the MDA framework to develop a game-based Test of Logical Thinking
Authors: Dasanayake D.W.M. Nirmani Chathurya , Sandanayake T. C. , Premasiri S. M.U.
Published: October 2023

Purpose
Game-based recruitment is an emerging trend adopted by organizations globally, given its proven results in boosting candidate perceptions of the company and providing an improved recruitment experience. This paper explores the use of the MDA framework, consisting of mechanics, dynamics, and aesthetics, in the process of game development to test analytical thinking.
Methods
The Test of Logical Thinking (TOLT) by Tobin and Capie, which has previously been found effective for analytical skill thinking in computer engineering professionals, has been used as the foundation for game-based test development. The questions in the original TOLT test have been adapted to suit a continuous scenario of a scavenger hunt, which has been designed using mechanics, dynamics, and aesthetics. Testing has been carried out using a focus group of eight fresh graduate software engineering recruits. Data has been collected using a mixed methods approach with a quantitative emphasis.
Results
Candidate perceptions of the recruitment process and the employer have been recorded to be positively influenced by the introduction of game-based testing in the recruitment process. Candidate ratings on mechanics, dynamics, and aesthetics have been above average overall.
Conclusion
Game-based recruitment can be seen as a proven game-changer for software engineering recruiters focused on hiring entry-level graduates. It not only provides them with a competitive advantage but also contributes to test takers being less nervous and helps them focus. The correct adoption of mechanics, dynamics, and aesthetics can elevate the recruitment process and candidates’ perception of the employer.
Study on biological impacts of Xuefu Zhuyu Decoction in the treatment of coronary heart disease through Investigating target genes and molecular docking
Authors: Jiang Jiangang , Chen Xinmin , Li Chengwei , Du Xiaoma , Zhou Huadong
Published: October 2023

Background
To explore the mechanism of Xuefu Zhuyu Decoction in the treatment of coronary heart disease (CHD) from multiple angles by using the method of network pharmacology and molecular docking.
Methods
The chemical components of Xuefu Zhuyu Decoction were searched through the tcmsp database, and the related targets were predicted through Swiss target prediction database. Through gene cards database, genecards database, TTD database, drugbank database and OMIM database, the disease-related targets were retrieved with the keyword "coronary heart disease", and the intersection between the disease targets and the therapeutic targets of Xuefu Zhuyu decoction was obtained. Then, a series of networks such as "traditional Chinese medicine composition intersection target network" and "PPI network" are constructed from the relevant data, and then the data are enriched and analyzed, molecular docking and so on.
Results
174 active components in Xuefu Zhuyu Decoction can alleviate and treat CHD through 233 potential targets, involving cancer pathway, MAPK signal pathway, PI3K-Akt signal pathway, proteoglycan, lipid and atherosclerosis in cancer, and Rap1 signal pathway. β- Sitosterol, stigmasterol, catechol, quercetin and other components bind well with TNF, TP53, mapk1, AKT1 and other target proteins.
Conclusion
Xuefu Zhuyu Decoction has the potential to treat CHD through multiple components and targets. This finding provides a basis for further research into the mechanism of action of Xuefu Zhuyu Decoction in the treatment of CHD.