bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design of an industrial Photovoltaic-Driven Reverse Osmosis (PV-RO) Plant in Bahrain
Authors: Fardan Ali , Albuflasa Hanan , Sultan Amin , Davies Philip
Published: February 2022

Renewable energy-driven desalination is a viable solution for such an energy-intensive industry. In the gulf cooperation council (GCC) region, where the largest desalination plants worldwide are accommodated, fossil fuels exhibit a real dilemma. Nonetheless, the region features an abundant solar energy resource. This work contributes to the collective efforts for shifting the conventional fossil fuel-dependent desalination associated with a high carbon footprint toward an eco-friendly model by integrating photovoltaic (PV) technology.Within this frame, an industrial brackish water reverse osmosis (BWRO) plant went under energy analysis to set the appropriate PV-driven RO design. Finally, a grid-connected design was simulated by Helioscope and PVsyst software to integrate half-cut cells PV modules (460 Wp) on the rooftops of three buildings.The results showed that 525 kW AC power (DC/AC ratio≈ 1.2) could be achieved with a specific yield of 1258 kWh/kWp, and an overall performance ratio of 79.1%, representing around 786 MWh annually.
A soil stratigraphic unit provides evidence for Late Quaternary climate change in the Chobe Enclave, northern Botswana
Authors: Eze Peter N. , Molwalefhe Loago N. , Kebonye Ndiye M.
Published: February 2022

A quarry in the Chobe Enclave, northern Botswana, exposes a prominent pedostratigraphic unit of approximately 8 metres consisting of two pedostratigraphic levels (PL), older PL1 and younger PL2. In a region where proxies for palaeoenvironmental reconstruction are terribly lacking, this study assessed the potentials of paleosols (fossil soils) to answer fundamental questions about weathering, pedogenic intensity and environmental change using macromorphology, geochemistry and clay mineralogy. SiO2 is the dominant major oxide (40.6- 98.9 wt. %) followed by CaO (0.02-29.6 wt. %), Fe2O3 (0.48- 2.64 wt. %), MgO (0.14 – 1.81 wt. %) and Al2O3 (0.29 – 0.93 wt. %). The clay-sized minerals present in the paleosols are sepiolite, quartz, calcite and kaolinite. The carbonates had strong positive correlation with Sr (R2 = 0.935), while Fe2O3 had weak positive correlation with TiO2 (R2 = 0.0187). PL1 developed on materials of fluvial origin and is genetically immature with A/C horizons. In comparison with modern soil, PL1 would qualify as Entisols (Fluvent or Fluvaquent in Soil Taxonomy). PL2 is comparable to modern Calsisol and formed from protracted period of post burial dissolution, downward translocation and recrystallization of the palustrine carbonates to form pedogenic carbonates. Calcification, incipient ferralization and leaching of soluble salts are the dominant pedogenic processes in the pedostratigraphic section. Weathering and pedogenesis were generally incipient in the unit. Late Quaternary hydrological dynamics in the Chobe Enclave was the major driver for the formation of the soil stratigraphic unit. This study demonstrates the applicability of paleosols for reconstructing and discerning palaeoenvironmental and climate dynamics and gives the possibility of connecting pedosedimentary processes in the area to regional palaeoenvironmental archives.
Computed Tomography Evaluation of Risk Factors for an Undesirable Buccal Split During Sagittal Split Ramus Osteotomy
Authors: Fujii Yasuyuki , Hatori Ayano , Sugiyama-Tamura Tomoko , Hamada Hayato , Sugisaki Risa , Kanno Yuki , Sato Marika , Kono Michihide , Hasegawa On , Kawase-Koga Yoko , Chikazu Daichi
Published: February 2022

Background: Sagittal split ramus osteotomy (SSRO) sometimes induces an irregular split pattern referred to as a bad split. We investigated the risk factors for bad splits in the buccal plate of the ramus during SSRO. Methods: Ramus morphology and bad splits in the buccal plate of the ramus were assessed using preoperative and postoperative computed tomography images.Results: Of the 53 rami analyzed, 45 had a successful split, and 8 had a bad split in the buccal plate. Horizontal images at the height of the mandibular foramen showed that there were significant differences in the ratio of the forward thickness to the backward thickness of the ramus between patients with a successful split and those with a bad split. In addition, the distal region of the cortical bone tended to be thicker and the curve of the lateral region of the cortical bone tended to be smaller in the bad split group than in the control group. Conclusion: These results indicated that a ramus shape in which the width becomes thinner towards the back frequently induces bad splits in the buccal plate of the ramus during SSRO, and more attention should be paid to patients who have rami of these shapes in future surgeries.
A Protocol For Chenopodium Quinoa Pollen Germination
Authors: Castillo S. Elizabeth , Tovar Jose C. , Shamin Anastasia , Gutirerrez Jorge , Pearson Paige , Gehan Malia A.
Published: February 2022

Background: Quinoa is an increasingly popular seed crop frequently studied for its tolerance to various abiotic stresses as well as its susceptibility to heat. Estimations of quinoa pollen viability through staining methods have resulted in conflicting results. A more effective alternative to stains is to estimate pollen viability through in vitro germination. Here we report a method for in vitro quinoa pollen germination that could be used to understand the impact of various stresses on quinoa fertility and therefore seed yield or to identify male-sterile lines for breeding. Results: A semi-automated method to count germinating pollen was developed in PlantCV, which can be widely used by the community. Pollen collected on day 4 after first anthesis at ZT5 was optimum for pollen germination with an average germination of 68% for accession QQ74 (PI 614886). The optimal length of pollen incubation was found to be 48 hours, because it maximizes germination rates while minimizing contamination. The pollen germination medium’s pH, boric acid, and sucrose concentrations were optimized. The highest germination rates were obtained with 16% sucrose, 0.03% boric acid, 0.007% calcium nitrate, and pH 5.5. This medium was tested on quinoa accessions QQ74, and cherry vanilla with 68%, and 64% germination efficiencies, respectively. Conclusions: We provide an in vitro pollen germination method for quinoa with average germination rates of 64 and 68% on the two accessions tested. This method is a valuable tool to estimate pollen viability in quinoa, and to test how stress affects quinoa fertility. We also developed an image analysis tool to semi-automate the process of counting germinating pollen. Quinoa produces many new flowers during most of its panicle development period, leading to significant variation in pollen maturity and viability between different flowers of the same panicle. Therefore, collecting pollen at 4 days after first anthesis is very important to collect more uniformly developed pollen and to obtain high germination rates.
Prevalence and Predictors of Mental Illness Among Inmates in Northwestern Ethiopia: a New Look Into the Roles of Rehabilitation Service Use.
Authors: Yesuf Yassin Mohammed , Birhan Amlaku Alemu , Birara Addisu Gedlu , Adimas Bewket Dereje , Bezabeh Abebe Bahiru , Agmase Nega Gedfaw
Published: February 2022

BackgroundData over the magnitude of mental illnesses and associated factors among inmates in Ethiopia in general and in Amhara region in particular are scares. The available studies either focused on specific type of mental illness or include inmates from a single correctional center and leave aside the role of rehabilitation service use in inmates’ mental illness. Therefore, the present study was conducted to look into the prevalence of mental illnesses and to examine the associated demographic, imprisonment related and rehabilitation service use related factors that predict the mental illnesses of inmates in Northwestern Ethiopia. MethodsThe study employed cross-sectional, descriptive and explanatory research design where data was collected from 422 inmates from three randomly selected prisons. Inmates' mental illness was assessed using the Self Report Questionnaire (SQR-20). Frequency, percentage, bivariate and multiple logistic regressions were used to analyze the collected data. ResultsIn the study it was revealed that 74.6% of the inmates in Northwestern Ethiopia have mental illnesses. Feeling unhappy, difficulty to play important role in life, headaches and bad sleep were experienced by majority of the respondents. Male inmates (AOR = 2.39, 95% CI = 1.07 - 5.37) and inmates who participate in the educational training services (AOR = 2.20, 95% CI = 1.36 - 3.55) were found to have higher chances of having mental illnesses. On the other hand, inmates who participate in life skill training programs (AOR = 0.45, 95% CI = 0.28 - 0.74) and inmates who participate in recreational and cultural activities (AOR = 0.26, 95% CI = 0.14 - 0.46) were found to have lower odds of developing mental illnesses. ConclusionHigher prevalence of mental illnesses among inmates was found in Northwestern Ethiopia and inmates' participation in rehabilitation services were important predictors of their mental health. Thus prison administrators and policy makers need to initiate large scale studies thereby interventions that could reform the rehabilitation services provisions, including mental health services.
The Plastic Hinge Length Prediction of RC Members by Using ANN
Authors: Bayrak Baris , KAPLAN Gökhan , Akarsu Oğuzhan , AYDIN Abdulkadir Cüneyt
Published: February 2022

For many years, plastic hinges have been a very interesting and complex topic for researchers and engineers due to plastic deformations. Nonetheless, both standards and empirical relations are insufficient to determine the length of plastic hinges attached to concrete flexural elements. This study aims to analyze studies and formulas used for the calculation of plastic hinges in reinforced concrete (RC) columns and RC sheer walls. In addition, the study also evaluated the effect of plastic hinge behavior on other structural members. The study also evaluated plastic hinge length formulas and plastic hinge formulas of flexure elements either created with numerical modelling or presented with numerical models supported by empirical data. In addition, the data for columns and/or shear walls included in the literature have been evaluated in order to develop a unique formula that anticipates the length of plastic hinges of columns and/or shear walls. In this study, the use of Levenberg-Marquardt Algorithm based on artificial neural network (ANN) models in estimating the plastic hinge length of columns and shear walls was investigated. It was observed that the R2 values of the model outputs are greater than 0.98. It has been determined that the developed ANN model is a practical and useful method for estimating the plastic hinge length of columns and shear walls, both.
Can the decline in happiness in Europe be attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic and its interaction with the budget deficit?
Authors: Armand Gilbert Noula , Avom Désiré , Nguekam Orfé Chouafi , Deffo Salomon Leroy Ghamsi , Kenfack Martial Aimé , AHMED Ali Salim NGNEMADOM
Published: February 2022

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has caused a great slump in the world. There has been an alarming increase in mortality rate, number of infections, and deterioration of macroeconomic indicators such as GDP, which have worsened the happiness and well-being of the population, despite the multi-faceted restraint and supports measures implemented by several governments to curb the spread of the virus. Using sample of 31 European countries as a dataset, this paper analyzes the effect of the worsening COVID-19 budget deficit on people's happiness in the year 2020. The main idea is to determine, independently of a country's characteristics, the duration of the pandemic or the containment regulations; whether the effect of the pandemic on happiness is increased by the worsening of the budget deficit. The Generalized Least Squares (GLS) estimation shows that death tolls and infected cases of COVID-19 are key determinants that significantly worsen individuals' happiness. In addition, its interaction with fiscal deficit further decreases people's life satisfaction, since the budgetary situation of these countries was already unsustainable long before the pandemic. Hence, there is urgency for States to provide for a community solidarity fund for the resources necessary for crisis management in their budget line.
Is the pitching moment acting on a Javelin always nose-down?
Authors: Seo Kazuya , Okuizumi Hiroyuki , Konishi Yasufumi , Kobayashi Takuto , Hasagawa Hiroaki , Obayashi Shigeru
Published: February 2022

The rules governing the dimensions of the Javelin were substantially changed in 1986. It was considered that this new design guaranteed there was zero pitching moment at 0° angle of attack and that the pitching moment decreased (became negative) with increasing angle of attack. The objective of this study is to investigate if the pitching moment remains always negative (nose-down rotation). To measure accurate aerodynamic forces acting on a Javelin, the world’s largest 1m magnetic suspension and balance system was used. The magnetic suspension and balance system was able to measure aerodynamic forces without support interference in the wind tunnel. In addition, computational fluid dynamics were carried out to estimate the pitching moment coefficients. It was found that the pitching moment coefficient of a commercially available Javelin becomes positive (nose-up rotation) at lower angles of attack, less than 12°. The pitching moment becomes positive if the upstream side of the center of gravity receives more inflow than the downstream side. This situation can be attained by, for example, increasing the thickness of the upstream side when compared with that of the downstream side.
Japanese Encephalitis Virus-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy in the Rat Model
Authors: Zhang Na , Yuan Yanping , Yang Liping , Wang Guowei , Yang Huan , Wang Zhao , Li Xiaocong , Yu Liming , Zhang Denger , Wang Huanyu , Wang Zhenhai
Published: February 2022

Background: Guillain–Barré Syndrome Associated with Japanese encephalitis virus(JEV) infection,the mechanism of JEV which caused peripheral nerve injury remains unknown.Recently, it has been suggested that an altered sphingolipid metabolism may contribute to the pathogenesis of peripheral neuropathy. In light of the emerging evidence of peripheral nerve injury when JEV infected and the evidence in the pathogenesis of neuroimmunity, we aimed to make a rat model which peripheral nerve injury after JEV infection and investigate relevant damage mechanism. Methods: We investigated the infected rat with peripheral neuropathy induced by JEV. The rat exhibited behavioral and pathological signs of peripheral nervous injury. The motor function of rats were determined by clinical scoring and tissue examination.Electrophysiological measurements and transmission electron microscopy was used on sciatic nerves to assess peripheral peripheral nervous injury.ELISA were used to evaluate IFNγ, IL-17,ceramide and acid sphingomyelinase level. Immunofluorescence was performed on sciatic nerves to assess the expression and localization of ceramide and matrix metalloproteinase-9.Results: Japanese encephalitis virus induced peripheral neuropathy in rat,evidenced by the aggravated clinical scores, electrophysiological,transmission electron microscopy,circulating pro-inflammatory cytokines, and histological anomalies, suggesting that demyelination and axonal damage of sciatic nerves. JEV destroyed the tight junction structure of rat’s blood nerve barrier and increased ceramide and matrix metalloproteinase-9.Conclusion:These data suggest that JEV is a potential reason caused peripheral nerve injury in rat model and this model can be used for the investigation of the roles of various cytokines and acid sphingomyelinase,ceramide system in infection-induced peripheral neuropathy. Further investigation of this model could give a better understanding and lead to more effective evidences for JEV infection-associated peripheral neuropathy.
Mental health of working parents during the COVID-19 pandemic: Can resilience buffer the impact of psychosocial work stress on depressive symptoms?
Authors: Garthus-Niegel Susan , Brym Stephanie , Mack Judith T. , Weise Victoria , Kopp Marie , Steudte-Schmiedgen Susann
Published: February 2022

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has confronted working parents with an accumulation of stressors regarding changes in work, family, and social life, putting their mental health at risk. Stressors include altered working conditions such as working from home or changes in working hours as well as the difficulty to reconcile work and childcare due to the closure of childcare facilities. The present study examined the relationship of psychosocial work stress (i.e., work-privacy conflict and effort-reward imbalance at work) and depressive symptoms in working parents and whether this association was moderated by individual resilience.Methods: Data of the present study (n = 452) were collected in Germany between May and June 2020 as part of the DREAMCORONA study. A subsample of working mothers (n = 191) and fathers (n = 261) completed the subscale for work-privacy conflict (WPC) of the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire, the Effort-Reward Imbalance (ERI) Questionnaire, the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC), and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). Multiple linear regression analyses including moderation were performed, controlling for gender, working hours per week, and a lifetime history of depression as potential confounders.Results: Both WPC (β = 0.336, p < .001) and ERI (β = 0.254, p < .001) were significantly associated with depressive symptoms. Resilience moderated the relationship between ERI and depressive symptoms (β = -0.101, p = .018), indicating that higher resilience weakened the relationship. However, this effect was not found regarding the relationship between WPC and depressive symptoms (β = 0.055, p = .167). Conclusions: The results highlight the need for measures to reduce psychosocial work stressors such as WPC and ERI during the COVID-19 pandemic on the one hand and to promote resilience on the other hand. The findings partially support the potential protective role of resilience buffering the association of psychosocial stress and mental health in working parents. Longitudinal studies are needed to confirm this effect.
Improving the identification of large vessel occlusion stroke during the emergency call: a protocol of the LESTOR study
Authors: Rau Diana , Zimmermann Nicole , Schuchardt Florian , Nau Anne , Meier Simone , Herrmann Matthias L. , Bergmann Ulrike , Brich Jochen , Farin-Glattacker Erik
Published: February 2022

BackgroundLarge vessel occlusions (LVO) cause up to 30% of acute ischemic strokes. Mechanical thrombectomy is the first line treatment performed by neurointerventionalists. In Germany, neurointerventionalists are mostly situated in comprehensive stroke centres (CSC). Thus, long transport distances to CSCs may be necessary. The aim of this study is to design, implement and evaluate an intervention that involves lay first responders (LFR) in the early identification of LVO, followed by a direct assignment to a CSC.Methods This controlled study with a stepped-wedge design and clustering of six emergency control centres in southwest Germany will stepwise implement LVO screening performed during the emergency call. Individuals with suspected LVO in both the control and intervention group (n=250) will undergo the usual treatment. In addition, emergency medical service dispatchers will screen patients in the intervention group for cortical stroke symptoms and refer those patients with suspected LVO to a CSC, either by ambulance or air rescue. The primary endpoint is the clinical outcome measured by the modified Rankin Scale 90 days post-stroke. In addition, we will perform a qualitative process evaluation.Discussion We will assess the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of a systematic screening for symptoms of LVO stroke implemented at the emergency control centre. The process evaluation will provide additional insight into how the participating emergency professionals perceive the intervention and the psychological impact on LFR.ConclusionsWe hypothesize that early, pre-hospital identification of LVO patients and an optimized rescue chain will enable earlier treatment - especially in rural areas. We expect improved clinical outcomes for LVO patients and a better understanding for future studies with larger sample sizes.Trial registrationDRKS, DRKS-ID: DRKS00022152. Registered 19th October 2020, https://www.drks.de/drks_web/navigate.do?navigationId=trial.HTML&TRIAL_ID=DRKS00022152; WHO UTN: U1111-1253-5758.
M1A Regulator-Mediated Methylation Modification And Gene Signatures And Their Prognostic Value In Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Fu Jiaqi , Han Xingjun , Gao Wei , Cui Jinwei , Yu Manya , Cui Xing
Published: February 2022

Introduction: N1‑methyladenosine (m1A), a methylation modification on RNA, is gaining attention for its role across diverse biological processes. However, the potential roles of m1A regulator-mediated methylation modification in multiple myeloma (MM) remain unclear.Methods: We investigated the mRNA expression of m1A regulators in normal plasma (NP, n = 9) and MM (n = 174) bone marrow plasma cells and comprehensively evaluated the m1A modification patterns of 559 MM samples based on the expression of 10 m1A-related regulatory genes. A univariate Cox regression model, Kaplan–Meier survival curve, unsupervised clustering and gene enrichment analysis were used to explore the associations between m1A‑related regulatory genes and MM patient survival and prognosis. Additionally, the m1Ascore was constructed to quantify m1A modification patterns of individual tumors using the principal component analysis algorithm.Results: Compared with NP, the expression of five genes (TRMT61A, TRMT61B, YTHDF1, YTHDF2, YTHDF3) was upregulated in MM patients. The Kaplan–Meier survival curve showed the high expression of the above five genes was associated with shorter overall survival. Three distinct m1A modification patterns were determined, of which cluster B showed the worst outcome; the expression of ALKBH3, YTHDF2, TRMT10C, TRMT6, and TRMT61B was high and the expression of ALKBH1 and YTHDC1 was low in cluster B. In addition, the relationships between the m1Ascore and survival, m1Aclusters, m1A gene clusters, and PD-L1 expression all indicated that high m1Ascore was associated with clinical benefits and therapeutic advantages.Conclusion: These findings indicate that m1A‑related regulatory genes play a crucial role in regulating MM progression and that the m1Ascore could be used for diagnostic and prognostic purposes.
Cascade of care, awareness and treatment of Chronic Hepatitis B in Malaysia- findings from a community-based screening campaign
Authors: Lim Zhuo-zhi , Teo Jau shya , Tan Ah Choon , Lim Teck Onn
Published: February 2022

Introduction In 2016 the World Health Organization (WHO) had adopted a global strategy to eliminate Hepatitis B (HBV) by 2030 through five core interventions. One of which is the “cascade of care”, the continuum of services that persons with chronic HBV should receive as they progress from screening to diagnosis to treatment to chronic care. We determined the prevalence of the awareness and treatment of chronic HBV in Malaysia based on a large sample data from a screening campaign.Methods A total of 10,436 subjects participated in the HBV screening campaign organized by the Hepatitis Free Pahang Malaysia (HFPM) in 2018 and 2019. All screen-positive subjects were recalled to undergo laboratory-based HBsAg and HBV DNA tests. Patients with confirmed chronic HBV were referred to local health services, while continued being monitored by HFPM. ResultsWe estimated 13.1% of Malaysian adults aged 20 or older with chronic HBV were aware of their HBV status, and of those only 0.7% had received prior anti-viral treatment, but among those with baseline HBV DNA level>20,000 IU/ml, 15.6% were subsequently treated. Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate was the only medicine used on all treated patients. ConclusionFew Malaysian adults with HBV were aware of their infection and even less received anti-viral therapy. Concerted public health efforts are urgently needed to improve HBV screening and care cascade in order to meet WHO’s targets for HBV elimination.
Pesticide Residues in The Formoso River: A Threat To Biodiversity In The Cerrado of The Tocantins State, Brazil
Authors: Guarda Patrícia Martins , Gualberto Larissa da S. , Mendes Danylo B. , Guarda Emerson Adriano , Silva José Expedito C. da
Published: February 2022

The biodiversity of the Cerrado has been threatened by the increase in agricultural production in the state of Tocantins and by the increased use of pesticides. This region of Formoso do Araguaia, it is home to around 1,825 indigenous people and is one of the largest indigenous territories in the state of Tocantins This work investigates the levels of pesticide residues in different environmental compartments (soil, sediment and water samples) of the Formoso River in the state of Tocantins, Brazil. The presence of pesticides of the imidazolinones and strobirulins classes by UHPLC-MS/MS were analyzed from April 2018 to February 2019, which helped in an evaluation of the impacts of pesticides on the biodiversity of the place of study. After analysis, five active principles (azoxystrobin, fenamidone, imazethapyr, tricyclazole, and trifloxystrobin) were detected in the water matrix, two active principles (azoxystrobin and tricyclazole) in the soil matrix, but no active principle was detected in the sediment matrix. In the region of the Parque do Araguaia Indigenous Lands, people who use this water for cultivation, hygiene and food, which is worrying, are exposed to these substances.
Embryonic and Gonadal Development of the Chinese Three-keeled Pond Turtle, Mauremys Reevesii
Authors: Akashi Hiroshi , Kubota Manami , Yamamoto Hibiki , Miyaoku Kaori , Yamagishi Genki , Miyagawa Shinichi
Published: February 2022

Temperature-dependent sex determination (TSD) is a mechanism in which environmental temperature rather than innate zygotic genotype determines the fate of sexual differentiation during embryonic development. The Chinese three-keeled pond turtle, Mauremys reevesii, has TSD and can thus be compared to other TSD species to elucidate the molecular basis underlying this mechanism. Nevertheless, neither embryogenesis nor gonadogenesis has been described in this species. Here, we investigated the chronology of normal embryonic development and gonadal structures in M. reevesii under both female- and male-producing incubation temperatures (FPT or MPT, respectively). External morphology remained indistinct between the two temperature regimes throughout the studied embryonic stages. However, the sexual differentiation of gonadal structures began earlier in the embryos at FPT than at MPT. Moreover, the offset of the thermosensitive period, at which the gonadal structures often remain sexually undifferentiated, did not occur at the same stage at FPT and MPT. In ovo experiments are particularly important for understanding the functional roles of genes involved in TSD, and the present study provides the basis required for designing such developmental studies in M. reevesii.
HIV-1 drug resistance genotyping success rates and correlates of Dried-blood spots and plasma specimen genotyping failure in a resource-limited setting
Authors: Omooja Jonah , Bbosa Nicholas , Lule Dan Bugembe , Nannyonjo Maria , Lunkuse Sandra , Nassolo Faridah , Nabirye Stella , Suubi Hamidah Namagembe , Kaleebu Pontiano , Ssemwanga Deogratius
Published: February 2022

Background: HIV-1 drug resistance genotyping is critical to the monitoring of antiretroviral treatment. Data on HIV-1 genotyping success rates of different laboratory specimen types from multiple sources is still scarce. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we determined the laboratory genotyping success rates (GSR) and assessed the correlates of genotyping failure of 6837 unpaired dried blood spot (DBS) and plasma specimens from multiple studies/sources. Specimens from multiple studies in a resource-constrained setting were analysed in our laboratory between 2016 and 2019. Results: We noted an overall GSR of 65.7% and specific overall GSR for DBS and plasma of 49.8% and 85.9% respectively. The correlates of genotyping failure were viral load (VL) <10,000 copies/mL (aOR 0.3 95% CI: 0.24-0.38; p<0.0001), lack of viral load testing prior to genotyping (OR 0.85 95% CI: 0.77-0.94; p=0.002), use of DBS specimens (aOR 0.10 95% CI: 0.08-0.14; p<0.0001) and specimens from routine clinical diagnosis (aOR 1.4 95% CI: 1.10-1.75; p=0.005). Conclusions: We report rapidly decreasing HIV-1 genotyping success rates between 2016 and 2019 with increased use of DBS specimens for genotyping and note decreasing median viral loads over the years. We recommend improvement in DBS handling, viral load testing prior to genotyping and development of more sensitive assays to genotype specimens with low or undetectable viral load, especially in this era where virological suppression rates are rising due to increased antiretroviral therapy roll-out.
Formulation and Characterisation of Polyester-Lignite Composite Coated Controlled-Release Fertilisers
Authors: Gunaratnam Abhiram , Bishop Peter , Jeyakumar Paramsothy , Grafton Miles , Davies Clive E. , McCurdy Murray
Published: February 2022

Two polyester-lignite composite coated urea controlled-release fertilisers (CRFs; Poly3 and Poly5) were developed and their physicochemical properties were studied. Both these CRFs significantly (p < 0.05) extended the urea release compared to uncoated urea; Poly3 and Poly5 by 117 and 172 hours, respectively. The urea release characteristics of Poly5 were further enhanced by linseed oil application (Poly5-linseed). The SEM images demonstrated the coatings were in contact with the urea and encase urea particles completely with the average coating thickness of 167.2 ± 15 µm. The new interactions between polyester and lignite in the composite coating were confirmed by the FTIR analysis. Polyester-calcium carbonate (Polyester-CaCO3) coated CRFs (Calc3 & Calc5) were developed using CaCO3 as a filler in place of lignite and the urea dissolution rate was compared with Poly3 and Poly5. The urea release times for the polyester- CaCO3 formulations, 48h and 72h, were significantly (P < 0.05) lower than the polyester-lignite formulation, showing that lignite imparted greater control over release time than CaCO3. Findings from this work showed that polyester-lignite composites can be used as a coating material for CRFs.
Antibacterial activity of green gold and silver nanoparticles using ginger root extract
Authors: Yadi Morteza , Akbarzadeh Abolfazl , Dianat-Moghadam Hassan , Azizi Mehdi , Milani Morteza
Published: February 2022

BackgroundRecent studies demonstrated that the speed of synthesis, biocompatibility, and antimicrobial activity of gold (Au) and silver (Ag) metals is enhanced when biosynthesized in nano-sized particles. In the present study, Au NPs and Ag NPs were synthesized via a biological process using aqueous Ginger root extract and characterized by various spectroscopic methods. Methods & ResultsThe NPs were found to be in hexagonal and spherical shapes. The average particle size for Au and Ag NPs was found to be 20 nm and 15 nm, respectively. The dynamic light scattering (DLS) method has shown that the zeta potential values of synthesized NPs were found to be 5.7 mv and 7.11mv, respectively. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis of Ginger root extract revealed 25 compounds. The synthesized NPs showed significant activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli in vitro with IC50 and IC90 values for Au and Ag NPs, respectively, noted to be 7.5 and 7.3 µg/ml and 15 and 15.2 µg/ml for both bacterial strains. The protein leakage level was high and morphological changes occurred in bacteria treated with biosynthesized NPs. ConclusionThese results suggest that the biosynthesized metallic NPs show potential for application as antibacterial agents with enhanced activities.
Modified minimally invasive anteromedial approach with cannulated screw fixation for medial malleolus fracture: A novel technique
Authors: Qin Yingda , Zhang Tao
Published: February 2022

Background: In the treatment of medial malleolus fracture with traditional anteromeal ankle incision, the skin incision is larger and the incision-related complications are more. This study aims to explore the efficacy of this minimally invasive approach in the treatment of medial malleolus fracture.Methods: A retrospective analysis the patients with ankle fracture who were treated with modified minimally invasive anteromedial approach (MMITAA group) in our hospital between January 2019 and April 2020, and patients with ankle fracture treated with traditional anteromedial approach (TAA group) between January 2018 and December 2019. After regular follow-up, perioperative period, follow-up and imaging data of the two groups were compared to evaluate whether the therapeutic effect of the modified approach was better than that of the traditional approach.Results: The preoperative VAS score was 6.89 ± 1.74 in the MMIAA group and 7.17 ± 1.06 in the TAA group (P > 0.05). The VAS score in the MMIAA group was 4.97 ± 1.10 at 3 days after the surgery, which was significantly lower than the 6.20 ± 0.92 in the TAA group. The VAS score at 1 month after the surgery was still lower in the MMIAA group than in the TAA group.According to the results of postoperative ankle CT, the maximum postoperative step-off of the articular surface was 0.14 ± 0.12 mm in the MMIAA group and 0.18 ± 0.18 mm in the TAA group, but the difference was not statistically significant. The postoperative AOFAS score was 95.95 ± 6.81 points in the MMIAA group and 93.99 ± 8.74 points in the TAA group, which was slightly higher in the MMIAA group than in the TAA group, with no significant difference. Of the four subjective scores included in the AOFAS, the pain score of 38.15 ± 3.90 in the MMIAA group was significantly lower than the 36.51 ± 5.03 in the TAA group.All patients achieved fractrue healing.Conclusions: The modified minimally invasive anteromedial approach greatly shortened the lenth of incision, thereby reducing the incidence of incision-related complications, by smaller trauma achieve the same clinical effect.
Astaxanthin and risk of cardiovascular diseases: a meta-analysis of epidemiological evidence
Authors: Gao XinZheng , Mo WenYue , Ye HuaQiang , Long Zhen , Kou RuiRui , Qiao PeiYao , Meng RuiLong , He Rui , Du Le
Published: February 2022

Background: The purpose of this study was to analyze and evaluate the effect of astaxanthin on clinical indicators related to cardiovascular disease. Methods: Fives databases include PUBMED, CNKI, WEIPU, WAN FANG and ClinicalTrials were searched up to January 31, 2022, and the random-effects model was used to calculate the summary risk. A total of 14 epidemiological studies were included in this meta-analysis.Results: The overall study showed no significant dose-response association of astaxanthin (AST) with diastolic blood pressure, DBP (weighted mean difference, WND:-0.186, 95%confidence interval, CI:-0.374 to 0.002, P=0.052) and body mass index, BMI ( WND:0.095, 95%CI: -0.164 to 0.354, P=0.473).However, the results revealed that astaxanthin can significantly reduce the concentrations of total cholesterol (WND:-0.310, 95% CI:-0.541 to -0.168, P=0.000), the concentrations of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, LDL-C (WND: -0.207, 95% CI: -0.396 to -0.019, P=0.031), the concentrations of triglyceride (WND:-0.603, 95% CI:-1.028 to -0.179, P=0.005), the concentrations of glucose (WND: -0.353, 95% CI:-0.596 to -0.110, P=0.004) and systolic blood pressure, SBP(WND:-0.258, 95% CI:-0.495 to -0.021, P=0.033). Moreover, astaxanthin could increase the concentrations of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, HDL-C (WND: -0.294, 95% CI:-0.515 to -0.072, P=0.009).Conclusions: This meta-analysis indicates that astaxanthin has a protection role on the cardiovascular system. Further studies need to be conducted to verify the findings.
Cortisol response to psychological stress in patients with schizophrenia in the Chinese population
Authors: Zhu Xiaoyu , Zhu Yu , Huang Junchao , Zhou Yanfang , Tong Jinghui , Zhang Ping , Luo Xingguang , Chen Song , Tian Baopeng , Tan Shuping , Wang Zhiren , Han Xiaole , Tian Li , Li Chiang-Shan , Hong Elliot , Tan Yunlong
Published: February 2022

Accumulating evidence suggests that hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis dysfunction might play an important role in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. This study aimed to explore the cortisol response to psychological stress in patients with schizophrenia. In this study, patients with schizophrenia (n = 104) and healthy volunteers (n = 59) were asked to complete psychological stress challenge tasks, which included the Paced Auditory Serial Addition Task and Mirror-Tracing Persistence Task, and then, saliva was collected to measure cortisol levels. Emotions and psychopathology were assessed by the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS) and Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS). The results showed (1) that the cortisol stress response and negative emotions in patients with schizophrenia differed significantly from those in healthy controls; (2) there were significant interactions between sampling time and diagnosis for saliva cortisol levels; (3) there were significant interactions between scoring time and diagnosis for the negative affect score of the PANAS; and (4) the changes in salivary cortisol levels and negative affect scores before and after the psychological stress challenge tasks were not correlated with clinical symptoms in patients with schizophrenia. These findings indicated that an abnormal cortisol stress response might be a stable biological characteristic of schizophrenia.
Determination of the Shortest Path Using the Ant Colony Optimization (ACO) Algorithm Approach
Authors: Sihotang Hengki Tamando
Published: February 2022

Distribution is one of the essential activities in business because it determines the price of products or goods in the market. So, choosing the shortest path is considered one of the most important things in business, especially distributors. PT Everbright, one of the business actors engaged in the manufacture of batteries and as the main distributor, hopes that the distribution of goods to have the shortest route so that costs can be minimized. The aim of the research was to determine the shortest path in distributing goods in the Medan area to the location of consumers. The research used Ant Colony Optimization (ACO). Determination of the shortest path is based on distance calculations in kilometers, protocol roads, gangs, normal road conditions, and differences between small and major roads. Based on the research results, it is found that the J1 line has the greatest value. So, the path chosen by the ants to pass is J1 which is 11 km away from the departure location (PT Everbright) to the destination (Pasar Glugur Kota). It passes through PT Everbright --> Jln. Gatot Subroto --> Jln. Kapt. Muslim --> Jln. Tgk. Amir Hamzah --> Jln. KH. Syeikh Abdul Wahab Rokan --> Pasar Glugur Kota.
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE KURDISH PROBLEM IN TURKEY AND THE ISSUE OF CHINESE IN MALAYSIA WITHIN THE CONTEXT OF NATION-STATE AND ETHNIC DIFFERENCES
Authors: Alptekin Musa Yavuz
Published: February 2022

In this study, the ethnic problems which are one of the most significant and perhaps the primary structural difficulties and problems of the nation-state and possible solutions will be suggested. Even if it starts with the general information, the focus of this study would be the subject matter which is known as the Southeastern problem in Turkey, yet it has started to be mentioned as the Kurdish problem in the recent years. This study has the purpose of analyzing the mentioned problem in comparison with the Chinese Problem in Malaysia and determining the advantageous and disadvantageous circumstances in each subsection. Based on those determinations, recommendations will be included regarding which dynamics need to be prioritized in realizing a holistic solution process. The comparison will be conducted in thirteen subsections.
BUSINESS EXCELLENCEINITIATIVES: A STUDY OF DUBAI QUALITY AWARD-WINNING ORGANIZATIONSIN UAE
Authors: Doulatabadi Mehran , Ushimaru Hajime , Yusof Azizah
Published: February 2022

This paperpresentsthe central results of a survey analysis carried out in the UAE with respect to business excellence initiatives. The main purpose of this research is to investigate the use of business excellenceinitiativesin Dubai quality award-wining organizations. Thestudyused a self-administered questionnairetoconfirm the adaptability of business excellence initiativesby Dubai quality award-wining organizations. Several statistical tests including descriptive statistics, internal consistency reliability and content validitywere employed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences(SPSS). The result of the study shows that various business excellence initiatives already implemented byDubai quality award-wining organizations for their efforts towards business excellence. The award-wining organizations believe that business excellenceinitiatives areimportant in helping them reach their organizational goals.
THE FACTORS AFFECTING EFFICIENCY OF CRUDE PALM OIL IN INDONESIA PALM OIL INDUSTRY
Authors: Eni Yuli , Agustina Christy , Merlinna Metta , Bella Risya , Arguelles Roberto M. , Satorre-Estella Sheryl
Published: February 2022

This research aim is to determine the factors affecting efficiency of crude palm oil (CPO) in Indonesia by using simpleregression (T-partial) and multiple regression (F-simultaneous) analysisthrough EViewssoftware. The results of this study indicate that partially is the independent variables that affecting Crude Palm Oil (Y) with a T-Statistic value greater than T table (1.65) are the total concession (7.214855), issued capital(2.087724), total investment (6.538604) andtotal employees (5.167861) with an alpha value of 0.05. While simultaneously,the independent variables that affecting the dependent variable are total concession, authorized capital, issued capital, paid up capital, total investment, total employees with F-statistic value of 16,65554, F table value of 1.94 with alpha value of 0.05 . Therefore, the palm oil industry in Indonesia can improveefficiency and production through maximum use of total concession inputs, issuedcapital, total investment and total employees.
Investigation of cotton textile industry wastewater treatment with electrocoagulation process: performance, mineralization, and kinetic study
Authors: Asfaha Yemane G. , Zewge Feleke , Yohannes Teketel , Kebede Shimelis
Published: February 2022

In this study, the performance of the electrocoagulation (EC) process was evaluated for its capability to remove color, total organic carbon (TOC), chemical oxygen demand (COD) using aluminium electrodes. Response surface methodology based on Box-Behnken design was used to optimize different operating conditions of the processes. The interaction effects of four independent variables such as dye concentration, applied current density, electrolysis time, and pH on the percentage of COD, TOC, and color removal were investigated by the EC process. ANOVA analysis was made to examine the significance of input parameters and their interaction effect on responses. At the optimum operating conditions, 89% of color, 47% of TOC, and 76% of COD removal rate were achieved using the EC process. Different research works have been reported on the treatment of textile wastewater by the EC process. However, these researches vary regarding working conditions such as dye type, concentration, current density, pH, electrolysis time, and electrode type. Also, most literature focuses mainly on the performance of the technology. However, it is also important to investigate the economic aspect, removal mechanism, and mineralization study. Thus, economic analyses, mineralization, kinetic, sludge characterization studies of the technology were performed.
Well-design and synthesis of a water- and heat-resistant UiO-67@CNTs composite for Congo red efficient capture
Authors: Jin Yuning , Wu Danping , Ma Na , Dai Wei
Published: February 2022

MOFs (metal-organic frameworks) significantly suffer from water- and heat instable issues, restricting their practical application, such as the capture of hazardous anionic dyes (e.g. Congo red, CR) from water. In the present contribution, a series of novel composites (UiO-67@CNTs) composed of microporous UiO-67 (Zr6O4(OH)4(CO2)12) and mesoporous CNTs (carbon nanotubes) have been innovatively synthesized by an in-situ hydrothermal reaction strategy. This UiO-67@CNT impressively retains structural integrity whether contacted with strong acid, distilled water, and strong alkali conditions even for 20 days. Due to the existence of CNT, its heat stability can reach up to 480 °C, which is superior to that of UiO-67. Open Zr(IV) sites, mesoporous, and high surface area in the structure of UiO-67@CNTs play associative effects for CR capture ability. CR uptakes over (5.0)UiO-67@CNTs can reach 1024 mg/g, exceeding some other previous adsorbents in literature. Importantly, UiO-67@CNTs could retain a remarkable CR capture ability even after the fifth cycle. This work expands views for water-heat resistant MOF-based composite with excellent ability of CR capture.
Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3β Involvement in Neuroinflammation and Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Gianferrara Teresa , Cescon Eleonora , Grieco Ilenia , Spalluto Giampiero , Federico Stephanie
Published: February 2022

Background:

GSK-3β activity has been strictly related to neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. Alzheimer’s disease is the most studied neurodegenerative disease, but GSK-3β seems to be involved in almost all neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, frontotemporal dementia, Huntington’s disease, and the autoimmune disease multiple sclerosis.

Objective:

This review aims to help researchers both working on this research topic or not to have a comprehensive overview of GSK-3β in the context of neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration.

Method:

Literature has been searched using PubMed and SciFinder databases by inserting specific keywords. A total of more than 500 articles have been discussed.

Results:

First of all, the structure and regulation of the kinase were briefly discussed, and then, specific GSK-3β implications in neuroinflammation and neurodegenerative diseases were illustrated with the help of figures, to conclude with a comprehensive overview on the most important GSK-3β and multitarget inhibitors. The structure and IC50 values at the target kinase have been reported for all the discussed compounds.

Conclusion:

GSK-3β is involved in several signaling pathways in neurons, glial cells and immune cells. The fine regulation and interconnection of all these pathways are at the base of the rationale use of GSK-3β inhibitors in neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. Some compounds are now under clinical trials. Despite this, the compounds’ pharmacodynamic and ADME/Tox profiles were often not fully characterized which is deleterious in such a complex system.
Basidiomycetes as a Source for New Bioactive Natural Products
Authors: Lorenzen K. , Anke T.
Published: February 2022

Among the sources of bioactive metabolites, less intensively investigated organisms like the higher fungi seem to hold an excellent promise for new structures with interesting biological activities. In the last decades interesting compounds of different biogenetic origin with antibacterial, antifungal, phytotoxic, nematocidal, cytostatic, antiviral, and other pharmacological activities were isolated from basidiomycetes. In the following review we will concentrate on metabolites isolated from submerged cultures.