bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Longitudinal analysis of new‐onset non‐AIDS‐defining diseases among people living with HIV: A real‐world observational study
Authors: Duan Yujiao , Zhao Hongxin , Tang Weiming , Chen Meiling , Liu Xuan , Yang Di , Gao Guiju , Xiao Jiang , Han Ning , Liang Hongyuan , Wu Liang , Ni Liang , Wang Fang , Song Yangzi , Xie Xiaohui , Zhang Fujie
Published: March 2022

Objectives

We aimed to analyze the incidence rates of new‐onset diabetes, hypertriglyceridemia, hypercholesterolemia, liver injury, and renal injury during antiretroviral therapy (ART) among people living with HIV (PLWH) and determine the associated risk factors.

Methods

This study included PLWH enrolled from Beijing Ditan Hospital from November 11, 2004, to December 29, 2018. The incidence rates of new‐onset diabetes, hypertriglyceridemia, hypercholesterolemia, liver injury, and renal injury were calculated and stratified based on ART regimen, CD4 count, and HIV‐RNA. Risk factors were determined using Cox regression analysis.

Results

Overall, 6747 participants were included. Moreover, 4.5%, 43.3%, 25.4%, 11.2%, and 6.2% of patients developed new‐onset diabetes, hypertriglyceridemia, hypercholesterolemia, liver injury, and renal injury, respectively, with incidence rates of 1.7, 26.9, 10.2, 3.9, and 5.5 per 100 person‐years, respectively. Longitudinally, the incidence rates and percentages of these outcomes were highest in the first year of ART. The percentage of dyslipidemia was significantly higher in protease inhibitor (PI)‐based regimen than in non‐nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI)‐based regimen. However, the percentage of liver injury was significantly higher in NNRTI‐based regimen than in PI‐based regimen. In multivariate Cox regression analysis, low CD4 count (<200 cells/µL, adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 1.34, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.15–1.57) and high HIV‐RNA (>105 copies/mL, aHR = 1.26, 95% CI 1.08–1.48) were risk factors for hypertriglyceridemia.

Conclusions

Clinical outcomes, including new‐onset diabetes, dyslipidemia, and liver and renal injuries, are common in PLWH. Regular glucose, lipid, liver, and renal function monitoring is required during ART, especially in high‐risk patients.
Distribution of nontuberculous mycobacteria in patients with and without HIV/AIDS in Chongqing
Authors: Nie Jingmin , Deng Xizi , Zeng Qingling , Du Xiang , Chen Yaokai , Hu Fengyu
Published: March 2022

Introduction

In this study, the distribution of nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) strains in patients with and without HIV/AIDS in Chongqing, China was evaluated.

Methods

A retrospective study was performed in January–December 2020 at Chongqing Public Health Medical Center. NTM strains were assessed by a multi locus phylogenetic analysis. The distribution of NTM strains in HIV/AIDS and non‐HIV/AIDS groups was compared. CD4+ cell counts, imaging changes, and characteristics of mycobacterial species were determined.

Results

In total, 324 patients with NTM infection (50 patients with HIV/AIDS and 274 patients without HIV/AIDS) were included. The most common etiological agent was M. abscessus (29%), followed by M. paraintracellulare (12%) and M. colombiense (11%). Predominant NTM species were M. avium (26%), M. colombiense (24%), and M. kansasii (18%) in patients with HIV/AIDS and were M. abscessus (32%), M. paraintracellulare (13%), M. fortuitum (10%), and M. intracellulare (10%) in patients without HIV/AIDS. For a CD4+ cell count of <200/μl, the predominant species were M. aviumin the HIV/AIDS group and M. abscessus in the non‐HIV/AIDS group. With respect to radiologic characteristics, different NTM strains were associated with distinct imaging manifestations; for example, M. marseillense, M. kansasii, and M. parasenchytosis were more likely to induce cavities. Imaging cavities, bronchiectasis, and acinar‐like changes were more common in the non‐HIV/AIDS groups.

Conclusions

The infection rates of HIV and NTM in Chongqing are high, while M. abscessus, M. paraintracellulare, and M. colombiense are the main pathogens causing NTM diseases in Chongqing, and NTM strains differed significantly between patients with and without HIV/AIDS. Monitoring these indicators can help develop prevention strategies.
Effectiveness of intentional replantation in managing teeth with apical periodontitis: A systematic review
Authors: Plotino Gianluca , Abella Sans Francesc , Bastos Juliana Vilela , Nagendrababu Venkateshbabu
Published: March 2022

Background

Intentional replantation (IR) to treat disease of endodontic origin remains controversial. While IR has been advocated by some clinicians as another valid treatment option, others consider it as a treatment procedure of last resort.

Objective

To systematically review and critically evaluate the effectiveness of IR compared with nonsurgical root canal treatment/retreatment or apical surgery in terms of clinical and patient‐related outcomes in managing permanent teeth with apical periodontitis (AP).

Methods

A literature search of five databases (PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science and Cochrane Central register of Controlled Trials), and the grey literature (Networked Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations, Open Access Theses and Dissertations, DART‐Europe E‐theses Portal, British Library E‐Theses Online Service), from inception to November 2021, was conducted. Randomised clinical trials, comparative clinical trials (CCTs), nonrandomised, retrospective, and prospective comparative cohort and case–control two arm studies which evaluated clinical and/or patient‐related outcomes of permanent teeth with AP treated with IR compared with nonsurgical root canal treatment/retreatment or apical surgery were identified. The quality of the studies was appraised using the Cochrane risk of bias tool for randomized trials (RoB 2.0), the Robins‐I for nonrandomized controlled clinical trials and the Newcastle‐Ottawa scale for observational studies. Two independent reviewers were involved in the literature selection, performed the data extraction and the appraisal of the studies identified; disagreements were resolved in conjunction with a third reviewer.

Results

No comparative study was identified from the literature search. Four longitudinal studies (one prospective and three retrospective) were identified during the screening of titles and abstracts but were excluded after reading the full text, because only IR was evaluated (single arm studies).

Discussion

The available evidence on IR is mainly based on observational studies, which reported high overall mid‐ to long‐term survival, and low complication rates. The results suggest that IR may represent an alternative treatment procedure to solve problems of endodontic origin. However, in the absence of high‐quality evidence from CCTs, clinical decision‐making should be on a case‐by‐case basis and in accordance with the clinician's experience and the patient's preference.

Conclusion

Clinical studies showed that IR may be a treatment modality to manage problems of endodontic origin. However, clinical trials comparing the effectiveness of IR with nonsurgical root canal treatment/retreatment or apical surgery are still required given the paucity of evidence.
Mental health nurses perceptions of missed nursing care in acute inpatient units: A multi‐method approach
Authors: Joseph Bindu , Plummer Virginia , Cross Wendy
Published: March 2022

Nurses have key roles in caring for hospitalized patients. Missed nursing care can lead to adverse outcomes, from minor discomfort to patient death. Mental health nurses have a significant role in advancing knowledge and practice due to missed, delayed, or unfinished nursing care. They are identifying, escalating, and managing warning signs of mental and physical health deterioration where the risk to patients is high in terms of compromised care quality and neglect and the evidence is scant. This study aimed to examine mental health nurses’ perceptions of missed nursing care in acute mental health inpatient units in an Australian regional health service. A cross‐sectional survey was undertaken using a modified Kalisch Phelan MISSCARE questionnaire and a qualitative content analysis was undertaken for narrative responses. Of 70 participants, the majority were aged 30–44 years, with >5 years of experience. The results indicated that care planning, safety audits, communication, and assessment of oral intake were perceived as care most frequently missed. Factors contributing to missed care need urgent exploration to ensure timely reduction of patient risk and enhancements to safe quality care.
Bacterial mandelic acid degradation pathway and its application in biotechnology
Authors: Wang Qingzhuo , Geng Shanshan , Wang Lingru , Wen Zhiqiang , Sun Xiaoman , Huang He
Published: March 2022

Mandelic acid and its derivatives are an important class of chemical synthetic blocks, which is widely used in drug synthesis and stereochemistry research. In nature, mandelic acid degradation pathway has been widely identified and analysed as a representative pathway of aromatic compounds degradation. The most studied mandelic acid degradation pathway from Pseudomonas putida consists of mandelate racemase, S-mandelate dehydrogenase, benzoylformate decarboxylase, benzaldehyde dehydrogenase and downstream benzoic acid degradation pathways. Because of the ability to catalyse various reactions of aromatic substrates, pathway enzymes have been widely used in biocatalysis, kinetic resolution, chiral compounds synthesis or construction of new metabolic pathways. In this paper, the physiological significance and the existing range of the mandelic acid degradation pathway were introduced first. Then each of the enzymes in the pathway is reviewed one by one, including the researches on enzymatic properties and the applications in biotechnology as well as efforts that have been made to modify the substrate specificity or improving catalytic activity by enzyme engineering to adapt different applications. The composition of the important metabolic pathway of bacterial mandelic acid degradation pathway as well as the researches and applications of pathway enzymes is summarized in this review for the first time.
The jasmonate‐induced bHLH gene SlJIG functions in terpene biosynthesis and resistance to insects and fungus
Authors: Cao Yunyun , Liu Lun , Ma Kangsheng , Wang Wenjing , Lv Hongmei , Gao Ming , Wang Xinman , Zhang Xichun , Ren Shuxin , Zhang Na , Guo Yang‐Dong
Published: March 2022

Jasmonic acid (JA) is a key regulator of plant defense responses. Although the transcription factor MYC2, the master regulator of the JA signaling pathway, orchestrates a hierarchical transcriptional cascade that regulates the JA responses, only a few transcriptional regulators involved in this cascade have been described. Here, we identified the basic helix‐loop‐helix (bHLH) transcription factor gene in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), METHYL JASMONATE (MeJA)‐INDUCED GENE (SlJIG), the expression of which was strongly induced by MeJA treatment. Genetic and molecular biology experiments revealed that SlJIG is a direct target of MYC2. SlJIG knockout plants generated by gene editing had lower terpene contents than the wild type from the lower expression of TERPENE SYNTHASE (TPS) genes, rendering them more appealing to cotton bollworm (Helicoverpa armigera). Moreover, SlJIG knockouts exhibited weaker JA‐mediated induction of TPSs, suggesting that SlJIG may participate in JA‐induced terpene biosynthesis. Knocking out SlJIG also resulted in attenuated expression of JA‐responsive defense genes, which may contribute to the observed lower resistance to cotton bollworm and to the fungus Botrytis cinerea. We conclude that SlJIG is a direct target of MYC2, forms a MYC2‐SlJIG module, and functions in terpene biosynthesis and resistance against cotton bollworm and B. cinerea.
Migrant diversity and team performance in a high‐skilled labour market
Authors: Addesa Francesco , Pazzona Matteo , Rossi Giambattista
Published: March 2022

From a theoretical point of view, the link between workplace diversity and performance in a high‐skilled context is ambiguous. Likewise, empirical research at the firm or plant level finds inconclusive and context‐ specific results. Using a detailed database that covers all the 3,999 matches played by Italian Serie A teams (firms) over a 10‐season period, our results reveal a substantial and robust negative effect of fractionalization on performance, whereas no effect is found for polarization. This article also highlights how the negative effect of fractionalization depends on the nature of the tasks to be completed, the wealth of the teams and the level of workers' experience. This work reveals some myopia in hiring practices and suggests that firms should make better decisions in choosing the optimal mix of workers.
Rosette‐forming glioneuronal tumours are midline, FGFR1‐mutated tumours
Authors: Appay Romain , Bielle Franck , Sievers Philipp , Barets Doriane , Fina Frédéric , Boutonnat Jean , Adam Clovis , Gauchotte Guillaume , Godfraind Catherine , Lhermitte Benoît , Maurage Claude‐Alain , Meyronet David , Mokhtari Karima , Rousseau Audrey , Tauziède‐Espariat Arnault , Tortel Marie‐Claire , Uro‐Coste Emmanuelle , Burel‐Vandenbos Fanny , Chotard Guillaume , Pesce Florian , Varlet Pascale , Colin Carole , Figarella‐Branger Dominique
Published: March 2022

Aim

Rosette‐forming glioneuronal tumour (RGNT) is a rare central nervous system (CNS) World Health Organization (WHO) grade 1 brain neoplasm. According to the WHO 2021, essential diagnostic criteria are a ‘biphasic histomorphology with neurocytic and a glial component, and uniform neurocytes forming rosettes and/or perivascular pseudorosettes associated with synaptophysin expression’ and/or DNA methylation profile of RGNT whereas ‘FGFR1 mutation with co‐occurring PIK3CA and/or NF1 mutation’ are desirable criteria.

Material and methods

We report a series of 46 cases fulfilling the essential pathological diagnostic criteria for RGNT. FGFR1 and PIK3CA hotspot mutations were searched for by multiplexed digital PCR in all cases, whereas DNA methylation profiling and/or PIK3R1 and NF1 alterations were analysed in a subset of cases.

Results

Three groups were observed. The first one included 21 intracranial midline tumours demonstrating FGFR1 mutation associated with PIK3CA or PIK3R1 (n = 19) or NF1 (n = 1) or PIK3CA and NF1 (n = 1) mutation. By DNA methylation profiling, eight cases were classified as RGNT (they demonstrated FGFR1 and PIK3CA or PIK3R1 mutations). Group 2 comprised 11 cases associated with one single FGFR1 mutation. Group 3 included six cases classified as low‐grade glioma (LGG) other than RGNT (one‐sixth showed FGFR1 mutation and one a FGFR1 and NF1 mutation) and eight cases without FGFR1 mutation. Groups 2 and 3 were enriched in lateral and spinal cases.

Conclusions

We suggest adding FGFR1 mutation and intracranial midline location as essential diagnostic criteria. When DNA methylation profiling is not available, a RGNT diagnosis remains certain in cases demonstrating characteristic pathological features and FGFR1 mutation associated with either PIK3CA or PIK3R1 mutation.
Macroevolutionary dynamics in the transition of angiosperms to aquatic environments
Authors: Meseguer Andrea S. , Carrillo Rubén , Graham Sean W. , Sanmartín Isabel
Published: March 2022

Angiosperm lineages in aquatic environments are characterized by high structural and functional diversity, and wide distributions. A long‐standing evolutionary riddle is what processes have caused the relatively low diversity of aquatic angiosperms compared to their terrestrial relatives.

We use diversification and ancestral reconstruction models with a comprehensive > 10 000 genus angiosperm phylogeny to elucidate the macroevolutionary dynamics associated with transitions of terrestrial plants to water.

Our study reveals that net diversification rates are significantly lower in aquatic than in terrestrial angiosperms due to lower speciation and higher extinction. Shifts from land to water started early in angiosperm evolution, but most events were concentrated during the lastc. 25 million years. Reversals to a terrestrial habitat started only 40 million years ago, but occurred at much higher rates. Within aquatic angiosperms, the estimated pattern is one of gradual accumulation of lineages, and relatively low and constant diversification rates throughout the Cenozoic.

Low diversification rates, together with infrequent water transitions, account for the low diversity of aquatic angiosperms today. The stressful conditions and small global surface of the aquatic habitat available for angiosperms are hypothesized to explain this pattern.
Maternal long working hours and offspring's weight‐related outcomes: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Lou Yiling , Zhu Yi , You Qiqi , Jiang Qingqing , Meng Xin , Di Hongkun , Xu Hongbin , Gan Yong , Lu Zuxun , Cao Shiyi
Published: March 2022

It is unclear whether maternal working time has an impact on offspring's weight‐related outcomes especially obesity; the objective of this study is to conduct the first meta‐analysis to focus on this topic. We searched PubMed, Ovid, and Web of Science databases through August 2021. A random‐effect model was used to assess the pooled odds ratios (ORs) and regression coefficients (β) with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs). Subgroup analyses were conducted to explore sources of heterogeneity. Publication bias was evaluated by the Egger's tests. Twenty‐two observational studies were included with a total of 191,420 participants. Compared with children whose mothers worked less than 35 h/week, we found that children whose mothers worked more than 35 to 40 h/week had a 2.24‐fold increased risk of childhood overweight/obesity (OR = 2.24, 95% CI: 1.61–3.11). An increment of 10 h/week in maternal working was associated with an approximately 1.0 percentage points in the probability of childhood overweight/obesity (β = 0.008, 95% CI: 0.004–0.012). The pooled OR also indicated a similar result (OR = 1.09, 95% CI: 1.04–1.15). In addition, an increment of 10 h/week in maternal working was associated with 0.029 units increase in offspring's BMI z score (β = 0.029, 95% CI: 0.016–0.042). Maternal long working hours is a potential risk factor for offspring's weight‐related outcomes. Measures should be taken to protect the work welfare of females, thus facilitating the positive interaction of individual–family–society.
Effects of Collagen‐Tripeptide and Galacto‐oligosaccharide Mixture on Skin Photoaging Inhibition in UVB‐exposed Hairless Mice
Authors: Han Kisoo , Hong Ki‐Bae , Ahn Yejin , Jo Kyungae , Jung Jewon , Suh Hyung Joo
Published: March 2022

Collagen‐tripeptide (CTP) and galacto‐oligosaccharide (GOS), which improve collagen homeostasis and barrier function in the skin, are widely used in the food industry to improve wrinkle‐related parameters and skin health. In this study, the photoprotective effect of CTP/GOS mixtures (3:1, 1:1, and 1:3) in ultraviolet (UV) B‐irradiated hairless mice was examined. Skin parameter analysis, histological approaches, molecular biology techniques and HPLC analysis were applied to investigate the photoaging protective effect, signaling pathways and changes in the microbiota. Oral administration of CTP/GOS mixtures ameliorated photoaged physical parameters and serum levels of pro‐inflammatory cytokines compared to UV‐irradiated control group. Administration of the 1:3 mixture showed significant changes in the extracellular matrix‐related gene expression compared to other mixture groups. The cecal short‐chain fatty acid (SCFA) content showed a significant increase in the CTP/GOS mixed group with a higher GOS content than the control group. In the 16S rRNA‐based analysis of cecal microbiota, the relative abundance ratio of the Akkermansia genus belonging to the Verrucomicrobia phylum was higher in CTP and GOS mixture‐administered groups than in the UV‐irradiated control group. Taken together, CTP/GOS mixtures showed a synergistic effect on photoprotective activity through changes in the gene expression, cytokine levels and intestinal microbiota composition.
Effects of aerobic versus cognitively demanding exercise interventions on brain structure and function in healthy children—Results from a cluster randomized controlled trial
Authors: Meijer Anna , Königs Marsh , Pouwels Petra J. W. , Smith Joanne , Visscher Chris , Bosker Roel J. , Hartman Esther , Oosterlaan Jaap
Published: March 2022

The beneficial effects of physical activity on neurocognitive functioning in children are considered to be facilitated by physical activity‐induced changes in brain structure and functioning. In this study, we examined the effects of two 14‐week school‐based exercise interventions in healthy children on white matter microstructure and brain activity in resting‐state networks (RSNs) and whether changes in white matter microstructure and RSN activity mediate the effects of the exercise interventions on neurocognitive functioning. A total of 93 children were included in this study (51% girls, mean age 9.13 years). The exercise interventions consisted of four physical education lessons per week, focusing on either aerobic or cognitively demanding exercise and were compared with a control group that followed their regular physical education program of two lessons per week. White matter microstructure was assessed using diffusion tensor imaging in combination with tract‐based spatial statistics. Independent component analysis was performed on resting‐state data to identify RSNs. Furthermore, neurocognitive functioning (information processing and attention, working memory, motor response inhibition, interference control) was assessed by a set of computerized tasks. Results indicated no Group × Time effects on white matter microstructure or RSN activity, indicating no effects of the exercise interventions on these aspects of brain structure and function. Likewise, no Group × Time effects were found for neurocognitive performance. This study indicated that 14‐week school‐based interventions regarding neither aerobic exercise nor cognitive‐demanding exercise interventions influence brain structure and brain function in healthy children. This study was registered in the Netherlands Trial Register (NTR5341).
Cardiovascular reactivity, stress, and personal emotional salience: Choose your tasks carefully
Authors: Bourassa Kyle J. , Sbarra David A.
Published: March 2022

Both greater cardiovascular reactivity and lesser reactivity (“blunting”) to laboratory stressors are linked to poor health outcomes, including among people who have a history of traumatic experiences. In a sample of recently separated and divorced adults (N = 96), this study examined whether differences in cardiovascular reactivity might be explained by differences in the personal emotional salience of the tasks and trauma history. Participants were assessed for trauma history, current distress related to their marital dissolution, and cardiovascular reactivity during two tasks, a serial subtraction math stressor task and a divorce‐recall task. Participants with a greater trauma history evidenced less blood pressure reactivity to the serial subtraction task (a low personal emotional salience task) when compared to participants with less trauma history. In contrast, participants with a greater trauma history evidenced higher blood pressure reactivity to the divorce‐recall task, but only if they also reported more divorce‐related distress (high personal emotional salience). These associations were not significant for heart rate reactivity. Among people with a history of more traumatic experiences, a task with low personal salience was associated with a lower blood pressure response, whereas a task with higher personal emotional salience was associated with a higher blood pressure response. Future studies examining cardiovascular reactivity would benefit from determining the personal emotional salience of tasks, particularly for groups that have experienced stressful life events or trauma.
The dynamics of exploited marine fish populations and Humpty Dumpty: similarities and differences
Authors: Frank Kenneth T. , Fisher Jonathan A. D. , Leggett William C.
Published: March 2022

Marine fish populations of the global oceans and particularly large‐bodied, continental shelf‐dwelling groundfish species of the North Atlantic, such as cod (Gadus morhua), have been strongly perturbed by over‐fishing, frequently beyond levels that may have altered their capacity to recover. Age and size structure, spatial structure, reproductive potential, and other traits that convey fitness advantages are commonly lost when prolonged and excessive fishing pressure is exerted. Fisheries management protocols implemented to recover collapsed populations have been numerous and varied with all attempting to reduce or eliminate fishing pressure. Such measures, employed singly or in multiple combinations, typically involve quota reductions or fishing moratoria, area closures and other technical measures, as well as enhanced enforcement of fishing practices. A striking geographic pattern exists in the efficacy of such measures to regain lost population attributes and hence recovery. Some regional populations have recovered while others, despite management interventions lasting decades, notably, but not exclusively, those aimed at cod populations of the Northwest Atlantic, have yet to fully recover, an endpoint analogous to the conclusion of the famous nursery rhyme of Humpty Dumpty. Here we examine the dynamics of multiple collapsed populations exhibiting varying responses to recovery initiatives from the perspective of the Humpty Dumpty metaphor.
Hemodiafiltration (HDF) versus expanded hemodialysis (HDx)
Authors: Maduell Francisco , Broseta José Jesús
Published: March 2022

Medium cutoff (MCO) membranes have resulted in a novel dialyzer class designed to improve membrane permeability and have been postulated as an alternative to online hemodiafiltration since MCO membranes may achieve similar solute clearances. These membranes have been incorporated into clinical practice, and the term expanded HD (HDx) has been proposed to differentiate from high‐flux hemodialysis. Efficacy, safety, and quality of life comparison of HDF versus HDx have been reviewed in this article.
DETERMINATION OF A POTENTIAL FOR THE INSTALLATION OF SMALL-SCALE WIND TURBINE IN BARANGAY BAGASBAS, DAET CAMARINES NORTE, PHILIPPINES
Authors: Olalo Joselito , Dela Cruz Catherine Joy , Bilang Ronald Gil , Bonifacio Ryan , Paringit Enrico
Published: March 2022

The wind characteristics in Barangay Bagasbas Daet, Camarines Norte, by way of 5-year win data at a 10-m elevation was analyzed using the data gathered from PAGASA or the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration. The area has an overall mean wind speed of 3.36 m/s at 75 degrees North of East. By way of Weibull model to fit the wind data distribution recording an annual wind density of 52.94 W/m2. Power curves used for the estimate of the annual generated energy are 3 KW(V), 5 KW(V), 10 KW(V), 10 KW(H) and 20 KW(H) for small-scale turbine. A value of about 17,095.23 kWh/year was expected for the annual production of energy for 20 KW(H) wind turbine. However, the 5 kW(V) wind turbine shows the highest capacity factor of 13.97%.
SUPPLEMENTARY TOOLS IN BASELINE INFORMATION BUILDING FOR WATER RESOURCES PROJECTS UNDER THE NEW NORMAL
Authors: Macuha Richmark
Published: March 2022

Research and industry-related engineering projects are affected in many ways by the COVID-19 pandemic. For example, data gathering becomes more challenging in recent times. The main objective of this paper is to demonstrate alternative ways to gather baseline data related to water resources projects. There are supplemental open-source tools available for baseline information building that are used in the past years that are expected to play more significant roles now. The data gathering phase of some projects were used as examples. Firstly, the importance and basic know-hows of Google Earth Pro ™ in the context of rapid reconnaissance and appraisal (RRA) are portrayed. Google Earth Pro’s Street View and available historical satellite images enable spatially and temporally varied virtual tour of study areas, which can help in site characterization and identification of important study and design parameters. Secondly, the use of hydrologic modeling to obtain estimates of flow data is illustrated. Hydrologic Engineering Center – Hydrologic Modeling System (HEC-HMS) is shown to be capable of generating approximate flood hydrographs for ungaged rivers and flow duration curves for water supply studies. Lastly, the capability of hydraulic models to estimate water levels is presented. Instead of getting anecdotal water levels in the field, hydraulic modeling packages such as Hydrologic Engineering Center – River Analysis System (HEC-RAS) and SOBEK-River are technically feasible to get water levels for water resources projects. Although the results are subjected to some limitations, as in the case of uncalibrated models, these provide opportunities to obtain valuable information amidst the pandemic.
MANIPULATING MEMBRANE HYDROPHOBICITY BY INTEGRATING POLYTHYLENE-COATED FUME SILICA IN PVDF MEMBRANE
Authors: Chang Pei Thing , Paranthaman Sarvveswaran , Rosli Aishah , Low Siew Chun
Published: March 2022

Membrane gas absorption (MGA) as an emerging technology exhibits superior advantages in comparison to conventional carbon dioxide (CO2) absorption processes. However, the decrease in membrane flux, induced by membrane wetting is a significant issue to be pondered upon. Thus, fabrication of an anti-wetting composite membrane is essential to retain and sustain the MGA performance. In this work, silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) is first coated with hydrophobic low-density polyethylene (LDPE). Then, integrating LDPE-HMDS/SiNPs fillers into the polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) matrix to increase its hydrophobicity. The incorporation of LDPE-coated silica into PVDF polymer enhanced the contact angle values from 71.8° to 111.8°, indicates the improvement of membrane anti-wetting ability. Despite the similar finger-like layer laid on top of the sponge-like structure for pristine and composite membranes, the incorporation of LDPE-HMDS/SiNPs has reduced in the length ratio of finger-like to sponge-like layer. The changed in the membrane morphology induced higher membrane hydrophobicity which prevent membrane from getting wet easily especially in long term of operation. In addition, EDX surface mapping and lining profiles clearly proved that the LDPE-HMDS/SiNPs were distributed evenly in the composite membranes indicates the good interfacial compatibility between PVDF polymer and LDPE-coated silica. In term of CO2 absorption flux, the embedment of LDPE-HMDS/SiNPs in PVDF polymer matrix demonstrated 2.4x10-3 mol/m2.s which was 2 times higher than that of the pristine membrane. This means the incorporation of LDPE-HMDS/SiNPs into the PVDF membrane has still played a pivotal role in overcoming membrane wetting drawbacks when in contact with the liquid absorbents.
SINGLE PILES AND PILE GROUPS CAPACITY IN UNSATURATED SANDY CLAY BASED ON LABORATORY TEST
Authors: Pujiastuti Heni , Rifa’i Ahmad , Adi Agus Darmawan , Fathani Teuku Faisal
Published: March 2022

Pile capacity is one of the controlling factors in the foundation design. In this study, compression and tension tests were carried out on model piles driven in sandy clay in a test box. The diameter of concrete single-pile models was 16 mm, with ratios of 6, 10, 15 and 20 for pile length (L) to diameter (d). The diameter and length of concrete pile group models were 10 mm and 200 mm, respectively, with four different configuration groups, i.e., single pile, two piles (2×1), three piles (triangle), and four piles (2´2). The sandy clay was prepared in three different water contents of 17.40%, 23.44%, and 27.86%. The capacities of the single piles and pile groups subjected to uplift load were smaller than those under compressive load. Increasing the pile length to the ratio of diameter (L/d) and matric suction resulted in increased capacity of single piles subject to uplifting and compressive loads. The pile groups' capacity depended on both the matric suction and the pile number in a group. The pile groups' compressive capacity in a condition of unsaturated soil (with the matric suction of soil of 73.67 kPa) increased by 294.96%-346.39% when compared to those in saturated soil conditions (with the matric suction of soil of 2.727 kPa).
Epistemologi Sains Halal: Kajian Ayat-Ayat Al-Quran Terpilih
Authors: Said Shahirah , Hanapi Mohd Shukri
Published: March 2022

Epistemologi merupakan salah satu perbincangan hierarki ilmu yang membuktikan kekuatan rujukan dan sumber ilmu. Hal ini termasuklah bidang ilmu sains halal. Kemajuan bidang sains halal telah diberi tumpuan bagi memastikan seluruh manusia bagi mendapatkan manfaat produk halal semaksimum mungkin. Sebagai contoh, penghasilan makanan ubah suai genetik, bioteknologi moden tumbuhan dan penggunaan teknologi seperti stunning dan thoracic sticking untuk membantu pihak pengeluar rumah sembelih. Namun timbul persoalan, apakah kesan perkembangan sains dan teknologi tersebut memberi manfaat kepada manusia? Apakah epistemologi bagi bidang sains halal tersebut? Memandangkan isu ini melibatkan orang Islam maka kajiannya perlu dirujuk kepada Al-Quran. Oleh itu, makalah ini mempunyai dua objektif. Pertama, mengenal pasti konsep sains halal dan kedua menganalisis ayat-ayat Al-Quran terpilih mengenai epistemologi sains halal. Kajian secara kepustakaan ini mendapati terdapat ayat Al-Quran yang membincangkan kepentingan wahyu dalam sains halal. Secara tidak langsung wahyu juga menonjolkan keterbatasan akal manusia. Justeru manusia perlu kembali kepada Al-Quran sebagai rujukan utama di samping tidak menolak peranan akal manusia dalam menginterpretasikan masalah ummah. Namun kedudukan wahyu adalah yang tertinggi dalam epistemologi menurut Islam.
An Evaluation of the Cultural Elements within Malaysian Year 1 English Textbooks: KSSR SK English Year 1 and CEFR Super Minds 1
Authors: Katawazai Rahmatullah , Haidari Mustafa , Yahya Nur Rabi’ah , Chin Leonara , Che Ibrahim Izzaida Fadhya , Muhydin Nur Muiezah , C. Sandaran Shanti
Published: March 2022

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the cultural elements of the new Malaysian Year 1 English Textbook, CEFR Super Minds 1 in comparison to the old KSSR SK English Year 1 textbook from the teachersâ€™ perspectives. This study also attempts to find out the teachersâ€™ opinions regarding the inclusion of local and foreign culture in the English textbook and to identify their preferred textbook among the two textbooks. The sample of the study is 30 English school teachers teaching Year 1 and 2 in the Johor State. A mixed-method research design was used to carry out the research. The instruments used were Likert scale checklist items and open-ended survey questions. The findings revealed that the teachers who participated in the study preferred the old textbook, KSSR SK English Year 1 over the new CEFR Super Minds 1 textbook. However, teachers also believed that while elements of local culture were important and necessary, the inclusion of foreign culture also has its benefits.Â
Developing a Corpus of Entrepreneurship Emails (COREnE) for Business Courses in Malaysian University Using Integrated Moves Approach
Authors: Shauki Baiti , Sarjit Singh Manvender Kaur
Published: March 2022

This paper describes the processes that went into the design and development of the Learner Entrepreneurship Corpus (LEC), a specialised corpus that contains pedagogical sales e-mails written by undergraduates at a Malaysian public university. It describes in detail the processes involved in data collection and selection, as well as raw data processing, which includes data coding and tagging. The tagging and coding utilised online softwares; CLAWS Tagger and AntConc. The study adopted Integrated Moves Approach (IMA) which combines both structural and syntactical analysis. This paper also discusses the evolution of corpora in Malaysia and their relevance to the field of English for Specific Purposes (ESP). LEC was created with the goal of providing corpus linguistic researchers with a place to explore the field, as well as ESP practitioners in Malaysia with resources for developing local-based ESP curriculum and teaching and learning materials. LEC has approximately 18 thousand words from 89 electronic documents retrieved from eCampus website. At present, users can make queries to access LEC from the researcher for free.
Aplikasi Teknik Rasulullah Dalam Membentuk Kecerdasan Emosi (Application Of Rasulullah’s Technique In Shaping Emotional Intelligence)
Authors: Abdul Rahman Hanisah , Muhamad Siti Norlina
Published: March 2022

The ability to manage emotion is one of the important factors to success. A good intellectual’s person is not necessarily able to overcome conflicts in life. Life conflicts require other skills known as emotional intelligence. Emotional intelligence is a combination of cognitive and emotion and affects one's behavior and achievement In Islam, Prophet Muhammad as a reference to this community also emphasizes the aspect of emotional intelligence in achieving happiness. Therefore, this study examines emotional intelligence in Prophet Muhammad’s life and its impact on psychological health. This study uses a qualitative approach, content analysis design. Based on the analysis, emotional intelligence can be seen from various aspects of Prophet’s life such as teacher, family leader, preacher and ruler. High and proper emotional intelligence creates a healthy mental and soul in various life situations.
Exploring Students’ Motivation In Tahfiz Class In Selected Private Islamic Secondary Schools: A Case Study
Authors: Nik Abdullah Nik Md. Saiful Azizi , Mohd Sabbri Fathiyah Solehah , Muhammad Isa Rabi'atul Athirah
Published: March 2022

This research sought to explore the factors behind student motivation in the memorization of the Quran. A qualitative study through semi-structured interview with six participants selected from private islamic secondary schools. The findings showed that parents, teachers and the participants themselves influenced student motivation in the memorization of the Quran. The role of parental guidance and advice were the most influential factors leading to motivation among students in memorization of the Quran. Implications of this study, the students themselves and teachers were also sources of motivation to memorize. At the same time, teachers should always assist and help students in their memorization of the Quran. That way, students will feel more confident to continue their memorization. Therefore, this study can be helpful as a reference in lowering the gap on motivation in Quranic memorization. Hence, the researchers believe that this study will be much help for the other researchers to continue and elaborate more on the field of Quranic memorization concerning motivation.
Deployment Dynamics of Miura Origami Sheets
Authors: Xia Yutong , Kidambi Narayanan , Filipov Evgueni , Wang K. W.
Published: March 2022

Origami has great potential for creating deployable structures, however, most studies have focused on their static or kinematic features, while the complex and yet important dynamic behaviors of the origami deployment process have remained largely unexplored. In this research, we construct a dynamic model of a Miura origami sheet that captures the combined panel inertial and flexibility effects, which are otherwise ignored in rigid folding kinematic models but are critical in describing the dynamics of origami deployment. Results show that by considering these effects, the dynamic deployment behavior would substantially deviate from a nominal kinematic unfolding path. Additionally, the pattern geometries influence the effective structural stiffness, and it is shown that subtle changes can result in qualitatively different dynamic deployment behaviors. These differences are due to the multistability of the Miura origami sheet, where the structure may snap between its stable equilibria during the transient deployment process. Lastly, we show that varying the deployment rate can affect the dynamic deployment configuration. These observations are original and these phenomena have not and cannot be derived using traditional approaches. The tools and outcomes developed from this research enable a deeper understanding of the physics behind origami deployment that will pave the way for better designs of origami-based deployable structures, as well as extend our fundamental knowledge and expand our comfort zone beyond current practice.
New Measurements on the Faraday Generator and New Questions About Induction
Authors: Haertel Hermann
Published: March 2022

The question of how the processes around the Faraday generator with its rotating magnet should be interpreted has been controversial since its discovery by Faraday. Does the magnetic field rotate together with the rotating magnet or does it remain stationary? Furthermore, does one only need Faraday’s flux law to interpret inductive processes, or are there processes in which this law fails and a satisfactory explanation can only be found with the help of the Lorentz force? This question seemed to have been re-solved recently in favor of Faraday’s flux law, which has been described as a universal law that applies without exception to every conceivable case. The measurements presented here raise doubts as to the validity of this interpretation.
Determining Gravitational Acceleration Accurately and Simply
Authors: Pinto Albino Rafael , Saraiva Carlos
Published: March 2022

There are several ways in the literature to determine the value of gravitational acceleration. we will present a way that allows us to determine the we used an audio plug (3.5-mm jack) that can be reused from types of plugs can also be purchased and are very cheap. In this article, a computer speaker or microphone that are damaged. These value of gravitational acceleration very accurately using every-day materials. For this, we will use an electromagnet, a coil, a steel sphere, a speaker, an audio cable (3.5-mm jack), a direct current power supply, connecting wires, a computer, and the Audacity software.
Head-related transfer function measurements in a compartment fire
Authors: Abbasi Mustafa Z. , Wilson Preston S. , Ezekoye Ofodike A.
Published: March 2022

The Personal Alert Safety System (PASS) is an alarm signal device carried by firefighters to help rescuers locate and extricate downed firefighters. A fire creates temperature gradients and inhomogeneous time-varying temperature, density, and flow fields that modify the acoustic properties of a room. To understand the effect of the fire on an alarm signal, experimental measurements of head-related transfer functions (HRTF) in a room with fire are presented in time and frequency domains. The results show that low-frequency (<1000 Hz) modes in the HRTF increase in frequency and higher-frequency modal structure weakens and becomes unstable in time. In the time domain, the time difference of arrival between the ears changes and becomes unstable over time. Both of these effects could impact alarm signal detection and localization. The receive level of narrowband tones is presented that shows that the fire makes the receive level of a source vary by > 10 dB. All of these effects could impact the detection and localization of the PASS alarm and have life safety consequences.
How to analyse and represent quantitative soundscape data
Authors: Mitchell Andrew , Aletta Francesco , Kang Jian
Published: March 2022

This study first examines the methods presented in ISO 12913 for analysing and representing soundscape data by applying them to a large existing database of soundscape assessments. The key issue identified is the inability of the standard methods to summarise the soundscape of locations and groups. The presented solution inherently considers the variety of responses within a group and provides an open-source visualisation tool to facilitate a nuanced approach to soundscape assessment and design. Several demonstrations of the soundscape distribution of urban spaces are presented, along with proposals for how this approach can be used and developed.
Mechanically reinforced biotubes for arterial replacement and arteriovenous grafting inspired by architectural engineering
Authors: Zhi Dengke , Cheng Quhan , Midgley Adam C. , Zhang Qiuying , Wei Tingting , Li Yi , Wang Ting , Ma Tengzhi , Rafique Muhammad , Xia Shuang , Cao Yuejuan , Li Yangchun , Li Jing , Che Yongzhe , Zhu Meifeng , Wang Kai , Kong Deling
Published: March 2022

There is a lack in clinically-suitable vascular grafts. Biotubes, prepared using in vivo tissue engineering, show potential for vascular regeneration. However, their mechanical strength is typically poor. Inspired by architectural design of steel fiber reinforcement of concrete for tunnel construction, poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) fiber skeletons (PSs) were fabricated by melt-spinning and heat treatment. The PSs were subcutaneously embedded to induce the assembly of host cells and extracellular matrix to obtain PS-reinforced biotubes (PBs). Heat-treated medium-fiber-angle PB (hMPB) demonstrated superior performance when evaluated by in vitro mechanical testing and following implantation in rat abdominal artery replacement models. hMPBs were further evaluated in canine peripheral arterial replacement and sheep arteriovenous graft models. Overall, hMPB demonstrated appropriate mechanics, puncture resistance, rapid hemostasis, vascular regeneration, and long-term patency, without incidence of luminal expansion or intimal hyperplasia. These optimized hMPB properties show promise as an alternatives to autologous vessels in clinical applications.
Imaging dynamic three-dimensional traction stresses
Authors: Li Yuanzhe , Bai Pengpeng , Cao Hui , Li Lvzhou , Li Xinxin , Hou Xin , Fang Jingbo , Li Jingyang , Meng Yonggang , Ma Liran , Tian Yu
Published: March 2022

Traction stress between contact objects is ubiquitous and crucial for various physical, biological, and engineering processes such as momentum transfer, tactile perception, and mechanical reliability. Newly developed techniques including electronic skin or traction force microscopy enable traction stress measurement. However, measuring the three-dimensional distribution during a dynamic process remains challenging. Here, we demonstrated a method based on stereo vision to measure three-dimensional traction stress with high spatial and temporal resolution. It showed the ability to image the two-stage adhesion failure of bionic microarrays and display the contribution of elastic resistance and adhesive traction to rolling friction at different contact regions. It also revealed the distributed sucking and sealing effect of the concavity pedal waves that propelled a snail crawling in the horizontal, vertical, and upside-down directions. We expected that the method would advance the understanding of various interfacial phenomena and greatly benefit related applications across physics, biology, and robotics.