bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From green to grey: unravelling the role of urbanization on diversity of dung beetles in Amazonian landscapes
Authors: Correa César M. A. , Salomão Renato Portela , Alvarado Fredy , Guzzo Elio Cesar , Ferreira Kleyton Rezende
Published: December 2022

The Brazilian Amazon has undergone an intense process of urbanization responsible for changes in the land use and land cover patterns in the last decades. Therefore, understanding the impacts resulting from the urbanization of Amazon become urgent, both to preserve biodiversity and associated ecosystem functions and services, since Amazon region comprise a key ecosystem regarding biodiversity and ecological dynamics. We studied, for the first time, the impact of urbanization on dung beetles, a recognized bioindicator group, in Amazonian landscapes. For this, we assessed the dung beetle taxonomic and functional responses along a preserved-rural-urban habitat gradient in an Amazonian city, and how landscape predictors affect dung beetle diversity. We found a consistent shift in species composition and reduction of both taxonomic and functional diversity from forest patches located outside the city towards those located in the city core. In addition, forest cover was the main driver of dung beetle responses at the landscape scale, where the increase of forest cover positively affected dung beetle diversity. Our results provide evidence that urbanization negatively impacts the dung beetle taxonomic and functional diversity in Amazonian cities, and reinforce the importance of maintaining forest cover to conserve dung beetles in tropical forests. Finally, the development of sustainable initiatives for the conservation of biodiversity in urban landscapes, such as public policies aimed at the maintenance of urban forest fragments, can help to maintain biodiversity and ecosystem processes within cities and to mitigate the urbanization impacts.
Measuring real-time cognitive engagement in remote audiences
Authors: Levordashka Ana , Fraser Danaë Stanton , Gilchrist Iain D.
Published: December 2022

Responses to arts and entertainment media offer a valuable window into human behaviour. Many individuals worldwide spend the vast majority of their leisure time engaging with video content at home. However, there are few ways to study engagement and attention in this natural home viewing context. We used motion-tracking of the head via a web-camera to successfully measure real-time cognitive engagement in 132 individuals while they watched 30 minutes of streamed theatre content at home. Head movement was negatively associated with engagement across a constellation of measures. Individuals who moved less reported feeling more engaged and immersed, evaluated the performance as more engaging, and were more likely to express interest in watching further. Our results demonstrate the value of in-home remote motion tracking as a low-cost, scalable metric of cognitive engagement, which can be used to collect audience behaviour data in a natural setting.
From polyethylene waste bottles to UIO-66 (Zr) for preconcentration of steroid hormones from river water
Authors: Selahle Shirley Kholofelo , Nqombolo Azile , Nomngongo Philiswa Nosizo
Published: December 2022

Metal organic framework (UiO-66 (Zr) was synthesized using polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and used as an adsorbent for extraction and preconcentration of steroid hormones in river water. Polyethylene waste bottles were used as the source of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) ligands. Various analytical characterization techniques were employed to characterize the synthesized material. The steroid hormones were detected and quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detector (HPLC-DAD). The results were further validated using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS). Experimental variables, such as sample pH, mass of adsorbent and extraction time, were optimised using Box-Behnken design (BBD). The dispersive solid phase extraction method combined with HPLC-DAD, displayed good linearity (0.004–1000 µg/L) low limits of detections (LODs, 1.1–16 ng/L for ultrapure water and 2.6–5.3 ng/L for river water) and limits of quantification (LOQs, 3.7–5.3 ng/L for ultrapure water and 8.7–11.0 ng/L for river water samples) and acceptable extraction recoveries (86–101%). The intraday (n = 10) and interday (n = 5) precisions expressed in terms of relative standard deviations (%RSD), were all less than 5%. The steroid hormones were detected in most of the river water samples (Vaal River and Rietspruit River). The DSPE/HPLC method offered a promising approach for simultaneous extraction, preconcentration and determination of steroid hormones in water.
Combining desiccant dehumidification with Hot Air and Microwave food drying: a sustainable and economical method to produce dried snacks
Authors: Usama Muhammad , Ali Muhammad , Hayat Khizar , Ahmad Ammar , Ali Zaib
Published: December 2022

Solar hot air drying is a food dehydration method that is quickly gaining traction in South Asia due to its very low capital and operational cost. The long drying time and high temperature are the primary sinks of product quality in this process. The deterioration of cosmetic quality of food due to exposure to high temperatures over prolonged durations is an economical challenge as well since it results in a portion of dried product to be discarded. The objective of this work was to reduce the energy consumption and drying time, while obtaining a product quality competitive with energy extensive methods. To achieve this objective, a combined desiccant-convection-radiation dryer was designed and tested. A solar powered thermally regenerated desiccant dehumidifier was installed upstream of a Hot air – Microwave combined food dehydrator. The experimental results were compared with and without desiccant dehumidification. ‘Solanum tuberosum’ potato was cut into 3 mm thick slices and identical control samples of the potato slices were dehydrated using Hot air drying at 60 oC, Microwave drying at 1 kW Microwave power, Combined Hot air – Microwave drying, and Desiccant assisted Microwave – Convection drying. The drying time of the control sample with Desiccant assisted Hot air – Microwave drying was found to be the lowest, resulting in 81.7% reduction in drying time compared to Hot air Convection drying, 27.7% compared to MW drying and 13.3% compared to Microwave – Convection drying. The color retention was also found to be the highest for Desiccant assisted Microwave – Convection drying. The dried potato slices preserved 87.8% of their original color with this method, which is comparable to the results that are obtained with Freeze Drying.
Hepatitis B vaccination coverage and associated factors among medical students: A Cross-Sectional Study in Bosaso, Somalia 2021
Authors: Ali Abdifitah , Hussein Nur , Elmi Elmi Omar Haji , Ismail Abdiwahid , Abdi Mohamed
Published: December 2022

Background
Hepatitis B virus infection is considered a serious health problem in developing countries since it causes chronic liver cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and hepatic failure. The risk of acquiring HBV is four times higher in HCWs compared to non-HCWs. Medical students are also considered a high-risk group for HBV infection for their exposure to body fluids and blood during medical training in health facilities. The purpose of this study is to evaluate HBV vaccination coverage and associated factors among medical students in Bosaso universities, Somalia.
Methodology:
An institutional-based cross-sectional study has been conducted in four universities. The online raosoft sample size calculator has been used to calculate the sample size. A stratified sampling method is employed to draw participants from the four universities. In each university, the research participants were selected using a simple random sampling technique. Self-administered questionnaires have been distributed among 247 medical students. Data were analyzed by using the SPSS version 21, and findings were presented in tables, and proportions.
Results
Only 2.8% were fully vaccinated, while 5.3% have ever started taking the HBV doses. The main reasons for not getting vaccinated against Hep B included unavailability of the vaccines (32.8%), high vaccine cost (26.7%), fear of vaccine side effects (12.6%), lack of trust in vaccine quality (8.5%,), lack of awareness of the vaccine whereabouts (5.7%), and lack of time (2.8%). Occupation, monthly income, marital status, and availability of testing policy in the workplace were associated with HBV vaccine uptake with a correlation coefficient of 0.3, 0.2, 0.13, and 0.2, respectively (P-value < 0.05). 73.7% of the respondents scored higher than the average knowledge score regarding knowledge of HBV.
Conclusion
The vaccination coverage among medical students in Bosaso was very low (2.8%) and sheds light on the urgent importance of a National HBV infection elimination policy to be developed with Hep B vaccines being available and easily accessible to those at high risk including medical students. Expansion of the sample size to include multiple cities for increased representativeness plus Hepatitis B titer tests is recommended.
Relationship between Vitamin D Status and Caries Incidence in a Group of Egyptian Children: A cross-sectional Study
Authors: Elshiekh Manal Ahmed , Hanafy Rasha Mohamed Hatem
Published: December 2022

Background: Dental caries is one of the most common diseases of childhood. It affects the health and well-being of young children. Evidence suggests that malnutrition and vitamin deficiency may increase the risk to dental caries.
Aim: The present study was conducted to determine the relationship between vitamin D and dental caries in children.
Subjects and methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out on 51 Egyptian children, aged from three to five years old and diagnosed from Abu Rish Children’s Hospital as ‘Sufficient’, ‘Insufficient’ or ‘Deficient’ in vitamin D. Children were divided into 3 equal groups (17 children each). For each child, a structured questionnaire, formed of four sections, was answered by the parents. Dental examination was performed under natural daylight, and caries index (dmf), for each group, was calculated and then compared.
Results: There was a medium negative statistically significant correlation between vitamin D levels and dmf scores (p=0.002). The highest mean dmf value was found in children with deficient levels (6.76±2.68), followed by those with insufficient levels (5.71±2.85), while the lowest value was found in children with sufficient levels of vitamin D (4.06±2.54). Most of cases not having gingivitis (p=0.704), not taking fluoride supplements (p=0.764), not brushing their teeth (p=0.896), not eating sugary snacks (p=0.492). There was a significant difference between the three groups (p=0.002) regarding the frequency of dental visits; most of them never go to the dentist except in pain.
Conclusion: There is an inverse association between vitamin D levels and dental caries status in preschool children.
Effect of Silica in Cementitious Composites Using Thermodynamic Modeling
Authors: Shanmugasundaram N , Praveenkumar S
Published: December 2022

This article examines the effect of silica on pozzolanic performance of Portland cement blended with Ground Granulated Blast furnace Slag (GGBS), and Bagasse Ash (BA). Using the thermodynamic modeling and X-Ray powder Diffraction technique (XRD), the effect of different water to binder ratios in cementitious composites is analyzed through the hydration process of the proposed mixes. The hydration of the composites involves the formation of Portlandite, Calcium-Silicate Hydrate (C-S-H), tricalcium silicate (C3S), dicalcium silicate (C2S), tricalcium aluminate (C3A), tetracalcium aluminoferrite (C4AF) and ettringite at 28 days. The results of thermodynamic modeling are compared with XRD technique, compressive strength and strength activity index test. Portland cement blended with GGBS attained better pozzolanic activity with 0.3 and 0.35 water to binder ratios than admixed BA. Also, the hydration products predicted from thermodynamic modeling and XRD peaks are highly resound in compressive strength and strength activity index tests.
Towards functionally individualized designed footwear recommendation for overuse injury prevention: A Scoping Review
Authors: Mai Patrick , Robertz Leon , Robbin Johanna , Bill Kevin , Weir Gillian , Kurz Markus , Trudeau Matthieu B. , Hollander Karsten , Hamill Joseph , Willwacher Steffen
Published: December 2022

Running shoes were categorized either as motion control, cushioned, or minimal footwear in the past. Today, these categories blur and are not as clearly defined. Moreover, with the advances in manufacturing processes, it is possible to create individualized running shoes that incorporate features that meet individual biomechanical and experiential needs. However, specific ways to individualize footwear to reduce individual injury risk are poorly understood. Therefore, the purpose of this scoping review was to provide an overview of (1) footwear design features that have the potential for individualization; (2) human biomechanical variability as a theoretical foundation for individualization; (3) the literature on the differential responses to footwear design features between selected groups of individuals. These purposes focus exclusively on reducing running-related risk factors for overuse injuries. We included studies in the English language on adults that analyzed: (1) potential interaction effects between footwear design features and subgroups of runners or covariates (e.g., age, gender) for running-related biomechanical risk factors or injury incidences; (2) footwear perception for a systematically modified footwear design feature. Most of the included articles (n = 107) analyzed male runners. Several footwear design features (e.g., midsole characteristics, upper, outsole profile) show potential for individualization. However, the overall body of literature addressing individualized footwear solutions and the potential to reduce biomechanical risk factors is limited. Future studies should leverage more extensive data collections considering relevant covariates and subgroups while systematically modifying isolated footwear design features to inform footwear individualization.
Clinical profile of children under 5 years of age with rotavirus diarrhoea in a hospital setting in Kisangani, DRC, after the introduction of the rotavirus vaccine, a cross-sectional study
Authors: Gbebangi-Manzemu Didier , Kampunzu Véronique Muyobela , Vanzwa Hortense Malikidogo , Mumbere Mupenzi , Bukaka Gaspard Mande , Likele Bibi Batoko , Kasai Emmanuel Tebandite , Mukinay Benoit Mbiya , Tonen-Wolyec Serge , Dauly Nestor Ngbonda , Opara Jean Pierre Alworong'a
Published: December 2022

Background: The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is one of the countries with the highest rotavirus mortality rate in the world. The aim of this study was to describe the clinical features of rotavirus infection after the introduction of rotavirus vaccination of children in the city of Kisangani, DRC.
Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study of acute diarrhoea in children under 5 years of age admitted to 4 hospitals in Kisangani, DRC. Rotavirus was detected in children's stools by an immuno-chromatographic antigenic rapid diagnostic test.
Results: A total of 165 children under 5 years of age were included in the study. We obtained 59 with rotavirus infection, or 36% CI95 [27, 45]. The majority of children with rotavirus infection were unvaccinated (36 cases) and had watery diarrhoea (47 cases), of high frequency 9.6±3.4 and accompanied by severe dehydration (30 cases).
Conclusion: Rotavirus infection in hospitalized children under 5 years of age is characterized by a severe clinical manifestation. Epidemiological surveillance is needed to identify risk factors associated with the infection.
Fish and benthic communities in an offshore and well-managed coral reef after bleaching disturbance in the Philippines
Authors: Quimpo Timothy Joseph , Requilme Jeremiah , Gomez Elizabeth , Sayco Sherry Lyn , Dumalagan Edwin , Siringan Fernando , Conaco Cecilia , Cabaitan Patrick
Published: December 2022

Climate change is perhaps the greatest threat to coral reefs worldwide. However, there is spatial variation in the extent and severity of this disturbance, with offshore and well-managed reefs presumed to minimize the consequences. In this study, fish and benthic communities at the offshore and well-managed reefs of Apo Reef Natural Park, Philippines was examined during (2016), 2 years (2018) and 3 years (2019) after bleaching disturbance. Fish and benthic surveys were conducted on scuba at 5 sites at depths of 8-10m. Results showed that benthic communities varied more strongly with year attributed to changes in the benthic cover of coral. These changes were also influenced by site, with some sites experiencing coral loss of 41–48%, while at other sites there were minimal changes. These site differences were associated with the cover of coral pre-bleaching, with higher cover prior to the disturbance contributing to larger losses. Fish communities varied more with sites associated with differences in the predominant benthos among sites. The stability of fish communities with year despite coral loss may be attributed to the variable loss of coral cover among sites. For sites that experienced high losses of coral cover, the presence of alternative and/or deeper habitats may have provided shelter and food for fishes maintaining taxonomic composition within sites. This study shows that bleaching disturbance circumvents localized protection, but impacts are variable even at small (≤ 3km) spatial scales. Community composition pre-bleaching and alternative habitats seem to buffer against the consequences of bleaching disturbance.
Bioinformatic Identification of GPN1 as a Novel Prognostic and Immunological Biomarker for LUAD and other tumors
Authors: Wang Xiaopeng , Jiang Cen , Lin Ruirong
Published: December 2022

The effect of GPN1 on lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and pan-cancer remains uncertain. Therefore, the current study aimed to characterise the oncological and immunological roles of GPN1 in LUAD by performing a multifaceted analysis based on the TCGA database (including gene expression analysis, survival analysis, tumour–immune interactions, and functional clustering analysis). In addition, a comprehensive biological landscape of GPN1 was depicted by performing a pan-cancer analysis. Our results demonstrated that the expression levels of GPN1 in LUAD tissues were significantly higher than in nontumourous tissue. High expression of GPN1 predicted poor prognosis in LUAD patients, evidenced by unfavourable OS, DSS and PFI. Overexpression of GPN1 was also significantly associated with advanced N stage, advanced AJCC pathologic stage and a large number of pack-years smoked. Moreover, a multivariate analysis identified GPN1 expression as an independent prognostic risk factor for LUAD. Furthermore, high expression of GPN1 showed a strongly negative correlation with immunoscores but a positive correlation with an abundance of several immunosuppressive cells, indicating that GPN1 was highly likely to play an important role in modulating the tumour microenvironment (TME) and modifying an immunosuppressive microenvironment in LUAD. Finally, a systematic pan-cancer analysis identified GPN1 as a prognostic and immunological biomarker for multiple other cancer types. In summary, our research demonstrated that GPN1 can function as a prognostic and immunological marker in LUAD and multiple other tumours.
Environmental factors affecting akinete germination and resting cell awakening of two cyanobacteria
Authors: Kwon Daeryul , Park Chaehong , Kim Keonhee , Jo Hyunjin , Lee Sang Deuk , Yun Suk Min
Published: December 2022

Globally, cyanobacteria frequently cause blooms that outcompete other species in the waterbody, affecting the diversity, decreasing water exchange rates, and promoting eutrophication that leads to excessive algal growth. Here,Dolichospermum circinalis(akinetes) andMicrocystic aeruginosa(resting cells), were isolated from the sediment in the Uiam Dam in the North Han River and near Ugok Bridge in the Nakdong River, respectively. The morphology, germination process and rates, and growth was evaluated in different environmental conditions.D. cercinalisgermination began on day two of culturing, with maximum cell growth observed on day ten. In contrast,M. aeruginosaexhibited daily increase in cell density and colony size, with notable density increase on day six. Next, different environmental conditions were assessed. Akinetes exhibited high germination rates at low light intensity (5—30 µmol/m2/s), whereas resting cells exhibited high growth rates at high light intensity (50—100 µmol/m2/s). Furthermore, both cell types exhibited optimum germination and growth in media containing N and P at 20—30° at a pH of 7—9. Our study reveals the optimum conditions for the germination and growth of cyanobacterial akinetes and resting cells isolated from river sediment, respectively, and will assist in predicting cyanobacterial blooms for appropriate management.
Comparison of short-term surgical outcome and long-term survival between emergency and elective surgery for colorectal cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhou Haiyan , Jin Yongyan , Wang Jun , Chen Guofeng , Chen Jian , Yu Shaojun
Published: December 2022

Background: The objective of this study was to summarize data from previous relevant reports and perform a meta-analysis to compare short-term surgical outcomes and long-term oncological outcomes between emergency resection and elective resection for colorectal cancer(CRC).
Methods: A systematic literature search was performed using PubMed and Embase databases and relevant data were extracted. Postoperative morbidity and mortality within 30 days, postoperative recovery, overall survival(OS) and relapse-free survival(RFS) of the two surgical nature were compared using a fixed or random-effect model.
Results: In total, we identified 28 relevant studies involving 353,686 participants for this systematic review and meta-analysis, and 23.5%(83,054/353,686) of CRC patients underwent emergency surgery. Based on the included reports, the incidence of emergency presentations in CRC patients ranged from 2.7% to 38.8%. Lymph node yield of emergency surgery was comparable to that of elective surgery(WMD:0.70, 95%CI:-0.74,2.14, P=0.340; I2=80.6%). Emergency surgery had a higher risk of postoperative complications(OR:1.83, 95%CI:1.62-2.07, P<0.001; I2=10.6%) and mortality within 30 days(OR:4.62, 95%CI:4.18-5.10, P<0.001; I2=42.9%) than elective surgery for CRC. In terms of long-term oncological outcomes, emergency surgery significantly associated with recurrence(HR for RFS: 1.51, 95%CI:1.24-1.83, P<0.001; I2=58.9%) and poorer OS(HR:1.60, 95%CI: 1.47-1.73, P<0.001; I2=63.4%) in CRC patients. Subgroup analysis for colon cancer patients revealed a pooled HR of 1.73 for OS(95% CI:1.52-1.96, P<0.001), without evidence of significant heterogeneity(I2=21.2%).
Conclusion: Emergency resection for CRC had an adverse impact on short-term surgical outcomes and long-term survival. A focus on early screening programs and health education were warranted to reduce emergency presentations of CRC patients.
Prospective Newborn Screening for SCID in Germany: A first analysis by the Pediatric Immunology Working Group (API)
Authors: Speckmann Carsten , Nennstiel Uta , Hönig Manfred , Albert Michael H. , Ghosh Sujal , Schütz Catharina , Brockow Inken , Hörster Friederike , Niehues Tim , Ehl Stephan , Wahn Volker , Borte Stephan , Lehmberg Kai , Baumann Ulrich , Beier Rita , Krüger Renate , Kuehl Joern-Sven , Klemann Christian , Kontny Udo , Holzer Ursula , Meinhardt Andrea , Morbach Henner , Naumann Nora , Rothoeft Tobias , Kreins Alexandra Y , Davies Edward G , Schneider Dominik , von Bernuth Horst , Klingebiel Thomas , Hoffmann Georg , Schulz Ansgar , Hauck Fabian H
Published: December 2022

Background
T-cell receptor excision circle (TREC)-based newborn screening (NBS) for severe combined immunodeficiencies (SCID) was introduced in Germany in August 2019.
Methods
Children with abnormal TREC-NBS were referred to a newly established network of Combined Immunodeficiency (CID) Clinics and Centers. The Working Group for Pediatric Immunology (API) and German Society for Newborn Screening (DGNS) performed 6-monthly surveys to assess the TREC-NBS process after 2.5 years.
Results
Among 1.9 million screened newborns, 88 patients with congenital T-cell lymphocytopenia were identified (25 SCID, 17 leaky SCID/Omenn Syndrome (OS)/idiopathic T-cell lymphocytopenia and 46 syndromic disorders). A genetic diagnosis was established in 88%. Twenty-six patients underwent hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), 23/26 within 4 months of life. Of these, 25/26 (96%) were alive at last follow-up. Two patients presented with in-utero onset OS and died shortly after birth. Five patients with syndromic disorders underwent thymus transplantation. Eight syndromic patients deceased, all from non-immunological complications. TREC-NBS missed one patient, who later presented clinically, and one tracking failure occurred after an inconclusive screening result.
Conclusion
TREC-NBS was successfully incorporated into German NBS and represents the largest prospective European TREC-NBS cohort at this point. The incidence of SCID/leaky SCID/OS in Germany is approximately 1:54.000. The overall incidence of severe congenital T-cell lymphocytopenia is 1:21.000. The newly founded API-CID network facilitates tracking and treatment of identified patients. Short-term HSCT outcome was excellent, but NBS and transplant registries will remain essential to evaluate the long-term outcome and to compare results across the rising numbers of TREC-NBS programs across Europe.
Assessing the implementation of physical activity-promoting public policies in Ireland: A Study using the Physical Activity Environment Policy Index (PA-EPI)
Authors: Volf Kevin , Kelly Liam , Hoye Aurelie Van , Bengoechea Enrique García , MacPhail Ann , Woods Catherine B.
Published: December 2022

Background: Government policy can promote physical activity (PA) as part of a multilevel systems-based approach. The Physical Activity Environment Policy Index (PA-EPI) is a tool which assesses the implementation of government policy on PA by drawing on the experience of national stakeholders. This study is the first to assess the extent of policy implementation using the PA-EPI tool and provides information on how PA policy implementation can be improved thereby maximising policy impact.
Methods: This study was undertaken in 8 steps. The first steps involved collecting information about the implementation of PA policy in Ireland. and validating this information with government officials. A panel of 32 independent PA stakeholders were consulted and asked to rate the extent of implementation of all indicators of the PA-EPI. Finally, based on this information recommendations for implementation actions were generated, identified and disseminated.
Results: Of the 45 indicators of the PA-EPI, one indicator received a rating of “None / Very Little”, 25 received a rating of “Low” and 19 received a “Medium” implementation Rating. No indicator was rated as fully implemented but the best implemented indicators related to sustained mass media campaigns promoting PA and the PA monitoring. We generated a shortlist of 10 priority recommendations for implementation.
Conclusions: In Ireland, over half of the indicators received a low score for implementation. Our study reveals substantial implementation gaps and provides a pathway for addressing these gaps. In time, studies utilising the PA-EPI will enable cross country comparison and benchmarking of PA policy implementation.
Pyrazole-sulfonamide scaffold featuring dual-tail strategy as apoptosis inducers in colon cancer. Design, synthesis, biological, and docking studies
Authors: Zaher Nashwa H. , El-Hazek Reham M. M. , Emam Hagar E. S. , El-Gazzar Marwa G. , Khalil Amira
Published: December 2022

Dual-tail strategy has been successfully utilized in the development of novel carbonic anhydrase IX inhibitors. Herein we adopted this approach in the design and synthesis of a series of novel pyridine sulfonamide-pyrazole hybrid scaffold mimicking dual-tail inhibitors of carbonic anhydrase IX. A library of 15 compounds was synthesized and assessed for their potential cytotoxic effects against colorectal cancer cells. Compounds 3, and 11 induced potential cytotoxic effects against the three cancer cell lines (HCT-116, HT-29, and SW-620) with IC50s’ of 45.88, 28.27, and 16.57 uM, 25.01, 8.997, and 3.275 uM respectively on the three used cell lines. Both compounds induced cellular apoptosis on HCT-116 and SW-620 cells, while compound 3 induced necrosis as well. In addition, both compounds induced cell cycle arrest on G0/G1, and S phases. Also, compound 11 showed potential autophagy induction on both colon cancer cell lines (HCT-116, and HT-29), and a little bit on metastatic type. The migration rates of HCT-116 and the metastatic one SW-620 were reduced by both compounds. Finally, Compounds 3 and 11 were docked into the active site of CA IX and the obtained results were confirmed by evaluating the in vitro inhibitory activity for both compounds.
Rethinking VMT: Factors affecting household VMT focusing on differences between ICEVs and EVs
Authors: Kwon Kihyun
Published: December 2022

This study examines factors affecting household vehicle miles traveled (VMT) with a focus on the differences between electric vehicles (EVs) and conventional internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs). This study mainly utilizes detailed individual-level data from the 2017 National Household Travel Survey-California Add-on (2017 NHTS-CA). We first classify households into three groups such as 1) households with only ICEVs, 2) households with only EVs, and 3) households with both ICEVs and EVs. We then employ OLS regression models to analyze the determinants of household VMT across three groups. Second, we focus on households with both ICEVs and EVs to look at the substitute patterns between ICEVs and EVs. We employ the Seemingly Unrelated Regression (SUR) model to analyze total household VMT and its distribution among ICEVs and EVs. Some key findings are as follows. First, households with only EVs tend to have lower household VMT than others. Second, available EV charging stations near residential locations lead to longer households VMT in households with only EVs. Third, employment density has different effects on household VMT by groups. For instance, high employment density leads to shorter household VMT in households with only ICEVs and with both ICEVs and EVs. On the other hand, high employment density reveals a statistically positive effect on household VMT in households with only EVs. Lastly, in households with both ICEVs and EVs, the share of EV VMT is likely to increase in total household VMT if EVs are used more for work trips and shopping/family errands.
A Novel Methodological Framework for Design for Additive Manufacturing for Sheet Metal Tooling
Authors: JAMES SAGIL , Buddine Brian
Published: December 2022

Additive manufacturing (AM) has the ability to benefit sheet metal manufacturing industries by implementing novel design solutions for tools and dies. However, there is a lack of support for the use of additive manufacturing in sheet metal manufacturing. Unfortunately, designers do not have proficient guidance for incorporating these innovative strategies. Existing Design for Additive Manufacturing (DFAM) approaches are precisely reviewed in this paper. They are then analyzed further by being related to conventional sheet metal manufacturing processes. However, existing DFAM guidelines do not provide a complete development process for design and manufacturing. Therefore, a novel methodological framework for DFAM of tools in sheet metal fabrication processes is proposed. Existing design strategies for sheet metal tooling through conventional manufacturing and additive manufacturing are utilized in the new DFAM modular framework. A case study example follows the DFAM framework to offer designers additional guidance through the design and manufacturing stages for sheet metal tooling with the use of additive manufacturing as a secondary process.
Microbial communities in the deep-sea sediments of the South São Paulo Plateau, Southwestern Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Gusmão Ana Carolina Bercini , Peres Francielli Vilela , Paula Fabiana , Pellizari Vivian Helena , Kolm Hedda Elisabeth , Signori Camila Negrão
Published: December 2022

Microbial communities play a key role in the ocean, acting as primary producers, nutrient recyclers, and energy providers. The São Paulo Plateau is a region located on the southeastern coast of Brazil, with economic importance due to its oil and gas reservoirs. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the diversity and composition of microbial communities and the possible predicted functions. Sediment samples were collected from three strata (superficial, intermediate, and deep) in three stations (SP1, SP2, and SP3) located in the southern region of the Plateau of São Paulo using the HOV Shinkai 6500 in 2013. The 16S rRNA gene was sequenced using primers universals (515F and 926R) by the Illumina Miseq platform. Taxonomic data showed that the SP1 station had the highest relative abundance of the class Nitrososphaeria in the superficial (17%) and deep (21%) strata. The samples from stations SP2 and SP3 showed very similar taxonomic compositions. The SP2 station showed a predominance of Gammaproteobacteria, representing 15%, 38%, and 30% in the superficial, intermediate, and deep strata, respectively. Station SP3 also showed the dominance of Gammaproteobacteria in the superficial and inferior strata (92% and 90%, respectively). With metabolic prediction, it was observed that chemoheterotrophy and fermentation were predicted in almost all samples. The core microbiome analysis comprised only two ASVs. Our study contributes to a better understanding of microbial communities in an economically important and ecologically little-explored region. This is the second microbiological survey in plateau sediments and the first focused on the southern region.
Epidemiological characteristics of sexually transmitted diseases in older people of mainland China: review of 15-year national surveillance data
Authors: Guo Yue , Zhou Hongchang , Dong Haiyan , Dong Ying , Lu Mingke
Published: December 2022

Background

The threat posed by sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), such as syphilis, gonorrhea, AIDS/HIV and HBV, to the elderly Chinese population remains unclear.

Methods

National surveillance data, including case numbers, numbers of deaths, incidence and mortality, on 4 STDs from 2004–2018 was collated. Subjects were divided into two groups of older (aged ≥ 60) and younger (aged＜60) participants. The older group subdivided into those aged 60+ (ages 60–69), 70+ (ages 70–79) and 80+ (≥ 80). Time periods, 2004–2008, 2009–2013 and 2014–2018 were examined. Comparison of epidemiological characteristics between older and younger groups, the 3 sub-divisions of the older groups and incidence trends of the 4 diseases among older participants were analyzed using the χ2 test.

Results

STDs incidence was significantly different between older and younger participants. Incidences of syphilis, AIDS/HIV and HBV among older were higher than younger subjects following the years 2006, 2010 and 2015, Besides, the incidences of syphilis, AIDS/HIV and HBV showed increasing trends in 2004–2018. Mortality from all 4 diseases was also higher among older than younger subject. Moreover, mortality from AIDS/HIV increased between 2004 and 2018. Analysis of the 3 sub-divisions of the older group showed that 60 + participants had the highest incidence of gonorrhea, AIDS/HIV and HBV; 70 + participants had the highest mortality from AIDS/HIV and the fastest growth rate of AIDS/HIV incidence and mortality.

Conclusion

Syphilis, gonorrhea, AIDS/HIV and HBV constituted a threat to the health of older people in China in the time period 2004–2018.
ENSO phase space dynamics with an improved estimate of the thermocline depth
Authors: Dommenget By Dietmar , Priya Priyamvada , Vijayeta Asha
Published: December 2022

The recharge oscillator model of the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) describes the ENSO dynamics as an interaction and oscillation between the eastern tropical Pacific sea surface temperatures (T) and subsurface heat content (thermocline depth; h), describing a cycle of ENSO phases. h is often approximated on the basis of the depth of the 20oC isotherm (Z20). In this study we will address how the estimation of h affects the representation of ENSO dynamics. We will compare the ENSO phase space with h estimated based on Z20 and based on the maximum gradient in the temperature profile (Zmxg). The results illustrate that the ENSO phase space is much closer to the idealised recharge oscillator model if based on Zmxg than if based on Z20. Using linear and non-linear recharge oscillator models fitted to the observed data illustrates that the Z20 estimate leads to artificial phase dependent structures in the ENSO phase space, which result from an in-phase correlation between h and T. Based on the Zmxg estimate the ENSO phase space diagram show very clear non-linear aspects in growth rates and phase speeds. Based on this estimate we can describe the ENSO cycle dynamics as a non-linear cycle that grows during the recharge and El Nino state, and decays during the La Nina states. The most extreme ENSO states are during the El Nino and discharge states, while the La Nina and recharge states do not have extreme states. It further has faster phase speeds after the El Nino state and slower phase speeds during and after the La Nina states. The analysis suggests that the ENSO phase speed is significantly positive in all phases, suggesting that ENSO is indeed a cycle. However, the phase speeds are closest to zero during and after the La Nina state, indicating that the ENSO cycle is most likely to stall in these states.
Electronic contacts and lubricity characters between monolayer WSe2 and Zr2C, Zr2CY2 (Y = F or OH)
Authors: Wang Qiaohui , Li Hong , Si Lina , Dou Zhaoliang , Yan Hongjuan , Yang Ye , Zhou Gang , Qing Tao , Zhang Shaohua , Liu Fengbin
Published: December 2022

The research on the interface contact characteristics is one of the hot topics for the van der Waals (vdW) heterostructure. We studied the electronic and frictional characters for the WSe2/Zr2C and WSe2/Zr2CY2 (Y = F or OH) vdW heterostructure by using DFT simulations. n-type Ohmic contacts are found for all the vdW heterostructures. The friction and shear strength of the WSe2/Zr2CY2 (Y = F or OH) vdW heterostructures are several tens lower than the WSe2/Zr2C vdW heterostructure. The extremely low friction value of the WSe2/Zr2C(OH)2 vdW heterostructure is only 0.00185~0.00975 nN/ atom. The weak interaction and smooth condition between interfaces are responsible for the small potential energy fluctuations and thus the low friction.
Heart rate and blood lactate level during short-bout small-sided game training have limited diagnostic value for internal training load among U18 male soccer players
Authors: Kryściak Jakub , Podgórski Tomasz , Chmura Paweł , Konefał Marek , Chmura Jan , Brazaitis Marius , Modric Toni , Andrzejewski Marcin
Published: December 2022

This study aimed to compare the effects of 1×1 small-sided games (SSGs) with different bout durations on external (ETL) and internal training loads (ITL) in youth soccer players. Twenty U18 players were divided into two groups performing six 1×1 SSGs with 30 and 45 s bout durations. ITL indices, including the percentage of maximum heart rate (HR), blood lactate (BLa) level, pH, bicarbonate (HCO3¯) level, and base excess (BE) level, were measured at rest, after each SSG bout, and 15 and 30 min after the entire exercise protocol. ETL (Global Positioning System metrics) was recorded during all six SSG bouts. The analysis showed that the 45 s SSGs had a greater volume but a lower training intensity than the 30 s SSGs. A significant time effect was observed in all ITL indices and a significant group effect in the HCO3¯ level only. Finally, the changes in the HR and HCO3¯ level were smaller in the 45 s SSGs than in the 30 s SSGs. In conclusion, the HR and BLa level during short-bout SSG training have limited diagnostic value for ITL. Extending ITL monitoring using other indicators, such as the HCO3¯ and BE levels, appears reasonable.
Immune changes induced by periampullary adenocarcinoma are reversed after tumor resection and modulate the postoperative survival
Authors: Landerer Anna , Himmelsbach Ruth , Biesel Esther A. , Fichtner-Feigl Stefan , Wittel Uwe A. , Chikhladze Sophia
Published: December 2022

Background
Tumor growth encompasses multiple immunologic processes leading to impaired immunity. Regarding cancer surgery, the perioperative period is characterized by an additional immunosuppression that may contribute to poor outcomes. In this exploratory study, we assessed plasma parameters, characterizing the perioperative immunity with a particular focus on their prognostic value.
Patients and methods
31 patients undergoing pancreatoduodenectomy were enrolled (adenocarcinoma of the pancreatic head and its periampullary region: n=24, benign pancreatic diseases n=7). Abundance and function of circulating immune cells and the plasma protein expression were
analyzed in blood samples taken pre- and postoperatively using flow cytometry, ELISA and Proximity Extension Assay.
Results
Prior to surgery, an increased population of Tregs, a lower frequency of intermediate monocytes, a decreased portion of activated T-cells and a reduced response of T-cells to stimulation in vitro were associated with cancer. On the first postoperative day, both groups showed similar dynamics. The preoperative alterations did not persist six weeks postoperatively. Moreover, several preoperative parameters correlated with the postoperative survival.
Conclusion
Our data suggest systemic immunologic changes in adenocarcinoma patients, which are reversible six weeks after tumor resection. Additionally, the preoperative immune status affects the postoperative survival. In summary, our results implicate prognostic and therapeutic potential, justifying further trials on the perioperative tumor immunity to maximize the benefit of surgical tumor therapy.
Ablation of neural progenitors by focal X-ray irradiation: effects on song production and perception in canaries
Authors: Chiver Ioana , Santos Ednei B. dos , Valle Shelley , Lallemand François , Cornil Charlotte A. , Ball Gregory F. , Balthazart Jacques
Published: December 2022

The song control nucleus HVC of songbirds has emerged as a widespread model system to study adult neurogenesis and the factors that modulate the incorporation of new neurons, including seasonal state, sex differences or sex steroid hormone concentrations. However, the specific function of these new neurons born in adulthood remains poorly understood. We implemented a new procedure based on focal X-ray irradiation to deplete neural progenitors in the ventricular zone adjacent to HVC and study the functional consequences. A 23 Gy dose depleted by more than 50 percent the incorporation of BrdU in neural progenitors, a depletion that was confirmed by a significant decrease in doublecortin positive neurons. This depletion of neurogenesis significantly increased the variability of testosterone-induced songs in females and decreased their bandwidth. Expression of the immediate early gene ZENK (a.k.a. egr-1) in secondary auditory areas of the telencephalon that respond to song was also inhibited. These data provide compelling evidence that new neurons in HVC play a role in both song production and perception and that X-ray focal irradiation represents an excellent tool to advance our understanding of adult neurogenesis.
Evaluation of Power System Reliability Incorporating Protection System Miscoordination
Authors: Sabzebin Saeed , Noghabi Abbas Saberi , Mazlumi Kazem
Published: December 2022

The operation of protection systems has a considerable impact on power system reliability. The main reason for cascading outages is protection system misoperation. Two leading causes of protection system misoperation are protection system failure and incorrect settings. The failure of any of its components of the protection system results in failure to operate or undesired tripping and incorrect settings of relays cause protection miscoordination. In this paper, an analysis of power system reliability regarding failure and incorrect settings of the protection system is paid. This paper proposes an eight-state Markov model for a transmission line and its protection system incorporating protection system miscoordination distingue from failure to operate and undesired trip. The situation of network lines in the period of simulation time has been determined by the sequential Monte Carlo method, and are calculated the reliability indices such as Loss of Load Probability (LOLP), Loss of Load Expectation (LOLE), Expected Energy Not Supplied (EENS), and Expected Frequency of Load Curtailment (EFLC). The proposed model is applied to a 6-bus IEEE RBTS network, and the reliability indices are calculated and compared from both perspectives to show the importance of the proposed model.
Extremal Functions on Generalized Weinstein Sobolev-gevrey spaces
Authors: Chaffar Mohamed Moktar , Mohamed Hassen Ben
Published: December 2022

Note: Please see pdf for full abstract with equations.
The Weinstein operator $\Delta_{W}^{\alpha,d}$, mostly referred to as theLaplace-Bessel differential operator is now known as an important operator inanalysis, because of its applications in pure and applied Mathematics,especially in Fluid Mechanics. In this paper, we consider the generalizedWeinstein operator $\Delta_{W}^{d,\alpha,n}$, we introduce and study theSobolev-Gevrey spaces associated with the generalized Weinstein operator andinvestigate their properties. Next, as application, we study the extremalfunctions on the spaces $\mathscr H_{a,\sigma}^{s,\alpha,n}(\mathbb{R}%_{+}^{d+1})$ using the theory of reproducing kernels.
Mathematics Subject Classification:42B10; 42B30; 42B35; 43A32 ; 44A35; 46F12; 46E35
A geospatial assessment of urban green space in Debre Markos City, Ethiopia
Authors: Anteneh Mihret Bizuye , Damte Desta Solomon , Abate Simeneh Gedefaw , Gedefaw Abebaw Andarge
Published: December 2022

Urban Green Space (UGS) serves as a lung y for city dwellers to breathe. Debre Markos City (DMC) lacks natural recreational areas such as lakes and artificial green spaces. A notable UGS study utilizing multiple contributing factors integrated with the application remote sensing and GIS has a significant advantage in making residents more comfortable. This study, therefore, aimed to assess the existing UGS, quantify it, and identify a suitable area for UGS development. Hence, ten UGS influencing factors were selected. Each criterion was analyzed with the use of its proper algorithm. Multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) analysis integrated with Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) method and RS and GIS were applied. The weighted sum overlay analysis method of spatial analysis was implemented based on the criteria weight of each factor. A 90.6% and 0.8855 accuracy assessment and kappa coefficient were recorded for land use/land cover classification, respectively. The value of consistency ratio was 0.043, which is < 1 and acceptable. Results revealed that 13.12%, 25.47%, 30.89%, 22.49%, and 8.2% of the total area coverage had very high, highly, moderately, poorly and unsuitable for UGS development activity at DMC, respectively. In this study, a resident can access UGS with less than 1km radius distance, closer to the national standard of Ethiopia (i.e. 500m). However, in the existing UGS, a person enforced to walk or travel more than 8.4km distance to get the service. In conclusion, remote sensing and GIS can make life easy to access UGS in the study area with minimum distance and cost, and a short period. It is recommended that policy makers, planners and executive bodies in Ethiopia (highly urbanizing country) should consider future urban demand of the dwellers with proper studies earlier to other urban infrastructures.