bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel sulfonated poly (vinyl alcohol)/Carboxy methyl Cellulose/ Acrylamide - based hybrid polyelectrolyte membranes
Authors: Mahmoud Atia , Fahmy Alaa , Naser Abdelrahman , Saied Mohamed Abu
Published: October 2022

Novel polyelectrolytic hybrid membranes are prepared by blending carboxy methyl cellulose (CMC)-polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)- acrylamide (AA). Succinic acid and chlorosulfonic acid (CSA) are employed as crosslinkers and modifiers, respectively. Additionally, carboxylated carbon nanotube (CCNT) and sulfonated activated carbon (SAC) as fillers are used to attain appropriate chemical and mechanical stability for use as polyelectrolyte membranes (PEM). CMC, PVA, and AA are mixed and treated with CSA, CCNT, and SAC in different concentrations. First, CMC/PVA/AA solution is modified using CSA to produce a sulfonated polymeric matrix. Second, a different amount of CCNT or SAC was added as a filler to enhance the ion exchange capacity (IEC), ionic conductivity, and stability. Third, the solution is cast as polyelectrolytic membranes. Chemical interactions between CMC, PVA, AA and other membrane components were confirmed using various characterization techniques such as Raman scattering spectroscopy and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR). Furthermore, mechanical strength, methanol uptake, gel fraction, ion exchange capacity (IEC), and proton conductivity were determined as functions of varied membrane modification components. Results reveals that the increasing of CSA, CCNT and SAC is leading to increase the IEC values reached 1.54 mmol/g for (CMC/PVA-4% CSA), 1.74 mmol/g for (CMC/PVA-4%CSA-2%CCNT) and 2.31 mmol/g for (CMC/PVA-4% CSA-2% SAC) comparing to 0.11 mmol/g for non-modified CMC/PVA/AA membrane. Sequentially, proton conductivity value is changed from 1×10− 3 S/cm in non-modified CMC/PVA/AA membrane to 0.082 S/cm for (CMC/PVA-4% CSA), 0.0984 S/cm for (CMC/PVA-4%CSA-2%CCNT) and 0.1050 S/cm for (CMC/PVA-4% CSA-2% SAC). Such results enhance the potential feasibility of modified CMC/PVA/AA hybrid as polyelectrolytic membranes.
Increasing Impacts of Summer Extreme Precipitation and Heatwaves in Eastern China
Authors: Yao Yulong , Zhang Wei , Kirtman Ben
Published: October 2022

Observational and modeling analysis suggests an increased frequency of heatwaves and extreme precipitation in an anthropogenically warmed climate. However, the accurate link between extreme precipitation events (EPEs) and heatwaves (HWs), and changes in these extremes and associated socio-economic impacts in eastern China have not been fully resolved. This study examines historical and future changes of summer EPEs and HWs in eastern China based on observations, reanalysis, and model outputs from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6. The results show that EPEs and HWs in eastern China have increased in the past four decades and are projected to rise in the future. The Yangtze River Basin and its southern regions will be confronted with the compound disaster of HWs and EPEs in the future projections. High values of the annual mean total person-times (estimated as population density multiplied by event frequency) affected by EPEs and HWs are observed in the North China Plain, Yangtze River Delta, Sichuan Basin, and southeast coast. The total person-times affected by EPEs show a slightly decreasing trend under both scenarios. However, the total person-times affected by HWs under Shared Socioeconomic Pathway (SSP) 245 scenario maximize at around 4.0 billion, lower than the peak person-times (about 5.0 billion) under SSP585 scenario. We further investigate the linkage of such extreme events with sea surface temperature and western North Pacific subtropical high anomalies. The correlations between the mean-state and extreme precipitation and maximum temperature anomalies both shifted from negative in the historical period to positive under future projections.
Graphs for analyzing and handling the complexity of software programs used in Safety Critical Systems
Authors: Singh Pooja , Singh Lalit
Published: October 2022

In recent years, software programs are widely used in many safety-critical systems. These systems do have high reliability targets and hence it is necessary to analyze these programs. Also, the complexity of such programs must be very low, which can be ensured by analyzing the dynamic coupling between the functions. We propose call graph construction of a program for such analysis. It also proposes method to partition program graphs for reducing the complexity of the system, which also helps to bring out the system composition. The robustness of the method is shown from an implementation of the algorithm.
Using Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices (KAP) in Assessing the Impact of Nutrition Education on Associated Nutrition and Health Outcomes in Northern Ghana
Authors: Sienso Gifty , Lyford Conrad , Oldewage-Theron Wilna
Published: October 2022

Background: Health extension and nutrition education encourage healthy lifestyles for improved nutrition and health outcomes and overall productivity and economic development. However, there is a limited assessment of the impact of nutrition education on associated health and nutrition knowledge, attitudes and practices in Ghana. This study evaluated the impact of access to nutrition information on household knowledge, attitudes and practices on nutrition and health outcomes in Northern region of Ghana
Method: This study used primary data from a cross-sectional survey from 504 households in Northern region of Ghana. To establish the association between access to nutrition information and maternal KAP, descriptive statistics, Pearson’s chi square tests and Fisher’s exact test were used.
Results: The results showed that 53.6% of women had a KAP score above the mean score on knowledge on nutrition related issues. Furthermore, 75.8% of women had good attitude regarding nutrition related issues whilst 96.8% had good practices towards nutrition issues. Women’s knowledge on the first food to give to a baby, length of exclusive breastfeeding, causes of undernutrition and prevention of undernutrition were also significantly and positively associated with access to nutrition information. Also, the results on attitude showed that women had a good attitude towards hand washing, the use of safe water for household purposes, and the effects of weight loss and undernutrition in children. Lastly, the results showed that women had good practices towards using water from protected sources.
Conclusion: Access to nutrition information improved maternal knowledge on Women’s knowledge on the first food to give to a baby, length of exclusive breastfeeding, causes of undernutrition and prevention of undernutrition, this suggests that less emphasis may be required in terms of nutrition education interventions on these areas. On the other hand, low levels of knowledge was observed for signs of undernutrition, and causes of undernutrition in both women and children, and prevention of undernutrition amongst 6-23 month’s children suggesting that more emphasis may be required in terms of nutrition intervention designs to address these problems. It is recommended that this surveillance of performance be conducted regularly to refocus and target efforts to needed areas.
Machine Learning to Assess the Prognostic Utility of Radiomic Features for In-hospital COVID-19 Mortality
Authors: Sun Yuming , Salerno Stephen , He Xinwei , Pan Ziyang , Yang Eileen , Sujimongkol Chinakorn , Song Jiyeon , Wang Xinan , Han Peisong , Kang Jian , Sjoding Michael W , Jolly Shruti , Christiani David C , Li Yi
Published: October 2022

As portable chest X-rays are an efficient means of triaging emergent cases, their increased use has raised the question as to whether imaging carries additional prognostic utility for survival among patients with COVID-19. This study assessed the importance of known risk factors on in-hospital mortality and to investigate the predictive utility of radiomic texture features using various machine learning approaches. We detected incremental improvements in survival prognostication utilizing texture features derived from emergent chest X-rays, particularly among older patients or those with higher comorbidity burden. Important features included age, oxygen saturation, blood pressure, and certain comorbid conditions, as well as image features related to the intensity and variability of the pixel distribution. Thus, widely available chest X-rays, in conjunction with clinical information, may be predictive of survival outcomes of patients with COVID-19, especially older, sicker patients, and can aid in disease management by providing additional information.
Discovery and comparative genomic analysis of a novel equine Anellovirus species, representing the first complete Mutorquevirus genome
Authors: Fisher Mathew , Nebroski Michelle , Davies Jennifer , Janzen Eugene , Sullivan Daniel , Lung Oliver
Published: October 2022

The complete genome of a novel torque teno virus species (Torque teno equus virus 2 (TTEqV2) isolate Alberta/2018) was obtained by high throughput sequencing (HTS) of nucleic acid extracted from the lung and liver tissue of a Quarter Horse gelding that died of nonsuppurative encephalitis in Alberta, Canada. The 2,805 nucleotide circular genome is the first complete genome from the Mutorquevirus genus and has been approved as a new species by the International Committee on the Taxonomy of Viruses. The genome contains several characteristic features of torque teno virus (TTV) genomes, including an ORF1 encoding a putative 631 aa capsid protein with an arginine-rich N-terminus, several rolling circle replication associated amino acid motifs, and a downstream polyadenylation signal. A smaller overlapping ORF2 that encodes a protein with an amino acid motif (WX7HX3CXCX5H) which, in general, is highly conserved in TTVs and anelloviruses. The UTR contains two GC-rich tracts, two highly conserved 15 nucleotide sequences, and what appears to be an atypical TATA-box sequence also observed in two other TTV genera. Codon usage analysis of TTEqV2 and 11 other selected anelloviruses from five host species revealed a bias toward adenine ending (A3) codons in the anelloviruses, while in contrast, A3 codons were observed at a low frequency in horse and the four other associated host species examined. Phylogenetic analysis of TTV ORF1 sequences available to date shows TTEqV2 clusters with the only other currently reported member of the Mutorquevirus genus, Torque teno equus virus 1 (TTEqV1, KR902501). Genome-wide pairwise alignment of TTEqV2 and TTEqV1 shows the absence of several highly conserved TTV features within the UTR of TTEqV1, suggesting it is incomplete and TTEqV2 is the first complete genome within the genus Mutorquevirus.
A Multidisciplinary Opioid-Reduction Pathway for Robotic Prostatectomy: Outcomes at Year One
Authors: Manning Michael W. , Whittle John , Fuller Matthew , Cooper Sara H. , Manning Erin L , Chapman Joe , Moul Judd W , Miller Timothy E
Published: October 2022

Background: Opioid use has come under increasing scrutiny, driven in part by the opioid crisis and growing concerns that up to 6% of opioid-naïve patients may become chronic opioid users. This has resulted in a revaluation of perioperative practice. For this reason, we implemented a multidisciplinary pathway to reduce perioperative opioid usage through education and standardization of practice.
Methods: A single centre retrospective evaluation was performed after one year, comparing the outcomes to those of the two years prior to pathway implementation. Comparisons were made between pre- vs. post pathway change by 2:1 propensity matching between cohorts. Univariate linear regression models were created using demographic variables with those that were p<0.15 included in the final model and using post-operative opioid use (in oral morphine equivalents, OME) as the primary outcome.
Results: We found that intraoperative opioid use was significantly decreased 38.2mg(28.3) vs. 18.0mg(40.4) oral morphine equivalents (OME), p<.001, as was post-operative opioid use for the duration of the hospitalization, 46.3mg(49.5) vs. 35.49mg(43.7) OME, p=0.002. In subgroup analysis of those that received some intraoperative opioids (n= 152) and those that received no opioids (n=34), we found that both groups required fewer opioids in the post-operative period 47.0mg(47.7) vs. 32.4mg(40.6) OME; p=0.001; +intraoperative opioids ; 62.4mg(62.9) vs. 35.8mg(27.7) OME; p=0.13; -intraoperative opioids. Time to discharge from the PACU was reduced in both groups 215min(199) vs. 167min(122); p<0.003; +intraoperative opioids and 253min(270) vs. 167min(105); p=0.028; -intraoperative opioids. The duration of time until meeting discharge criteria from PACU was 221min(205) vs. 170min(120); p=0.001. Hospital length of stay (LOS) was significantly reduced 1.4 days(1.3) vs. 1.2 days(0.8); p=0.005. Both sub-groups demonstrated reduced hospital LOS 1.5 days(1.4) vs. 1.2 days(0.8); p=0.0047; +intraoperative opioids and 1.7 days(1.6) vs. 1.3 days(0.9); p=0.0583; -intraoperative opioids. Average pain scores during PACU admission and Post-PACU until discharge, were not statistically different between cohorts.
Conclusions: These findings underscore the effectiveness of a multidisciplinary approach to reduce opioids. Furthermore, it demonstrates improved patient outcomes as measured by both shorter PACU and hospital length of stay, in addition to almost 50% reduction in perioperative opioid use.
Picrate salts with bipyridine derivatives: Intra and intermolecular aspects
Authors: Moura Ana L. S. , Machado Pedro H. , Corrêa Rodrigo S.
Published: October 2022

Here, we present the preparation and characterization of two novel picrate salts. Compound 1 (DPK-PA) crystallizes in the triclinic system and centrosymmetric space group P\(\stackrel{-}{1}\), with unit cell parameters a = 9.378(17) Å, b = 9.790(15) Å, c = 10.141(16) Å, α = 99.63(7)°, β = 99.09(8)° and γ = 102.55(8)°, while the compound 2 (BBBPY-PA) crystallizes in the non-centrosymmetric P212121 space group, orthorhombic unit cell parameters a = 6.3902(6) Å, b = 23.416(3) Å and c = 16.7320(18) Å. Both crystal structures present an ion-pair in the asymmetric unit, one picrate anion, and one bipyridine derivative. In the compound 1 structure, the molecule of DPK presents one intramolecular N1-H…N Hbond that contributes to stabilizing the planar conformation of DPK. The absence of intramolecular Hbonding in compound 2 can be explained by the steric hindrance of the tert-butyl group. For 1 and 2, the crystal packing is stabilized N-H…O strong hydrogen bonding interactions, which could be identified by the Hirshfield Surface analysis and fingerprint plots. The compounds were also studied by UV-Vis and infrared analyses, which may support the statement of the formation of new material. Finally, as an attempt to obtain a molecular system to act as a chemical sensor, we studied the fluorescence of both compounds, in solution and in solid state, however, no fluorescence was observed.
Eeg Microstate Analysis in Patients With Disorders of Consciousness and Its Clinical Relevance
Authors: Toplutaş Eren , Aydın Fatma , Hanoğlu Lütfü
Published: October 2022

Disorders of Consciousness are divided into categories such as vegetative and minimally conscious states. Objective measures that allow correct identification of vegetative and minimally conscious state patients are required. EEG Microstate analysis is a promising approach that we believe has the potential to be effective in examining the resting state activities of the brain in different stages of consciousness by allowing the proper identification of vegetative and minimally conscious patients. As a result, we try to identify clinical evaluation scales and microstate characteristics with resting state EEGs from individuals with Disorders of Consciousness. Our prospective observational study included thirty individuals with a Disorder of Consciousness. As the control group, we included EEG data from 18 healthy individuals. We made clinical evaluations using patient behavior scales. We also analyzed the EEG data quantitatively and compared statistically using microstate analysis. In our study, microstate D coverage and occurrence differed substantially between vegetative and minimally conscious state patients. We performed microstate analysis on resting-state EEGs of patients with Disorders of Consciousness. There was a strong connection between microstate D characteristics and clinical scale scores. We also found significant relationships between microstate transition probabilities and clinical scale scores. We have shown that microstate D is the most potent parameter representing consciousness. Microstate analysis appears to be a strong option for future use in the diagnosis, follow-up, and treatment response of patients with Disorders of Consciousness.
Telemedicine in Healthcare Delivery: Knowledge, Attitude, and Skill Set of Medical Students in Selected Universities in Africa
Authors: Babatunde Abdulhammed Opeyemi , Paul Innocent Kitandu , Olawuyi Dimeji Abdulsobur , Brimmo Farida Oluwabukola , Adetoye Ezekiel Adedapo , Omotiti Abass , Udohchukwu Okereke Promise , Arama Umulkhairah Onyioiza , Uchenna Emmanuel Oranwusi , Ahmed Aisha Asila , Alawad Ragda , Dinga Bobga , Agboola Progress , Rabiu Aisha Temitope , Ogah Okechukwu
Published: October 2022

Background :Telemedicine is a rapidly expanding technology used in healthcare settings, especially since the emergence of COVID-19. For this intervention to be implemented successfully, important skills are required from health professionals. Hence, this study seeks to determine the preparedness of African medical students for the use of telemedicine in healthcare delivery by assessing their knowledge, attitude, and skill set ,
Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study. Data were collected online through a 33-item pre-tested, self-administered questionnaire from three selected medical schools in Africa. Data were analysed using descriptive and analytical statistics with a significant level of 0.05. Data analysis was done on SPSS version 20,
Results : Only 559 respondents were eligible for the study. 338 (60.5%) were male and the most prevalent age range was 21-23 years (276, 49.4%). 346 (61.9%) had good knowledge while 461 (82.5%) expressed a good attitude toward telemedicine. Only 144 (25.8%) had a good skill set in using telemedicine. 513 (91.6%) respondents agreed and strongly agreed that the use of telemedicine should be included in medical training. There was a statistically significant association between the skill set of respondents and schools (p=0.001) and gender (p<0.001),
Conclusions: The respondents have a good attitude but average knowledge and poor skill set of telemedicine usage in healthcare delivery. However, the majority are interested in learning about telemedicine in medical training. This study shows the need to incorporate telemedicine within the curricula of African medical schools.
Systematic Analysis of GT1 Family Genes and Their Regulation in Anthocyanin Metabolism in Red Maple
Authors: Xu Hao , Zhu Qing , Lu Xiaoyu
Published: October 2022

Glycosyltransferases (GTs) have a crucial role in the glycosylation of secondary metabolites, detoxification of endogenous or exogenous substances, body defense, and hormone regulation in plants. The GT1 family has the largest number of characterized enzymes in 111 GT families that are known for their excellent glycosylation capacities toward numerous valued small molecules. The colorful foliage of red maple is a vital agronomic trait, and studies have confirmed that massive anthocyanin accumulation led to the redness of leaves. In red maple, glycosylation is the essential step of anthocyanin biosynthesis and the prerequisite of further modifications, which usually enhances stability. Here, a genome-wide characterization analysis of the GT1 family in red maple was performed. A total of 560 GT genes were identified in the red maple genome; among them, 122 members belonged to the GT1 family. All these members were unevenly distributed across 19 chromosomes, with most located in the chloroplast. These GT1 genes had 1–16 exons. Most 122 GT1 proteins in red maple contained GT-GTB-type domain and GT1-Gtf-like domain. In total, 18 GT1 proteins might have played pivotal evolutionary roles in red maple. The network analysis revealed that the regulatory effect of GT1 family genes on anthocyanin in red maple leaves could be divided into direct and indirect regulation. The study results not only clarified the roles of the GT1 family in red maple but also laid a cornerstone for further functional analysis of this gene family in Acer plants.
Novel ionic liquid 4,4ʹ-trimethylenedipiperidine phosphate catalysed greener and efficient synthesis of dihydro pyrano [2,3-c] pyrazole
Authors: Tanpure Sagar , Mulik Abhijeet , Rajmane Mohan , Lawande Shamrao
Published: October 2022

A novel robust acidic ionic liquid 4,4ʹ-trimethylenedipiperidine phosphate was synthesised from 4, 4ʹ-trimethylenedipiperidine and phosphoric acid. The prepared catalyst was characterized by FTIR, 1H-NMR, 13C NMR and Mass Spectroscopy. The synthesized novel catalyst was found to be competent for synthesis of pyranopyrazole derivatives through one-pot multicomponent condensation of diverse aryl aldehyde with malononitrile, ethyl acetoacetate, and hydrazine hydrate in presence of a catalytic amount of dihydrogen 4,4ʹ-trimethylenedipiperidine phosphate [H2-TMDP][HPO4] as an efficient and inexpensive catalyst at room temperature. Merit of this meticulously designed protocol are the use of novel ionic liquid, easy work-up process, good to excellent yields, short reaction time, and purification without column chromatography.
HIV-1 infection results in upregulation of Sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 1 in the human thymus
Authors: Resop Rachel S. , Salvatore Bradley , Kim Shawn J. , Gordon Brent , Blom Bianca , Vatakis Dimitrios N. , Uittenbogaart Christel H.
Published: October 2022

Regeneration of functional naïve T lymphocytes following the onset of infection remains a crucial issue for HIV + individuals, even while adhering to Antiretroviral Therapy (ART). Thus far, reports on the impact of HIV-1 infection on the entry of thymic precursors and the egress of functional naïve T lymphocytes are limited. Therefore, we examined the impact of HIV-1 on Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) signaling, which governs the egress of functional naïve thymocytes from the thymus to the periphery. Using in vitro experiments with primary human thymocytes and in vivo and ex vivo studies with humanized mice, we demonstrate that HIV-1 infection upregulates the expression of S1P receptor 1 (S1PR1) in the human thymus. Intriguingly, this upregulation occurs both during intrathymic infection (direct infection of the human thymic implant) as well as systemic infection in humanized mice. Moreover, the increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines in infected thymi and the upregulation of S1PR1 in response to in vitro exposure to Interferon-Beta (IFN-β) and Tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha (TNF-α) indicate that the cytokine dysregulation following HIV infection may contribute to upregulation of S1PR1. Finally, an increased presence of CD3hiCD69- (fully mature) as well as CD3hiCD69+ (less mature) T cells in the spleen during HIV infection in humanized mice, as well as an earlier expression during thymocyte development, indicate that the upregulation of this receptor translates to increased and accelerated egress from the thymus. The egress of thymocytes that are not functionally mature from the thymus to peripheral blood and lymphoid organs may have implications for the immune function of people living with HIV (PLWH).
Exact solution for time sequence optimization of road reconstruction projects considering network capacity limitation
Authors: Chen Qun , Ye Shi , Wang Yan
Published: October 2022

The problem is often encountered in road network reconstruction: there are multiple road sections (each road section is defined as a project or work zone) that need to be reconstructed in a period and how to arrange the time sequence of these projects to minimize the total construction duration under the premise of meeting the capacity constraints of the road network. This paper proposes an exact solution algorithm based on the branch-and-bound approach to solve the problem. The methods for estimating the upper and lower bounds of the duration of the project combination represented by each node are proposed, and the pruning rules and search principles are defined. The optimality of the solution obtained by the proposed algorithm is proved. Finally, an example is presented to demonstrate the search process and the effectiveness of the algorithm.
Study on proportion-making and stability of surrounding rock model test of water-inrush roadway
Authors: Li Jiwei , Li Jianguang , Li Qingkun , Cheng Zhongyue , Zhou Ziyi
Published: October 2022

Groundwater is one of the key problems that must be faced and solved in underground engineering. Under special conditions, large-scale water damage accidents will be formed. Therefore, it is of great engineering significance to study the stability of surrounding rock of water-inrush roadway. This study focuses on laboratory experiments to study the preparation of similar materials, establish multiple linear regression equations of the ratio and physical parameters, analyze the influence law of roadway depth of roadway, water inrush height and water inrush time on the stability of surrounding rock of water-inrush roadway, and verify and expand it with numerical simulation. The experimental results show that the sensitivity of each factor to roadway stability is as follows: water inrush height > water inrush time > depth of roadway; In the test within 24 hours after water inrush, the sensitivity of each factor to roadway stability is also the height of water inrush > the time of water inrush > the depth of burial. This conclusion can provide an important basis for the rescue work after roadway water inrush and enrich the relevant test simulation after roadway water inrush.
General inertial proximal stochastic variance reductiongradient for nonconvex nonsmooth optimization
Authors: Sun shuya , He lulu
Published: October 2022

In this paper, motivated by the competitive performance of proximal stochasticvariance reduction gradient (Prox-SVRG) method, a novel general inertial Prox-SVRG (GIProx-SVRG) algorithm is proposed for solving a class of nonconvexfinite sum problem. More precisely, the Nesterov’s momentum trick based ex-trapolation accelerated step is incorporated into the framework of Prox-SVRG.In contrast to Prox-SVRG, GIProx-SVRG possesses more general accelerate ex-pression and thus can potentially achieves accelerated convergence. Moreover,based on the supermartling convergence theory and the error bound condition,we establish a linear convergence rate for the iterate sequence generated byGIProx-SVRG algorithm. We observe that there is no theory exists in whichthe general extrapolation technique is combined in Prox-SVRG, whereas weestablish such a theory in this paper. Experimental results demonstrate thesuperiority of our method over the-state-of-the-art methods.
A novel ZnS-CdS nanocomposite as a visible active photocatalyst for degradation of synthetic and real wastewaters
Authors: Khodamorady Minoo , Bahrami Kiumars
Published: October 2022

In this study, new magnetic nanocomposites with shell core structure with different molar ratios of ZnS-CdS were synthesized and their photocatalytic activity in dye removal from synthetic and real effluents in the presence of mercury high pressure lamp as a visible light source was investigated. Optimal photocatalyst with molar ratio of ZnS-CdS 0.25:0.75 showed the best performance in dye removal. Based on the particle distribution histogram of Fe3O4@BNPs@ZnS-CdS (ZnS/CdS: 0.25:0.75), particles with 60 to 100 nm have the highest abundance. According to the DRS results, hybridization of zinc sulfide with cadmium sulfide reduced the gap and as a result, light absorption was successfully extended to the visible area. The PL results confirm that the optimal photocatalyst (Fe3O4@BNPs@ZnS-CdS) has the lowest electron-hole recombination compared to Fe3O4@BNPs@ZnS and Fe3O4@BNPs@CdS. It should be noted that according to the DLS results, the charge on the optical photocomposite surface is negative at all acidic, alkaline and neutral pHs. One of the significant advantages in this study is the use of high-pressure mercury lamps as a light source, so that these lamps are very economical in terms of economy and also have a long life and excellent efficiency. The optimal photocatalyst not only showed excellent photocatalytic activity for the removal of methylene blue (96.6%) and methyl orange (70.9%) but also for the dye removal of textile effluents (Benton 98.5% and dark olive 100%). Introduced magnetic heterostructures are suitable options for dye removal from textile and spinning wastewaters.
Tailoring the hollow structure within CoSn(OH)6 nanocubes for advanced supercapacitors
Authors: Yang Zhiyong , Li Chunxia , Liu Fangfang , Lv Xiaowei , Zhang Lei , Wang Hui
Published: October 2022

Hollow structure is benefited for various application of the materials owing to it makes the materials the large surface area with more active sites. In this work, hollow structure was engineered into dense CoSn(OH)6 nanocube precursors by alkaline etching, resulting in both increased surface area and mesopores with large size. Hollow CoSn(OH)6 nanocubes as the active component of the cathode electrode exhibited a highly electrochemical capacitance of 1.136 mAh cm-2 at 2 mA cm-2 , larger than that of corresponding dense precursor. Meanwhile, good rate capability for hollow CoSn(OH)6 nanocubes was achieved by increasing 4-fold current density. Considering its facile fabrication and highly electrochemical performance, the obtained CoSn(OH)6 nanocubes are a promising material for use in energy storage.
Pendap as a Bengkulu Culinary Treasure
Authors: Iktarastiwi Nasfati , Marwanti M.Pd. Prof. Dr.
Published: October 2022

Pendap is currently the tourism potential of the Bengkulu area. However, the local wisdom of Pendap is still rarely studied. This study aims to determine Pendap as a culinary treasure typical of Bengkulu. This study uses a qualitative research design with the research subjects of Pendap producers and Bengkulu typical restaurant owners, data collection using observation, interviews, and documentation techniques. Data analysis used an interactive analysis model of data collection, reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The results of Pendap research have been around for a long time and are passed down from generation to generation and are often presented at community events. The treasure of Pendap can also be seen from the 8-hour cooking process, and has become a part of Bengkulu culinary. Pendap is successfully traded as a Bengkulu typical side dish because it lasts for 2 days without preservatives and for 2 weeks if packaged using a vacuum. Hopefully the results of this research can increase the understanding of people who are involved in the Bengkulu traditional culinary world to pay more attention and know about local wisdom, because few studies discuss related topics.
Keywords: Pendap, Local Cuisine, Bengkulu, Indonesia
Combined analysis of cytokines and neurofilaments improves differentiation and prognostication in ALS
Authors: Behzadi Arvin , Olesen Mads Nikolaj , Forsberg Karin , Pujol-Calderón Fani , Tjust Anton E. , Wuolikainen Anna , Madsen Jonna Skov , Brandslund Ivan , Blennow Kaj , Zetterberg Henrik , Asgari Nasrin , Andersen Peter Munch
Published: October 2022

Background
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a heterogeneous neurodegenerative syndrome hallmarked by adult-onset degeneration of upper and lower motor neurons and their associated tracts. ALS may be difficult to differentiate from some other neurological disorders termed ALS mimics and to estimate prognosis.
Methods
We retrospectively measured the concentrations of neurofilaments (NFs) and cytokines in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plasma in ALS patients (n = 234) and ALS mimics (n = 44), to assess their association to diagnosis and prognosis in ALS. Two in-house developed enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays were used to measure NF light chain (NFL) and phosphorylated NF heavy chain (pNFH) in CSF. Single-molecule array was used to measure NFL in plasma and cytokines in CSF and plasma.
Results
Significantly higher concentrations of CSF tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and lower concentrations of plasma interleukin (IL)-1β were found in bulbar-onset ALS compared with ALS mimics. Plasma IL-6, plasma IL-17A and plasma TNF-α concentrations in ALS patients were significantly negatively correlated with the ALS functional rating scale revised and significantly positively correlated with King’s ALS clinical staging. Furthermore, plasma IL-6 and plasma TNF-α concentrations were significantly negatively correlated with the disease duration and significantly positively correlated with the disease progression rate in ALS patients. In both CSF and plasma in ALS patients, TNF-α was significantly positively correlated with NFL. ALS patients having plasma NFL or plasma IL-6 concentrations equal to or higher than the upper quartile (≥ Q3) showed a shorter disease duration compared with ALS patients having plasma NFL or plasma IL-6 equal to or lower than the median (≤ Q2).
Conclusions
Combined analysis of inflammatory and neurodegenerative biomarkers may be useful in differentiation between ALS and ALS-mimics. Such analysis may also provide useful prognostic information and facilitate stratification of less heterogeneous groups in clinical drug trials.
Disseminating the IKT Guiding Principles: What did we do? Where did we go? What do we do and where do we go next?
Authors: Shwed Alanna , Hoekstra Femke , Bhati DivyaKanwar , Athanasopoulos Peter , Chernesky John , Ginis Kathleen Martin , McBride Christopher , Mortenson W.Ben , Sibley Kathryn , Sweet Shane , Panel SCI Guiding Principles Consensus , Gainforth Heather
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Knowledge mobilization, specifically dissemination, and research partnerships are helpful for ensuring research is translated to practice. However, empirical data reporting on the processes and outcomes of a partnership approach to dissemination are limited. Sharing and promoting the Integrated Knowledge Translation (IKT) Guiding Principles for conducting and disseminating spinal cord injury research in partnership provide an ideal opportunity to demonstrate the processes and outcomes of a partnership approach to dissemination.

Methods

The dissemination process of the IKT Guiding Principles included four iterative phases: 1) planning dissemination, 2) conducting dissemination; 3) evaluating dissemination, and 4) reflecting on dissemination. Dissemination activities and outcomes were tracked using 5 sources: a partnership tracking survey, a partnership curriculum vitae, Google Analytics, team emails, and a citation-forward search. Important outcomes tracked were exposure, engagement, and citations. Exposure and engagement to the IKT Guiding Principles were defined as the number of times and/or locations the IKT Guiding Principles were accessed and/or downloaded.

Results

The IKT Guiding Principles Partnership planned dissemination of the guiding principles from the beginning of the project. Dissemination activities formally commenced with a variety of approaches including direct emails, social media posts, a webinar, academic and community presentations, journal publications. Within the first 20 months of publication, the guiding principles were viewed 3058 times, accessed in 31 different countries (exposure), downloaded 282 times (engagement), and cited 30 times.

Conclusion

This project provides an overview of metrics and methodology that can be used to monitor and evaluate the processes and outcomes of an IKT approach to dissemination. Overall, a co-production approach may be helpful for disseminating research findings; however, more research is needed to understand the impact of an IKT approach on the dissemination and implementation of research findings.
Design and Applications of Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticle loaded Copper as a Colorimetric Sensor for glutathione detection
Authors: aghayan morvarid , mahmoudi ali , sazegar Mohammadreza , Jahanafarin Alireza , Nazari Omid , Hamidi Parisa , Poorhasan Zeynab , Shafaei Batul Sadat
Published: October 2022

In recent years, the development of nanomaterials-based peroxidase mimics as enzyme sensors have been attracting considerable interest due to their outstanding features, including potent stability and cost-effectiveness toward natural enzymes. In this work, mesoporous silica nanoparticles-functionalized by copper (Cu-MSN) was prepared as a new artificial enzyme for the first time through the sol-gel procedure. A comprehensive investigation of the catalytic activity of Cu-MSN was done through the oxidation of chromogenic peroxidase substrates,3,3′,5,5′- tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) and (2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS), in the presence of H2O2. The results indicate that the peroxidase-like activity of the as-prepared sample is significantly higher than other nanoparticles. Additionally, for the study, a facile and rapid sensing method based on the enzyme-like activity of Cu-MSN to detect H2O2and glutathione (GSH) was developed to examine the potency of the proposed biosensor. Preliminary analysis revealed that the limit of detection (LOD) of H2O2and GSH is 0.2 and 0.0126 μM, in the range of 0.9-100 and 0.042-1 μM, respectively. These findings support the claims for the efficiency of the sensor in detection fields. Also, human serum was utilized as the real sample to obtain additional evidence.
WITHDRAWN: Association between the reduced expression of RECK and neutrophilic inflammation in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Fang Xuejie , Li Shuangbao , Liu Hong , Han Wei , Li Yongchun , Yu Xinjuan , Li Qinghai
Published: October 2022

Objective
Reversion-inducing cysteine-rich protein with Kazal motifs (RECK), a new inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP), plays a vital role in tumor invasion. Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are at higher risk of developing lung cancer, however, the role of RECK on COPD has not been studied. This study explored the expression of RECK in COPD patients and its effect on neutrophil function to provide a new scientific basis for the prevention and treatment of COPD.
Method
Fifty patients with acute exacerbation of COPD and fifty healthy controls were enrolled in the study. RECK was detected in lung tissue, sputum and plasma of subjects as well as in BEAS-2B cells stimulated with cigarette smoke extract (CSE) by immunohistochemistry, ELISA and qRT-PCR. Meanwhile, lung function (FEV1%pred) and inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and IL-8) were examined, and correlation analysis was performed with RECK expression. The effect of RECK on proliferation, apoptosis, migration and inflammatory cytokines and its potential mechanism were further quantified by neutrophil stimulated with recombinant human RECK protein (rhRECK) combined with CSE using CCK8, flow cytometry, Transwell assay, qRT-PCR, ELISA and Western blot.
Results
RECK was mainly expressed on airway epithelial cells in normal lung tissue and was significantly diminished in COPD patients. The levels of RECK in sputum and plasma were also significantly decreased in COPD patients. Pearson correlation analysis showed that RECK level in plasma was positively correlated with FEV1%pred (r = 0.458, P < 0.001) and negatively correlated with IL-6 and IL-8 (r=-0.386, -0.437; P = 0.006, 0.002) in COPD patients. The expression of RECK was decreased in BEAS-2B stimulated with CSE. The migration, inflammation, and MMP-9 expression of neutrophils were promoted by CSE, while inhibited by rhRECK.
Conclusions
RECK is low expressed in COPD patients and negatively correlated with inflammation. It may inhibit the inflammation and migration of neutrophils by downregulating MMP-9.
Detection and location of HBV in hepatitis B surface antigen seropositive donors’ corneas
Authors: Li Gaoyang , Liu Hanhan , Hu Shuyu , Lei Xiang , Tan Jia , Deng Zhihong
Published: October 2022

Introduction To investigate the presence and distribution of hepatitis B virus (HBV) in the corneas of hepatitis B virus surface antigen (HBsAg) seropositive donors in different preservation media and times.
Materials and Methods Eight corneas were acquired from seven HBsAg seropositive donors. Four corneas were preserved in storage media for less than two weeks (group A), two corneas were put in glycerin for a month (group B), and two corneas were put in glycerin for a year (group C). Two corneas were acquired from two HBsAg seronegative donors and set as a control group. One was put into bottles with storage media for a week. Another was kept in glycerin for a year.
Results Immunofluorescent staining was used to identify and localize HBsAg. With immunofluorescence staining, HBV surface antigens were observed in the epithelium and/or endothelium layer in three out of eight corneas of HBsAg seropositive donors.
Conclusion The results show that HBsAg can be detected in the epithelium and/orendothelium layer of the cornea in HBsAg seropositive donors, regardless of preservation media or duration.
Mathematical modeling on a novel manufacturing method for roller-gear cams using a whirl-machining process
Authors: Andrianto Moeso , Wu Yu-Ren , Arifin Achmad
Published: October 2022

The whirl-machining process is a precise, efficient, and promising machine process for manufacturing workpieces over the milling process. At the same time, the roller-gear cam has advantages over the other cam-follower system. However, the whirl-machining process has not been applied to manufacture the roller-gear cam. Therefore, this paper proposes a novel method for roller-gear cam manufacturing using a whirl-machining process. Mathematical modeling is described for generating the roller-gear cam, roller, and whirl-milling tool surface. A novel CNC machine and its coordinate system are proposed. Cutting simulations for obtaining the surface topologies and normal deviations are conducted. Globoidal cam with different cylindrical rollers, globoidal cam with a conical roller, and cylindrical cam with a conical roller are taken as case studies, and results are discussed. A virtual cutting simulation was conducted using VERICUT. Some machining examples are shown to verify the benefits of the proposed method in roller-gear cam manufacturing.
Comparison of testosterone and cortisol response to violent images, and mental health, between urban and suburban citizens in a middle-income country
Authors: Cerda-Molina Ana Lilia , Mayagoitia-Novales Lilian , Mendoza-Mojica Sheila Adriana , Borráz-León Javier I. , Hernández-Melesio Alejandra M.P. , Saldívar-Hernández Gabriela Josefina
Published: October 2022

Purpose: To evaluate alterations in cortisol and testosterone response after the exposure to images with traumatic or violent content, as well as their association with mental health indicators, by comparing an urban and a suburban population in a middle-income country.
Methods: We quantified cortisol and testosterone response in a sample of 122 voluntaries from the State of Mexico, and from Mexico City, using saliva samples collected at 0, 15, 30, and 60 min after the exposure of images with violent content. Participants answered a general information questionnaire and the Symptom Checklist-90-R to assess their mental health status. Generalized Estimating Equation Models were built to analyze cortisol and testosterone levels and MANOVAs were performed to test differences in participants’ mental health between cities.
Results: We found higher basal cortisol levels and a flat cortisol response in the suburban population compared to the urban one, who had lower basal levels and a peak 15 minutes after the images exposure. Testosterone levels in men decreased at 30 min, but basal levels were higher in urban men. Testosterone levels decreased 30 min after images exposure only in suburban women. Participants living in suburban areas had higher scores of somatization, obsessive-compulsive and interpersonal sensitivity, as well as more sleep disorders than participants living in urban areas.
Conclusion: This study offers novel evidence about differences in cortisol and testosterone responses to a socially evaluative stressor and in mental health indicators between urban and suburban citizens, highlighting the impact of urbanization process on physiological and psychological outcomes.
Flushing of the Follicules in Ovum Pick-Up Procedures Gives a Better Chance for Pregnancy in Low Ovarian Reserve Patients
Authors: ORAL SERKAN , ŞİŞMANOĞLU ALPER
Published: October 2022

Background
This study aims compare the pregnancy and live birth rates between the oocytes retrieved without follicular flushing FF(-) in the oocyte pick-up (OPU) procedure performed in women with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) and those retrieved by follicular flushing FF(+).
Results
The study was conducted among patients diagnosed with DOR according to Bologna criteria and applied to the clinic for IVF between 2017–2020. A total of 358 infertile women with follicles three and below on the hCG day, between the ages of 21 and 42, without severe male factor, without uterine anomaly, without uterine surgery, and who did not undergo PGD were included in the study. Each follicle was aspirated once in the OPU procedure, and if a follicle was retrieved, it was moved to the other follicle. If the follicle could not be retrieved, the oocyte was tried to be retrieved by flushing a maximum of 3 times. The number of oocytes retrieved, clinical pregnancy rate, and live birth rate were compared. Since all the oocytes retrieved in 143 patients were retrieved directly without the need for FF, it was named FF(-) group. Since at least one oocyte of the remaining 215 patients was retrieved by performing FF, it was named FF(+) group. Since some of the oocytes retrieved from 112 patients in the FF(+) group were retrieved with FF and some without FF, they were excluded from the study, and the remaining 103 cases formed the FF(+) group a total of 246 patients were compared. The mean number of MII oocytes ,the pregnancy rates, rates of live births and the abortion rates between two groups did not show any statistical difference.
Conclusion
FF applied during oocyte retrieval in DOR did not positively affect the number of retrieved oocytes, clinical pregnancy, and live birth rates even doing this may decrease the pregnancy rate because of the probable low quality egg but we should not forget that if we did not do flushing after once we aspirated the follicle we would not be able to obtain any pregnancy at all in this patients.