bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kelayakan Masker Gel Peel-Off Kopi Robusta (Coffea Canephora) dan Gambir (Uncaria Gambir) Terhadap Kecerahan Kulit Kering
Authors: Febri Yola Dinda , Rosalina Linda
Published: October 2023

Kulit kering menyebabkan kulit terlihat pecah-pecah, kasar dan bersisik, yang disebabkan oleh faktor cuaca, lingkungan dan penyakit kulit. Untuk itu kulit wajah membutuhkan antioksidan sehingga kulit wajah dapat terlindungi dari serangan radikal bebas yang dapat membahayakan kulit. Kopi robusta dengan kandungan flavonoid yang dapat meningkatkan aktivitas antioksidan. Dan gambir yang mengandung katekin yang bersifat antioksidan. Untuk itu dibutuhkan perawatan untuk kulit kering berupa masker gel peel-off kopi robusta dan gambir. Penelitian ini bertujuan guna untuk mengetahui kelayakan masker gel peel off kopi robusta dan gambir ditinjau dari uji kandungan flavonoid (uji laboratorium), pengujian organoleptic dengan kategori tekstur, aroma, daya lekat) dan pengujian hedonic (kesukaan panelis). Penelitian ini menggunakan metode penelitian kuantitatif dengan pendekatan ekperimen dengan  metode observasi, dokumentasi dan lembar observasi sebagai teknik pengumpulan data. Berdasarkan data yang telah diolah, diperoleh  uji kandungan flavonoid yaitu terdapat 0,0094 % (9,3951 ppm) kadar flavonoid dalam 100gr sampel yang diuji yang berfungsi sebagai antioksidan sehingga kulit dapat terlindungi dari serangan radikal bebas yang dapat membahayakan kulit wajah. Uji organoleptik dan uji hedonik menunjukkan masker gel peel-off bertekstur sangat kental, beraroma kuat, berdaya lekat sangat lekat dan disukai oleh panelis. Dengan demikian maka masker gel peel-off kopi robusta dan gambir layak digunakan terhadap kulit kering.
International Conference of Pharmaceutical and Medical Sciences
Authors: Serwa Ayi Bertha
Published: October 2023

The SARS-CoV-2 virus is a novel coronavirus that has ravaged the world. Given that there are no established treatments for coronaviruses, it presents a treatment dilemma for scientists. This presentation explores the mechanisms that go into decision making on the best treatment course for this illness with a special focus on the role of Hydroxychloroquine and Zinc.
Los Mateo de Gilbert, Nobles, Barones y Ricoshombres de Aragón, y su descendencia
Authors: De Ascoz Planes Óscar
Published: October 2023

La realidad nobiliaria en los diferentes territorios que conformaron la Corona de Aragón, a diferencia de la organización estamental en Castilla, fue muy cambiante y rica, lo que en el reino de Aragón tuvo su particular reflejo en la organización de las Cortes, donde la nobleza tenía dos brazos, el de los barones y ricoshombres, que aglutinaba a la alta nobleza, y el de los caballeros e infanzones. En el presente artículo estudiaremos el privilegio de ricahombría de los Gilbert, excepcional por su naturaleza y condiciones de transmisión, y cómo a causa del mismo muchas familias de infanzones, descendientes de Leonor Gilbert y Rosellón, hija del concesionario del privilegio, quedaron elevadas a la cúspide de la pirámide nobiliaria aragonesa.
Considering sediment beneficial use options at Lake Michigan harbors in Wisconsin
Authors: Miller Jennifer , Suedel Burton , McFall Brian
Published: October 2023

In 2020 the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) reassigned 14 federally maintained harbors in the Wisconsin waters of Lake Michigan to USACE–Chicago District. The administrative change presents opportunities for increased beneficial use of sediment at harbors that have not traditionally placed sediment beneficially. This paper summarizes a screening-level analysis of 12 harbors to determine which harbors are likely to have sediment appropriate for beneficial use in the future, either in water or upland. The harbors were qualitatively ranked according to the potential for future successful beneficial use of navigationally dredged sediment. Using this screening, data needs were defined and next steps to aid the development of a regional dredged-material management plan were identified.
Imprecise Evidence in Social Learning
Authors: Liu Zixuan , Crosscombe Michael , Lawry Jonathan
Published: October 2023

Social learning is a collective approach to decentralised decision-making and is comprised of two process; evidence updating and belief fusion. In this paper we propose a social learning model in which agents’ beliefs are represented by a set of possible states, and where the evidence collected can vary in its level of imprecision. We investigate this model using multi-agent and multi-robot simulations and demonstrate that it is robust to imprecise evidence. Our results also show that certain kinds of imprecise evidence can enhance the efficacy of the learning process in the presence of sensor errors.
Identification of Water Vapor Flux Convergence Layers and Estimation of Precipitation over Ethiopia
Authors: kebede Tegegne , kebede Abebe , ayele kefyalew
Published: October 2023

This paper aimed to investigate the most important moisture-bearing layers in VIWVF among different monthly intervals over the Ethiopian atmosphere based European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) averaged reanalysis zonal and meridional wind data and specific humidity data with the time coverage from 1991-2019 with 0.25° by 0.25° spatial resolution in various types of pressure levels from 1000hpa to 300hpa and ERA5-Land monthly averaged reanalysis data for precipitation. The Ethiopian troposphere is classified into four layers clustering by the Euclidean Distance method. VIWVF and specific humidity are higher in the lower pressure levels and decrease at higher altitudes. The moisture source during the Belg season is the Indian Ocean and the Arabian Sea are the main sources; the ML1 and ML2 are the interesting layers and good moisture convergence cores for Belg season rainfall, especially in March and April. During the Kiremt season, VIWVF sources are from the South Indian Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea through the Red Sea, with high moisture flux convergence observed in Lr. L and ML1 tropospheric layers (1000hpa-850hpa and 825hpa-750hpa), in July and August. Significant positive correlations between Belg VIWVF and precipitation were recognized in the layer 700hpa-600hpa over Northeastern highlands, Bale, Harar, and Yirgacheffe, whereas significant positive correlation with Kiremt rainfall over central-western to northwestern Ethiopia in July and August at 1000-850hpa and 825-750hpa. This research targeted to identify the most important moisture-centered layers, especially in the Summer(main) and Spring (second) rainy seasons through VIWVF and its association with precipitation in order to forecast climate and weather impacts over Ethiopia’s atmosphere.
The mechanism of room-temperature oxidation of a Ti3C2Tx MXene determined via environmental transmission electron microscopy and molecular dynamics
Authors: Wang Shuangbao , Liu Yuying , Shi Zhihao , Liang Tingbin , Zheng Dehui , Yang Zhichao , Wang Zhen , Zhou Jian
Published: October 2023

The oxidation chemistry of two-dimensional transition metal carbide MXenes has brought new research significance to their protection and application. However, the oxidation behaviour and degradation mechanism of MXenes, in particular with time under oxygen conditions at room temperature, remain largely unexplored. Here, several experimental and theoretical techniques are used to determine a very early stage of the oxidation mechanism of Ti3C2Tx (a major member of MXenes and Tx = surface functional groups) in an oxygen environment at room temperature. Aberration-corrected environmental transmission electron microscopy coupled with reactive molecular dynamics simulations show that the crystal plane-dependent oxidation rate of Ti3C2Tx and oxide expansion are attributed to differences in the coordination and charge of superficial Ti atoms, and the existence of the channels between neighbouring MXene layers on the different crystal planes. The complementary X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy analyses indicate that the anatase and a tiny fraction of brookite TiO2 successively precipitate from the amorphous region of oxidized Ti3C2Tx, grow irregularly and transform to rutile TiO2. Our study reveals the early-stage structural evolution of MXenes in the presence of oxygen and facilitates further tailoring of the MXene performance employing oxidation strategy.
Theory of Change for addressing sex and gender bias, invisibility and exclusion in health and medical research, policy, and practice
Authors: Hallam Laura , Gadsden Thomas , Carcel Cheryl , Norton Robyn , Woodward Mark , Chappell Louise , Downey Laura E
Published: October 2023

Background:Sex and gender are inadequately considered in health and medical research, policy and practice, leading to preventable disparities in health and wellbeing. Several global institutions, journals, and funding bodies have developed policies and guidelines to improve the inclusion of diverse participants and consideration of sex and gender in research design and reporting and the delivery of clinical care. However, according to recent evaluations these policies have had limited impact on the inclusion of diverse research participants, adequate reporting of sex and gender data, and reducing preventable inequities in access to, and quality provision of, healthcare. In Australia, the Sex and Gender Policies in Medical Research (SGPMR) project aims to address sex and gender bias in health and medical research by i) examining how sex and gender are currently considered in Australian research policy and practice; ii) working with stakeholders to develop policy interventions; and iii) understanding the wider impacts, including economic, of improved sex and gender consideration in Australian health and medical research. In this paper we describe the development of a theory of change (ToC) for the SGPMR project.
Methods: The ToC evolved from a two-stage process consisting of key stakeholder interviews and a consultation event.
Results: The ToC identifies the pathways to impact from improved consideration of sex and gender in health and medical research, policy, and practice, and highlights how key activities and policy levers can lead to improvements in clinical practice and health outcomes.
Conclusions:In describing the development of the ToC, we present an entirely novel framework for outlining how sex and gender can be appropriately considered within the confines of health and medical research, policy, and practice.
Managerial Insights for AI/ML Implementation: A Playbook for Successful Organizational Integration
Authors: Abonamah Abdullah A. , Abdelhamid Neda
Published: October 2023

In the contemporary business environment, the assimilation of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) is pivotal for fostering innovation and ensuring long-term growth. This paper examines the strategic aspects of AI/ML adoption, emphasizing that its success rests not just on technology but also on strategic alignment, collaboration, and robust leadership. Highlighting the indispensable role of senior leaders, the paper offers a managerial framework for AI/ML integration, ensuring its alignment with organizational goals. Using real-world examples, the paper presents how AI/ML can be strategically embedded to enhance customer interactions, streamline operations, and unveil new revenue avenues. The objective is to provide senior leaders with an understanding, enabling them to harness AI/ML effectively, ensuring their organizations remain at the innovation forefront in a digital age dominated by disruptive AI/ML technologies.
Some new results in generalized weighted core inverse in Banach *-algebras
Authors: Chen Huanyin , Abdolyousefi Marjan Sheibani
Published: October 2023

We present new properties of generalized weighted core inverse in a Banach *-algebra. We characterize generalized weighted core inverse by using the polar-like property. The reverse order law for generalized weighted core inverse is established. The properties of generalized weighted core orders are thereby investigated.
2020 Mathematics Subject Classification. 15A09, 16U99, 46H05
The potential effectiveness of tolvaptan independent of cardiac disease in critically ill patients: A retrospective observational study
Authors: Yamazaki Yuma , NIWA HIDETOMO , Ishiyama Erina , Hori Mirei , Sugo Yuki , Hirota Kazuyoshi
Published: October 2023

Background: The selective arginine vasopressin 2 receptor antagonist tolvaptan has been demonstrated to increase the urine volume of patients with cardiac issues. We investigated the potential diuretic effectiveness of tolvaptan independent of cardiac disease in critically ill patients.
Patients and Methods: This was a single-center (teaching hospital) retrospective observational study. We analyzed the data of the hospital's critically ill adult patients (n=477) including non-cardiac as well as cardiac populations who had an ICU stay ≥4 days in 2019–2020 and who did not undergo permanent renal replacement therapy before their ICU admission. We investigated the independent effects of tolvaptan use on the primary endpoint (increased urine volume) and a secondary endpoint (time-course changes in patients' serum creatine [sCr] values), adjusted for confounders (patients' disease severity, comorbidities including cardiac disease, and diuretics used), by applying two statistical models: (i) a multivariate logistic regression model to estimate the predictors independent of cardiac disease for the patients whose daily urine volume had increased by >twofold compared to the minimal value, and (ii) a generalized estimating equation model to estimate tolvaptan's effect independent of cardiac disease on time-course changes in the sCr level.
Results: Tolvaptan use was a significant predictor independent of cardiac disease for increased urine volume (odds ratio [OR] 1.86, 95%CI: 1.13–3.06, p=0.015). In contrast, cardiac disease was asignificant independent predictor of decreased urine volume (OR 0.58, 95%CI: 0.37–0.90, p=0.016). Tolvaptan use was not significantly associated with time-course changes in the sCr level: beta estimator [95%CI], 0.07 [−0.01 to 0.15], p=0.08.
Conclusions: Tolvaptan use was a significant predictor — independent of cardiac disease — for increased daily urine volume in this critically ill population. After adjustment for cardiac disease, tolvaptan was not associated with time-course changes in the patients' sCr levels during their intensive care.
Trial registration: Not applicable.
The effect of zataria multiflora on respiratory symptoms, pulmonary functions, and oxidative stress parameters: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Aryaeian Naheed , Agh Fahimeh , Ghoreishy Seyed Mojtaba , Ahmadi Amirhossein Ramezani , Sadeghi Narges , Dehghan Narges , Morvaridi Mehrnaz
Published: October 2023

Background
Zataria multiflora Boiss. is a medicinal plant with multiple pharmacological effects. This systematic review aims to review the available randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to assess the effects of zataria multiflora on respiratory symptoms, pulmonary function, and oxidative stress parameters.
Materials & Methods
We conducted a systematic review by searching the PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, Cochrane Central for Randomized Clinical Trials. All statistical analyses were performed using STATA.
Results
Z. multiflora had a significant effect on cough, day wheezing, night wheezing and chest wheezing. Also, significantly improved FEV, FVC, MMEF, and PEF. In addition, significantly reduced MDA levels and increased CAT levels.
Conclusion
The meta-analysis showed that the consumption of ZT significantly reduced respiratory symptoms compared to the control group. Also, Zataria multiflora might be beneficial in improving pulmonary function. Except MDA, the result of this study indicated that Zataria multiflora did not have any significant effect on oxidative stress parameters.
Seeded growth of three-dimensional block heterojunctions featuring heterogeneous long-range exciton migration
Authors: Che Yanke , Gong Yanjun , Ren Yangyang , Che Yanxue , Liao Chenglong , Ji Hongwei , Cui Linfeng , Zang Ling , Zhao Jincai
Published: October 2023

Three-dimensional (3D) block heterojunctions composed of different individual blocks may bring forth emergent properties beyond that of one-dimensional and two-dimensional block heterojunctions. However, the strategies to construct 3D block heterojunctions still lack. Here, we report a living self-assembly of sized-controlled 3D block heterojunctions that show remarkable heterogeneous long-range exciton migration. A near-infrared (NIR) donor–acceptor (D–A) molecule is designed and assembled into a unique 3D architecture as the hetero-seed. The resulting hetero-seed can guide the continuous growth of another D–A molecule in the same fashion to produce the 3D block heterojunction. The seed-guided molecular packing within the outer block is unstable under ultraviolet (UV) irradiation; the photoinduced rearrangement can cause interfacial debonding of the 3D block heterojunction and thereby interrupt the efficient energy transfer from the outer block to the seed core, leading to prominent photoinduced emission enhancement. This phenomenon inspires us to apply the 3D block heterojunction as the platform to precisely measure heterogeneous long-range exciton migration, a valuable parameter for optoelectronic devices whose determination remains a great challenge for organic materials.
Asgard archaea defense systems and their roles in the origin of eukaryotic immunity
Authors: Leão Pedro , Little Mary , Appler Kathryn , Sahaya Daphne , Aguilar-Pine Emily , Currie Kathryn , Finkelstein Ilya , De Anda Valerie , Baker Brett
Published: October 2023

Immune systems are integral to survival against viral infection. Recently, dozens of new anti-viral systems have been characterized in bacteria. Some of these systems are present in eukaryotes and appear to have originated in prokaryotes. However, little is known about these defense mechanisms in archaea. Here, we identified 2,610 complete defense systems in archaea related to eukaryotes, the Asgardarchaeota. These comprise 89 unique systems, including argonaute, NLR, mokosh, viperin, lassamu, and CBASS. Asgard viperin (asVip) and argonaute (asAgo) proteins are present at high frequencies compared to bacteria and have structural homology to eukaryotes. Phylogenetic analyses revealed asVips are ancestral eukaryotic proteins. Heterologous expression of asVips in bacteria, including the lineage closest to eukaryotes, Hodarchaeales, showed robust anti-phage activity. Eukaryotic- and bacterial-argonaute proteins appear to have originated in Asgardarchaeota, and preserve ancient structural characteristics. AsAgos have argonaute-PIWI domains which are key components of the RNA interference (RNAi) in eukaryotes. Characterization of hundreds of defense systems in the Asgardarchaeota revealed these archaea played important roles in the innovation of viral protection in eukaryotes. Given their relationship to eukaryotes, these defense systems may have applications in biomedicine and biotechnology.
Development of insecticidal nano-composite solution to control termite losses in peach
Authors: Zarish Sana , Raja Naveed Iqbal , Abbasi Fozia
Published: October 2023

Peach (Prunus persica L.) be a part of family Rosacea, although Aaru is its local name. Pakistan ranked 25th in peach production. In Pakistan, peach is a prime stone fruit after plum. It is summer fruit but can be used in winter season after drying its fruit. It also contains medicinal properties because it carries various phenolic compounds in fruit. Termites are one of the most important insect that damage the peach tree and due to their attack tree should be hollowed, leaves become wilt and ultimately becomes in the form of plant death. Termites attack on plants can be control by a unique innovative technique which is nanotechnology. Nanotechnology is the 21st century science executes output of various nanoparticles possessing range amid 1 to 100 nm. Among these, Ag/ZnO nanoparticles are very important due to raised surface area to volume ratio and catalytic efficiency. Bimetallic nanoparticles may increase water uptake, nutrient use efficiency, hence may improve plant growth and their yield by changing physio-morphic and biochemical attributes. Green bimetallic Ag/ZnO nanoparticles will be synthesized from salts reduced by Moringaoleifera Lam. Ag/ZnO nanoparticles will be characterized by UV-Visible Spectroscopy, SEM, FTIR and EDX. Nanocomposite Ag/ZnO with various concentrations i.e 100ppm, 200ppm, 300ppm, 400ppm, 500ppmand have two control (T + no treatment and T- 500ppm Ag/ZnO salt). Effect will be analyzed for physiological (membrane stability index, chlorophyll content, relative water content), biochemical (SOD, POD, catalase, proline content, protein content, sugar content). All the obtained data will be analyzed through ANOVA by using SPSS 16.1 program.
Specific colorimetric LAMP assay for the detection of maize bushy stunt phytoplasma in corn through comparative genomics
Authors: Egito Isabella Cristina Santos , Alves Angelica Rodrigues , Carvalho Ian Carlos Bispo , Ferreira Luciellen Costa , Rossato Maurício
Published: October 2023

Brazil stands out for being the third largest corn producer in the world, in addition to having self-sufficiency in national supply. Even with the high production, the country has, throughout its extension, climatic conditions that favor the attack of several pathogens. Maize red stunt, caused by maize bushy stunt phytoplasma (MBSP), is one of the most harmful diseases to the crop, therefore, there is a demand for detection methods that are fast and accurate. Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) is one of these methods, being fast, sensitive, with high specificity and can be used in field analysis. The goal of the present work was the development of a LAMP protocol, through comparative genomics, for MBSP in maize. To design the sets of primers, MBSP genome sequence and other sequences of other pathogens were used in the RUCS software to select only core unique sequences. Three sets of primers presented the desired criteria and were synthetized. The most promising primer set, MBSP-LP, was used to test the LAMP assay together with the Warmstart colorimetric LAMP 2X master mix (NEB) Kit. The collection of 51 samples of corn with and without symptoms was tested with a typical nested-PCR and compared with the proposed LAMP assay. Considering the presence and absence of symptoms, there was confirmation that the symptomatic plants were positive for LAMP in a greater proportion than for nested-PCR. The proposed LAMP assay proved to be sensitive, detecting up to 0.1 fg µL-1 of DNA. The use of plant material directly in the reaction was evaluated for changing the color of the master mix and also for inhibiting the reaction. It was identified that there are no inhibitors in the maize plant tissue, being possible to use this LAMP with plant tissue without the DNA extraction step.
Lack of mitochondrial complex I assembly factor NDUFAF2 results in a distinctive infantile-onset brainstem neurodegenerative disease with early lethality
Authors: Hanna Firas Abu , Zehavi Yoav , Cohen-Barak Eran , Khayat Morad , warwar Nasim , shreter Roni , Rodenburg Richard J , SPIEGEL RONEN
Published: October 2023

Background Congenital disorders of the mitochondrial respiratory chain are a heterogeneous group of inborn errors of metabolism. Among them, NADH:ubiquinone oxidoreductase (complex I, CI) deficiency is the most common. Biallelic pathogenic variants in NDUFAF2, encoding the nuclear assembly CI factor NDUFAF2, were initially reported to cause progressive encephalopathy beginning in infancy. Since the initial report in 2005, less than a dozen patients with NDUFAF2-related disease have been reported.
Methods Clinical, biochemical, and neuroradiological features of four new patients were collected. Enzymatic activities of the five respiratory-chain complexes were determined in isolated fibroblast mitochondria by spectrophotometric methods. Western blot analyses were conducted with anti-human NDUFAF2 antibody; antibody against the mitochondrial marker VDAC1 was used as a loading control. Genetic studies were performed by chromosome microarray analysis using Affymetrix CytoScan 750K arrays.
Results The patients presented with infantile-onset growth retardation, ophthalmological impairments with nystagmus, strabismus, and optic atrophy, and further progressed to life-threatening episodes of apnea triggered by trivial febrile illnesses with gradual loss of acquired developmental milestones. Serial magnetic-resonance imaging studies showed a progressive pattern of abnormal T2-weighted hyperintense signals involving primarily the brainstem, the upper cervical cord, and later, the basal ganglia and thalami. Magnetic-resonance spectroscopy in one patient showed an increased lactate peak. Disease progression was marked by ventilatory dependency and early lethality. The patients harbored a homozygous 142-kb partial interstitial deletion that omits exons 2–4 of NDUFAF2. Mitochondrial CI activity was significantly decreased. Western blot analysis disclosed the absence of NDUFAF2 protein compared to normal controls. In addition, we reviewed all 10 previously reported NDUFAF2-deficient cases to better characterize the disease.
Conclusions Biallelic loss-of-function mutations in NDUFAF2 result in a distinctive phenotype in the spectrum of Leigh syndrome with clinical and neuroradiological features that are primarily attributed to progressive brainstem damage.
Genome-wide association study suggests that CPQ influences the Omicron variant COVID-19 severity
Authors: Hou Can , Zeng Yu , Zhang Yanan , Yang Lei , Yang Huazhen , Chen Wenwen , Qu Yuanyuan , Bu Fengxiao , Valdimarsdóttir Unnur A. , Fang Fang , Li Qian , Song Jie , Song Huan
Published: October 2023

Host genetic background has been indicated in the severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) with multiple genetic variants identified, either across or in specific populations. However, previous host genetic studies of COVID-19 were either pre-Omicron era or conducted on various mutants of SARS-CoV-2, and few were performed among non-European populations. To investigate the genetic variation contributing to the severity of infections with SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant, we performed a genome-wide association study among 5,151 Chinese individuals newly infected with SARS-CoV-2 since January 2022 (269 severe cases and 4,882 mild cases). We identified a novel genomic locus on chromosome 8q22.1 (rs7817424, P-value = 4.60×10−8) in the CPQ gene that is involved in hydrolysis of circulating peptides. Gene mapping approach using colocalization of eQTL, pQTL and sQTL data and similarity-based gene prioritization suggested CPQ as the risk gene. Multiple analyses using single-cell RNA sequencing data, in combination with transcription factor binding motif analyses support a role of the CPQ gene in the manifestation of severe symptoms of the Omicron variant, which might be through involvement in the NF-κB pathway activation. Future confirmatory studies are warranted and may help identify mechanistic targets for therapeutic development.
Assessing Excess Mortality of Baby Boomers from the COVID-19 Pandemic: Taiwan Naïve Omicron Infection Study
Authors: Lin Ting-Yu , Hsu Chen-Yang , Yen Amy Ming-Fang , Chen Sam Li-Sheng , Chen Hsiu-Hsi
Published: October 2023

Background: Asia's elderly Baby Boomer demographic (born between 1946 and 1964) faced a huge problem during the COVID-19 pandemic due to increased all-cause mortality. We aimed to provide a unique Taiwan situation regarding the impact of Baby Boomers on excess mortalities from all causes relative to non-Baby Boomers throughout distinct times of SARS-CoV-2 mutations during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods: The Poisson time series design with Bayesian directed acyclic graphic approach was proposed to build the background mortality prior to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2015-2019. It was then used for predicting the expected all-cause deaths compared to the reported figures during the COVID-19 pandemic period based on Taiwan residents, a naïve Omicron infection cohort.
Results: Baby Boomers experienced a 2% (95% CI: 1%-3%) negative excess in 2020 (Wuhan/D614G) and a 4% (95% CI: 2%-5%) excess in 2021 (Alpha/Delta), relative to non-Baby Boomers, due to a rising mortality trend for Baby Boomers, but remained constant for non-Baby Boomers. Baby Boomer and non-Baby Boomer mortality rates soared to 9% (95% CI: 7%-10%) and 10% (95% CI: 9%-11%), respectively. Surprisingly, Baby Boomers aged 58-76 experienced the same 9% excess mortality as non-Baby Boomers aged 77 and beyond. Non-COVID-19 deaths were more prevalent among Baby Boomers than non-Baby Boomers (33% vs. 29%).
Conclusion: Baby Boomers were more likely to die from COVID-19 and had more non-COVID-19 deaths than older non-Baby Boomers. For this vulnerable population, adequate access to medical care and medical capacity require more consideration.
Energy sustainability and carbon dioxide emissions mitigation Options for South Africa’s Road Transport Sector
Authors: Ntuli Menzi Nazi , Eloka-Eboka Andrew C , Mwangi Festus MAINA , Ewim Daniel Raphael Ejike , Dioha Michael O
Published: October 2023

Background
The transport sector in South Africa is responsible for around 11% of the country's carbon dioxide emissions, with road transport contributing an overwhelming 90% of this total, as noted by the South African Green Transport Energy of South Africa. As part of its commitment to global climate pacts, South Africa aims to reduce emissions from its road transport sector. Yet, studies focused on reducing energy consumption and related emissions in this sector have been sparse.
Results
Utilizing a bottom-up accounting modelling framework, this research investigated five low-carbon transition scenarios alongside a business-as-usual (BAU) scenario for road transport. These scenarios comprised Fuel and Technology Switching (FTS), Modal Shift (MS), Logistics Improvement (LI), Energy Efficient (EEF), and a Combined Mitigation (CMT). The BAU scenario was established as a benchmark to demonstrate energy demand and emissions in the absence of changes to current practices or policies. According to our model, under the BAU scenario, there will be a 61% surge in final energy demand, from 769 petajoules (PJ) in 2020 to 1240 PJ by 2050, accompanied by a proportional increase in emissions. The study revealed that the implementation of any of the alternative low-carbon scenarios could yield a reduced energy demand by 2050. Significantly, a combined approach, integrating multiple low-carbon policies, can achieve more substantial reductions in energy demand and CO2 emissions than applying single policies separately.
Conclusions
This study emphasizes the importance of crafting province-specific solutions, acknowledging that challenges and contexts vary between provinces. Furthermore, lessening energy reliance not only diminishes the nation's fuel import bills but also improves air quality and aids in achieving low emission targets.
Metagenomics next generation sequencing for diagnosis of invasive fungal diseases in patients with hematological diseases
Authors: Chen Xi , Lian Yun , Song Yuhua , Long Qiqiang
Published: October 2023

PURPOSE: To investigate the clinical characteristics and risk factors of invasive fungal disease (IFD) in patients with hematological disorders.
METHODS: From January 2022 to January 2023, seventy patients with blood diseases hospitalized at the Second Hospital of Nanjing who were suspected of infection with IFD underwent mNGS and fungal pathogen detection. The clinical characteristics and laboratory data of 32 fungal infected individuals (IFD group) and 38 non-IFD groups were compared. SPSS and R software were used for the statistical analysis of risk factors associated with IFD.
RESULTS: Using the results of conventional fungal cultures as a “gold standard”, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of mNGS for the evaluation of fungal pathogen infections in patients with hematological disorders were found to be 100% (10/10), 63.3% (38/60), 31.3% (10/32), and 100% (38/38), respectively. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed six independent risk factors associated with IFD in patients with hematological disorders: CD4+T cell count < 400 cells/µL (odds ratio (OR)=7.43, p=3.79x10-4), elevated C-reactive protein (OR=3.71, p=0.01), elevated interleukin (IL)-6 (OR=6.5, p=2.93x10-4), elevated IL-10 (OR=3.03, p=0.041), hypoproteinemia (OR=7.04, p=0.025), and neutropenia persisting for >10 days (OR=3.03, p=0.002).
CONCLUSION: mNGS has high sensitivity in detecting IFD in patients with hematological diseases. CD4+cell count below 400/ul, increased level of C-reactive protein, IL-6, and IL-10, hypoalbuminemia, and neutropenia lasting for more than 10 days are independent risk factors for IFD in patients with hematological diseases.
The combined application of the frailty index and prognostic nutritional index for short-term prognosis after colorectal surgery
Authors: Huang Lihong , Li Zhifa , Liang Zhiwei , Wu Xiaobing , Song Shixi , Qin Haifeng , Li Ziqiao , Chen Huixian , Xie Yingjun , Chen Rong
Published: October 2023

Objective
Cooperative physiological reserve function is closely related to postoperative mortality and adverse outcomes. Elderly patients with colorectal cancer should undergo preoperative geriatric assessment (GA). To construct a PNI-MFI-5 scoring system based on the prognostic nutrition index (PNI) and 5-factor Modified Frailty Index (MFI-5), we evaluated elderly patients before surgery and explored its value in predicting poor prognosis after colorectal cancer surgery.
Methods
A total of 213 elderly patients who underwent radical resection of colorectal cancer were selected. The critical values of PNI and MFI-5 and their correlation were determined by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, and the relationship between the PNI-MFI-5 score and clinical parameters of colorectal cancer was analysed. A Cox regression model was used to determine the relationship between the PNI-MFI-5 score and poor postoperative prognosis, and an ROC curve was used to determine the predictive efficiency of PNI-MFI-5.
Results
There was a significant correlation between preoperative PNI and preoperative MFI-5 score (r = -0.14, p < 0.05). The PNI-MFI-5 scores increased significantly in advanced age (P < 0.003), ASA grade 3–4 (p < 0.001), preoperative anaemia (p < 0.001), preoperative hypoproteinaemia (p < 0.001) and tumour diameter ≥ 5 cm (p < 0.001). A total of 73 patients had adverse outcome events, of which postoperative hypoproteinaemia accounted for the highest proportion, followed by pulmonary infection. With increasing grade, postoperative pulmonary infection (OR = 2.374, p < 0.001), anastomotic leakage (OR = 2.390, p < 0.001), septicemia (OR = 4.198, p < 0.001), hypoproteinaemia (OR = 3.075, p < 0.001), and cardio-cerebrovascular accident (OR = 3.742) occurred. The risk of postoperative adverse outcome events, such as death at 30 days after the operation (OR = 4.198, p < 0.05), increased. Further univariate and multivariate analyses showed that only the PNI-MFI-5 score (OR = 2.540, 95% CI 1.498–4.307 score pendant 0.001) was an independent predictor of adverse outcome events after CRC. The prediction efficiency of PNI-MFI-5 was higher, and the area under the curve of the PNI-MFI-5 score (AUC = 0.724, P < 0.001) was larger than that of the MFI-5 score (AUC = 0.678, 95% CI 0.602–0.753 (P < 0.001) and PNI (AUC = 0.667, 95% CI 0.585–0.748, P < 0.001).
Conclusion
The perioperative risk model of the PNI-MFI-5 score system was constructed to accurately predict the risk of postoperative adverse outcomes in patients with colorectal cancer.
Estimating alcohol and tobacco consumption of university students and urban population in Ho Chi Minh city by wastewater-based epidemiology
Authors: Do Thi Thuy Quyen , Tran Thi Yen Nhi , Nguyen Thi Thanh Nhon , To Thi Hien
Published: October 2023

This study employed wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) to assess alcohol and tobacco consumption of university students and urban residents in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Ethyl sulfate and cotinine were chosen to be the markers of alcohol and tobacco use, respectively. The estimation showed that on average a student consumed between 0.69 ± 0.13 mL of pure alcohol and 1.2 ± 0.2 mg nicotine per day. These values were significantly lower when compared to the consumption rates among urban residents, which were 2.41 ± 0.34 mL of pure alcohol and 4.34 ± 0.60 mg nicotine per day per person aged 15 and above. The estimated alcohol consumption in this study was substantially lower than previous survey-based reports, however, the tobacco consumption rate closely aligned with the findings of surveys conducted among current smokers. The degradation of biomaker within household on-site septic tanks was thought to take account for the low alcohol comsuption estimation. Further research is necessary to consider the correction factors of WBE method in the context of sewage system.
Optimized, automated and cGMP-compliant synthesis of the HER2 targeting [68Ga]Ga-ABY-025 tracer
Authors: Jussing Emma , Ferrat Mélodie , Moein Mohammad M , Alfredéen Henrik , Tegnebratt Tetyana , Bratteby Klas , Samén Erik , Feldwisch Joachim , Altena Renske , Axelsson Rimma , Tran Thuy A
Published: October 2023

Background

The Affibody molecule, ABY-025, has demonstrated utility to
detect human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) in vivo,
either radiolabelled with indium-111 (111In) or
gallium-68 (68Ga). Using the latter, 68Ga, is
preferred due to its use in positron emission tomography with
superior resolution and quantifying capabilities in the clinical
setting compared to 111In. For an ongoing phase II study
(NCT05619016) evaluating ABY-025 for detecting HER2-low lesions and
selection of patients for HER2-targeted treatment, the aim was to
optimize an automated and cGMP-compliant radiosynthesis of
[68Ga]Ga-ABY-025.

[68Ga]Ga-ABY-025 was produced on a synthesis module, Modular-Lab PharmTracer (Eckert & Ziegler), commonly used for 68Ga-labelings. The radiotracer has previously been radiolabeled on this module, but to streamline the production, the method was optimized. Steps requiring manual interactions to the radiolabeling procedure were minimized including a convenient and automated pre-concentration of the 68Ga-eluate and a simplified automated final formulation procedure. Every part of the radiopharmaceutical production was carefully developed to gain robustness and to avoid any operator bound variations to the manufacturing. The optimized production method was successfully applied for 68Ga-labeling of another radiotracer, verifying its versatility as a universal and robust method for radiosynthesis of Affibody-based peptides.

Results

A simplified and optimized automated cGMP-compliant radiosynthesis method of [68Ga]Ga-ABY-025 was developed. With a decay corrected radiochemical yield of 44.5 ± 2.2%, a radiochemical purity (RCP) of 99 ± 1%, and with an RCP stability of 98 ± 1% at 2 hours after production, the method was found highly reproducible. The production method also showed comparable results when implemented for radiolabeling another similar peptide.

Conclusion

The improvements made for the radiosynthesis of [68Ga]Ga-ABY-025, including introducing a pre-concentration of the 68Ga-eluate, aimed to utilize the full potential of the 68Ge/68Ga generator radioactivity output, thereby reducing radioactivity wastage. Furthermore, reducing the number of manually performed preparative steps prior to the radiosynthesis, not only minimized the risk of potential human/operator errors but also enhanced the process’ robustness. The successful application of this optimized radiosynthesis method to another similar peptide underscores its versatility, suggesting that our method can be adopted for 68Ga-labeling radiotracers based on Affibody molecules in general.
Trial registration: NCT, NCT05619016, Registered 7 November 2022, https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05619016?term=HER2&cond=ABY025&rank=1
Parenting students and indicators of financial stability, health, and academic success: Findings from a population-based sample of public urban university students
Authors: Sanborn Jenna , Manze Meredith , Watnick Dana
Published: October 2023

Parenting students constitute a significant portion of the college population, with 22% of undergraduate students nationwide managing the dual responsibilities of parenthood and education. This study examines the health, financial, and academic aspects of parenting students attending a large, urban public university, specifically comparing single parents to their married or cohabiting counterparts and non-parenting students in New York City. We collected data from 2,104 participants, including 142 single parents and 119 married or cohabiting parents, through a cross-sectional survey. Using adjusted regression models, we evaluated the associations between parenting status and financial, health, and academic factors. Our findings reveal that, in comparison to non-parents, single parents are significantly more likely to carry debt (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 1.81), rely on food assistance (aOR: 5.03), and achieve slightly lower GPAs (β: -0.11). Single parents also work more hours (aOR: 1.66) and have an increased likelihood of facing debt (aOR: 2.66), housing difficulties (aOR: 2.80), food insecurity (aOR: 2.21), and lower GPAs (β: -0.22) compared to their married or cohabiting peers. The disaggregation of single and married or cohabiting parents reveals significant disparities, emphasizing the vulnerability of single parenting students in higher education. Targeted interventions addressing issues like food security and housing are essential to support the academic success of single parents.
Study of influence of Zeolite Application in Rigid pavement and Strength Prediction through Regression Analysis
Authors: Waghmare Sushant , Ghadvir Gopi
Published: October 2023

Concrete is widely employed in construction due to its cost-effectiveness and high durability. A crucial factor impacting concrete performance is the quality of cement used in its production. Incorporating Pozzolanic mineral additives like fly ash and GGBFS during concrete production can result in significant environmental and economic benefits. This addition is known to decrease the calcium hydroxide content in the cement paste, enhancing the permeability of the concrete. Zeolites are alumina silicates characterized by crystalline structures with uniform pores and cavities. They possess unique properties such as molecular sieving, ion exchange, a large surface area, and catalytic activity, making them highly promising for various industrial applications. The Pozzolanic properties of Zeolite primarily arise from their SiO2 and Al2O3 content, which react with calcium hydroxide (CaOH2) generated during cement hydration. This reaction transforms CaOH2 into Calcium Silicate Hydrate (CSH) gel, ultimately improving the microstructure and impermeability of the concrete. Attempts have been made to utilize zeolite concrete additives to neutralize harmful substances, especially those found in fire extinguishing materials. Although the concrete's CO2 absorption with added zeolite has not been precisely measured, zeolite demonstrates strong adsorption properties for CO2 and NOx. This study aims to investigate the impact of incorporating Natural Zeolite on the strength properties of concrete. Statistical tools like the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), Python, are employed for regression analysis to propose various formulas for strength prediction. The predicted results are subsequently validated through laboratory tests on concrete blended with Zeolite.
Genomic Features and Prognostic Biomarkers of Chinese Resectable Lung Adenocarcinoma Patients with a Micropapillary Component
Authors: Zhang Zhenyang , Zhu Jiafu , Lin Wenwei , Wu Mengmeng , Yan Junrong , Xu Yang , Wu Long , Lian Yuane , Kang Mingqiang , Lin Jiangbo
Published: October 2023

Background
Lung adenocarcinoma (LADC) with a micropapillary component (MPC) (LMPC) is an aggressive histologic subtype of lung cancer, with unique pathological features and poor prognosis. Previous studies have characterized the driver mutations in LMPC, however, its comprehensive molecular profile and prognosis-related biomarkers in the Chinese population remain elusive.
Methods
We retrospectively studied 54 stage I-III LMPC patients who underwent complete resection and the LMPC tumor samples were characterized using broad-panel next-generation sequencing (NGS) of 425 cancer-related genes. The association among clinicopathologic factors, genomic characteristics, and post-operation recurrence risk were then explored.
Results
When compared with a reference cohort of 113 LADC patients, LMPC exhibited a unique genetic profile, with more diverse targetable mutations, an increased number of oncogenic pathways altered (NPA), and more oncogenic pathway-related alterations. The mutation frequencies of ERBB4 (11.1% vs. 1.8%, P = 0.015), BRAF (9.3% vs. 1.8%, P = 0.037), PIK3CA (14.8% vs. 4.4%, P = 0.029), RPTOR (P = 0.033), and NOTCH2 (P = 0.033) were significantly higher in LMPC. Moreover, LMPC patients harbored significantly more alterations in three oncogenic pathways (i.e., PI3K, WNT, and TGF-β) and a significantly increased NPA(P < 0.001). By analyzing the correlations between genetic features and median disease-free survival (mDFS) in stage II-III LMPC patients, SMARCA4 mutations (13.9 months vs. Not reached (NR), P = 0.013), as well as alterations in the SWI/SNF (16.3 months vs.NR, P = 0.003) and NRF2 (17.0 monthsvs.NR, P = 0.046) pathways, were significantly associated with higher postoperative recurrence risk. Furthermore, tumor mutation burden (TMB) was significantly correlated with postoperative DFS, with low TMB patients associating with prolonged mDFS than high TMB patients (NR vs.16.8 months, P = 0.021).
Conclusion
Our study elucidated the unique genetic features and the associated prognosis in Chinese resectable LMPC patients, and we found several molecular factors, especially TMB, can serve as potential prognostic biomarkers in stage II-III resectable LMPC. This study helps better understand the underlying mechanism and direct treatment decisions of this aggressive cancer subtype.