bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Manipulating spatial directivity of acoustic scattering from a submerged cylinder by means of annular grooves
Authors: Zhou Yan-Ling , Fan Jun , Wang Bin , Li Bing ,   State Key Laboratory of Ocean Engineering, Collaborative Innovation Center for Advanced Ship and Deep-Sea Exploration, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
Published: August 2021

An annular groove (AG) structure with depth gradient is proposed which can manipulate the spatial distribution of the acoustic scattering field for a finite rigid cylinder in water. An analytical analysis is given for better understanding the underlying mechanism of the abnormal scattered wave, which can be accomplished by using the phased array theory. When the plane acoustic wave is normally incident, the scattering acoustic wave in the transverse direction of the cylinder deflects, which is due to the interaction between the phase delay modulated by the AG structure with varying groove depths and the Bragg scattering of adjacent grooves. The finite element method is used to calculate the acoustic scattering field of a finite rigid cylinder with annular grooves and obtain the frequency and spatial distribution characteristics. How the structural parameters such as depth, gradient, and duty ratio of the annular grooves affect the acoustic scattering field is discussed in detail. The results show that the target strength in the transverse direction decreases linearly with duty ratio increasing while the target strength in the deflection direction of the acoustic wave increases with the duty ratio until δ = 30%, after which it remains almost constant. When the incident acoustic wave is fixed, the acoustic scattering wave of the AG cylinder can be deflected by designing the gradient appropriately, and the deflection direction is independent of the frequency. Numerical and experimental results for a cylinder with multiple annular-groove units show that the spatial directivity of the scattering field of the grooved cylinder changes, and the target strength is enhanced at six pre-designed deflection angles. Meanwhile, the deflected acoustic wave has a certain width and the interference among periodic structures of the AG units exists, which makes the spatial directivity of the scattering field of the cylinder equalize and changes the scattering characteristics of the cylinder, thereby providing a theoretical basis for designing three-dimensional underwater objects each with an acoustic stealth.
The whale shark genome reveals patterns of vertebrate gene family evolution
Authors: Tan Milton , Redmond Anthony K , Dooley Helen , Nozu Ryo , Sato Keiichi , Kuraku Shigehiro , Koren Sergey , Phillippy Adam M , Dove Alistair DM , Read Timothy
Published: August 2021

Chondrichthyes (cartilaginous fishes) are fundamental for understanding vertebrate evolution, yet their genomes are understudied. We report long-read sequencing of the whale shark genome to generate the best gapless chondrichthyan genome assembly yet with higher contig contiguity than all other cartilaginous fish genomes, and studied vertebrate genomic evolution of ancestral gene families, immunity, and gigantism. We found a major increase in gene families at the origin of gnathostomes (jawed vertebrates) independent of their genome duplication. We studied vertebrate pathogen recognition receptors (PRRs), which are key in initiating innate immune defense, and found diverse patterns of gene family evolution, demonstrating that adaptive immunity in gnathostomes did not fully displace germline-encoded PRR innovation. We also discovered a new toll-like receptor (TLR29) and three NOD1 copies in the whale shark. We found chondrichthyan and giant vertebrate genomes had decreased substitution rates compared to other vertebrates, but gene family expansion rates varied among vertebrate giants, suggesting substitution and expansion rates of gene families are decoupled in vertebrate genomes. Finally, we found gene families that shifted in expansion rate in vertebrate giants were enriched for human cancer-related genes, consistent with gigantism requiring adaptations to suppress cancer.
TMEM120A contains a specific coenzyme A-binding site and might not mediate poking- or stretch-induced channel activities in cells
Authors: Rong Yao , Jiang Jinghui , Gao Yiwei , Guo Jianli , Song Danfeng , Liu Wenhao , Zhang Mingmin , Zhao Yan , Xiao Bailong , Liu Zhenfeng
Published: August 2021

TMEM120A, a member of the transmembrane protein 120 (TMEM120) family, has a pivotal function in adipocyte differentiation and metabolism, and may also contribute to sensing mechanical pain by functioning as an ion channel named TACAN. Here we report that expression of TMEM120A is not sufficient in mediating poking- or stretch-induced currents in cells and have solved cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of human TMEM120A (HsTMEM120A) in complex with an endogenous metabolic cofactor (coenzyme A, CoASH) and in the apo form. HsTMEM120A forms a symmetrical homodimer with each monomer containing an amino-terminal coiled-coil motif followed by a transmembrane domain with six membrane-spanning helices. Within the transmembrane domain, a CoASH molecule is hosted in a deep cavity and forms specific interactions with nearby amino acid residues. Mutation of a central tryptophan residue involved in binding CoASH dramatically reduced the binding affinity of HsTMEM120A with CoASH. HsTMEM120A exhibits distinct conformations at the states with or without CoASH bound. Our results suggest that TMEM120A may have alternative functional roles potentially involved in CoASH transport, sensing, or metabolism.
Prevalence of abnormal urinary cadmium and risk of albuminuria as a primary bioindicator for kidney problems among a healthy population
Authors: Madrim Mohd Faizal , Ja’afar Mohd Hasni , Hod Rozita
Published: August 2021

Background

The prevalence of chronic kidney disease is increasing globally, ranking 27th as the cause of death in the 1990s, rising to 18th in 2010 and 10th in 2019. Non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and hypertension have been identified as the common contributing factors, while there is also evidence linking environmental pollutants, especially cadmium, to kidney disease. This study aimed at investigating the level of urinary cadmium and its relationship to albuminuria as an early indicator of kidney problems in the Kepong community.

Methods

Respondents were surveyed as part of several health-related programs organized by the Kepong District Health Office involving local communities in and around the district from April 2019 to December 2019. Urinalysis of two urine samples was carried out using a Mission reagent strip and an Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) test to detect the presence and level of urinary cadmium.

Results

A total of 240 respondents were enrolled from April 2019 to December 2019. Urinalysis of two urine samples was carried out using a Mission reagent strip and an Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) test to detect the level of urinary cadmium. The respondents’ average age was 41-year-old (±13.23). Among them, 49.6% were male, 85.0% Malay, 5.8% Chinese and 8.3% Indian. 55.0% had background of tertiary, 39.6% secondary and 5.4% primary level of education. 52.1% were categorized in B40, 34.6% in M40 and 13.3% in T20 based on monthly household income category. 26.7% were hypertensive, 6.7% diabetic, 4.2% had dyslipidemia, 51.7% had urinary cadmium above the alert level, and 27.1% had albuminuria.

Discussion

Risk factors for albuminuria that have been identified are age with adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 3.53 (1.41–8.83; p < 0.05), highest educational level with AOR 2.18 (1.14–4.17; p < 0.05), diabetes with AOR 3.36 (1.07–10.52; p < 0.05), and urinary cadmium with AOR 4.72 (2.33–9.59; p < 0.001), with future screening programs placing greater attention to those at risk and further research is required to determine the cause of exposure to cadmium.
Effect of White and Yellow Background Colour on Short Term Memory: A Cross-over Study
Authors: Acharya Mithun S , Keertish Narayana , Gowda Harsha T , Krithishree SS
Published: August 2021

Introduction: Colour has a potential influence on learning by improving Short Term Memory (STM) in different settings. Background colours of study materials can have an impact on STM in healthy student population. Enhanced memory can improve academic performance in students. In this study background colour between chromatic/yellow and achromatic/white colours were compared. Aim: To compare the effect of white background black text with yellow (preferential colour chosen via voting by students) background black text of study materials on STM. Materials and Methods: A cross-over study design was conducted in a tertiary care hospital of southern India with an interval of two weeks in October 2018. Two groups of 27 students each were assessed for visual STM using word list recall in a cross-over design study with an interval of two weeks duration. Data was collected as number of words and correct number of words recalled, from the word list. The obtained data was then put to statistical analysis using statistical software IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25.0. Results: Out of total sample of 54 students, 13 were males and 41 were females. The males and females were comparable with age with p-value of 0.25 which was not statistically significant. The analysis showed that there was no statistically significant difference in the number of words and number of correct words recalled between white and yellow colour backgrounds in both the sessions. There was an overall improvement in the recall of words in both test materials from first session to second session. Conclusion: Chromatic/yellow background colour was no better than the standard achromatic/white background colour. Improvement in the number of words recalled from first session to second session with both colours appeared to be due to carry over effects.
Synthesis and Characterization of Caprolactam- based Ionic Liquids as Green Solvents
Authors: Naiyl Rania A. , Kengara Fredrick O. , Kiriamiti Kirimi H. , Ragab Yousif A.
Published: August 2021

Aims: To synthesize and characterize six caprolactam-based ionic liquids (CPILs) by combination of caprolactam with different organic and inorganic Brønsted acids that can be utilized for lipid extraction from microalgae.

Study design:  Experimental design include quantitative and qualitative.

Place and duration of study: The study was done at Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, School of Sciences and Aerospace Studies, Moi University (Kenya) between November 2020 and May 2021.

Methodology: Six CPILs were prepared through a  simple neutralization reaction between Caprolactam and Brønsted acids such as Hydrochloric acid (HCl), Methane sulphonic acid (CH3SO3H), Trifluoromethanesulphonic acid (CF3SO3H), Acetic acid (CH3CO2H), Trifluoroacetic acid (CF3CO2H), and Sulfuric acid (H2SO4). The first three acids were used in the synthesis of CPILs for the first time. The chemical structures of the synthesized CPILs were characterized by Fourier transform infrared and Raman spectroscopy. The densities and viscosities were measured at 20 oC using the weight (pycnometer) and capillary viscometer (Oswald) methods, respectively.

Results: All the CPILs were insoluble in hexane and had high miscibility with water and methanol. Fourier transform infrared and Raman spectra of the CPILs were compared with that of free Caprolactam. The characteristic absorption bands of the synthesized compounds showed a big shift in position and/or intensity (compared to caprolactam), indicating the formation of the CPILs. The results showed that both the density and viscosity increased with the molecular weight of the anion - except in Caprolactamium hydrogen sulphate (CPSA)- which could be due to the strong interactions between the cation and anion resulting from the dimerization between hydrogen sulphate anions.  

Conclusion: The hydrophilic nature of the CPILs indicated by high miscibility with polar solvents (water and methanol) indicates that they are suitable for the dissolution of cellulose of microalgae cell wall and thus could result in high lipid extraction efficiency. Further studies should therefore utilize the synthesized CPILs in lipid extraction from microalgae.
Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles using Delonix regia Extract, Characterization and its Application as Adsorbent for Removal of Cu (II) Ions from Aqueous Solution
Authors: Abu-Dief Ahmed M. , Abdel-Rahman Laila H. , Abd– ElSayed M. A. , Zikry Mallak Megalea
Published: August 2021

In this research synthesis of silver nanoparticles by a green method is studied. The high importance of silver nanoparticles using extract of Delonix regia (DREAgNs) is due to their unique properties, such as non-expensive, easily available and have application in water treatment. Synthesized silver nanoparticles AgNPs were characterized using UV-Visible Spectrophotometer to indicate the synthesis of AgNPs by green methods. The maximum absorbance of UV-Vis. analysis at wavelength 464 nm. (FT-IR) spectra to indicate the functional groups of phytochemical compounds at Delonix regia extract (DRE) and the silver nanoparticles (DREAgNPs) and also shows the role of active chemical constituents in stabilization and reduction of (DREAgNPs). Based on the transmission electron microscopy image analyses (TEM) confirmed the formation of spherical DREAgNPs with a particle size range of 20-50 nm with an average particle size of 35 nm. The Cu2+ ion adsorption process was studied by (DREAgNPs). The Cu2+ ions removal efficiency (R. E.) is 88.4 %   at an initial concentration 15 ppm. Removal efficiency (R. E.) decreases as the Cu2+ ion concentration increases.  Furthermore, thermodynamic studies confirmed that the biosorption process was endothermic and the positive value of ΔG° is quite common when an ion-exchange mechanism applies in the biosorption. The Positive value of ΔS◦ suggested an increase in randomness during the biosorption. The Freundlich isotherm has a good fit with the experimental data (R2 =0.99) compared to Langmuir isotherm (R2 = 0.90). This study shows that DREAgNPs are available, low cost, effective and environment friendlly biosorbent for the removal of Cu2+ ions from aqueous environment.
Heavy Metals Analysis and Health Risk Assessment of Three Fish Species, Surface Water and Sediment Samples in Ogbaru Axis of River Niger, Anambra State, Nigeria
Authors: Ojaniyi Opeyemi F. , Okoye Patrice A. C. , Omokpariola Daniel O.
Published: August 2021

Human activities on environmental resources have negatively affected floras and faunas in maintaining fair balance. In this research study, selected heavy metals (Al, As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Pb, Ni, Zn) concentration in three fish species (Clarias gariepinus, Heterotis niloticus and Anguilla labiate), surface water and sediment samples in Ogbaru axis of River Niger, Anambra State, Nigeria. We evaluated the samples using atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS). The result of heavy metals (Cu, Fe, Zn, Ni, Pb, Cd, Al, Cd) analysis in fish samples showed that Cr was detected in Clarias garipinus and Anguilla labiate with a concentration of 0.001mg/kg in both species but was not detected in Heterotis niloticus. Hg and Al were not detected in Anguilla labiate but both metals were detected in the other fish species with a mean concentration of 0.311mg/kg and 0.019mg/kg respectively for Clarias garipinus and 0.001mg/kg and 0.005mg/kg respectively for Heterotis niloticus. In decreasing order, the heavy metal concentration in Clarias garipinus in increasing order of Cu >Fe > Ni > Hg > Pb > Zn > As > Cd > Al > Cr, while Heterotis niloticus followed the order Cu > Zn > Fe > Ni > Pb > Cd > Al > As > Hg > Cr, and  Anguilla labiate followed the pattern of Cu > Fe > Zn > Ni > Pb > Cd > Cr > As > Hg > Al. For surface water, As (0.005mg/l), Cd (0.032 mg/l), Cr (0.099 mg/l), Cu (0.186 mg/l), Fe (2.308 mg/l), Hg (1.501 mg/l) and Pb (0.724 mg/l) showed high concentration for the raining season compared to dry season, as Al (0.246 mg/l), Ni (0.773 mg/l) and Zn (2.903 mg/l) were dominant during dry season, while sediment samples of Cr (0.112 mg/kg), Cu (0.029 mg/kg), Ni (0.945 mg/kg) and Pb (0.039 mg/kg) concentration in raining season were higher than dry season and vice versa for other As, Cd, Fe, Hg, Zn. Correlation matrices showed positive value showing that heavy metals were from a similar source with migration route and vice versa for negative correlation. Health and exposure risk assessment was conducted for carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic exposure in adults and children, where the cumulative cancer risk was within USEPA regulatory standard (1.0E-6 – 1.0E-04) and cumulative hazard index were above 1 for adults (2.02) and children (4.93), implying that children are at risk of having adverse health issues compared to adults. Therefore, there is a need for regulatory advocacy and special care to mitigate anthropogenic release and safeguard the environment.
Derivatizing Reagents for Detection of Organic Compounds By HPLC
Authors: Chhanikar Pooja T. , Gupta Krishna R. , Umekar Milind J.
Published: August 2021

Derivatization is the process of chemically modifying a compound to develope a new compound which has properties that are suitable for analysis using HPLC. Derivatization improves the detectability of a target analyte by reaction with suitable derivatizing agent. Derivatization reactions are simple chemical modification of substance that make it compatible with the selected separation method or transforms substance with a low UV- absorption into highly sensitive product. Derivatization reactions in liquid chromatography modify the solutes adding a chomophore for easy UV detection or a fluorophore for sensitive fluorescent detection. The chemical structure of the compound remains same and just modifies the specific functional group for reacting compounds to derivative of deviating chemical and physical properties in order to make them detectable. Introduction of certain elements or groups through chemical derivatization may enhance the detector’s response helpful for the elucidation of structure of analytes. In conclusion, the present review describe various derivatization reagents for pre-column and post column derivatization process in HPLC by UV-visible and fluorescence detection are summarized along with reactions and some practical aspects. The commonly used derivatizing reagents in HPLC are 1-fluoro-2, 4-dinitrobenzene, ninhydrine, 4-N-N-dimethylaminoazobenzene-4’-sulfonyl chloride, benzoyl chloride, phenyl isocyanate for UV-visible detection and o-phthalaldehyde, fluorescamine, 1-dimethylaminonapthalene-5-sulfonyl chloride (DNS-Cl), 9-fluorenylmethyl chloroformate (Fmoc-Cl), benzofurans for Fluorescence detection.
A Study on Production and Marketing Constraints of French Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Growers in Bishnupur District of Manipur
Authors: Tongbram Kenjit , Singh Y. Chakrabarty , Singh Oinam Krishnadas
Published: August 2021

The study was conducted to analyze the production and marketing constraints of French beans in the Bishnupur district of Manipur. The primary data was collected through a personal interview technique from 100 respondent farmers. Garrett's ranking technique was used for the analysis. Higher cost of labor, pesticide and fertilizer, inadequate irrigation facilities, high seed cost, non-availability of labor, credit, and seed on time, and lack of technical guidance and credit facilities were the main constraint’s found during the production.  In case of marketing constraints, price fluctuation high perishability of the produce,  high transportation cost and lack of transportation and storage facilities, presence of an exploitative middleman,  bandhs and strikes, untimely payment of sale, lack of price and market information, and absence of regulated markets were the major constraints. These constraints are giving huge hindrances to the farmers during the production and marketing and hence proper remedies should be imposed so that the production and marketing of this particular crop can be improved efficiently.
Photon Shielding Characterization of SiO2-PbO-CdO-TiO2 Glasses for Radiotheraphy Shielding Application
Authors: Mustapha Idris M. , James Atimga B. , Bello Sulayman M.
Published: August 2021

In this study, photon attenuation parameters of (30-x) SiO2–15PbO–10CdO-xTiO2, with x = 0, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10% mol, were determined and their application as shielding material were discussed. The WinXCOM software was used to determine the mass attenuation coefficient of the studied glasses for the energy range (0.015-15MeV). The mass attenuation coefficient of the glass samples first decline up to 0.09 MeV and slightly increase abruptly and then declined uniformly for all the glasses to approximately zero after about 10 MeV.   The effective atomic number (Zeff) was also calculated for the glass samples and were observe to raise from 0.015 to 0.02 MeV and then decreased between 0.02-5 MeV. On account of the dominance of the photoelectric effect in the low energy region, there was a sudden increase in Zeff at about 0.08 MeV close to the absorption edge of the Pb (0.088 MeV). The rapid increment was observed at 0.1–1.5 MeV by transcending typical Compton scattering interaction at intermediate energies for Zeff'’s and began to decrease in the same form again. The lower Zeff   values were found in low and high energy region for all SPCT glasses. The calculated mean free path, half value layer and tenth value layer values were observe to decline as the TiO2 doping of the glasses increased which accounts for the  three photon interaction mechanisms effectiveness in the variation of MFP and HVL values with energy. It can be concluded that SPCT glasses may be considered an alternative material for radiation shielding practices.
Analytic Inversion of Closed form Solutions of the Satellite’s J2 Problem
Authors: Bocci Alessio , Scarpello Giovanni Mingari
Published: August 2021

This report provides some closed form solutions -and their inversion- to a satellite’s bounded motion on the equatorial plane of a spheroidal attractor (planet) considering the J2 spherical zonal harmonic. The equatorial track of satellite motion- assuming the co-latitude φ fixed at π/2- is investigated: the relevant time laws and trajectories are evaluated as combinations of elliptic integrals of first, second, third kind and Jacobi elliptic functions. The new feature of this report is: from the inverse t = t(c) we get the period T of some functions c(t) of mechanical interest and then we construct the relevant c(t) expansion in Fourier series, in such a way performing the inversion. Such approach-which led to new formulations for time laws of a J2 problem- is benchmarked by applying it to the basic case of keplerian motion, finding again the classic results through our different analytic path.
Impression of COVID-19 Pandemic on Food Systems, Natural Environmental Resources and Agriculture in India: A Review
Authors: Naresh R. K. , Tyagi Saurabh , Chandra M. Sharath , Shekar B. Chandra , Singh Pradeep Kumar , Baliyan Aryan , Ahlawat Prashant , Shalini Polepaka
Published: August 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic is affecting food and nutrition security through economic and social systems shocks, food system disruptions and gaps in coverage of essential health and nutrition services. Food systems in low- and middle-income groups must adapt and strengthen food and nutrition security in the wake of COVID-19. Smallholder farmers are a crucial part of the food value chain in India, as well as a critical element of the global food system. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought new risks that threaten livelihoods as well as food security. Post the rabi harvest in April, farmers prepare for the next (kharif) season in May. However, the COVID-19 induced disruptions have reduced production capacity for farm inputs and have led to an increase in price, making these resources inaccessible to smallholder and marginal farmers in the country. The corona-virus pandemic has caused a global reduction in economic activity and although this is major cause for concern, the ramping down of human activity appears to have had a positive impact on the environment. The COVID-19 lockdown has several social and economic effects. Additionally, COVID-19 has caused several impacts on global migration. Carbon emissions have dropped, and the COVID-19 lockdown has led to an improvement in air quality and a reduction in water pollution in many cities around the globe. We found that the COVID-19 lockdown in India has primarily impacted farmers’ ability to sell their crops and livestock products and decreased daily wages and dietary diversity. In this context, we aim to synthesize the early evidence of the COVID-19 impact on the Indian agricultural system viz., production, marketing and consumption followed by a set of potential strategies to recover and prosper post-pandemic. Findings indicate that the pandemic has affected production and marketing through labour and logistical constraints, while the negative income shock restricted access to markets and increased prices of food commodities affecting the consumption pattern.
Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management and Plant Growth Regulator on Generation of Recyclable Biomass in Coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) Based Cropping System
Authors: Mishra G. , Karna A. K. , Sahoo S. C. , Pattanayak S. K. , Maheswarappa H. P.
Published: August 2021

An experiment was conducted in the tropical coastal climate of Bhubaneswar by taking five crop combinations. Coconut was grown as main crop along with four component crops; banana, guava, pineapple and colocasia in a system. Different nutrient sources were used and crop specific growth regulators were applied at specific growth stages. The study was conducted to assess the effects of cropping system, nutrient and growth management practices on the generation of recyclable biomass from coconut as well as from the system as a whole. The biomass was calculated on the basis of dry weight of the plant products. The production of total recyclable biomass was found highest (18.5 t/ha) in the cropping system where the plants were managed with 50 % RDF+ 50 % N (organic recycling with vermicompost + in situ green manuring + vermicompost wash) with biofertilizers and plant growth regulators (PGRs). The sole cropping of coconut was found to have lowest production of the same.  The cropping system which is managed with fully organic sources of nutrient without any growth regulator was found least among all other systems except the sole cropping. The incorporation of intercrop has increseaed the amount of plant recyclable biomass to the extent of double than the coconut.
Exploration of Rhizobacteria as Bioagents against Phytophthora Blight and Yield Attributes of Pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan L.): In vitro and In vivo Study
Authors: Bala Saroj , Devi Rajni , Khanna Veena
Published: August 2021

The latest soil management scenario is occupied by destructive chemical fertilizers, which is a serious risk to both human health as well as to the environment. Advantageous microbes present in soil are used as a biofertilizers for a promising role in sustainable agriculture. Pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan L.) is a primitive protein rich leguminous pulse in India. Thirty-five isolates from rhizospheric soil samples were collected from twelve different locations of Punjab (India). Morphological and biochemical characterization for selection of potential plant growth promoting traits with antifungal properties was undertaken. Most of the inoculated seeds with rhizoisolates evolved a significant increase in growth parameters of pigeon pea as compared to uninoculated seeds, both in vitro and in vivo conditions. Plant growth promoting rhizobacterias (PGPRs) are environmentally safe as they lead to increased production and resistance against diseases of crops.
Concentration effect of Sodium Chloride Salt on Benzoic Acid Solubility and Dissociation into Water at 298 K Temperature
Authors: Mishra Shiv Prakash
Published: August 2021

In article, we have been reported the study of a concentration effect of sodium chloride (NaCl) salt on benzoic acid solubility and its dissociation in water at 298 K temperature. At this temperature the benzoic acid solubility into water and their dissociation value for six samples in range of 0.00, 0.05, 0.10, 0.30, 0.40 and 0.50 M. Each of these different ionic strength or concentration of sodium chloride is analyzed by titrimetrically against of 0.05 M sodium hydroxide (NaOH) basic solution. The pH of each solution is measured well by using of calibrated pH-meter. Observation reveals that the value of pH of benzoic acid into water at applying temperature is may inversely related with concentration of NaCl. Graphically, the value of ionic strength (I) of that benzoic acid is plotted versus with dissociation constant (Kc) of acid into water at specific 298 K temperature. The value of benzoic acid dissociation constant for given each six concentration of NaCl is found to be -4.169, -4.045, -3.993, -3.885, -3.848 and -3.788, respectively.
Knowledge of Non-Communicable Diseases and Risk Factors among Final Year Students in a Tertiary Institution
Authors: Ghazali A. K. , Ayeni F. A. , Effiong D. E.
Published: August 2021

Background and Objective: Chronic or non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are rapidly emerging as leading causes of morbidity and premature mortalities globally, with greater effect  being felt in low and middle income nations. As poor health behaviours practised in youthful years have been implicated in developing NCDs in later years in life, It is important to understand the level of awareness of young people regarding NCDs in order to remedy any knowledge gaps and encourage healthy practices among them that will reduce the burden  of these diseases in later life. This  study  seeks  to  describe the knowledge of two groups of final year students of a tertiary institution in Nigeria on the awareness and knowledge of non-communicable diseases and their risk factors.

Methods: The study was designed as a cross-sectional survey at the University of Lagos, Nigeria during the 2017/2018 academic session. A sample size of 422 final year students were used with convenient stratification. Self administered questionnaires was distributed to the class of  students who consented to participating in the study. The questionnaires were used to assess the level of awareness of the students of non communicable diseases and their risk factors. Data obtained from the questionnaires was analyzed using SPSS version 21.

Results: A result of 94.7% was obtained. The results show 89.5% versus 65% of students in health related discipline (college of medicine campus) and those in Akoka campus respectively had good knowledge of NCDs and their risk factors while 10.5% versus 35% had poor knowledge.

Conclusion: Students in the campus of college of medicine had more knowledge of NCDs and their risk factors. Campus location of students had statistically significant relationship with awareness and knowledge on NCDs. (p, <0.05).
Financial Performance Gaps Between Critical Access Hospitals and Other Acute Care Hospitals
Authors: Whaley Christopher , Bartlett Marilyn , Bai Ge
Published: December 2024

This cross-sectional study compares financial measures, including margins and commercial prices, between critical access hospitals and other acute care hospitals and examines how these comparisons vary by system affiliation.
Childhood Exposure to Interparental Physical Violence and Adult Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Cui Cancan , Liu Lin , Li Haibin , Qi Yitian , Song Jiayin , Han Ning , Wang Zhijia , Shang Xinyun , Sheng Chen , Balmer Lois , Wu Zhiyuan
Published: December 2024

Importance

Childhood adverse experiences have been linked with long-term risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), yet the transgenerational associations between interparental behaviors and CVD remain poorly understood.

Objectives

To explore the association between exposure to childhood interparental physical violence and the subsequent risk of CVD and to examine whether the association is modified by adult depressive symptoms.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This population-based cohort study included data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS), an ongoing study recruiting individuals aged 45 years or older, dated between June 1, 2011, and December 31, 2020, with a follow-up duration of 9 years. The data were analyzed from October 1, 2023, to May 10, 2024.

Exposures

An early life exposure questionnaire with information on the frequency of witnessing interparental physical violence was administered. Depressive symptoms were assessed via the validated 10-item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The outcome measures included self-reported physician-diagnosed heart disease (defined as myocardial infarction, angina, coronary heart disease, heart failure, or other heart problems) and stroke. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression models using attained age as the time scale were conducted.

Results

Of 10 424 participants, the mean (SD) age was 58.1 (9.0) years, 5332 (51.2%) were female, and 872 (8.4%) reported exposure to interparental physical violence. Exposure to childhood interparental physical violence was associated with increased risks of adult-onset CVD (hazard ratio [HR], 1.36; 95% CI, 1.20-1.55), heart disease (HR, 1.36; 95% CI, 1.17-1.57), and stroke (HR, 1.28; 95% CI, 1.03-1.61). Participants exposed to childhood interparental physical violence had a greater prevalence of depressive symptoms (2371 of 9335 participants [25.4%]), which mediated 11.0% of the association between childhood interparental physical violence and CVD (HR, 1.26; 95% CI, 1.09-1.45).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study, childhood exposure to interparental physical violence was associated with a higher risk of adult-onset CVD, which was partially mediated by adult depressive symptoms. The findings emphasize the need for comprehensive strategies and policy efforts that address the social determinants of interparental violence and provide household education opportunities.
The proximity interactome of PML isoforms I and II under fatty acid stress
Authors: Thompson Jordan , Boisvert François‐Michel , Salsman Jayme , Lévesque Dominique , Dellaire Graham , Ridgway Neale D.
Published: December 2024

Promyelocytic leukemia (PML) protein forms the scaffold for PML nuclear bodies (PML NB) that reorganize into Lipid‐Associated PML Structures (LAPS) under fatty acid stress. We determined how the fatty acid oleate alters the interactome of PMLI or PMLII by expressing fusions with the ascorbate peroxidase APEX2 in U2OS cells. The resultant interactome included ESCRT and COPII transport protein nodes. Proximity ligation assay (PLA) revealed that COPII proteins SEC23B, SEC24A and USO1 preferentially associated with PML NBs. Nuclear localization of USO1, but not SEC23B and SEC24A, was reduced in PML knockout cells and restored by PMLII expression. Thus, proximity‐labelling methods identified COPII transport protein interactions with PML NBs that are disrupted by fatty acid stress.
Development and application of a novel scintillation gel‐based 3D dosimetry system for radiotherapy
Authors: Li Hua , Jin Haijing , He Liang , Yan Xuewen , Zhang Hui , Li Deyuan
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study introduced a novel 3D dosimetry system for radiotherapy in order to address the limitations of traditional quality assurance methods in precision radiotherapy techniques.

Methods

The research required the use of scintillation material, optical measurements, and a dose reconstruction algorithm. The scintillation material, which mimics human soft tissue characteristics, served as a both physical phantom and a radiation detector. The dose distribution inside the scintillator can be converted to light distributions, which were measured by optical cameras from different angles and manifested as pixel values. The proposed dose reconstruction algorithm, LASSO‐TV, effectively reconstructed the dose distribution from pixel values, overcoming challenges such as limited projection directions and large‐scale matrices.

Results

Various clinical plans were tested and validated, including a modified segment from the SBRT plan and IMRT clinical plan. The dosimetry system can execute full 3D dose determinations as a function of time with a spatial resolution of 1–2 mm, enabling high‐resolution measurements for dynamic dose distribution. Comparative analysis with mainstream device MapCHECK2 confirmed the accuracy of the system, with a relative measurement error of within 5%.

Conclusions

Testing and validation results demonstrated the dosimetry system's promising potential for dynamic treatment quality assurance.
Recent Progress in Particulate Reinforced Copper‐Based Composites: Fabrication, Microstructure, Mechanical, and Tribological Properties—A Review
Authors: Shekhar Chandra , Wani Mohmmad Farooq , Sehgal Rakesh , Saleem Sheikh Shahid , Ziyamukhamedova Umida , Tursunov Nodirjon
Published: December 2024

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in research studies that include the fabrication and characterization of metal matrix composites (MMCs) with unique features. This comprehensive review delves into the evolution and current status of copper MMCs (Cu‐MMCs) across various industrial sectors. Cu‐MMCs have garnered attention due to their remarkable properties, which include excellent thermal and electrical conductivity, corrosion resistance, and wear resistance. This study explores the fabrication processes, and intricate connections between microstructure and properties of Cu‐MMCs, which encompass ceramic and solid lubricants (SLs) reinforcements. The various types of reinforcement and fabrication methods are examined and highlighted advancements in designing compositions and optimizing microstructures during fabrication. Additionally, this study evaluates the friction and wear characteristics of self‐lubricating hybrid composites, providing insights into effective lubrication ranges and overall tribological behavior patterns. This review highlights that Cu‐MMCs demonstrate superior mechanical strength, wear resistance, and self‐lubricating properties due to ceramics and SLs reinforcements. The mechanisms underlying this behavior involve the formation of a protective transfer layer during sliding and effective lubrication provided by SLs, which reduces direct contact and facilitates smoother interactions between the mating surfaces. The review culminates in an outlook on the prospects of Cu‐MMCs, emphasizing the advantages conferred by their utilization.
3D‐Printed Pyramidal Honeycomb Structures Plated with Silver and Infused with Fe3O4–Epoxy Composite for Microwave Absorption Applications
Authors: Rehman Ubaid ur , Bilal Ahmed , Faizan Junaid , Warsi Asif , Ramzan Amna , Shati Khaqan , Nadeem Muhammad
Published: December 2024

As the electronic industry continues to progress, there is a parallel increase in demand of materials for advanced electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding. A hybrid approach is introduced by combining 3D geometrical structure with the integration of radar‐absorbing materials (RAMs) to develop absorptive materials. Present study involves the fabrication of polylactic acid‐based pyramidal honeycomb structures using 3D printing technology, followed by electroless silver plating and infusion with Fe3O4/epoxy composite. These developed structures/materials test comprehensive within frequency range of 8.2–12.4 GHz (X‐band) using free space, and waveguide methods, focusing on both electromagnetic properties of RAM and EMI shielding performance of structures. Experimental results showcase exceptional potential of fabricated structures, demonstrating efficient EMI shielding up‐to −55 dB, equivalent to 99.999% attenuation of EM waves. Particularly noteworthy is the dominant role of absorption as a primary shielding mechanism, as evidenced by more than 99% (−20 dB) absorption across the entire tested frequency spectrum.
Dimensional Crossover and Dually Transitional Magnetoresistance in Vanadium Disulfide
Authors: Li Shuaixing , Liu Luhao , Dong Xiansheng , Xu Ke , Tang Jiachen , Li Yuan , Nie Yuefeng , Hao Yufeng , Shi Yi , Li Songlin
Published: December 2024

The concepts of quantum interference and charge localization have profoundly influenced the understanding of electronic conductivity in materials. While magnetoresistance behavior with monotonic or singly transitional dependence on applied magnetic fields is widely observed in different materials, it remains scarce to find one that features multiple transitions in magnetoresistance. Here, the effects of dimensional crossover on electronic and magneto‐transport behavior in vanadium disulfide (VS2) are reported. Dual transitions in magnetoresistance are observed in 5 nm VS2 nanosheets, resulting from the competition of multiple mechanisms relevant to charge transport as the external magnetic field changes. The nontrivial magneto‐transport phenomenon revealed in the system is attributed to the effect of strong electron correlation and the delicate interplay among spin, orbital, and structural degrees of freedom. These appealing physical properties make 2D VS2 a promising platform for exploring exotic electronic phenomena.
A Library of Seed@High‐Entropy‐Alloy Core–shell Nanocrystals With Controlled Facets for Catalysis
Authors: Hsiao Yueh‐Chun , Wu Cheng‐Yu , Lee Chih‐Heng , Huang Wen‐Yang , Thang Ho Viet , Chi Chong‐Chi , Zeng Wen‐Jing , Gao Jia‐Qi , Lin Chih‐Yi , Lin Jui‐Tai , Gardner Adrian M. , Jang Hansaem , Juang Ruai‐Hung , Liu Yi‐Hong , Mekhemer Islam M. A. , Lu Ming‐Yen , Lu Ying‐Rui , Chou Ho‐Hsiu , Kuo Chun‐Hong , Zhou Shan , Hsu Liang‐Ching , Chen Hsin‐Yi Tiffany , Cowan Alexander J. , Hung Sung‐Fu , Yeh Jien‐Wei , Yang Tung‐Han
Published: December 2024

High‐entropy‐alloy (HEA) nanocrystals hold immense potential for catalysis, offering virtually unlimited alloy combinations through the inclusion of at least five constituent elements in varying ratios. However, general and effective strategies for synthesizing libraries of HEA nanocrystals with controlled surface atomic structures remain scarce. In this study, a transferable strategy for developing a library of facet‐controlled seed@HEA nanocrystals through seed‐mediated growth is presented. The synthesis of seed@HEA core–shell nanocrystals incorporating up to ten different metallic elements, with control over the number of solid‐solution HEA atomic layers is demonstrated. Epitaxial HEA growth on nanocrystal seeds with low‐index and high‐index facets leads to the formation of seed@HEA catalyst library with composition‐ and facet‐dependent catalytic activities in both electrocatalysis and photocatalysis. In situ synchrotron X‐ray absorption spectroscopy and density‐functional theory calculations are employed to identify surface active sites of the HEA, rationalizing the high level of catalytic activities achieved. This work enables facet engineering in the multi‐elemental chemical space and unveils the critical needs for their future development toward catalysis.
Ultra‐Broadband Perfect Absorbers Based on Biomimetic Metamaterials with Dual Coupling Gradient Resonators
Authors: Ren Zhiyu , Yang Zaiqing , Mu Wangzhong , Liu Tie , Liu Xiaoming , Wang Qiang
Published: December 2024

Ultra‐broadband metamaterial absorbers can achieve near‐perfect absorption of omnidirectional electromagnetic waves, crucial for light utilization and manipulation. Traditional ultra‐broadband metamaterials rely on the superposition of different resonator units either in the plane or in perpendicular directions to broaden absorption peaks. However, this approach is subject to quantity restrictions and complicates the fabrication process. This study introduces a novel concept for broadband absorption metamaterial design—Metal–Insulator–Metal metamaterials with gradient resonators (GR‐MIMs) to surpass limitations in quantity and fabrication. The GR‐MIMs absorber features gradient resonant cavities in both nanoscale and microscale dimensions, each with continuous resonance points. By converting “resonance points” into “resonance bands” and perfectly coupling the two gradient resonators, the GR‐MIMs absorber with a thickness of only 200 nm demonstrates 93% ultra‐broadband high absorption across the UV, visible, near‐infrared, and mid‐infrared spectra (0.2–5 µm). Moreover, the solar spectrum absorption rate of the GR‐MIMs absorber can reach 94.5%, offering broad prospects for applications in solar energy utilization. The design of gradient resonators provides a new approach for the development of ultra‐broadband metamaterials and photothermal conversion metamaterials.
Biodistance Analysis via Dental Phenotypic Diversity in Early Collective Burials at Cerro Juan Díaz, Panamá (30–650 CE) [Análisis de Biodistancia Mediante la Diversidad Fenotípica Dental en los Entierros Colectivos Tempranos del Cerro Juan Díaz, Panamá (30–650 EC)]
Authors: Smith‐Guzmán Nicole E. , Smid Núñez Jeny , Cybulski Jonathan D. , Sánchez Herrera Luis A.
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Burial space reuse and prolonged interaction with the dead were common practices in the Isthmo‐Colombian Area, dating back to at least the Early Ceramic Period in the Greater Coclé region. However, biological and social relationships of individuals interred in collective burial contexts remain unclear. Here, we explore intra‐cemetery biological variation through a biological distance analysis of individuals interred in large mortuary features from the first mortuary horizon at the site of Cerro Juan Díaz in Panamá.

Materials and Methods

Individuals recovered from Features 2, 16, and 94 from Operation 3 at Cerro Juan Díaz were assessed for dental metric and nonmetric traits. Biological distances were calculated through Gower coefficients and subsequently assessed visually with PCoA plots. Differences in phenotypic variability within burial feature (n = 26), age (postpubescent individuals aged 15+ years vs. prepubescent individuals; n = 27), and sex (n = 14) groupings were evaluated statistically via permutational multivariate analysis of variance (PERMANOVA) and PERMDISP tests.

Results

The estimated distances for each individual showed broad similarities between the three burial features. Significant differences in biological distance were found only when comparing by age. Gower coefficients for prepubescent individuals differed from those of postpubescent individuals in terms of both group centroid location and data point dispersion around centroids.

Discussion

Our results are largely consistent with previous notions of Cerro Juan Díaz's function as a community burial ground. Prepubescent individuals may have been brought to the site for burial from nearby villages, perhaps following specific mortuary traditions governed by age group.